FREE DECEMBER 2013
Dural > Mid-Dural > Round Corner > Kellyville > Annangrove > Kenthurst > Glenhaven > Arcadia > Glenorie > Galston
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598 Old Northern Road Dural NSW 2158 www.hdfe.com.au Ph: 9651 1896 PRESIDENT’S REPORT Christmas Wishes
By Peter Dawson
On behalf of the Chamber Executive I extend season’s greetings to all of our readers, to the members of the Chamber and to the shops and businesses throughout this area. Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year. chamber celebrations On 29th November the Chamber sponsored “The Picnic in the Business Park” at New Line Road and on 6th December the “Drinks on the Village Green” at Round Corner. With the generous assistance of several local shopkeepers we shared a couple of hours of friendship, fellowship and goodwill, and a great deal of laughter echoed around the carpark at both venues. My thanks to all members of the Executive and also to those generous retailers who donated food and beverage.
Best Decorated Shop At the time we went to press the judging of our competition for the best decorated shop in the area was not completed, but I will announce the winner in the next edition of Dooral Roundup.
Meetings Our next Chamber meeting will be our Annual General Meeting on 22nd January at Allure Restaurant from 6pm and all members are welcome. And on 25th February at Bivianos Italian Restaurant we will join the Rotary Club of Dural to present cheques to the beneficiary charities from this year’s Dural Community Golf Classic to the charities. Details can be found on the website at www.duralchamber.org.au
If you want to contact me or one of the very hardworking members of the Chamber Executive you can email us at mail@duralchamber. org.au and if you wish to write to the Editor or submit an article to Dooral Roundup the address is [email protected]
December 2013 – Dooral Roundup 1 EDITOR’S REPORT The Times are a Changing By Judy Pope
Finally we have been blessed with some rain after a very long dry spell.
e seemed to have received the last four months rainfall in a week Wand the grass has turned from dry and crispy to lush and bright green almost immediately and the tanks and dams have filled. All the gardens will be delightful for the festive season. As the fun part of the year rapidly approaches and the final plans are made for where to spend Christmas day and how to spend the extra time off work the anticipation builds and builds. The children count down the days until Santa comes, their parents count down the days until they can have some time off work and the grandparents count down the days until they can catch up with their families. The more time you have spent on planet earth the more important non-materials become and the more important family and friends become but for the little ones it is all about Santa and what they can get. Please try and shop locally for Christmas and give back to this wonderful community we are lucky enough to live in. We have very low crime rates, very low unemployment and many small businesses that need your support to keep this community strong and vibrant.
Enjoy a wonderful Christmas and set your goals high for 2014.
Birds l Fish l Rabbits l Mice l Guinea Pigs l Pet Accessories l Pet Food l Kennels l Cages & Hutches
2 Dooral Roundup – December 2013 COVER STORY
Twas the Night before Christmas
On, Comet! On, Cupid! on, on Donner and Blitzen! He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall! And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself! Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!” A wink of his eye and a twist of his head, Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread. As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky. He spoke not a word, but went So up to the house-top the coursers they flew, straight to his work, With the sleigh full of Toys, and St Nicholas too. And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk. And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof And laying his finger aside The prancing and pawing of each little hoof. of his nose, As I drew in my head, and was turning around, And giving a nod, up the Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound. chimney he rose!
He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, He sprang to his sleigh, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot. to his team gave a whistle, A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back, And away they all flew And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack. like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry! ‘ere he drove out of sight, His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry! “Happy Christmas to all, His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, and to all a good-night!” And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.
The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath. He had a broad face and a little round belly, That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly!
December 2013 – Dooral Roundup 3 LOCAL NEWS Local Pollies roll a Mile in somebody else’s Shoes
Hornsby Mayor Steve Russell joined other local politicians in wheelchairs as part of Ride A Day In My Wheels, raising awareness of disability issues.
he highlight was a race between T all of them around Hornsby Mall, in which Mayor Russell finished last under strong protest. “I want it to be known that I was the only one who didn’t cheat,” he said, laughing. “Phillip Ruddock had people responsible for public policy, it’s important that we gain this small insight into pushing him and Matt Kean was the challenges faced by those with a disability,” Mayor Russell said. actually towed up one of the hills “Local government, like the other tiers of government, is there to support all behind an electric wheelchair!” the people living in our community including those with a disability. All jokes and games aside, the day had a serious objective. “Exercises like today are valuable because they help us keep their “For those of us who are needs high in our mind when making decisions.”
Work Commences on Pitt Town Rd Work has begun on the replacement of two old timber bridges on Pitt Town Rd, Maraylya.
ills Shire Mayor Dr Michelle Byrne was joined Hby Council’s General Manager Dave Walker, Infrastructure Projects Manager Ken Willimot, Principal Projects Co-ordinator Steve Englezos and Project Officer David Duffield to turn the first sod on Wednesday. other way around it, we have to close the road.” Mayor Byrne has thanked residents and motorists for “But Council teams will work as fast as they can to get these their patience during this period. bridges replaced.” “The new bridges will be higher, reducing the risk Motorists driving light vehicles can use a detour along Maguires of flooding and are a safer option to the old timber Rd and McClymonts Rd, however this detour is not suitable for bridges we currently have along Pitt Town Rd,” heavy vehicles. Truck drivers should consider alternate routes. Mayor Byrne said. “I want to thank residents and motorists for their Access will be maintained to all properties at all times patience during this period. Unfortunately there’s no during this period.
4 Dooral Roundup – December 2013 Mindless Vandalism severely damages Les Shore Reserve
Council is appealing for information following an act of vandalism that has resulted in serious damage to Les Shore Reserve, Glenorie.
t appears that the offenders I have used a chainsaw to cut a telegraph pole and driven a vehicle onto the reserve and performed burnouts, severely damaging the grass. Council’s General Manager Dave Walker is hoping local residents may be able to help Council find the perpetrators. “This is another example of mindless vandalism and it’s really disappointing,” Mr Walker said. “It appears that the vandalism occurred on Sunday night, however it is difficult to determine an exact time.” “Due to the wet weather, Council officers have been unable to begin patching up the damage.” Mr Walker said the damage was quite severe and he struggled to comprehend why anyone would do such a thing. “If the person was driving a motor vehicle they’re probably old enough to know a lot better. If we catch the offenders I’ll have no hesitation in banning them from all Council parks, reserves and facilities and work with police to prosecute them as hard as possible.”
Anyone with information should contact 9843 0555.
December 2013 – Dooral Roundup 5 LOCAL NEWS New Exhibition for Famous Local
For more than 28 years Kenthurst Galleries has been a are only open major resource for students and art lovers. on Saturday and Sunday from he gallery is now one of the biggest commercial 11-4 the energy T galleries in Australia and changing exhibition and vibrancy programmes draw collectors of the gallery from around Australia and is palpable The overseas. Director Eddi new exhibition Jennings says; which opens ‘I have always been on December passionate about art and its 21 features impact on the community a number of and personal environments. artists new to In the home and office, the gallery and paintings have the power to visitors can meet uplift and sometimes nudge some of them us out of our comfort zones.’ from 7 – 9 pm Although the galleries Saturday 21 December. There are many plans in the pipeline for 2014 including family art workshops, an art prize and the reintroduction by popular demand Kenthurst Galleries $600 and Under Exhibition and a pop up restaurant. Please let the gallery staff know if you are interested in any of these events by emailing [email protected] Tel. 9654 0201 M 0407 428 301.
If you haven’t yet visited Kenthurst Galleries do call in, you will not be disappointed. Fishing Club Annual Awards
Good friendships, good food and good weather, all the Tuesday of the month. Visitors are always welcome at the ingredients were there for a successful 2013 Annual meetings. Awards and Christmas Luncheon for the Dural Country A warm greeting is extended to the new members of the Club Fishing Club held at the Dural Country Club on 1st fishing club. December last. Enquiries please phone Murray Stagg on 0407 950 939. nce again, Udo Hoppe of Dural reeled in the big one Owhen he received the Champion of Champions Award for the year. The members of the Fishing Club are very grateful for the support of the Dural Country Club and Central Coast Reef and Game Fishing Charters. Various activities are enjoyed during the year by the members including a monthly offshore charter, estuary and open fishing as well as organised fishing short stay holidays and social BBQs. The next short stay holiday will be at Nelsons Bay in March 2014. Meetings are held at the Dural Country Club at 7:30pm on the fourth
6 Dooral Roundup – December 2013 Health Forums – Community Colaboration
Galston Village Pharmacy has established a series of community health forums covering a wide range of interesting topics for men and women.
uest speakers from professional organisations and Gcommunity groups have discussed Arthritis, Diabetes, Heart Health, Macular Degeneration, Dementia and Prostate Cancer. Attendance is on a voluntary basis and free of charge. Refreshments are provided. The Pharmacy recently conducted a forum on Men’s Health and a speaker from Dural & District Prostate Cancer Support Group made a presentation to promote awareness and develop a broader understanding of the disease, noting that prostate cancer is potentially curable if detected early and treated while still confined to the prostate gland. The forum attendees were encouraged to talk to their GP about testing for prostate cancer and how a simple blood test and physical examination may lead to early intervention. Questions from participants and the discussions that followed confirmed the value of these health forums in providing information in a relaxed and informal environment. Dural & District Prostate Cancer Support Group is a voluntary community group affiliated with the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. It meets at 7pm on the third Monday of each month at Dural Country Club 662A Old Northern Road Dural.
The Group happy to participate with any local organisation to raise awareness of the disease in the community.
Come and have fun at King Equestrian Academy! King Equestrian Academy is a unique riding school run by Specialist coaches. Students are shown the value of good horsemanship and given correct schooling from the beginning of their horse careers. King Equestrian Academy is the only riding School of its kind. We provide retired champion show horses as mounts for our pupils and trainers that are competing at top level to mentor the students.
Kerrie McGrath of Galston Village Pharmacy donates the proceeds of a recent prostate cancer awareness “lucky draw” to Col Norris and Rog Hilton of the Dural & District Prostate Cancer Support Group.
December 2013 – Dooral Roundup 7 DOORAL HAPPENINGS Meetings, Clubs & Congrats
Carols by Galston VIEW Club Candlelight The Christmas Get Together will be held at the Galston Club With Christmas fast commencing at 11.30am on Wednesday 11th December approaching, all at St 2013. Please bring a small gift for our lucky dip & each Benedict’s Parish are person will receive a gift. Cost is $25 per person for a 2 course busy making plans meal. Visitors are welcome to come and enjoy a wonderful for this happy time in day. Inquiries Vivien 9894-1189. the church year. Once again we’ll be holding a Galston CWA Carols by Candlelight Our last meeting for the year, to discuss plans for 2014, at the Parish Centre. will be held on Wednesday 11th December at 10am.The This will commence meeting will be followed by a special bring-a-plate lunch. The at 8pm on Saturday CWA Country of Study for 2014 is Botswana, and we will 21st December. All are be contacting local schools inviting them to participate in welcome to come along our Poster Competition. Our President, Val Garner, helped and as many children as at the Hawkesbury Small Farms Expo at Clarendon. The possible will be taking part in a nativity play. It’s a great night CWA of NSW had a stand in ‘The Land’ pavilion, where and a wonderful way to remind kids of the true meaning of children decorated cupcakes and fun was had by all. We are Christmas. Our Christmas vigil will begin at 11:30pm on always happy to receive wool and fabrics for charity sewing Christmas Eve, followed by Midnight Mass. and knitting, and would like to thank everyone who made donations in 2013. For more details contact Janet phone Hard Fought Result 9653 2402 or Val on 9653 1774. The last Championship event for 2013 , The Nominated Men’s Triples , was decided on 26th October with the team of Paddy Gaul ,Dom Surace and Nick Sheerin triumphant with a score of 22 – 13 over the team of Greg Cormio , Phil Bonvino and Chris Williams . It was a tough, challenging game and the score-line was not a true indicator of the closeness of the competition. Congratulations to our new 2013 champions and well done to the runners-up and all the other teams who fought so hard during this event .Any person who would like to try Lawn Bowls contact Gordon Scoble 9639-2742 or Robyn Cook 9836-0831 for free lessons.
Community Club Notices
Dural Galston Probus Club The next meeting is at 10am on Thursday 19th December at The Galston Club, followed by Christmas lunch. Visitors welcome. Contact Anne 9653 1004.
8 Dooral Roundup – December 2013 LOCAL LEGEND
Northholm Student takes a Challenge
A little encouragement can go a long way.
few months ago, Northholm Grammar School student, Morgan AKingham, began the Max Potential Youth Leadership Program. Morgan had always been an excellent student, but found public speaking and putting herself forward, a challenge. Through a series of one to one coaching sessions, Morgan soon realised that this was a common fear and that she had the ability to overcome this issue. Five months later and Morgan found herself being asked to be the only high school student representative at the Australian Youth Mentoring Network: Innovation and Leadership Summit. After listening to Nick Farr-Jones speak about the importance of ‘giving life a go’, the audience of professionals was well prepared to listen to Morgan’s delivery. Not only was Morgan able to explain the importance of mentoring from a mentee’s perspective, but her address was full of confidence and meaning. Perhaps the highlight of the day was Morgan informing the conference of her appointment as School Captain for 2014.
Not bad for a student who six months ago would have laughed at the suggestion.
December 2013 – Dooral Roundup 9 OUR STATE Stay Vigilant No.1 Barrier to over Xmas Business Innovation By David Elliott By Stephen Cartwright, CEO NSW Business Chamber As we head into Christmas, I want to take this opportunity to remind all readers to be vigilant Good businesses with great ideas are missing out against fire dangers over the Christmas break. on securing capital because of a financial system that is too rigid and prioritises collateral over iven the fire season started this year with a blaze in relationship development. GWinston Hills, residents should not simply rest on a theory that ‘it won’t happen to me’. rawing on contributions from Deloitte Access The recent fires in the Blue Mountains and Economics and Professor Marc Cowling, the Hawkesbury should also act as a timely reminder to us all D report, ‘Small Business Access to Finance’, evaluates the how quickly pleasant weather conditions can turn sour. It post-GFC financial lending environment. The Federal is vitally important to have your fire plan ready so that, if Government needs to work with lenders and the small the worst happens, you are fully prepared. business community to keep the financial arteries that The MyFirePlan app is available through the Apple support innovation and growth open in the face of rising App store or Google Play by searching for ‘Bush Fire national unemployment. Survival Plan’ or ‘MyFirePlan’ and is free of charge. The study indicates that access to finance While on the topic of saving lives, I hope we all slow conservatively affects more than 200,000 businesses, down and take it easy over the Christmas break. forcing them to slow their growth, lay off staff or Specifically, this relates to the road toll. Each year we shutdown altogether. According to ABS data, access to watch on in horror as the road toll seemingly climbs out finance is the number one barrier to innovation and of control. the third largest barrier to general business activity. However, this year we are on track to record the fewest The fact that good businesses miss out on loans is a road deaths in NSW for the best part of four decades. problem that needs to be actioned, but the challenge While I am not naive enough to think that luck does is to find cost effective solutions. Part of the problem not occasionally play a part in road accidents, I am also is lack of information, so the NSW Business Chamber conscious of the fact that we can create our own luck by recommends that governments, lenders and business staying within the speed limits across the Christmas break, groups work together to better understand small as we should do every time we get behind the wheel. business needs and ensure that they get the right banking advice. IFinally, as this is the last edition of the Roundup The nation loses out if good ideas and good enterprises before Christmas, on behalf of Nicole, Lachlan, are not given the chance to flourish. William and myself, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous, safe and Happy 2014! nswbusinesschamber.com.au
10 Dooral Roundup – December 2013 MAYORAL UPDATE Summer Council’s Reading Club finances Underway looking ‘bright’ By Michelle Byrne, Mayor Hills Shire Council By Counsellor Steve Russell Mayor Hornsby Shire Counci
Children can be rewarded for reading in the school Hornsby Shire Council’s holidays by taking part in The Hills Shire Library’s general purpose financial Summer Reading Club. statements have been given a “sound and ouncil’s five libraries are encouraging children to read positive’ rating by C over the summer holidays with their annual Summer independent auditors Reading Club keeping those young minds engaged over PricewaterhouseCoopers. the break. With all new rewards and an Investigation theme for this summer, the club will run from December or the 2012/13 period 1, 2013 until January 31, 2014 for children aged between F Council achieved a 5 – 14. The service is very popular with local students. significant financial result, Last year more than 1200 children participated in the with an operating surplus program, visiting The Hills Shire Libraries over 6600 of $7.8 million compared times throughout the summer and borrowing a total of to the prior year which was a deficit of $348,000. 16,046 items,” Mayor Byrne said. This surplus is a terrific result. In addition to this our Children liquidity is well above the industry benchmark and we who join the club have low levels of debt. Another important indicator will be given a is our infrastructure backlog, which was verified at a secret agent log minimal $5.24 million and is considered one of the that is stamped lowest in the state. each time they This report is a great achievement but I can assure visit the library our residents we will not rest on our laurels. We will and borrow. On continue to operate in a financially responsible manner. every third visit There are still a lot of challenges ahead with much they will receive a reward. Plus, they can complete the needed capital works in the pipeline. We are in good Summer Reading Club challenge sheet to go in the draw shape and I’m pleased to say our future is looking very to win some great book packs.You can join the Summer bright indeed. Reading Club at any one of The Hills Shire Libraries. The financial statement is available on Council’s www.thehills.nsw.gov.au/library website at hornsby.nsw.gov.au/financialPwC
THE HILLS SHIRE COUNCIL IS MOVING 3 Columbia Court, Baulkham Hills (Norwest Business Park) from mid-December 2013.
MORE INFORMATION www.thehills.nsw.gov.au 9843 0555
December 2013 – Dooral Roundup 11 REPRESENTING OUR AREA An Easy A Government Deal for the of Action Prosecution By Phillip Ruddock – Member for Berowra By Matt Kean – Member for Hornsby Before we rise for the Christmas break on December 12, people will have had an opportunity He had been let off lightly in the past, with a to see Australia’s new government in action. mixture of probation and control orders.
t is a Government of policies, energy, commitment n the fatal Saturday night in question, Loveridge and resolve. Our agenda in the first days of this was already on conditional liberty following a I O session clearly defines this as a government of action. violent assault where he had king hit a teenager at a My new role as Chief Government Whip has brought party. After purchasing almost 48 standard-drinks of new responsibilities and challenges which I must alcopops he, drunk and enraged, attacked five innocent say I am relishing. I particularly enjoy being able to and unsuspecting strangers for no reason at all. Thomas assist the many newly-elected Members as they lay Kelly had no idea he was in danger and he never got the the foundations of their electorate and Parliamentary chance to negotiate, so why did Loveridge? Director of profiles. Public Prosecutions offices determined that Loveridge My time away from Parliament House is fully would be charged with manslaughter not murder. occupied with electorate interviews and events. The judge felt it necessary to explain that such a deal Invitations for Christmas gatherings are arriving and I was completely beyond his control and that the deal tied am looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible his hands in sentencing. His Honour said, “the most over the coming weeks. This has been an especially serious crime for which the offender is to be sentenced hectic year with a Federal election and my 40th is manslaughter, not murder. These are different crimes anniversary in Parliament providing additional scope for involving a different order of seriousness. It would me to speak with many friends and constituents. be a grave error to mistake them. It is solely for the prosecution to decide what charges to bring. This is I take this nothing to do with the Court. It is for the offender to opportunity to decide how to plead. Again, this has nothing to do with offer my very the Court”. best wishes to each and every Surely it should be for the community to decide, one of you for a through 12 of its representatives, whether a man happy Christmas who goes on a drunken rampage and recklessly and a safe and punches a stranger in the face was guilty of murder prosperous New or manslaughter. Year.
Welcome to Dural and Round Corner Chamber of Commerce The Benefits of Partnering with us! 4 Voice for members Dooral Roundup – October 2013 4 NSW Business Chamber Services 4 Networking 4 Regular Information and Updates 4 Regular Events 4 Promotions www.duralchamber.com.au
12 Dooral Roundup – December 2013 44th NSW to Keep Parliament AAA Opening With Ray Williams With Alex Hawke - Member for Mitchell NSW is one of only two states to retain a triple-A credit rating, after Standard & Poor’s affirmed its It was an honour and a privilege to be sworn in as the rating recently. federal parliamentary representative for the residents of Mitchell for a third term. he report considered NSW’s financial management T as positive in an international context, supported he official opening is full of ceremony and tradition by the institutional settings and the state’s tightened T including, starting the day with a church service, the management of its operating expenditure and government welcome to country ceremony and the swearing in of the businesses. Maintaining our triple-A credit rating has House of Representative members. I also had the immense been a huge challenge when you consider the massive pleasure of being introduced by the newly-elected Speaker, downgrade in revenues across the country, and the the Hon Bronwyn Bishop MP to Her Excellency the significant infrastructure backlog we inherited here in Governor-General, the Honourable Quentin Bryce AC CVO. NSW. But this announcement by Standard & Poor’s is an Christmas is a time of year where we come together endorsement of the NSW Governments strong financial as a community to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ management, which has enabled us to boost our frontline and Australia’s services and invest in critical infrastructure for the people Christian of NSW. The fact NSW remains on negative outlook is heritage, which confirmation that we continue to face difficult financial has made our circumstances and there is still much work left to do country such to get the state back to a sustainable surplus position. a peaceful, Expense control and the NSW Government’s asset tolerant and transactions program will remain critical to strengthening successful the state’s balance sheet over the next 12 months. We have nation. It is a already started to release funds by recycling assets on the time to celebrate and enjoy this season with your family state’s balance sheet through our successful transactions, and friends. On behalf of Amelia and myself I wish you including the refinancing of the Sydney Desalination and your family a very Merry Christmas, and a happy, Plant, long-term lease of Port Botany and Port Kembla, safe and prosperous 2014. and the sale of the state’s electricity generators.
Visit http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_ This report is another vote of confidence that Business/Bills_Legislation to follow the current Bills this government is making the right decisions to through the Parliament. prioritise and deliver for the people of NSW.
Join today and receive 10% discount off membership fee of $150 Business Name: Type of Business: Owner/Operator Name: Address: Phone: Email: Post to PO Box 2 Round Corner Dural 2158 or drop into Suite 2, 18 Kenthurst Rd Dural For more information Contact Rod Cuevas on 9651 3473.
December 2013 – Dooral Roundup 13 ROUND CORNER
Salvation Army Bushfire Appeal
November 11th found the community gather to raise money for the Salvation Army Bushfire Appeal.
osted for over 200 attendees by Raj Kumar at Biviano’s Hin Dural, organised alongside Gareth McCray, Rajiv Chaudhri and Hannah Webb, the night raised $25,000 for bushfire victims. Special guests included Blue Mountains MP Roza Sage, Salvation Army captain Phillip Sharp and RFS officer David Jones, all from the Blue Mountains. Attendees were entertained with moving performances by Miss Marlissa Ann Punzalan and David Sanders and were able to bid on generously donated items with auctioneer Jim Taggert. Mr Jones commends “funds will be used to provide much needed supplies which are needed to assist individuals, families and communities with the rebuilding process and allow them to recover with the dignity and respect they deserve.’’
The generosity of the Hills community is endless and Australians are praised for their acts of kindness and support to people in need.
14 Dooral Roundup – December 2013 December 2013 – Dooral Roundup 15 THE WAY WE WERE
LOCAL PAPERS REPORT, DECEMBER 2013 Dural and District Historical Society The Water Tower and Hunt Trig Margaret McKinley, with reference to “These Walls of Time” by Ken Roughley
The Water Storage tower in Galston Road is crowned Hunt family had by a Trig. Site, named after John Charles Hunt, THE their own cricket HUNT TRIG. team and cricket pitch, which was t is 222 metres above sea level, and so has the same altitude as exactly where the I Glenbrook, the first town that you come to when driving up water tower is the Blue Mountains. It is the highest point in the Metropolitan now. area. John Charles The tower was built in 1937, one of the last constructions Hunt was to be put up through grants given to Hornsby Shire as “Relief” born in 1856 for the unemployed after the Depression. Waddell’s Orchard at Dural, the was the third property to benefit from mains water supply. fifth son of George and Elizabeth (nee Williams). He was Hunt’s citrus orchard stretched along Galston Road from educated at the Denominational and national schools at St. Jude’s Church to “Shamrock Vale”, which is just before the Dural and Parramatta and then Newington College. He little creek that becomes Colah Creek. The orchard covered married Annie Golledge and they had 9 children, 5 boys about 200 acres, including where Swanes Nursery is now. The and 4 girls. They all moved to live in Parramatta in 1906. He was very active in public life, and was president of the Fruit Growers Assoc .and many other organisations. In 1907 he was elected as the first President of Hornsby Shire, which had been formed in 1906. He was also M.L.A, for Sherbrooke , and later for Camden He died in 1930, and is buried in the Methodist section of the Dural Cemetery. Hunt Avenue, off Carters Road, Dural is named after the Hunt family. It was originally called Vineys Road North, being an extension of Vineys Road South, across the inaccessible gorge of Tunks Creek. The name was changed in late 1950’s. History Cottage will be closed from Sunday 15th December at 3pm till opening on Wednesday January 15th at 10 am. Wishing you all a happy Christmas and New Year. Don’t forget to gather and record all those family stories when you have an opportunity over the holiday break.
Future generations will thank you for your stories.
16 Dooral Roundup – December 2013 BUSINESS OVERVIEW Is your Car Performing at its Peak?
Welcome to Newline Automotive your one stop shop With Christmas holidays looming now is the time to for all auto services. ensure your car is holiday worthy. At Newline Automotive you can be assured your car will perform! ew owner Shaun Tabrett invites you to pop in for a chat Nabout what your car requires to keep it performing at Phone Shaun or Theo on 9651 1411. its best. From a simple oil change to a major transmission or engine diagnostics service, Newline Automotive have the equipment and the “know how”. When was the last time you had your brakes checked: are your tyres under inflated? Simple issues like these can result in dangerous conditions for you and other road users. Until the end of the year Newline Automotive is offering 10% off all services and as an added bonus, local high school students and university students receive 15% of any service. Specialising in European makes and models Newline Automotive offer a range of car repairs and checks including: brakes and clutch services, registration inspections, log book servicing, EFI tuning and a complete range of safety checks, and the centre is fully equipped with all the latest equipment. Joining Shaun after a period absence is Theo Horst. Between them is over 40 years of experience servicing and maintaining cars and Shaun and Theo can handle every type of automotive service or repair.
We specialise in all makes of European cars
n A team with over 40 years experience n Brake & clutch services n Registration inspections n Log-book servicing n EFI tuning n Safety checks n Over 15 years serving the needs of dural
Unit 25, Dural Business Park 286 New Line Road Dural NSW 2158 P. 9651 1411 F. 9651 5121
December 2013 – Dooral Roundup 17 school news
Sportsperson Of The Year – Joshua Anderson The highest sporting award that is presented at Oakhill is the Sportsperson of the Year. Our 2013 Sportsperson of the Year is very much what Oakhill is all about. We had Year 12 students excelling in individual sports, students representing across a range of sports and those who won premierships for the College largely due to their involvement. Joshua Anderson has represented Oakhill in Sport from Year 7 through to Year 12. Without making too many rep teams, he was always very much part of the success that his teams achieved. Year 12 saw him captain the 1sts XV Rugby side and then represent at NSW and Australian level. He was named Best Team Man for the undefeated NSW schools side before being named as the 6th Oakhill student in the College’s history to be selected in an Australian schools rugby side. Joshua is a modest and humble young man who has achieved impressive things this year.
He leaves the College as a young man that many young Oakhill students will look up to and with a role model like Josh, he ensures that Oakhill will continue to develop good young men on and off the sporting field.
Dhivya Kalyanakuma and Dylan Hill congratulate heat winners Guy Gallagher and Kyna Diancin.
Sign-Off Spelling Bee community. For many years Hills Grammar has integrated The Hills Grammar hearing impaired students in Year 11 RIDBC Thomas Pattison School students into the daily program have been busy this term teaching Auslan to the senior school and offered scholarships to students entering Year 10/11. tutor groups. Learning another language isn’t easy, however, the students have taken to the challenge with enthusiasm. The The Auslan ‘Sign Off’ saw each house choose their two project has aimed at raising awareness of the Deaf Society of most fluent Auslan speakers to a grand final to be held NSW in order to further integrate the deaf students into our at the end of term.
18 Dooral Roundup – December 2013 Anna Marsh Yoga & Pilates Teacher Dip Yoga, Cert IV Pilates Matwork, Cert III Fitness, BTh, Grad Dip Ed. m. 0433 878 082 e. [email protected] www.yourbodywellness.com.au YOGA & PILATES taught at three different venues in the Hills District: DURAL SQUASH COURTS l GALSTON COMMUNITY HALL CHERRYBROOK UNITING CHURCH $20 per lesson for Casual Visit l $15 per lesson for Term Pack bookings Essential Lower Rates for additional Classes l Full Time StudenT rates
a week at Castle Hill RSL. She has already achieved much success over the last few years, including gold medals at CHS and competing at the Indo-Pacific Championships last year. At the World Championships in November 2013 she made the final top 8 in the individual trampoline with a start list of 55. In the final she finished 7th. Imogen and her partner, Jessica, won a bronze medal in the final of the synchronised trampolining event after entering in 6th position – an amazing result! Imogen is a dedicated athlete who spends many hours High Flyer working on her strength and skills. She has enjoyed an amazing Galston High School’s amazing 12 year old Imogen Florian experience both culturally and competitively and has now has recently competed in the World Age Trampolining turned her eye to the Olympic Games. Championships in Bulgaria. Imogen has been a gymnast since the age of 7 and trains in her chosen sport 11 hours The Galston community will be waiting and watching!
The IT Crowd perfect score while classmate Matthew Rashleigh achieved The School of IT at the University of Sydney challenged high a High Distinction in the beginners section. Year 7 student school students over 5 weeks to a computer programming Daniel Forrest, achieved High Distinctions in both the competition ranging in degrees of difficulty. Hills Grammar Beginners and Intermediate Challenges. uses this Challenge with our Year 10 Information and Software Technology students as well as offering it to other The students are looking forward to ‘taking it up a interested students. Kate Alderton (Year 10) produced a level’ next year.
December 2013 – Dooral Roundup 19 QUAFF IT TRAVEL A Taste of History With Hugh Martin – Bluestar Beverages
The Loire, Bordeaux, Champagne ... when planning a wine-tasting trip to France, these are the regions that spring to mind. World’s largest ut few people realise that it’s also possible to combine Bthe country’s most enjoyable pastime with a trip to its Ferris Wheel favourite city, and that, tucked away on top of Montmartre hill, in the shadow of Sacré-Coeur, there is a pretty, working Las Vegas is getting the world’s largest Ferris vineyard. wheel, dubbed the High Roller. Unlike much of the popular neighborhood, the Montmartre vineyards have not become touristy or t 550 feet, the High Roller is 9 feet taller than its kitschy. This is still a local, Parisian affair, which should A closest competitor, the Singapore Flyer, and 100 not intimidate you. In fact you will feel welcome to join feet taller than the London Eye. It’s a hair taller than the wine lovers from all over France, locals and tourists, and Bellagio hotel, though not as tall as the Wynn Las Vegas. pack into the funicular that takes you up to the vineyard. But it won’t be the looking down on the rest for long. The 625-foot New York Wheel is expected to steal its tallest- Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and a small amount in-the-world thunder in 2016. And a rival company is of Sémillon are common grape varietals found here but building SkyVue, a 500-foot observation wheel at the obviously there are many more to be discovered! The southern end of the Strip. area was once covered The wheel built between the Flamingo and Harrah’s with vineyards, but hotel-casino as part of the outdoor Linq project by like the urbanization Caesars Entertainment Corp., will carry 3.5 million of all cities, real pounds of steel. That’s more than the weight of 200 estate and other Hummers. Each cable holding the wheel in place has a forces transformed breaking force equal to 550 tons, the weight of nearly 100 agricultural land into elephants. Workers have assembled parts of the wheel over the course of two years in China, Japan, France, Sweden, residential property. No stranger to wine, Montmartre Italy, the Netherlands, Germany and Colorado. has been home to a Roman temple dedicated to Bacchus Each of the ride’s 28 enclosed cabins will be made and a 12th century Benedectine abbey with a wine press from four sheets of laminated glass covering 300 square and vineyards. feet each.
So when you’re done with the garlic snails and Each cabin will have the capacity to carry up to that copy of Hemmingway, jump on the metro to 40 passengers for a revolution that will take 30 Montmarte and step into wine lovers history! minutes to complete.
Solar and Gas Pool Heating Solar Showers l LED Pool Lighting Filters and Pumps Sales l Service l Installation Unit 27, 286-288 New Line Rd solarmagicmagic Phone: 9651 6855 SOLAR HEATING & POOL EQUIPMENT www.solarmagic.com.au
20 Dooral Roundup – December 2013 solarmagicmagic SOLAR HEATING & POOL EQUIPMENT HEALTH & BEAUTY MA’S KITCHEN Benefits of Healthy Greek Style Lamb Eating with Tzatiki
There are countless benefits for eating a healthy Quick, simple, Greek feast. diet rich in fruit, vegetables, wholegrains, nuts and seeds, low fat dairy, lean meat and meat INGREDIENTS alternatives. 4 garlic cloves 4 tbsp olive oil ot only will your quality of life be improved, research juice 1 lemon Nalso suggests that those who eat a wide variety of 1 tbsp dried oregano nutritious foods enjoy living a longer life. 1 tbsp thyme leaf 2 bay leaves Other benefits of healthy eating include: 1 leg of lamb, butterflied > Maintaining a healthy weight. flatbreads, to serve > Reduces risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and For the tzatziki certain types of cancer. 170g pot Greek yogurt > Increases energy levels. 1 small garlic clove, crushed > Assists a healthy immune system. handful mint leaves, chopped Regularly eating foods that are high in energy, fat, ½ cucumber, halved and deseeded added sugar and/or salt leads to weight gain and puts you at risk of developing lifestyle diseases as you get older. METHOD So steer away from fried and fatty take-away foods, 1. Mash the garlic to a paste, mix with the olive oil, lemon baked products like pastries, cakes and biscuits, savoury juice, oregano and thyme leaves, season salt and pepper. Pour snacks like chips, and sugar-sweetened drinks and look the marinade over the lamb and massage into the meat. Leave after your body and your health. the lamb for at least 1 hour at room temperature, but no longer than overnight or the meat will become too soft. 2. To cook on the barbecue, wait for the coals to turn ashen, then lay the lamb on the grill and cook for 15 mins on each side for meat that is pink, or 20 mins on each side for well done. 3. To make the tzatziki, coarsely grate the cucumber, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and squeeze out all the liquid. Tip into a bowl with the yogurt, garlic and mint, and mix well. Carve the lamb into thick slices and serve with the tzatziki wrapped up in Combined with being active, healthy eating is good warm flatbreads. for you in so many ways including maintaining a healthy weight and improved mental well being. A Greek salad is a perfect accompaniment.
December 2013 – Dooral Roundup 21 HOME ENTERTAINMENT REVIEW The 27th ARIA Sydney Awards Shakespeare Festival
The ARIAs have started to repair the damage Sydney Independent Theatre Company (SITCO) 2010’s car-crash award show had on their ratings presents Sydney Shakespeare Festival at the Old and credibility. Fitzroy Theatre until 21 December 2013.
he 2013 ARIA Awards were watched by 337,000 our-time Aria award Tviewers on Channel 9’s digital station Go! The figures F winner Paul Grabowsky weren’t enough to crack the Top 20 most watched show, brinWith new artistic and although it’s an improvement on last year, the show director Richard Hilliar, the was still outrated by a repeat of the Big Bang Theory. festival features on alternate Last year’s ARIAs rated 304,000, despite US star Taylor nights possibly Shakespeare’s Swift and a feel-good international success story via Gotye. greatest tragedy, King Lear and his comic exploration Ironically the car-crash year, 2010, was watched by 634,000 of justice, hypocrisy, mercy and corruption, Measure people - figures the ARIAs for Measure. One of Sydney’s summer event highlights would kill for now. for the past six years, Sydney Shakespeare Festival has The awards were heavily moved from Bicentennial Park on the Glebe Foreshore edited with a three hour to the iconic Old Fitzroy Theatre in Woolloomooloo. delay before they made it to In King Lear, an elderly and wearied king decides TV. Guy Sebastian took so to divide his kingdom between his three daughters. long on the red carpet he But an iron-fisted ruler who throws away power on missed his first ever industry- the expectation of filial loyalty builds his happiness voted ARIA Award. Luckily on shifting sands. In Measure for Measure, the city of because of the lengthy delay the event was able to re-stage Vienna is sunk in a swamp of sex, drugs and violence. the award later on, allowing Sebastian to collect it in Unwilling to do it himself, the Duke appoints a young person and be included on the eventual broadcast. deputy, renowned for righteousness and austerity, Long gaps in the proceedings meaning many industry to clean up the streets. However, the deputy’s brutal types at Sydney’s Star got bored and were loitering outside campaign against vice is unsettled by the appearance of the venue during the show, leaving many empty seats. an unexpectedly alluring nun.
Live performances, however, were roundly praised Directed by Richard Hilliar, set and lighting design as the highlight of the event - with live music from by David Jeffrey and costume design by Rachel Bliss N Eso, Vance Joy, Jessica Mauboy, Birds of Scane, Sydney Shakespeare Festival features a Tokyo, Flume, Tame Impala and international guest versatile and talented ensemble cast who perform Alicia Keys. in both plays.
22 Dooral Roundup – December 2013 REAL ESTATE FINANCIAL MATTERS Cheer and Lower Cheers deeming rate With Gaye Wheatley Good News With Wayne Griffiths The housing market is bringing long awaited price rises which are predicted to continue into 2014! Almost three quarters of a million part ural property prices are on the rise again. With pensioners will benefit from a 0.5 per cent drop D RPData figures showing median prices are starting to in Social Security deeming rates announced in approach the 2010 record highs, there has never been October. a better time to buy or sell in this market. Buyers are aware that there is still room for market ocial Services Minister Kevin Andrews said the rate movement while most sellers are already looking at Swould decrease from 2.5 per cent to 2 per cent for substantial profits. It is one of those rare win win times in financial investments up to $46,600 for single pensioners the market. The astute buyer and seller will change over in and allowees, and $77,400 for pensioner couples. The the same market taking the risk out of the equation. upper rate, for investment balances over those amounts, I can not recall another time quite like it with has decreased from 4 per cent to 3.5 per cent. predictions that there will be absolutely no lull over the Pensioner Deeming Accounts are special accounts to Christmas period. Quite the opposite, when the market anyone over 55 or is active as it is at present, the Christmas period is on a government seen as the perfect time for property because the entire pension. The deeming family is available for the inspections and to sit around rates are set by the and make these important life decisions. Commonwealth A quick Google search of “RPData Dural” will give Government and used free access to the suburb profile and recent sales reports to calculate income and it’s immediately obvious that we are on a real estate for pension and social role. benefits. The deeming In the 12 months ended December 3, 2013, 53 houses rules are used to assess have been sold in the area at a median residential price income from financial investments for Social Security and of $725,000 and an average 114 days on the market. veterans’ allowance purposes, and represent the return The days on market mainly relate to the acreage market financial assets are deemed to be earning. however with some residential properties they are sold with Deeming is a simple and fair way to assess income in the week! from financial assets, as: > the same deeming rules are used for all financial assets If you would like an update on your home please > it has increased predictability and has reduced the call Century21 Dural on 9651 5522 – we offer a no extent to which income support payments fluctuate, obligation appraisal. > it increases incentives for income support recipients to maximise total income, > it simplifies choice of investments as it encourages income support recipients to choose investments on CENTURY 21 their merits, PRIME PROPERTY DURAL > it has removed the 3 legislative savings provisions for investments, which applied assessment rules depending WITH THE LATEST IN on when the investment was purchased. TECHNOLOGY WE LEASE & SELL MORE Should you wish to go through the possibilities please call us at W. Griffiths & Co Pty Ltd on MORE PROPERTIES URGENTLY NEEDED! 9651 5522 9651 2288.
Disclaimer: This is general information only. We take no responsibility for any errors, omissions or possible misleading statements. This is not designed as a substitute for professional advice and we suggest that such advice is sought.
December 2013 – Dooral Roundup 23 AROUND THE HOME Good Things What is a Come In Small Subway Tile? Packages With Amy McAlpine With Neil Turrell Subway tiles are a type of tile that is used in both traditional and modern homes. IWith a smaller home comes smaller living space; however design elements can make a small house t’s timeless look does not date and is constantly recurring plan feel big. I within the interior design industry. The subway tile is 100 x 300mm in size which makes it easy to arrange and f you are working with a smaller home consider style. The subway tile was originally nick named after I vaulted ceilings. Vaulted ceilings are not only visibly New York City subway station tiles used in the early 20th attractive but they also add an element of space and century. make rooms look significantly larger. For added style, In today’s design industry subways are constantly used consider a barrel-vaulted ceiling, with a radius angle throughout the residential and commercial buildings connecting the two roof planes. majority of the residential homes have them placed as Doorways and walls take up space so consider kitchen or laundry splashbacks. You can use the subway designing open kitchen and living room plans to create tiles in a basic vertical or horizontal pattern however there an element of added space. Adjoining an open plan are multiple ways subway’s can use to achieve a particular outdoor area is also ideal as it can extend the indoor interior look. space into the outdoors for added feeling of room. Using the subway tiles Large floor to ceiling glass doors and windows will help in a brick pattern will connect the outdoors with the indoors. emphasise the grout lines The right windows will also help create space. Any and create an irregular windows that are placed above eye level will lend a small pattern to the eye, which will home extra spaciousness. High windows will help create act as a feature. Another natural light and also make walls appear to be larger interesting way to use and hence, the subway tiles is in a diagonal room will appear pattern across the wall, which will create a texture feature bigger. to any room. This is most popular within Scandinavian industrial Interiors. Finally keep a simplistic, World of Tiles, Castle Hill we have a new range of clean style subway tiles available in with many sizes, colours throughout and designs starting as low as $21.00m2 so hurry in your home. while stock last.
24 Dooral Roundup – December 2013 Outdoor Gardening in Lighting the Summer By Michael Freame, as heard on ABC 702 With Katrina Milne “Homies” Saturdays 10.00am “The Pool Guy”.
Nothing makes your outdoor space come to life at If you have mulched your garden and fertilised it, night better than some quality outdoor lighting. When then you are ready for Summer. you are starting out lighting outdoor areas you will need to decide if the lighting is needed for safety or uring summer you need to make sure that your plants to create an ambiance. D are well watered. Vegetable gardens need a little more frequent watering. If you have garden beds that either cop or safety strong bright full sun or the afternoon sun, consider adding some shade F lighting is a must and in the form of shade sails or shade cloth. there are many options for During summer it is very important that you look safety lighting around your after your grass. It is also important that when you mow yard. From a simple flood light to light the whole back during summer, you raise the blades a little higher than yard, to dedicated spot lights for lighting a path or the normal. Longer grass helps protect the root system, shed your best option is to go for 240 volt lighting and keeping it cooler, which helps it to survive and stay as switch them from a convenient place inside your home. green as possible. This will give you the longest life and best quality strong It is a good idea to give your lighting to make things as safe as possible. For all 240 volt plants at the very least a monthly lighting please get an electrician involved. feed with a good fertiliser. To create an ambience around your back yard low Keep an eye on your flowering voltage lighting is the way to go. With the range of new LED plants. Once they have finished outdoor lights now available you can do it yourself as they are flowering, give them a light trim all generally 12 volt. To create an ambiance the general rule either early in the morning or very is less is best. A single light to “up light” a spectacular tree in late in the afternoon or evening. your back yard may be all you need to create the space. Afternoon or evening is preferred because this gives your If you have a pool a simple way of improving your plants a night to get used to their new shape. outdoor lighting is to upgrade your pool lights to the new If you have prepared your garden well, it should Aquaquip LED models. They are cheaper to run, give a handle summer and provide you with a great backdrop brighter light, work with any common low voltage supply for all the summer BBQ’s you are going to host! and the globe doesn’t need replacing.
Langlands Landscape Supplies would like to thank Starting at $320 for a single colour and just $375 all their wonderful customers for their continued for the multi colour they could be the start for your support throughout 2013 and to wish everyone a outdoor lighting and won’t break the bank. merry Christmas and a safe & healthy new year.
December 2013 – Dooral Roundup 25 CLUB NEWS TRADIES & PROFESSIONALS
Christmas Cheer with the Rotary Club of Galston
It was Cheers all around with the Rotary Club of Galston’s Annual Senior Citizens Christmas Dinner. sawaya SOLICITORS Conveyancing, Family & other Legal Matters. t has been a tradition with the club to invite the local senior residents to a Efficient and friendly Professional Service. I dinner at the Galston club to celebrate the festive season. 84A Annangrove Road, Kenthurst Over 110 people enjoyed merriment from start to finish from the fabulous Phone: 9654 2555 table decorations provide by Kay Fitzpatrick to fabulous food and fantastic Carols. The Community services director Rog Hilton said “it gives us great ants pants pleasure to give some joy to our senior citizens, especially at this time of the Residential/Commercial/Strata year!” he continued, “we wouldn’t be able to put this dinner without the All Pest Treatment wonderful help of all those involved especially our Galston Rotarians who Termite Specialistl Phone: 9654 0268 Mobile: 0413 160 190 always work tirelessly for the community. The Clubs motto of providing service to the community whilst having was certainly upheld”. absolute automotive
All Mechanical Repairs & Complete President Harley Newham and the members of The Rotary Club of Servicing for all Make & Model Vehicles Galston wish to thank everyone for supporting their activities during Unit 2, Old Northern Road, Dural the year and look forward to a Happy and Rewarding 2014. LPG Rego Phone: 9651 4529
lindus dry cleaners Seniors Welcome 15% Pre paid discount for all Seniors Unit 2, Old Northern Road, Dural Phone: 9651 2776
97 year olds Patsy Weaver, Kathleen Quadrio and Lyneece Middleton.
26 Dooral Roundup – December 2013 TRADIES & PROFESSIONALS
Highpressureclean.com.au Environmentally Friendly Pressure Cleaning Driveways Tennis Courts Paths Pool Surrounds Pavers House Wash Pre-sale preparation and presentation PHONE NOW 9899 8899 Before After Residential, Strata, Commercial
L1928868-150909 highpressureclean.com.au is a division of Ability Property Maintenance
December 2013 – Dooral Roundup 27 TRADIES & PROFESSIONALS
Hills Ellis Building Service Jaguar Modern or Classic • Renovation & additions Building Servicing & Repairs • Decks & outdoor living areas in the Hills Diesel & Petrol Models • Design and council arranged 34 yrs By appointment Call Brian Building Contractors contact Andy Sandlin M: 0418 474592 [email protected] P. 0419 125 218 Bus: 9654 2828 Lic no 9095c 48 Blacks Road Arcadia www.ellisbuildingcontractors.com.au
Audio Visual Lighting * Staging Your local Special Events Service Gala Functions & Celebrations Awards Ceremonies & Conferences School Musicals, Design & Installation For free advice call 9651 7555
W. hfeventservices.com.au E. [email protected]
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28 Dooral Roundup – December 2013
GENERAL PRACTICE Specialising in Preventitive Health Annangrove Family Practice 9679 1100 SHOP 5, 169 ANNANGROVE RD Annangrove NSW 2156 BULK BILLING Monday - Friday Saturday 8.30am - 6pm 8.30am - 2pm Services • Female & Male GP’s • Psychiatrist • Paediatrician • Audiology • Ultrasound • Weight Management Clinic (Dietitian Available) • Pathology Collection on Site ALSO NOW CONSULTING Obstetrician, Gynaecologist, Psychologist, Physiotherapist, Dietitian.
Dr. Jawahar K. Thomas MB, BS, ECFMG, FRACGP Dr. Mahishi Nanayakkara MB, BS, FRACGP Dr. Shervin Amirmalek MB, BS, FRACP