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Volume 194 Print circulation 570 — Readership keeps growing December 2019

Gundaroo’s Christmas lead-up begins early began gearing up the inaugural Open Gardens collaborated in for the festive season at the end of was declared a big success. a widely varied November. On the weekend of 23rd The general repertoire of and 24th, citizens and friends enjoyed opinion was traditional four big events – and they all ‘played that all four songs and selected to packed houses’. gardens – Fieldstone, Christmas Bungendore Open Gardens and Capital Fox’s Folly season songs. Brewing tasting with live music ran all (pictured), (See page 13.) weekend. ‘Concert at the Courthouse’ Thornleigh was held on Saturday afternoon, and The Old A great ‘Food and Film’ combination followed by the Gundaroo Film Society Stonehouse – fundraising dinner on Saturday night. Gundaroo Film Society ended its year were with a specially catered dinner for a And, although not confined to the delightful in packed Hall of more than 90 members weekend, the exhibition of Nino their different and guests, followed by a popular ‘food Bellantonio’s art at the Cork Street Café ways. film’, Mostly Martha. and Gallery was well patronised. (See Six Bungendore charities benefited from page 13.) As always, this end-of-year feast raises the takings, as well as Abbeyfield Aged funds to help with maintenance and Bungendore Open Gardens Care fundraising committee (just from improvement of the Hall. (See Film Having hosted over the weekend more selling morning and afternoon teas). Society article on page 6.) than 1,100 visitors (not counting The weekend is being considered for a Fireside Chats and journey to Bethlehem children) – including from Gundaroo – regular place in the Open Gardens calendar. An idea for Gundaroo? As we move closer to Christmas, it is also fitting that the last Fireside Chat (page 4) In this issue … Capital Brewing Co on Saturday 7 December be called Charles Local News pp 1–3 The Colonial Inn hosted a beer tasting Dickens and the making of Christmas. Christmas season services p.3 put on by new community-minded And from now until Christmas Eve, Gundaroo Community Noticeboard pp 4–5 boutique brewery, Capital Brewing Co, in and visitors can witness the journey to Film Society p 6 Fyshwick, accompanied by excellent live Bethlehem taking place day by day across School News p 7 music by Tash on piano and guitar on the grounds of the Community Church. Fire Brigade bulletin p 8 Saturday and duo Escapado on Sunday. 1st Gundaroo Scouts p 9 So many ‘tasters’ on the weekend also ‘In Living Memory’ pp 10–11 multiplied the meals from Rolling Hills Hearing, Seeing, Feeling p 13 Kichen. A big weekend all round. Silly season, silly question? p 15 Concert in the Courthouse Scale insect pests p 17 The ‘Concert at the Courthouse’ Wildcare wrap-up 2018–19 p 19 entertained a packed audience in St Our cricketers scoring well p 21 Marks Church, raising funds to help Shop trading days/hours p 22 maintain the historic building. Eateries p 23 The Canberra Men’s Choir, the small Church services p 23 Kooranga Ensemble of instrumental Emergency & community contacts p 24 strings and woodwinds, and the Gundaroo Community Singers

Quotes for the season “Christmas is a season not only of rejoicing, but of reflection.” Winston Churchill (1874–1965) British statesman, army officer, writer Prime Minister of the United Kingdom 1940–45 and 1951–55 “ … and on earth, peace, and good will toward men” Luke 2:14 (King James version) “Cheers to a new year and another chance to get it right.” Oprah Winfrey (b. 1954) American TV host, producer and executive, author, philanthropist

1 LOCAL NEWS

A new website proposed history page data”, and that his work the owner had ‘fled the scene’ only to for Gundaroo “will be annotated in some way so that arrive home the next day to be greeted visitors to the site will be informed that by his distraught mum with a priest). A bequest from Gundaroo’s Challinor Graeme was the original author or Charlie told one of many possible stories family has sparked a proposal for a new website creator”. about a local TV journalist and his ‘all-encompassing’ website for the A meeting of community groups interesting life and ‘good-looking visitors’ Gundaroo community. organised by GCA on 13 November at his bush property near ‘Nelanglo’ – of The website builds on years of work by supported a proposal to develop a site a wide-eyed local breathlessly telling the the late Graeme Challinor on his history for all local community organisations. A wine bar patrons about his surprise and genealogy site gundaroo.info. That small working group was formed and encounter while mustering wild cattle on site was a great source of information will report back on progress. said property. and a valuable resource for people The Gundaroo Gazette is part of that And Cecil Burgess was able to confirm the seeking historical information about working group. truth of Charlie’s amazing tale of the families. It also had some information unique Gundaroo in-bar surgical solution from the Gundaroo Community Entertaining Historical to the problem of too many annoying Association (GCA), and from community Society AGM tomcats around the village 40 years ago. groups and businesses in the village. For Gundaroo ‘newbies’ (say, less than Cecil was the surgeon. Picture it. When Graeme died last year, it was felt 30 years), Charlie Permain’s random tales There was much more to each of these that his work should continue in some of his own personal ‘newbie’ days here in stories – as well as a few more. The form. Discussions between Liz Challinor, the 1960s and 70s were not only Gundaroo Gazette is attempting to soften Gundaroo & District Historical Society revealing but often hilarious. Charlie up to write the detail for future and GCA led to Liz and the family kindly Charlie was the guest speaker at the editions of the Gazette. Lend your passing on the site for village use. Gundaroo & District Historical Society support. It was also suggested that the site could Annual General Meeting on the evening The main reason for the gathering was, of be expanded beyond a historical source of 12 November. course, to conduct the business of an to one for the whole village and Charlie described his first encounter with AGM and elect office-bearers for 2019. surrounding community. Gundaroo-ite Gundaroo shortly after moving to This was all done before the guest Jed Johnson from Random Computing speaker took the stage. offered his help and has been working Canberra with CSIRO in 1966, living with five blokes in Downer, and meeting Lyn with Canberra company Throttle Media President and Treasurer reported sound White, who lived with another Gundaroo to investigate how to do this. McGrath finances and a forward plan under Real Estate has donated a very welcome girl in the house behind. development for 2019. $1,000 to help develop the website. He had also, at the time, started helping a All the 2018 office-bearers and committee mate build a house on the Gundaroo tip stood again and were re-elected: Peter road. So things began falling into place – Firth (President), Ron Miller (Vice-President and ‘one thing let to another’. and Promotions), Sue Burns (Secretary), For the next half hour, Charlie engaged Allan Gibson (Treasurer, Membership and the meeting in his random tales of Public Officer), Caroline Milne (Archive ‘hanging around the White’s house’, Officer), and Justin Barwick and Esther sailing off to London for a while, and Robinson (General Committee). returning to take up residence here with Keeping Santa ‘safe’? Lyn and build a house in Lute Street. Last year the higher-ups in the NSW This of course led to becoming a regular Rural Fire Service issued a bulletin that patron of the Gundaroo Wine Bar (the our Rural Fire Brigade is not keeping ‘Culture Centre’, where sherry and port Santa Claus safe enough when he visits were about 20 cents for a 2oz glass and it (l to r) Jed Johnston (Random Computing), Gundaroo to be driven around the was very easy to “talk for too long”); village to greet children and hand out Liz Challinor, Peter Firth (G&DHS), Chris wanting to get involved and ‘do stuff’ but Dixon (McGrath), Moraig McKenna (GCA) treats on Christmas Eve each year. being put in his place by the ‘old-timers’; The actions now being taken are helping revive the cricket club and the According to the ‘rules of the road’, it’s consistent with the letter of bequest ‘to tennis court; and generally how he too risky for Santa – who’s not a the Gundaroo community’ from Liz adapted to and fell in love with this firefighter – to stand in the crew area of Challinor on 4 August 2019. ‘magical place’ – the leisurely pace of a fire truck idling around our streets at That letter appointed Jed Johnson as the getting deliveries of petrol, mail and 10km/h smiling and waving at eager temporary custodian of the papers (and the bill!), and “leaving your happy children. gundaroo.info internet domain and data, troubles on the other side of the loose From now on, Santa must ride inside to be transferred to GCA and then to boards of the Gundaroo Bridge”. the cab of the truck and wave through G&DHS. Liz expresses being heartened Charlie’s stories included making good the window. that “the amalgamation of Graeme’s money loading hay at ‘Ruthfield’ after The Gundaroo Gazette has no brief to work may result in several groups and work; the ‘family’ reason for his encourage Santa or our Brigade to trusts coming together to collaborate on friendship with Jack Ryan; and the break a black-letter law, however a new overarching Gundaroo website police not finding a body in a car poorly formed that law may be. But which will find a home for Graeme’s washed off Booth’s Crossing (because here are two things to consider. 2 LOCAL NEWS First, it’s okay for fire crews to hang on playing music. Indeed a small ensemble and move about the crew area over from her Maruki Community Orchestra, Gundaroo not all ‘closed down’ rough bush tracks at higher speeds in in which she played the viola and over Christmas and New Year frightening and dangerous situations. practised only the day before she died, Gundaroo will not be completely ‘closing down’ That’s listed as an ‘exemption’. performed at the public celebration in over Christmas and January. Second, and most important. Every Canberra’s Albert Hall, along with choral While the proprietors of several popular Christmas, Santa Claus travels around the pieces sung by two nephews. Gundaroo gathering places are taking a well- globe from the North Pole. Gundaroo’s ‘Concert at the Courthouse’ a earned rest, a core group will open for some parts of some days except, not surprisingly, ― He sits in an open sleigh that flies week later gave further dedication to Christmas Day and New Year’s Day and some without wings, pulled at eye-watering Anne and her enrichment of the cultural adjacent days. speeds and dizzying altitudes by a life of this community. Venues have supplied The Gundaroo Gazette team of reindeers without wings. And Jim Burnett, very well-known to many with the following information for that period he’s never been booked. Gundaroo pub patrons, was farewelled in and for Day (Sunday 26 January). ― He is not protected by a seat belt, a an overflowing lively and fun-filled helmet, or any sort of roll-over ceremony at ‘Bushfield Farm’ – not just for Gundaroo Grocer and Post Office protection, and his huge load of Gundaroo family and friends, but also for Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Fri 27 Dec, presents is not tied down or in a many in the TV industry who travelled from and New Year’s Day ― Closed special compartment. And he’s never afar to share their stories. These travellers Australia Day weekend 25–27 Jan ― To be been booked. included four famous Australian TV advised ― He travels through massive comedians who credited Jim with Restricted trading hours on some other days. variations in climate conditions encouraging and mentoring them in their See details on page 22 without any special protection. careers, and writing, collaborating and Gundaroo Colonial Inn and Restaurant ― He does all his own navigation and producing many of their performances. landing and take-off procedures, Christmas Eve – Pub open from 12pm Celebrations at the pub went long into thereby being exposed to tornadoes, New Year’s Eve – Pub open from 12pm the evening. Christmas Day, Boxing Day – both closed cyclones, typhoons, dust storms, New Year’s Day – both closed floods, and yes … wildfires. [Late News: As I write this, I’ve just returned from the huge Canberra Otherwise, regular trading hours (see page 23) And we’ve not yet heard of any form of celebration at The Commonwealth Club Cork Street Café accident or injury – slight or serious – of the life of Bill Watson (with a property Last trading day ― Sat 21 Dec, 2pm least of all falling out of the sleigh. Re-open ― Fri 3 Jan, regular trading hours on Rd), tragically killed in a car Australia Day ― Open Despite his faultless record much longer crash near Adaminaby on 22 November.] than any mere mortal has been using Grazing our roads, it is nonetheless declared Weeds update Last trading day ― Sun 22 Dec too risky and dangerous for Santa to Re-open ― Thurs 16 Jan Some ‘weeds’ thrive in droughts. Two that Australia Day ― Open stand on the back of a fire truck and are rapidly spreading in our region are ‘hang on’ at little more than walking Gundog Estate African Lovegrass and Chilean Needlegrass 24, 25, 26 Dec – Closed speed. No exemption – even for Santa. (see recent Gazette editions). Fri 27 Dec ― Open What are ‘they’ thinking when they Both are listed as ‘priority weeds’ in the W/end 28–29 Dec ― Open until 4pm make up these rules? Just saying. Yass Valley Local Strategic Weeds Plan. New Year’s Eve and Day ― Closed Australia Day― Closed (but may change) Tragic losses, memorable The Gundaroo Gazette reported in September about consultation on the Tallagandra Hill Winery farewells Last trading day – Sun 22 Dec draft Yass Valley weed control plan. Re-open ― Sat 25 Jan Very recently, suddenly, a week apart, Council biosecurity staff assessed all Australia Day ― Open Gundaroo lost two of its well-loved submissions, and Council accepted the For private appointment/events ― Open on citizens – Dr Anne Bicknell and Jim amended plan at its October meeting. request. Call 0416 330 897. Burnett. The final Plan can be accessed at The Gundaroo Gazette has no special https://www.yassvalley.nsw.gov.au/asset Christmas Church Services column for these life events, and doesn’t s/2019/Council-Documents/Weeds-Local- Catholic – St Joseph’s plan to create one. But from time to Management-Plan-2019-.pdf Harp Street time, funerals and life celebrations News from our State MP Mass, Christmas Day 9.00am cannot go unremarked. Gundaroo Community Church Member for Goulburn, Wendy Not unlike the day-and-night Lot Street Tuckerman, made few Gundaroo- Carols and Readings celebration for Scott Windsor in 2015, relevant announcements last month. Christmas Eve 9.00pm Anne’s and Jim’s families generously gave us all the opportunity to hear and But some previously announced grants Anglican – St Mark’s share their stories in very public and awards programs remain open. Cork Street For a list of these, refer to the November Communion Service celebrations. Christmas Eve 4.00pm edition of The Gundaroo Gazette. . Both occasions were memorable for the All services are available to all the tangible evidence of their lives and the To access our MP’s full statements, Gundaroo community and visitors. positive impact they had on others. readers can email or call her media A happy and peace-filled Christmas to Anne’s outstanding contributions to officer (Paige Penning, 0438 070 493) or the general electorate office address. everyone from the Christian communities medicine and patient care were well of Gundaroo. remembered, as was her passion for 3 COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

GUNDAROO AND DISTRICT

HISTORICAL SOCIETY

2020 Calendar Christmas Greetings A great Christmas and New Year present! Councillors and staff take pleasure in NOW ON SALE … $15 wishing the Gundaroo community a very Gundaroo Friendly Grocer & Post Office Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! or send an order to: [email protected] Changed operating hours and

All proceeds support the Society in researching and preserving services during the festive season the history of Gundaroo and district. Council's regular operating hours and services will change during the festive period. • Council’s Administration Office, Depot, Home Living Support Service and Library will close at close-of-business on Friday, 20 December 2019 and re-open on Thursday, 2 January 2020. • Swimming pools will be closed on Tuesday, 25 December (Christmas Day) and Wednesday, 26 December (Boxing Day). • Yass Valley Information Centre will be closed on Tuesday, 25 December (Christmas Day). • Transfer Stations will be closed from 12pm Monday, 24 December (Christmas Eve), and on Tuesday, 25 December (Christmas Day) and Wednesday, 1 January 2020 (New Year’s Day). Council’s on-call Duty officer will be available “Charles Dickens throughout the entire festive period for an urgent Council-related matter. To contact the Duty Officer. call and the making Council on 6226 1477 and your call will be redirected to of Christmas.” the after-hours mobile number. In an emergency, please call the Police on 000 or 6226 9399.

Gunning medical services – 4845 1166 Doctors and allied health services. Fireside Chats (Phone for bookings and more information) Lorna Fleetwood will share her musings Gunning Pharmacy – 4845 1339 on a topical subject. Monday to Friday 9.00 to 5.00pm Function Room Saturday 9.00pm to 1.00pm Gundaroo Colonial Inn 4.00–5.00pm Saturday 7 December Gundaroo Colonial Inn All ages are welcome to Chris ‘Choppy’ Connor welcomes attend this free event staff inquiries Call 6236 8155, 0490 031 271

4 COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

From ‘The Desk’ It is my pleasure once again to say ‘thank you’. Thank you all for your continuing support and encouragement. Thank you to all our contributors, and to our advertisers, without whom there could be no print version – which many of you say you prefer. Thank you, as always, to the stellar team at DR Print in Mitchell. Boss Derek, with Gordon and Lin Bei, provide peerless service and continue to excel in meeting my usually desperate turnaround times each month – and at a more-than-fair price. Thank you to our RMB distributors – Colin Lee, Maureen Trevanion, John Corry and Therese Kershaw. Sadly, Therese has to leave the team after this edition, and we’ll need a new volunteer to deliver along Shingle Hill Way. The Post Office team are always helpful and prompt, and Sutton PO continues to be the pick-up point for Therese and John. And dear Sylvia takes care of invoicing and bookkeeping. Thank you! Most of all, I thank you, our readers, especially those willing to point out mistakes. Obervant critics are helpful. At the end of my second year as custodian, I feel I’m finally getting the hang of it. I still have some technical knowledge to absorb and put into practice. But I now know that Word is more than adequate for this job – in the right hands. Elona Hanner has been my main troubleshooter so far this year, and Mick Joyce is sitting by patiently. But I have usually (slowly) found a way round my problems. There are no brand new writers this month, although Elizabeth Kovacs has submitted another interesting article, which I expect to use in the February 2020 edition. This is my second apology for missing the article about our now distant friends, Mark and Kerry Wagstaff. I’ll try again in February. Kerry, in any case, stays well-connected via our Facebook page. Please accept my warmest wishes for a Christmas full of joy and peace, and a New Year full of promise! Until February Your Editor/Custodian

5 In a fitting conclusion to the Gundaroo Film Society’s 2019 program, more than 90 members and guests sat down to a movie-based meal, and followed it up with a food-based film. The food was produced in the Hall kitchen by the dynamic trio of Colin Lee, Jon Lewis and Ian Price and was classic euro-influenced fare. The final night is a fundraiser to help the Hall meet running costs and improve amenities. The evening was hot and still, and the sea breeze arrived just in time as Mostly Martha was screened. This 2001 Film concerns an inflexible and uptight formula-driven German chef who is challenged by circumstance to embrace change. It had a wonderful slow jazzy soundtrack, and a sudden extra scene just as the audience rose from their seats. The audience was taken briefly through the successes of our 2019 film program, and how it informs the basis for our program next year. Three movies could be special highlights: A Boy Called Sailboat – a film in release so recent the distributors couldn’t price it; the incredible They Shall Not Grow Old by Peter Jackson (hopefully with a live musical accompaniment), a movie that revitalised footage of World War I by dubbing and colorising the imagery (and will be filmed just before Anzac Day); and the Bollywood epic Laggan, an examination of British imperialism through a fierce cricket match seen by the local village as their chance to avoid oppressive taxes. Our 2020 program will commence on 22 February. It will be a free public screening at 7pm, and will be preceded by a wine tasting at Gundog Estate Cellar door, with nibbles provided at the Hall. The film is You will be my Son, set in the French wine district of St Emilion, and I’m sure that Geoff from Gundog will choose appropriate wines for sampling or purchase from 6pm. Wayne Kotzur Gundaroo Film Society

In Living Memory Gundaroo in the 1940s & 1950s by Marion Meischke Just published. An easy-to-read authentic history of Gundaroo during two decades of social change, told by those who lived in Gundaroo then. The perfect Christmas or birthday gift for anyone with links to Gundaroo or an interest in social history. With over 500 remastered photos from the period (can be ordered individually) and almost 500 pages of stories to make you laugh and cry, this three-volume set in an attractive slip-cover will resonate with the old, inform the young, and bring to light a fascinating history for those who live here.

Price $150 (including GST) Available from the author at [email protected] or online at www.gundarooinlivingmemory.com.au Also available at The National Library of Australia, Paperchain and Book Face bookshops, and at Gundaroo Grocer and Cork St Cellars.

6

Gundaroo School News

We’re well and truly on the final stretch towards the end highly important that we are all aware of what to do in of year as Concert items and student reports are busily an emergency situation, and how we can best prepare being prepared. It’s been a fantastic year, and ourselves and our property in the event of a fire. impossible to believe that this is the last Gazette article, I am pleased to report that our Fire Drill was conducted but still so much more to do! smoothly, and the children were incredibly responsible Touch Football Gala Day and calm during the drill. Seventeen enthusiastic Gundaroo students from Years While building our 4–6 travelled to Jerrabomberra on 15 November for a awareness of fire Touch Football Gala Day. For many of our students, this safety was the main was their first time playing, and for our Year 4 students, aim of the afternoon, an added challenge was that they were playing in the the real highlight was senior division! Our children played remarkably well and getting to have a go held their own against some much older and much more with – and cooling off experienced teams, and they should be incredibly proud under – the fire hoses. of their efforts. Well done kids! Zooper Doopers finished the afternoon off nicely! A big thank you to all of the parents who came along. The NSW Rural Fire Service website also has a plethora of information on how to ensure you are prepared for the fire season. I encourage you to take a look.

ACU Kids Conference A few weeks ago, an invitation was extended to us to participate in the inaugural Canberra ACU Kids Conference, held at Old Parliament House. The aim of the Kids Conference is to promote the student voice, enable student-led learning and give students the opportunity to share how they engage with technology As I am sure you are aware, we have our School Concert to enhance their learning and bring their ideas to life. and Presentation Night coming up on Thursday 5 Our team of Rose, Lucy, December at 6pm, with a Matinee performance of our Lucy and Alex shared their concert items earlier in the day, beginning at 10am. I work creating a Stik-bot invite all of you to attend; the kids love an audience! Animation to tell the story Our Community Breakfast, one of the highlights of the of the First Fleet’s arrival in year, will also be held from 7:30 to 9am on Friday 13 Australia. They did a December. Where else would you be able to get a remarkable job overcoming cooked breakfast AND barista coffee for just $3? It’s our many challenges and way of saying thank you to the community for the presented their work with a generous support we have received throughout the high level of skill. Well done year. girls, we are very proud! Fire Drill Have a safe and happy Christmas and New Year, and I look forward to more reporting in 2020! A big thank you to the Gundaroo RFS who came along to Nigel Trethowan school for our annual fire drill. With the large number of Principal fires having a devastating impact across the country, it’s 7 NSW Rural c/– Post Office Fire Service Gundaroo NSW 2620 Gundaroo Rural Fire Brigade

How prepared are you? Our final newsletter for 2019 reflects on the damage being wrought by multiple bush fires burning in NSW and Queensland. Tragically lives have been lost, and many homes, livestock and wildlife too, plus everything else in the fires’ destructive paths. This column may have seemed repetitive for the past few months about Get-Ready, Fire Plans, Danger Ratings, Alert Levels, Apps and more. But the current widespread fires and their ferocity lend even more weight to the importance of using this fire information and knowledge to plan and prepare for bush fire. So please …With your family, discuss and review your Bush Fire Survival Plan. Visit www.myfireplan.com.au. Prepare your home and have it ready for bush fire. Trim overhanging branches around your house and allow clearance for fire trucks in the driveway. Mow the grass, but be extra careful not to ignite a fire in these dry conditions. Remove materials that burn, clear debris from gutters, and prepare a hose or hoses long enough to reach around your home. Clearly display your property number on your gate, house or letterbox and your NSW Rural Fire Service blue/white sign for Static Water Supply (SWS), if you have one. Forms are available at Gundaroo Shop, or contact Yass Fire Control Centre 6226 3100. Get familiar with other sources of help and advice: Bush Fire Information Line 1800 679 737 (NSW RFS), Bush Fire Alert Levels www.rfs.nsw.gov.au, Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fdr. Download on your smartphone the ‘Fires Near Me’ app and activate ‘My Watch Zone’. Buy or borrow the book, by Joan Webster OAM, Essential Bushfire Safety Tips. It’s been revised and updated and has many practical concise tips. See www.publish.csiro.au/pid/6969.htm Christmas Eve with Santa and seafood raffles Gundaroo Brigade will help Santa Claus appear around the Village from 1800 hours on Christmas Eve, concluding at the Gundaroo Wine Bar around 1900 hours. Santa will have lollies to share with children along the way. Four seafood trays will be raffled at the pub during the evening. Donations Thank you to Marty O’Connor, Sylvia Gleeson and Alan Cummine for their recent donations to the Brigade, and to everyone who’s donated throughout the year to help support us in maintaining, replacing or repairing our equipment and trucks. Incident Report Brigade Captain Michael Cliff reported three incidents, two strike team deployments, a Zone Exercise, and a Community Education and Drill since the last report – phew! 8 October – Truck fire on Federal Highway 22 October – Carcass burn on Brooks Creek Lane. Callout from failure to notify YFC 5 November – MVA, corner Sutton Rd and Rd 15 November – Car-and-caravan fire on Murrumbateman Rd 28 September–2 October – Deployment of 2 members to Sandy Creek Fire in New England area 22–26 October – Deployment of 1 member to Grafton area in Northern NSW 10 November – Zone Exercise, . Thanks to members who attended 22 November – Community Education and Gundaroo School Evacuation Drill Day. The Gundaroo Rural Fire Brigade would like to thank you all for your fabulous ongoing support and we wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a safe Happy New Year with family and friends. Deidre Robinson – Publicity Officer

Lou’s Bobcat Hire Over 30 years’ experience locally and interstate. Lou Jenal’s Bobcat Hire gets all your earthworks done quickly and cleanly. Sutton SES services the Sutton, Gundaroo and parts of the communities. HQ is at 19 Victoria St, Sutton. Training is on Monday nights from 7.00pm. New volunteers always welcome.

Free quotes available Call Lou on 0412 487 686 Email: [email protected] Tilt Tray Hire Hiab with 7m flat tray Landscaping, Rock Raking Tractor & Slasher hire Driveways & repairs General Earthworks

8 1st Gundaroo Scouts

st This term the Cubs and Scouts are focussing on water The 1 Gundaroo Scout Group held a whole group safety. The Cub section is joining Bungendore for a activity on Tuesday 19 November. We hold these canoeing expedition and the Scouts completed their activities each term. They provide a wonderful water safety badge at the Canberra Pool, in preparation opportunity for all the sections to come together and for their canoeing challenge. celebrate the investiture of our newest youth members. This term we welcomed five new members across the There is no better time to come along and try Scouting. three active sections in Gundaroo. Scouting is open for youth of all ages from 6 through to 25. You can come and try out for a few weeks before The Scout section led the group activity. They set up an committing to join. For more details, please give Group orienteering course around the oval (pictured). Leader Phil Gaden a call on 0413 137 761. Key Dates for Term 4 • Tuesday 10 December – Whole Group Activity – En-of-Year AGM and Party • Monday 3 February 2020 – Scouts resume • Tuesday 4 February 2020 – Cubs and Joeys resume.

Everyone enjoyed marking their cards with the control punches. The activity developed skills in following a compass bearing and measuring distance, which is important during the more complex hikes that the older Ist Gundaroo Scouts take pleasure in wishing everyone sections conduct. Following the orienteering, we held in the Gundaroo community a very happy Christmas and our Investiture Ceremony, formally welcoming our new New Year. members to 1st Gundaroo (pictured). Phil Gaden Group Leader

9 ‘In Living Memory’ … a memorable launch and beyond By Your Resident Feature Writer

Marion Meischke’s three volumes about Gundaroo in the 1940s and 1950s has attracted much attention, praise and, especially, appreciation – appreciation from those who lived The formalities were here then, from their descendants, and from those who value delivered “… from a stage social history and storytelling. furnished as a lounge room As reported briefly on the front page of the November edition of that period, adding a of The Gundaroo Gazette, Marion’s admirable trilogy, In Living special touch to the Memory: Gundaroo in the 1940s and 1950s, was launched ambience.” twice in Gundaroo Soldiers’ Memorial Hall on one mid- October weekend. To quote: “Saturday was very special. It was ‘reserved’ for the Gundaroo families of the period who had given Marion their stories and photographs that are the beating heart of the three volumes – The Valley, Cork Street, and The Village. “So many had managed to come – regardless of their age, health or mobility – that the Hall seemed as full as it could comfortably be.”

“They filled the

Hall with their smiles and laughter, their “Sunday was an open invitation to Gundaroo to celebrate the recognitions and books and their stories and do some remembering of their their memories…” own. A smaller crowd, but enthusiastic nonetheless. “ …as they shared And both days saw Marion tirelessly signing books.” a sumptuous **************** afternoon tea…” The books were officially launched – on both days – by author Richard Begbie. On Saturday, the ‘support acts’, MC’d by Roger Meischke, were the book designer, Peter Campbell; Terry Kershaw, who grew up in Gundaroo and who, with his wife Kate, contributed generously to the content; and Zenia and Marina, daughters of the sadly departed Ingrid Osborne, “…as they former owner of ‘Bowylie’. enjoyed the displays of Peter Campbell had previously designed Richard Begbie’s framed photos two recent books, and accepted Richard’s invitation to and posters, design his sister Marion’s book. and of period Peter praised Marion’s thorough and uncompromising clothes, approach to her research, and rates the production of In appliances and Living Memory as “up there with the biggest” projects artefacts …” Peter Campbell Design has ever undertaken. He described Marion’s years of “painstaking research and dedicated preparation; interviewing, accumulating rich stories, seeking hidden relationships, transcribing innumerable oral histories, chasing obscure historical photographs and documents; following puzzling threads and connections to put the pieces of the puzzle together in their social context; lovingly nurturing the stories and the people “ …all the from whom they came to weave a moving narrative filled while talking, with warmth, honesty and humour.” talking, “As a designer and publisher,” Peter said, “I can assure you talking.” that publications of this quality are few and far between, particularly in the realm of social history.” Terry Kershaw (pictured) recalled strong memories of his ‘free range’ childhood in Gundaroo, interrupted by his time away at school and university, when he would sometimes dismiss Gundaroo as “a one-horse town where the horse died” … only to discover later that his love for Gundaroo had never left him.

10 Now Terry and Kate return not In reply, Marion simply spoke from just for special occasions, but the heart, cradling her beautiful often “for no special reason”. floral bouquet – acknowledging Terry described Marion’s book the effort and support of all her as “a fabulous addition to the team, and the encouragement she history of Gundaroo and to received from friends and relatives recording the memories. It was throughout. fun being part of the process.” But she reserved her biggest Zenia and Marina took turns to thanks for all those she had read passages from Volume 1, interviewed over several years – ‘The Valley’. Their mother, for their unique personal stories, Ingrid Osborne, had grown up their photos and other material, at ‘Bowylie’ and then became their humour, patience and its owner for many years, and enthusiasm for the project – and was known and loved by many in and around the village. Sadly, for her husband Roger, who Ingrid died in 2016. The daughters read from Ingrid’s happy “cheered me on the whole way”. stories about growing up with her own sister at ‘Bowylie’. Then began ‘the signing’, which went on for what seemed like Although Richard Begbie left The Gundaroo Gazette with hours. It had been a very well-organised and most memorable his prepared speaking notes, he spoke freely, referring to occasion – the best book launch in this writer’s ‘living memory’. them only occasionally. Nevertheless, with Richard’s Since the launch … permission, a few quotes from these notes will convey his Marion has given The Gundaroo Gazette an update on important messages. some of her activities leading up to and since the launch Having spoken of the weekend. disappointments many feel at not having asked certain Having given two pre-launch local radio interviews, Marion has made it a priority to follow up a number of questions of our relatives her interviewees that couldn’t make the launch because and friends “now long gone”, Richard noted how local of poor health or distance or some other incapacity, sometimes personally delivering a copy of the three- histories can help to fill some volume set. Their responses have been positive, of these gaps. But they are often of variable quality, and appreciating Marion’s work and persistence to record never yet had he “seen their stories. anything on this scale, and Here are just a few of the common responses. few with the production “I scanned it and am going back to read it properly.” qualities of these three “I couldn’t put it down.” volumes”. “Great pictures.” That quality resulted from the “I’m buying another one for my family.” expert team that Marion had “It will make a great Christmas present.” gathered around her. “The indexes are terrific, and helped me look up my family Peter and Jan Campbell lived and the people they used to talk about.” through the design and A medical friend of Anne Bicknell had bought a set to give production of every page. Howard Moffat applied his stellar Anne for Christmas. When Anne died so suddenly, her family photographic skills to bring many old images to life – which in still appreciated receiving the gift. Richard’s mind are “the crowning glory of these volumes”. The book had a third launch, this time at Paperchain Jo Scanlon was the editor, Denise Sutherland the indexer, and Bookstore in Manuka, launched by Karla Begbie. Anneke Myers the proofreader. And Brigid Whitbread worked Books are sold via the website tirelessly at Library to assist with historical (https://gundarooinlivingmemory.com.au); direct from the resources. author; and from the following outlets – National Library of Richard read many examples from the book – of characters Australia bookshop, Paperchain, Book Face Gungahlin, the and events – to illustrate his point that the wealth of what Yass Tourist Office, and the Gundaroo Grocer, which is has been recorded lies in the stories. selling steadily. National Library is already on its second “It is the stories, told and told again, that bind a community order. Other bookshops are possible. together. Whether shared in the paddock, outside the store, Copies have been deposited with the National Library and around the fire, or in the mailman’s car, these are the stuff the NSW State Library. ACT Heritage Library has purchased of local history. So many stories, relationships, intrigues and a copy. Other libraries have expressed interest and are mysteries.” awaiting permission to buy it for their collections. In offically launching the three-volume set, Richard stressed Sheila Affleck (née Hallam), now 90 years old, can have the that above all, the main reason for the successful publication last word. (She is referred to in Volume 2 on pages 49 to 51.) of the book is that “Marion spared no effort in bringing this In a joint phone call with her son John, Sheila told Marion: to a conclusion. She, and Roger too, have spared no expense “My doctor told me I have to walk more, daily if I can. After I in bequeathing to Gundaroo a treasure trove of story and got the book, I read it straight through until I finished it. I image which captures the village in its rurally productive didn’t go walking for a week!” heyday. Beyond that lies a comprehensive social history with ramifications far beyond this district.” *****************************

11

CORK ST. CELLAR DOOR OPEN THURSDAY & FRIDAY 11AM–4PM SATURDAY & SUNDAY 11AM–5PM Cellar Door Events December 13th – Locals Christmas Party! 5pm till 8pm Gundog is pleased to announce a free event for Gundaroo Locals! A special Christmas event at our Cellar Door, sharing our wine and cheese platters to say THANK YOU for supporting us during 2019. RSVP via email/phone by December 1st Tasting at The Colonial Inn – December 5th, 5–7pm Sunday Sounds – MARCH 1st 2020 NEW RELEASE Gundog Estate Gin – We have a special Christmas limited release. In what is likely a world first, we’ve infused our gin with Hunter Valley Semillon. In this first batch, we’ve used the super-premium 2019 ‘The Chase’ Semillon, and then employed a supporting range of botanicals, such as green apple peel, lemon myrtle, lime cloves, almonds, honeycomb and, of course, juniper and coriander seeds. The result is a modern dry gin with complex citrus-led aromas, supported by a smooth and vibrant palate. Remember our special pricing for Gundaroo residents and our Loyalty Card! Phone 02 6236 8276 or email [email protected]. www.gundogestate.com.au ‘WHERE GOOD FRIENDS MEET’ Coming events

CHRISTMAS and BEYOND Check Facebook for updates and more details DECEMBER Fri 6th – Gundog Estate Wine Tasting 5-7pm Sat 7th – Southern Rough Riders host Karaoke/Disco Tues 24th – Christmas Eve Party, Kids entertainment, music, RFS Seafood Raffle Tues 31st – New Year’s Eve. Live music, two artists, Great Northern schooners $5, games, prizes, giveaways JANUARY To be advised via Facebook and on-site promotion. Pool Comp on Thursdays Sport/Community Raffle on Fridays (Meat trays by Gunning Butcher)

12 Hearing, Seeing, Feeling An occasional column about arts and culture By a Staff Writer ‘Bring Him Home’

‘Concert at the Courthouse’ in St Marks Anglican Gundog Estate sponsored the wine gift to the Church directs all profits towards maintenance of the Men’s Choir. Concert-goers and players were later building – ‘the old courthouse’. treated in the Church grounds to a small feast of The last concert for 2019, organised on the afternoon of wine and finger food, organised by Jan Brown, Saturday 23 November by Gundaroo Arts and Culture, Bronwyn and David Barnard and Sue and Phil was sold out, and it lived up to its substantial promise. Evans, supported by others from the Friday yoga group. The Canberra Men’s Choir ‘Emergence’ – an exhibition Ensemble’s concert theme, Nino Bellantonio’s exhibition of collages and works ‘Bring Him Home’, on paper, at Cork Street Café and Gallery, was celebrated opened by Professor Jane Goodall from Western bringing us home University on 20 November and will remain as ‘the season’ open until Sunday 22 December. nears, with a The theme ‘Emergence’ – making the invisible moving and funny visible – is a visual exploration of the Japanese repertpoire of tanka poem (short poem) in which figures of speech traditional songs and selected Christmas season songs. and literary devices, Their songs, mostly well-known and popular, covered such as simile, several genres – negro spiritual, classical voice with metaphor and piano, American traditional, musicals, rock, big time personification, are swing, and Australian traditional. relied on to bring forth the image and Following their seven much-applauded songs, inner feelings. directed by Leanne McKean and accompanied on piano by Adam Davidson, the choir was joined by the In ‘Emergence’, Kooranga Ensemble – a small chamber group of Nino has also classical players of instrumental strings and combined ethical woodwind – and then by Gundaroo Community appeal (ethos) and Singers (below), led by Maartje Sevenster emotional appeal (pathos) to elicit the feelings of the audience. Professor Goodall has said of a previous exhibition in Braidwood that Nino applies his architectural background and “respect for fine crafting of pattern and design” in his collage technique. Gallery proprietor, Cassie Simakoff-Ellims, told The Gundaroo Gazette there’d been a large turn-out to the official opening (using a case of Prosecco as a ‘measure’), with visitors from Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra, as well as Gundaroo. The exhibition has been well patronised and busy. The combined choirs and ensemble players Many of the exhibits have been sold, with only a dedicated the ‘Bring him home’ song (from the few left – some large (about A3), some small musical ‘Les Miserables’), to Anne Bicknell, who had (about A5). died suddenly two weeks before the concert. A talented viola player, Anne was a founding member Cassie hopes to be able to provide The Gundaroo of the Kooranga Ensemble, a leader in the Gazette with a forward program of exhibitions Gundaroo arts community and a great friend to for 2020. many. ***************************

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PHYSIOTHERAPY – GUNDAROO Musculoskeletal – Sport – Spinal – Post Surgery – General Physiotherapy MARION LANGWORTHY – PHYSIOTHERAPIST B.App.Sc (Phys), M.PT Please phone for an appointment on 0498 146 977 The Caledonia Store, 32 Cork St, Gundaroo PILATES-INSPIRED STRENGTH – FLEXIBILITY – BALANCE Family Day Care MATWORK EXERCISE CLASSES in Gundaroo TUESDAYS 6.30–7.30pm and THURSDAYS 8.30–9.30am ($20 per casual class, discount for term payments) Inga Griffin is taking enrolments All classes held in The Caledonia Store, 32 Cork St, Gundaroo for 2020. Phone Marion for more details – 0498 146 977 We are also seeking an additional Family Day Care Educator in Gundaroo

Contact us on 6236 8305 or at [email protected] and Post Office for further information. SHOP OPENING HOURS TAKEAWAY HOURS Monday to Friday 8am to 7pm Monday to Friday 9.30am to 7pm Caring for our Country Kids Saturday 9.30am to 4pm Saturday 9.30am to 2.30pm

Sunday 10am to 2pm Sunday 10am to 2pm TAKEAWAY SPECIALS Look out for our weekly home-cooked meal specials, starting on Monday nights from 5pm. To find out what’s on, check our Gundaroo Grocer Facebook page, give us a ring, or ask when you visit the shop. Hot organic BBQ chickens are available on Friday nights. Pre-ordering is advisable to avoid disappointment. Phone: 6236 8141 Fax: 6236 8681 [email protected]

14 Perpetuum An occasional column about things environmental By Maartje Sevenster

Silly season, silly question? putting it right in front of a sunny window? Can you The first time I heard about an environmental life buy a smaller one, which has lower embedded cycle assessment (LCA) of a Christmas tree, I thought: environmental impacts to start with? surely not! Having a Christmas tree in the home in When it (finally) comes to discarding your artificial December is only a very small part of what is – let’s tree, there is not much choice. Given that it is made face it – typically a period of high expenditure and of PVC combined with other plastics, recycling is not associated environmental impacts. Food, trips to an option. Pinterest has whole pages dedicated to family, presents ... probably all worth much more ‘repurposing’ your old tree, but ultimately this just attention than the tree itself, if you’re worried about postpones the problem. environmental effects. For a natural tree, However, the comparison between an artificial tree landfill with proper and a natural one is a bit of an LCA nerd’s delight. gas capture used for One involves the chemical industry, plastics, power generation intercontinental transport, and tricky end-of-life gives the lowest treatment while being reusable. The other is grown carbon footprint in a forestry system, takes quite some time to grow result, but in this to size, all the while storing carbon, and then is respect we are not so discarded after one season – some three weeks, fortunate in typically. Gundaroo. Therefore, This is probably why this debate has been going for you’d best choose to at least a decade. As usual, the answer to the chip it and add it to question of which of the two is ‘better’ is not so easy your compost. The to find, because it all depends ... worst option is what In general, studies show that you’d have to use an we used to do in the Netherlands: a big artificial tree for at least five years for the th environmental impacts to be the same as for the community Christmas tree bonfire on the 6 of natural tree. But of course, that depends on exactly January. what artificial tree you get, as well as on whether the Merry Christmas! natural tree has been grown in a responsible way and Maartje Sevenster how you deal with it after use. December 2019 1 Even WWF chipped in with a blog in December last year, clearly favouring the natural tree and quoting a break-even point for the artificial tree only when used for 20 years. I have to point out that WWF’s view was [A special message from Santa, via your Editor] based on a slightly older study, although most likely the comparison involved a more elaborate artificial tree.

Instead of trying to work out whether one is better than the other, it might be more useful to consider how we can reduce environmental impact in either case. Transport in a personal car is a big factor because it is inefficient compared to e.g. intercontinental shipping. In Gundaroo, we’re very fortunate to have a Christmas tree farm right on our doorstep, so that’s one factor addressed! If you have to travel further to buy your natural tree, consider joining forces with the neighbours to get two trees in one trip. If you’re considering getting an artificial tree, think about how you will make sure you will use it for at least, say, 10 years. Where and how are you going to store it? How should it be best maintained, e.g. by not

1 https://www.wwf.org.au/news/blogs/whats-the-best-christmas-tree- you-can-buy#gs.hzzme8 15 16 In our gardens by Lisa Walmsley

Scale insect pests Honeydew attracts other insects such as ants, which is The pest insect that I’ve noticed in prolific numbers another way to identify scale on the plant. this year on many trees is scale. The hot dry Honeydew may also conditions we’ve been experiencing are ideal for the encourage a fungus increased numbers on our plants. called sooty mould, Scale are a shell like waxy insect that feeds off the sap which will give the of your plants. This season, I’ve noticed scale on fruit plant a black ‘sooty’, trees, Cercis ‘Forest Pansy’, a few different varieties of appearance. On Silver birch, and some ornamental shrubs and native scale-infested trees trees and shrubs. and shrubs, you will Scale insects can be difficult to see and look more like notice a black a growth than a bug. They look like a small brown residue all over the bump and they don’t move. They closely resemble a ground underneath scab. They are rounded, oval or flat, and can range in them. size from barely visible to large bumps (pictured). Scale can be treated in a number of ways. Maintaining Their colour can range the good health of your garden can help with this. from brown and tan to Lady beetles can attack and significantly reduce scale

orange or even white. insect populations. They do like to cluster When scale insect populations are not out of control together, so once the and can be reached, it’s worth picking them off by population gets large, hand. If a branch is heavily infested, it may be worth they are easy to see. cutting the branch off and discarding away from the There are many stages in garden. the scale insect life Sometimes infestations are too great and chemicals cycle, and the whole are required. Rather than spraying, I like to use a cycle takes about 7 to 10 tablet, inserted into the ground. White oil (pest oil) is weeks. The eggs take a also effective as a control measure. few weeks to hatch in I find that if you are vigilant and keep an eye on your nymphs (these can plants, you can wipe scale off your plants as they crawl) and then 6 to 9 appear. Then you can avoid infestations and weeks for the crawlers to mature into adults. The chemicals. female crawlers can move around on the plant or move to surrounding plants. Once an adult, they can Lisa Walmsley no longer move. December 2019

Scale insect eggs and nymphs are tiny, which is why it’s so simple for scale populations to get out of hand before you notice them. Male crawlers and adults are tiny gnat-like insects that fly around looking for females to mate with. Scale can go through one or two generations each year. Scale will seriously weaken and sometimes kill your plants if the infestation becomes too great. It can result in stunted or deformed leaf growth, yellowing of the leaves, brown pock-marks and even leaf drop. Scale generally infest branches, stems and leaf joints and sometimes along the veins of leaves but you can find them anywhere on the plant. Plants covered in scale may have a sticky appearance on the leaves. This can be a good way to identify scale if you’re not sure what’s wrong. As scale feed, they excrete a sticky residue, which is a common sign of infestation. This sticky residue is known as honeydew and is a mixture of undigested sugar and water passed through the insects digestive system and then deposited onto the leaves and stems of the plant. 17

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18 Wildcare by Merran Laver

Wrapping up 2018–19 The number of calls about bats shows an increase this year: 82 in total. Forty microbat calls were received Recent statistics for Wildcare show that over the past for various reasons, such as being found inside houses year we responded to more than 4,700 calls about or places like umbrellas, woodpiles, letterboxes. There wildlife needing help. More than 100 of these calls were 42 calls relating to flying foxes, many of which were received for non-native animals, including deer, were sadly found caught in barbed wire fences or in dogs/cats and domestic livestock (eg sheep). bird netting and suffering severe injury. Almost half of all calls (2,273) related to macropods: Of the wombats called in over the year (232 in eastern grey kangaroos (96%) and wallabies (4%). total), many were due to the skin disease, mange Road collisions were the primary reason for more (37%), and to car collisions (20%) or being orphaned than half of macropod calls (56%). Macropod calls (10%). Some (10%) were called in when found close were also for orphaned or abandoned joeys (13%, to houses on properties, in yards or places such as often related to road deaths of mother), those caught veggie gardens. in fencing (8%), and dog and other attacks (3%); e.g. So, what is the outcome for all of these calls about gunshot wounds. wildlife in strife? Our statistics for all wildlife called in Around 1,000 calls about birds came in, making this during 2018–19 show that: 1145 were taken into care; the second most-reported animal type needing unfortunately 299 died and 1016 were euthanased; assistance. While this covered 96 different species, 220 were released or relocated, and 262 were left the most alone or observed in the wild. common birds Wildcare is run by volunteers and has charity status. If reported were you would like to make a donation (tax deductible), magpies then check out the website: www.wildcare.com.au (pictured), crimson rosellas Contact Wildcare on 6299 1966 (put it in your mobile). and galahs. A large majority Merran Laver (about 80%) of for Wildcare bird calls involved rescue of the bird, most taken in for Going away? assessment, treatment and/or care. Unfortunately, many (46%) died via euthanasia or while in care. But Need your pets looked after? on a happier note, a lot (28%) could be released; 34 ✓ Experienced pet sitters were reunited with parents; 23 were transferred to ✓ In business since 2016 another animal group or fauna park, and 9 escaped ✓ Reasonable rates birds were returned to their owners. ✓ Referees available Reptiles also made up a large bulk of calls (777) to Need a babysitter? Wildcare, including lizards, eastern long-necked Going out for the night/day, or just need a break for a few turtles, and snakes. A few frogs and monitors were hours and want your kids looked after? also called in. Attacks, mostly by dogs, were a major cause of injury for lizards (42% of lizard calls). Most ✓ Experienced babysitters turtles called in were found injured on roads (70% of ✓ Reasonable rates turtle calls). ✓ Available most evenings and weekends ✓ Referees available Snake calls (550) are quite different to those for other reptiles, as people tend to report sightings in their Also available for: gardens or on their properties. Brown snakes were House sitting, odd jobs, gardening and cleaning. the most common type reported (51%), as well as tiger (19%) and red bellied black snakes (8%), Help us to help others although many (22%) were unidentified. A large We are Nikita and Grace. We’re currently saving to take proportion (54%) of all snake calls were classified as part in World Challenge, where we travel to Vietnam and ‘nuisance/problem’; of these, 104 had disappeared Cambodia and give back to a local community, working on upon assessment and 71 were relocated. a worthwhile project with them. Small mammal calls most commonly included possums (brushtails 55%; ringtails 5%), echidnas (34%) Contact us: and sugar gliders (4%) – a total of 247 calls. A range of Grace: 0490 782 594 reasons were recorded, including: unsuitable Nikita: 0490 391 520 environment (21%); injured on road (14%); orphaned [email protected] (11% ); and trapped or entangled (11%). A few calls were received about koalas, platypus and native mice. 19 Your local electrician Andrew Lemon

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20 Gundaroo Sport

“We’ve been lucky with a few games, in that the Our cricketers scoring well opposition has only been able to put out 9 or 10 players against us, which naturally opens up a few After a full round of matches in the Yass District more gaps in the field. It’s been pleasing to watch Cricket Association A Grade competition, the different guys step up and get us over the line each Gundaroo Goats are sitting comfortably inside the top week, but we must not sit back and think it’s going to four teams. keep happening as we get closer to finals and as the Losses in the first and last matches of the round other teams get their best sides out on the park book-ended a four-match run where the Goats took against us.” advantage of fast outfields and a full roster of players The Goats play their last home game for the calendar to win four games on the bounce, cementing them in year on Saturday 7 December against the Yass Cobras, the top two going into the Christmas break. seeking to avenge our round one loss. All are most The Goats have had a core group of about six players welcome to wander down to Gundaroo Park to look with a rotating cast of other players filling out the and support the home side. remaining spots each week. Junior cricket The highlight so far this The Junior Goats are three weeks into their season season has been the and are always open for new participants. Sessions batting of Dave Noble, are held between 9am and 10.30am at the school putting together back- and are focused on fun, fitness, and learning the skills to-back half-centuries of cricket. to lead the team to wins against Dalton The group is split into Junior Blasters and Master (away) and (at Blasters, with the older kids running for a little bit home). Jamie Duncan longer and playing a game against each other at the and Dave Drew have (Photo: The Betoota Advocate) end of the session. There are a couple more sessions been taking wickets most weeks, and the fielding and this side of Christmas before we take off the month of catching from everyone has been a standard above January and come back for a five-week block in what has been produced in previous seasons. February. If you have kids interested in playing, contact Chris Gaggin at Captain Mark Graeme has been happy with the [email protected] performances to date, but warned that going into the back half of the year, complacency can undo the success. Sean Egan

LATE MAIL – 6 DECEMBER A few random photos from the Gundaroo School end-of-year Concert and Presentation

21

GoodWords Consulting Edit | Write | Rewrite | Proofread Affordable, accessible, local Alan Cummine 0407 488 927 [email protected] www.goodwordsconsulting.com.au * * * * * * 22 Eateries in Gundaroo Tallagandra Hill Winery ― Wine Bar 1692 Murrumbateman Road Grazing (The Royal Hotel) 0434 041 915 Cnr Cork and Harp Streets 6236 8777 www.grazing.com.au Specially curated cheese and charcuterie platters matched to our single vineyard premium wines. Award-winning restaurant in a 19th-century pub steeped in history. Sophisticated country dining The menu offers a unique matched food-and-wine at its finest. experience for our visitors to enjoy either for a hearty lunch or just for ‘grazing’. Lunch: Friday to Sunday and most public holidays Dinner: Thursday to Saturday Saturday 12.00pm to 4.00pm Sunday 11.00pm to 4.00pm Cork Street Gallery Café 24 Cork Street 6236 8217 (Walk down the driveway to the stables behind the Old Police Station, now a private residence.) Church worship in Gundaroo Innovative gourmet pizzas, with salads and home- Catholic made cakes, served in the stables or the paved St Joseph’s Church garden. BYO. Casual and popular. Phone orders (Cnr Harp and Morning Streets) welcome. Takeaway available. Mass: 9.00am every third Sunday Thursday to Sunday, from 9.00am Communion Services: 9.00am every other Sunday For breakfast, lunch and dinner Contact: Narelle Buckley – 0422 808 964 Gundaroo Colonial Inn and Rolling Hills Kitchen Anglican 23 Cork Street St Marks Church 6236 8155 (Cork Street) www.gundaroocolonialinn.com.au All services start at 4.00pm The ‘village pub’. Great atmosphere. Very popular Communion Service (first Sunday) family restaurant, with indoor and outdoor dining. Family Service (third Sunday) Live music often. Takeaway available. Contact: Royce Thompson — 0416 265 600 Bar Uniting Tuesday to Sunday From 3.00pm weekdays Gundaroo Community Church (Cnr Lot and Cork Streets) From 12 noon weekends Restaurant Services on the first three Sundays of the month, starting Dinner: Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday 5.30–8.30pm at 9.00am and finishing with morning tea. Friday, Saturday 5.30–9.00pm Gundaroo Community Church (first Sunday) Lunch: Friday to Sunday from 12.00–3.00pm Family service, led by local families. All ages worship, with activities for kids. Bookings preferred, via Open Service (second Sunday) www.bellasfeast.com.au/rolling-hills-gundaroo- Shared worship with Canberra district home churches, pub/book-restaurant with activities for kids and youth. or [email protected] Uniting Church Service (third Sunday) or 0401 579 650 Led by Gunning Uniting Church worship team, with Gundaroo Grocer, Cork St Cellars & Takeaway activities for kids. 54 Cork Street Contact: Marion Meischke — 6236 8192 6236 8141 [email protected] Ecumenical Services Quality meals. Wide menu. Eat-in or takeaway. The three churches combine to arrange an ecumenical Takeaway hours: Refer to advertisement on page 14. service in each month with a fifth Sunday, rotating the venue. Gundog Estate Cork Street Cellar Door Cnr Cork and Harp Streets (enter from Harp Street) 6236 8276 www.gundogestate.com.au [email protected] Gourmet meat and cheese platters. Tea and coffee. Wine by the bottle or glass, served only with food. Facebook pages (Local groups) Wine tastings. Extensive range. Gundaroo Community Connect Thursday & Friday: 11am–4pm. Food until 3pm Gundaroo Buy, Swap and Sell Saturday & Sunday: 11am–5pm. Food until 4pm 23 The Gundaroo Gazette Gundaroo Services and Contacts

Editor/Custodian: Alan Cummine LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCIES

Team: Elona Hanner. Mick Joyce. Extra help welcome. Fire/Police/Ambulance: Dial 000 e/m: [email protected] Service Contact mob: 0407 488 927

Contact the Editor with enquiries and to contribute a notice or Defibrillator (AED) See this page for the list of an article, or to place an advertisement. core responders. Publication: Every month except January. Deadline for Police content is 25th of the month before. Queanbeyan 6298 0599 Text/photos: Please supply text in an MS Word document Yass 6226 9399 attached to an email. Send photos in separate files, not Gunning 4845 1244 embedded in a document. Collector 4848 0271 Advertising rates: NSW Ambulance 131 233 Small — $20 58mm wide x 87mm tall (non-urgent) Medium — $30 121mm wide x 87mm tall Fire Brigades: and 58mm wide x 177mm tall Gundaroo 0428 494 403 (Mike Cliff) Back Creek 0429 443 260 (Ben Haseler) Large — $40 185mm wide x 87mm tall Sutton 0418 303 232 (John Cooper) Extra large — $45 121mm wide x 177mm tall Fire Control (Yass) 6226 3100 Advertisements: Artwork may be sent in Word, pdf, jpeg or State Emergency Service png, matching the dimensions above and saved in high (SES) 132 500 resolution. And preferably not containing multiple textboxes! (Sutton) 0417 502 396 (Duty phone) Please specify the time period for the advertisement to be run. Other emergency services: The billing cycle is three-monthly, in arrears. Gunning District Nurse 4845 1166 Veterinary Surgeon 6236 8222 (Joseph Nowak) Injured wildlife 6299 1966 (24 hours) Gundaroo Community Association Defibrillator Justice of the Peace 0418 449 984 (Mick Nicholls) 0425 650 283 (Rachel McBeath)

Gundaroo is fortunate to have a portable automated external defibrillator (AED), centrally located and ready for use in a Council Office 6226 1477 cardiac emergency around the village. Gundaroo Councillor 0429 930 628 (Cecil Burgess) Gundaroo Community 0421 520 278 It is kept in a locked cabinet fixed to the outside front wall Association (Moraig McKenna) of the Gundaroo PO and shop, together with a list of ‘core Soldiers Memorial Hall [email protected] responders’ (shown below). Gundaroo Park Trust 0411 400 897 (Ron Miller) Interested in being a responder? Contact Gina Collins on 6236 8435 or [email protected]. Gundaroo Common Trust 6236 8129 (Helen Willett)

Police Paddock 0418 496 908 (Sue Burns) Name Address Telephone/s Village Monuments 6236 8169 (Dallas Leach) Lisa Bell 4 Lot St 6236 8950 (h) 0412 102 714 Gundaroo Public School 6236 8115

Gundaroo Outside School 6236 8105 Scott Shearer 4 Lot St 6236 8950 (h) Hours (GOSH) 0400 291 827 Ist Gundaroo Scout Group 0413 137 761 (Phil Gaden) (Joeys to Rovers) Cathy 44 Morning St 6236 8377 (h) Gundaroo Playgroup 0405 776 518 (Katherine Barry) Stephenson 0414 648 763 (Little Explorers) Gundaroo & District 0418 496 908 (Sue Burns) Emily Wallis Morning St 6236 8948 (h) Historical Society 0404 215 531 Gundaroo Arts and Culture [email protected]

Gundaroo Community 6236 8104 (Maartje Sevenster) Cecilia Davey 0417 203 023 Singers ‘Gundaroo Loves Books’ 0406 377 025 (Kylie Bourne) Darren Cork St 6236 8481 (h) Book Club Schoevers 0402 494 604 Gundaroo Men’s Shed [email protected] (Ric Andrews) Gina Collins 35 Cork St 6236 8435 (h) Gundaroo churches See page 23 for church services (For admin 0412 256 490 and contacts. matters) Civil Marriage Celebrant 0401 267 851 (Lorraine Bird) [email protected]

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