ISSUE BRANXTON GRETA VINEYARDS 515 Keep your thebranxtonnews.com.au/ business in town and you keep your town in business!!!! ...for your enjoyment Serving the local community since 1997

All the local WEDNESDAY news since 1997 M: 0414 757 826 “Your paper of choice” 4 March 2020

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The New Year to deliver a new era for the Central Hunter Business Chamber and for Branxton/Greta

Huntlee New Town.” In addition to the above the 2020 is to see a new era for the Central Hunter Business Chamber and for The Chamber executive has recently met with Chamber has under consideration; Branxton/Greta. Cessnock City Council and can confirm that * An expression of interest Recent appointments to the new board has there was genuine interest expressed by those from a potential new bought to the table relevant business, media representing the Council in supporting operator from outside and political skills which will prove projects to improve lifestyle and business the region for an art/ invaluable as the Chamber builds the program outcomes. crafts and new café to rejuvenate the Branxton & Greta business “We must however be aware that any facility in Branxton environment for the greater good of all improvements to our town require funding * An opportunity to set up residents & business. and we also confirm that some positive steps and operate a regional The Chamber strategy is best expressed in its have been taken by Council to obtain funding mining and agriculture Mission Statement…………. from various State Government programs,” community museum in “To create a better everyday life for the said Chamber President Brett Wild. the Branxton town citizens of Branxton, Greta, North Rothbury & Items discussed for support included:- centre Huntlee New Town by working with * The Branxton to Greta Cycleway projects The Central Hunter Business business, Government and major stakeholders * An upgrade to the Branxton RV Park Chamber is made up of local to inspire and implement solutions for facilities business owners and individuals an improved trading environment, * Upgrade to the Branxton Rotunda that seek to advance and promote infrastructure and stronger economic growth * Provision of appropriate tourism signage the economic and social benefits for Branxton, Greta, North Rothbury & for the Branxton RV Park of the area. The support and input from those members are essential to the preservation of Branxton & Greta’s economic future. “Members must be prepared to work for the advancement of the area,” said Brett Wild. The chamber and its members have been very successful in achieving a number of local benefits such as replacement bus 10 Dalwood Road, East Branxton shelters in Greta and the new construction of the Branxton Shelters opposite Miller Park, new footpaths and the current new Ongoing Chamber President Brett Wild with Cessnock Mayor Bob Pynsent at the 2020 works at Branxton Oval that are Australian Day ceremony. Brett is holding an Community Award received for staging the Dr T Sasi Sasitharan all through continued discussions commemorative 80th anniversary of the establishment of the Greta Army Camp (in 1939) MBBS, AMC, DCH (Syd), FRACGP with the council and others. and the 70th Anniversary of the site becoming a migrant camp in November 2019. “The Constitution, new Board Offering cosmetic/anti wrinkle therapy and Mission Statement, all witness to people locally, however in 2020 membership is not automatic. Opening Hours a new and revitalized sense of and 2021 The Chamber & Board’s If you wish to join the chamber Monday - Friday 8.00 am - 5.30 pm purpose,” said Brett focus will be solely on economic please email “Assisting in lobbying local, state growth and working with [email protected] To make appointments please call and federal government for grants Government to ensure the best All enquiries should be made by Ph. 02 4938 3366 Online appointments available through Hotdoc website and subsidies and having good outcomes for the Branxton, Greta email addressed to the secretary Fax 02 4938 3322 working relationships with & Huntlee business owners and ______Cessnock City Council have been their communities. and will continue to be at the ______Membership in the Chamber is forefront of all we do,” said Brett open to all businesses in our Mixed billing practice “In the past we have conducted and precinct subject to submission of a Children under 16, pension/health care/DVA card holders/Aboriginal or delivered some great community completed application for Torres Strait Islander bulk billed events that have brought great joy membership – please be aware , THE NEWS | No. 515 | Wednesday 4 Mar 2020 ͽ 2

Proposed Councillor developer ban

agents being elected to ban property developers mooted changes are nothing Scott Farlow, Parliamentary and community trust in Council level with the NSW councils - in time and real estate agents from but a desperate publicity Secretary Catherine local government.” groups of persons known as for the forthcoming Local being elected to NSW stunt from a government Cusack, Parliamentary Clayton Barr MP, State developers or real estate government elections. councils. with zero conviction,” he Secretary Natasha Maclaren Member for the Electorate agents. Quite literally, a “Labor partnered with the said. -Jones, Shayne Mallard, of Cessnock, Shadow decision at Council on one The legislation will be local government sector and In 2017 the following Taylor Martin & Lou Minister for Water, of these issues could lead to introduced into the NSW we even tried to work with Liberals and Nationals Amato. Shadow Minister for a profit of millions, tens of Legislative Council. the Liberals and Nationals voted to let property Mr Secord, Labor Shadow Innovation, Science and millions or hundreds of The bill, Local Government to get it done, but in 2017 developers and real estate Treasurer & Shadow Tertiary Education & millions of dollars for some Amendment Ms Berejiklian directed her agents be elected to local Special Minister of State, Shadow Minister for the of these people. That is why Disqualification from Civic Liberal and National mates government: Minister Don said that communities Hunter, said one of the Labor believes that these Member for Cessnock Office) Bill 2020 was to vote against these draft Harwin, Minister Sarah expect the highest level of most common issues, often certain groups of people Clayton Barr MP drafted by Labor Shadow laws. Mitchell, Minister Bronwyn accountability and integrity controversial, that Councils should not be permitted on Minister for Local “These changes must be Taylor, President John from their councillors and deal with is around Councils,” said Clayton. The NSW Labor Party is Government, Greg enforced well before the Ajaka, Deputy President mayors. “This is the development applications The 2020 NSW Local proposing to introduce Warren. September local Trevor Khan, Parliamentary government’s chance to put and land zonings. “It is Government elections are laws to ban property Mr Warren said it’s been government elections Secretary Ben Franklin, up or shut up when it comes pretty fair and obvious to to be held on Saturday, 12 developers and real estate Labor’s policy for years to otherwise it proves these Parliamentary Secretary to ensuring transparency link those issues at a September 2020 8am-6pm Scone bypass officially opened but planning for Singleton bypass almost non THE NEWS | No. 515 | Wednesday 5 March 2020 ͽ 3 completely transform blow-out for a $325 million existent Singleton for the better. total, $100 million Sydney You know that when there Football Stadium budget bypass was jointly funded we could have it all, she is no timeline that the blow-out for an $828 by the NSW Government & clearly lied. It’s a Government is not serious million total & $1.5 billion the Federal Government,” disgrace,” Mr Graham and that is a slap in the face unnecessary Powerhouse said Labor Leader Jodi said. for Singleton and the peo- relocation. McKay. Labor Shadow Minister for ple of the Hunter,” Mr Barr That is $13.3billion in total Labor spokesperson for Rural Roads Mick Veitch said. & is the equivalent of the Upper Hunter and Shadow called for Singleton to be “Our call for answers cost of 20 bypasses,” said Minister for Roads John made a priority. comes as the Liberal Clayton. Graham slammed the “The divide between city Infrastructure most recent The NSW Labor Liberal-National and country is only getting blowout bill edges over $13 Opposition has also Government for falling wider under this Liberal- billion in Sydney– enough demanded the $24 million short on its election National Government. This to cover the cost of around for regional communities, promise. bypass is critical and it’s 20 bypasses,” said Clayton. that is unallocated in Round “There is scarce detail absolutely ridiculous to not “The state government’s 6 of the Resources for about the Singleton bypass even have a construction recent blowout bill is Regions program, is simply because of a lack of timeline,” Mr Veitch said. $3.5 billion Sydney metro released to support regional funding. It’s not good Labor Shadow Minister for budget blow-out, $1.3 bil- communities immediately. enough to only commit to the Hunter Clayton Barr lion Sydney light rail “Why hasn’t the $24million 20 per cent of the total cost said the Singleton budget blow-out for a $2.9 been allocated. The Deputy and then only allocate 2 community can’t wait any billion total, $6.8 billion Premier is noticeable silent percent of that. The longer. Westconnex budget blow on the matter,” said community is waiting, it’s “The bypass will remove up out for a $16.8 billion to- Clayton. been waiting for a long to 15,000 vehicles a day tal,$225 million ■ Photo at left: the official opening time. The Premier claimed from the CBD. This will Parramatta high-rise school of the bypass last Saturday.

Last Saturday saw the commissioning of the new official opening of the bypass so why would $137million Scone bypass. Scone be given priority Depending on who you over listen too it is now open to Singleton? traffic with some minor Labor Leader Jodi McKay landscaping work to be has declared regional NSW completed or it will be deserves better particularly open to traffic prior to Singleton. Easter. “The Labor Party is calling on the Government to It appears the reason for the speed up the Singleton bypass was to alleviate the bypass, which includes traffic through the town allocating the appropriate with a reported 8,400 funding and releasing a vehicles a day transgressing construction timeline,” said the sleepy town a day & I the Labor Leader. guess giving a much needed “The State Government has boost to the business sector. previously admitted the On the other hand Singleton construction timeline for is a continual carpark each the Singleton bypass relies morning as mine workers on funding availability. But and associated contractors Upper Hunter MP Michael inch their way through the Johnsen continues to pass town. the buck onto the Federal Without RMS data I would Government to cover the suggest that the vehicular bulk of the project cost, movement, each day, raising serious questions through Singleton would far about whether the surpass the 8,400 through Singleton bypass will ever Scone prior to the be fully funded. The Scone 4 ͽ| THE NEWS | No. 515 | Wednesday 4 Mar 2020 STEVE’S

I love the words to the song question is, what are the quoted by Allan Thomas in mechanics or physical his letter to the editor in the reactions that are supposed last issue of this paper. The to occur to make CO2 and thing we do know about methane retain heat in the clouds is how heat changes atmosphere? them in different The theory can be replicated circumstances. When the in the lab, but nobody has humidity level is high and a quantified this for the real cold front moves across the world. So much for the land the heat it takes from so-called sciences. the moisture in the We are all disturbed by the atmosphere causes clouds to situation for the folks at form and if sufficient heat is Stockton. Before you think, taken the water is condensed OMG, the beach at Stockton around dust particles to form is disappearing! It must be rain. During the drought, climate change! humidity levels in NSW Here are some more facts: were so low that any cold So that you know. This brief front that came along article on sea-level changes produced some cloud and was forwarded to me. It is some lightening, but little if consistent with other any rain. evidence - as against Many people in the Hunter conjecture. Valley are convinced that Daniel Fitzhenry – 1954 –1.00 metres level at Sydney occurred damage. Capt. Paul McGaw–ROV David is thorough, and he open-cut mines in the Valley Hydrographic Surveyor 1964 –1.09 metres during the 1974 low-pressure It is polite and essential that Operations Manager – explains for the layperson, have an impact on our 581 Singleton Road, 1974 –1.09 metres storm. The sea level rose to the world population should Electrical & Mechanical temperature, especially the weather. As an example, an Laughtondale NSW 2775 1984 –1.02 metres 30 cm above high spring tide avoid incorrect climate non- Engineer Tracey Hay–B.A mean average in Cairns over eye witness account of how a Mobile 0419 876 222 1994 –1.04 metres level for one day. During sense. We need to divert the (Macq) – Project Coordinator the last one hundred and visible storm front Rising Sea Levels–The 2004 –1.08 metres recorded history, there has alarmist energy to caring for –IT, Statistics & Research twenty years and concludes approached the mount Arthur Climate Debate 2014 –1.12 metres been no indication whatso- the planet. Cease polluting Manager that the Cairns temperature mine, only to disappear over The seas and oceans to the 2019 –1.05 metres ever of a 100 to 200 cm the oceans. Prevent is flatlining. David explains the pit and then reform as the east of Australia form the How many readers remember Accordingly, the mean sea permanent rise in sea level. development of flood-prone how Professor Bill Johnston, air moved away, has been largest body of water on David Mason-Jones? David level at Sydney in 2019 is 6 There will always be short land and threatened coastal a statistician started from a related to me by an OCE. earth. worked at this newspaper centimetres lower than the period storm, cyclone and zones that have been, and position of neutrality. He The rising hot air from the This broadly connected vast with Mike at the very mean sea level at Sydney in low pressure rises in sea will always be, subject to scrutinized statistics, finding vast hole became absorbed body of water presents a beginning, going on to be a 1914 when the Bureau Of levels in close proximity to flooding. steps, either up or down, in by the clouds which genuine sea level. The successful journalist and Meteorology commenced cyclone and storm centres. Dan Fitzhenry. records coincided exactly dissipated, into just Sydney Fort Denison author. David has written recording Mean Sea Level. These storm centre rises in Capt. Daniel Fitzhenry with changes to the atmospheric humidity. Once Recording Station provides several books, two are push High Sea Levels during sea levels are not permanent. –CPHS1 Hydrographic immediate environment this moist air moved away, stable, accurate and genuine back books against the Storm, Cyclone & Ocean swells and storm Surveyor - Registered close to the weather station. from the effect of the pit, it mean sea level data. current mounting hysteria Low-Pressure Events. waves can exceed 16 metres Surveyor – Dip. Where a weather station condensed again by the cold The following table shows and nonsense of the global BBC and ABC during major storm surge Environmental Studies moved from the post office front, giving up the heat from mean sea levels at 10-year warming advocates. To be commentators have asserted events. It is these massive (Macq.) Steven Fitzhenry– to the airfield, and when the the rising hot air. intervals and these levels are specific, his first book is on that sea levels may waves that have caused B.Eng. (Civil) Sydney – MIE airport increased in size. If you think this is all HOT related to Chart Datum, the subject “Should we eat permanently rise by 1 to 2 significant damage to coastal Aust. – Maritime Civil & There is no increasing trend AIR, ask anybody who which is at the lowest spring meat?” against the ridiculous metres in the next 100 years. and island communities in Structural Engineer – Project in the mean average works in the pits. So that is tide level. claim by SBS, that ruminant One hundred years of records the past. It is certain that Manager Capt. Adam temperature in any of the how clouds or rather 100 YEARS OF MEAN farm animals emit one-third on the largest water body on huge storm event waves will Fitzhenry–B. Eng. Honours coastal cities from Cairns to atmospheric moisture SEA LEVELS AT FORT of global warming gasses. earth indicates that this is occur in the future and will (Civil) Syd, MBA AGSM – Rockhampton absorbs heat. The mechanics DENISON, SYDNEY: The second book is an incorrect. cause significant damage to Maritime Civil & Structural Get the book; of this are observable by 1914 –1.11 metres examination of the resilience There has always been short the island and low-lying Engineer – Oceanographer WILL THE GREAT anybody as the sunshine 1924 –0.98 metres of coral reefs throughout the period storm, and low communities. Coastline and Ellie Fitzhenry–B.Sc BARRIER REEF burns off morning mist 1934 –0.98 metres world, but in particular, the pressure rises in sea levels. flood zone protection is the (Sydney) – Marine Biology SURVIVE? formed overnight. The 1944 –0.97 metres Great Barrier Reef. The highest recorded sea sane answer to storm event & Ecology – Marine Science David Mason-Jones www.journalist,com.au Maybe a wake-up call of Queensland, Australia is year and most of that also ISBN: 978-0-9924546-3-0 the last edition of The The disruption to clothing second only to the United soon ends up in landfill. (pbk) News. manufacturing in China due States in its annual In our once thriving Hunter Cheers Steve. The invisible part to the coronavirus may consumption of new textile Valley retail outlets, many of clouds that you cannot have the silver lining of goods. We buy an average shops have closed, with helping to rebuild the see is water vapor and dry turning our attention to of 27kilograms a year and online shopping a big strong sense of community air. The majority of recycled clothing, thereby 85per cent of it goes to factor in that. At this time that adds real quality of life the cloud is just plain air in reducing environmental landfill. Globally, fast of re-evaluating how we to any city. which the invisible water damage and vast fashion is the second live, I hope our local popu- vapor is mixed with and the international delivery greatest polluter after oil. lace will return to their At request of writer name & very tiny water drops and distances. Shoppers buy 80billion suburban strips, boosting contact details not be ice particles are suspended According to the University pieces of new clothing each local employment and published in. A cloud is a mixture of gas, liquid and solids What percentage of green- Bushfire Inquiry 27th March 2020 and house gases is water vapor? I urge everyone who has can be delivered in A greenhouse gas, like been involved in any person to any Service carbon dioxide, it capacity during the recent NSW centre. People represents around 80 bushfires to make a really need to make a percent of total greenhouse submission to the NSW submission so that their gas mass in the atmosphere Bushfire Inquiry. Your views can be given the and 90 percent of stories, concerns, and appropriate greenhouse gas volume. suggestions need to be consideration. Water vapor and clouds heard. Mick Veitch MLC account for 66 to 85 It is a shame the Taskforce Shadow Minister for percent of the greenhouse will not be holding public Industry and Trade, effect, compared to a range hearings. I would have Shadow Minister for Rural of 9 to 26 percent for CO2. thought that to get a real Roads, Shadow Minister Allan needs to do some sense of people`s feelings for Rural Affairs and Show reading on clouds and water you would hold public Minister for Western NSW. vapour. forums in their Clouds That’s my rant for today. communities and I urge the I refer to the letter from Clr Rod Doherty, Taskforce to hold public Allan Thomas of Lochinvar Maitland forums. ~ taking on Steves Rant Submissions close on about clouds published in THE NEWS | No. 515 | Wednesday 4 Mar 2019 ͽ 5 Hydro Aluminium site development in Kurri Kurri progresses with Stevens-McCloy joint venture

Demolished Kurri Kurri site, set for residential development this year been determined by the NSW Department of Planning, Infrastructure and Environment. Daracon is in the early stages of planning the remediation activity. The first steps towards residential development are expected to get underway within six months of the rezoning being completed, which is anticipated in late 2020. The McCloy Group was founded in Belmont in 1961 and today creates out- standing master planned residential communities; A joint venture between the outcome and is excited “The site’s southern area is owns, redevelops and Stevens Group and to be see the development ideal for employment lands manages commercial office McCloy Group has progress. due to its proximity to the complexes; and state-of-the finalised an agreement “We have been concentrat- Hunter Expressway, access -art retirement living with Hydro Aluminium ing on demolition and to significant existing villages. Kurri Kurri for the sale of remediation for a long time infrastructure and the The group currently has their 2000-hectare smelter now, so are pleased to be existence of a rail line fifteen residential projects site and buffer land, able to progress to this through the site, and of underway with ten others signalling a boost to the stage, where parcels of land course a skilled workforce. completed and a healthy local economy partnered can be developed and Kurri The economic benefits project pipeline for future with significant environ- Kurri can start to see associated with the sites communities. mental outcomes. economic benefits again,” redevelopment has the McCloy Group projects are Richard said. potential to include a mostly based around the Stevens Group is one of “We are mindful that the significant jobs boost,” he Hunter region but stretch as NSW’s leading private closure of the smelter in continued. far afield as the New property development 2014 was a loss to the local An agreement to sell the England and Northern companies, with significant community, and we are land to Flow Systems in Rivers Region, with land experience in the develop- keen to see the local 2018 was thwarted when assets also in Far North ment of industrial land, economy regrow, Flow was placed under Queensland. along with residential and particularly with the administration in December The McCloy Group is a commercial offerings. promise of more jobs for of the same year and was multiple award winner, McCloy Group is likewise a the area”. sold shortly afterwards. with various awards in the Hunter-based, award- Shane Boslem, Project Hydro has been continuing residential, commercial and winning residential land Director and spokesperson with the demolition and hospitality space including developer currently for the Stevens/McCloy remediation of the site, with for the The Lucky Hotel delivering more than 5000 joint venture is looking the large stacks demolished redevelopment, Heritage residential homesites across forward to the development in May 2019. Parc, Ironbark Ridge and 15 master planned taking place. The demolition of the site, Northlakes Estate communities within NSW, “The Maitland and Kurri being undertaken by CMA residential developments, along with commercial Kurri areas have a lot of Contracting since April City Exchange, a large office developments. potential for further growth 2017 is currently around 80 scale commercial The two companies have given this area’s strategic per cent complete, and redevelopment and office experience working location close to the Hunter contractor Daracon was fit outs in the Telstra Civic together as partners on Expressway and the awarded the remediation to name but a few. several projects including Maitland, Cessnock growth contract last month. ARTICLE COURTESY OF Radcliffe at Wyee and corridor,” he said. The major remediation Principle Living, which “Significant residential activity at the site includes provides premium lifestyle development has already the construction of an offerings for seniors in occurred along this engineered containment locations across the Hunter. corridor, and our plans for cell. The environmental Hydro Aluminium housing there will approval for the remedia- Managing Director, Richard complement and enhance tion, whilst close to Brown, is delighted with this growth. completion, has not yet “Moving from unbelief to belief”

In our Gospel today, we hear that Nicodemus who was a Pharisee and a Jewish leader came to Jesus one night. In John’s Gospel, light imagery symbolizes the presence of God, whilst darkness and night, symbolizes God’s absence. So, Nicodemus coming to Jesus is a movement from unbelief to belief, from darkness into the light, however small or large that movement is. Nicodemus comes to Jesus and believes in His name because of the signs that he has seen Jesus do. We are told this at the beginning of the gospel, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God; for no one can do these signs that you do apart from the presence of God.” (John 3.2) I wonder how often we come to God in the night or the darkness or because of the signs that we have witnessed? I wonder too whether perhaps God calls us in these ways? Perhaps we come to God in the night as our unbelief moves to belief and because of the signs that help us to believe? Maybe these are actually, very authentic ways to come? Jesus’ response challenges the way Nicodemus understands the kingdom of God. Nicodemus found himself confronted by a seeming impossibility. Jesus tells him “no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above. (John 3.3) Nicodemus utters a very human question … “How?” This is not the only time he asks this question. Later in the passage the question “how?” is asked again when Nicodemus again fails to understand. Can we put ourselves in the place of Nicodemus and imagine that Jesus is speaking to us? How would we respond when we don’t understand? Maybe we would ask the same question, “how?” or maybe we would ask an equally important one, “why?” Being born of the flesh means being content, like Nicodemus, with the things that we can control and observe. Living in the flesh means using our senses to make judgements. Being born in the Spirit leads us on a different journey, a different way of life and a different understanding. The difference between the two is what Nicodemus and we fail to understand much of the time. Jesus took that opportunity with Nicodemus to teach him and us that “the wind blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes.” (John 3.8) The wind, like the Spirit, is a mystery. The wind can be experienced, and its’ effects seen. The Spirit too is like this. We can experience the movement of the Spirit in our lives, and the lives of others, but we cannot control it or ever completely understand it. This is where our faith is important. We do not need to completely comprehend to believe. Even our limited understanding is a joy to God. So as we continue our journey through Lent, as we question and wrestle with understanding, as we come to Jesus in the light and in the darkness, may we know in our hearts that God is delighted by us, Jesus welcomes us as we are, and the Holy Spirit dwells within us as our constant companion and guide who points us to God.

Every blessing, Reverend Nicole 6 ͽ THE NEWS | No. 515 | WEDNESDAY | 4 Mar 2020 we do the necessary work to like a banner. The histori- thrive in the greenery because email address if you're incorporate their details in ans among us may there are many other parts of applying in person or on the our system. We thank dismiss this narrative as the State that remain dry and phone. veterans and widows for being entirely without any desolate. their patience as we complete factual basis, and perhaps For enquiries regarding the Some of the basic facts are this work. Once cards it is. But the true beauty Members say …. State Government or its that 99% of the State is still become available, they will of the commemoration of departments, or to put you in in drought. Hunter Water still be able to be used for the full the bicentenary of Single- contact with someone who have water storage levels at a 12 months from activation. ton is that it’s a chance varying levels of water The situation is no better for can help, please contact my very low 62% across the Currently Age Pension Card for all of us to bring our restrictions mean for how we those hoping to remain in office. My office can be network. Many of the inland Holders and Commonwealth own meaning to what is a use water in our day to day their own home with the contacted by phoning 4991- rivers in NSW are still bone Seniors Health Card Holders significant milestone in lives. To find out more visit assistance of Government- 1466, by email to www.hunterwater.com.au/ funded Aged Care dry. The environment of [email protected] can apply for the travel card. our history, and to share restrictions. Packages. Tragically, in the NSW, right now, is still or call into 118 Vincent EMPOWERING HOMES our own stories of Single- Council has allocated the $1 past two years 30,000 elderly desperately unhealthy as a Street (PO Box 242), FOR A BRIGHTER ton. The Wonnaruah/ million received from the Australians result of drought and then Cessnock 2325. ENERGY FUTURE Wanaruah people first Federal Government died while waiting for a fires, and now, in places You can also follow me on Eligible Hunter residents belonged to this area, following the bush fires last package. In November, the where it is raining after fires, my Facebook page will be able to access interest establishing an year. The Disaster Recovery aged care royal commission’s being poisoned by ash filled “www.facebook.com/ -free loans for battery and unbreakable connection Funding has been earmarked interim report described the water run-off. claytonbarrmp”, go to solar-battery systems which that is revered and will for some vital projects that aged care system in Australia With regard to our local Twitter and search could deliver more than continue to be revered for assist in the recovery and as a “shocking tale of water levels and the decision @claytonbarrmp or check $250 in savings a year, generations to come. A also build resilience for neglect”. It called for urgent by the Minister to lift Water out my website at thanks to a NSW mere 200 years ago, the future fire events. A action including more home Restrictions for Hunter www.claytonbarr.com.au Government pilot program. first European explorers Water, from Level 2 back to The pilot is an important arrived. Today, 22,987 Bob Pynsent, Mayor Cessnock highlight includes $500,000 care packages to reduce the Cheers Clayton Level 1, I have been pleased first step in the delivery of people now call Single- City Council for upgrading Yango Creek 120,000-long waiting list, an Bridge. This will allow for urgent response to the by the many local pieces of the NSW Government’s ton home. And each of us Empowering Homes adds another chapter to Congratulations to the better access for fire trucks significant overreliance on feedback that this decision program which will reduce the story of Singleton. Seniors Festival organising and larger vehicles. This is a chemical restraints in aged appears to have been made a energy bills for up to The bicentenary committee. The feedback has good, common sense result care homes, and the bit early and that we need to 300,000 households while commemoration is not certainly been so positive. enabling our emergency removal of young people place a greater value on what helping the State to limited to John Howe and The cooperation between the services and community with disability from aged care we now realise is such a transition to a clean energy Benjamin Singleton, or 35 organisations involved better access to this area facilities. precious resource. Going future. any of the other 15 or so strengthens the various links during an emergency There can be no higher forward, over the longer For households that use members of the explora- in our community. Seniors situation. To find more about responsibility for government term, we all just need to try to more than 6,000kWh of tion party who staked are able to experience the the projects being funded than the proper care of our be more careful with our electricity a year, installing a their claim on this land on varied organisations that exist visit http:// elderly and the disabled. The water and hopefully, set MICHAEL JOHNSEN MP solar and battery system can 15 March 1820. It’s in the in our local government area. www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au/ NDIS remains a wonderful ourselves the personal house- Member for Upper Hunter help reduce their annual stories of the Wonnarua/ One of the aims of Seniors council/news/ project offering greater levels hold challenge of trying to electricity bill by putting Wanaruah who passed Festival is to increase disasterrecoveryfunding. of support, flexibility and consume just 140L of water, 2020 NAIDOC GRANTS more than $250 a year back down the traditions of membership of these Cheers, Bob independence than did the old per person, per day – like OPEN into your pocket. their ancestors, and in all organisations and to have state-based system. Transi- they do down in Orange. I encourage community This will help create jobs, of us who followed – no varied activities to occupy the tioning hundreds of THE REGIONAL SENIOR groups to apply for NAIDOC reduce emissions, increase matter where we came senior residents of our thousands of people across TRAVEL CARD FIASCO community grants that are system security and reliabil- from, how we got here, or community. The involvement from the old system while I find it quite disgraceful that currently open to support ity, and place downward which part of our local of the Cessnock City Library accommodating new entrants the Regional Senior Travel events that celebrate pressure on energy costs for government area is and its staff must be was always going to be Card rollout is being handled Aboriginal people and Torres everyone. home. acknowledged, with their difficult. But to become one so hopelessly by this Strait Islander history, culture Interest-free loans of up to The premise of Back to activities both fun and of the main reasons for Government. I have and achievements. $14,000 for a solar-battery Singleton 2020 extends to innovative. The residents complaint to the offices of enormous sympathy for the Up to $3000 is available to system, or up to $9,000 for everyone with a connec- attending were impressed MPs is a disappointing frontline workers at Service support groups to fund events the addition of a battery to tion to Singleton, whether with their experience. We achievement for any NSW and Centrelink who are that focus on the importance an existing solar system will you were born here and now look forward to government. trying to help people through of Aboriginal culture and its this maze of madness. be available to owner- moved away, stopped evaluating the Festival to JOEL FITZGIBBON MP Experience tells me that for place in our community. I remind people that at its occupiers with an annual once on the way up the make it an even better event Member for Hunter every person frustrated NAIDOC Week is an household income of up to highway or make a regu- in 2021. enough to contact my office, core, the purpose of this $250 important time to $180,000. lar pilgrimage to our Council would like to thank HEARING YOUR VOICE there are another three for travel support in regional acknowledge and celebrate Running for up to 12 cellar doors. The story of the 2020 Festival Gold As you might imagine, my reluctant to do so. If you have NSW was because there is so the invaluable contributions months, the pilot will be Singleton is not owned by Sponsors, East Cessnock office receives an incredible a problem you believe I may little public transport in many Indigenous communities and available to eligible residents any one person, but is Bowling Club, Cessnock amount of phone calls, be able to help with, please regional areas and hence their cultures make to our who have postcodes in the rather a rich tapestry of Toyota, Cessnock Priceline email messages and letters do not hesitate to make most people need to run their society and the NSW areas of Cessnock, Dungog, the stories of the people Pharmacy, Calvary Cessnock each week. In addition to contact. We not only want to own private car or rely on Government is proud to Lake Macquarie, Maitland, who were here and are Retirement Community and local traffic much of it comes assist where we can, but your taxis. With this in mind, to support this celebration. Mid-Coast, Muswellbrook, still here, and those to Northern Coalfields from keyboard warriors representations help me keep me, it doesn’t seem to matter The 2020 National NAIDOC Port Stephens, Singleton and come. Community Care across the nation pushing my finger on the pulse of the what type of Senior you are, Week will run from 5 - 12 Upper Hunter. Another chapter will be Association. Thanks also their pet policy problems. there is still very limited July, focusing on the theme Homeowners in the Hunter written next week, when goes to the Festival’s 2020 agenda. Technology I welcome the NSW public transport and hence Always Was, Always Will Be, electorates region are we come together for a Media Partner, the Cessnock has made it easy to do Government’s back-down on the original purpose should reflecting the importance of encouraged to check the weekend to enjoy all that Advertiser. so: they simply submit their its decision to refuse Veter- apply equally for all (the way the land and culture that has that it was promised during Energy Saver website to see makes our area special. Now Seniors Festival is name and postcode on the ans and War Widows access forever been part of if their postcode is eligible All the festivities start finished, we are now gearing advocacy group’s website to its Regional Seniors Travel the election campaign). Australia’s Indigenous and for details on how to with Singleton up for the celebration of our and the group pressing Card. Well done to Clayton Our Cessnock Electorate culture. apply. Homecoming on John young people with Youth the issue sends their letter to Barr and others who have office, along with others Eligible not-for-profit Cheers, Michael Street on Friday 13 Week 2020. The event kicks your local MP. They even been pressing the case on across the State, has been organisations in NSW can March, followed by free off on Saturday 14 March write it for you. behalf of those who have putting as much pressure as apply for grants of $500 to family fun on the Civic and runs through until The great bulk of correspon- served and their families. possible on the Government $1,000 to recognise their Green at Singleton Day Saturday 11 April. The dence to my Cheers, Joel to make sense of the local Aboriginal community Out on the afternoon of Cessnock Youth Week office comes from local craziness by getting rid of the achievements, cultures, Saturday 14 March. I then Planning Committee is people with local problems many restrictions on this languages and identity. For invite you to buy your excited to launch their action- and the most common issues program. We recently had more significant standalone tickets to join us for some packed program of events. are visas, some success with returned events, which may involve a old-time glamour at the Youth Fest is key event telecommunications, service men and women number of partners, grants of Singleton Soiree at the happening at TAFE Park, taxation, family law, and (aged over 66 years) and War up to $3,000 are available. Civic Centre, including Cessnock on Saturday 4 Centrelink problems. Widow(er) pensioners now This year the NSW live music, canapes, April. This event will But lately, the two issues allowed to access the scheme Government will trial online but the Government have dessert and entertainment include live music, which keep us busiest are funding agreements for for just $35 per person amusements, food stalls and aged care and NDIS explained that it will take successful applicants to (not including drinks). an outdoor cinema. issues. This is in part why I them several weeks to update reduce the administrative Tickets are available on I am already looking forward hold regular forums for their systems to allow for burden on communities. Sue Moore, Mayor Singleton Council’s website, to attending the My School seniors and NDIS. We are this. Grant applications are Council Administration Building Rules cooking competition to blessed to have many quality Member for Cessnock Please keep telling us your currently open and close or Singleton Visitor taste and experience some of not-for-profit local aged Clayton Barr MP stories and lodging your Friday 24 April 2020. For Since the Singleton Information Centre. the wonderful food our care providers. But they can frustrations. We will pass further information visit: Bicentennial Commemora- The community has also young people create. Good only be as good as they are Raising the BARR each and every example https://bit.ly/2P2tEVQ or call tions Working Group was come together to compile luck to all the participants. To resourced by government GREEN GRASS DOES NOT along to the Minister and 1800 019 998. formed and began meeting a fantastic program of find out what else is planned and clearly in recent years, SIGNAL END OF DROUGHT leave it to him to explain his Update $250 Regional more than a year ago, I’ve events to commemorate this Youth Week visit that resourcing has not been It is pretty wonderful to see decisions. Seniors Travel Card To apply you can call Service imagined countless times Back to Singleton 2020. www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au/ sufficient. The Productivity some green grass out there. Based on the feedback we how it must have felt for For all the information youthweek. Commission tells us that Whether its front lawns, NSW 13 77 88, visit a have received, the NSW those colonial explorers to you need to plan your A reminder to all the seniors looking for a place in sporting fields or farms and Service NSW Centre or apply Government has made the emerge from the rugged bicentennial year, visit community that Level 1 an aged care facility are now paddocks, the green colour is online decision to include those www.service.nsw.gov.au/ outcrops of the Blue www.singleton.nsw.gov.a Water Restrictions now waiting nine months or more a welcome sight after 2 years collecting a Service Pension Mountains and see the vista u/backtosingleton2020 or apply. We must all do our bit for a place. That’s a 300 of brown. We in the Hunter transaction/apply-regional- or a War Widow Payment in of the plains of Whitting- contact Council for a to conserve water and ensure per cent increase on the are very lucky to have seniors-travel-card. the program. Applications ham, interrupted only by a printed copy. we understand what the average 40-day wait in 2013. received the rain and now Note: You don't need a for those individuals will MyServiceNSW Account or open in the coming months as lazy, winding river, unfurl Cheers, Sue

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P: 4938 1773 Phone: 0487756170 P: 4938 1773 8 ͽ THE NEWS No. 515 WED 5 Mar 2020 Lions ‘Lap the Map’ for diabetes comes to Branxton fun and at the same time brush up your | | | knowledge about Diabetes. Looking Over 1.3 million a combined distance that exceeds forward to seeing you there. We’re Australians have Australia’s circumference (25,760 sure you will enjoy a great day out diabetes, and an kms). participating in a wonderful local op- estimated 2 million are at Branxton Event ~ On the morning of th portunity for Lions’ Australia to bene- high risk of developing the condition - 29 March 2020, the Lions Club of fit our community as well as raise and these numbers are increasing Branxton invite you to participate in a awareness around how we stop the & rapidly every day in communities self-paced walk, run or jog from the spread of diabetes nationally. across the country. Branxton Oval to Miller Park carpark ‘Lap the Map’ is one important part of

Diabetes doesn’t discriminate, and rates and return. The aim is to promote a the Lions overall mission to reduce the are rising for the young and old, men healthy lifestyle and improve personal prevalence of diabetes in Australia this and women, and across a variety of awareness about diabetes, its causes year. Type 2 Diabetes represents 90% ethnic backgrounds. In response to this and effects. of all cases of diabetes, and can be national health epidemic, diabetes is one The route is approximately 2.5 km prevented or delayed in more than half of Lions’ 5 key focus areas in 2020. over flat country on sealed paths with of these cases through making healthy Corona Virus Update as at 27/2/2020 Fast facts ~ Diabetes is recognised as a minimum of road crossings. lifestyle choices. These include: the world’s fastest growing chronic Families can push a stroller, kids can * Regular physical activity; condition. ride a bike, the fit may choose to run, * Maintaining a healthy weight; * One in 11 adults world-wide is con- everyone can participate. * Making healthy food choices; firmed as having diabetes (415 million). Registrations open and 0800 and * Managing blood pressure; * 12 per cent of global health step-off is between 0830 and 0845 * Managing cholesterol levels; expenditure is spent on diabetes from Branxton Oval; it is anticipated and Not smoking. (USD$673 billion). the walk can be comfortably It doesn’t matter how far you walk, jog * Every six seconds globally, a person completed within 30 to 40 minutes. or run, it’s about being involved, dies from diabetes. The entry fee is $10.00 per adult and getting active and moving together on As a national service organisation made $5.00 for primary school children, pre this critical national project. Lions up of volunteers from all ages and -schoolers are free or a family ticket across Australia are committed to places, Lions Australia are uniquely for two adults and their children is doing what we can to raise awareness positioned to promote diabetes $25.00. There will be a halfway water and increase education around diabetes prevention on a national scale, and station at Miller Park and on return to prevention and promote healthier within each of our local communities. Branxton Oval a complementary living. By getting involved with Lap We are calling for Branxton community bacon & egg roll and drink will be the Map, you are helping Lions members to ‘Lap the Map’ for diabetes available for all participants. A raffle Australia continue our commitment to prevention. of fresh fruit and vegetables shall be community wellbeing through Lions has engaged with local groups and conducted after the walk and all innovative Lions health projects that experts to provide information on diabe- monies raised on the day shall be help Australians through education,

tes at these events. Branxton Lions will donated to Lions Australia Diabetes awareness and the power of

be reporting the length of our ‘Lap the Foundation. volunteering. Map’ walks and we are walking to move Come along, participate, have some

As of 2:30pm 25 February from their nose or mouth developments about 2020, there are four which may contain virus. If COVID-19. Follow advice confirmed cases of novel you are too close, you can given by your healthcare coronavirus (COVID-19) breathe in the droplets, provider, your national and in NSW and 171 cases including the COVID-19 local public health under investigation. virus if the person coughing authority or your employer Infection with novel has the disease. on how to protect yourself coronavirus (COVID-19) Avoid touching eyes, nose and others from COVID- is now a notifiable and mouth 19. condition under the NSW Why? Hands touch many Why? National and local Public Health Act, so all surfaces and can pick up authorities will have the cases and suspected cases viruses. Once contaminated, most up to date information must be reported by hands can transfer the virus on whether COVID-19 is doctors to NSW Health to your eyes, nose or mouth. spreading in your area. public health authorities From there, the virus can They are best placed to who will work to prevent enter your body and can advise on what people in spread of the infection to make you sick. your area should be doing others. Practice respiratory to protect themselves. Basic protective hygiene measures against the Make sure you, and the Protection measures for new coronavirus people around you, follow persons who are in or Stay aware of the latest good respiratory hygiene. have recently visited (past information on the This means covering your 14 days) areas where COVID-19 outbreak, mouth and nose with your COVID-19 is spreading available on the WHO bent elbow or tissue when  Follow the guidance website and through your you cough or sneeze. Then outlined above. national and local public dispose of the used tissue health authority. COVID- immediately.  Stay at home if you Italian-style roast pork in milk 19 is still affecting mostly Why? Droplets spread begin to feel unwell, even people in China with virus. By following good with mild symptoms such some outbreaks in other respiratory hygiene you as headache and slight countries. Most people protect the people around runny nose, until you who become infected you from viruses such as recover. Why? Avoiding experience mild illness cold, flu and COVID-19. contact with others and and recover, but it can be If you have fever, cough visits to medical facilities more severe for others. and difficulty breathing, will allow these facilities to Cook succulent pork loin in creamy thyme and Take care of your health seek medical care early operate more effectively garlic infused milk for an Italian-style twist to and protect others by Stay home if you feel and help protect you and your traditional family roast. doing the following: unwell. If you have a fever, others from possible Ingredients COVID-19 and other 1 tablespoon olive oil Wash your hands cough and difficulty breath- 1.1kg Coles Australian Pork Loin Roast (see frequently ing, seek medical attention viruses. notes) Regularly and thoroughly and call in advance. Follow If you develop fever, cough 1 whole garlic bulb, cloves separated, unpeeled clean your hands with an the directions of your local and difficulty breathing, 4 thyme sprigs alcohol-based hand rub or health authority. seek medical advice 6 shallots, halved wash them with soap and Why? National and local promptly as this may be 3 x 2cm-wide strips lemon rind water. authorities will have the due to a respiratory 2 cups (500ml) milk, approximately Why? Washing your most up to date information infection or other serious 2 tablespoons Bulla Cooking Cream Reduce oven to 170C. Roast, topping up milk when needed, for 2 hours or condition. Call in advance 2 Packham pears, cut into wedges until meat is tender and the rind is crisp. Transfer to a serving plate. Cover hands with soap and water on the situation in your area. Olive oil, extra, to brush loosely with foil and set aside for 10 mins to rest. or using alcohol-based Calling in advance will and tell your provider of Sage leaves, to serve Step 4 hand rub kills viruses that allow your health care any recent travel or contact Method Meanwhile, strain milk mixture into a saucepan, pressing garlic through may be on your hands. provider to quickly direct with travelers. Step 1 sieve into milk mixture. Discard solids. Maintain social you to the right health Why? Calling in advance Preheat oven to 240C. Heat the oil in a frying pan Step 5 distancing facility. This will also will allow your health care over medium heat. Cook pork, turning, for 5 mins Add the cream to the milk mixture. Bring to the boil over high heat. Cook, Maintain at least 1 metre protect you and help prevent provider to quickly direct or until browned. Transfer to a baking pan with stirring occasionally, for 10 mins or until sauce thickens and reduces. (3 feet) distance between spread of viruses and other you to the right health garlic, thyme, shallot and lemon rind. Step 6 facility. This will also help Step 2 Heat a barbecue grill or chargrill on high. Lightly brush pear wedges with yourself and anyone who infections. Add enough milk to the baking pan to just cover a little extra oil. Cook for 2 mins each side or until lightly charred. is coughing or sneezing. Stay informed and follow to prevent possible spread the pork, leaving the rind uncovered (you may Step 7 Why? When someone advice given by your of COVID-19 and other not need all the milk at this stage). Transfer pork Arrange the pork and pear on a serving platter. Sprinkle with sage. Cut into coughs or sneezes they healthcare provider viruses. to oven. Roast, uncovered, for 30 mins. slices and serve with the sauce. spray small liquid droplets Stay informed on the latest Step 3

10 ͽ| THE NEWS | No. 515 | Wednesday 5 Mar 2019 WITH ......

Gemma BUNNER BA/ REPORT LLB (Hons), Acc Spec (Personal Injury) & Kerri SHAW B.Comm/ LLB (Hons) Greta Museum invites you to their street library – no forms to fill in, just take a P: (02) 4046 1805 | F: (02) 4017 0646 book or two of your choice, keep it/them, OR return it/them and, if you wish, IN-PRINICPLE SETTLEMENT REACHED IN PFAS donate some of your own. CLASS ACTIONS The library is put outside if it’s not too The Australian Government Court of Australia. There is Australia. She said while she hot or wet, or may be just inside the front have reached an in-principle a formal process of seeking welcomed the news of the door. settlement, the Government settlement with residents of approval which requires a Available when the museum is open at Williamtown, Oakley and number of steps including had still not responded to the Katherine who each bought notification to class committee's report which 96 High Street, Greta, between the class actions over the use of members. The Court will was tabled 18 months ago. historic courthouse & Greta Bakery each per-and poly-fluoroalkyl consider whether the Defence said in the substances (PFAS) at proposed settlement is a fair statement that the Saturday & Wednesday, 11am- 3pm. defence bases. and reasonable compromise Government would continue Enquiries, call Neridah on 0427657150. The three communities had of the claims of the class to engage with communities, their groundwater members. and that it recognised the contaminated by toxic fire- The breakthrough came on "difficult journey for many people over the past few fighting foams used at Wednesday 26 February going, according to the Good intentions, big caps are limiting. “The “I have a client I have years". defence bases until the early after two days of intense survey by financial website limitations: people we’re talking to worked with for more than "The Government remains 2000s. The PFAS chemicals mediation talks between the Money.com.au. By Alexandra Cain are saying the caps are 10 years. She had breast committed to concluding the do not break down in the Department of Defence and It suggests some recent All the initial places in the way too low.” cancer surgery and has not environment, and are known lawyers representing the environmental investigations into PFAS contamination on homeowners could be federal government’s First The scheme has an been able to return to her to persist in water, plant and communities. paying higher credit costs Home Loan Deposit income limit of job. When her loan goes human systems. Authorities The 500 Williamtown and near defence facilities across Australia, and to the than they were counting on Scheme have been snapped $200,000 for couples from interest-only to overseas have found the residents covered by class when they made their up, as new borrowers rush and $125,000 for principle and interest in chemicals can cause action are yet to learn the ongoing monitoring and engagement with purchases. to take advantage of record singles. There are also 2020, she thinks she will reproductive and full details of the settlement. Younger Aussies were -low interest rates and the are price limits of have trouble paying. developmental, liver and An administrator will be communities once particularly confident of an renewed vigour in the $700,000 in Sydney and “We formed a plan to talk kidney, and immunological appointed to assess investigations are complete," additional cut, with 36 per property market. $600,000 in Melbourne, to the hardship team at her effects in laboratory animals. individual losses and the statement said. cent of under 30s expecting The first 3000 scheme which reflect the median lender and they looked at The class action contended distribute settlements. There are potential class that the Department of Some residents had been actions which involve a a fourth cut and 30 per cent positions released to property prices in those reducing her rate now and Defence was liable for represented by law firm number of different sites of under 40s expecting the National Australia Bank capital cities. Other also suspending payments depressed land values and Dentons, who said in a across Australia. These same. and the Commonwealth cities and regional for six months while she business outlooks. statement that the result was potential actions would be Only about one in seven Bank have already been centres have lower caps. rebuilds her health and In a joint statement from the a vindication for the town. on behalf of members of the Aussies aged above 60 reserved, according to employment opportunities.” Minister for Defence, Linda There are still hundreds community who own, or expected another cut. spokespeople from both What to do if Lenders are prepared to Reynolds, and the Minister more sites across Australia have owned, property in the Money.com.au reported 17 banks. work with people who work for Veterans Affairs, Darren which have been contaminated area. The per cent of respondents A NAB spokesperson said: you can’t pay with them but, as Slack- Chester, the Government contaminated by the toxic Department of Defence are made changes to their “We have a customer your Smith says, ultimately the said the parties have reached chemical compounds. undertaking investigations to personal finances based on waitlist for positions as bank is a business and it an in-principle agreement Northern Territory senator determine the extent of land an additional cut. they become available. We mortgage requires funds to be repaid. and were finalising the Malarndirri McCarthy and groundwater Among the most common continue to work with the Can the bank force you to confidential terms of a co -chaired a parliamentary contamination from the use changes were switching to a National Housing Finance sell your home? settlement. committee into PFAS of PFAS chemicals on each variable home loan or and Investment By Alexandra Cain The worst-case scenario is a These terms will also subject contamination across site. personal loan and Corporation as it makes a There may be times in forced property sale. When to approval by the Federal Cheers, Kerri increasing personal further 7000 places your life when, for this happens, properties can spending. available from 1 February.” whatever reason – be sold at below-market More than one in 10 Of those spots, 2000 places relationship breakdown, value, which is another Mortgage borrowed more on their will be shared between a sick child or your own reason to be on the front mistake: many home thinking interest rates NAB and CBA. A further illness – you are unable foot and sell on your own would drop another 0.25- 5000 loans will be made to meet your mortgage terms if you anticipate Aussies maxed 0.5 per cent. available through smaller repayments. issues repaying your out loans banking Money.com.au financial lenders. If this happens to you, mortgage. adviser Helen Baker said Good intentions, big there are many steps Before a bank will force a News on a fourth rate the study suggested limitations you can take to sale, it will usually give the mortgagees borrowed as Despite the FHLDS’s minimise any fallout. borrower a grace period to cut much as they could and popularity, experts point to What are your options allow them to address the weren’t concerned about its limitations. “The if you can’t meet loan issue, Slack-Smith says. By Aidan their debt. scheme has good repayments? “Depending on the state Devine “For borrowers who intentions, in that it is If you used a mortgage you live in, the lender will expected the fourth rate cut designed to help people get broker, they can assist issue you with a notice to last year, we can see that the deposit together they you before you default pay and give you a time- many chose to increase need to buy their first on the loan by looking frame to do this,” she said. their borrowing rather than home,” says financial for a more economical “If these conditions are not Property Industry Reforms Are An alarming number of pay down more of the services firm Pitcher lender or a different met, technically they can homeowners took out extra principal and pay debt off Partners’ client director, loan with your existing call the whole loan in and Coming In March 2020 debt late last year thinking faster,” Ms Baker said. Jason Fallscheer. “It can lender, according to evict you from the property there would be a fourth rate “It would indicate that they take years to save the mortgage broker Jane and sell it to recover the The long-awaited Property, McKibbin, CEO. Stock and Business Agents cut to push credit costs even believe their employment deposit even for a modest Slack-Smith from Your debt you owe them. But this “These reforms will see lower. income will continue and property.” Property Success. is unusual and they really Amendment (Property Industry education increase by Reform) Act 2018 (NSW) and New research revealed a they are comfortable with “But there are a few big “You can also negotiate try to work with people 500%. There will also be quarter of Aussies expected their ability to service loans limitations. It’s only with the hardship team through these issues.” the Property, Stock and relevant and structured Business Agents Amendment the Reserve Bank of at a higher level. available to 10,000 people with the lender involved How long does the bank continuing professional Australia to make another “They are unlikely to have [each financial year], the and obviously you can have to give you? Regulation 2019 (NSW) will development to keep come into effect on 23 March rate cut before Christmas concerns that reduced caps on housing prices are sell – although this is a Under law, banks are agents’ skills current.” and many made financial interest rates is a form of very low, and there are last resort,” she says. required to send a default 2020. “All industries are under The reforms are aimed at decisions expecting their stimulus to deal with bigger some issues around If you choose to work notice and give the pressure to respond to the credit costs to drop. economic problems at play, equitable access for with your bank to find a borrower 30 days to rectify improving the professional and contemporary consumers’ educational standards of agents The Reserve Bank cut the such as low wage growth couples. It also doesn’t solution, the earlier you the payment. increased expectation. The cash rate three times last and a poorly performing address some of the big do this, the better. If the payments are not working in the property reform package that the industry, increasing year, with the last cut in retail sector.” challenges to purchasing “If you let them know made and if the borrower REINSW has successfully October pushing credit for people who don’t fit the after three late payments does not enter a payment transparency, accountability fought for demonstrates and streamlining the licensing costs to the lowest in What experts narrow first-home buyer or no payments, they plan or approved hardship that the profession is ready history. demographic.” will be less enthusiastic arrangement, the bank can framework. to meet the challenge.” really think of “The Property Services Last year also marked the Jane Slack-Smith, director than if you give them a foreclose. However, most “The new regulatory first time the Reserve Bank the First Home of Investors Choice heads-up in advance that banks issue a statement of Reforms will significantly controls set out in the improve agency practice in made cuts over successive Mortgages, who is other- you anticipate issues claim and apply for reforms give the profession months but some Aussies Loan Deposit wise a fan of the scheme, repaying your loan,” judgment before NSW with the consumer as the more guidance and sup- primary beneficiary,” said Tim expected the RBA to keep Scheme agrees the property price Slack-Smith said. foreclosing. CONT P. 11 port,” said Mr McKibbin.

THE NEWS 514 WEDNESDAY 5 Mar 2020 ͽ 11 Speak up, be involved, get connected Smoother road ahead for supervisors advice during the free work- and have fun during Youth Week of learner drivers shop. Getting behind the current laws.” 2020 steering wheel and learning to Don’t miss out! The workshops Cessnock City Council in partnership Pynsent said it’s worth- drive is one of the most will take place in Council’s with Transport NSW is hosting a free while attending if you’re Administration Building and The Cessnock Youth Week 2020 is Speak Up, Be Involved, important skills a person can workshop for parents and supervisors supervising an L plater. learn. Those teaching our you can book your spot today by Planning Committee is excited Get Connected and Have Fun. of learner drivers from 6 to 8pm on “We have had great feed- calling Council’s Road Safety to launch their action-packed The Youth Week Planning future motorists need to Thursday 26 March 2020. back from our attendees ensure their knowledge and Officer, Warren Jeffery on program of events for Youth Committee has launched a new over the years who have 4993 4244 This free workshop offers practical skills are up to date with any Week 2020 which will kick off and exciting initiative in 2020 got a lot of helpful tips and on Saturday 14 March and run with the introduction of Youth advice on how to teach learner drivers through to Saturday 11 April. Week Ambassadors. The Am- to be safer motorists and assists with L This community run event relies bassadors are a diverse group of platers making the transition to their P Send us your community news. on the generous support of young people aged 12-18 years plates. ….. photos of events … young people, local organisa- old with a passion for their com- The workshop will cover the current tions, businesses and Cessnock munity. Look out for the Youth laws for L and P licence holders, …………...historic photos City Council who have rallied Week Ambassadors around supervising learner drivers, completing together to provide a range of town in the lead up to Youth the log book, low risk driving and the …...weddings … baptisms events and activities for every- Week. benefits of supervised on-road driving one to enjoy. There is something for everyone experience. … new babies joining the Each year, Youth Week is an on this year’s program including Cessnock City Mayor, Councillor Bob family …. opportunity for young people to Skate Jams, a tech based trivia share ideas, create events, show- night, My School Rules Cook- anything case their talents, have their ing Competition. TedX Youth Don't voices heard and try something and a cultural afternoon with about your new, and this year is no differ- Mindaribba Local Aboriginal mess with ent. The theme for Youth Week Land Council. There are also a community. range of other workshops which are a great opportunity to learn seniors! We want FROM P. 10 new skills, including art, make- A solicitor and a senior citizen are you to use up and cooking. What to do if you sitting next to each The feature event on the 2020 other on a long flight. The News can’t pay your Program is Youth Fest which The lawyer is thinking that mortgage will be held at TAFE Park on seniors are so dumb that to tell Leasa Mayes, a financial Saturday 4 April. This large he could get one over on YOUR counselling team leader at Care scale event will include live them easily. Financial Counselling Service, music, amusements, food stalls So, the lawyer asks if the News. agrees banks are usually and an outdoor cinema. senior would like to play a fun game. The senior is tired and just wants to take a nap, prepared to listen and work with To coincide with the launch of the Youth Week 2020 program, so he politely declines and tries to catch a few borrowers towards a resolution. winks. “They may provide a period of CYCOS has launched an Instagram account which will be The lawyer persists, saying that the game is a hardship, defer payments or lot of fun...."I ask you a question, and if you charge interest only on the loan used to help promote Youth Week activities. This will be a don't know the answer, you pay me only $5.00. for a period, depending on what Then you ask me one, and if I don't know the suits the particular situation,” great tool to reach local young answer, I will pay you $500.00," he says. she said. people, who tend to use this This catches the senior's attention and, to keep “Periods of unemployment or platform more than Facebook. the lawyer quiet, he agrees to play the game. 0414 757 826 illness happen to many people To follow search The lawyer asks the first question. "What's the so banks have procedures in @cycos_cessnock. distance from the Earth to the place to assist in these Cessnock City Mayor, Moon?" circumstances.” Councillor Bob Pynsent said he The senior doesn't say a word, but There may, however, be is looking forward to seeing reaches into his pocket, pulls out a five-dollar bill, and hands it to penalties. “Interest may still local young people getting out the lawyer. accrue and the late payment and about and involved in Youth Week 2020. Now, it's the senior's turn. He asks history will appear on the the lawyer, "What goes up a hill borrower’s credit score,” says “Each and every year, the dedicated committee work hard with three legs, and comes down Mayes. with four?" to put together an awesome Borrowers can negotiate and The lawyer uses his laptop to make a complaint through the program of events that caters to search all references he can find Australian Financial Complaints every interest and it just keeps on the Net. Authority if they believe the getting better.” He sends E-mails to all the smart bank has not considered their ‘I strongly encourage young friends he knows; all to no avail. offer. This will stop legal action people in our community to After an hour of searching, he while the complaint is being download or pick up a program finally gives up. considered. and take part this year. It’s all He wakes the senior and hands As a worst-case scenario, if the about trying him $500.00. The senior pockets something new the $500.00 and goes right back borrower, along with the bank, to sleep. is unable to come up with a and making new The lawyer is going nuts not resolution to keep the home, the knowing the answer. He wakes bank may give the borrower connections with other the senior up again and asks, time to sell the property. "Well, so what goes young people No matter which path is the up a hill with preferable one, the message to in your three legs and borrowers who are worried that community, which is so comes down with they may not be able to meet important,” added Cr Pynsent. four?" their mortgage commitments is Local young people can The senior to contact their bank, mortgage download the Youth Week 2020 reaches into broker or a financial counsellor program from Council’s website his pocket, as soon as they become aware at www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au/ hands the lawyer $5.00, and goes they are in potential trouble. YouthWeek and are encouraged to keep an eye on the CYCOS back to sleep. That’s the best way to contain any damage and get back on a Facebook page for updates at firm financial foundation. www.facebook.com/ CessnockYouthCentre/.

Patricia Ann Stephen Late of Lismore Formally of Branxton

Passed away peacefully on 3rd February 2020, aged 85years. Much loved Mother and Mother-in-Law to Dale, Melissa, Greg and Laura. Cherished Grandma Pat of Alexander, Matthew and Samuel. Loving Daughter of Victor (deceased) and Florence Byron (deceased) Loving Sister of Margo, Loving Aunt , and dear friend to many.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend a Celebration of Pat's Life on Saturday 14th March 2020 at the Everafter Chapel 43 High Street Greta NSW 2334 . Service commencing at 11.30am. 12 ͽ THE NEWS 449 WEDNESDAY 15 MARCH 2017 BRANXTONBRANXTON && VINEYARDSVINEYARDS REALREAL ESTATEESTATE For Sale P: 4938 3300 BRANXTON BRANXTON

OPEN HOUSE 14 Russell Street, Branxton NSW 2335 Three bedroom, 2 bathroom Family home Saturday 7th March 11am ~ 11:30am 3 good sized bedroom family home on large block just a 2 minute walk to the main street & across the road to Branxton Public School. Features include Two bathrooms, separate lounge-room, modern kitchen, dishwasher, split air-con system. All this on 970 square metre fully fenced block. INSPECTION RECOMMENDED Large modern family ASKING $399,000 $389,000 ono home This charming home is situated in NORTH ROTHBURY 14.65HA a sought after street in Branxton; STUNNING 36 ACRES BLANK CANVAS READY FOR YOUR DREAM HOME handy to schools, shops, golf club and Hunter expressway. This charming house has all the modern conveniences of today's living; good size bedrooms, of- fice, timber floors, lovely spa- cious kitchen to die for, modern bathroom and all this opens onto fantastic entertainment area which could cater for over 100 people. Extra unit at rear with own shower and toilet. Still plenty of room for the kids to play or park the van. Must inspect to see all ….

With optional potential home sites, the property has plenty of opportunity for a Asking $515,000 weekender country escape or unique rural lifestyle existence. Under a 2-hour drive from Sydney, approx. 70 min drive from the M1 interchange Wahroonga… Things You Will Love About This Escape Acreage… - Approx. 14.65 hectare (36.2 acre) rural holding with dwelling entitlement - Stunning views from elevated sites - Potential building sites - Unique lifestyle acreage - Abundant wildlife and native flora ASKING 745,000 NORTH ROTHBURY East Branxton Low Maintenance 2 Bedroom Unit Are you seeking your first home or maybe an investment. Well this is the opportunity to buy at a low price. A brick and tile two bedroom unit with a large open living area LOT 524 and large bedrooms. The property has its SOLD own private outdoor space and internal access to the garage. Updated Bathroom and Strata managed with low fees. It is currently tenanted at $260 per week. Situ- ated on a quiet street and conveniently Lots 521 & 523 Littlewood Road, located close to the Hunter Expressway Vacant blocks 4ha (10 acres) very private bush blocks. Fully Fenced & within minutes to Hunter Wine Country

ASKING: $420,000 each ASKING $275,000

NORTH BELFORD NORTH ROTHBURY ROTHBURY Vacant Building Block Vacant

Vacant building 2559m² building block Building Vacant Land with building approved A 809 square metre lot which is relatively flat; block ~ 809m² an easy build-on. Lot 1 DP 1205549 Wonderful views from the back to the north Vacant Building Block Well over half an acre of good level overlooking Huntlee & the mountains to the Blocks Fantastic visage block. north.

ASKING $160,000 ONO ASKING $135,000 ASKING $130,000 ono

formed high-visibility The officers will be any concerns from retail police unit. specifically trained in owners, to visitors, to THE NEWS| No. 515| Wednesday 5 Mar 2020 ͽ 13 In January 2019, the NSW intelligence gathering, so residents and workers. Government announced they can proactively “The Northern HVP Unit 100 new high-visibility identify conflicts ranging will have the ability to be officers to be stationed at from local level issues to deployed wherever our five regions across the more serious incidents. demand and need is. They state. In the Northern Re- Northern Region are highly-skilled and avail- Report gion, six officers will be Commander, Assistant able to engage with the posted at Newcastle Police Commissioner Max public – we want you to Station to service multiple Mitchell APM, said the come up and talk to them, police districts including high-visibility teams will be tell them what is happening For Sale the Hunter Valley. a reassuring presence on in your neighbourhood. The Northern High- Hunter streets, playing a “By targeting crime with BRANXTON Visibility Police (HVP) key role in disrupting crime more boots on the ground Unit is aimed at and anti-social behaviour. and in a highly-visible man- “SUTTON GROVE” New high- preventing, disrupting, and “High-visibility policing is ner, it’s hoped of- responding to crime by a crucial element of fenders will have second Something for visibility unit undertaking high-visibility regional policing – we want thoughts before breaking hits the ground patrols of crime hotspots, our communities to know the law,” AC Mitchell said. everyone roads, transport networks, we are there in numbers to The HVP officers can be As you enter this lovely in the Hunter local neighbourhoods, and protect and support them deployed to any areas of the family estate you will and Central planned events. 24/7. Northern Region as deemed see wide open spaces. 5 The HVP Unit will “Local policing is at the appropriate. good size bedrooms, all Coast proactively engage with heart of any regional The Northern HVP Unit Residents of the Hunter will individuals, groups and community, and the HVP consists of one Sergeant with built-ins & main see a more visible police communities at risk of Unit is designed to increase and five Constables; the with walk-in robe & presence on their streets crime in an effort to build overall confidence for all officers commenced their ensuite. from this month, with the intelligence-driven data. members of the first foot patrols last week. There are multiple commencement of a newly community, by addressing living areas with a large Draft Climate Change Policy to go on public exhibition covered decking off the family area & covered In an effort to address the average fire weather is risks within the local Policy, provide feedback and changing climate affecting the projected to increase in government area. be part of the process,” added BBQ area. Cessnock Local Government summer, spring and winter, * Supporting community Cr Pynsent. Other features include Area, Council has developed with severe fire weather initiatives to deal with climate Following the adoption of the ducted air conditioning, a draft Climate Change projected to increase in change. Policy Council will work with Policy. The community are summer and spring. * Ensuring environmental the community to develop a all gas cooking, 18 encouraged to provide feed- This draft Climate Change risks are managed. Climate Change Strategy by metre shed with toilet & back on the Policy during the Policy proposes that Council * Providing direction on June 2021. This will address 3-phase power, lovely public exhibition period. The adopt the target of achieving climate change for Council climate change mitigation and draft Climate Change Policy zero net emissions by 2050, and the community. adaptation, and will identify gardens, water tank & will be on public exhibition which is consistent with the Cessnock City Mayor, actions that Council can dam. from the 26 February until the NSW Government’s target. Councillor Bob Pynsent said undertake to build climate All this on .8HA 25 March 2020. At a local level, this draft this policy is a positive step in resilience within our The development of the Policy will provide a the right direction and we community. The adoption of (Approx 2 acres) Policy is in response to the framework for Council to should all work together as a the draft Policy and PRICE RANGE $779,000 to $819,000 Australian Government and investigate the appropriate community. subsequent Climate Change NSW Government making actions for addressing climate “We must recognise the Strategy will pave the way for formal commitments to change as an organisation, importance of shared long term financial benefits reduce Greenhouse Gas while also encouraging the responsibility in addressing for Council in terms of BRANXTON & VINEYARDS Emissions. The NSW region as a whole to act. this issue and building income generation and cost BRANXTON & VINEYARDS Government has set NSW the Some key objectives include: community resilience. savings. They will also allow target of achieving zero net * Enabling Council to align Individuals, businesses and Council to apply for grants REAL ESTATE emissions by 2050. its operational and strategic all levels of government play related to climate change that The Hunter Climate Change planning with NSW policy. a role in reducing the can be used to upgrade M: 0412 566 041 P: 4938 3300 Snapshot prepared by the * Providing a whole of damaging impacts of climate infrastructure within our NSW Government shows, Council commitment to change. I encourage local community. amongst other impacts, that managing climate change residents to view the draft 12 ͽ THE NEWS 449 WEDNESDAY 15 MARCH 2017 BRANXTONBRANXTON && VINEYARDSVINEYARDS REALREAL ESTATEESTATE For Sale P: 4938 3300 NORTH ROTHBURY A large family home with everything you could ask for

Features include 3 good sized bedrooms all with builtins, open plan living; sitting room, dining room, modern kitchen, separate lounge room & ensuite to main. The living area opens onto outside entertainment area deck. Large carport & large shed completes the true

picture.

ASKING $439,000

14 ͽ |THE NEWS | No. 515 | Wed 5 Mar 2020

Newcastle Writers’ Festival is returning to Cessnock! Have your say Daily Thoughts My mother drew a distinction between achievement and the people and experiences Strategic Plan, success. She said that that have shaped him, and Cessnock Cycling 'achievement is the knowledge the power of faith to sustain Strategy, Aquatic that you have studied and worked hard and done the best us in the face of the world’s Needs Analysis, that is in you. Success is being biggest issues. Skate and BMX praised by others and that's Tim Costello is one of Needs Assessment, nice too, but not as important Australia’s leading voices Cessnock LGA or satisfying. Always aim for achievement and forget about on social justice and global Traffic and success.'" --Helen Hayes poverty, and has been Transport Strategy Believe, when you are most instrumental in ensuring and Community unhappy, that there is some- thing for you to do in the world. these issues are placed on Infrastructure So long as you can sweeten the national and Strategic Plan. another's pain, life is not in international agenda. He For those wanting vain. --Helen Keller travelled the world for work to view the draft If there is one thing upon this Earth that mankind love and in poverty alleviation and Local residents now have development contribution City Wide Infrastructure admire better than another, it is emergency relief as he led the opportunity to provide plans currently imple- Contribution Plan, it will a brave man. It is the man who World Vision in Australia feedback on the draft City mented by Cessnock City be made available on dares to look the devil in the face and tell him he is a devil. - for 13 years. Wide Infrastructure Council and once adopted, Council’s website at -James A. Garfield Tim is an ordained Baptist Contributions Plan which is it will replace all existing www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au, Enjoyment is not a goal. It is a minister and had years on public exhibition until Section 7.11 (formerly at Cessnock City Libraries feeling that accompanies building community and the 19th March, 2020. Section 94) plans into one. and Council’s Customer important ongoing activity. --Paul Goodman addressing issues of justice The draft Plan aims to It also aligns with Council's Service Centre. in St Kilda and Melbourne. provide a basis for the Recreation and Open Space ͽPhoto above: Huntlee New Town Tim was named in the levying and collection of Australian of the Year development contributions Cessnock City Council is be a part of this fantastic awards in 2006 and was for the provision of things thrilled to welcome the celebration of writers and made an Officer of the like road maintenance and 2020 Newcastle Writers welcome visitors to our Order of Australia in 2005. upgrades, cycleways, Festival back to Cessnock local government area.” His bestselling books community facilities, for the third time as the Local school students will include Hope, Faith, Streets recreation and sporting Festival teams up with be lucky enough to meet of Hope, Tips from a facilities and open space. Cessnock City Library and hear from acclaimed Travelling Soul Searcher Section 7.11 of the and Cessnock Performing Australian children’s and, most recently, his Environmental Planning Arts Centre (CPAC) to authors Frances Watts, memoir A Lot with a Little. and Assessment Act 1979 host a prestigious author Tony Flowers and Tania This event will be hosted by (EP&A Act) enables event and popular McCartney as they visit Paul Bevan. Paul has Council to levy children’s author pro- nine local school locations, worked in radio for 20 contributions on gram in local schools. attended by a total of 22 years producing and development to assist in the schools as part of the presenting current affairs cost of providing the com- Cessnock City Mayor, Festival’s Schools programs on 1233 ABC munity with public ameni- Councillor Bob Pynsent Program. The visiting Newcastle. ties, facilities and services said it’s an amazing writers will perform their Tickets to A Lot with a that are required as a result opportunity for Cessnock work, talk about their craft Little: Tim Costello are $25 of demand created by that and looks forward to and take questions offering and available by contacting development. Council working again with local students a unique and Cessnock Performing Arts Cessnock City Mayor, the Newcastle Writers creative learning Centre on 4993 4266. Tim Councillor Bob Pynsent is Festival. experience. Costello will also be encouraging local residents “The festival started in On Saturday afternoon 4 signing books, which can to review the draft Plan and 2013 and last year boasted April, from 3 to 4pm, A Lot be purchased for $40 provide their feedback. 120 events enjoyed by with a Little: Tim Costello (hardcover) after the event. “New development is around over 12 000 visitors, will be held at the CPAC. positive for our region but including 3 000 school Tim Costello will discuss ■ Photo above: Rev. Tim Costello it’s important that there’s a children. We’re excited to OAM balance and ratepayers aren’t burdened by the cost of infrastructure generated by it.” “This Plan will streamline all existing documents into one new complete plan and will provide more up to date information on development contributions moving forward,” added Cr Pynsent. Match times to be confirmed closer to match days This draft Plan is the culmination of a complete review of all the existing BRANXTON CROQUET CLUB IMPROVE YOUR BODY AND MIND SATURDAY AND TUESDAY FROM Greta Museum 9a.m. Continues to open and exhibit John Rose Avenue, Branxton Army and Migrant Camp photos (turn left on New England Highway at and memorabilia, as well as coal mining, sporting and some first traffic lights in Branxton) family histories, and artefacts, All welcome. from the local area’s past. For further information on this great no-contact sport go ahead and Open each Wednesday and contact Chris Robertson, Secretary Saturday 11am – 3pm at 96 High Street, Greta, in the former Greta Council 0418 427 320/6574 7194 Chambers.

we begin not with a death but a centre of the town’s attention — a suburban utopia might strike to have within their sight a that innocent delusion. Who house fire, and new questions: Who 1-year-old girl who is wanted by some as a quaint fantasy, but post-racial America. “I set the little fires set it, and why? both her Chinese immigrant mother this is the ’90s, after all. Post mean, we’re lucky,” says everywhere? The house belongs to Elena and Bill and the white couple who has raised -9/11, post-Obama, in the age the blond Lexie, whose Richardson, a wealthy white couple the baby. of Trump and Black Lives boyfriend is black. “No one who epitomize success in picture- It’s this vast and complex network of Matter, we may know better, sees race here.” perfect, late-’90s Shaker Heights, moral affiliations — and the nuanced but Ng reminds us that 20 The magic of this novel We keep reading to find and their four teenage children, omniscient voice that Ng employs to years ago, in the age of lies in its power to out, even as we suspect that including girl-next-door Lexie and navigate it — that make this novel AltaVista, pagers and Sir implicate all of its it could be us with ash on the troubled prankster Izzy, who is even more ambitious and Mix-a-Lot, some who voted characters — and likely our hands. suspected of arson. “The firemen accomplished than her debut. If for another Clinton claimed many of its readers — in said there were little fires every- occasionally the story strains beneath where,” Lexie says. “Multiple points this undertaking — if we hear the The New York Times Best Sellers of origin. Possible use of accelerant. squeaky creak of a plot twist or if a (5 March February 2020) Not an accident.” But Izzy isn’t the character is too conveniently only one who seems to have fled the introduced — we hardly mind, for Combined Print & E-Book Fiction scene. Mia Warren and her 15-year- our trusty narrator is as powerful and 1. New this week ~ ONE MINUTE OUT by Mark Greaney. The ninth book in the Gray Man series. Court old daughter, Pearl, have also persuasive and delightfully clever as Gentry tries to stop the head of a group trafficking women and children. disappeared, vacating the small the narrator in a Victorian novel. As 2. 5 weeks on the list ~ AMERICAN DIRT by Jeanine Cummins. A bookseller flees Mexico for the United States with her son while pursued by the house they rented from the soon as we meet our matriarch — head of a drug cartel. In a Quiet Ohio Town, Richardsons. And so Ng again “Mrs. Richardson stood on the tree 3. 76 weeks on the list ~ WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING by Delia Owens. In a quiet town on the North returns to the past for answers. lawn, clutching the neck of her pale Carolina coast in 1969, a young woman who survived alone in the marsh becomes a murder suspect. Who Started the Fire, It’s Mia and Pearl’s arrival in town blue robe closed” — we have the 4. 54 weeks on the list ~ LITTLE FIRES EVERYWHERE and Why? 11 months earlier that ignites the sneaky sense that our well-mannered by Celeste Ng. An artist upends a quiet town outside Cleveland. story. Mia is an alluring Hester narrator is speaking from both within 5. New this week ~ CHASING CASSANDRA by Lisa Kleypas. The sixth book in the Ravenels series. By Eleanor Henderson Cassandra teaches a railway magnate a lesson. Prynne, a misfit nomad whose scarlet and above the order-obsessed Readers of Celeste Ng’s second A might stand for Artist. She and neighborhood. Combined Print & E-Book Nonfiction novel, “Little Fires Everywhere,” 1. 7 weeks on the list THE MAMBA MENTALITY by Kobe Bryant. Various skills and techniques used on the Pearl have traveled the country in But as Mrs. Richardson — rarely court by the late Los Angeles Lakers player. will recognize a few elements from their VW Rabbit with little more than “Elena” — struggles to keep her 2. New this week DARK TOWERS by David Enrich. The New York Times finance editor traces the history her acclaimed debut, “Everything Mia’s camera, living in dozens of household in order, the narrator and illicit dealings of Deutsche Bank. I Never Told You.” There are the towns before settling in Shaker begins to shapeshift, surprising us 3. 3 weeks on the list OPEN BOOK by Jessica Simpson with Kevin Carr O’Leary. The singer, actress and simmering racial tensions and Heights, where Mia promises her with the expansion of her powers. Ng fashion designer discloses times of success, trauma and addiction. incendiary family dynamics daughter they will stay. Pearl, doesn’t miss an opportunity to linger 4. 5 weeks on the list A VERY STABLE GENIUS beneath the surface of a quiet longing to belong, quickly becomes a over a minor character, even those by Philip Rucker and Carol Leonnig. The Pulitzer Prize-winning journalists use firsthand accounts to chart Ohio town. There are the appeal fixture in the Richardsons’ home, we meet for only a moment (the patterns of behaviour within the Trump administration. and impossibility of assimilation, 5. New this week UN-TRUMPING AMERICA by Dan Pfeiffer. A former senior advisor to President Obama entangling her mother along with neighbor, the doorman, the bailiff) offers suggestions for Democrats. the all-consuming force of mother- her. whose voices might otherwise be hood and the secret lives of Witnessing these two families as rendered in parentheses. At the same teenagers and their parents, each they commingle and clash is an time, she offers a nuanced and unknowable to the other. utterly engrossing, often heartbreak- sympathetic portrait of those terrified And there’s a familiar frame, too: At ing, deeply empathetic experience, of losing power. It is a thrillingly each novel’s opening, we know at not unlike watching a neighbour’s democratic use of omniscience, and, least part of the tragedy that will house burn. And the spectacle for a novel about class, race, family befall the characters — the mystery doesn’t stop with the Richardsons and the dangers of the status quo, lies in figuring out how they got and Warrens. Ng also introduces a brilliantly apt. there. In “Little Fires Everywhere,” custody battle that becomes the Mrs. Richardson’s vision of a from Hong Kong in the school at University of also was an editor of blogs late 60's. Her father, who Michigan where she earned at the website Fiction died in 2004, was a her Master of Fine Arts in Writers Review for three physicist at NASA in the writing, now the Helen Zell years. John H Glenn Research Writers’ Program. While Her debut novel, Centre (formally known as attending the University of Everything I Never Told the NASA Lewis Research Michigan, Ng won the You: A Novel, is a literary Centre). Celeste’s mother Hopwood Award for her thriller that focuses on an was a chemist who taught short story, What Passes American family in 1970s at Cleveland State Over. Ohio. The novel had four University. Ng now lives in drafts and one revision ABOUT …. When Ng was ten she Cambridge, Massachusetts, before completion, which moved from Pittsburgh to with her husband and son. took 6 years. While Celeste Ng Shaker Heights, Ohio with While on a book tour for working on her first novel, Celeste Ng (Chinese her parents and sister (who Everything I Never Told Celeste Ng stated that she Name: 伍綺詩) is an is now an engineer). She You, Ng stated that her pulled from her own American writer and attended the schools in the favourite book when she experiences of racism as novelist. She has released Shaker Heights City was little was Harriet the well as her family and many short stories that School District, from Spy. Currently her friends. The book, which have been published in a Woodbury elementary all favourite book is The God the Los Angeles Times variety of literary journals. the way up to Shaker of Small Things by described as an "excellent Ng's first novel, Everything Heights High School. Arundhati Roy. first novel about family, I Never Told You, was While attending Shaker Career[ love, and ambition," won released on June 26, 2014 Heights High school, Ng Ng was a recipient of the Amazon book of the year and has won many awards, was involved with the Pushcart Prize in 2012 for in 2014. Everything I such as Amazon Book of student group on race her story Girls, At Play. Never Told You has also the Year as well as praise relations for three years as Ng's fiction has appeared in translated into 15 from critics. Ng's short well as being a co-editor of One Story, TriQuarterly, languages. story Girls at Play won a the schools literary Subtropics, and more. Her Ng's second novel, Little Pushcart Prize in 2012. Her magazine, Semanteme. essays have appeared in Fires Everywhere, is set in most recent novel is Little She graduated from high Kenyon Review Online, Shaker Heights, Ohio, and Fires Everywhere. school in 1998. The Millions, and else- follows two families, one Early life and education After graduating high where. Ng taught writing at being a mother and Celeste Ng was born in school, Ng went on to the University of Michigan, daughter, that challenges Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. study English at Harvard. and she has also taught at the boundaries in the town. Celeste Ng's parents moved She then attended graduate Grub Street in Boston. Ng 17 ͽ | THE NEWS | No. 515 | WEDNESDAY 4 Mar 2020

What’s on & More …. TRAVELLING STOCK RESERVE LEASES EXTENDED FOR HUNTER PRODUCERS To support local farmers contending Detailed Cattle report for Gunnedah with a third year of Last reported 25th February 2020 continued drought There was a reduced penning, with yearlings and cows well represented. The quality and condition of the offering was fair conditions, Hunter to good. Restockers were well catered for with good supplies of light weight young cattle. There was reduced processor Local Land competition. There was also reduced restocker and feedlot competition. Despite the reduced competition, demand for young Services has cattle was again high from restockers. The steers particularly so, with heifers also well supported. Steer vealers sold to a further extended significantly dearer trend. Light weight yearling steers to restockers were also substantially dearer, with some quality Long-term Grazing related price changes either way. The heavy steers saw a firm to slightly dearer price trend. There was little but quality Permits for the related price changes through the yearling heifers. Both breed and quality factors. The limited supply of heavy grown steers majority of sold to a slightly cheaper trend. Cows also sold to cheaper trends, however there was not a lot in it. Some quality related price changes at the top. There was reduced restocker competition on the plain condition cows. Heavy bulls saw a firm to Travelling Stock cheaper market trend. Once again quality was a factor in the price change. Reserves (TSRs) in Detailed Cattle report for HRLX Singleton our region. Last reported 26th February 2020 Permit holders Consignments lifted, while the quality remained mixed, with some well-bred younger cattle along with some very plain have been offered a mixed breeds in the yarding. The majority were suitable for the lot feeder and restocker orders, with numbers of prime 12 month conditioned younger cattle spread throughout the market. There were approximately 60 cows in the penning. The market extension, to the trend on average was dearer, with only breed and quality in places contributing to any negative prices. The vealer steers end of 2020 – sold to strong competition, however failed to reach the high prices recorded at the previous market, this was mainly breed where conditions related, with prices ranging from 388c to 496c/kg. The over 200kg vealer heifers to the restockers and backgrounder orders on the TSRs allow. gained 15c and sold from 368c to 405c, as the better bred lighter end reached 450c/kg. Light weight yearling steers to the It’s the second year restockers lifted 12c to 20c, as the medium weights to the feeders gained 8c and made from 370c to 402c, while the light in a row drought weights reached 450c/kg. The yearling heifers to the restocker and lot feeder orders trended 15c to 20c dearer, with the conditions has led better end topping at 394c, before averaging 369c to 372c/kg. The prime conditioned younger cattle suitable for the local to the offer of butchers again sold to strong competition, with some carrying plenty of weight, with prices reaching 394c/kg. The grown extensions to steers trended dearer, with the restockers and lot feeders paying from 280c to 376c/kg to secure their selections. Restockers existing permit contributed to the light weight plainer cows trending dearer, as the better covered heavy weights improved 10c and sold holders. from 275c to 286c/kg. The same Detailed Cattle report for Scone extension will Last reported 25th February 2020 apply to Short-term Numbers increased five fold compared to the last rain affected market, and the quality on average was fair to good. The Grazing Permits; Long-TermGrazing Permits on Hunter region TSRs have been extended as vealers were limited in supply, while good runs of the yearlings suitable for the feeder orders were offered. There were pens of high yielding cows, together with the plain quality drafts in the market. Due to the low numbers presented at the last however, Hunter part of Hunter Local Land Services drought assistance to local producers. market reliable quotes were difficult to obtain, however overall this was the dearest sale in this market reporters 16 year Local Land career. Calves ranged from 348c to 478c/kg. The vealer steers to the restockers made from 394c to 470c/kg. Vealer heifers Services will be reverting to the former practice of issuing these permits on a also restocker orders made from 386c to 398c/kg. The medium weight yearling steers to the feeder orders sold from 358c to month by month basis. 402c, and the light weight end reached 428c/kg. Medium weight yearling heifers to feeder orders made from 368c to 384c, General Manager Brett Miners said it’s one of the ways the organisation can take while the feature of the market was a large run of 60 European cross yearling heifers relocating to the Merriwa area, and some pressure off producers, as well as ensure best practice management of these made to 420c/kg. The prime conditioned young cattle to the butchers reached 390c/kg. The older heifers sold at a premium, public assets. with the restockers keen to secure future breeders, these sold from 328c to 384c/kg, depending on dentition. Cows continue “We understand the major impact the drought continues to have on local producers to trade at high prices, with the plain condition drafts to processors making from 255c to 286c, depending on weight, and in our region,” said Mr Miners. the better covered heavy weights made from 281c to 301c/kg. The best heavy bull carrying plenty of weight reached 315c/kg. “By extending the TSR leases, we hope we removed an unnecessary stress and Detailed Cattle report for TRLX Tamworth workload for local farmers at a time when pressures were already heightened.” Last reported 24th February 2020 Hunter Local Land Services is thankful to the permit holders for the way they have Numbers almost halved with feed stocks on the improve. There was a fair selection of young cattle along with some very been carefully managing feed and water supplies on the reserves. good heavy trade and export lots. Overall the quality was fair to good, as was condition, improving in some cases. “We are committed to the effective management of our Hunter TSRs and, as Restocker demand was again high. There was a reduced feedlot and restocker presence, while competition was not as strong groundcover and pasture species diversity are the primary indicators of biological for heavy trade and export cattle. Market trends for vealer steers to restockers experienced little but quality related price health on these reserves, it’s important we continuously assess their condition,” change. The heifer portion sold to dearer trends with some buyers prefering that option over the higher priced steers. Light said Mr Miners. weight yearling steers sold on a firm to slightly cheaper trend, while medium and heavy weights to feed followed a similar “Nearing the end of long and short term grazing permit lease periods in 2019, our trend. The reduced feedlot and restocker competition combined with a variation in quality resulted in cheaper trends for Officers inspected each TSR to determine the biological health of each and this those required for further finishing. There was little change in the market for well finished heavy trade heifers. Heavy resulted in numerous lease extensions and a handful of lease suspensions due to grown steers saw a firm to slightly cheaper market trend. There were odd dearer sales in the heavy grown heifers, mostly degraded conditions.” dentition related. Trends were slightly cheaper through the cow market with quality not quite as good in the heavy weights. It is up to each permit holder to decide if they wish to accept the extension, and Restockers were again keen to purchase plainer condition cows. Hunter Local Land Services is reminding all permit holders payment plans are available at any time, if they require financial assistance. upwards from May, not good that the Indian Ocean Dipole Opportunities for reinstatement of long and short term grazing permits may occur for rain, and then the negative has recently assumed this after a significant improvement in the season, when the biological health of these reading, good for rain, kicking role, especially over the Racing Review & News reserves have substantially improved. in about December. This is more immediate time period. If you have any questions regarding TSRs in the Hunter region, please contact TSR when the Monsoon season El Nino / La Nina is a harder Derby winner off to Sydney by Ben Dorries Team Leader, Luke Booth on 0408 681 576. starts in the northern part of indicator to gain a good un- Australia. There is a long term derstanding but relates to the The 2018 Australian Derby running in the Group I graph that can be easily Pacific Ocean temperature winner Levendi is off to race Australian Cup and he will Weather Patterns explained by Alan Humphreys accessed on the BOM site. and is highly relevant for the in Sydney with his training be sent over the border to The readings have a see saw East Coast of Australia & the team insisting "recent track Sydney to race where the impact with the eastern side of West Coast of America. El bias and firm tracks" in tracks have more give. the Indian Ocean having the Nino is when the Pacific Melbourne have worked I spoke to stable manager opposite reading to the west Ocean off Australia is cool & against him regaining his Manny Gelagotis and he said and is based upon ocean evaporation is limited, as is best form. the issue was not so much temperatures. A warmer rainfall. La Nina is when the Levendi, trained by Peter about Levendi. How to Read the Weather: * 28 day rain forecast. forecast, then 3 month eastern side of the Indian Pacific Ocean off Australia is Gelagotis, returned to racing He was not looking for There are a number of simple Whilst this information is outlook & finally outlook Ocean means increased warm meaning more evapo- late last year after successive excuses for Levendi and tools people can use to sourced from BOM the best scenarios. likelihood of rain, due to ration & thus higher rainfall. leg issues kept the stallion conceded the comeback ascertain weather patterns, data is obtained via * Indian Ocean Dipole. increased evaporation. Feel free to phone or email on a long road of galloper was not at the peak both current & into the Weatherzone, Elders or This aspect has only been The Southern Part of Australia, me for further explanation. rehabilitation since his 2018 of his former powers. future. This article relates to Farmonline & has a simple seriously researched over South Australia, Victoria & Alan Humphreys, Derby win. However he said it was the East Coast of Australia, NSW regional map from the past 20 years & it only Tasmania is influenced by the M: 0427381311. However, he has failed to impossible to get an accurate especially the Hunter Valley. which you can select your came in to vogue for flatter in two runs this year. guide on how Levendi was Southern Annular Mode, aka They said it …. The main weather tools are area, which provides a reporting purposes over the SAM. Levendi ran fifth behind going, considering he was as follows. prediction of the likelihood past 4 years. It is highly Long Term: Miss Siska in the Carlyon having to be ridden forward Short Term: of rain for the next 4 weeks relevant for the Northern * ENSO, the full name is El "If you look at what you have Cup before finishing second because of track bias and * 7 day weather forecast. & has a reasonable degree of Region & East Coast of Nino Southern Oscillation. The in life, you'll always have last in the Peter Young hard tracks. This information can be accuracy. Australia. A positive “ENSO Wrap-Up” is produced more. If you look at what you Stakes at Caulfield. Levendi's finest moment was don't have in life, you'll never obtained from various Mid Term: reading higher than 0.4 fortnightly by the Bureau of However on both occasions, when he swept home from sources including The * 3 month weather forecast. reduces the likelihood of have enough." -Oprah Winfrey the Gelagotis team claim 11th to win the Australian Meteorology & is easy to "The way to get started is to Bureau of Meteorology This is a BOM service and rain whilst a reading less access, simply by typing they had their hand forced Derby in April 2018. (BOM), Weatherzone and works off computer models than 0.4 is good. This quit talking and begin into riding Levendi out of The Caulfield track bias was ENSO in to your search app. doing." -Walt Disney other networks. The & historical data. influence usually runs a * El Nino / La Nina was once his comfort zone, sending a major issue with eight of computer models are highly This information is obtained cycle of 7 months from "The greatest glory in living him forward because of the nine races on Blue considered the most important lies not in never falling, but in accurate for the immediate 4 by accessing the BOM May to December with a track bias and firm tracks. Diamond day won by indicator for rainfall in Austra- rising every time we fall." - days. website, then rainfall positive reading running lia but I would venture to say Nelson Mandela They say he won't be on-pacers

THE GENTLEMEN .THE GENTLEMEN follows American expat Mickey Pearson Toll Group recovers after ransomware attack (Matthew McConaughey) who built a highly profitable marijuana Company resorts to manual processes. empire in London. When word gets out that he's looking to cash by Casey Tonkin out of the business forever it triggers plots, schemes, bribery and blackmail in an attempt to steal his domain out from under him. Directed & written by: Guy Ritchie

GUY RITCHIE IS READY TO STOP BEING GENTLE WITH THE GENTLEMEN ASHER LUBERTO JANUARY 27, 2020

Australian courier and also been known as Net- encrypted data will usually verify your backups regularly. logistics company, Toll walker after a related remain encrypted and If your computer becomes Group, is gradually decrypter bearing that unavailable to the victim. infected with ransomware, returning to its usual name was found by Even after a ransom has been you can restore your system to operations after a ransom- malware researchers. paid to unlock encrypted its previous state using your ware attack devastated its The ransomware is still files, threat actors will backups. IT systems in late January new, with early sightings sometimes demand Store your backups this year. of it going back additional payments, delete a separately. Best practice is to Toll has regularly up- to October last year. victim’s data, refuse to store your backups on a dated its customers with Self-proclaimed Ethical decrypt the data, or decline separate device that cannot be information about the cyber hacker, Vitali Kremez, to provide a working accessed from a network, such incident that disrupted told Bleeping decryption key to restore the as on an external hard drive. business. Computer that the Mailto/ victim’s access. The Federal Once the backup is completed, Government does not make sure to disconnect the “We became of the issue on Netwalker ransomware support paying ransomware external hard drive, or Friday 31 January and, as has “one of the more demands. separate device from the Just about everybody will soon as it came to light, we granular and more How does ransomware network or computer. enjoy the performances, moved quickly to disable sophisticated work? Train your though. These may not be the relevant systems and configurations observed”. Ransomware identifies the organization. Organizations initiate a detailed It is thus far unknown drives on an infected system should ensure that they the most relatable charac- investigation to understand whether or not files and begins to encrypt the provide cybersecurity ters or even people we the cause and put in place encrypted by Mailto/ files within each drive. awareness training to their want to root for (Pearson is measures to deal with it,” Netwalker can be Ransomware generally adds personnel. Ideally, the protagonist, even Toll said. decrypted, or how easy an extension to the encrypted organizations will have though he runs a drug ring, After locking down affected that task is. files, such regular, mandatory As The Gentlemen opens, marks a return to his prima while blackmailer Fletcher systems, Toll was forced to The attack on Toll is the as .aaa, .micro, .encrypted, .tt cybersecurity awareness you can practically smell donna days (his literal is supposed to be the an- rely on “a combination of first known case of t, .xyz, .zzz, .locky, .crypt, .c training sessions to ensure the cigar smoke and taste pre-Madonna days), when tagonist, even while his automated and manual Mailto/Netwalker taking ryptolocker, .vault, or .petya, their personnel are informed the bourbon marinating in his flair and flamboyant twisted narration makes the processes” to continue on enterprise-level to show that the files have about current cybersecurity the room, as two lads are style was front and centre. story fun). Grant, who operating. systems. been encrypted—the file threats and threat actor chatting next to a crackling Fletcher kicks off his story famously starred in rom- “We have also increased Although Toll appears to extension used is unique to techniques. To improve fire. On one side of the with Ray’s boss, Micky coms like Love Actually in staffing at our contact have mitigated the effects the ransomware type. workforce awareness, room is Ray (Charlie Pearson (Matthew the 2000’s, has been play- centres to assist with on its business operations, Once the ransomware has organizations can test their Hunnam), the right-hand McConaughey), a drug ing against type as of late. customer service,” Toll ransomware can be completed file encryption, it personnel with phishing man of a drug lord. On the dealer with enough pot to Between this said. absolutely crippling for creates and displays a file or assessments that simulate real- other side is Fletcher smoke out an entire city. and Paddington 2, the files containing instructions world phishing emails. “Notwithstanding the fact businesses. (Hugh Grant), a reporter Pearson wants to expand actor has nailed the role of on how the victim can pay What can I do to prevent services are being provided Recently, global currency hoping to blackmail him. his business by buying sardonically sassy villain. the ransom. If the victim ransomware infections? largely as normal, some exchange Travelex was The two trade insults until land from a local gentry, Every situation that falls pays the ransom, the threat Update and patch your Fletcher reflexively asks, but he also needs someone on McConaughey makes customers are experiencing knocked offline by what actor may provide a computer. Ensure your “Can I tell you a story?” to buyout his company so an impression, much like delays or disruption and it initially referred to as a cryptographic key that the applications and operating we’re working to address ‘virus’. victim can use to unlock the systems (OSs) have been The story makes up the he can eventually leave the cement. Whether his king- these issues as we focus on A week after first going files, making them updated with the latest movie’s plot, which was game for good. This pin is shooting hoodlums bringing our regular IT down, Travelex re- accessible. patches. Vulnerable written and directed by sparks a bidding war in the crotch or rambling systems back online vealed it had been hit by How is ransomware applications and OSs are the Guy Ritchie, and is told in between a posh business about how he’s the king of securely.” the Sodinokibi delivered? target of most ransomware flashback sequences man (Jeremy Strong) and the jungle, he tackles each The transportation company ransomware. Ransomware is commonly attacks. brimming with colourful an angry scene with the same laid- confirmed that it was Many of Travelex’s web- delivered through phishing Use caution with links and characters and intoxicating “Chinaman” (Henry back swagger that makes infected by a strain of the sites are still down more emails or via “drive-by when entering website action. Golding), which turns into his Lincoln commercials Mailto ransomware and has than a month later. downloads.” Phishing emails addresses. Be careful when The story of Ritchie’s an all-out-war when a hard to resist. Colin Farrell shared samples of the Security Tip ~ often appear as though they clicking directly on links in career has been one of ups hybrid strain of weed is also charms in a brief malicious software with have been sent from a emails, even if the sender and downs, of course. His stolen. cameo, and Hunnam is “law enforcement, the Protecting legitimate organization or appears to be someone you popularity took off faster Combining aspects from terrific as Ray. Australian Cyber Security Against someone known to the victim know. Attempt to independ- than a speeding bullet the gangster and whodunit And the more these charac- Centre, and cyber security Ransomware and entice the user to click ently verify website addresses when Lock, Stock and Two genres, The Gentle- ter’s cause conflict, the organisations” to help on a malicious link or open a (e.g., contact your organiza- Smoking Barrels was men offers plenty of twists more Ritchie indulges in identify and limit the What is malicious attachment. A tion's helpdesk, search the released in 1998, and was and turns, and it’s enthrall- his stylized techniques. potential of future ransomware? “drive-by download” is a internet for the sender solidified with Snatch in ing to watch Ritchie return There’s freeze frames, program that is automatically organization’s website or the infections. Ransomware is a type of 2000. The director made a to his provocative roots flash forwards, unreliable downloaded from the topic mentioned in the email). The company also said malware threat actors use name for himself with with the material. People narrators, aspect ratio internet without the user’s Pay attention to the website to infect computers and these electrifying gangster are thrown off balconies changes, film stock and gel there has “no indication that consent or often without their addresses you click on, as well encrypt computer files yarns. Then he married and heads are hacked off. change-ups; in one shot, a any personal data has been knowledge. It is possible the as those you enter yourself. until a ransom is paid. Madonna. The couple Characters use every curse roundhouse kick connects lost” in the attack but it has malicious code may run after Malicious website addresses (See Protecting Against not yet explained how the download, without user inter- often appear almost identical divorced back in 2008, but word imaginable, and then with the camera, leaving Malicious Code for more ransomware came to infect action. After the malicious to legitimate sites, often using for whatever reason, his make up more once they the lens cracked for the information on malware.) its systems. code has been run, the a slight variation in spelling or career never recovered. run out of things to say. remainder of the scene. It’s After the initial infection, Toll has no intention of computer becomes infected a different domain He’s made boring block- Some will find the the sort of showmanship ransomware will attempt to paying the ransom, with ransomware. (e.g., .com instead of .net). buster after boring block- crudeness off-putting, that audiences have grown spread to connected according to the Australian What can I do to protect buster (Sherlock while others will find it to expect from Tarantino, systems, including shared  Open email attach- Financial Review. my data and networks? Holmes, Aladdin) ever refreshing at a time when and it incites a similar storage drives and other ments with caution. Be wary since. The good news is R-rated comedies are crazed energy here, sug- So named because it locks accessible computers.  Back up your of opening email attachments, that the director is back to nearly extinct within the gesting Ritchie is ready to affected files into an If the threat actor’s ransom computer. Perform frequent even from senders you think his devilish old tricks hypersensitive cultural steer his career back in a unusable ‘mailto’ format, demands are not met (i.e., backups of your system and you know, particularly when the Mailto ransomware has if the victim does not pay other important files, and attachments are compressed in The Gentleman, and it landscape. blood soaked direction the ransom), the files or files or ZIP files. Cont p. 20 that’s anything but gentle.

If Arndt knows what chivalry is, THE NEWS | No.515 | WEDNESDAY 5 Mar 2020 ͽ 19 You can e-mail, fax or simply drop your WD or  she'll give her Order of Australia NSWD into our office:- 12 Clift Street, Branxton or NOT SO Fax: 4938 3301 or back and E-mail: [email protected] By Wendy Tuohy All contributions welcome Daily Life editor I refer to the attack on Steve’s Rant in the last issue of The News ~ Attenborough is a left wing journalist Not a Climate scientist. Has no degree in science. Bonny Prince Charles has an Arts degree and doesn’t get his hands dirty on anything just his mouth. Al Gore the proverbial “Snake Oil Salesman” is a journalist, dropped out of law school & has No scientific qualifications. And our dear little 17 year old ‘school dropout’ Greta Thunberg left school to become the face of climate activism. None of the these people have serious qualifications in environmental science or climate change science but just mouth pieces for the left. to the mean spirited person/s who appear to have great delight in waking up the neighbourhood on Friday & Saturday nights after obviously having a skinful of alcohol. You live in a community that houses many people from different walks of life who, in some cases, work odd & differing hours & they need to be able to get some sleep. Please be more thoughtful! (I put this same un-smiley face in a couple of years ago ~ nothings changed!) a little whinge ~ I see that the Scone by-pass has been opened at a cost of $137m for 5kms. Surely, in the whole scheme of things, the Singleton by-pass should have had priority over this. I travel from Nth Rothbury to Singleton every morning & it is a torture! how fortunate are we to have a swimming pool at our door step! Thanks to Bruce and Glenn and the staff for ensuring our safety and the cleanliness of the water and facility. Well done to the Branxton Greta Swimming Club committee and members and Millie of Aqua Zumba for providing the opportunity for the community to participate in sport, locally. Thank you and see you next season.

This is not about free speech. If Arndt keeps an policeman who raised the possibility a man who award that sets her values and standards apart as burned his estranged wife and three kids to Classified’s Classified’s exceptional, this is a reflection of who we are. death may have been "driven too far ... by issues Cost:- For one-off domestic advertising The News will not charge you. Otherwise it is $2/line. The real guts of this question is this: do we value the or circumstances" – so, in some warped world it right of women and children to be safe from acts of may be understandable – is so irresponsible as to Computer Tuition: From basics to highly skilled & learn all For Sale: Practically new medium sized Mobility Scooter . violence, with no exceptions or qualifications, or are put vulnerable women and children at even about ebay. P: 0429 381 908 repairs. 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MON 9 MAR – Branxton Public School School Photos If who we single TUES 10 MAR — Branxton/Greta CWA Mthly Mtg – Old St. out for prestigious Brigids Staff Room, Station St., Branxton, 9.30am, Morning awards indicates Tea following. Visitors and New members welcome. Contact Marie Shearer 0402015850 for any information. the actions and SUN 15 MAR — 19th Annual Coalfields Classic MOTORCY- values we hold CLE Show @ Tatt’s Hotel Greta. FREE admission. Entries start high, then Bettina at 9:30am & show commences 10am MON 20 APL 2020 — Public Speaking Work- Arndt's enthusiasm MON 16 MAR — Branxton Public School P&C AGM & meet- shop. Conducted by Cessnock Toastmasters. 6 week course for comments that ing: 6pm School library each Monday night at 7pm. Details: Contact Anna 49904093 potentially water FRI 20 MAR – Branxton Public School Primary Cross Country SAT 25 APL 2020 — ANZAC Day down culpability SAT 21 MAR – Branxton Public School P&C Trivia Night at demonstrates we Branxton Golf Club 7pm SAT 25 APL 2020 — ANZAC Day TUES 14 APR — Branxton/Greta CWA Mthly Mtg – Old St. SUN 10 MAY 2020 — Mothers day are a society that Brigids Staff Room, Station St., Branxton, 9.30am, Morning TUE 12 MAY 2020 — Branxton/Greta CWA Mthly Mtg – Old sees grey areas Tea following. Visitors and New Members welcome. Contact St. Brigids Staff Room, Station St., Branxton, 9.30am,TUE around the idea Marie Shearer 0402015850 for any information. 9 JUN 2020 — Branxton/Greta CWA Mthly Mtg – Old St. women and Brigids Staff Room, Station St., Branxton, 9.30am, children deserve to Morning Tea following. Visitors and New Members welcome. 4 Apl 2020 Contact Marie Shearer 0402015850 for any information be safe from A Lot with a 14 JUL 2020 — Branxton/Greta CWA Mthly Mtg – Old St. violence, full stop. Little Brigids Staff Room, Station St., Branxton, 9.30am, Morning Bettina Arndt's Newcastle Tea following. Visitors and New Members welcome. Contact Writers Order of Australia Marie Shearer 0402015850 for any information. Festival is under formal SUN 6 SEPT 2020 — Fathers day review. If she really Tim Costello Tim Costello discusses the TUE 8 SEPT 2020 — Branxton/Greta CWA Mthly Mtg – Old wants us to believe people and St. Brigids Staff Room, Station St., Branxton, 9.30am, Morn- she is for equality experiences ing Tea following. Visitors and New Members welcome. of both genders, she that have Contact Marie Shearer 0402015850 for any information. shaped him, MON 5 OCT 2020 — Labour Day Public Holiday should hand it back. and the power of faith to Upcoming Concerts sustain us in the SAT 24 OCT 2020 — Rod Stewart Live @ Roche Estate Wendy Tuohy is a face of the SAT 31 OCT 2020 — “Jazz in the Vineyards” @ Hope world’s big Estate senior writer issues.

20 ͽ THE NEWS | No. 515 | WED 5 Mar 2020 Mamma Mia, here we go again. networking capabilities. Australia's very own Ten Sopranos will Ensure all shared and bring the magic of ABBA to Belmont in networked March. drives are disconnected Celebrating 15 years of touring, audience members will be treated to a From p. 18 whether wired or wireless. masterful and stimulating performance of some of ABBA's greatest hits by Keep your personal information Turn off other computers and the Ten Sopranos. safe. Check a website’s security to devices. Power-off and The latest concert offering from the group will include new vocal symphonic ensure the information you submit segregate (i.e., remove from the harmonies that will leave a lasting impression for the audience members and is encrypted before you provide it. network) the infected computer turn them in to dancing queens. The glorious melodies and harmonies are re-invigorated and given new life  Verify email senders. If you (s). Power-off and segregate any other computers or devices that by the talented group of women which is led by internationally acclaimed are unsure whether or not an email shared a network with the and multi-award winning artistic and musical director Penny Pavlakis. is legitimate, try to verify the infected computer(s) that have She is joined by Jemilly Kalil, our local GRETA soprano Jade email’s legitimacy by contacting not been fully encrypted by Riordan-Ayoub, Holly Prophet, Elizabeth Cartmer, Maria Hemphill, Tiana the sender directly. Do not click ransomware. If possible, collect on any links in the email. If Young, Emma Masters, Sophia Campion and Ava Levin. and secure all infected and possible, use a previous Each of the vocally gifted singers were handpicked to create what is possibly potentially infected computers (legitimate) email to ensure the the most powerful all female group in Australia and devices in a central location, contact information you have for Get ready to boogie down to classic ABBA hits such as Lay all your Love on making sure to clearly label any the sender is authentic before you Me, SOS and Voulez Vouz when the Ten Sopranos tour to Belmont 16s on computers that have been contact them. Saturday, March 7. encrypted. Powering-off and Inform yourself. Keep yourself Together the Ten Sopranos will showcase their supreme talents to the segregating infected computers informed about recent cybersecu- audience in two concerts of epic proportions paying homage to the and computers that have not rity threats and up to date on magnificent songs of ABBA. been fully encrypted may allow ransomware techniques. You can Friday 6th March - Wests Nelson Bay - Tickets cost $40 for club members for the recovery of partially find information about known and $45 for non-members. They are on sale now through the club or online encrypted files by specialists. phishing attacks on the Anti- Secure your backups. Ensure at proticket.com.au. Doors open at 7.15pm for an 8pm show start. Phishing Working Group website. that your backup data is offline Saturday 7th March - Belmont 16s - Tickets cost $40 for the show only and $79 for dinner and the show. They are on sale now through You may also want to sign up and secure. If possible, scan the club or online at 16s.com.au. The show starts at 8.30pm. for CISA product notifications, your backup data with an which will alert you when a new antivirus program to check that Alert, Analysis Report, Bulletin, it is free of malware. Current Activity, or Tip has been Disaster Recovery Funding to be invested back in to the community published. Organizations: immediately Cessnock City Council has Cessnock City Mayor, Use and maintain preventative report ransomware incidents to software programs. Install your IT helpdesk or security announced its plan for the Councillor Bob Pynsent is antivirus software, firewalls, and office. distribution of the $1 million pleased with the program of email filters—and keep them All users: change all system Disaster Recovery Funding works that address not only updated—to reduce malicious passwords once the ransomware received from the Federal infrastructure damage but network traffic. has been removed. You can Government following the the impacts the bushfires How do I respond to a ransom- submit ransomware files to ware infection? CISA for analysis via https:// bush fires last year. have had on local business The funding is to be spent on operators.  Isolate the infected www.malware.us-cert.gov/ MalwareSubmission/pages/ system. Remove the infected projects and activities that “A big ticket item is the submission.jsf. system from all networks, and Council deems essential for the upgrade of Yango Creek disable the computer’s wireless, recovery and renewal of the local Bridge. $500,000 has been

Bluetooth, and any other potential community. allocated to upgrade the bridge to provide greater capacity for fire truck and If you require assistance other large vehicles. It’s fantastic to be able to ensure been earmarked for Destination various locations. please call Mike on better access for our emergency Marketing, promoting the ‘open · $30,000 for a temporary services, building resilience for for business’ campaigns.” Disaster Recovery any future fire events.” Funding has also been allocated ‘Infrastructure’ Officer. The 0414 757 826 “In determining how to best use to the following projects: role will set up specialised the funding it was extremely · $300,000 for the regrading ‘Recover’ software and clear we needed to support our and rehabilitation of unsealed systems to support the local business community. roads in Wollombi, Laguna, recording of infrastructure Tourism related businesses were Bucketty, Paynes Crossing impacts from disaster events. hit hard during the bush fire and Congewai areas. This will also supports the emergency and even in the · $40,000 for embankment disaster claims process. weeks following. $100,000 has and stabilisation works in · $20,000 for road pavements repairs at Paynes Crossing · $10,000 for the replacement of damaged tourist signage in the Wollombi area. Council will also engage with Wollombi and Laguna communities in relation to the $250,000 grant provided by the NSW Government’s Economic Recovery and Community Resilience Fund. === Daily Thoughts === "Never say more than is necessary." ~ Richard Brinsley Sheridan "Truth often suffers more by the heat of its defenders than from the arguments of its opposers." ~ William Penn "I told my psychiatrist that everyone hates me. He said I was being ridiculous - everyone hasn't met me yet." ~ Rodney Dangerfield “Hegel was right when he said that we learn from history that man can never learn anything from history. George Bernard Shaw “History is more or less bunk. It's tradition. We don't want tradition. We want to live in the present and the only history that is worth a tinker's damn is the history we made today”. Henry Ford (1863 - 1947) THE NEWS | No. 515 | Wednesday 4 March 2020 ͽ 21

Branxton Public School

Branxton Public School News Congratulations to our Zone swimmers who represented our school at the Zone PSSA Swimming Carnival. Mrs Melnik & Mr Tattis both commented on their excellent behaviour and commitment to achieving their personal best. Well done to Ethan,

Zone Swimmers Dates for the Calendar Monday 9th March – School Photos Monday 16th March - P&C Meeting and AGM 6:00pm in the school library. Friday 20th March – Primary Cross Country Saturday 21st March – P&C Trivia Night at Branxton Golf Club 7pm At Branxton Public School students, staff and community are Respectful, Responsible and achieve their Personal Best.

Debators Kaleb, Claire and Harrison who will represent the Zone at the Hunter Carnival later in the term. Branxton Public School now has the Skoolbag app. We encourage all families to use the app to keep up to date with what’s going on at school. You can also use it to fill out forms for excursions and submit absentee notes. A great timesaver for busy families! Our canteen has been recognised as a ‘Great Choice Healthy School Canteen’. It continues to offer a Monday to Friday service for our students but needs parent and family volunteers to keep it operating this way throughout the year. If you are able to help at all, please contact Sharyn (our wonderful Canteen Manager) via (02) 4938 1214. In Week 4 eight students went to Singleton to participate in a debating workshop. The students learnt many techniques used for debating and had a wonderful day with Mr Tattis. We look forward to seeing these students putting them into practice in the near future.

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES TO LEASE There is a strong demand for residential rental accommodation in the local area & our office needs more properties to sate the current demand. If you are contemplating renting your property please contact either Helen or Mike on 4938 3300 BRANXTON & VINEYARDS REAL ESTATE P: 4938 3300 22 ͽ THE NEWS| No.515 | Wed 5 Mar 2020 sufficient water to do so. how far the water has Regular applications of a penetrated into the soil. In The Garden seaweed solution can assist This is usually best done plants to cope with stress, with a watering system or including drought. This sprinkler but you will need should be applied as a foliar to ensure this complies with spray and applied during local water restrictions. cool periods of the day Whilst all of this additional when there are no strong garden care will help get winds about. most gardens through Avoid major pruning tasks periods of extended dry during dry weather in most weather, by planting cases, as the plants do not drought tolerant plants you have the available water to are able to significantly add vermiculite to the soil. form a tight compacted re-shoot vigorously. In increase the drought Caring for a Vermiculite has the crust, and will always have extreme cases you may tolerance of your garden. advantage of also being air spaces in the mulch notice trees and shrubs These plants are often garden able to increase the which allows water to dropping leaves. This is a described as drought porosity of the soil, holding easily trickle through to the drought protection tolerant as they are able to during air and nutrients as well as garden below. mechanism as with less withstand long periods water. If water crystals or Mulch should be applied leaves the tree loses less without water. Although drough vermiculite can added to thickly enough to give good water through transpiration. these plants are able to cope By Kate Wall the bottom of a planting protection but as water has Careful pruning of small without a lot of water they hole, or a little deeper, they to penetrate through the Where ever you live in trees can remove excess will usually grow better if will help enormously to mulch to reach the ground, Australia, periods of leaves and emulate this they do receive regular sustain new plantings if the mulch is too thick it is extended dry weather and natural process. If pruning water. This means they will through dry periods. By much harder to get Grevillea even drought are likely to must be done, always do well during times when soaking the water crystals sufficient water to get impact on your garden. follow up with a deep your garden receives or vermiculite in a weak through. 3 – 5 cm is usually Water restrictions are watering to reduce plant regular rain, but will not die seaweed solution before thick enough for most likely to remain as long stress. easily during drought. adding them, you will be gardens. As the mulch term realities which will Watering techniques are Plants which are able to providing valuable breaks down it will need to limit the amount of critical to drought manage- withstand dry conditions nutrition to aid with plant be replenished. For most supplementary watering ment of gardens. Always often have certain stress, reducing transplant chunky mulches this will you are able to give your water in the cool of the characteristics which help shock and improving usually be an annual job. It garden during these dry evening when evaporation them save water, including: drought tolerance. is a good idea to apply fresh times. is reduced, unless your - course leaves which resist Mulch is important for mulch in spring to prepare night time temperatures are drying out such as banksias, A garden which requires providing soil protection. It the garden for the heat of likely to be below 15OC, in eucalypts and many other less watering during dry is able to protect soils from summer. This is a good which case you will be natives times will have a distinct erosion and from time to apply a slow release better to water in the cool - grey leaves like advantage and will look temperature extremes in fertiliser under the mulch of the morning. Watering is westringias or lavendar better for longer during addition to conserving and give the garden a deep always more effective if it - hairy leaves like many extended periods of water in the soil. Mulch can watering before adding the reaches deep in the soil to plectranthus drought. Reducing the need also aid in weed mulch. the plants root zone. - reduced leaves like the for supplementary watering suppression and make a Slow release fertilisers are Frequent shallow watering casuarinas can be done in a few garden look fresh and tidy usually best for the garden can actually cause plants - Large fleshy roots which different ways, including so is valuable in any but during drought are increased drought stress and store water like agapanthas garden management garden. The type of mulch particularly important. even plant deaths. Plants - fleshy stems, like gerani- practices and selection of used is often an aesthetic Water stressed plants are need to be encouraged to ums drought tolerant plants. decision, however not all not able to take up fertiliser, have deep roots for - store water in their stems Garden management mulches will provide the so fast acting fertilisers can increased drought tolerance. and leaves the way cacti practices which reduce the same value. Fine mulches be wasted, or can burn A deep soak once every and succulents do. need for supplementary should always be avoided. stressed plants. Never week or two will be far There are many groups of watering include mulching, They tend to form fertilise plants at all during more beneficial for your plants which can be soil improvement, reduced compacted crusts which extreme drought. garden then regular short surprisingly drought fertilising, and timing of prevent water penetration. Slow release fertilisers can waterings. To check if your tolerant. Salvias, ornamen- fertilising and pruning in When these fine mulches remain in the soil for long watering has reached the tal grasses, geraniums, day addition to planting and are used, water more often periods and the plants are root zone of your plants, lilies and agapanthus are all watering techniques. simply runs off the top and able to take up small dig a small hole and see important plants in creating Soil improvement is critical does not reach the garden amounts as they receive highly drought tolerant for all garden success but in at all, cottage gardens. Shrubs times of drought is even making the such as rhaphiolepsis have more so. A soil which has garden course leaves and are very had organic matter added is below even hardy and continue to better able to hold moisture drier than if flower well in dry times. in addition to having a the mulch Top 10 Drought-tolerant Plants better structure allowing were not You Should Grow better access for plant roots used. By ‘Agapanthus’ ‘Thyme’ to penetrate deeply into the using an ‘Acacia’ ‘Gazania’ soil. Organic matter acts uneven or ‘Correa’ ‘Lavender’ like a sponge in the soil, chunky ‘Echium’ ‘Agave’ holding moisture for mulch it is ‘Cordyline’ & ‘Grevillea’ significantly longer. not able to Gazania Organic matter is best added as aged compost and can be placed on top of the Come in to INSPECT soil if it is then covered by mulch, otherwise should be dug in. The added organic what’s new in your local museum! compost also provides slow release plant nutrients which is essential during drought. Water crystals can be added to sandy or very dry soils to aid water retention. Water (Wood rimmed child-safe magnifying glass that crystals work best when they are soaked before really works) digging into the soil, as they will swell significantly Greta Historical Museum and if placed dry into the bottom of a planting hole, 96 High Street Greta can swell enough to push the new plant out of the Open 11am-3pm ground. Water crystals should not be placed on the surface but dug into the soil Wednesdays & Saturdays so plant roots will find them. An organic alterna- tive to water crystals is to Week 19 ~ Week 19 of Cessnock District Cricket was a week to points Nearest-the-Pins went to Chomizak were the Nett forget for the Greta Branxton club, with all five grades going down in NTP Ruth McCarthy Kerry Bartlett, John Stewart winners for the day with a their respective fixtures. 29th January Round 3 and Bill Freeman. very impressive 59.25 In a fight for the minor premiership, first grade were gallant in their Summer Cup Saturday 22nd February score—well clear of run- four-wicket loss to Mulbring at Miller Park no.1. Greta/Branxton Winner Carol Miller with 20 Maitland visitor did best in A ners up Richard Crooks and won the toss and elected to bat, and at one stage were 8-80 and in all points Grade with 41 points to win Mick Carling. However, sorts of trouble. This was before a 73-run ninth wicket stand between Runner Up Neridah Busch the Medley Stableford event John and Adrian weren’t Kyle Hall (36no) and Martin Shearer (30no) put some respectability RESULTS with 16 points from Andrew Zok with 38, B qualified to win the Keno back in the scorecard. Josh Dagg (31) and Greg Andrews (12) were NTP Kerrie O'Connell Grade to Col Somerville with qualifier so Richard and the only other batsmen to reach double figures. The match appeared 5th February Round 4 38 from James Schofield 36 Mick will be representing to be very evenly poised at the drinks interval of the Mulbring run with Mark Bercini Summer Cup and Bill Harden took C the club in the regional chase when they were 4-70, but they eventually reached the target in Winner Tracey Miller with Grade with 36 from Jeff qualifiers at a venue and the 36th over with still four wickets in hand to claim the minor 20 points Shanahan with 33. Ball win- date to be announced, premiership. Martin Shearer had the ball on a string for the Blues with 2-32 off 10. Runner Up Jen Coe with 17 ners were: Shanon Attewell where the winners progress Second Grade went down to Chelmsford Hotel by 11 runs at Chinaman’s Hollow. Branxton Veteran points 37, Phil Douglas 36, Tracy to the Bonville Course for Chelmsford were all out for 107 batting first, with Mark Peace (3-31 off 8), Brett Bridge (3- Golfers NTP Neridah Busch Morison 36, Phil Small 36, the State Finals. The nett 17 off 10) and Alex Walkling (2-15 off 8) doing the damage for the Greta/Branxton side. Results 20-2-20 12th February Round 5 David Agnew 35, Jeremie third to fifth placings were Unfortunately Greta/Branxton fell short of the modest target when they were all out for 96 in Stableford Summer Cup Morton 35, Michael Gilbert tightly contested with only reply. James Shoulders snr (29), Will Regan (18), Bridge (16), and Andrew Bercini (15) all Winner Kerrie O'Connell 35, Gary Arnold 35, Phil 0.25 of a point separating making starts. Div 1 Winner M Ryan 28 pts with 17 points Jake v34, Ken Springbett 34, these pairs. The Scratch Third Grade Blue’s disappointing year continued when they were humbled by 86 runs at the (SOD) R/u G Anderson 27 Runner Up Trish McMillan Andrew Bowden v34, winners for the day were hands of Peden’s Hotel White on Miller 2. Peden’s posted 4-203 batting first, with Ayden rd pts 3 M Martin 26 pts with 15 points Wayne Barber 34, Geoff Club Champion, Cameron Wilkinson (1-18 off 5), Tanveer Singh (1-19 off 6), Peter Davis (1-42 off 9) and Dave Div 2 Winner G Scobie 27 Summer Cup Results Struczko v34, Paul Adams Johanson and Mick Simp- Seabrook (1-56 off 8) all snaring a wicket each. The Blues were all out for 117 in reply, with Singh (28), club president Sean Wright (18) and skipper Malcolm Hedger (16) providing the pts (c/b) R/u R Hebbe 27 pts Winner Kerrie O'Connell 34, Dean Morison 34, Dean son with an impressive 7 rd majority of the runs. 3 B Ward 24 pts Runner Up Neridah Busch Freebairn 33, David Peel 33 under score of 63-quite an Third Grade White were beaten by 4 wickets by Mulbring at Mulbring Oval. After Ladies Winner M Hunt 19 Hunter Valley Golf and Jeremy Holden 33 c/b. effort in a 2 person ambrose. The shot of the dominating most of the year with the bat, Greta/Branxton managed just 109 batting first, with pts (c/b) R/u R Friis 19 pts Club Nearest-the-Pins went to NTP Ladies R Friis day belonged to David Jamie McNamara leading the way as per usual with 37, with Ben Miezis (19) and Ethen Sunday 16th February Paul McCudden (3rd) Tom Gents G Scobie Matt on the last, with his Spliet-Miller (18) offering support. Mulbring achieved the target after losing 6 wickets. The Weekly Challenge has Bell (4th) Nathan Mudd (8th) Members draw - Not won tee shot finishing only McNamara completed a fine all-round game with 4-27 off 10. been won by Andrew Robert Wilton (10th & 17th). On a perfect late Summer’s 111cms away. Fourth Grade completed the clean sweep of losses with a narrow 14-run loss at the hands of Campbell of the Singleton Next weeks event will be a day, 42 of our members On Sunday our Pennants competition leaders Supporters Club at Baddeley 2. Supporters made 130 batting first, with Golf club on countback to Medley 2 BBB. accepted the challenge of a teams didn’t have a good Jeremy Brown skittling the home side with 5-36 off 9 with his hand grenades, with up-and- Peter Tierney after both Pennants round at the “Ultimate 9” day although our defending coming U/14 player Lewis Jacobs taking 2-6 off 3. Greta/Branxton fell for 116 in reply, with returned excellent rounds of The Seniors recorded their golf course at Branxton, champions A Grade won Mitch Bradford (38), skipper Sam Dagg (12) and Jacobs (12) providing the runs. 40 points. No other details second win defeating the despite the long grass and again in a tight contest Week 20 ~ A successful final round of district cricket saw Greta/Branxton wrap up the club are available at this time. Vintage 2-1 at Maitland. A being wet underfoot the against Kurri at Scone. It championship with victories in first, second, third white and fourth grade, with third grade Tuesday 18th February Grade suffered a 1.5 to 3.5 players enjoyed the day, if certainly is a tight blue unable to complete the clean sweep. Nicholas Wilson and Tom loss to Maitland at Scone, B not the scores. competition. First grade accounted for Bellbird for the third time this year with what was in the end a Bell handled the heavy go- Grade opened their account Congratulations to Mike Pennants Results comfortable 4-wicket victory at Carmichael Park. Bellbird batted first and were all out in the ing after the early week with a strong 4.5 to 0.5 win Ryan on winning his division A Grade- won 3-2 against 38th over for 139. In what was probably their best bowling performance of the year, the Blues downpour to both record 38 over Maitland at 'home' and seamers had the Bellbird batsmen tied down for the majority of the innings, with Brent and achieving the “Score of Kurri at Scone points, Nick did best on the C Grade finished square 2.5 - Watson (3-40 off 9), Darren Thomson (2-19 off 10), Patrick Andrews (2-30 off 7) and Martin the Day” and, a well done to B Grade- lost 3.5 - 1.5 to countack for the win, 3rd 2.5 with Maitland at Shearer (2-20 off 4.3) sharing the work load. Greta/Branxton recovered from 3-21 in reply other winners and Paterson at Hunter Valley went to Amy Olsen with a Singleton. when co-skippers Nathan Holz (50) and Joey Butler (32) got the run-chase back on track, placegetters. C Grade – lost 4-1 to Pater- solid 37 points. Ball winners Branxton Golf Club with the Blues reaching the target in the 28th over after losing 6 wickets. Josh Dagg hit the Results 27 Feb 20 son at Singleton were: Damien Porter 36, Saturday, 22nd February winning runs with a pull stroke to the mid-wicket boundary to remain unbeaten on 26. “Millenium Trophy” - Vets-lost 2.5.- 0.5 to Sin- Nathan Sweeney 34, Geoff 2 MAN AMBROSE + Second grade picked up a 5 wicket victory over Bellbird at Miller 1 to leapfrog them for the Stableford gleton at Maitland Boyd 34, Ken Scott- KENO QUALIFIER minor premiership. Both teams finished the season on the same points, with Greta/Branxton Div 1 & Trophy Winner Saturday, 29 February MacKenzie 34, Matt Field: 62 having the superior net run rate. Bellbird were skittled for 86 batting first, with Brett Bridge P Anderson 31 pts (SOD) 2020 Delforce 33, Jacob Peace NETT WINNERS (3-12 off 7.1), Pat Fitzgerald (3-23 off 10), Alex Walkling (2-28 off 7) and US bound Jake R/u E Munzenberger 29 pts SATURDAY COMP - v32, Greg Mudd v32, Joe JOHNNY LAWLER / Goodyer (2-17 off 6) doing all the damage. As was the case in first grade, the run chase 3rd G Jones 28 pts PAR Olsen 32, Peter Franks 31, ADRIAN CHOMIZAK started a little shakily at 3-22, but opener Bryce Element played a fine hand to carry his bat Div 2 Winner J Flynn 30 pts Field: 58 Graeme Flynn 31, Wayne 59.25 NETT with 43, receiving good support from Brock Charnock with 27. 2nd B Ward 26 pts (c/b) Grades A Benjamin Bridge Burgess 31, Lindsay Self 31, NETT RUNNERS UP Third Grade White finished the season in second place following their 179-run thrashing of 3rd I Harris 26 pts 4 Jordan McMurray v31, Rob RICHARD CROOKS / Peden’s Hotel White at Jeffery Park. Greta/Branxton amassed 6-267 batting first, with Ladies Winner C Caldwell Grades A Adrian Hannah 30 and Phil Darcy MICHAEL CARLING 63.75 association leading run-scorer Jamie McNamara notching an unbeaten 125. Cory Stephenson 28 pts R/u M Hunt 23 pts Chomiszak 4 30 c/b. Nearest-the-Pins NETT also timed the ball cleanly with 80, with Ben Miezis (20) and Dan Minchin (19) adding to the 3rd J Harris 18 pts Grades A Peter Wilton 0 went to Tom Bell (3rd) Rob NETT THIRD LEE impressive total. Peden’s Hotel were all out for 88 in reply, with Will Young not to be NTP Ladies J Harris Grades B Robert Hale 3 Hannah (01th) and Greg HEUSTON / STEVE PRIM- outdone by his step father by bagging 5-9 off 4. Gents R McMillan Grades B Reece Caldwell Mudd (17th) MER 64.75 NETT C/B Third Grade Blue could not finish their poor season off on a high following a narrow 3- Members draw - Not won 3 Wednesday 19th February NETT FOURTH wicket loss to Bellbird at Baddeley 3. The Blues were all out for 92 batting first, with club What a glorious day to finish Grades B John Burgess 1 The Ladies found the going ROBERT BILES / STEVEN president Sean Wright (20), Will Regan (15), Jason Varley (14) and Ben Lahey (13) making the Summer season in pro- Grades C Anthony very heavy with little 'run' ECCLES 64.75 NETT starts. Bellbird reached the target in the 18th over with 3 wickets in hand, with Varley (2-25 viding comfortable playing Charlesworth 1 making the holes much NETT FIFTH DOUGLAS off 5) and Jesse Wright (2-7 off 2) picking up a brace of wickets each. conditions for our keen Grades C Glenn Lockwood longer and the scores ELPHICK / JAMES Fourth Grade finished the season off strongly by fell just one point shy of the semi finals group of players. Congratu- 1 reflected that. Dale Hamilton ELPHICK 65 NETT following their 4 wicket win over Chelmsford Hotel at Miller 2. Chelmsford were skittled for lations to Paul Anderson on Grades C Darren Mathers 0 did best with 34 points from SCRATCH WINNER- 85 batting first, with Jeremy Brown bamboozling the Chelly batsmen with his hand grenades winning the ‘Millenium NTP 2/11 A 2nd Glenda Williams and Ann SCAMERON JOHANSON / to finish with 5-7 off 7 in a fine spell of bowling. Correy Stone supported well with 3-29 off Trophy’ with the “Score of Benjamin Bridge 233cm Grace-Smith 3rd. MICK SIMPSON 63 C/B 8. Greta/Branxton reeled in the target in just 12 overs after losing 6 wickets, with skipper Sam the Day”. A well done to all NTP 4 B 4th Reece Thursday 20th February NTP Dagg (36no), Doug Engel (19) and Mitch Bradford (15) doing enough to get the Blues home. other winners and place Caldwell 560cm The Vets Stroke round was M BARRETT 231CM The semi finals commence this week, with first grade taking on Peden’s Hotel on Miller 1. In getters. NTP 9/18 C 9th James contested by a strong field R CALDWELL 261CM a first for the club, second grade will play their home semi on Miller 2 against Wine Country, Results 28 Feb 20 Elphick 104cm with the scores still being D MATT 111CM with Third Grade White taking on Wine Country at East End. “Away Day” NTP 13 A 13th Tom affected by the soft going. KENO TEAM QUALIFIER Final Standings ~ First Grade Mulbring 74, Greta/Branxton 70, Peden’s Hotel 57, Bellbird Hawks Nest Foster 570cm Division1 went to Steve – RICHARD CROOKS & 52, Wine Country 41. Second Grade Greta/Branxton 87*, Bellbird 87*, Chelmsford Hotel 1st G Train 39 pts (c/b) Balls 17 Distributed down Piggot on countback to MICHAEL CARLING 79, Wine Country 71, Denman Hotel 59, Peden’s Hotel 55. * NRR - Greta/Branxton 1.37, 2nd G Sheldon 39 pts to score: -4 Michael Gilbert after both Saturday’s 2 Person Bellbird 0.84.Third Grade Bellbird 83, Greta/Branxton White 80, Wine Country 75, 3rd A Cannon 38 pts Ben Bridge, the 2019 B returned 72 net, B Grade to Ambrose + Keno Qualifier Mulbring 74, Peden’s Hotel White 68, Peden’s Hotel Blue 60, Greta/Branxton Blue 57, Den- 4th P Anderson 37 pts (c/b) Grade Club Champion, Bill Freeman with the only proved very popular with 62 man Hotel 45.Fourth Grade Supporters 87, Cessnock Hotel 84, Bellbird Maroon 67, Bell- 5th K Anderson 37 pts continues to impress in A sub par round of the day 70 players enjoying the im- bird White 64, Peden’s Hotel 64, Greta/Branxton 63, Wine Country 59, Chelmsford Hotel 57. By dawns early light our Grade, once again win- Club Championship Greta/Branxton 703.02, Bellbird 661.02, Peden’s Hotel 558.00, Wine net from Dennis Donn 71 proved greenery around the intrepid members head for ning—this time in the un- Country 546.88. and C Grade to John Branxton Golf Course. John Hawks Nest, a favoured compromising par event, Barbour on countback to Lawler and Adrian venue for a round of golf. A with an excellent plus 4. Neil Peterson after both fine sunny day with a gentle returned 75 net. breeze wafting across the YOUR friendly team Ball winners excellent golf course there, Emergency Phone Numbers Mike Lowing: Editor, Journalist, were: Lindsay made playing conditions Photographer & Administrator Meyn 72, John Police Electricity quite comfortable and Dial 000 Energy Manager Advertising: Helen Lowing Pascoe 72, Don FOR FIRE, POLICE AND Branxton…. 4938 1244 enjoyable. Congratulations Australia….... 131 388 The “Branxton Greta Vineyards AMBULANCE ANY TIME, DAY OR Lochinvar… 4930 7209 Hospitals Bradley 72, NIGHT FOR 24-HOUR SERVICE News” is bound by an industry code of to Gary Train on winning the Ambulance… 131 233 Maitland… 4939 2000 It’s a free call. Just tell the operator Bruce NSW Fire Brigade Cessnock.. 4991 0555 ethics. If you have a complaint, contact event. And a well done to what you need-fire, police or ambu- Branxton…. 4938 3396 Singleton.. 6572 2799 Chambers 73, lance. Then wait to be connected. the newspaper first. If the matter is the place getters. SES ………….132 500 When reporting an emergency by Rural Fire Brigades unresolved, then call The Australian Jock Kendall Crime Stoppers LN Bootes, Hon Sec calling 000, the telephone number & Belford…… 6574 7149 74, Richard 1800 333 000 Press Council on 1800 025 712. Complaints about advertising should be directed to the Editor and if the address you are calling from may be Broke…….. 6579 1491 Branxton Lady Golfers Poisons Info …… 131 126 Craft 74, Rob given to the emergency service so Greta…..… 4015 0000 matter isn’t resolved contact The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission on (02) 9230 9133. Hunter Water 15th January Round 1 they can respond quickly. If you Bishops Bdg 4015 0000 Hannah 75, 1300 657 000 Deadlines don’t want the telephone number or Nth R’bury… 4015 0000 Summer Cup Ausgrid ………... 131 388 John Grayson address details passed on, you must Rothbury….. 4015 0000 “The Branxton Greta Vineyards News” appeals to all advertisers to adhere to the Friday 2PM biweekly Gas Emergencies . 131 909 Winner Kerrie O'Connell call the emergency service direct. Pokolbin...… 4015 0000 deadline which includes all editorial items as well. If you know you will be late please let our office know 75, David Peel Lifeline ………….131 114 ALL CALLS TO 000 ARE VOICE Rothbury….. 4991 1733 with 21 points Mental Health Line so that we can save space for you. This newspaper does not accept reports, advertisements or other 75, Gerry Irwin RECORDED Bishops Bdg 4015 0000 Runner Up Neridah Busch 75, Tom Bell Nth R’bury… 4015 0000 1800 011 511 instructions over the phone. We do accept items by Email. with 18 points For non-life Rothbury….. 4015 0000 Domestic Violence Support 76, Ray Boyd 4990 9609 PHONE: (02) 4938 1773 or after hours (02) 4938 3451 22nd January Round 2 threatening Pokolbin...… 4015 0000 76, Jeff Taylor Rothbury….. 4991 1733 Centrelink Self Service MOB: 0412 566 041 0414 757 826 Summer Cup calls……. Scotts 136 240 76, Noel Medicare ……….. 132 011 Police Assistance Line (PAL)…. Flat… …… 6575 1200 Email: [email protected] Winner Kerrie O'Connell Native Animal Rescue Ellenor 76 and 131 444 Central 0418 628 483 Office: 12 Clift Street, Branxton, NSW 2335 with 18 points (Cessnock)… 4015 0000 William Runner Up Jen Salna with 12 Duncan 76. Greta Workers “The Surgeon” Scotty Beckett has continued his dominance (39). Sons Cohen (26) weekend. Weigh Chook raffle at the same and Ethen (31.5) both in will be 4pm time. Tickets selling from weighed in nice Sunday at the 445pm and all are drawn by flathead. Greta Workers 5:30pm. Lewis Jacobs is in Club. Another thanks again to all outright lead in the Wednesday our 2020 Sponsors Gocon juniors after his 34 Raffles have been Rural Fencing, MacDougall The Greta Workers Social points, this also puts him in very successful Rural Concreting, The Fishing Club February overall 4th place. New with 2 x $30 sea- Bottlo at Greta, The Sea weekend was an “Open” member Sharna Cannon food trays being Shanty at Rutherford, and event and both fresh and lodged her first weigh in raffled off as well the Harvest Bistro at Greta saltwater fish were weighed for the club with 2 bass as a $25 Harvest Workers Club. Our Club in. “The Surgeon” Scotty (19.5). Glenn Beckett Bistro Voucher polos are due in a couple of Beckett continued his scored 34 points with for the non- weeks and it will be great to dominance taking out the Bream and Flathead and seafood lovers. see all these sponsors all weekend with 69 points Mick “Mouse” Edwards This has been a over them out in public. weighing in Flathead, scored 33 points with great afternoon to Any new members can pay Bream and Bass. New Bream and Whiting. break the week up online or come down to our member Boxhead Miller Our Next Outing will be March. Most members are with the bowler’s meat weigh ins or Wednesday scored second top points Hawks Nest on the booking Jimmys Beach raffle (2 trays), Members raffles. Happy Fishing! th th th with Flathead and Tarwhine weekend of 13 , 14 , 15 Caravan Park for this draw, and free members Nevo ͽ Photos: Cohen Spliet-Miller, at left & Ethen Spliet-Miller above

Advertising and news information may be phoned direct to our office at 49381773, or faxed to 49383301, or call in personally to the office at 12 Clift Street, Branxton. The ‘Branxton Greta Vineyards News’ is published by B&VRE, 12 Clift Street, Branxton NSW 2335 & is printed by Fairfax Media. The Editor reserves the right to refuse to print advertisements and contributors’ letters and accepts no responsibility for the veracity of statements made by advertisers and contributors. NEXT ISSUE: 18/3/20

Contact Details for The Branxton Greta Vineyards News:- Ph: 4938 1773 Fax: 4938 3301 Email: [email protected] Address: 12 Clift Street, Branxton 2335