Retirement Planning
De ned Bene ts Super
Daniel Crump Financial Planning can help you:
• prepare for retirement
• manage your money so that you don’t run out
• legally manage your tax and maximise your age pension entitlements.
NO HIDDEN AGENDAS. We are not owned by any financial institutions or super funds who might want to bias our advice.
Appointments are now available in Lithgow and Bathurst. To book please call 0418 148 622 or visit danielcrumpfp.com.au for more information.
D Crump & Co Pty Ltd t/as Daniel Crump Financial Planning (ABN 83 642 812 904) is an authorised representative of Catalpa Pty Ltd AFSL 530665 ABN 57 648 557 340
Lions Club of Mount Panorama is seeking additional stallholders for future market days.
First Saturday of each month at Lions Berry Park, Bathurst Come and be part of the markets.
Further Details
Email: macquarielions@gmail.com facebook.com/riversidemarketsbathurst
The NSW Liberals and Nationals are calling all residents across regional communities to sign the petition to save the $250 Regional Seniors Travel Card.
Shadow Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said the Coalition launched the petition to stop Labor from cutting the program in the upcoming budget.
“The Regional Seniors Travel Card has become a local lifeline right across the bush, helping our seniors maintain their independence by allowing them to visit their loved ones or run important errands,” Mr Farraway said.
“We have already had a strong response but there is only a month left to get behind the petition, so I would encourage as many people as possible to sign it to convince the Minns Government to keep funding this important cost-of-living
measure.”
Since 2020 more than one million cards have been issued, easing expenses for seniors who need to travel longer distances for their everyday tasks.
“Whether it is a grandparent, parent, sibling or friend, we all know someone in our community who uses and relies on the Regional Seniors Travel Card and we all have an important reason to fight for it,” Mr Farraway said.
“It would be devastating to see another great regional initiative sacrificed to prioritise another city project, so I would ask everyone to share this petition as far and wide as you can to show Labor just how important it is.”
To sign the petition, go to www.savethetravelcard.com.au
As many of you know, long before I owned a newspaper I ran a successful digital marketing and web development business.
I have not been doing much of that work lately, aside from in our own businesses, however, I have decided to assist a great organisation - Realise Business - deliver their DIgital Solutions program, offering mentoring support and learning pathways to small businesses.
It is a constantly changing landscape in the world of digital and many small businesses feel like they are being left behind. The aim of this program is to help give business owners the confidence and capacity to succeed in their businesses using the very latest digital tools to assist them.
If you would like more information about this program visit https://digitalsolutions.business
Central West Media has consolidated its two previous publications into the new Central West Village Voice, Covering the entire Lithgow and Bathurst region, and distributed fortnightly on Thursdays.
If you are looking for a way to grow your business, speak to one of our friendly team and they will design a marketing plan that suits your budget and gets results.
Central West Village Voice
Publisher Rich Evans on behalf of Central West Media Pty Ltd
Emails: editor@villagevoice.net.au sales@villagevoice.net.au
Office Details
Call our office on (02) 6355 4258 Office: 30 Williwa Street, Portland NSW 2847
Postal Address: PO Box 227, Portland NSW 2847 Visit our website at www.villagevoice.net.au
The Village Voice accepts no responsibility for any advertisement, submitted article or feedback published. Any advertisement, submitted article or feedback is published at the risk of the contributor, who accepts liability for any intended publication.
By contributing to this publication, you agree to indemnify the publisher and warrant that the material is to the best of your knowledge accurate and is neither deceptive or misleading, in breach of copyright, or in breach of any other laws and regulations.
In operation since 2001, Secret Creek Sanctuary is shaping up to be Lithgow’s next popular tourist attraction. The $1.3 million development also includes the addition of walking tracks around the sanctuary and into the neighbouring nature reserves.
The Wildlife Hospital & Rehabilitation Centre will serve the Blue Mountains and Central West region, which are surrounded by six NSW National Parks providing habitat to a variety of endangered and rare species requiring support in times of natural disasters.
The need for a wildlife hospital and rehabilitation centre has been exacerbated following the devastating 2019/20 bushfires in which many animals were killed or displaced and are in need of care to replenish numbers.
The Secret Creek Sanctuary are collaborating with Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital (BBWH) and their staff on the design function and fit-out requirements. BBWH will be the operational managers that will collaborate and partner with Australian Ecosystem Foundation and Secret Creek Sanctuary to carry out rescue and rehabilitation work.
The Cultural & Visitor Centre will become the new welcoming entry into the Secret Creek Sanctuary thanks to former NSW Government Bushfire Local Economic Recovery (BLER) funding.
A cultural arts centre will be located on the second floor of the visitor centre in collaboration with local Indigenous group One Mob to serve multiple uses including a gathering space for Aboriginal culture education groups, learning space for wildlife and ecosystems and a health and wellbeing community centre for the local community.
The new walking trails will be partly wheel-chair accessible and self-guided. It will start at the newly built Cultural and
Visitors Centre and it will take visitors through the Sanctuary to view the various endangered species in their enclosures and natural habitats. Interpretive signs will be installed along the track to educate visitors about the site.
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole met with the Secret Creek’s team to check on progress.
“The transformation of this wildlife retreat and tourist attraction is really coming together,” Mr Toole said.
“The visitor centre and walking trails will make Secret Creek Sanctuary more accessible and educational with the visitor centre also acting as a wildlife and environmental education classroom plus an events space for the local community.”
Mr Toole also said the wildlife rescue and rehabilitation hospital located at the sanctuary will provide a venue for the rescue, rehabilitation and release of native animals, with the 1000-acre Newnes Plateau serving as a release site.
“The new wildlife hospital will serve surrounding regions of Central West and Blue Mountains who are all lacking this type of care for our native animals,” he said.
“Funding for the projects at the Secret Creek Sanctuary are part of the recovery journey of the Lithgow region following the bushfires and helps us to continue repairing the social and
economic fabric of our local community,” he said.
Secret Creek Sanctuary owner Trevor Evans gave a construction update.
“Frames are currently being erected on site for the wildlife hospital and the slab for the visitor centre is expected to be poured this week,” Mr Evans said.
“We have completed much of the walking trails installing steps, ramps and non-slip pads and will be working on handrails next.
“Our breeding programs of pygmy possums and other native animals have been very successful so there will be lots of animals for visitors to meet and learn about throughout the sanctuary.
“We are looking forward to welcoming back visitors to an improved and expanded sanctuary.”
Woolworths is supporting Share the Dignity throughout August as the organisation launches its biannual Dignity Drive to help eradicate period poverty in Lithgow.
Five cents from the sale of every period care product at Lithgow Woolworths supermarkets in August will be donated to help Share the Dignity provide free period care products, as well as the maintenance of 100+ Dignity Vending Machines, which dispense free period packs discretely and free of charge to those in need.
Throughout the month, pink collection boxes will also be available in Woolworths supermarkets across Lithgow for the donation of period care products. All period products in their original packaging including pads, tampons, menstrual cups, period undies, reusable pads and incontinence aids can be placed in the collection boxes.
Donations will be distributed by volunteers to Share the Dignity’s 3000+ charity partners including homeless and domestic violence shelters, along with other organisations helping vulnerable community members.
Woolworths Store Manager, Lithgow, Hugh Stewartsaid: “We’re proud to continue our partnership with Share the Dignity and support the meaningful change they are creating.
“As the August Dignity Drive begins, we’re also excited to launch a range of offers on personal care items for our customers, and we hope the support of this campaign can help Share the Dignity continue to reach new goals in its efforts to provide menstrual equity for all.
“We would also like to thank all of our customers for their donations, as their generous contribution has helped lessen the impact of challenging times over the years.”
Woolworths will also be offering a range of personal care discounts and deals to customers , including 30% off disposable period pads, tampons and liners from 02/08/23 to 08/08/23. For the first time this year, customers shopping online can also get involved, with $2 and $5 donations. U by Kotex will also be donating one product for every $2 donated online, or three products for every $5 donated online.
Share the Dignity is aiming to collect at least 200,000 period products during its latest Dignity drive, with increasingly high demand from their charity partners.
Founder and Managing Director Rochelle Courtenay said: “We often come across heartbreaking stories, such as a recent incident of a father living in a car with his daughter. His daughter
had experienced her first period and unfortunately found himself unable to source the support she needed."
“You never know what someone is going through and, at the very least, let’s ensure they can manage their period with dignity,” she said.
Since 2019, Woolworths has donated more than $2.5 million to Share the Dignity. These donations have helped fund 107 of Share the Dignity’s Dignity Vending Machines, which dispense free packs of pads and tampons and are located in community centres, homeless hubs, charities, Aboriginal Medical Services, hospitals and other areas where there is a need across Australia.
The iconic Zig Zag Railway in the NSW town of Lithgow has reached a new milestone, having carried more than 9,000 passengers since its successful reopening in May.
“Our tickets are selling out a month in advance with the next available trips not until the end of August, or early September,” said Zig Zag Railway Acting CEO Daniel Zolfel.
“It’s pretty amazing to see the public sharing our love for Zig Zag. We even have people who haven’t booked tickets coming up to Clarence for a visit just to see our steam locomotives from the platform,” he added.
The railway operates three trips on Saturdays and Sundays every second weekend after a more than 10-year hiatus where it underwent extensive restoration works and secured vital accreditation.
“ The main sentiment we’re hearing from passengers is that Zig Zag is better than they remembered it and how their kids haven’t stopped talking about it,” said Mr Zolfel.
“It’s heartwarming as a team to be able to provide our patrons with this experience after so many years of hard work.”
The railway first opened in the 1860s as the first rail link between Sydney and Western NSW, but closed in 1910 following a deviation of the main line to by-pass the inefficient ‘zig zag’. It was resurrected in the 1970s by volunteers who banded together to create the not-for-profit Zig Zag Railway Co-Op before closing in 2012.
It takes about 90 minutes to traverse the seven-and-a-half kilometre track, traveling through tunnels and over the viaducts with two stops along the way looking out over the stunning Lithgow Valley.
Passengers get to see first-hand how locomotives used to operate during Australia’s steam train era, as a volunteer fireman shovels coal into the train’s red-hot firebox.
“People are captivated by the sights, sounds and smells of steam. It’s quite often you witness not only kids enjoying it but grown ups letting their inner child out as well.”
The Zig Zag Railway is staffed by dozens of active volunteers
who have all received extensive professional training as part of the railway’s completely revamped safety management systeman industry best-practice model that’s seen Zig Zag return as one of the safest railways of its type in the world.
Zig Zag is always ready to welcome new volunteers who’ll soon become valued members of the team and help keep the history of the railway alive.
No prior skills or qualifications are required with all training provided. From roles including train driver, guard, station master or in the workshop, there is something for everyone. There are
also non-operational roles requiring no formal training.
More information about becoming a volunteer can be found https://zigzagrailway.au/join-us/#application
For information and tickets, visit https://zigzagrailway.au/
Photo credit: Salty Dingo
EnergyAustralia today announced that the visibility of the proposed Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro project will be significantly reduced following a decision to move the upper reservoir location to behind the southern ridge of Mt Walker and to locate the project pumphouse underground.
The design change has been made in response to community feedback and the initial assessment suggests the upper reservoir, to be built on land already owned by EnergyAustralia, will now not be seen from the majority of Lithgow.
The assessment also indicates the new location will also be either not visible or significantly less visible from Bowenfels, South Bowenfels and Hillcrest Estate.
As part of the design change, the pumphouse for the project will also be located underground further reducing visual impacts and ensuring very minimal noise associated with running the pumped hydro facility.
EnergyAustralia’s Lake Lyell Project Director, Mike de Vink, said the design change followed community consultation over recent months.
“We’ve been out in the community, listening to people’s views
on the project. Locals told us they were concerned about how the upper reservoir would look. We passed the challenge to our engineers, and we’ve come up with a solution which substantially reduces the project’s visual impact.
“It is expected that the new location means many of the private homes that would have seen the original upper reservoir design will now not see the upper reservoir at all.
“We acknowledge that some properties on Sir Thomas Mitchell Drive and on the Rydal side of Lake Lyell will continue to see the upper reservoir and we will keep working with those landowners.
“The change demonstrates we are serious about listening to the community and taking action to address concerns. We’re also working hard to reduce environmental and cultural heritage impacts, where possible.
“An additional benefit of this new location is that the reservoir wall will now be built from natural rock rather than construction techniques using concrete. This is a big plus in reducing the carbon emissions associated with the project given concrete’s large carbon footprint.
“The new design will require some further geotechnical investigations to be completed. We will keep the community updated about this,” said Mike.
The new position for the upper reservoir behind the southern ridge on Mt Walker is now the preferred option for the project and is detailed as part of EnergyAustralia’s recently released project Scoping Report and will be the location assessed as part of the project planning and impact assessment.
The Scoping Report for the project is available on the Lake Lyell Project’s website at www. lakeyellpumpedhydro.com.au
The Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro project is in the feasibility stage with a decision on proceeding likely at the end of 2024. Construction would take four years. The 335MW project would provide energy for 150,000 homes for up to eight hours. Projects such as this are needed to ensure the reliability of energy from renewable sources such as solar and wind.
The announcement by the incoming Labor NSW Government that the delay (likely withdrawal) of $2bn funding for a road link over the Blue Mountains came as a huge disappointment to the people of Western NSW.
The 300,000 people living west of the mountains have been looking forward to some form of improved transport to Sydney for decades. For the manufacturers, producers, freight companies and passengers this especially means an improved rail connection.
The latest figures available show that the rail line to Western NSW (through Lithgow, Bathurst, Orange, Parkes, and Dubbo) carries over 120 million tonnes of freight per annum worth more than $20 billion. This rail line is vital for the economic growth of the State, providing much needed Agricultural, Mining and Mineral products for export through ports in Newcastle, Sydney, and Wollongong.
The Western Rail Line supports thousands of people employed in the above industries and hundreds more in the transport industry in Western New South Wales. However, to ask for a one-off multi-billion upgrade of the western rail line would be as fruitless as asking for a one-off multi-billion spend on a road upgrade. The NSW Government simply does not have this amount of money to spend on hugely expensive road or rail improvements over the mountains.
But there is another way. If rail improvements were phased in over the next decade, then freight and passenger services to the west could be improved significantly in stages.
First the track needs to be repaired and made more resilient against landslips, erosion, and undermining. Then, more sidings and loops should be installed to ease congestion from passing trains. After that, the rail itself should be straightened between Lithgow to Orange through Bathurst to speed up the movement of freight and passenger services.
Finally, the Bathurst Bullet (or its equivalent in the soon-to-be released Momentum trains) should have more passenger services to and from Sydney each day, going through Orange to terminate in Parkes or Dubbo.
A dream? Yes, but instead of floundering on a oneoff project cost that is prohibitively high (like the road project), rail improvements could be achieved over time and in stages.
BUSS is a local support network run through the Uniting Church in Bathurst, which runs programs to assist people who are homeless, poor, socially isolated, and those with addictions in our local community. The programs aim to improve the lives of participants and assist and support them to make better and more responsible life choices.
Regular activities and services are provided, so anyone feeling they may be in a position to become involved as a volunteer would be most welcome. Anyone feeling this service may be of help to them is also encouraged to join the program.
Retired chaplain Julie Fry is a regular volunteer at BUSS, and is pictured receiving a cheque from Mount Panorama Lions Club President Sally Coopes and Lion Jon Maclean.
This week we are celebrating 175 years of public education in NSW focusing on learnings from our past and embracing the future of education.
In 175 years, the public school system in NSW has grown from one to more than 2,000 schools offering students both primary and secondary education. This access to school has changed our society for the better allowing everyone the right to an education and has given children the resources they need to grow, thrive and become productive adults.
None of this would be possible without the dedication and care from our teachers. I want to thank every past, present and studying to be teachers that have powered the public school system for almost two centuries. They have developed and shaped multiple generations and this impact could never be underestimated.
Looking forward, I want to see our education system prepare young people to be agile thinkers and lifelong learners from the first days in early childhood education to post-school pathways.
Please join me in thanking teachers, principals, support staff and those associated with the education system this Education Week.
GRANTS 2023/2024
Bathurst Regional Council in partnership with the Bathurst Regional Access Committee provides grants to assist businesses and non-profit organisations improve access and inclusion to their place of business/organisation.
For further details of this fund, please refer to Council’s website: www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au or contact Council’s Community Services Department on 6333 6523.
Applications close 4pm Friday 11 August 2023.
Working for Council is a stimulating and rewarding career option, providing the opportunity to be part of a team contributing to shaping the success and future of our Region. Please visit www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au/careers for a full list of current vacancies.
NOTICE OF PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION NO 2023/203,
Lot: 1 DP: 38799 334 PEEL STREET BATHURST.
DEMOLITION OF EXISTING DWELLING AND CONSTRUCTION OF A SINGLE STOREY DWELLING WITH SEPARATE SHED.
Exhibition Period: 24 July 2023 to 7 August 2023. DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION NO 2023/215, Lot: 112 DP: 1227890 3249 O’CONNELL ROAD BREWONGLE.
ALTERATIONS AND ADDITIONS TO EXISTING DISTILLERY.
Exhibition Period: 24 July 2023 to 7 August 2023.
Plans (excluding residential floor plans) and documentation submitted with this application can be viewed on Council’s online DA tracking system (http://masterview.bathurst.nsw.gov. au) or at the Civic Centre during business hours.
Any submissions may be included without alteration in public reports, on Council’s website and to the applicant for comment.
2023/2024 SPORTING ASSOCIATION GRANTS
Each year Bathurst Regional Council provides a grant scheme to assist local sporting organisations to undertake specific works or purchase equipment for the advancement of sport in the Bathurst Region. Sporting organisations that are affiliated with the Bathurst District Sport and Recreation Council are eligible to apply for these grants.
A total of $20,000 has been allocated to this scheme. Further information and application forms are available from Council’s Recreation Section on (02) 6333 6285 or Council’s website www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au.
Applications close on Tuesday 26 September 2023.
CCTV FUNDING PROGRAM
Bathurst Regional Council is providing funding to assist local businesses improve security and community safety. For further information, please contact Council’s Cultural & Community Services Department on 6333 6523 or Council’s Website www.bathurst.nsw. gov.au.
Applications close 4pm Friday 18 August 2023.
Council has prepared an amendment to Bathurst Regional Development Control Plan 2014 (DCP) in relation to Aboriginal Heritage. The proposed amendments to the DCP will assist in better protecting Aboriginal Heritage, will provide a link to the Bathurst Regional Aboriginal Heritage Study that was completed in 2016, and will provide greater clarity for developers and landholders in relation to Aboriginal Heritage. The draft DCP is on exhibition from Monday 24 July 2023 to Monday 21 August 2023 and is available for download from Council’s website. https://yoursay.bathurst.nsw.gov.au/DCPAmendments
www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au
In accordance with Section 24 of the Impounding Act of 1993 the following impounded vehicles and fuel/diesel cart are for sale by tender:
LOT 1. Unregistered 1998 Yellow Toyota Celica – no registration plates and unable to locate a VIN number.
LOT 2. Unregistered 2003 Silver or Chrome Ford Falcon sedan –VIN: 6FPAAAJGSW3Y82672.
LOT 3. Unregistered 2003 Blue Holden Commodore sedan – VIN: 6G1YK52A33L993329.
LOT 4. Unregistered 2006 White Proton GEN.2 sedan VIN: PL1CM6LNR6G074520.
LOT 5. Unregistered 1998 Blue Mitsubishi sedan VIN: 6MMTF1D42WT043566.
LOT 6. Unregistered Fuel/diesel cart – no other details available.
These vehicles are being offered on an “as is” where is “basis” and the winning tender must pay and remove the vehicle within 7 days of being notified by Council if they were the successful Tender. The above vehicles may be withdrawn from sale at any time at Council’s discretion. The vehicles are unregistered, and keys are not included. It is not known if they are in running order. Inspections are available by appointment only by contacting Council on 6333 6211. There will be no inspections on weekends or public holidays.
Only written Tenders will be accepted. Tenders should clearly indicate the vehicle and the amount, and be addressed to the General Manager, Bathurst Regional Council, PMB 17, Bathurst NSW 2795. Tenders to be received by Council no later than 10am Tuesday 8 August 2023.
TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE
Clubhouse Bathurst is part of the international Clubhouse Network and will be funded by Regional NSW, while the not-forprofit organisation, Social Futures, will manage The Clubhouse. (Social Futures also runs Clubhouses in Lismore and Ballina.)
The first Clubhouse was established in 1993 by two education researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT is a top global university), and one of those still sits on the Network’s board of directors.
There are now more than 125 clubhouses in 20 countries, which introduce learners to creative technology.
Clubhouse Bathurst will provide young people (aged 12 to 18 years) with a safe and supported space to explore technologies like video and sound editing, movie making, and animation creation along with a youth worker. The Clubhouse is equipped with sound and video editing, games, robotics, and also traditional crafts.
The Clubhouse Network’s Executive Director, Lisa Cook, this week travelled to Western Australia from her base in Boston.
“I am inspired by your partnership with The Clubhouse Network in support of young people in New South Wales,” Ms Cook said.
“Together we support the next generation to develop technical and interpersonal skills, set long-term goals and become their best selves.
“Most importantly, we are preparing youth to become future leaders in the digital workforce in their communities.”
Ms Cook is accompanied by colleague, Matt Burke, The Clubhouse Network’s Community Manager, who covers the US,
Australia, and Asia.
“In my time with The Clubhouse Network, I’ve seen so many incredible things happen for the young people of our global community,” Mr Burke said.
“Sometimes, it’s as small as a tiny spark of an idea or an affirmation that pushes a member forward just enough to try something new. Sometimes the convergence of mentorship, community support, and technological resources can set a course that leads that member to a life of success based on a pathway of their own design.
“With the right team in place, the possibilities are endless, and from having witnessed the incredible work they’ve done in their existing Clubhouse spaces, I’m so excited for the ways the Social Futures team will impact the future as they expand their reach and impact to more youth in New South Wales.”
Social Futures CEO Tony Davies said it was an honour to host the visitors from Boston and he loved The Clubhouse
motto, 'Where Technology Meets Imagination’.
“This encapsulates the program’s goal of teaching young people to use the latest tech tools to create and express themselves,” Mr Davies said.
“Think of all the flow-on benefits for young people learning to do things like code games, edit movies and animate cartoons – they are being challenged to think, develop new concepts, find the technologies to realise new ideas, build their multimedia skills, and ultimately believe in themselves, grow in confidence, and realise that they have so much to offer their community and the world.
“It is so exciting to see the Clubhouse model arrive in Bathurst, and Social Futures is looking forward to strengthening our connections to this beautiful city.”
28-29 OCTOBER 2023
The 2023 Bathurst Gardeners’ Club Spring Spectacular will be held on the last weekend of October, Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th October 2023. The Club has secured ten (10) beautiful gardens to open to the public including Milford:
Trees planted in the lawn give the house a feeling of enclosure and include Chanticleer and Manchurian pears, Chinese pistachio, Tulip, Silver Birch and many Maples to add seasonal colours of red, purple and bronze.
Hardy shrubs that tolerate cold winters and dry summers provide permanent structure in the garden beds, plus flowers and perennials.
The gardens range from suburban gardens to large country gardens and lots of gardens in between. There will be something for everyone who enjoys gardening or even meandering through beautiful gardens.
The members of the Bathurst Gardeners’ Club have been busy propagating plants for their ever-popular Monster Plant Stall. The Monster Plant stall will take place in the park adjacent to the Bathurst Visitor Information Centre on Saturday 28th October only between 8.30am until stock runs out.
Music will be provided by local musicians and students of the Mitchell Conservatorium in some gardens. Refreshments will
also be available in some gardens. Some gardens will have a stall.
Tickets will be $25.00 per person and can be purchased online from mid-September. More information regarding the purchase of tickets will be available closer to the event.
Please check our website https://bathurstgardenclub.org. au/bathurst-spring-spectacular/ or follow Bathurst Spring Spectacular on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ BathurstSpringSpectacular to keep up to date
All money raised from the Spring Spectacular will be donated to the following charities:
• Mitchell Conservatorium of Music Scholarships
• 2BS Community Charities
• Defence Community Dogs
• Headspace
• Bathurst Community Transport
The Bathurst Gardeners’ Club thanks the sponsors who support this very worthwhile community event, a full list of sponsors is available at https://bathurstgardenclub.org.au/bathurst-spring-
Tech-education experts from Boston, Massachusetts are visiting Bathurst in western NSW to support the creation of a ‘Clubhouse’ – a free after-school technologylearning hub for young people.Photo Credit: Upstairs Co-Working
Members of the Bathurst community are invited to join a Council delegation to England in May 2024, as part of a friendship city visit to Cirencester.
Mayor Robert Taylor said Bathurst and Cirencester formalised a friendship agreement in December 2020 with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) the two cities.
“The friendship agreement has grown out of ongoing relationship since 2015 when the Earl and Countess Bathurst visited for the Bathurst 200 celebrations. At that time discussions were held to develop a sister city relationship between the two communities,” he said.
“A planned visit to Cirencester in May 2020 was postponed because of COVID, and Council formally signed the MOU with Cirencester via a virtual video call in December.
“We are now looking to re-schedule the visit for May 2024, and the visit is an opportunity for Council and community members to continue to build on the cultural exchange between our two cities.
“The itinerary for the delegation is still being finalised, but Council is keen to hear from any community members who are interested in joining the delegation, at their own cost, to get in touch.”
Interested community members should lodge their expression of interest for the visit council@ bathurst.nsw.gov.au
The Friendship Agreement explores opportunities for the collaborative development of research, the organisation of joint academic, cultural and artistic activities, the exchange of research teaching personnel and students, the exchange of publications and other material of common interest, the exchange of business and commercial interest and such other collaborative activities.
Bathurst Library is thrilled to announce an inspiring event featuring renowned author Gabbie Stroud discussing her latest book, The Things That Matter Most on Tuesday 8 August, commencing at 6pm.
Experience is the best teacher and Gabbie Stroud brings her years of experience as a teacher to a moving and compelling novel about teachers and their students in her fictional debut.
Set in the imagined school St Margaret’s Primary, the book offers a gut-wrenching and important commentary on the role of teachers in children’s lives and the expectations placed on them. At St Margaret’s the staff are hanging by a thread, there’s serious litigation pending, and a powerful parent has a lot to say about everything.
Gabbie Stroud has garnered widespread acclaim for her insights into the world of education. Her memoir Teacher was shortlisted for Biography Book of the Year at the 2018 ABIA Awards and contributed to the national dialogue on education. In 2016, her critical commentary of Australia's education system
was published in Griffith Review's Edition 51 Fixing the System, which went on to be shortlisted for a Walkley Award. In 2020 her book, Dear Parents: Letters From the TeacherYour Children, Their Education, and How You Can Help, offered a passionate call to arms for all parents.
"We are delighted to host Gabbie Stroud at Bathurst Library," said Patou Clerc, Manager Library Services at Bathurst Library. "Her expertise in education and her thoughtful exploration of life's most profound aspects will undoubtedly resonate with our community, offering an enriching experience to all who attend."
The talk will be held at Bathurst Library, 70-78 Keppel Street and starts at 6pm. Bookings for the event are essential and can be made by phoning the library on 6333 6281. Copies of the book will be available for purchase on the night from BooksPlus Bathurst.
For more information about this event and any other events coming up at the Bathurst Library, visit www. bathurst.nsw.gov.au/library.
Charles Sturt’s Three Rivers Department of Rural Health awards $45,000 in scholarships to 36 continuing and commencing students
Students from Gilgandra, Nyngan, Orange, Cootamundra and West Wyalong are among the recipients
Scholarships are awarded to students studying a range of health professions, including allied health, nursing, paramedicine, occupational therapy and dentistry
Rural and regional students have been awarded a share of $45,000 in scholarships through Charles Sturt University’s Three Rivers Department of Rural Health (DRH) and the Country Education Foundation of Australia Grant Scheme.
The University supports the scheme through Three Rivers DRH, which is funded by the Australian Government’s Rural Health Multidisciplinary Training (RHMT) program, aiming to improve the recruitment and retention of nursing, midwifery, allied health and dentistry professionals in rural and remote Australia.
Grants are aimed at supporting and retaining health students who originate from a country town within the Three Rivers DRH footprint, which covers 30 per cent of NSW. Students from Gilgandra, Nyngan, Orange, Cootamundra, West Wyalong, Temora, Harden, Grenfell and Coleambally received scholarships.
The scholarships were awarded by eligible volunteer-run foundations of the Country Education Foundation (CEF) of Australia to support 36 students studying health profession courses, including allied health, nursing, paramedicine, occupational therapy and dentistry.
Three Rivers DRH Director Ms Christine Howard said Three Rivers DRH continues to
see the positive impact of the grants.
“We have committed to continuing the scheme in support of the student’s journey, as well as the wellbeing of the communities they come from,” Ms Howard said.
“Students from many towns and various health courses have been supported.
“As we move into the fifth year of the grants scheme, we are delighted to continue supporting first-year and returning students to complete their courses.”
Ms Howard said the cost of attending university is greater for regional students and that these scholarships assist with travel and accommodation expenses.
Bachelor of Nursing student Ms Lily Meldrum from Nyngan said the scholarship provided the financial support she needed to attend workplace learning and immerse herself in opportunities without the stress of placement-related costs.
“In addition, collaboration between the Country Education Foundation and Charles Sturt will support me in completing my Bachelor of Nursing and aid me in reaching my goal of promoting health within rural communities and positively impact the health inequalities between Indigenous and NonIndigenous peoples,” she said.
CEF CEO Ms Juliet Peterson said CEF is delighted to continue its partnership with Three Rivers DRH to provide support to rural and regional youth.
“Many of the wonderful students supported choose to study in these areas as they have experienced firsthand the impact of shortages in our regions, and we are proud to help them work towards achieving their goals,” she said.
A fun afternoon with activities is being provided by Creative Community Concepts, Bathurst Library and headspace Bathurst. Enjoy ice cream and a free barbecue at the Kelso Community Hub on Thursday, 10 August from 3:30pm – 5.00pm
Transport will be available and can be booked by calling 6333 6523 before Monday 7 August.
The activity is suitable for Indigenous and Non-Indigenous young people aged 8 -16 years. Marang Connections is funded under the joint Australian Government - NSW Government Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements 2018.
The 23/24 Youth Council has met for the first time and a new Youth Mayor and Deputy Mayor have been elected.
Mayor Robert Taylor congratulated Jasmyn Nankervis elected as Youth Mayor and Kirilee Scott as Youth Deputy Mayor.
“The Youth Council plays an important role in our community and within Council and I congratulate all those who were selected to serve this current term.
“I look forward to seeing what they achieve and attending the events and activities during this term.”
Members of the Youth Council are:
Jessie Nunan
Kirilee Scott
Isabella Morris
Jasmyn Nankervis
Jasmin Houston
Meagan Justin
Scarlett Hall
Henry Burnett
Harry Tayler
Aston Hornery
Aarnav Shah
Soren O'Shannessy
Nicholas Bellamy
Lachlan Wright
Sabina Short
Kyle Destura
Sporting organisations affiliated with the Bathurst District Sport and Recreation Council are eligible to apply for grants to assist local sporting organisations undertake specific works or purchase equipment for the advancement of sport in the Bathurst Region. Information and application forms are available from Council’s Recreation Section on 6333 6285 or on Council’s website.
Applications close 26 September.
Council is providing funding to assist local businesses improve security and community safety. Businesses may apply for funding up to a maximum of $500 on a dollar-for-dollar basis, under the criteria of the Bathurst CCTV funding program.
For more information visit Council’s website or phone 6333 6523. Applications close 5pm Friday 18 August.
Council in partnership with the Bathurst Regional Access Committee provides grants to assist businesses and non-profit organisations improve access and inclusion to their place of business/organisation.
Businesses and non-profit organisations within the Bathurst region may apply for funding of 50 per cent of project costs, up to a maximum grant amount of $5,000. Projects must be completed within the 2023/2024 financial year to be eligible to apply for a grant. Retrospective funding can be considered providing the project is completed in the current financial year.
For more information, visit Council’s website or phone 6333 6523. Applications close 4pm on Friday 11 August.
West of Central - 1 July to 27 August
This exhibition showcases the work of 16 regionally based artists who choose to make work on Wiradjuri Country in the Central Tablelands of NSW.
Date: Thursday 17 August
Immerse yourself in a 2-hour Introduction to Life Drawing workshop with local artist Tim Miller at Bathurst Regional Art Gallery. $30 BRAGS members, $35 non-members, all materials supplied, and no experience required. RSVP essential via the website https://bathurstart.com.au/exhibitions-events/life-drawingworkshop/
Central West Girl Guides and TGW Scouts Region Commemoration and Presentation Service.
Date: 19th August 2023
Start: 10.30am
Estimated Finish: 12.00pm (depending on number of awards presented). Service held by: Very Rev Fr James Hudson Dean All Saints Cathedral and Rev Fr Tony Hennessy Goal Chaplin.
Location: All Saints Cathedral Bathurst – 12 Church Street Bathurst.
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Awards Presented: If you would like any awards presented, please advise name, award and who will undertake the presentation by the 1st of August.
We are inviting all Sections from Groups, Rover Units, Fellowship, Girl Guides Units, Friends, and Families of TGW Scouts and Central West Girl Guides.
We will have Smoking Ceremony done by Elders of the Wiradjuri first Nations People, which will be done outside of the Cathedral. This will be done first at 10.30am and after will be unveiling and dedicating of a bronze plaque acknowledging the original founders of 3rd Bathurst (All Saints Cathedral) Scout Group and Rover Scout Unit who were both veterans of WW1 & WW2 at the memorial wall side of the Cathedral.
We have a number of special quests invited in so far and these include. including the Wiradjuri Elders, Mayor of Bathurst, NSW MP Bathurst, Federal MP Calare, NSW Branch Commissioner for Rovers, and NSW Branch Commissioner for Heritage.
The awards will be done at the end of Service.
If you have any questions, please e-mail Paul. Hennessy @scouts.nsw.com.au or ring Paul Hennessy on 0432 563 579.
√ $1.1 million for the upgrade of Glen Davis Road
√ $625,554 for playground equipment in Bathurst
√ $954,250 for construction of Bathurst Rail Museum
√ $650,000 for replacing footpaths in Bathurst
√ $300,000 for upgrades to the Civic Ballroom at Lithgow for use as an evacuation centre
√ $205,000 for upgrades to Machattie Park
Iwelcome the announcement that the federal government will launch a parliamentary inquiry into the response of insurers to the 2022 storm and flood events including those that occurred in Central Western NSW.
Since this disaster hit our region, we have heard many stories of heartache and heartbreak from local residents and business people who have had their homes and livelihoods destroyed.
Communities like Eugowra, Molong, Canowindra, Cudal and Wellington were devastated by November’s storm and flood events.
The rebuilding and recovery process has been made much harder, and the tragedy much worse, by the cold-hearted and shocking response of insurers to policyholders.
The anger in our communities is white hot, and I don’t think we are alone, with other regions across Australia left reeling from the callous conduct of insurance companies. From long delays in claims processing, to widespread knockbacks. It’s taken a massive toll across our region.
The reality is that there is a huge power imbalance between policy holders and insurance companies.
At the end of the day, if a policy holder wants to fight a knockback from an insurer, they’re going to need to fork out big dollars for an expert hydrology report and also a solicitor. If you’ve lost everything or your business is in ruins, there is just no prospect of fighting back.
The stories of insurers trying to do the right thing are sadly few and far between.
Australians expect insurers to be assessing claims in a generous and kind-
hearted way, nothing less.
Insurance companies don’t just answer to shareholders, but also to the nation. They don’t just have insurance contracts with our residents, they also operate with a social licence.
We need to get to the bottom of what’s happened here and make sure the pain that insurance companies have inflicted on our communities is not repeated in others.
I’m hoping that this inquiry can shine a spotlight on the experience of our local residents and that they will get a chance to tell their stories on a national stage so that other communities won’t have to go through what we have endured.
The stories that emerged from recent public meetings I’ve held on insurance claims have been deeply troubling.
I am grateful to the Prime Minister and also to the Minister for Financial Services and Assistant Treasurer for answering our communities’ calls for an inquiry.
When I asked the Prime Minister in Question Time in May whether he would support an inquiry, he indicated that he would consider it and he has done what he said he would do.
I’m hoping that this inquiry will be a watershed moment in the way that insurers deal with disaster-hit policy holders.
Change needs to come from this immense tragedy and devastation.
I think it’s important that the Minister not only travelled to our area to hear first-hand what our residents have been through but that he also came and delivered a tangible result. It’s certainly more than just a photo opportunity.
The new Bathurst Animal Rehoming Centre (BARC) is coming up a treat!
The fantastic new complex will soon begin welcoming in fourlegged friends before they find their forever homes.
Recently, I got the chance to take a tour of the new centre on Hampden Park Road which will hold up to 48 dogs and 20 cats.
The top notch animal enclosures even feature under-floor heating to ensure the critters are healthy and happy during their stay!
The large, light-filled center also has a purpose-built adoption pavilion to help visitors find a four-legged friend which will best fit their family.
There is also space to facilitate a companion animal education program and there will be opportunities for animal-loving locals to volunteer at the center!
It was great that the project received a $925,000 grant from the former Federal Government to upgrade the old pound to this state-of-the-art animal shelter.
Congratulations Bathurst Regional Council on a job well done!
The 2023-24 Volunteer Grants are now open, with grants between $1,000 and $5,000 being offered to community organisations to help support the efforts of our hardworking volunteers. Grants must go towards items that are of direct benefit to the work of volunteers. To submit your expression of interest (EOI), please contact my office for an EOI form at andrew. gee.mp@aph.gov.au.
Great to see Lithgow Information and Neighbourhood Centre receive a $4,570 Volunteer Grant!
It was fantastic to attend the Lions Club of Bathurst changeover dinner recently!
Our local service clubs do wonderful work in our community, and the Lions Club of Bathurst is no exception.
Over the past 12 months, they have served 92,000 people, engaged in more than 70 service activities, put in over 3000 volunteer hours, and raised $67,000!
That is an amazing effort, and I’d like to congratulate Lion Ian Warren who is going round for another consecutive term as President, and all of the Club members on their hard work
over the past year.
There were a number of important awards presented on the night including Lion John Hay being awarded a Melvin Jones Fellowship, and also Barbara Andrews being made a Life Member.
It was a terrific night, and it highlighted the importance of our local volunteers.
I was particularly grateful for the funding that the Club donated to Ukrainian Emergency Relief ($2,000).
Thank you to all of our Service Club members and thank you Bathurst Lions for a great night!
BUDGETS, CHANGE ANZAC DAY, TAKE LAND, BAN FISHING, STOP NUCLEAR-POWERED SUBMARINE CONTRACTS OR CREATE A SEPARATE STATE?
It’s
hard to believe, but Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are not recognised in our nation’s founding document. This wrong must be made right. The Voice provides that recognition in a meaningful way.
The aim of the Voice is to get better outcomes for Indigenous Australians by ensuring they have a say on issues that affect them. For example in housing, education, health and jobs.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have lower life expectancy, higher suicide rates, higher infant mortality rates, and worse educational outcomes than non-Indigenous Australians. The gap isn’t closing, and despite well-intentioned governments, the current approach isn’t working. We need to change it up. The Voice is about listening and getting positive, tangible outcomes in communities around Australia.
We do, but like governments, individual parliamentarians come and go, and they represent parties. The Voice would be independent and be above partisan party politics. Having it in the Constitution provides independence, consistency, and continuity.
Yes. A host of constitutional law experts and organisations have given the Voice the tick of approval as being legally and constitutionally sound, including:
• Former High Court Chief Justice Robert French
• Former High Court Justice Kenneth Hayne
• Leading constitutional law barrister Bret Walker SC
• Leading constitutional law professors
• The Solicitor General of Australia
• New South Wales Bar Association
• The Law Society of New South Wales
• The Law Council of Australia
• The University of Sydney Law School
• Flinders University Law school
• The University of New South Wales
• Adelaide Law School
• University of Queensland constitutional lawyers
• Gilbert & Tobin Lawyers
No. Myth busted. There is no veto. This means it would have no power to overrule Parliament, and any advice it gives would be non-binding.
WILL THE VOICE BE A THIRD CHAMBER OF PARLIAMENT?
No. Myth Busted. The Voice can’t and won’t introduce bills or run programs. It will be subject to
Members of the Voice will be chosen by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and serve for a fixed period. It will include Indigenous Australians from every state and territory, the Torres Strait Islands and representatives from the regions and remote communities. It will be subject to the rules made for it by Parliament.
Because our Constitution provides the broad framework for governing our country and we leave it to our elected representatives via the Parliament to pass legislation about details such as rules.
For example, in 1901 the Constitution gave the Australian Government the power to set up a High Court and other courts. It wasn’t until 1903 that Parliament established the High Court through legislation. Then in 1975 the Parliament set up the Family
Court through legislation.
Another example is that in 1901 the Constitution gave the Commonwealth the power over currency but left it to the Parliament to work out things like what the notes are and what they look like. In 1910 a law about notes was passed. Banknotes finally got issued in 1913.
The Voice will be set up by the Parliament and subject to its rules.
DOES THE VOICE GIVE ANYONE SPECIAL RIGHTS?
No. Myth busted. The Voice does not give any group any special rights. It’s an advisory body that doesn’t give any rights to anyone. This has been confirmed by eminent constitutional lawyers and former High Court judges.
ISN’T THE NATIONAL INDIGENOUS AUSTRALIANS AGENCY (NIAA) THE SAME AS THE VOICE?
No. Not at all. Myth busted.
Unlike the proposed Voice, the NIAA is not independent of government, it’s part of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet. Only 22% of its staff are Indigenous. It can be abolished at the stroke of a pen. It can’t give advice to the Parliament.
Oh and the NIAA doesn’t have a $30 billion budget (another myth busted there on the way through).
WOULD THE VOICE STOP ME DIGGING A HOLE IN MY GARDEN OR ON MY FARM?
No. Another whacky myth busted. It’s an advisory body folks! The Voice would not be able to force the Parliament to do anything it doesn’t want to do. The vegie garden is quite safe.
I’M SAYING YES!
Want to add your face to our Voice feature? Email andrew.gee.mp@ aph.gov.au
I’m Deputy Mayor of Bathurst Ben Fry, and I’m supporting an Indigenous Voice to Parliament.
Generator Property Management (GPM) is the current land owner and manager of the Ash Storage Dams and stockpiles in Kerosene Vale Ash Repository (KVAR) area at Lidsdale - an area of approximately 528ha, formerly part of the now-closed Wallerawang Power Station. The KVAR site was declared as significantly contaminated land on 22 August 2022, under the Contaminated Land Management Act 1997. This enables the EPA to regulate the management and rehabilitation works to be completed by GPM, and to continue regulating the land into the future.
One of the largest cohorts to complete the TAFE NSW Lithgow Pre-Apprenticeship Program has just celebrated their graduation, with 26 local apprentices now ready to officially commence their apprenticeships in Lithgow’s high-demand industries, with EnergyAustralia, Centennial Coal and Thales all taking part in the program.
The Lithgow Regional Economic Development Strategy 2018-2022 indicates the mining, energy and manufacturing industries are key to the local economy, responsible for employing over 1,300 workers. It also identifies opportunities for these industries to leverage existing facilities to support the growth of the renewable energy sector and the mining of nonmetallic minerals, ensuring local skills remain in high demand well into the future.
Sarah Battersby, the only female in this year’s pre-apprenticeship cohort, said she is excited to officially start her apprenticeship with EnergyAustralia.
“This program was a really good introduction to my new job, we learnt a lot of new things not just about our trade but about the other trades we’ll be working alongside as well,” Ms Battersby said.
“I’m a fitter apprentice and other than a little bit of welding at home with dad, this is all new to me.
“Over the last six months we’ve been very hands on with welding and electrical, and I’ve gotten a lot better at the practical skills so I’m not starting from scratch when I get to work.
“The teachers have been a great help and while I’m keen to get back to work, I’m also looking forward to coming back to TAFE as part of my apprenticeship.”
Electrician and Technician Team Leader at the Mt Piper Power Station, Ray Tang, said EnergyAustralia has been involved in this TAFE NSW program for over ten years.
“We had seven apprentices participate in the program this year, which has given them a really good head start before they begin working with us,” Mr Tang said.
“This program has a lot of merit and value for our industry and our apprentices, not only does it introduce them to the real world, but it also gives them experience in several different trade areas, so they start off with a good understanding of how we all work together.
“The safety component of the program aligns with our company’s focus on work, health, and safety, so they start their apprenticeship with that knowledge already ingrained in them.”
Lithgow Mayor, Maree Statham, attended the graduation ceremony on 28 June 2023, and praised the collective efforts of TAFE NSW and the local industries involved.
“The number of people in attendance at the graduation gave me goosebumps, it was a fantastic turn out,” Ms Statham said.
“TAFE NSW’s pre-apprenticeship program is such a positive and important program for our region, I look forward to seeing more of our employers getting involved and giving our young people a valuable head start to their careers.”
GPM invites interested locals to be part of a Community Consultation Group (CCG) which will provide a forum for discussion between GPM and stakeholder groups, local council and the local communities of Kerosene Vale, Lidsdale and Wallerawang. It is envisaged that discussions will revolve around the ongoing works within Kerosene Vale, how they affect the local community and the development of plans to remediate the site, including futureproofing for the generations to come. It is expected the CCG will continue throughout the completion of the works.
To apply for a position on the CCG, please go to https://gpmco.com.au/kerosene-vale-ccg to view and complete the application and read the CCG guidelines. Closing date for applications is Friday, 25th August 2023
RSVP: phone (02) 8843 2500 or email enquiries@catholiccarewsbm.org.au
Nanna’s Touch Community Connections Lithgow along with the support of EnergyAustralia are bringing to life a social community kitchen, that will serve as a destination for community connection and food security.
Located on Albert Street at the “Old School”, it will run once a week, on a Wednesday from 5.30pm to 7.00pm. The site will include a fitted kitchen, food hall and be run by local volunteers, who will be serving hot meals and take-home food hampers called ‘Jacks Snack Pack’, filled with non-perishable food items and fresh produce.
Nanna’s Touch President Sue Murdoch said, “we started as a Disability Support Group in 2013 and has evolved over the years after identifying to expand similar support to the whole community.
Lithgow City Council is facilitating two Telecommunication Roadshow events for the Lithgow local government area in cooperation with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and with Telstra, Optus, NBN Co and Regional Tech Hub. These free public information events will allow residents and business owners to hear directly from each telco provider about digital blackspot areas and their plans for network and service improvements and upgrades across the LGA. Following the presentations, community members will be offered the opportunity to ask general questions to the telco panel, as well as meet with each representative on a one-on-one basis to discuss more immediate and personal telephone, internet, technology issues and possible solutions.
Both Telco Roadshow events will be held on Tuesday 8 August at the following locations:
10.30am to 12.30pm: WSU Transformation Hub, 154 Mort Street, Lithgow
5.30pm to 7.30pm: Capertee Community Hall, Castlereagh Hwy, Capertee
All individuals and businesses are invited to attend.
To assist with seating and catering requirements please register your interest in attending one of the Telco Roadshow events with Irina Acosta from NEMA at Irina.Acosta@ nema.gov.au/ Ph: 0455526841, or with Lithgow City Council’s Community Resilience Officer, Greg Thurling at gregory.thurling@lithgow.nsw.gov.au / Ph: 63549959
EnergyAustralia’s Head of Mt Piper Steve Marshall said, “we never take the role the Lithgow community plays in the success of our operations for granted. Most of our workforce at Mt Piper are Lithgow locals so to play a small part in setting up this soup kitchen for success was important to us.”
Nanna’s Touch Soup Kitchen opens its doors on this week. A small donation on arrival is encouraged but it will continue to source community support through food donations, food rescue collaboration and grants to ensure it is a sustainable operation in Lithgow for the years to come.
“We want this soup kitchen to be a central spot where the those that need it within the Lithgow community can share a meal with their community, but also know that it is a place where they find community information, referral pathways, and emergency relief vouchers.
Lithgow Library is pleased to be hosting another book launch at 4.00pm on Wednesday 23 August 2023.
Barbara Lepani’s latest Book “The Regenesis Journey” takes the reader on a journey to rethink the Western creation story of Genesis and how that applies to the principles of caring for Country, multiculturalism and transitioning to a circular wellbeing economy.
Want to know more about “The Regenesis Journey”? Then why not pop into the library and hear Barbara’s talk and the fascinating group of artists who have a new relationship with the earth and all its lifeforms that align with Australia’s ancient cultural ethos of caring for country.
Barbara was born in Lithgow and while she now resides in the Blue Mountains, she is still very active in the Lithgow area. Barbara not only writes but is involved in the Blue Mountains Creative Arts Network where she is the President and is also the co-ordinator of The Regenesis Collective (regensis.org.au).
Books will be available for purchase including some of Barbara’s other titles. This event is free, but bookings are preferred by emailing RSVPs to virginian.francken@gmail.com.
Light refreshments will be served. For more information contact the Lithgow Library on 02 6352 9100.
• 8 August - Taco Tuesday at The 7 Valleys 129 Main Street
• 12 August - Murder Mystery Night at The 7 Valleys 129 Main Street
• 15 August - Taco Tuesday at the 7 Valleys at The 7 Valleys 129 Main Street
• 17 August - Exhibition: Woman-My Own Point of View at Gang Gang Gallery
• 19 August - Life Drawing with Anthony Cahill at Gang Gang Gallery
• 20 August - Phoenix Blue Mountains Choir performs at Hoskins Memorial Uniting Church at Hoskins Memorial Uniting Church
What’s on at the Libraries
Baby Bounce:
Every Monday from 10:30am - 11:30am at Lithgow Library
Learning Centre
Story Time:
Wallerawang Library every Tuesday at 10:30am - 11:30am
Portland Library every Tuesday at 10:30am - 11:30am
Lithgow Library Learning Centre every Wednesday at 10:30am - 11:30am
Learn a new skill:
Sewing Group at Wallerawang Library on every Wednesday from 10:00am - 12:00pm
Knitting Group at the Lithgow Library Learning Centre on every Thursday from 10:00am to 12:00pm
Book Launch
Barbara Lepani Book Launch Wednesday 23 August at Lithgow Library Learning Centre from 4:00pm
Do you know that there are a variety of options available to pay your land rates?
To support individuals and families, Lithgow Council offers a number of payment options.
Residents have the option to arrange a payment plan that suits their financial situation. This may involve weekly, fortnightly, monthly or quarterly instalments, providing greater flexibility, and avoiding larger lump sum payments.
The Council has also partnered with Lifeline Financial Counsellors to provide further assistance. This service assists people to discuss their specific circumstances and explore tailored solutions.
The Council is committed to working with those in need to find suitable solutions to help alleviate cost of living strains. Lifeline regularly visit Lithgow and residents can make appointments to discuss individual circumstances and the help that is available. Do you receive a pension? If you receive a Centrelink Concession you may be eligible to receive a reduction in your rates. If you are not sure, please call the Council staff.
You can also:
• Sign up to receive your Rates and Water notices electronically. Visit https://lithgow.enotices.com.au/
• Pay your rates and water accounts by regular direct debit payments by either bank account or credit card. Visit https:// council.lithgow.com/direct-debits/ to register.
• Pay your Rates and Water Accounts by one off online payments. Visit https://council.lithgow.com/online-payments/ have your account ready as you will need your reference number.
• Contact Council on 6354 9999. We can take your payment over the phone or discuss different options with you.
Contact Council’s Revenue team on 6354 9999 or council@lithgow.nsw.gov.au if you have any enquiries.
The Household Chemical Clean out is scheduled for Sunday 3rd September 2023.
Residents are encouraged to take advantage of this oncea-year service to present their household chemicals. Council is providing a free chemical cleanout with the service open to the public between 9am – 12pm at Lithgow Solid Waste Facility, 68 Geordie Street, Lithgow.
The following items will be accepted:
• From your home: Solvents & household cleaners, floor care products, ammonia based cleaners, fluorescent globes & tubes.
• From your car: Batteries, motor oils & fluids.
• From the garage: Paint, pesticides, herbicides, poisons, gas bottles, fire extinguishers, pool chemicals, acids & alkalis.
For more information visit www.cleanout.com.au
The household chemical cleanout is held in conjunction with the NSW EPA and NetWaste.
A Green Waste collection will be provided on 25th September 2023.
Residents are reminded that a SERVICE BY REQUEST will apply.
Residents can register via Council’s website www.council. lithgow.com or alternatively phone Council before 12.00pm FRIDAY 22nd September 2023.
Then on Sunday night of the collection week, please place your green waste at the kerbside where you normally leave your garbage bin. Residents should ensure the following:
• Garden Prunings – should be no longer than 2 metres, not thicker than 200mm and tied in bundles.
• Lawn Clippings and leaves shall be placed in a durable container, cardboard box or hessian/plastic bag.
• Each bundle or box shall be less than 16 kilograms in weight.
• A maximum quantity of 1 cubic metre (about 4 wheelie bins) will apply.
*Please note grass clippings will no longer be accepted as bagged grass clippings reduce options for beneficial reuse of green waste.
Council’s Customer Service Department on (02) 6354 9999, or can be downloaded from Council’s website www.council.lithgow.com/sports-star-awards/
www.council.lithgow.com
At the meeting, Council listened to both community representatives and EnergyAustralia on the proposal. The matters raised by the community substantially related to the concept for a pumped hydro energy storage (PHES) system at Lake Lyell. No development application has yet been submitted for this concept.
The Council approved the Modification of Development Consent application DA070/22 to allow EnergyAustralia to undertake further geotechnical investigations (boreholing) on its land over 3-6 months for the purpose of assessing the feasibility of the site for a potential PHES. The proposed investigation is in a location adjacent to the foreshore of Lake Lyell and below Mount Walker in the locality of Bowenfels.
The Lithgow Area Women’s Shed Inc. has lodged a development application for the construction of a new multi-function/ community facility. The project is funded from a grant of $2,460,625 from the Federal Bushfire Recovery Grants program.
The proposal is for a multi-function building to comprise a workshop with ancillary tool rooms, meeting room/hall, two small commercial offices, 2 x kitchens, kids’ room, and amenities to be located at the Tony Luchetti Sports Centre, Geordie Street, Lithgow.
The location of the development is to the south of the main oval, between the main showground grandstand to the west, the skate park to the southeast and the ballroom to the east.
The council approved an exemption of the Developer Contribution fee of $24,606.25 noting that the building will become a council asset once completed, to be used by the Women’s Shed and other members of the community.
The Development Application will be brought back to Council for determination and if required an Extra Ordinary Meeting of Council will be called to expedite the decision.
The owners of the former Wallerawang power station site, including the lake Wallace foreshores and surrounds, have lodged a Scoping Report as a first step toward a
Rezoning Application of their 620 hectare site. Following preliminary consultation with a range of government agencies, the Council noted the Assessment Report which identified the key issues for any Rezoning Application.
Greenspot have indicated that they propose a mixture of land uses comprising new residential, tourism, environmental management and employment precincts. The proposed concept plan could accommodate 1,500 - 4,500 jobs and between 600 -800 dwellings. The following development concepts are being considered by Greenspot:
• Old Power Station Precinct: education and training facilities, pilot plants, warehousing, manufacturing, resource recovery, battery storage, data centres, hydrogen production, hydrogen refueling, ammonia production, road to rail intermodal, aeronautics/heliport, and minerals processing.
• Industrial and Commercial Precinct: education and training facilities, pilot plants, construction materials, resource recovery, manufacturing, battery storage, data centres, hydrogen production, ammonia production, hydrogen refueling, heavy vehicle service station/mechanical repairs, road to rail intermodal, aeronautics/ heliport, minerals processing, food processing, water treatment facilities, warehousing, plant and equipment hire, depots, commercial premises, call centres, aquaculture and protected cropping.
• Tourism and Recreation Precinct: optimisation and enhancement of existing recreational uses (sailing club, rowing/dragon boating club, baseball, caravaning and camping, giant tree arboretum, children’s playground, off leash dog park, public amenities block and Bicentennial National Trail), publicly accessible open space, sporting facilities, markets, waterpark/ adventure playground, water recreation structures, restaurants, cafes, short term accommodation, community facilities, function centre, seniors housing, information and education facilities, cultural centre.
• Residential Precinct: a mix of housing typologies including large lots, medium lots, small lots, and residential flat
buildings. It is proposed that this precinct will also include some local services as an “extension” of the Wallerawang Main Street.
• Old School Precinct: the adaptive reuse of existing heritage listed school building, education and training facilities, pilot plants, shared working spaces, light industrial complexes, depots, warehousing, manufacturing, water treatment facilities, community facilities and temporary workers accommodation.
• Environmental Management: active and passive recreation, bike and pedestrian pathways, roads, environmental management, bush regeneration, education facilities and a cultural centre.
• Lake Wallace: recreational use, floating solar, riparian, and aquatic regeneration, floating gardens/biofiltration, reservoir to enable water storage, access, and reticulation for various on-site uses and potentially for broader regional benefit.
Endorsement of the Seven Valleys Beatlesfest over the October long weekend
The Council approved a request from Living Eyes Productions for seed funding of $16,510 to assist in hosting the inaugural Seven Valleys Beatlesfest. The funding is provided from Council’s Events Attraction Program.
In its first year, the event organisers anticipate it will attract 2,000 visitors to the area. When endorsing this proposal Councillor Mahony stated that “this is exactly what our community needs, a series of annual festivals” and Councillor Goodwin felt that “this will put Lithgow on the map and activate the Main Streets of Lithgow, Wallerawang and Portland”.
The event will be held across a wide variety of locations throughout Lithgow, Wallerawang and Portland. Over 14 privately owned venues have signed up to host a variety of different music events and activities. A wide variety of artists have also agreed to participate, paying tribute to the Beatles over the course of the weekend.
Council’s contribution will enable:
• Buses between Lithgow, Portland and Wallerawang (including stopping at tourist destinations),
• Payment of Street performers (buskers) along Main Street,
• Performances in Queen Elizabeth Park,
• Performances, tourism information and markets in Cook Street Plaza, and
• Event Marketing and signage.
Felix Mendelssohn’s Blockbuster!
Allegri Singers, together with choirs in Orange and Willoughby are well into their preparations to present Mendelssohn’s huge and powerful work to audiences in Bathurst and Orange.
The Orange Symphony Orchestra will accompany Allegri Singers, joined by the Orange Regional Conservatorium Symphonic Choir, the Orange Regional Conservatorium Chamber Choir and the Willoughby Singers, all under the baton of Phil Rees, OAM.
Vocal soloists from the region will join the choirs in evoking the drama of this epic work, based on stories from the life of the prophet Elijah, as told in the Old Testament.
Devotees of Mendelssohn’s music will know what a treat is in store for them. For those unfamiliar with his work, more details will be publicised over the coming weeks and months.
Meanwhile, be sure to save the dates: Saturday, November 18. All Saints’ Cathedral, Bathurst.
Sunday, November 19. Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Orange.
The Lithgow Show Society Annual General Meeting was held on 4 July 2023 and President Mr David Peters was re-elected unopposed. This follows a successful year for the Society with a well-attended Swap Meet and a great turn out by the local community at the Annual Show.
Fiona Archer won the local the 2023 Lithgow Show Society Young Woman Competition and went on to represent Lithgow at the Ag Shows NSW Zone 5 Final. Fiona has been a great rural ambassador for Lithgow in this very competitive competition.
Lithgow has been selected to host the 2024 Zone Final which includes districts from the Mid- North Coast, throughout the Hunter Valley and into the Central West. This will be a great opportunity to showcase Lithgow and its magnificent attractions. Lithgow Workies Club are working with the Lithgow Show Society to ensure this is a ‘Night of Nights’. All of Lithgow is invited to come along to support our local ambassador. The Dinner will be held on the 3 February 2024 at Lithgow Workies Club anyone interested in sponsoring the night or attending should contact the Lithgow Show Society Young Woman Coordinator Lauren Elkins on 0400243778 or the Lithgow Show Secretary Vanetta Renshaw on 0400119219.
Membership of the Lithgow Show Society is only $5 and entitles active members to free entry to the Lithgow Show to be held on Friday 15th – Saturday 16th of March 2024. If you would like to join the Society please email the Show Secretary info@lithgowshow.org.au.
Applications for the Hoskins Lithgow Scholarship for 2024 are closing soon.
The scholarship is available:
•to fund tertiary studies (course fees and related costs) up to a maximum of $30,000 paid over the duration of the course.
•for a resident of the Lithgow Local Government Area who is an Australian citizen under the age of 26 on 1 July 2023. It is not restricted to Year 12 students.
Timetable for the 2024 Scholarship:
Applications open: Monday 10 July 2023
Applications close: Friday 11 August 2023
You can download an Application Form from the Hoskins Lithgow Scholarship website at www.hoskinslithgowsc holarship.org.au
Email applications to:
The Scholarship Secretary, Rachel Walters, on help@hoskinslithgowscholarship.org.au
Applications must be sent by email no later than 5pm on Friday 11 August.
You can obtain more information from your School, or by contacting the Scholarship Secretary, Rachel Walters: Mobile: 0424 404 772
Email: help@hoskinslithgowscholarship.org.au
Interviews for short-listed applicants will take place in Lithgow on September 14, 2023.
After a highly successful local art competition, several finalists from the Lithgow LGA were among the top prize winners in the 2023 Waste 2 Art regional competition opening ceremony at the Platform Arts Hub in Blayney. The regional exhibition opened on Saturday 22 July with a special awards ceremony at the unique Platform Arts Hub on Blayney Railway Station. 4 awards and $1,500 in prize money were presented to Lithgow artists by the Mayor of Blayney, Scott Ferguson.
Kathy Avgoulas from Hermitage Flat won first prize and $500 in the Creative Repair, Restore and Refurbish category for her beautiful textile entry titled ‘Grandmas legacy of doilies’.
Lithgow Artist Prue Mogg won the Curator’s award and $500 for her gorgeous textiles and mixed media Open 3D sculptural collection titled Australian Fauna -Wrapped’.
Students from Zig Zag Public school received the Colin Jones Memorial Award and $500 for their fantastic mixed media sculpture titled ‘Gugaa (Goanna).
Lithgow artist Jessical Anne Leffley also received a Highly Commended award in the Open 2D category for her stunning mixed-media wall hanging titled ‘The Forgotten Song’.
The regional exhibition is open to the public until 20 August from 10.00am – 4.00pm each Wednesday to Friday and 10.00am to 2.00pm weekends at the Platform Arts Hub, Blayney Railway Station, Cnr Adelaide St and Railway Lane, Blayney NSW 2799.
The village of Newbridge is returning in 2023 with an even bigger Spring into Art at Newbridge festival on October 20-22.
The second Back Creek Art Show, with prizemoney totalling over $4000, includes all last year’s popular classes plus some exciting new ones. The original classes, including Eutick Memorial Still Life Art , Open Art, Open Photography, Back Creek Newbridge Award (in any medium) and People’s Choice are joined by - Photography Still Life, Blayney Shire Council $1000 Acquisitive Award, Photography Creative
The photography creative class allows extended digital manipulation of an original image and recognises that creativity in photography is constantly evolving.
Entries for all sections open on August 1 and close on October 8. Entry forms can be found at www.newbridgensw.com.au. The Art Show opening night is Friday, October 20.
Alongside the art show will be an artisan and makers market at the Showground on both Saturday October 21 and Sunday October 22. Expressions of interest from stallholders are welcome, also via www.newbridgensw.com.au
Live music by DC3 and the High Flyers will perform in one of the gardens on Saturday afternoon.
We all know the village Nearby, but Mrs Heritage and I went on a jaunt recently, as we do, to Everglades House at Leura, just to see how art deco should be done, and well done to the National Trust.
BTW, when I told my mate Mick, the sage of Wiseman’s Creek, he said “the origin of the word “jaunt” probably is Irish. Up on The Plateau we have a strong Irish heritage, and there is even a locality called Jaunter there. The Irish had what they called a “Jaunting Cart”, in which the passenger seats or benches faced outwards to the side, so when you went on an excursion (a jaunt) you could see the countryside better.” Funny what Mick knows.
Anyway, all garden lovers know Everglades, but the house, the house, the house – just a fabulous genuine 1935 art deco masterpiece restored and maintained stunningly by the National Trust, including perfect period furniture and fittings and genuine paint finishes – mainly a striking tobacco, and a tea room hostess dressed in exactly the right uniform. The only things missing were the sleek deco automobile in the driveway, and the gorgeous girl (although Mrs H. was pretty impressive on the day).
Art Deco buildings are an important part of Bathurst’s heritage too. The building in George Street (pictured) is a gem, with its five vertical ziggurats and classic deco façade. It is not grand, mercifully the signage on it is reasonably subdued compared to others including its art deco neighbour, and it is lovely to have as part of our heritage commercial streetscapes– well done to the owner.
Thought of the week … “Come on Bathurst, we have some good art deco, let’s celebrate it by getting the commercial signage off the facades, and painting it in authentic art deco colours.”
by a humble heritage advocate – August 2023 column #281
Evans Arts Council Inc.
4 – 6 August 2023
ü Friday 6pm – 8pm ü Saturday 10am – 4pm
Sunday 10am – 3pm
Professional Artists are invited to enter items for sale
Bathurst Memorial
4th August
Guest Artist: Wanda Driscoll
the minor premiers on 19 competition points and play their qualifier against Manildra on Sunday.
CSU Mungals were the only other Midwest side to make the finals, just sneaking into eighth spot, one point ahead of Peak Hill.
Story and Photos by John Fitzgerald
Manildra, Canowindra, Condobolin and Trundle have maintained season-long spots in the top four, swapping positions occasionally when drawn to play each other.
Separated by one competition point coming into the final round, the top two teams, Manildra and Canowindra played off for the minor premiership, reigning premiers Manildra taking the honours 30-20.
Among the three competing Midwest clubs, Orange United have done best, finishing the premiership rounds in fifth place, with Oberon three points behind in sixth.
Oberon and Orange snapped at each other’s heels most of the season with Orange leapfrogging the Tigers in the last weeks of competition games.
Having previously beaten their rivals this week both clubs should win their semis and advance to the next round of finals games.
CSU, in rebuilding mode, despite some strong games through the season, finished just out of the top eight.
Peak Hill and Grenfell make up the finalists in seventh and eighth positions.
The makeup of the first week of semi-finals sees Manildra drawn against Trundle, and Canowindra to play Condobolin in the qualifying games.
In the elimination finals games Oberon are at home to Peak Hill, and Orange United are drawn against Grenfell at Wade Park.
In the leaguetag premiership Condobolin finished two competition points in front of Manildra to take the minor premiership. Orange United finished three points behind
The university side played many good games through the year but played possibly their worst game last week to fall to the strong Orange team 28-10. With their strike players back this week they are expected to win the first semi-final on Sunday against the Canowindra side and progress to the next week of finals.
Oberon leaguetag side played some attractive football but ended up near the bottom of the ladder and out of contention.
Pictured: Oberon’s Will Melchers
Pictured: CSU leaguetag’s Amy Gallagher
The Woodbridge Cup regular season finished last weekend with the same four teams virtually unchallenged all season at the top of the competition table.
