Our Own News Issue 302 - September 2008

Transcription

Our Own
News
SE NON E VERO, E MOLTO BEN TROVATO
Now
$2
Issue 302 - September 2008
Dispatch from Laguna Public School
“And yea, the sap rose and so the stick did push forth buds and leaves, and made itself new again.
The school looked upon it, and it was good.”
These words of dubious origin are our inspiration as we follow the progress of a Kurrajong tree planted at the school to mark
Schools’ National Tree Day on 25 July. This tree was underperforming at a local residence, and was brought to school to give it
another shot at life. Be sure to send it some positive thoughts as you pass it on your way in and out of the school grounds.
Term 3 is underway and is a typically busy one at Laguna. The biggest event on our calendar, the Annual Laguna PS P&C Art Show,
opens on Friday 29 August and will run through the weekend. This is the major fund raising event for the school and showcases the
work of local artists. The students will also be submitting artwork to the show, and local artists Branka Uzur, Kes Harper, Bhrett
McIntyre and Phil Drummond have held workshops at the school to help students produce their artworks.
Laguna is participating again this year in Coalfields Rock, a night of dance, drama and song for schools in the Cessnock region.
Students are working hard under the enthusiastic tutelage of Simone Smith, with thanks to ex-students Laura and
Bronte Annis-Brown for choreography tips! The performance date is Thursday 4 September at Cessnock High School.
The old shipping container that was our general purpose shed has gone, replaced by a new colourbond double garage that doesn’t
require performance of arcane rituals to open it. Rumours that John Donkers has set up a TV, bar fridge and couch in the shed are
surely scurrilous. The other big news is that construction has commenced on the new Art Room, located next to the Senior room.
This term the Junior classroom is hosting two preschool orientation days for 2009 Kindergarten students. The dates are Friday 15
August and Friday 19 September, and follow on from the orientation days in Term 2. If you are considering enrolling your child at
Laguna in 2009, please contact the school.
The Senior class are keeping busy this term participating in a range of academic and sporting competitions. Kirra Philip,
Fergus Pengelly and Sam Williams represented Laguna PS in the Mayoral Academic Challenge, and were runners up in their heat to
the eventual competition winners. Riley Clough, Summer Bolton, Ryan Dixon and Matt Herron represented the school at the Zone
Athletics Carnival – a fantastic effort. Over the next couple of weeks students will be participating in the University of NSW Maths
and English competitions, having completed the UNSW Science competition in Term 2.
Craig Howe
Community news for Wollombi and surrounding districts
1
Issue 302 - Our Own News - September 2008
Note to all contributors and advertisers
The deadline for copy and ads in OON is on the 10th day of
each month. Contributions are only accepted in a simple
Word file or on an email sent to our email address below.
Our Own News will now be published on or around the
20th of the month to give more notice of events.
OON Coordinator: Sandy Thomas
NEW RELEASES
2006 Late Harvest Semillon – Slightly sweet,
very fruity style
2005 Reserve Chambourcin – Richly flavoured,
good tannin balance. This wine is a tribute to
Alistair Sutherland’s great winemaking skills.
From very ripe fruit, it is 13.5%alc.
An excellent winter drink unchilled –
great flavour.
Open 7 days, 10 - 5pm. STONEHURST WINES,
WOLLOMBI ROAD, CEDAR CREEK NSW 2325
ph.4998 1576 www.cedarcreekcottages.com.au
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:
[email protected]
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.
August Garden Group
What a privilege it was to be invited to Hugo Brandli's
garden. This man, through trial and error has devised his
own system of organic gardening based on biodiversity and
biodynamic principles. BD
practitioners like Hugo, believe healthy
soil is a prime basis for healthy plants,
and animals and people. To improve
the soil, specific preparations are made
from farm-sourced materials, to add
'good' bacteria. Horn Manure, Horn
Silica and Compost Preparations help
to enliven and enhance the soil. They
assist in the fertilising process, as well
as providing better fruit and seed
development, improved flavour, aroma,
colour and nutritional quality.
As we followed Hugo around listening
to his philosophies and practical goodsense gardening tips, we couldn't help
be impressed by his dedication to the
earth he is tending so lovingly. He
follows a planting calendar dictated by
the moon and the planets. Crop
rotation is also very important.
Weeds are an integral part of this garden providing
information on the imbalances of the soil, plants and
animals. They are a natural mulch, and a basis for the
'weed-tea' he enriches with urine to provide nitrogen
helping to break down his compost heaps.
Fruit-tree trunks and branches, linking the
earth and sky, are covered with a thick
mixture composed of compost, clay,
diatomatious earth and whey, acting as a
healing agent following pruning.
The chickens following Hugo around like
children, chattering and pecking up titbits
from the garden beds, also provide a
permaculture aspect to this intriguing
garden.
Hugo has used his life experiences, years
of experimentation and knowledge of
different garden techniques to create one
of the most interesting and unusual
gardens we have visited – it certainly
made most of us think 'outside the box'.
Next month on 1st September at 1 pm
we will be visiting Lindsay and Loris Self's
garden at 630 Yango Creek Road 6 km south of the Tennis
Courts. The settlers house and garden is a 'must-see'.
Maggie Brown
2
Wollombi Valley Matters
Many have asked, what are the aims of the Wollombi Valley
Progress Association? So I take time to list them here. They
were determined when Laguna and Bucketty joined with
Wollombi to form the Progress Association as it exists now.
Statement of Objects
1. To represent and progress the interests of the residents
and ratepayers of the Wollombi Valley.
2. To provide a forum whereby such residents and ratepayers
can involve themselves in, and contribute to, matters
pertaining to the Wollombi Valley and the villages situated
therein.
3. To seek ways and means to bring about social, cultural and
material benefits for the Wollombi Valley community.
This Statement of Objects, and the adoption of the Model
Rules, was subsequently formally recorded with the NSW
Department of Fair Trading, and remains the current position.
Other matters of interest in the Valley are briefly noted
below.
GAS EXPLORATION IN WOLLOMBI VALLEY
A special group has been formed to deal with the gas issue in
the valley - Wollombi Valley Against Gas Extraction (WAGE).
This group is independent of Progress but is being supported
by Progress in its community involvement. Sean Gough is
leading this group and has reports and comments elsewhere
in this issue.
ON LEP matters, we are all awaiting the exhibition of the
final LEP for public comment.
RECREATION SPACE has been the subject of local and
Council interest and discussion.
Progress Association is yet to finalise this subcommittee that
is to be led by Robyn Lamond to progress the recreational
landspace allocation in the area as well as the exciting idea of
a cycleway between Laguna and Wollombi.
Those of us who attend the Wollombi Store may have seen
the exciting proposals that Michael Noyce has submitted for
the WOLLOMBI COTTAGE. Wine Museum, Cellar Door
and a home for Mary Blazey’s much loved craft store are all
part of the upgrade for the historic buildings. Sympathetic to
the “in keeping” rebuilds of the cottage , barn and the old
kitchen, is a special feature cellar door, the latest in minimal
environmental footprint from photovoltaic imported glass.
Michael Noyce took time to explain his ideas to an attentive
Progress Meeting. Hopefully another unused historic building
(the Barn) can be sympathetically brought back into use.
October Market Day will soon be upon us and Robyn
Lamond and Carl Hoipo are eagerly awaiting the throngs of
willing helpers who are asked to contact them to help run
this annual event for the benefit of Progress and the Laguna
Fire Brigade.
Just a wee reminder that the next meeting of the Progress
Association is the AGM. This will be held on Saturday 30
August. All office holder positions are up for re-election and
all current members of Wollombi Valley Progress Association
are encouraged to participate. Nominations for positions can
be obtained from Paul or Priscilla Flemming or myself, and
have to be submitted to me, as the Secretary, more than 7
days before the AGM. Everyone is welcome to come along to
the AGM and participate. Membership fees are also due for
the next year at the AGM.
Michael Young,
Secretary,
WVPA
Letter to OON
At the WAGE meeting in Laguna on 9 August concerning the
intrusion by Sydney Gas into Wollombi Valley, solicitor Josie
Walker from the Environmental Defenders Office was asked
what protection might the Valley be afforded against gas
exploration and operations from being zoned E3 rather than
RU2.
While she pointed out that E3 zoning would not carry any
legal power to prevent gas exploration or production, she
made it clear that it would ‘lend weight’ to our capacity to
prevent, halt, hold up, and/or obstruct, these activities.
Surely anything that ‘lends weight’ to our community’s very
tough fight on the gas issue should have support. E3 zoning
and its intentions would be a valuable weapon in opposing
bureaucratic and political decisions to allow further gas
activities, including production, in the Valley. It has other
merits for the Valley that have barely been discussed, but its
apparent restrictions, so loudly proclaimed in recent months,
in my view pale into insignificance compared to its potential
to help defeat the likes of gas moguls.
Bronwyn Duncan
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3
The Greens Stance on Methane Gas
Extraction in Wollombi Valley
WOLLOMBI SANDSTONE
The extraction of coal seam methane gas has no place in the
historic, environmentally sensitive Wollombi Valley. Despite
assurances by Sydney gas, there is no guarantee that mining will
not cause damage to the local streams and aquifers in the valley.
The local creek and tributaries are already under stress from
population and farming. The recent environmental assessment for
the Paxton sewerage works tested water quality in both
Congewai and Wollombi Brook. It found that at 5 out of 9 test
locations (including one upstream from Wollombi) the water
quality was poor. The CMA record that the Wollombi Brook
stops flowing into the Hunter River for an average of 70 days per
year. Methane Gas extraction may contribute to the stress our
water quality.
The Greens are opposed to new mining at ‘green field‘ sites such
as the Wollombi Valley. There is only a small window of
opportunity to reduce our carbon emissions to avoid the worst
effects of global warming. Now is the time to stop new mining
for non-renewable energy sources such as coal and methane.
There may be a place for the use of methane gas as an energy
source at existing operations during the transition to renewable
energy sources. Burning methane gas can reduce carbon
emissions by up to 45%. Unfortunately this is often used as an
argument for developing new fields such as at Wollombi. In reality
it just allows state and federal governments to delay the
investment in renewable energy and the large gas companies to
make higher profits .
The Environmental Defenders Office informed the recent public
meeting at Laguna Hall that the proposed E3 Zone would add
another layer for the Minister to consider before before
deciding whether to approve or reject any proposed gas mining
in Wollombi, as it would show that both the local Council and
the community valued the environment.
It should come as no surprise that a motion by Greens
Councillor James Ryan to write to the Minister asking that he
look at this issue was voted down by the Labor Councillors at
the last Cessnock Council meeting.
As Lee Rhiannon pointed out at the recent meeting at Laguna, it
is very difficult to challenge the legal right of mining companies to
explore and ultimately mine unless all of the community gets
behind the issue. Ultimately it has only ever been groups of
ordinary local people getting together that have eventually
stopped inappropriate developments.
The Greens candidates for Council, with James Ryan, support
communities in their campaigns to fight inappropriate
developments. The local Council should be a place that assists
communities to protect and maintain their character and allows
everyone have their say.
The NSW government has a history of granting mining approval
despite all the best evidence presented as to why projects should
not go ahead. We call on Premier Iemma to say no to this
ill-advised development.
For more information
Councillor James Ryan
mob. 0414922591
[email protected]
Elizabeth Hilton – Ward A Candidate ph. 4998 0337
[email protected]
Tim Plater, Convenor, Cessnock Kurri Greens
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
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Eats Grass and Leaves
Call Glenn on 4998 8150 or 0419 195 501
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4
Wollombi Valley Arts Council
The COMING of SPRING. PENNY WALTON and HADYN WILSON are holding an exhibition to celebrate the Coming of
Spring. This is the first combined exhibition of this wonderfully talented husband and wife team. Join them for drinks at 4 pm, on
Sat 23 August, at the Wollombi Cultural Centre.
Penny is an illustrator who has worked mainly in children's books, illustrating picture and educational books. Her illustrations are
often influenced by nature.
Hadyn has exhibited widely within Australia and overseas. He has won many awards throughout his long career as an artist and his
work always has a strong connection to the environment.
Gallery hours are from Saturday 23 August to Sunday 31 August, 10am to 4pm. Weekends only.
FIONA BATEMAN & FRIENDS
Join Fiona on Friday 5 September at 6pm at the WCC, for drinks, nibbles and some very cool guitar music.
Fiona is an enormously talented local artist who last exhibited at the WCC in August 2005. Her works virtually sold out! This current
exhibition of paintings and mixed media promises to be very bold and beautiful and runs for two weekends, 10am to 4pm, until
Sunday 14 September.
BLACK & WHITE, an exhibition of Aboriginal art by PETER WILLIAMS, will open at the Wollombi Cultural Centre on Friday 19
September at 6pm. Refreshments available. Don't miss it!
Peter, a Ngemba man from the North West (Brewarrina) of NSW, last exhibited at the WCC in 2005 and has been travelling this
wide brown land since then, most recently based in Alice Springs.
This is Peter's 4th exhibition at the WCC and his works should be visually stunning as, for the first time, he has decided to use only
black and white acrylics.
Joining Peter will be artist Lochie Dennis, of Walgett origin. Lochie's works are very intricate in design and reflect his great love of his
culture.
This exhibition will be open for two weekends, 10am to 4pm, from the 19 Sept. to Sunday 28 Sept.
IT'S BACK!
Peter is also extending a personal invitation to the people of the Wollombi Valley to join him and his brothers at the 2008
WOLLOMBI CORROBOREE at Sundown, on Sunday 5 October at the Selwood Property, 6 kms from Wollombi on the Broke road.
No tourist buses allowed.
This is the same location where the first corroboree in the Wollombi district, in probably 150 years, was held in 1990. Bring your
family and friends so as to share this wondrous experience. Be on site before dusk, as the dancing will commence shortly after
sunset. Bush BBQ/tea/coffee available (also bush loos), or bring your own picnic and, remember come prepared for a cold night bring
a blanket/cushion to sit on as well. The dancers represent Ngemba, Worrimi, Thungaddi, Wiradjuri and Kamilaroi tribes. Don't miss
this rare opportunity to be part of a memorable experience as our Indigenous friends are travelling long distances to share
Aboriginal Culture with the Valley.
Proudly sponsored by Valley Artists Inc and Wollombi Valley Arts Council Inc.
LAST CALL - TIME'S RUNNING OUT!
EMERGING ARTISTS AWARDS - $3000 AWARD MONIES ON OFFER.
Entry forms must be submitted (postmarked) by 6pm Mon 22 September 2008.
The Wollombi Valley Arts Council is inviting entries from all emerging artists of any age in any
medium.
The major Award of $1500 is an Acquisitive Award funded by Cessnock City Council. Thank
you CCC.
The WVAC is funding two Encouragement Awards of $600 each plus an Under 18 Award of
$200 and an Under 12 Award of $100. There will also be two Highly Commended Certificate
Awards.
The entry fee is $10 and the presentation of awards will be on Friday night 3 October 2008.
The Exhibition, with all works for sale, will run to 19 October, 10am to 4pm.
For more information visit our website and download an entry form at www.wollombi.org
Or contact Rebecca on 0412 572 651 or email [email protected]
WCC Booking Enquiries for 2008 to Bronnie (49988347) or Fi Fi (49983339).
Next WVAC Meeting 2pm Sunday 7 September at the WCC.
Email [email protected]
Go www.wollombi.org
Bronnie Aliotti
Picture: Penny Walton Still life
5
Cunneens Bridge and Paynes Crossing Road - End July updates from Council
Cunneens Bridge
Section 87 Permit (Aboriginal Heritage Impact) has been approved by the Dept of Environment and Climate Change. Excavation
works will be carried out in the near future.
Statement of Heritage Impact addendum has been completed. It will now be sent to the Heritage Office to be approved.
The chicanes in place around the bridge have reduced the number of overloaded vehicles using the bridge. There have been reports
from several residents recently of heavy vehicles turning around at the designated areas. This is helping to reduce loads on the bridge
and maintain its use as a sidetrack while the new bridge is constructed.
Tender docs for the bridge design and construction are still under way.
A brief has been prepared for a consultant to carry out a Flora and Fauna Assessment on the site
Paynes Crossing Road
Agreements to Enter have been received from several land owners adjacent to the gravel section of the road. Council is now in a
position to carry out Indigenous, archaeological and environmental assessments required to assist with the project impact
assessment.
A brief has been prepared for a consultant to carry out a Flora and Fauna Assessment on the site
A decision has been made to pursue investigations of only the low level dual carriageway option to allow the project to be
expedited. This will have prolonged road closure consequences during the construction phase of the works.
Wollombi Valley Progress Association
6
Wollombi Valley Landcare Group
FOX CONTROL UPDATE
Encouraging widespread fox baiting in the Valley has turned out to
be much more restrictive than we expected. There are
understandably very strict regulations on the use of 1080,
including a minimum distance of 500 metres for any bait burial
station from an occupied site. As our area is quite closely settled,
it is difficult to find many places for stations in areas that foxes
frequent.
CVA volunteers use rakes and a pump to remove Salvinia near
Wollombi, July 2008
Photo: HCR CMA
We are now making enquiries about another option, which will
involve an outside agency doing the baiting with smaller minimum
distances due to their undertaking a fox control risk assessment.
There are very successful fox baiting programs, even in urban
areas, using this approach and we are keen for the wildlife of the
Wollombi Valley to enjoy some respite from fox predation. Areas
of northern Sydney are enjoying the return of small native
mammals and ground dwelling birds as a result of a twice yearly
‘Outfox the Fox’ program.
SALVINIA ALWAYS A CHALLENGE
Wollombi Valley Landcare Group Committee
In late July a team of young volunteers, one of many recruited
from throughout the world to work on conservation projects
around Australia by Conservation Volunteers Australia started to
tackle the Salvinia, a noxious water weed originally from Brazil,
choking the wetland next to Avoca House on Wollombi Road.
These projects in natural areas always present challenges and this
was no exception. However, despite the cold and rain the group
has made a sizable hole in the infestation. It was unrealistic to
expect much more from a few days work. The team was very
grateful of the cosy and comfortable cottage accommodation
provided by Capers Guesthouse.
Different equipment will be required to remove a significant
amount of this infestation. However, a more mechanised approach
may also be prohibitively expensive. If we are able to clear the
Salvinia off half the wetland, there may be an opportunity to
introduce the Salvinia Weevil, a biological control, in the spring
when the conditions will be warm enough for the new growth it
lives off.
Meanwhile a new infestation in Wollombi Millpond is being
treated, confined by booms and closely monitored by the Weeds
Officers at Cessnock Council. It is critical to tackle Salvinia as
early as possible when volumes are lower. Once it is thickly
layered its treatment presents greater challenges.
The Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority is
providing some funding assistance through to the end of October
/early November this year, targeting infestations such as this
which have appeared since the June 2007 flood. It's a joint project
with CMA, Council, Hunter Councils and the local community
working together. The CMA would like to hear ASAP from any
landholders who know or suspect that they have Salvinia on a
dam or waterway. Contact Lorna Adlem 4938 4925.
WOLLOMBI
LABOUR DAY MARKET
Monday 6th 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 BOOKING REQUIRED
EXCEPT 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
Contact Robyn Lamond 4998 8415
7
Spiritual Diary
In February 2007 the BBC program “Songs of Praise” went to the small village of Wreay in Cumbria. The Parish Church, St Mary’s,
(look at the website http://www.stmaryswreay.org/index.html) was facing a huge repair bill of £50,000. Aled Jones interviewed
writer and broadcaster Eric Robson. I thought that what he had to say was very interesting and encouraging for small rural village
communities in Australia. He starts off talking about the roof.
“The biggest problem is that the stone slabs on the roof were originally pegged with wooden pegs and those wooden pegs have
given way. Some of them have slipped letting water in. Some have fallen off altogether. So unfortunately its going to cost £50,000.
It’s nothing in terms of amounts that can be spent on great Cathedrals, but a huge amount for a small Cumbrian Village.
I first came across this place ….. I was brought up in Carlisle, 5 miles away and I suppose we came out here on weekends, on bike
rides and trips out with Mum and Dad.
Now I regard this rather as an Ecclesiastical Crossword. The symbolism, the conceits … it’s just wonderful really, a really hopeful
building because, although they’ve got all the nasty bits, the bats and dragons and nasties hiding in corners, overwhelmingly it’s a
church of redemption, resurrection and new light.”
And this I found was the really interesting comment……..
“There’s a danger of saying that the congregation is not very big these days. It will cost a lot to put the roof back on. Why bother?
And yet for all sorts of reasons, all sort of different layers of interest, this place is important. It’s at the heart of the community.
That’s the most important thing of all. Rural communities that rely on agriculture are under a lot of pressure and having
somewhere which actually embodies the Christian message and the soul of the place ….. It’ll make the community survive.”
In March this year all of the repairs were completed and the church is once again open to the public.
When we look at small rural villages and towns in Australia we are often overwhelmed by the futility of dreaming about their
future. However, so often throughout the world, churches, synagogues, temples and mosques focus the heart and spirituality of
small rural communities. It is important to retain them. It is important to do all we can to ensure that they are symbols of hope
for the future of humanity and the world.
Graham Jackson
Lynn Wall (DipRM, DipCM)
Wollombi Massage & Health Service
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Deep Tissue Muscle & Acupressure Therapy
Hot Stone Massage, Workcover
Australian Bush Flower Therapy
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for "Cancer Massage & More"
Phone 02 4998 3277 Mobile 0417 651372
Email: [email protected]
Massage details - http://www.wollombimassage.com
Mimaranda Horticulture & Pool Services
greg kelso
landscaping horticulture lawn care
pool maintenance
www.mimaranda.com.au
4998 8015
[email protected]
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
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community.
www.wollombirealestate.com.au
Ph: 4998 3219
8
Wollombi Museum
DIXON
PLASTERERS
Lic. No. 72278
Plastering Contractors
Phone: 02 4998 8453
Mobile: 0412 130 184
Ben
after 5pm
obol Electrical
Lic No. 161665C
Domestic, Commercial &
Industrial Installation,
Maintenance & Breakdown Service
Ph: 4998 1659
Mob: 0405 121 282
Although the number of Tour
Group (small bus tours) visits are
down the admissions of tourists
to Wollombi Museum are up. We
therefore think regular tourists by
car are not reacting to the higher
petrol prices but the retirement
villages, resorts and small bus
tours are being affected. Financially
we are therefore to July 2008
slightly down against the same
period last year. I wonder if this is the same trend for other
Wollombi businesses.
We note it is common to hear from tourists that they want
more to occupy them when they are visiting Wollombi. To this
challenge we are reenergising and reprinting our Wollombi
Historic Walks brochure, which we have handed out free from
the Museum in the past and will continue so to do. We wish to
improve on this brochure as well as work with other Wollombi
groups to broaden the number of walks and to distribute the
brochures from businesses throughout Wollombi. To do this we
need support both financially and through more manpower to
improve on this service to Wollombi visitors. Please contact
Carl Hoipo or Lindsay Self or leave a note for us at the
Wollombi Museum and we will work together to achieve a
better service for our Wollombi visitors.
Work on the Cell, Timber Industry Exhibition and the Museum
Display projects is moving ahead steadily and we invite local
residents to come and see what our Wollombi Museum looks
like and how we are changing our displays to represent the
history of Wollombi Valley and surrounds.
Lindsay Self, Wollombi Museum Convener
The Alternative ‘City to Surf’
The Alternative "City to Surf" was again successfully held at Laguna
on Sunday 10 August, a very cold windy day. Despite this there
were over 30 competitors of ages from age 3 [Atticus] upwards.
The fastest man was Michael Young and the fastest lady was
Lorraine Saxon. At the conclusion of the event a BBQ was held
despite the weather . Thanks to all competitors and helpers,
particularly Doug Mackie and Peter Gibson.
Put Sunday 9 August 2009 in your diary for next years event.
John Forsyth and Robbie.
Ken Maurer
on
9413 1377
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SERVICING THE LOWER HUNTER AND SURROUNDS
9
Over the Hill
Have the Indian Mynas reduced in numbers? Or is it an illusion?
This week a magpie sang from a fence post and was not
molested. A pair of Peewees patrolled the lawn for slugs and
snails and, best of all, a pair of Blue-faced Honey eaters joined
the native noisy miners for a feast in the Grevilleas.
There are still some of those horrid bullies around but not in
the vast numbers we had last summer. I hope someone is
trapping or somehow getting rid of them. One of the worst
things about them is that they nest in tree hollows and there
are not enough nesting places for some of our most
spectacular birds. The parrot family including budgerigars and all
the owl group need tree hollows only found in old mature
trees. If they can’t find suitable nesting sites they do not breed
so the Indian mynas are reducing the number of parrots and
owls
Possums and snakes and feather-tailed gliders and the big
yellow- bellied glider also need tree hollows for shelter. “Wood man spare that tree”.
We all fear the odd dead branch that could be dangerous when
it falls. Before you destroy it think. “This is some creature’s
home”. At the Botanic Gardens they built nest boxes of timber
and fastened them high up when they had to remove old
hollow branches. They had to consider the danger to visitors.
This involved the use of a machine they called a “Cherry
Picker” and they got the Council involved – something we
ordinary conservationists cannot hope for. It is good to plant
trees but it takes a lifetime to grow a tree that drops a branch
and leaves a hollow for a nesting site.
Bette Thomas
Laguna Public School’s P&C Association 2008
Fundraiser &
Art Exhibition
Opening Night
When:
Where:
Entry:
Cleaning house
7pm, Friday 29 August, 2008
Restaurant opens at 6pm. Exhibition opens at 7pm
Laguna Community Hall, Great North Road, Laguna
$15.00 includes commemorative glass, a
complimentary glass of wine & catalogue. Due to
NSW liquor laws, no person under 18 will be admitted.
Well, after years of moving furniture and all other types of stuff
so as to be able to vacuum efficiently and get the carpet clean
and get rid of all the dust, putting the little johnson on the end
of the suction device to get into all the nooks and crannies, you
know, those inaccessible places where that thing just will not
suck out of with good result, there is another way!
I have invented it!! All you need is a compressor with hose and
a blow tool at the end of it, I did it today, far out, nothing needs
to be moved, (perhaps those full ash trays if there is a smoker
around). Man oh man, what a blow job! It takes a few goes for
the first time, anyway 120psi does wonders, after ten minutes,
go back inside. There will be a fine layer of dust over everything,
put the fan on facing out the door, then pshshhsh again, even
the dishes on the sink were safe only because they were dry,
just another blow and..... pshshshs gone. All those nooks and
crannies, gone! Spiders, cobwebs, gone. I guess that a high
pressure blow is better than a weak suck. I did this today and
my pad is now dust free and clean.
Stephen Spreckley
General Exhibition
When:
Entry:
Saturday 30 & Sunday 31 August 08, 10am to 4pm
Free. Children welcome
The exhibition showcases work by local artists and children.
Pictured: “Still Life (Lemons)” Philip Drummond
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
10
Plans for “Wollombi Cottage”
The Noyce family have been farming in Milsons Arm Rd for
nearly 40 years, and have had a small vineyard since 2002. Sales
are mainly through restaurants and independent bottle shops in
Sydney, the internet, and our mailing list. Family members also
owned and operated the Wollombi Tavern in the 1970s.
To expand our sales and have a retail outlet we are presently
purchasing “Wollombi Cottage” in the centre of the village.
“Wollombi Cottage” was constructed in 1840 and also includes
the building facing the main road in which a craft shop
operates, a large detached kitchen at the back, and a lovely old
wooden barn at the front. Next to the driveway is the original
well that is virtually covered by vegetation, and not really able
to be appreciated by the community.
We have lodged plans with Cessnock City Council basically to
1. Stabilise and upgrade “Wollombi Cottage”
2. Use “Wollombi Cottage” for a wine museum and wine
display area, through interpretive signs, in situ displays and
exhibitions.
3. Construct a new glass building in the shape of a pyramid
next to the Cottage. Retail wine sales would be made from
this new building.
4. Restore the old kitchen.
5. Restore and stabilise the barn for a new retail shop, possibly
a craft shop.
6. Restore the old well.
7. Undertake some miscellaneous work including a new toilet,
‘Enviro-cycle’ septic tank, additional rainwater tank.
We are very appreciative of the heritage and history and
“Wollombi Cottage”, the township and surrounding area. With
this in mind we engaged heritage architects to develop our
plans and manage all the heritage aspects. Our architects have
ensured that at all times our plans respect and actually enhance
the heritage significance of the site and satisfy the heritage
principles, particularly as outlined in Principles Applying to
Conservation Work in Heritage Places from the NSW Heritage
Office.
We believe our plans represent a sympathetic and appropriate
solution because
1. Within the Heritage Conservation Village of Wollombi, the
glass pyramid will largely reflect its surroundings and
therefore negate its visual impact on the streetscape. This is
a similar effect to the glass pyramid in the courtyard of the
Louvre in Paris.
2. The glass and its structure will represent state-of-the-art
sustainable design incorporating solar energy absorbing
photovoltaic cells and double glass for energy efficiency. A
large natural sandstone rock shelf will be incorporated
within the glass building.
3. Being a modern and quite unique 21st century building, the
glass pyramid will be a wonderful contrast to “Wollombi
Cottage”, and will emphasise the cottage’s heritage and
historical significant, thus accentuating the old by
counterbalancing it with the new.
4. Incorporating the required extra retail area in a separate
building means “Wollombi Cottage” is left intact both inside
and out. This is a key consideration stated in the Cessnock
Heritage Inventory SHI 1340091, and maximises the
continued integrity of “Wollombi Cottage”.
5. This will ensure continued use and access by the public
which is vital for heritage buildings and precincts.
Our plans and a photo montage are on display in the front
window of Wollombi General Store, and on the front door of
“Wollombi Cottage”. The two photos below and the plan from
the street will give an idea of our proposal. Our plans and
photos can also be accessed on our website
www.noycebros.com.au
We believe that our proposals will ensure conservation through
the use and maintenance of the buildings and grounds, and our
proposed wine museum and glass pyramid will develop into
interesting and significant attractions for the Wollombi.
We welcome any comments and our contact details are below.
Michael Noyce mobile 0416 245655
Peter Noyce
phone 91441479
email [email protected]
11
My name is Caroline Maul.
My family moved to "the Wollombi Valley" 20 years ago.
I have grown to love The Valley, its surrounds, and people.
Being a Small Family Business Operator has been
challenging,
I have seen this Valley grow and flourish over the years.
My daughter has grown up in this beautiful Valley.
My interest can now turn to a passion I have had for some
time, "Being a Voice" for Wollombi as an "Independent
Candidate" in the coming Council Elections
There are issues that are pending and need to be
addressed.
I see these issues as being,
● Transport
● Education
● Controlled Sustainable Development
● Improvement to our Infrastructure
● Ensuring the Protection of our Environment and Heritage
● Safe and Well Maintained Roads and Bridges
I am already an active member of The Tidy Towns
Committee, Wollombi Progress Association and Chamber of
Commerce.
I intend to work hard to ensure we never lose the natural beauty and benefits we now enjoy here in
The Wollombi Valley,
This doesn't mean, I wish Wollombi to stagnate, being in business I am fully aware progress is
necessary.
I hope you will support me in the coming Election, as I take up the batten for us all in Our Valley.
Authorised by Caroline Maul. 3226 Great North Road, Wollombi 2325
12
Performance
LAST CALL FOR ENTRIES
to the Wollombi Valley
Short Film Festival.
Remember - entries close
14 September, 2008.
So shoot it, edit it and send it on in!
Please avoid late entries, they may not make it
to the selection panel.
Bob Philippe's Directors Workshop was a huge success
with a total of 12 directors completing the course. Some of
these will go on to direct a piece in the end of year production
'ECLECTICA'.
AUDITIONS
Alan Glover is calling for expressions of interest for the end of
year production 'ECLECTICA'.
Actors who are chosen will play multiple roles.
The dates of production are: Opening night November 21, 22,
23,, 26, 27, 28., and 29.
Rehearsals: Tuesday & Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons
at Laguna Hall.
Those interested please ring Alan Glover 4998 1656.
POSITION VACANT
Valley Artists need a Stage Manager for the next production.
This is an important role in any production. We are happy to
provide training and support for this role. You will need to be
available from early September to work alongside overall
director Alan Glover. Unfortunately there is no pay, we all work
for the love and the thrill of producing live theatre. So if your
life is empty, devoid of excitement, put up your hand and come
work with an eclectic group of people towards our end of year
production 'ECLECTICA'.
Ring Janine for further information. 4998 8282
Janine Oliver
13
Poem - The River
The river might die
Said Walrus
With the frogs and the fish and the water fowl
And poison our water
If we let them in
We’ll watch them and stop them
Said Alice
Wollombi Valley
EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL
PEPPERY / MELLOW / INFUSED with BASIL,
CHILLI, ROSEMARY or LEMON MYRTLE
250ml
500ml
2 Litre
HOT WINTER PRICES at local stores and markets
4998 8415 0419 800896 [email protected]
With trenches and fences and spade and trowel
And we’ll build an E3
We’re in this together, we’re part of a crew
Sang Walrus and Alice
R U 2?
Anon. 2008
National Tree Planting Day July 20 2008
ANZAC Reserve Island- three paperbarks.
(Melaleuca Stypheloides) Photos: Tidy Valleys
Local accommodation
Bellbird
Tabitha Hill Cottage
02 4990 5091
Laguna
Apptrak Stud
Judsons at Laguna
Watagan Retreat
Wombat Bottoms
Yango Bend Cottage
02 4998 8412
02 4998 8085
0411 195 042
02 9498 4372
02 4998 8069
Millfield
Bellbird Cottages
Millbrook Estate
Vicar’s House
02 4998 1705
02 4998 1155
02 4998 1336
Wollombi
Avoca House
Capers Guesthouse
Cedar Creek Cottages
Cody’s Cottages
Guesthouse Mulla Villa
Mystwood Cabins
The Bungalow
Tarrawonga
Undercliff Settlers Cottage
Wild Edge Retreat
Wollombi Barn Stay
02
02
02
02
02
02
02
02
02
02
02
4998
4998
4998
4998
4998
4998
4998
9410
4998
4998
4998
3233
3211
1576
3256
3254
3234
3220
0024
3322
3304
3221
Restaurants, pubs and food stores
Laguna
Old Northern Trading Post
02 4998 8244
Millfield
Millfield General Store
02 4998 1263
Wollombi
The Gate Cafe
Cafe Wollombi
Wollombi General Store
Wollombi Tavern
Wollombi Tea Rooms
02
02
02
02
02
4998
4998
4998
4998
4998
3377
3220
3230
3261
3137
14
This Guide has been developed especially for those living on
rural residential properties. It aims to bring together in one
central location a range of useful information and resources to
assist you to enjoy the rural lifestyle you have chosen and to
achieve the personal goals you have set for your property.
These could include raising livestock, keeping horses, growing
your own food or recreating your own personal patch of the
Australian bush. In particular, the Guide aims to assist you in
ensuring that these activities complement the natural
environment and community in which you live.
Living on a rural residential property is becoming an
increasingly popular lifestyle choice. Being able to enjoy peace
and quiet, open space and the natural environment, while still
being close to large towns and cities are key factors driving this
trend. Rural residential properties are generally considered to
be those that are no less than approximately half a hectare
(1 - 2 acres) in size and which are located in the urban fringe
between towns and farming areas.
Moving to a rural residential property however, requires a
whole new set of skills and knowledge than those needed for
Spring back into
living in town. It often requires some understanding of how to
manage weed, land, water, animal, fire and biodiversity
considerations. However finding information and assistance in
this regard can often be a time consuming and complex task.
This Guide therefore brings together for you a range of existing
information and resources to assist in implementing activities
that may be suited to your property. It will also assist in
understanding and addressing the many land management issues
and challenges that you may face. The resources included in the
Guide have been developed by a range of government agencies,
local councils, community organisations and others. However
they have not previously been brought together in one readily
accessible location.
We hope that it will assist you in achieving your land
management goals. The guide can be accessed through its
website www.ruralresidentialliving.com.au (which is updated and
monitored regularly) or on disc from Cessnock City Council.
For more information please call Council’s Sustainability
Projects Officer Tricia Donnelly on 4993 4236.
The Essential Gardeners
Is Your Garden Looking Tired?
We specialise in garden design &
essential maintenance
❁ Preservation, weeding, pruning, lawn mowing,
maintenance and caretaking
❁ Creating specific Garden Rooms to suit your home,
lifestyle & environment.
❁ We use and recommend certified organic garden
products to improve the health of your plants and
protect the environment from harmful chemicals.
Call Julie on 4998 8786
Saturday 8.30 am
Tuesday 6.30pm
Wollombi Community Hall
$12 casual or $60 for 6 sessions
No booking necessary
Phone Lee Duncombe 4998 8170
All Timber Repairs &
Building Carpentry Services
30 years of experience
❁ Home extensions, renovation & maintenance,
internal and external repairs.
Pergolas, decks, handrails, stairs
To view some of my work please visit
www.alltimberrepairs.com.au
Contact Marty on 49988786
We believe in personal service using quality products,
materials and excellent workmanship, treating every project
as if it was our own home and garden.
We look forward to hearing from you!
15
Ken Fletcher
Isy Fletcher
Josh Bruce
Wollombi Stonemasonry
Services
f beautiful s
o
s
ork
new
to
Crafty Yarns
10am 3rd Monday monthly. Wollombi Tea Rooms, Wollombi
500 Card Group
7pm last Monday in the month. Wollombi Tennis Clubhouse
Garden Group
1st Monday monthly. Contact Sandy Draper 4998 3345
Laguna Fire Brigade
4pm in winter: 5pm in summer
1st Saturday even months, Laguna Fire Station
Laguna Market Day
9.30am-1pm. 3rd Sunday, monthly. Old Northern Trading Post,
Laguna
Laguna P&C
2pm 1st Tuesday monthly. Laguna Public School
Native American Indian Trading Blanket
1pm 28th Sept then 4th Sunday monthly.
1367 Wollombi Rd, Millfield. Ph Black Crow 4998 1475
Parent’s Group (for all kids 5 and under)
10am every Tuesday. Wollombi Recreation Ground, Wollombi
Stitch ‘N Bitch
11am 1st Saturday monthly. Wollombi Tea Rooms, Wollombi
St Johns Anglican Church Services
10am 2nd and 4th Sundays, St Johns, Wollombi
St Marks Anglican Church Services
10am 1st and 3rd Sundays, St Marks, Laguna
St Michaels Church Services
Masses 7pm, 2nd and 4th Fridays, St Michaels, Wollombi
Theology in the Pub
4pm first Sunday monthly at Old Northern Trading Post, Laguna
Wollombi Cattle Sales
1pm 2nd Saturday monthly, Wollombi Sale Yards
Wollombi Chamber of Commerce
6pm 2nd Monday of the month see www.wollombivalley.com
for venue or T: 4998 3322
Wollombi Fire Brigade
Training: 1pm, 3rd Saturday monthly, Wollombi Fire Shed
Meetings: 4pm, following training in even months
Wollombi Museum
6pm summer - 5pm winter, 1st Wednesday monthly except
January, Wollombi Cultural Centre
Wollombi P&C
2.30pm last Thursday monthly. Wollombi Public School
Wollombi Tidy Valleys
1pm Winter, 4pm Summer. 2nd Tuesday monthly.
Wollombi School Residence. Enquiries 4998 3227.
Wollombi Valley Arts Council
4 pm summer - 2pm winter. 1st Sunday monthly,
Wollombi Cultural Centre
Wollombi Valley Landcare
3rd Saturday even months
Contact Jane Mowatt 4998 8158
Wollombi Valley Pre-school
9.30 am - 2.30pm, every Wednesday at Wollombi Hall
Wollombi Valley Pony Club
Every 3 weeks contact President Simone 4998 8214 or
Secretary Tanya 4998 8319 for details
10am, last Saturday monthly, Wollombi Hall
All aspe
ct
Diary & Events
Ph: Ken Fletcher 49 981 664 or 0418 456 245
E: [email protected] Licence no. 90492C
Are your kids
misbehaving?
Can't help there either!
Should your computer misbehave
call Charles
Tel: 02 4998 3440
Mob: 0418 657 476
[email protected]
16
Wollombi Valley Pony Club News
For Pony Club information and coming events call Simone 4998 8214, Tanya 4998 8319, Kerri 4998 8207 or Julie 4998 8431.
Frank McLachlan
Native American Indian Trading
One of the fun things American Natives and the Smokey
mountain men do is trade. They call a trading blanket to be
held at a certain hour, people gather up there skins and knives
and baskets of hand made goodies or produce from their
orchard, wine, chocolate, pickles, jams, soaps or even jewellery.
Sometimes they are things that other people have made like
baskets, jumpers, wool, art gear, paintings, tools or even services.
Green backs are accepted after all who is going to say no to
money? As long as the item is good and not a piece of junk.
A person is chosen to run the blanket and people offer this
person an exchange of energy It is usually a pouch of tobacco
tied with a red ribbon but that is because tobacco is so
incredibly cheap in America. However, in Australia a $5
donation is acceptable. A large blanket is placed in the field or
area, the person in charge shows the hand signals that are used
if you decide not to trade for a particular item. An item is
placed in the centre of the blanket and people around the edge
deciding to trade for it will place something of equal value in
front of them on the blanket. The person with the centre item
then looks at all the items offered to trade very respectfully and
chooses one. He may, however be unable to decide, where
upon the traders might sweeten the pot with something extra.
Having chosen or decided not to trade his item he will pick up
his item and the item he wants to trade with and shake that
person’s hand, handing them the centre item and saying "good
trade". We had our first trading blanket this month, mandarins
were traded for chocolate cake, ponchos were traded for reiki
sessions, art supplies were traded for chocolate and wine and
paintings were traded for lighams. It was awesome fun and
everyone wants to do it again. Do come with lots of items in
your basket, you never know what you’re going to see that you
just have to have. Blessings, Black Crow
17
Laguna Bush Fire Brigade
COMMENCEMENT OF BUSH FIRE DANGER PERIOD
1 SEPTEMBER 2008
As you will see from the associated notice below, the Local
Bush Fire Danger Period will commence on 1 September. Any
lighting of fire in the open will require the issue of a Fire Permit
which is obtained in this area from NSW Rural Fire Service.
Permits are free of cost and may issued for a maximum 21days
(if weather permits). Penalties do apply for non-compliance or
illegal fires. For further information please contact 4991 1733
during business hours or website www.rfs.nsw.gov.au
The Permit Issuing Officer for the Laguna bushfire district is
Trevor Winn, who can be contacted on (02) 4998 8381. Permits
become valid 24 hours after the signed (by the applicant) form
has been submitted to the Fire Control Centre to be entered
into "the system”. This is normally accomplished by fax and will
only be processed during office hours. A moment's cogitation
will reveal that if the applicant wishes to "light that fire" on a
weekend, the signed permit to do so will need to be submitted
on a Thursday at the latest. This places weekenders at
something of a disadvantage as they will need to plan well
ahead. Also bear in mind that I do not issue fire permits for
Wollombi, Millfield or Bucketty fire districts. The contact details
for Permit Issuing Officers for these districts can be obtained
from Cessnock Fire Control Centre on (02) 4991 1733 and is
listed on the next page.
Trevor Winn, Senior Deputy Captain, Laguna Brigade
NSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE
MEDIA RELEASES 4th August 2008
FIRE PERMITS REQUIRED FROM 1st September 2008
Fire Permits will be required from Monday 1st September in the
Council areas of Cessnock and Maitland Council Areas with the
start of the Bush Fire Danger Period, the NSW Rural Fire
Service (RFS) announced today.
The local statutory Bush Fire Danger Period is from 1st
September to 31st March and requires people who want to
light open fires to obtain a free Fire Permit.
“The generally dry conditions and higher temperatures as we
get closer to summer increases the risk of open fires getting
out of control,” RFS Hunter Zone, Zone Manger Jayson
McKellar said.
With the current dry and windy condition the brigades are
experiencing an increase in the number of calls. These calls are a
result of fires escaping from control burns.
“Fire Permits will help us deal with these conditions as they
enable fire authorities to regulate use of fire. We can apply
conditions to encourage safer burning and the permit ensures
fire authorities are aware of exactly where and when fire is
being used.”
Fire Permits are free and are available through the RFS through
the Hunter Zone Office on 49 911 733 during Business hours
and NSW Fire Brigades Stations.
A complete list of where Fire Permits are required is available
on the RFS website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au. A range of
information to help people prepare their homes and families for
bushfire is available on the website.
The start of the Bush Fire Danger Period does not prohibit
burning completely, and landholders are encouraged to do
hazard reduction safely by applying for a Fire Permit.
If you want to do hazard reduction burning and think you might
need an environmental approval for the work, the RFS provides
a free hazard reduction environmental assessment service. Ask
about a Bushfire Hazard Reduction Certificate.
If you do wish to burn ask the RFS for advice, fire permits and
approvals:
• give fire authorities and neighbours 24 hours notice
• check weather conditions/Total Fire Bans
• delay the burn if concerning winds are forecast
• create proper fire breaks
• have adequate water resources on hand
• supervise the fire at all times
Call triple zero (000) immediately if fire escapes.
PREPARE FOR BUSHFIRE ALL YEAR ROUND
Lower Hunter Team
Eighty-six homes were destroyed by bushfire in NSW during
the 2002-2003 fire season. One hundred and nine were
destroyed in 2001-2002.
“Hundreds more homes faced the threat of bushfire. Many
survived while their neighbours burnt down,” said Inspector
Glenn Byrnes Lower Hunter Team.
“Those properties survived not only because firefighters could
provide protection, but also because they were properly
prepared and defended by able-bodied homeowners.”
“The NSW Rural Fire Service can help you increase the chance
of your property surviving bushfire by helping you prepare. Call
your local RFS Fire Control Centre or Rural Fire Brigade for
advice.”
“By preparing property well before the bushfire season and
making decisions about whether to stay with it when fire
approaches, you can decrease the risk of your home
catching fire or if your property is not properly prepared
you should make the decision to leave early. The NSW
Rural Fire Service can assist with a Bush fire Action Plan .”
said Inspector Byrnes.
“Ember attack is the most common cause of homes catching
fire. Hot embers can fly several kilometres in front of a fire
fronts and last for a number of hours afterwards.”
The NSW Rural Fire Services advises:
• Prepare your house NOW
• Prepare your family, pets and possessions NOW
• Decide whether to stay or go NOW
• Know what to do when fire approaches
• Know who can help you if your property is damaged or
destroyed.
18
RFS Open Day
Bucketty, Laguna, Wollombi and Millfied
Rural Fire Service (RFS) Brigades
will be participating in the annual
RFS OPEN DAY event on the weekend of
20 and 21 September 2008.
This event has played a very important function
to inform the community about the
role of the NSW Rural Fire Service and the
important work it does in our
community. It also provides brigades with an
excellent opportunity to meet
local residents and answer any enquiries in
regards to fire safety around
the home.
Look out for the posters advertising the times
and locations that your local
brigade will be open and come along and meet
the volunteers that support our
community. We'd love to meet you!
www.rfs.gov.au
FIRE PERMITS REQUIRED
1 September 08 to 31 March 09
Who do you call?
Your local BFB Fire Permit Officer:
Laguna
Trevor Winn
02 4998 8381
Wollombi Tony Hawkins
02 4998 3208
Grahame Maclean 02 4998 3130
Ian Bawden
02 4998 3226
Millfield
Des Kaminsky
Bucketty Les Stewart
David Finnie
02 4998 1723
02 4376 1368 or
02 4998 8191
If you are uncertain about which area you are in,
or for other advice, call Cessnock Fire Control on
4991 1733 to arrange an inspection and fire permit
THINK AHEAD - a minimum of 48 hours
is required to ensure your weekend
permit is processed.
YOUR LOCAL
FINANCE BROKER
Residential – Business – Personal
Richard Davies M Bus (UTS) JP
Member Finance Brokers Association of Australia
Ph: 4998 8337 or 0418 600 245
Experienced Painter &
Decorator, Handyman
Locally and Rural
Remote Areas
Nicola Dice
Ph 4323 3115
Mob 0458 531 801
19
"Who Cares about Cessnock's Environment?"
Survey
Snow Day?
Scott and Clio Hamilton skiing down their front
yard after the freaky hail storm on 29 July 08.
As part of an exciting new program called "Sign up for
Sustainability" about to commence in the Cessnock LGA,
Council is undertaking a survey to assess the knowledge,
awareness, attitudes and actions of the community towards our
local environment. From this survey a program of educational
activities will be developed to take to local service clubs, P&C
Groups, youth groups and community events. The survey only
takes a few minutes to complete with 10 short, tick box
questions.
The survey is available online through Council’s website at
www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au
Alternatively contact Tricia to have a printed version mailed.
Have your say now!
"Sign up for Sustainability"
A system of pledges will be incorporated into the program
whereby residents will 'sign-up' to undertake specific actions to
change their behaviour and improve their sustainability impacts.
These pledges will then be tracked for evaluation purposes to
see if actions are being undertaken and savings achieved.
The programs objectives are to:
1.
Gauge level of the community's knowledge, awareness,
attitudes and actions on urban sustainability issues.
2.
Decrease participant household energy and water usage
by at least 10%.
3.
Increase participant knowledge of biodiversity and
dryland salinity issues.
4.
And, enable existing community groups to develop
sustainability skills
If you have any questions about this program please contact:
Tricia Donnelly
Sustainability Programs Officer
Cessnock City Council
Ph: 4993 4236
LAGUNA MARKETS @
Old Northern Trading Post
3rd Sunday of every month
9.30am till 1.00pm
Sept 21 / Oct 19 / Nov 16
LOCAL produce: veggies, free range eggs, fruit, herbs,
plants, flowers, tubestock, olives, olive oil, preserves,
lavender products,
as well as: hand spun wool/beanies/scarves, jewellery,
vintage linen, bric-a-brac, secondhand books, etc…
together with: Wollombi Valley Landcare's landholder
resources stall
Tim the Barber, coffee and refreshments available
20
Gas - A Serious Issue
•
The extraction of methane gas from coal seams as an
energy source is very new in Australia and the science remains
uncertain.
•
The first step to developing a Coal Seam Methane Gas
(CSM) field is to drill core holes from which you take geological
core samples of the coal seam; which is what Sydney Gas are now
doing in the Wollombi Valley.
•
If a sufficient amount of methane is found in the core
sample, then the next step is to put a pilot gas well at the top of
the hole they have drilled. The pilot gas well is used to assess the
feasibility of establishing a production gas field; which is what they
now plan to do in the village of Broke.
•
An established production gas field will typically cover an
area of 30 – 40 square kilometres and consist of 200 – 300 gas
wellheads, each on top of their own hole with security fences,
access roads and methane gas pipelines traversing the landscape.
•
Methane gas is found in the coal seam where it is held in
the coal by water pressure.
•
To extract the methane, the pressure must be reduced
which is done by removing the water from the coal seam via the
wellhead. This water has high concentrations of dissolved salts and
other solids such as heavy metals. This water must not be allowed
to contaminate the local environment but has to be transported
away by road tanker. As each coal seam is effectively a groundwater
aquifer, significant volumes of water can be produced from each
well; as much as 100,000 litres per day. The total volume of water
to be removed cannot be predicted and this dewatering process
can take up to 18 months for each well, as has been the case in
Queensland where large CSM gas fields have already been
established. Imagine the numbers of road tankers coming to and
from each wellhead.
•
Extracting such large volumes of water from the coal
seam aquifer often depletes natural watercourses, groundwater
reserves and other aquifers. Sydney Gas try to downplay this risk,
but the evidence shows that the risk is significant and it cannot be
predicted what effect it will in fact have on this local environment.
•
As well as dewatering the coal seam aquifer, it is also
necessary to fracture the coal seam. The combination of reducing
the pressure and fracturing causes the methane to be released
from the coal and, ideally, flow up the pipe to the wellhead.
However, there have been cases where the methane finds other
paths to flow through cracks in the overlaying rock and vent
hundreds of metres away from the wellhead as happened at Stroud
near Gloucester in 2005 and, most notoriously, at Powder River
Basin in USA. If the methane seeps up through the soil it anoxidises
the soil, killing all vegetation. If the methane vents into a
watercourse, as is now happening in the Cataract River south of
Sydney, or into a groundwater reserve or aquifer it will pollute the
water. If the methane vents into an enclosed space, such as a
private house or school, it becomes a very serious hazard. Methane
gas is odourless and displaces oxygen thereby causing suffocation;
methane is also flammable and explosive in enclosed spaces, which
is why coal miners have always feared it.
•
The probability of these things actually happening cannot
be properly evaluated but they remain a definite risk. The NSW
Department of the Environment is extremely concerned that there
is a limited regulatory framework for this activity and development
has progressed without serious consideration for the environment.
In other words, The Petroleum (Onshore) Act 1991, which governs
the Coal Seam Methane Gas industry in New South Wales, is in
need of serious revision. This flawed legislation is further
compounded by the reckless attitude of the Minister of Primary
Industries and the Minister of Planning who ultimately have the
power to issue exploration and production licences without
reference to any other authority.
•
Added to these environmental risks, the legislation makes
it very difficult to prevent the exploration licence holder from
operating on private land. So, regardless of the private individual’s
views and their own efforts to safeguard the environment for
which they feel responsible as custodian, they would have to
expend very large amounts of money in legal fees if they wanted to
try and stop such a development. The alternative is a community
blockade as seen recently succeeding on Liverpool Plains.
•
Coal seam methane gas does produce about 30-40%
lower carbon emissions than coal so it can be argued that it is a
considerate step in the right direction. However, there are known
to be very large reserves of methane in areas where there are no
local communities to be put at risk, where there are no important
water catchments already under stress and where there are not
pristine natural environments needing protection. Further,
coalmines already burn off huge quantities of methane as a
necessary precaution for mining coal, so why not make use of that
resource? Sydney Gas argues that a gas field is a better option than
a coalmine for the Wollombi Valley. Well, you could just as easily say
that a gas field is a better option than having a new international
airport in the Wollombi Valley.
Further background information can be found in the news section
of the WAGE website www.wage.org.au
Sean Gough
Chairperson – WAGE [email protected] 02 4998 3103
Peter Firminger
Vice-chair – WAGE [email protected] 02 4998 3388
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Carl Hoipo
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22

Our Own News Issue 302 - September 2008

Transcription

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