Page 1 YASS VALLEY TIMES WEDNESDAY February 24, 2021

Water & Roads

Top Priority roadsfor up to standard," Dugdell he added. The Dugdell family have settled in the area, and with schooling locally and an in- reports it manages ap- terest in horses, they have already begun proximately $500 million of assets, of to immerse themselves into community which roads are the largest asset category. life. In his spare time, James enjoys run- Yass Valley Council counts the road net- ning and cycling and now he has the work at 1,237 kilometres, excluding Na- space, will return to gardening to grow fruit tional Highways & State Roads. and vegetables. James Dugdell looks forward to making a Dugdell has worked on various water sup- substantial contribution to making Yass ply projects and hopes his extensive expe- Valley an even better place to live. rience in the area will lead the team tasked with meeting the Yass water supply issues' Max O'Driscoll challenge at the present time.

"Having worked in water supply all around Wanted the world, I understand how difficult fixing water supply issues can be." Part "The team we have here are really keen on fixing the problem, and I intend to support Time them in that," he said. Yass Valley Council General Manager Chris Berry expressed his excitement Taxi Drivers about bringing the new director of engi- neering into the executive team. for Yass Yass Taxis need one or two part "We're very excited to have James on time drivers. The work will be board, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the role and we look forward to working mostly weekend days. with him on projects that we know will ben- You'll be able to work from home, The Yass Valley Council has welcomed After spending 16 days quarantining in efit our community in the long run," he and will receive a guaranteed Brisbane after a horror mishap extended James Dugdell as the new Director of In- said. retainer. Easy application process. frastructure and Assets. their stay after returning from the United Training provided. Kingdom, Dugdell and his family are happy Delivering better infrastructure to commu- Dugdell brings a wealth of experience after to be in Yass. nities is a consistent theme from James’ If you're good with people, learn completing a 26-year career as an engi- career highlights such as delivering water fast, have a good driving record neer in the army, in which he served stints "We've had a really good welcome to the supply and sewer infrastructure in Iraq, and are looking for some extra in Iraq, Afghanistan and Solomon Islands, community of Yass," Dugdell said. schools and roads in Afghanistan, or post work, please contact us. as well as aiding the recovery operation for disaster relief in Fiji. James has also Cyclone Winston in Fiji. Dugdell views correcting the water supply worked on the planning and delivery of in- Age is no barrier, Graduating from the Australian Defence issues and maintaining the roads of the frastructure, training and health benefits in although you must have held a full Force Academy in with a degree Yass Valley as the most important tasks for remote Australian communities as part of drivers licence for at least two him and his team as he begins his role at in Civil Engineering, James went on to the Army Aboriginal Community Assistance years. complete his training at the Royal Military council. Programme, the highlight being the seven- College in Canberra. James’ career fo- month deployment he led to the remote Please call Steve on cused on the delivery of infrastructure in "The water taste and colour issues need to community of Fregon in the Aṉangu Pitjan- Australia and overseas with his final day in be dealt with," Dugdell stressed. tjatjara Yankunytjatjara lands in north west 0417 294 966 uniform last December. "We have to get a handle on keeping the South Australia in 2013. to discuss.

4 Pollux St 233 Pudmans Lane, Blakney Creek 26 Shearsby Crescent 50 Pollux St, $540,000 $699,000 $485,000 $549,000 SOLD UNDER OFFER NEW LISTING UNDER OFFER

31 3 904 sqm block 93.08ha 5.98 hectares 321 968 sqm block Lovingly restored brick block home, beautifully Ideal family home looking for a new family. 240 acres with great water – there is a dam in every These views are simply amazing. New kitchen with plenty of cupboard room. paddock. Double creek frontage. presented. High ceilings, ornate cornice, modern colour Building envelope has been surveyed and a site cut scheme. Large lounge room with RCAC & s/c wood Polished floorboards throughout. Great mix of pasture – Phalaris, clover & natives. 40 foot shipping container. heater. Renovated kitchen with 900 oven. RCAC, new laundry, immaculately presented. Stringy bark & red gum, hinge joint and plain wire fencing. Mature Red Gum & Yellow Box and native pasture. Steel cattle yards, hay shed. Renovated bathroom. Large north facing sunroom Two alfresco dining areas set in established gardens. Mains electricity, water, garbage collection & mail. overlooking the back yard. Page 2 YASS VALLEY TIMES WEDNESDAY February 24, 2021 Waters to Leave Wee Jasper Reserve "Time for us now and our family," Mic helle said.

As for advice for future managers, Michael of- fered his insight into what he believes should be done.

"We've taken it to the point where it's back to the 21st century."

"Whoever takes it on now just has to prolong what we started, keep nourishing it, and put their own spin on it," he said. Michelle and Michael Waters tenure managing the Wee Jasper Reserves has officially come Among the notable changes made by the pair to an end. were brand new office spaces, new shower and toilet blocks, barbeque shelters, as well as After six years in charge, the couple feel com- potable clean water supply installed at each of fortable knowing they have made significant the reserves within Wee Jasper. and everlasting improvements to the Wee Jasper Reserves. The couple noted that whilst they have experi- enced more than their fair share of tragedy "When we went out there, it was multiple pad- from the roads surrounding the Wee Jasper docks, we had very little equipment, and we Reserves, some of their fondest moments had very little help. come from meeting with the families of the people they had tried to help save. "We've left it in a much better place!" Michelle said. "Throughout one period, we had three emer- gency helicopters come in three weeks." Regarding the annual fireworks and bonfire fundraising event "Duncan's Legacy Ignites "Their families would keep returning and were Hope", which commemorates the life of their always incredibly grateful for our efforts," son Duncan who passed from testicular can- Michelle said. cer in October of 2014, they said the event would be moving to a new location, should it As for why they believe they were so success- go ahead this year. ful, Michelle believes it was their diverse skill sets that enabled Michelle to run much of the "We are in early discussions with a new loca- internal business operations, whilst Michael tion," had more of a project management and gen- eral groundskeeping focus. "Watch this space!" Michelle said with- a men acing grin. "Our jobs were so different." The event has been the highlight of the Wa- "We were really reliant on one another, be- ters' time at Wee Jasper, which from humble cause we worked out that after six years, we beginnings in 2016, has gone on to raise didn't really know what the other one actually nearly $80,000. They would like to thank the did," she said. community for all their support over the years. As for the future, the pair expect to return to "We have a huge group of family and friends work in Yass and aim to continue Duncan's that come in to support us," Michelle said. Legacy. A tough few months with bushfires and the "The best thing for us is that we've left the Wee pandemic at the beginning of 2020 exacer- Jasper Reserves in a better place, but we've bated the pairs decision to call it quits. also left on a happy note, and I think ultimately how lucky are we?' Michelle said proudly. "From the 18th of December 2019 to the 31st of May 2020, we had five weeks of trading, The Yass Valley Times would like to thank which really knocked us about," Michelle said. Michelle and Michael Waters for the incredible work they have done to improve and maintain Whilst they both admit it was not easy to walk the Wee Jasper Reserves over the years. away, spending more time with their family and more time in their own home was very at- Max O'Driscoll tractive. "We haven't had a weekend off in six years." Profitable Grazing Breakfast- Yass Branch A collection of the Yass Valley’s farm- expect a successful period over the Edward Storey made sure to empha- would continue to look away from Aus- ing community met to discuss the is- next few months. sise the importance of using pain relief tralian wool should farmers continue to sues affecting the farmers of the when mulesing. ignore their mandatory obligations. region. “Every season will give you challenges on a farm.” “Wool buyers say we’re too late to Other presenters included representa- Feed digestibility, foot rot and worms save mulesing in the long run.” tives from the Yass Local Land Serv- were all expected to be prevalent is- “All we need is an inch of rain in early ice, Integrity Systems Australia, sues for farmers this winter, after a March and I think things are locked in. “No one has the ability to defend the financial and mental health coun- strong season of rain placed farming It can do whatever it likes after that, lifetime welfare benefits of mulesing, if selors, the Yass Valley Weeds Team in a far better position than it was we’re right,” Graham said. there are still people mulesing without and NSW Farmers. twelve months ago. pain relief,” he said. Graham expected that farmers faced a The presentations from the day were Guest speaker Phil Graham declared busy period of work, but a better busy Storey encouraged the farmers in the incredibly insightful and can be found that if farmers were willing to be dili- in comparison to the season prior. program to be proactive rather than on the NSW Young Farmers Facebook gent in their processes and risk man- reactive when it comes to pain relief page. agement strategies, they should President of Wool Producers Australia practices and declared that Europeans Page 3 YASS VALLEY TIMES WEDNESDAY February 24, 2021

Council Pushes Ahead With Civic Precinct Plan plied it. Council has admitted through its own business paper that “There have been many failed attempts over several years to develop and deliver a new Civic Precinct for the Yass Community. A ‘Yass Civic Precinct Masterplan and Feasibility Study’ produced in April 2012, commissioned from Cox Architects (subsequent to a masterplan they developed in 2009) is a good example of previous work that did not progress.”

Advice received by Council shows that the project may cost $20,000,000 with funding sourced from a 20 year loan. According to Council, “To date, APP the firm hired to consult on behalf of Council has undertaken all necessary project planning and associated work to draft and deliver 19 Tenders and Requests for Quotation for a range of specialised disciplines required to deliver DA ready plans and documentation.

APP has produced a project schedule that would see the Precinct completed in mid 2023, should work and funding continue without unforeseen delays. Approval of expendi- ture for the required contractors and consultants through this report will keep the project on track for DA approval in 2021. It is projected that a four month assessment and ap- It appears that it is full steam ahead for the Yass Valley second quarter budget review. proval process for the DA will commence in early August Council Civic Precinct with no less than six reports to go 2021.” before Yass Valley Councillors at tonight’s meeting. Steam According to Council, “Due to commercial in confidence being the crucial word with water issues continuing to considerations, a spreadsheet has been distributed to The business paper states that at the end of the cause debate in the Yass Valley area over recent weeks. Councillors confidentially showing the breakdown of the 2020/21 financial year, Council debt is projected to be The first report deals with the proposed site location, with costs for the three phases to be funded.” $15.4M. The four loans that make up that figure are all for 209 Comur Street recommended as the preferred location previous water and wastewater infrastructure projects. Of by Council. The Third report details advice on the tender submission note is the $8.9M NAB loan for the raising of the Yass for architecture and interior design services for the Civic Dam wall. In 2022, Council will exercise its option to rene- The second report deals with funding for the initial de- Centre, however, this will be discussed in Confidential in gotiate the 6.96% interest rate that will result in reduction sign phase with a recommendation that $672,000 be allo- accordance with Section 10A(2)(di) of the Local in interest expense and improve its debt service cover cated within the 2020/21 budget for the provision of plans Government Act 1993, which permits the meeting to be ratio. and documentation for a new Yass Civic Precinct Devel- closed to the public for business relating to commercial opment Application. Financial implications include that the information of a confidential nature that would if disclosed Continued page 4. funding will come from general revenue as set out in the prejudice the commercial position of the person who sup- www.yassrealestate.com.au “Working Harder For You” YASS84 Church Street,REAL Yass ESTATE 3 Cobark Street, Yass • Hamptons inspired new design by • Timeless double brick Californian bungalow Mellross Homes on a 701 sqm approx • Grand formal entry with feature chandeliers block and ornate architraves • Chic atmosphere with ultimate • Formal separate lounge and dining room NEW LISTING comfort & functionality both offering ambient fireplaces • Sparkling kitchen with gas cooktop, • Updated country style kitchen including gas dishwasher and walk in pantry HOUSE AND LAND cooktop, breakfast hutch & island bench • Central living and dining area opening • Four generous bedrooms and modern to covered alfresco for easy extension entertaining options offering second casual living zone & study • Master suite with electric fireplace, • Effortless entertaining as extensive use of large ensuite with his & hers vanity, glass through to walk in robe seamlessly joins the home out onto the rear • Additional three bedrooms with built covered alfresco in-robes serviced by family bathroom • Detached double garage plus workshop • Ducted reverse cycle air conditioning space and tranquil established gardens and ample storage solutions throughout • Double automatic garage, water tank, driveway, paths, fencing and Price $789,000 landscaping all included Edwina Brown 0429 327 059 Price $799,500 Edwina Brown 0429 327 059 206 Comur Street, Yass Phone 6226 1922 Page 4 YASS VALLEY TIMES WEDNESDAY February 24, 2021 Zac’s Place “The Hangout” tion for a Youth Opportunities Grant,” Maskell-Knight said.

The idea for the program came from responses provided in a Yass Valley Council survey from May 2020, in which young people were asked to identify the activities that they would like to see occurring within their com- munity.

From there, ideas for what could be done were discussed, the partners reg- istered their interest and plans for “The Hangout” event commenced.

Emma Sckrabei, the Training and Em- ployment Manager at Ginninderry said “The Hangout” at Zac’s Place in Yass the decision for Ginninderry to get in- officially begins Thursday the 25th of volved with the initiative was a simple February. one. The program is a collaborative initiative “These young people want people to aiming to provide the youth of the Yass be doing something for them here in Valley with a safe space to hang out, Yass, why don’t we come together and catch up with friends and make new talk about what we can do for them,” ones. she said. “The Hangout” will initially run on one She also said that ‘The Hangout” is Thursday every month up until June particularly aimed at those who lack 2021 as a trial period, and its future be- the experience and support of commu- yond that point will depend on its suc- nity engagement. cess according to Community Planner, “In Yass, young people often play sport Helen Maskell-Knight. and through sport are able to make new friends, but if you don’t play sport “The Working Group would like ‘The there are not a lot of other safe areas Hangout’ to operate more than once a to go out and meet people,” Sckrabei month, but whether it does will depend said. on the young people of Yass Valley seeing value in it,” she said. The event is aimed towards those aged The Yass Child, Youth and Family In- between 12 and 17 and will be a re- teragency Group formed a partnership laxed setting, with barbecued food and with Ginninderry, the Yass Valley Coun- music. cil, Anglicare, Capital Region Commu- nity Services and Zac’s Place for the The first event at Zac’s Place, is limited common cause of bettering the lives of by covid restrictions to a maximum of the Yass youth. 35 people. “Ginninderry is providing seed funding Text Ros today at 0406 379 561 to reg- to get the initiative off the ground, Zac’s ister your interest and save yourself a Place is providing the venue and spot at “The Hangout” on February the skilled staff, Capital Region Community 25th. Services and Anglicare are providing staff and resources, Yass Valley Coun- Max O’Driscoll cil completed an online survey of young people and lodged an applica- From Page 3 The fourth report details Civil and Structural Engi- She said, ““There is no doubt that Council staff can’t back down. I’m not against new offices, I’m not neering Services (Confidential) while the fifth report need appropriate accommodation, and the current against housing our public servants in proper details the Multi Service Engineer Services which offices are cramped, depressing and not fit for conditions, I’m not against a civic building which will also be discussed in confidential, alongside the purpose. The community must be consulted at every stands out for Yass, but there has to be a Quantity Surveying Services which is report number stage of the new precinct. And that means now, be- conversation. Every Council has been given six. fore architectural design begins.” another year in NSW. They shouldn’t be making It may be a bitter pill to swallow for residents who grand plans for the next council. They should be are yet to benefit from an upgraded water treatment “But the timing will have many locals asking ques- waiting until September. Are they going to put works with Council looking at an option costed at tions about why Council can prioritise a new $20 mil- commercial buildings in competition with people who over $31 million. lion office block for itself, when us lowly ratepayers have put their money where their mouth is in this can’t even have a first world water supply? The town and Council could be using their rate paying Yass resident Rebecca Duncan lodged a pro- community will remember this when the Council money to be in competition against them?” posal to see the new precinct closer to the Yass election comes round in September”. River, a position deemed to be a greenfield site with The project's timeline for development approval little need of demolition and in a position the envy of Long term resident Touie Smith was equally serendipitously falls the month prior to the upcoming any public servant in Australia. Something that may unimpressed with what appears to be 6 reports all council elections in September. help Yass Valley Council retain staff, something it detailing approvals needed to see the project come struggles to do like many of its neighbouring country to fruition. He said, “The Council for nearly 30 years council cousins. now have gone about a very slow process of spending so much money on one thing that they Page 5 YASS VALLEY TIMES WEDNESDAY February 24, 2021

Builders Stake Their oneClaim in Hume Street which was 32 blocks.” Mellross Homes Project Manager Jake Manning also said the company had already staked a claim with four sites purchased in the first release.

“We do a bit of everything, affordable to premium, from first homeowners to retirees. We want to be a part of it (Yarrah) because it’s going to bring a lot of people, a lot of work and we want to help build a community.”

Charles Walker from WMD Group spoke to the quality of the Oak Tree Retirement Village and how he believes it will not only complement the master planned community of Yarrah, but also the existing community of Yass.

“Through the delivery of an Oak Tree Retirement Village at Yarrah we see greater choice and opportunity being provided to local residents who want to retain their inde- pendence and social connections for longer”, Jack Walker said.

The Oak Tree Retirement Village ribbon cutting ceremony “The integration of community facilities and walkways Managing Director of the Oak Tree Group Mark Bindon, on Tuesday the 16th of February attracted many of the along with the interest in having high quality homes prom- described the project in a regional community like Yass as builders who have already purchased blocks of land as ises to be a warm and welcoming future suburb of Yass,” a specialty, with 35 Oak Tree Retirement Villages already part of the first stage of development of the new Yarrah she said. spread through regional Australia. Estate. General Manager of Achieve Homes Philipp Hopwood, “Oak Tree’s objective is very simple, it’s to keep senior WMD Group Holdings Project Manager Jack Walker ex- has locked in nine blocks in the first stage, and gave some Australians in the communities they want to remain in.” pressed his gratitude for the people who have supported advice to potential buyers. the project so far. “We can cater to a large variety of people whether that be “Our intention is to maximise quality of life,” he said. young families or those nearing a retirement age.” “I’d like to thank every builder and every purchaser that’s Andrew Curlewis from Yass Valley Property supported the come on board, that’s bought into the vision and secured Roads, footpaths, storm water and parks are all yet to be news of a retirement village in the Yass Valley. a block,” he said. built as part of the master-planned roll out of infrastruc- ture. “There's nothing like that in town currently, so for that gen- Regal Homes, Mellross Homes, Achieve Homes, Watt “This is actually the right time to be purchasing, because it eration it’ll be a fantastic product,” he said. Constructions and DJ Homes are among the purchasers gives us the time to prepare,” added Mr Hopwood. of the 36 blocks that have been sold already in Yarrah, In the last eight days, there have been six further sales with Managing Director of Regal Homes, Natasha Stoka Building in Yarrah will continue Mellross Homes estab- advice issued and as blocks continue to be purchased, it offering her perspective. lished position as a significant home construction com- will likely not be long before we begin to see the plans for “We have purchased five blocks already and we share the pany in Yass Valley. Yarrah turn into a reality. vision of the Walkers, to create a beautiful community fo- cused estate.” “Darren Mellross has been working in Yass and doing sub- Max O’Driscoll divisions for at least ten years now and we’ve just finished Yass Valley Times “Devastated” by solar Classifieds farm approval [email protected] or phone 0413 763 216 Position Vacant Public Notice Position Vacant HALL ASSOCIATION INC. Casual Receptionist/Telephonist ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING for our medical practice. THURSDAY 18TH MARCH 2021 Please contact Ms Kaylene Bell (Practice The Bowning Hall committee would like to Manager) at Atherfield Medical invite the Bowning Community to attend the Service on (02) 62 261 888 Annual General Meeting of the Association to for further details and/or a be held at the Bowning Hall, 3 Short Street Position Description. Bowning on Thursday 18th March 2021 The position is a casual position, to assist commencing at 5pm. Please come and be a when permanent staff are on personal and/or part of this committee and support in the annual leave. general running and maintenance of this Application to be sent to valuable asset in our community. Ms Kaylene Bell via email Bowning Hall Committee [email protected] via post PO Box 118, Yass NSW 2582, or by hand. Advertise in the Applications close at COB Monday 1st March 2021 Classifieds Award: Health Professionals & Peter and Geanean Gillet with grandson ect, identified damage to local biodiver- Support Services enoughCont aelectricityct Yass to V poweralley 37,000Times to Matthew comtemplate life living next to sity and appearance as some of their (Support Services Employee) homes. place your ad. a 120m solar facility. major contentions to its construction. Speaking at a recent public hearing, After nearly a three-year fight from the The main concern however according to community, the NSW Independent Plan- Sutton and District Community Associa- ning Commission has conditionally ap- tion President Mark Burgess, is the extra “This is already an issue in our area, and Nicole Brewer, Director of Energy As- proved plans for a 120 million dollar traffic that the project will create for Sut- with putting another 76 of these trucks sessments with the NSW Dep artment of 100-megawatt solar farm to be con- ton, which already struggles with heavy- per day on the road, it will create a sig- Planning, Industry & Environment, de- structed seven kilometres northwest of vehicle traffic at its current level, due to nificant safety issue.” scribed the project as "large scale" with the village of Sutton. its small causeway and winding roads. The Springdale Solar Farm Project is ex- around 260,000 solar panels at four Residents of Sutton and other nearby “All of the development traffic is pro- pected to contribute 100 megawatts of metres high and a substation. areas affected by the prospective proj- posed to go through the village itself.” energy to the National Electricity Market, Continued page 11 Page 6 YASS VALLEY TIMES WEDNESDAY February 24, 2021 Rotary Markets Fresh fruit and vegetables, bread, honey and wine “All we need now is for the general public to come were just some of what was on offer at the Yass through the door, and they’re beginning to come Community Market on Saturday. back,” he said. In what was the third market in Yass since being shut down in March last year due to coronavirus, Turner emphasised the importance of supporting the Community Market and offered his reasons for why people should look forward to it.

“We have everything here that represents the Yass Valley, and you can get it here without having to go to Canberra and spending big money,” he said.

Director of Community Service Projects and Chair of the Community Market Committee, Amanda Saunders echoed Turner’s sentiments about the Community Market.

“It’s an opportunity for the community to purchase and view locally made products.”

“It’s a buzzing atmosphere and with beautiful weather, it’s a great day to be out in Yass!” she said.

The Yass Community Market returns on March 6, don’t miss out on what is a great opportunity to pur- Founder Kim Turner said it was great to see the chase local and support the community of the Yass Yass Community Market back up and running. Valley. Max O’Driscoll

”We’re back up to around 20 stalls now, so there’s Common Sense plenty for people to buy.” Approach Needed For Vaccine Rollout

Frontline health workers in Eden-Monaro no longer face an 11-hour drive to receive the Pfizer vaccine.

Last week I was contacted by doctors and nurses in the electorate who were facing two days off work and time away from their patients and loved ones in order to take Yass Museum Reopening part in phase 1a of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout. Health workers were told they needed to travel to Liverpool Hospital in south west Sydney to receive their jab, poten- tially leaving hospital and local GP clinics short staffed – a situation that was simple unworkable and unfair.

I met with the Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt on Thurs- day to express my deep concern and that of our local health professionals – and I thank the Minister for his time. I am pleased to report that Liverpool Hospital vaccinators will now travel to Southern to vaccinate health staff.

This is a common-sense solution for frontline workers who have carried the weight of bushfires and the pandemic for over 12 months now.

Thank you to local health leaders who raised this issue with Yass Museum is very pleased sance Man of Yass”. Visitors the Visitors me – you know your community and what’s needed. to announce they are open as can also enjoy displays relating Information Centre in Comur The people of Eden-Monaro have risen to the challenges of of last Sunday 21st February to the Street, will be open every the last 18 months with dignity and a deep commitment to after a long break. famous explorer Hamilton Sunday 10.00am to 4.00pm. each other. The current feature exhibition Hume, another notable Entry fee: Adults $5.00 Children at the museum citizen of Yass, and the model free. Covid safe regulations The rollout of the vaccine will help our resolve and bolster celebrates the life and work of recreation of colonial Comur apply to all our dedication to see this through and continue to build a an exceptional Yass Street and much more. visitors. strong renewal. citizen, “A J Shearsby, Renais- The Museum, located next to Page 7 YASS VALLEY TIMES WEDNESDAY February 24, 2021 Missing us on Facebook?

As a newspaper established in 2020 Mark Zuckerberg's social media giant's during Covid, our business model has al- shock action is proof of just why it is im- ways had quality news at the heart of portant to have diverse, independent both our print and digital editions. and locally run news services. Our readers can enjoy us in traditional It also demonstrates why local business, print or the same newspaper as a paid council, state and federal governments digital subscription with pages that flip should be spending their advertising dol- just like the paper edition as you read on lars with local, independent media and your computer, tab let, or phone. Se- not Facebook. lected stories and breaking news involv- As an editor in charge of hardworking, ing the safety of our community will university-qualified journalists, it con- always appear free on our website cerns me that this action has indirectly www.yassvalleytimes.com.au allowed fake or inferior news to be shared. In contrast, legitimate local Please sign up for a digital subscription news services that pay local journalists to ensure you don’t miss out on your and support local communities have local news no matter where you are. been banned. With almost 100,000 hits to our website I see keeping our locally run, independ- since June 2020, the Yass Valley Times ent newspaper alive and profitable as has directed readers to our site using so- more critical than ever, with local adver- Late last week, the global juggernaut block all conten t ever posted to the Yass cial media platfor ms Twitter, Instagram, tisin g vital to that healthy continuation. Facebook flexed its proverbial muscle in Valley Times Facebook page was still ap- and Facebook with more than 5000 fol- So please accept this pearl of wisdom. If response to the Australian Federal Gov- plied with no warning. lowers. you have an event, fete, garage sale or ernment's proposed Media Bargaining position open, consider putting a notice Code, blocking all content and sharing The Yass Valley Times and most other The impacts on communication within in our affordable classifieds! If you do content from Australian News Media newspapers, radio and television sta- our Yass Valley community were dis- use Facebook, rather than buy an ad sites. tions across the nation were banned, cussed nationally during an interview on from Zuckerberg, buy a tray of meat with some unexpected targets caught ABC Television. from your local butcher or a basket of lo- The action came in swift retaliation as up, such as government health sites and cally made goods from the markets and the Code will force the social media businesses. Facebook's actions are particularly ask people to 'like and share' your post giant to pay mass media companies for galling for regional and rural communi- for a chance to win. You will be support- their content when shared to the digital Our 5000+ social media followers now ties where distances between towns and ing a local business and keeping your media platform. The Yass Valley Times see no home page photo and a blank villages can be vast and local media dig- money local. does not meet the threshold of revenue post column with a statement "No Posts ital sites become an essential source of to be considered for any financial gain Yet" d espite the regular feed of posts we relevant fact-chec ked information about Jasmin Jones under the Federal Government's Media have provided our community with for local services, time-sensitive events, and Editor Bargaining Code, yet the algorithm to free. opportunities.

Council Reannounces Funding B&G Plumbing and HardwareH Yass Valley Council has received an extra first step in re-establishing an annual re- • Pump sales, installation, nstallation, repairs $1,020,648 under an extension of the Aus- sheeting program for the unsealed net- tralian Government's Local Roads and work." • Filtration experts erts for Yass mains Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program, or tank water which will be spent on the gravel re-sheet- Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain, • Steel and poly y water tank sales ing of unsealed roads throughout the Local said country people rely on the local road Government Area. network more than anyone so she has no • Slow combust tion heating doubt news of these upgrades will be well • Plumbing supplies plies – Toilets, The LRCI Program aims to assist a com- received. vanities & fittings ngs munity-led economic recovery from the ef- • Handtools fects of the COVID-19 pandemic on a local "I will continue to lobby for more funds and level through procurement, jobs creation support the work of Yass Valley Council for 68 Comur St, Yass • Pool chemicals s and supporting small business. the betterment of our community," she • Domestic and rural Tapware continued. 6226 1151 Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCor- bandgyass.com.au • Poly, PVC and copper pipe by mack announced the additional boost in The work is programmed to commence in the metre October 2020, identifying regional Aus- April 2021 and continue throughout the Supporting YYassass • General camp ing supplies tralia as having a vital role to play in build- year, with a set completion date of 31 De- for 84 years • Gas refills ing a road to economic recovery. The now cember 2021. $1.5 billion program will continue to sup- port local jobs and businesses and will Various roads throughout the LGA will be boost local economies struggling under the included, however, a firm schedule is yet effects of COVID-19 and will enable coun- to be set. More information will be pro- cils to deliver priority projects with a focus vided on this when it becomes available. on local road and community infrastructure Tank you! upgrades and maintenance. Preliminary list of roads for gravel re- sheeting (in alphabetical order only) Councillors determined at the November meeting to spend the money on the gravel · Back Creek Road re-sheeting of Council's unsealed road net- · Bango Lane work. This allocation of funding will be the · Casey Close first step in re-establishing an annual re- · Connells Lane sheeting program for the rural road net- · Coolalie Road work. · Dicks Creek Road · Dog Trap Road "Gravel re-sheeting of unsealed roads is · Gums Lane an essential requirement to ensure that a · Longrail Gully grading intervention can be effective. The · Lucernvale Road gravel re-sheeting program was sus- · Old Gap Road pended due to the drought and Council · Springrange Road has been trying to play catch up ever · Tallagandra Lane since," said Yass Valley Mayor Rowena · Yass River Road Abbey.

"The allocation of this funding will be the Page 8 YASS VALLEY TIMES WEDNESDAY February 24, 2021

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Most of the injured lizards coming into care have been bit- pesticides and be careful with toxic substances. Be vigi- ten by a dog or cat. If this happens, they will need atten- lant when mowing and working outside. Watching out for lizards tion immediately, as the bites are often fatal. Lizards are As reported last month, Wildcare receives over 600 calls also affected by pesticides and other household sub- Smaller lizards (not the larger goanna) can be picked up each year concerning reptiles. A large majority involve stances, such as adhesives. Lawn mowers are another and moved to a safe area away from danger. They will lizards that have been attacked by dogs and cats or in- source of injury, as well as other gardening tools. And as often hiss at a rescuer, but this is false bravado. Distract jured in other ways in our backyards. Many accidents are we know, they like to sun themselves on the roadways. the animal by waving a hand in front of its nose and with avoidable. They are most active in the summer and then hibernate the other hand firmly grasp the animal behind its neck and (brumate) for the winter. Lizards that come into care dur- over its shoulders, then support its body underneath, keep Lizards don’t look like one’s typical cuddly and lovable ing the autumn often have to be kept in care over winter, it horizontal and move it to a safe place. Another option is creature, but they have a special character. They are fas- as they will not have sufficient food reserves in their bod- to throw a towel over the animal and scoop it up (a towel cinating creatures and are extremely helpful in the garden ies to survive, and injuries can take a long time to heal. is a useful asset to pick up all manner of small wildlife). Do by keeping slugs, snails, insects and even snakes at bay. not pick up a lizard off the road unless it is absolutely safe Lizards are generally harmless – except for the larger There is much we can do to limit the accidental damage to to do so; if possible, let it move across on its own. goanna or monitor – and they are often mistaken for lizards. Dogs and cats will be curious about a lizard, so snakes. In our area we are lucky to see a large variety of please keep this in mind and keep them away from lizards If a lizard is bitten by a domestic animal, or injured in an- lizard, including: common blue tongue, blotched blue when possible. If you want the pleasure of seeing lizards other way, it will invariably need a dose of antibiotics, so tongue, armour-plated shingleback, the splendid bearded sunning themselves on your property it is important to take it to a local Vet – secure it in a cardboard box on a and water dragons, cunningham skinks, the larger threat- take charge of dogs by limiting how far they can roam and tea towel or similar material. Alternatively, contact Wild- ened rosenberg monitor and smaller common skinks. keeping an eye on them – and ideally cats need to be in- care on 62991966 and seek advice. side to prevent them harming wildlife. Avoid the use of Philip Machin for Wildcare Page 9 YASS VALLEY TIMES WEDNESDAY February 24, 2021

Online Subscriptions Available Go to www.yassvalleytimes.com.au Page 10 YASS VALLEY TIMES WEDNESDAY February 24, 2021 Yass High School keeping the community In Touch

Year 11 Construction have been busy ing four steers being Cookies n’ Cream, sata making day. the school for use in Agriculture, Science learning concreting skills by making Salt n’ Pepper, Heracles and Unit. The hard work though has been the and Geography. The weather station is pavers. They have learnt to mix and The older students have been working shearing and our own mullet crew (ap- to be installed on top of the A block screed the concrete ensuring a well-pre- hard and a particular thanks goes out to parently these make them shear faster… building. sented paver. This led to a great out- the year 10 students who have been ) have done a great job shearing. We come for the Ag Plot with the working hard to not only prepare the have found the time to setup two stands construction of a concrete slab for a steers but for starting to help train our in the shed and the team took real own- wash bay for the cattle. newest member so the team. However ership of the job in all aspects. They sometimes it is necessary to bring in completed all aspects of the task with DOVES some extra help and so when Salt n Pep- the year 11 boys taking on the leader- In the past term I have been working per needed some extra encouragement ship role of lead shearers. They even with twelve wonderful high school to be able to move forward, we were managed to walk Mr McDonald through students on s steering committee to cre- forced to enlist the help of Mr. Facer, cat- the shearing of one of the ewes albeit ate a group that will represent all the tle work has never looked so well slowly. NSW’s student body in government. The dressed. The ewes will now start to be prepared first time we all met was on a Zoom call In addition to this we have also started with thirty students as a tester to see who would be best suited for the roles.

Year 7 Tech Mandatory Wood students having a great time in the woodwork room making a fold ing stool, a T-Box and wooden toys.

preparing for the next show, the South for the annual artificial insemination pro- Thirteen were then chosen from this Coast Schoo l Steer Spectacular in gram later in the term by the year 10 group. After being chosen we had four Nowra. For this, two new steers have en- class. This is the focus of the class as full day Zoom meetings where we cre- tered come to school. Another Square they take the ewes through the year to ated the scaffold for the future group. An Meater from Su McClusky and a Red produce next year’s sale rams. enormous amount of discussion took Angus cross Simmental From Glyn and From the “Click go the shears” Agricul- place to make something that is “univer- Ann Williams of Newton-Wood. ture Department sal” whereby all NSW students can be The team will leave on Wednesday next represented in some way. On Tuesday, week for the show day on Thursday. And the 9th we all met in person for the first we wish them the best of luck. time to finalise the document and pres- P & C ent to Secretary Mark Scott over Zoom. On Wednesday, the 10th we presented Weather to the Minister of Education in NSW, Sarah Mit chell. She certified this group Out on Station which we named Department of Student Show At the end of last year, Yass High School Voices in Education and Schools or the Farm was handed a cheque for a new weather DOVES for short. So, if you have any in- Team The start to the year has been hectic station for the Ag Farm by the Yass High terest in representing students in gov- The Show Team has started the year this year on the farm. The rain over the School P&C Association. The cheque has ernment please look out for the chance running. We are heading to Canberra holidays has meant there is an abun- allowed the school to purchase a Van- to apply and become a future DOVES Royal Cattle Show next week and so it is dance of vegetables particularly the tage Pro Weather station. This weather member. all hands-on deck to have the cattle Stage 5 tomato garden. These have station will provide information which ready after the long break. We are tak- been picked and frozen awaiting pas- can be directly accessed by students in By Corinne Green

FEBRUARY is VACCINATION AWARENESS MONTH Page 11 YASS VALLEY TIMES WEDNESDAY February 24, 2021

The article published in the Yass Valley Times onLetter 14 would cost around To $5m perThe kilometre. In additionEditor there agreement with the developer could include a contribu- Feb 2021 was titled “No Solar without Bypass”; a head- would be a bridge over Mclaughlin’s Creek and inter- tion to the bypass – how will Council determine what ing designed in true media style to be controversial. sections and realignments of the north and south ac- this should be? But this issue is not about the proposed solar farm, or cess roads into the village, as well as land acquisition Council has not yet identified the Sutton bypass as a indeed any individual development. It is about the in- costs. project in its operational planning, despite adopting the cremental changes which have led to a vast increase in Clearly it would be unfair on the other residents of Yass Sutton Master Plan in 2017. traff ic, and in particular heavy vehicle traffic, through Council to include a project of this scale in the Shire- Preparation of preliminary plans for the bypass is re- Sutton Village. Our Community Association now lists wide development contributions plan. Neither would it quired so Council can: the bypass as the number one issue for the Village. be fair on people undertaking developments elsewhere • Identify the route required for the bypass Council has failed to progress this issue or make any which do not contribute to the traffic issues in Sutton. • Commence processes to secure the route for move toward addressing the real needs of the village the bypass community. For these reasons a separate specific development • Develop a cost estimate for the project In the YVT article Council says there is already a con- contributions plan should be prepared for the Sutton • Determine a reasonable contribution rate for tributions plan. We are aware that Council adopted a bypass and this should apply to any traffic generating new traffic generating development Shire-wide Development Contributions Plan in 2019. development which would generate traffic through Sut- • Identify the need for the project in future This plan lists projects to a total value of just over ton to access Canberra or Queanbeyan. budget and funding submissions to State and Federal $12m. At least this would capture the additional developments governments. approved after the date this special contribution plan Relevantly, this contributions plan does not include the was adopted. We have already missed several signifi- A Sutton district resident and retired senior Police offi- Sutton bypass. cant traffic generating developments relevant to the cer recently noted “it’s only good luck that we haven’t Also this plan does not capture subdivisions where the issue – these include the subdivisions north and south had something serious happen and if (hopefully not value of “works” associated with the subdivision is less of amongst others. when) it does, it will change the village atmosphere for than $100,000 – which would be most small scale sub- Naturally “existing” traffic won’t be captured by this years, more particularly if it’s a local.” divisions. I recall in recent years Council reduced the plan, and that proportion of the traffic will need to be There are real concerns about traffic issues in Sutton lot size requirements for rural lands meaning many funded as for other existing traffic impacts – by State Village; Council needs to work with the community to more dwelling entitlements were created. These subdi- and Federal road programs. address these. visions are traffic generating developments with the po- With regard to the comments about the development We all recognise that delivering a project of the scale of tential to increase traffic through Sutton Village. contribution process applying to State significant devel- the required bypass will take many years to realise. We Council also has a Heavy Haulage Contributions Plan opments and Council’s policy on Community Enhance- need to start working toward this goal now. however this does not appear to relate to incremental ment Funds, we note that this policy specifically (at traffic generating developments. clause 4.4) excludes “road works relating to the direct Alistair Henchman The length of a bypass around Sutton would be ap- impact of the proposed development”. Sutton resident and grandparent proximately 1.6 kms. A road like the Sutton bypass If indeed, despite Council’s policy, a voluntary planning

However, there were no requirements fected, should've been enough to stop environmental performance; outline how enforced regarding the creation of traf- the project or reduce it in size,” he said. the land can be returned to its current fic, a decision Burgess could not believe use following decommissioning and re- From"The company's saidPage that the project 5 will was accepted after view ing the transport In a media statement the Commission habilitation of the site; require regular operate for around 35 years, but the pro- plans put forward by the developers. stated that it found on balance, “…the monitoring and reporting; and provide posed conditions allow that as long as “I don’t see how anyone can sign off on impacts are acceptable and capable of for the ongoing environmental manage- the development footprint and height re- a traffic management plan, being confi- being appropriately mitigated through ment of the development.” main the same, infrastructure could be dent that they are not endangering the the measures required under the condi- replaced or upgraded to take account of safety of every road user that uses that tions of consent impos ed by the Com- The Commission’s Statement of more efficient technology. In this case, road.” mission.” Reasons for Decision is available here: the development footprint is 185 https://www.ipcn.nsw.gov.au/projects/2 hectares...” “This is the cheapest and laziest op- Its Statement of Reasons for Decisions 020/11/springdale-solar-farm-ssd-8703 tion,” Burgess said in dismay. reads “The Commission is of the view Wit h road safety an issue that concerns Developed and operated by global re- Sutton resident and direct neighbour to that the Project is in the public interest.” all residents of the Yass Valley, let us newable energy company RES, the facil- the solar development Peter Gillett was It added, “The Commission has deter- hope that the RES developers will take ity will be required to meet various emotional in response to discovering the mined that the Application should be every precaution in protecting the safety vegetation screening requirements, as plans were approved. granted consent subject to conditions of road users in Sutton. well as ensuring the protection of the “Devastated.” which have been designed to: prevent, habitat for the region's endangered minimise and/or offset adverse environ- Max O’Driscoll species such as Golden Sun Moth, Su- “The number of residents in close prox- mental impacts; set standards and per- perb Parrot and Legless Lizard. imity, who are going to be severely af- formance measures for acceptable

Yarrah These blocks are selling like hot cakes! 6 sales in the last week! Various lot sizes and prices starting at $146,000 Yarrah is the ONLY master planned subdivision in Yass. Approximately half are sold. Extensive river frontage, and covenants to protect your investment.

Yarrah is situated 1.4km North West of Yass CBD, presenting residents with a leisurely 5-10 minute bike ride, 15- 20 minute walk along the river corridor or 2 minute car trip to the centre of Yass CBD. As part of Yass, Yarrah has direct access to a vast range of services and facilities already available including hospital, schools, professional services, local shops, major supermarkets, the local swimming pool, sports facilities including tennis courts, golf course, ovals and more. Yarrah is located a short 30-40 minute drive Northwest of & Belconnen, Canberra and 3 hours’ drive South West of Sydney, 5 hours North East of Melbourne. Page 12 YASS VALLEY TIMES WEDNESDAY February 24, 2021

Sixty Second Swirl Wine of the Week

Not far off the and nestled neatly amongst the rolling hills of the Springrange, is Poachers Pantry. The Smokehouse Restaurant is a gourmet destination of the region and is a hugely popular place on the weekends. While Poachers was originally established to produce quality smoked meats to local chefs, they also crank out a range of quality cool climate wines. This week’s “swirl” is the Poachers Riesling 2019.

This Riesling is pale straw in colour with flashes of green from within. The swirl reveals aromas of freshly squeezed lemons and limes with hints of citrus blossom. The palate is loaded with ripe citrus flavours and together with lovely crisp but not searing acidity, produce a long and lingering finish.

A ripping “Rizza” to enjoy with freshly grilled south coast snapper fillet with a tangy garden salad, or with salt and pepper prawns. I bought my bottle from the cellar door for $29, but is also available online at https://www.poacherspantry.com.au/

Left: Will Bruce and daughter Edie. The small family business (Poachers), started over 25 years ago, has been built around their love of good food and sharing with family and friends. From simple beginnings as an artisan smokehouse, they have grown to include the Smokehouse Restaurant, the Wily Trout Vineyard, farm shop, cellar door, country wedding and event destination.

Innovations in Aussie Wine Brent Lello Penfolds had worked out that red grapes today on the shelves of bottle-o’s. Blown- whether quality cork or screwcap is bet- Wine has been consumed in various from warmer climates, like the Barossa up empty bladders make great pillows ter for the maturation of wine in the bot- parts of the world for thousands of years Valley, had relatively high pH levels and too if you are ever caught short. tle, but winemakers and wine drinkers and here in Australia since the early low levels of acid. This meant that the A key innovation more recently has been alike have voted in dramatic support for days of European settlement. I can’t wine was prone to spoiling from rampant the introduction of the screwcap bottle the screwcap. imagine the quality of the wine back in bacteria. They then worked to control closure. the day, but it certainly would not have acid levels early in the winemaking life- Cheers! been an itch or a scratch on today’s deli- cycle and this in turn led to an uptick in For years, winemakers and wine cious offerings, and it was most likely the quality of wine produced. drinkers alike grew increasingly frus- consumed primarily for its ability to in- I’m sure you’ve heard about or even trated with the quality of cork closures. toxicate. The quality of wine today is in drank wine from a “Bag in the Box”. This Dodgy corks often led to dicey wines and direct proportion to the enjoyment we innovation to Australia’s wine culture if you’ve ever had a wine struck down by get from drinking it and wine drinkers in was first patented over fifty years ago by “cork taint” you would have experienced Australia owe a lot to the innovations in- an Aussie winemaker called Thomas An- the ensuing aromas of wet dog and troduced over the years to the produc- gove. It was a couple of years later mouldy hessian bags. In the late 1990’s, tion and packaging of wine. though that the “cask” was modernised trials of the screwcap had proven them with a self-sealing “tap”, allowing the to be better at ensuring the freshness, Australian winemakers and wine scien- wine to be poured and then automati- quality and reliability of the wine. The tists led the way in the mid 1900’s with cally re-sealed, protecting the wine from uptake in the use of the screwcaps was innovative scientific measures that dra- exposure to oxygen. The popularity of dramatic and today you’d be hard matically improved the quality and con- cask wines has seemingly waned over pressed to find an Aussie wine that still siste ncy of wine. Ray Beckwith from the decades, but they are still prevalent uses cork. There is still some debate on Page 13 YASS VALLEY TIMES WEDNESDAY February 24, 2021 The Remarkable Geology of Yass District

ing a tertiary education, he became an amateur ge- geological scholarship in the area's fossils. Explor- ologist and palaeontologist. These and other sci- ers Thomas Mitchell, James Calvert and Count ences, as well as photography, became a lifelong Strzelicke to name but a few, are recorded as having passion. He described his discoveries in the Yass more than a passing interest in the strange lime- District as a veritable geological and palaeontologi- stone formations where many fossils were and are cal paradise for collectors. Collectors, even in the still found in various locations. Robert Etheridge, an present time, seek out fossils in the District. eminent geologist and palaeontologist, wrote in 1889 that "along the Murrumbidgee, the limestone Many of Shearsby's discoveries were significant and ridges are crammed with fossils the equal of which I attracted world interest. Concentrations of shells he have never seen". Louisa Atkinson, naturalist, au- discovered became known as "Shearsby's Wallpa- thor and former resident of Cavan Station wrote per – Brachiopods or common shellfish of the De- about fossils found in the Cavan and Taemus areas. vonian Period 360 – 420 million years BCE. Louisa was also a friend of the Reverend William Clarke, who is now regarded as the "Father of Aus- Australia, during the Devonian Period, formed The tralian Geology". She began collecting fossils as Remarkable Geology of the Yass District. The east- early as 1848. ern part of a vast supercontinent, Gondwana. This landmass was closer to the equator than Australia is Many people in the Yass community, who were fas- today and therefore warmer and more tropical, cinated by the extraordinary features, formations which facilitated the formation of coral beds along and composition of the land around them, have con- the seafloor over time. tributed much to our geological and palaeontological understanding of the evolutionary period associated Another supercontinent existed in the northern hemi- with the fossil record of the Yass district. sphere, which was also near the equator. It is esti- mated that the ocean covered about 85% of the Ref. Crighton Brown, Nicola, "Cavan Station", 2019 world during this period. This expansive aquatic en- pp21 – 49. vironment allowed a considerable variety of verte- brae fish to evolve and thereby establish "The Age Valerie Scott of Fishes". Shearsby's scientific approach in docu- menting the many examples of aquatic life from this Valerie Scott is a Yass local. She joined the Yass Valerie Scott - contributor writer from the Yass period cemented his reputation both here in Aus- Valley Writers about eight years ago. Valerie enjoys Writer's Club. tralia and abroad. researching and writing about Australia. Alfred Shearsby came to live in the Yass Valley in 1898, and many present residents in the District However, other people who settled in the Yass Dis- know about his scientific pursuits. Despite not hav- trict during colonial times showed much interest and Sunday 28th February in preparation is that the sport is open to everyone, for our first competitions. all ages, genders and abilities. The vi- Our CRRL Wheelchair Competition Wheelchair sion of Canberra Region Wheelchair Coordinator, Jen Pilosio, would be We are starting our local wheelchair Rugby League (CRWRL) is to be great to talk to. Her phone number is Rugby League rugby league competitions this Au- recognised as an inclusive sport for all 0459 965 524. Canberra Region Rugby League tumn and Spring season. The great communities and to provide a pathway (CRRL) is holding a Wheelchair thing about wheelchair Rugby League for participants to represent their state. Rugby League Come and Try Day this Yass Valley Times Trades

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For all your hire needs! Frames, candles and room sprays, essential oils, Eco products, Offering a wide range of outdoor commercial photo printing, various gifts and more. equipment and tools, parts and servicing, Lay-bys and Gift Voucher available. and party and sound equipment         330 Comur St, Yass email:[email protected]    website:www.yvh.com.au Call Suz 0449 742 473 to secure your spot today. Page 14 YASS VALLEY TIMES WEDNESDAY February 24, 2021

Saleyards Report - averageSELX from 875c to 935c/kg cwt. Extra heavy lambs sold from $218 to $266/head. Merino trades reached $190/head or 780c/kg cwt on ave rage. The heavy hoggets reached $220/head. First cross ewe hoggets sold to $350/head to a restocker.

Mutton numbers were similar and the quality was mixed. Prices were firm to $5/head dearer on aver- age. The better covered medium weight ewes sold from $138 to $173/head. Heavy crossbred ewes sold from $200 to $258 and Merino wethers made from $165 to $242/head.

Market Report: MLA's National Livestock Reporting Service.

SELX Market Report Prime Cattle – 18 February 2021 Total Yarding: 488 Cattle numbers were similar and the quality was good. Yearlings made up the bulk with only a limited supply of grown cattle and 81 mainly heavy cows. There were a couple of pens of weaners which sold to restocking interests. Trade cattle were limited with feeders and restockers buy- ing most of the young cattle. Prices were firm across most young cattle but some of the crossbred steers and heifers were slightly cheaper due to the ab- sences of a feeder order. There was a larger re- were best supplied and there was a good run of light stocking gallery. Weaner steers sold to 565c and Prime Sheep & Lamb – store lambs. Extra heavy weights were limited. The heifers made to 482c/kg. Medium weight feeder market sold to a stronger trend. steers averaged 460c and heavy weights sold from 17 February 2021 390c to 454c/kg. Feeder heifers were firm and Store lambs were $8 dearer selling from $135 to medium weights sold from 409c to 457c with the $182/head. Medium and heavy trade lambs were $2 heavy weights making from 380c to 430c/kg. The Total Yarding: 9,989 to $3 dearer on limited numbers to processors and few trade cattle reached 447c/kg. Grown steers made from $175 to $204/head to average from 880c lifted 8c and heavy bullocks 5c and sold from 348c Lamb numbers eased slightly for a mixed quality of- to 900c/kg cwt. The heavy lambs were in demand to 388c/kg. Cows were fully firm with most making fering. Some lambs are looking dry in the wool and and the best presented and jumped $11 to from 285c to 305c/kg. Market Report: MLA's Na- lacking the desired cover. Trade and heavy lambs $14/head. Prices ranged from $199 to $229/head to tional Livestock Reporting Service.

Yass High swimming carnival records smashed Riley Gibbs set a new record in the 15 years boys 100m Freestyle as well.

A big congratulations to Hovell on their win at the carnival with 1490 points. Hume were second on 1437 followed by Oxley with 1105 then Sturt with 1037. Organisation for the Zone carnival which will be held at the Queanbeyan Pool on Wednesday 24th February is in full swing. The Regional carnival will be held at Dapto Pool on Tuesday 9th March. A very special mention to a few wonderful partici- pants on the day.

Brody Wykes, Isabelle Frean, Oliver Frean, Harrison Shanahan, Chester Durant, Kayla Mather, Imogen Bradley, Lilly Boulding, Ella Widows, Daytona South- well, Bronte Faser, Xavier Torrisi, John Bradley, Mackenzie Ironside, Bethany Gordon and Eriu Ford. Thank you for the excellent contribution you made to the carnival along with everyone else who got in the water and had a go.

In other school sports news, a big congratulations to young Lachlan Penfold in Year 7 who has gained selection in the South Coast U15 tennis team after trialing well in Wollongong last week. Lachlan is the Our annual swimming carnival was held on Wednes- We had a number of records broken throughout the first boy from Yass High to represent Sth Coast in day February 10th at the Yass Pool. It was a great day with Liana Deery’s swim in the 200IM on Tues- U15s tennis and we wish him all the best in the day with many outstanding performances. A big day resulting in her smashing the existing record by NSWCHS championships next month. thank you to the Year 12 students for their excellent over 10 seconds. She continued her impressive participation and the delicious food they prepared for form with record breaking swims in the 13yrs 50m Congratulations also to Oscar Knight who has made staff and students. breaststroke, 50m backstroke and 50m butterfly. it through to the final trials for the South Coast Open Lara McClelland also swam under the record in the Boys Cricket team. Oscar will now travel to Wollon- The participation by our students was very pleasing, 200IM and 50m backstroke whilst finishing 2nd. gong in September for the final trial. in particular the number of younger students who YHS got in and had a go simply to gain points for their re- Felicity Shannon broke records in the 14years girls spective houses. 100m Freestyle, 50m Freestyle and 50m Back- stroke. Page 15 YASS VALLEY TIMES WEDNESDAY February 24, 2021 Cricket Heads Into Finals

In A-Grade cricket the Bowning Buffalos were at home and won the toss against Gundaroo and elected to bat first. Andrew Swaffield top scored for the Buffs with 33 runs but the Goats were too good and M. Gallagher top scored for Gundaroo with 40 runs and the loss of only two wickets the Goats won with 2/83 and will play Dalton next Saturday in the sudden death semi-final.

In the other A-Grade Match the Yass Golf Club were too good for Dalton Dingos and the Golfie made 105 runs, Dalton were bowled out for 92. Josh Payton top scored for the Golfie with 39 runs and Craig Irwin took 5 wickets. This will see the Golf Club take on Boorowa Cricket Club in the top of table semi- final. Bowning are now out of the running for the 20/21 season.

Few results are to hand for B-Grade Cricket, how- ever the Harden Bowling Club side forfeited to Harden’s Hornets which hands the Hornets the right to host the major semi-final against the Yass Golf Club Taipans at Doolan Oval, Harden.

The Boorowa Gators finished in third spot on the B- Grade table followed by the Bookham Bulls.

The Yass Picnic Race Committee has madePicnic the diffi- sure we areRaces not being reckless byCalled bringing a large Offcommunity together, it is the health and safety of cult decision to call off the 2021 February meeting. A numbers of racegoers from NSW, Vic and elsewhere everyone that is paramount!” spokesperson said, “It is with a heavy heart that we, into the community. The races themselves have been moved to Goul- as a club, have to announce the cancellation of the We are a small volunteer run club, and with the ex- burn for the same day with the committee stating, 2021 Yass picnic races. This is due to a high num- pected number could not have been able to enforce “Thank you to Goulburn race club and Racing NSW ber of community concerns and a majority vote restrictions safely on the day. for taking this on so quickly with such late notice. within our committee. It is in our best interests to en- As much as we were looking forward to bringing our

How Green is Yass Valley? Landscaping and erection of sight screens in the past couple of months together with major works to the Club- house have resulted in the YLTC be- coming a much more attractive and vibrant venue for tennis enthusiasts. In addition, community groups and mem- bers of the public may now be more inclined to hire the well - equipped fa- cility for meetings and other events.

The YLTC will also be working towards offering women the opportunity to “Pick up your Racquet” sessions dur- ing the week, commencing in late How wonderful it is to see a touch of March. These sessions will aim to green around our valley, and to add to bring back to tennis those women who the green landscape we have a glis- are a little apprehensive of playing in a tening new green roof on the YLTC more formal setting but would enjoy clubhouse in town. It has taken some “having a go” and reigniting their once time to complete this project due loved sporting activity. Information re- COVID-19 and its impact on so many garding these sessions will be adver- aspects of Yass and society generally. tised in the media and on YLTC However it is now finished. In addition, Facebook. in a couple of weeks we will see even more upgrades to the YLTC with the The health and social benefits of indi- clubhouse being treated to a fresh viduals and communities being in- coat of paint inside and out. These volved in sport/tennis cannot be projects will enable the YLTC club to underestimated. Once on the court achieve its goal of returning to the everyday thoughts disappear and pure major focal point in town for good ten- joy takes over... so come and visit us nis and social activities. on a Saturday or during our upcoming weekday sessions at YLTC. You can The new clubhouse colourbond roof contact Michele Whitters on and the painting project have been 0428302909 or Kerry England on made possible through the 2020 NSW 0407750911. Community Building Partnerships pro- gram and supported by our MP Wendy Tuckerman, for which the club mem- bership is very appreciative. Page 16 YASS VALLEY TIMES WEDNESDAY February 17, 2021 Yass Valley Times Magpies Rugby League Nines

Walker Park hosted the Yass Nines tournament on from other Clubs, so they tried hard but did not fare Lisa Wylie added; “We didn’t really attract enough Saturday with five teams participating. One team so well.” teams to offer prize money for the winners, just a from the St. George area in Sydney known as Magpies Coach Hardy was reluctant to incur injuries general round robin. One feature was that the Syd- “Renown” played strongly against two Magpies to his players and ordered a halt to final play in the ney team stayed in Yass and supported our Sol- sides, Gungahlin and the Burrangong Bears. warm weather of the second half. Kick-off for the dier’s Club which was good to see.” Magpies secretary Lisa Wylie said; “Although it was Canberra Raiders Cup is scheduled for the weekend The Magpies are likely to have a bye in Round 1 for quite hot during Saturday, all teams had a good hit- of 10/11 April for the men’s teams with the women’s 2021, the CRRL are still tinkering with the draw and out and Gungahlin finished on top of the ladder, our competition starting later. The magpies Under 19’s there will be a brand new team to represent the City own teams had some good wins. Unfortunately, Bur- team is still short of numbers and looking for play- of Goulburn in 2021. rangong were short of players and had to borrow ers. COUNTRY TYRES YASSYASS Local Family Owned & Op perated  TyrTyres  Wheels  Batteries  Whee el Alignments  On-Site i Service i  Expert Advice d i  Pick-Up and Drop-Off Availablev  Price Match on all Competitors Products

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