Your locally owned 5000 copies circulating in Toodyay, West Toodyay, Goomalling, Postage Bolgart, Calingiri, Morangup, Northam, Coondle, Hoddys Well, community newspaper March 2019 Paid Wattening, Dewars Pool, Culham, Bejoording, Nunile, Julimar, Bakers Est. 1902 Hill, Clackline, Wooroloo, Wundowie, Gidgegannup and local districts. Edition 377 Australia Toodyay to get five passing lanes

Work underway on widening part of a 5km stretch of Toodyay Road between Racecourse Road and Clackline-Toodyay Road, with plans for five new passing lanes further along. Michael Sinclair-Jones Fernie Road, and 27km of road realignment, Racecourse Road and the Clackline-Toodyay Main Roads WA said Toodyay Road was vegetation clearing and widening. Road. a “key connection between Perth, Toodyay FIVE new passing lanes near Toodyay will and surrounding communities” and carried be added to some of the most dangerous Toodyay Road will be realigned and a new Current roadworks with intermittent lane structure built where it crosses Jimperding closures will continue until next month. agricultural, extractive industries (gravel, stretches of Toodyay Road, with major road- sand and clay), waste and tourism traffic. widening already underway between Harper Brook. The spokesperson said the timing of Brook and Coorinja Winery. A Main Roads WA spokesperson said remaining works would depend on the State It quoted a 2015 WA Government review Three new westbound and two eastbound Federal Government funding had been Budget, which is due in May. which found that Toodyay Road had the overtaking and climbing lanes for heavy secured for a one-kilometre section which WA Treasurer Ben Wyatt recently forecast “highest crash density” in the Wheatbelt. trucks are planned between Morangup Road is currently being widened about 3km from a Budget surprise surplus of $1.02 billion, Main Roads WA was currently buying land, and Toodyay-Clackline Road. Toodyay. although much of that is expected to be removing fences and arranging for utilities to Plans also include seven upgraded Further land clearing and earthworks spent on the State Government’s Metronet be shifted to make way for the road upgrade. intersections between Racecourse Road and are underway on a 5km stretch between rail expansion project in Perth. More Page 5 with plan. Editorial Page 4.

Toodyay Farmers Market Black cockatoos landfill clash Sunday March 17 CONFLICTING decisions by two State by lush rural farmlands, according to a State “will be conserved in perpetuity”, including this month Government agencies have given local Government report. 188 new artificial nesting hollows for black residents new hope in their long-running The licence was granted on the premise cockatoos. classifieds 28 battle to stop thousands of tonnes of Perth that the Clackline Nature Reserve was 2.3km The purchase increased the size of the emergency services 7,8 household rubbish being dumped 13km from the Chitty Road site, which was the Clackline Nature Reserve by a third and environment 20-21 south of Toodyay in Hoddys Well. case when the State Government overruled extended it to within 700m of the landfill site. The WA Department of Water and objections in August 2015 to grant works Five Toodyay landfill objectors are now health 30 Environmental Regulation (DWER) last approval to build the dump. using this as one of several grounds of letters 4 month granted Bayswater landfill operator However, Main Roads WA announced in appeal to WA Environment Minister Stephen Opal Vale a licence to dump more than 400 January this year that it needed to clear 53ha Dawson via the State Office of the Appeals public notices 28 tonnes of “putrescible” waste in Hoddys Well of trees and other vegetation from either side Convenor. puzzles 29 from 7am to 6pm, every day, seven days a of Toodyay Road for major road widening The Shire of Toodyay is also understood sport 31 week except on public holidays. and new passing lanes. to have considered lodging an appeal but The site is within five kilometres of 70 rural To offset the loss, it bought 196ha of did not respond to a Herald request for trades & services 22-27 homes, with two “likely to have direct line of “prime wandoo woodland adjacent to the confirmation or details. when & where 28 sight” to the landfill site which is surrounded Clackline Nature Reserve” which it said Continued Page 5. Page 2 THE TOODYAY HERALD March 2019 Please note our email addresses Advertising: [email protected] The Toodyay Herald is a free monthly newspaper published and owned by a not-for- Articles and stories: [email protected] profit incorporated association - The Toodyay Herald Inc. Contributions via email or on flash drive are preferred. There is no charge for articles that appear in the paper. Deadlines for the next edition are listed below with the paper on the streets in the first week of each month except in January when there is no edition. Ol’ Blind Joe All advertising should be emailed to [email protected]. Editorial contributions and photographs should be emailed to [email protected]. Love is life Photographs for publication should be at least 500kb in file size to ensure quality reproduction in the newspaper. Stirling Hamilton

SUBSCRIPTIONS I FIRED up my trusty old Triumph Subscriptions are $33 (postage and packaging) per year (11 issues). Please send a cheque Thunderbird time-twisting triple, rode to PO Box 100, Toodyay 6566. back to the early 1900s and picked up my old friend Leo Tolstoy. MEMBERSHIP Leo was a 19th Century Russian writer, Membership of The Toodyay Herald is available at $15 ($12 concession) per financial philosopher and social activist, and a year, with members entitled to free advertising worth $15 annually. Please send your major influence in the development of name, phone number and residential, postal and email address with your membership non-violent resistance movements such fee to PO Box 100, Toodyay 6566 or leave it at 92 Stirling Terrace, Toodyay. as those of Indian independence leader Mahatma Gandhi and US civil rights COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT ADVERTISING activist Martin Luther King Jr, and in President: Peter Ruthven Sandra Harms: 9572 9061 or the political strategies of South African Vice-president: Andrew McCann [email protected] freedom fighter Nelson Mandela. Secretary: Heather Appleby Heather Appleby 0419 906 083 Considered one of the world’s greatest Treasurer: Beth Ruthven ACCOUNTS novelists, Tolstoy is especially famous for Members: writing the 19th Century literary classics Sandra Harms, Stirling Hamilton, Beth Ruthven 0429 896 860 War and Peace and Anna Karenina. Allan Gregory, Peter Harms, [email protected] Although born into nobility, Tolstoy Ieva Tomsons NEWS & GENERAL INQUIRIES spent much of his life as a champion of PRODUCTION Russia’s peasant class, notably in the field Russian novelist Leo Tolstoy. Editor: Michael Sinclair-Jones 9574 2106 - 0419 906 083 of education. Admin/Advertising: Heather Appleby [email protected] I brought him back to my place, opened died because of their leader Joseph Stalin’s Design/Layout: Sandra Harms my magic picture book of history and ineptitude and his initial trust in German Editorial/Layout: Ieva Tomsons toodyayherald.com.au. showed him the results of World War 1. dictator Adolf Hitler. Then came the Cold War which ended DISTRIBUTION “War is not a courtesy but the most horrible thing in life; and we ought to when the Soviet Union was brought to its The Toodyay Herald has a distribution of 5000 copies, with copies delivered to letter understand that and not play at war,” he knees and successive US presidents made boxes in Toodyay, and Morangup. Copies are also available at roadhouses and businesses said. it their mission to move ‘democracy’ and in Toodyay, Northam, Bolgart, Bakers Hill, Calingiri, Clackline, Gidgegannup, – wherever possible – the West’s NATO Goomalling, Wooroloo and Wundowie. “In all history there is no war which was not hatched by governments independent military alliance right up to Russia’s Printed by Rural Press of the interests of the people to whom borders. war is always pernicious, even when America’s military-industrial complex, THANK YOU successful. the motor of the US economy since the end of the Great Depression in 1939, was Many thanks to the volunteers who helped produce this edition of The Toodyay Herald: “All violence consists in some people forcing others – under threat of suffering as always in need of a reason for being. Joseph Fernandez (Legal), Beth and Peter Ruthven, Jean Witcombe, Richard Grant, To that end, our economic and political Allan Gregory, Colleen Sheehan and Geoff Ebdon. or death – to do what they do not want to do.” elites have returned to the view that the I moved on to the advent of Bolshevism right thing to do is villainise Russia. ADVERTISING in Russia and the killing of the Russian They tried the anti-Muslim angle for RATES - NO GST IS APPLICABLE Specifications Tsar’s family in 1918. many years, but found eventually that they couldn’t quite get all they wanted from it. The cost of a casual display advertisement is Print-ready material is required to be supplied “There can be only one permanent $4.15 per column cm (NB Column width is at a minimum resolution of 300 pixels per inch revolution — a moral one; the regeneration They needed a more natural enemy, 61.5mm.) at the size the advertisement is to be printed, of the inner man,” Tolstoy said. an enemy Americans would know to be Full Page: Mono - $664.00; Colour - $715.50. eg: full-page, half-page etc. ‘Only one happiness’ villainous as if that ‘knowledge’ was Setup size: 260mm wide by 400mm deep. Trades and Services “LOVE is life. All, everything that I somehow inscribed in our genes. Single advertisement in colour (including Half Page: Mono - $332.00; Colour - $383.50 understand, I understand only because I If President Vladimir Putin’s Russia initial artwork): $25.00. didn’t exist, our ruling elites would have Setup size: 260mm wide by 195mm deep. Setup size: 61.5mm x 60mm deep. love. Double advertisement in colour (including “There is only one enduring happiness had to invent it, which is pretty much what Quarter Page: Mono - $166.00; Col. - $217.50. they did from the remnants of a century of Setup size: 127.5mm wide by 195mm deep. initial artwork): $50.00. in life – to live for others. Setup size: 127.5mm x 60mm deep. “To be good and lead a good life means Russophobic Cold War mongering. Page Nomination Loading: Front page - 100%, “Armies are necessary, before all things, Back page - 50%, Centre pages / Page 3 - 25%, Classified Advertisements to give to others more than one takes from other pages - 10% (based on mono price). $7.00 for 20 words; $3.00 per subsequent 20 them. for the defence of governments from their Advertorial: Must be accompanied by words. own oppressed and enslaved subjects,” Payment must be submitted on placement. “How is this revolution to take place? purchase of quarter page advertisement (text Nobody knows how it will take place in Tolstoy said. 200-300 words) $55.00. Public Notices Patriotism ‘unnatural’ $7.00 for 20 words; $3.00 per subsequent 20 humanity, but every man feels it clearly in Colour advertisements of a size not listed above himself. “PATRIOTISM is an unnatural, irrational, incur a $51.50 surcharge with the exception words. Payment must be submitted on placement. “And yet in our world everybody thinks and harmful feeling, and a cause of a great of the Trades and Services section. A one-off part of the ills from which mankind is setup fee (artwork fee) may be charged for Discount of changing humanity and nobody thinks advertisements which are not print ready. A 10% discount will apply for full page and half of changing himself. suffering. Advertisers, please supply a postal address for page bookings for a term of six months or more “Slavery exists in full vigour but we do “This feeling should not be cultivated, accounting purposes and the number of issues and a 5% discount will apply for full page and not perceive it, just as in Europe at the end as is now being done, but should on the in which you would like your advertisement half page bookings and for a term of three and of the 18th Century the slavery of serfdom contrary be suppressed and eradicated by to be included. Accounts are issued every five months. Where a long term discounted was not perceived. all means available to rational men.” month with payment required within 30 days. booking is cancelled by the client, the Herald I pointed out that the new Cold War is an Payment may be made by post, EFTPOS or at reserves the right to back-charge the full rate “People of that day thought that the the Herald office. on all discounted advertising bookings. position of men who were obliged to American creation that started in the early till the land for their lords and to obey 1990s and is now fought on many fronts. INDEMNITY AND WARRANTY them was a natural, inevitable, economic It includes NATO expansion to Russia’s borders, economic sanctions designed to Advertisers and/or advertising agencies upon and by lodging material with The Toodyay Herald for publication condition of life, and they did not call it or authorising or approving of the publication of any material, INDEMNIFY The Toodyay Herald Inc. slavery. ‘cripple’ the Russian economy, a coup against all claims, demands, proceedings, costs, expenses, damages, awards, judgements and any other “If only free men would not rely on that in Ukraine promoted by Washington, liability whatsoever wholly or partially arising directly or indirectly in connection with the publication of which has no power and is always fettered American withdrawal from the 1972 the material, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, indemnify The Toodyay Herald Inc. in relation to defamation, libel, slander of title, infringement of copyright, infringement of trade marks or names but trust in that which is always powerful Anti-Ballistic Missile nuclear treaty, of publication titles, unfair competition, breach of trade practices or fair trading legislation, violation of rights and free – the truth and its expression. claims that Moscow tried to rig the 2016 of privacy or confidential information or licences or royalty rights or other intellectual property rights AND “I sit on a man’s back, choking him US presidential election and ongoing WARRANT that the material complies with all relevant laws and regulations and that its publication will not give rise to any claims against or liabilities to The Toodyay Herald Inc., and without limiting the generality and making him carry me, and yet assure economic and military threats. of the foregoing, that nothing therein is in breach of the Trade Practices Act 1974 or the Copyright Act 1968 myself and others that I am very sorry for “The hero of my tale, whom I love with or the Fair Trading Act 1987 or the defamation, consumer protection and sale of goods legislation of the States him and wish to ease his lot by any means all the power of my soul, whom I have and Territories or infringes the rights of any person. The Toodyay Herald accepts no responsibility or liability in relation to any loss due to the failure of an possible – except getting off his back.” tried to portray in all his beauty, who has advertisement to appear according to instructions. The positioning or placing of an advertisement is at the I then gave Leo a brief outline of World been, is, and will be beautiful, is Truth.” – discretion of the Editor. War 2 in which 27 million Soviet citizens Russian novelist Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910). COPYRIGHT Where no charge is made for the preparation of advertising material, The Toodyay Herald will remain owner of copyright in the advertising material. Such advertising material may be reproduced only with the consent of The Toodyay Herald and upon payment of such fee as The Toodyay Herald may require. Office Hours are from 9am-1pm on highlighted days ©Original works are subject to copyright and shall not be reproduced without authority. March - April 2019 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday nEXT tOODYAY hERALD edition March 4 5 6 7 8 9 advertising deadline STORY deadline dISTRIBUTED 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 Noon Thursday Noon Tuesday Wednesday 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 March 21 March 26 April 3 31 April 1 2 3 4 5 6 THE TOODYAY HERALD March 2019 Page 3 V8 Juice fuels winning bet on Billy’s dogs Ieva Tomsons In Taiwan, he screwed down the price too hard on a container load of 10,000 BAKERS Hill greyhound trainer Billy grey school bags which turned up in Perth Choules (72) knows a lot about greyhounds unsewn, in two pieces. – and handbags, ladies shoes and luggage. “I learnt then to inspect the shipment before Self-assured and gregarious, Billy grew up leaving,” laughs Billy. in a loving family with three siblings who In 1988 Billy left Cecil Brothers and were much older than him. branched out on his own, starting Choules What he didn’t know, until he was 35 years Discount Shoes in old Midland. old, was that he had been adopted as a baby Sporting the West Coast Eagles colours, by the Choules, who lived two streets away the shop battled on for three years in a harsh from his biological parents in Bassendean. economic period when interest on business “I was spoilt rotten and sports mad,” said loans soared to 28 per cent. Billy who left school at 14 to start a long “We got out with our pants on – just.” career in the retail industry. While he was still with Cecil Brothers, Starting on the sales floor at Ezywalkin Billy bought his first greyhound in 1985 shoe store in Hay Street Perth, Billy’s which he presented to a totally unimpressed management potential was spotted early Margaret for Christmas. and he became one of the state’s youngest managers when he was 21, overseeing the ‘Couldn’t turn corners’ company’s store in Northam. FROM an inauspicious start with a dog “It was a big adventure coming to Northam that couldn’t turn corners because he was – I had to fend for myself for the first time.” trained on Sydney’s straight tracks, Billy After three years in Northam where he kept and trainer Jeff Leppard went on to win the up his football training with Railways, Billy $34,000 Perth Cup in 1991 with four-year- returned to the big smoke and soon after old Frantic Night. married Margaret in 1972. In 2007 Billy was flung two metres into From the early 1970s Billy worked for the air when he was struck by the 89kg lure several retail shoe stores and graduated to at the Northam greyhound track. the wholesale market where he was sent to He spent six weeks in Royal Perth Hospital’s the eastern states to buy handbags for David trauma ward where orthopaedic surgeon Woodroffe and Co. Professor Rene Zellweger reconstructed his Wolf whistles leg before he was transferred to Northam Hospital for more than six months’ “WHAT you do learn is not to walk down the recuperation. street with just one handbag – always carry a To honour Professor Zellweger, Billy few to avoid the wolf whistles,” laughs Billy. named a dog after the man who had saved From 1973-1978 he travelled to Adelaide, his leg from amputation. Melbourne and Sydney on a regular basis to Zellweger’s Magic, like Billy, turned out source handbags and negotiate deals with the to be a winner on his first start at Cannington local manufacturers. in 2012. By the 1980s Australia couldn’t meet And Margaret? She’s now referred to as supply and, working for Cecil Brothers, Billy a “greyhound racing identity” and was the spent eight years wheeling and dealing for Billy Choule with Zellwegers Magic, (pictured) winner of the 2014 Dale Cup for WA’s Best first woman appointed to the WA Greyhound the company in Hong Kong, Taiwan, China Grade 5 Dog, with coat awarded in 1991 to Billy’s $34,000 Perth Cup winner Frantic Night. Racing Association committee in 2003 where and Japan. she served more than seven years. “I was away 24 weeks in the year and Bob was the oldest of the siblings and recalls needing to take a satchel of local The couple currently have 23 dogs which Margaret was holding the fort with two went searching for his siblings, including currency to pay for an evening meal. race at Cannington, Northam and Mandurah. young boys and she was really great.” his youngest brother William (Billy). Billy learned enough Cantonese to secure “They are fed on the best beef, biscuits In Asia, Billy would often meet up with “He was looking for William Charles, not contracts with the Asian manufacturers and and V8 juice; no needles or hormones,” said fellow commercial travellers and one was his Choules,” said Billy who still can’t believe rapidly realised that the art of making a good Billy. biological brother Bob Knox who he knew how their lives had intersected so often deal – one that won’t backfire on you – is to “I started with a good name in the sport from Perth as a friend and colleague. without realising that they were brothers. ensure that “everyone makes something”. and that’s how I want to keep it.” “Bob was in the shoe business and I was Billy and Bob were doing deals at a in bags; we looked alike and jokingly would time when Taiwan and Hong Kong were call each other brother.” undergoing rapid modernisation. They knew each other for 20 years before “Even though the salesmen stayed at The discovering they were brothers from a family Hyatt in Taiwan, sanitation was poor and of five children, four of whom ended up in there was a silk screen over the bed to stop children’s homes. the roaches falling down,” said Billy who Shire President refuses to admit misconduct Michael Sinclair-Jones It also breaches clause 4.1.8 of Mr Scott’s current contract of employment and Section TOODYAY Shire President Brian Rayner 5.103 of the WA Local Government Act. has refused to publicly admit a finding of President Rayner declined to stand aside misconduct against him and Shire CEO at last month’s council meeting while public Stan Scott for publishing “derogatory” questions were asked about the finding of statements in the shire’s ratepayer-funded misconduct against him and Mr Scott. Toodyay Community Newsletter. “I’ll hear the questions first and then Their breach of the Shire Code of Conduct decide,” President Rayner said. occurred last year but was not revealed until The first question asked whether President the shire council’s January meeting when Rayner had been found by a shire ruling to Mr Scott and President Rayner – backed by have breached the Shire Code of Conduct. Crs Paula Greenway and Judy Dow – tried “I’ll take that question on notice,” unsuccessfully to get it overturned. President Rayner said, implying that he President Rayner tried again last month to needed more time to get further information prevent the official finding of misconduct about the question before responding to it against him and Mr Scott being placed on at the next council meeting on March 26. the official public record while the council It prompted the public gallery to erupt decides whether to offer Mr Scott a new into loud guffaws of laughter, after which contract of employment. President Rayner was again asked to stand The adverse finding was made by Deputy aside to allow the question to be answered. President Therese Chitty who ruled last Deputy President Chitty then took over August that President Rayner and Mr question time from her seat at the side of Scott had both breached the Shire Code the top table and said “yes” – a finding of Conduct by publishing a “derogatory of misconduct had been made against or improper” statement in Mr Scott’s ‘R President Rayner and Mr Scott last August. U OK?’ article in the shire’s April 2018 When asked if Mr Scott had refused newsletter. to apologise or withdraw his published “Breaches of this code harm our reputation, statements, Deputy President Chitty said she reduce public trust and disrupt the proper had no power as the investigating officer to function of the shire,” the Shire Code of order an apology or retraction. Conduct states. Continued Page 5, Editorial Page 4. Page 4 THE TOODYAY HERALD March 2019

Fast lane to the future FIVE new passing lanes on a wider Toodyay Road is a significant development that will have major economic and social ramifications for our local community. It will make the journey to Perth quicker and easier for local commuters, and safer for tourists visiting our many local attractions. No longer will they be stuck behind slow- moving trucks crawling up hills or face heavy vehicles tearing around narrow bends on the last hilly slopes before town. Main Roads WA says Toodyay Road is a key connection for “agricultural, extractive industries, waste and tourist traffic”. That means its primary use is as an industrial route for heavy-haulage traffic. Much as we admire the rolling hills and lush fields on Perth’s shortest scenic route to our town, its primary function is economic, and the use is only going to get busier. Allowing three million tonnes of Perth garbage to be dumped in Hoddys Well is a bad decision for several reasons but we may The way we were – Chairman Edward Davy addresses a ceremony on 19 March 1959 to mark the Toodyay Road Board’s move to the be stuck with that, at least for now. town’s former courthouse in Fiennes Street after vacating premises in Stirling Terrace which on the same day became the town’s public Nor is change likely any time soon for library. Members of the board – now the Toodyay Shire Council – are seated along a top bench which was designed for a magistrate increasingly large tonnages of gravel, sand to hear cases, and where the shire president, deputy president, CEO and executive assistant now sit at council meetings. The board’s and clay being dug out of those same rolling horseshoe-shaped meeting table was also moved to the new site and continues to be used for Toodyay Shire Council meetings, although hills and fertile valleys to build more homes turned the other way so that three councillors now sit with their backs to the public gallery. and roads for Perth’s seemingly endless population growth. Mining and extraction are covered by letters In fact, speed zoning was identified as a Thanks for help on awful day different State laws but remain essentially concern at public consultation forums held same thing – dig it up and cart it away. Fewer die as speed limit cut by the Road Safety Commission in Merredin A TREE fell over onto our paddock fence and Toodyay. from a neighbouring property and our WA and local government authorities – TOODYAY RoadWise Committee’s vision especially our shire – need to be vigilant that However, some of our other local roads beautiful golden palomino stallion escaped for all road users in the Shire of Toodyay is to where speed limits revert to derestricted may and ran off and despite all our efforts was the State’s economic demands don’t wreck have a positive driving experience with zero our community’s vital tourism potential and give drivers a false impression that the road unable to be saved. future social and economic prosperity. fatalities or serious injuries while advocating ahead is safe for all vehicles to travel at the We would like to thank ranger Chris and for safe roads and informing the community maximum speed of 110km/h. his helpers from the shire, and Heather What’s going on? about safe road use. Drivers must take note that driving at the from Heartlands veterinary practice for the TOODYAY Shire President Brian Rayner The local committee comprises nine maximum speed limit is not compulsory and compassionate way that they dealt with this was right to publicly criticise a recent local energetic and very-focussed members that we should all drive to the conditions of situation. social media post that portrayed a worker on including two local councillors, the Officer in the road. We would also like to say a huge thankyou a building site with a noose around his neck Charge of Toodyay Police and representatives That includes light conditions, the weather, to Kevin and Leslie Hugg of Toodyay with the comment “perhaps this is the kind from the WA Local Government Association gradient and curves, volume and type Caravan Park for their assistance. of safety device the shire is using”. and Main Roads WA. of traffic, concealed entrances, seasonal They went over and above to help us on Such depictions generally fall within the Remember, the speed limit on Toodyay situation, sight-lines and roadside vegetation. one of our most terrible days, when nothing realm of political satire and are protected by Road was at one time 110km/h. Should you be concerned about a speed could ease our pain at losing our beautiful an implied right to free speech in Australian The number of lives lost as well as the limit on any road we ask that the first point boy. common law. serious injuries on that road were among the of contact is the Shire of Toodyay. Thanks also to Glenn who helped us with But in the hothouse world of local council highest in the state. The shire council can then consider if it the logistics – we couldn’t have managed it politics, the Facebook post was unwise. At the request from the Shire of Toodyay is a reasonable request and, if so, will refer on our own without your help mate. It came a week after President Rayner following community feedback, Main Roads the matter to Main Roads WA to undertake Thank you all. exposed the council to public ridicule by WA undertook a speed zone review and the a speed zone review. Paul and Jo Sutton refusing to admit an official finding of speed limit was reduced from 110km/h to100 Bob Neville Toodyay misconduct against himself and the shire km/h and 90km/h. Chairperson CEO, despite it being revealed on the front Since then, the number of fatal and serious Toodyay RoadWise Committee page of last month’s Toodyay Herald. injury crashes have reduced considerably. Old specs wanted He also voted against adjourning a debate on the CEO’s job contract to March 26 so THIS month, boxes will be placed at that two relatively new councillors who Toodyay Pharmacy, St Stephen’s Anglican were interstate could return to Toodyay on Thinking caps solve mystery helmet and St John the Baptist Catholic Churches for that date to represent the views of the people donations of your no-longer needed eyeware; Milton A Baxter Then by a sheer stroke of good fortune, while no cases please. who elected them to the council last year. reading what I thought was a totally unrelated What’s going on, Mr President? HERE’S a big thank you to all the people who 32-page booklet titled Geraldton Primary The donated items will be collected and read and followed up on my letter in the March School Souvenir 1878-1978 there it was – the sent to two WA prisons – Casuarina and Michael Sinclair-Jones Acacia. Editor 2018 Toodyay Herald. Toodyay Helmet. My letter concerned the intriguing story of You can imagine my astonishment when I Inmates have been taught to dismantle, the Toodyay Helmet worn by a deceased young opened the book at page six and gazed down clean, repair and refract the lenses and these The Toodyay Herald invites you to have boy, Francis Edward Dunne. on a 1914 photograph of a Geraldton Primary are then passed on to the Fred Hollows your say in our letters page. Please People did indeed put on their thinking caps, School teacher sitting before a blackboard, Foundation and other charitable organisations email us at [email protected] trying to nut out the origins of this piece of upon which was drawn the elusive helmet who export them to overseas countries. with your full name, address and phone Toodyay millinery history. showing its construction, and her class making Prescription glasses and plain dark glasses number. Letters that are short, sharp and In a 1873 Supreme Court case, Edward their versions of a Toodyay Helmet. are also acceptable. to the point about topical local issues are Dunne gave a wonderful description of the However, as with many historical searches, Should you have old pharmacy reading preferred. The Herald reserves the right hat and clothing his young son wore when he the search for more information on the Toodyay glasses, these are very useful too. went missing but we had no details regarding Helmet is ongoing. Your donation has a two-fold benefit – to to edit letters for length, grammar and the origins of this piece of apparel. punctuation. Many people were intrigued and if anybody the prison inmates who have been trained to We knew not of its creator, nor of subsequent comes up with further information the Toodyay do a very valuable task and for the people hatters (mad or otherwise) who may have Historical Society would be pleased to receive who receive the spectacles. produced them. additional facts. If you have any queries, phone me on 0405 The fact that they were named Toodyay Toodyay Historical Society stalwart Don 242 483 and I will endeavour to assist you. Helmets indicates a Toodyay origin; were they Carter made an outstanding effort to trace Patricia de Soto-Phillips sold in shops perhaps? the hat and even enlisted assistance from the There were many suggestions and numerous Northam Historical Society folk who have Toodyay theories were floated around but as time passed spread the word further afield. it began to look as if we were never going to To all those who were involved in any way Tennis the game of life find an answer to the intriguing conundrum. – many thanks. LIKE Michael Edwards, in February’s letters, I am also a Life Member of the Toodyay Tennis Club and I played both competition and social tennis until I was 75 years old. In his Toodyay Tennis Club article in last month’s Herald, Michael also told us that scientists said playing tennis could add 10 years to someone’s life. It may be significant to note that now, at 85 years of age, I am still able to carry responsibility every week for two areas in my local church, both of which use my brain extensively. Millinery Class at Geraldton Primary School in 1914 . From left: Maimie Scott, Amy Wood, Edie Like Michael, I urge everyone to give Boyes, Florrie Oldfield, Miss Baker (teacher), Nancy McCarley, Lydia McLean, Eva Macer, Beryl tennis a try. Baker (assistant teacher), Maimie Erskine, Ada Ward. The design for the Toodyay Helmet can Veronica Dymond be seen on the blackboard behind Beryl Baker. Toodyay THE TOODYAY HERALD March 2019 Page 5 Misconduct Five new passing lanes in Toodyay Road upgrade muddies Shire CEO contract

Continued from Page 3. IN ANSWER to a third question about how the council had responded to the finding of misconduct, Deputy President Chitty said no action was taken. When asked if the council intended to take any action at all, she said the question would be taken on notice and answered at the next council meeting on Tuesday March 26. A special meeting of council is due to start two hours earlier on the same day to discuss whether Mr Scott should be offered a new contract of employment when his current contract expires on July 22. It follows a similar special council meeting behind closed doors last month when Cr Bill Manning, seconded by Cr Rob Welburn moved to adjourn discussions on the CEO’s contract until 2pm on March 26. Deputy President Chitty and Cr Eric Twine supported the 4-3 decision after agreeing that there was enough time before the council’s April 18 contract deadline to enable Crs Ben Bell and Craig Brook – who missed last month’s meeting – to attend. This would allow all nine elected members to have a say and vote on what Cr Manning Main Roads WA map of planned roadworks for 20km of Toodyay Road between the edge of Toodyay townsite and Morangup Road. described at the council’s January meeting Continued from Page 1. woodland” next to the Clackline Nature existing nature reserve,” a Main Roads as “the most important decision any council MAIN Roads WA said there had been no Reserve “will be conserved in perpetuity” WA January 2019 project update quoted can make”. public objections to vegetation clearing and 188 artificial nesting hollows for black Mr Warburton as saying. President Rayner and Crs Greenway and permits which were approved by Federal cockatoos installed. “The Main Roads team are to be Dow voted against the adjournment. and State agencies. Shire of Toodyay Reserve Management congratulated for obtaining this outstanding Cr Bell said in January that he opposed Up to 55ha of roadside vegetation will Officer Greg Warburton said the Toodyay result which has added valuable habitat to offering Mr Scott a new contract of need to be cleared for the entire project. Naturalists’ Club supported the plan. our precious conservation estate,” Mr employment. To offset this, 196ha of “prime wandoo “The offset significantly expands an Warburton said. State issues licence to dump first 50,000 tonnes of metro waste in Hoddys Well Continued from Page 1. THE NEW landfill licence allows 50,000 tonnes of ‘putrescible’ waste to be dumped in Hoddys Well in the first year of operation, which is due to start “as soon as is practicable on issue of the licence”. More licences are planned for another five adjacent waste pits to enable a total of 1.5 million tonnes of rubbish to be dumped in the former claypit over the next 10 years. When those pits are full, further licences are planned for another 1.5 million tonnes of rubbish to be dumped in nearby pits currently being dug by Austral Bricks to extract clay. The overall plan is for three million tonnes of rotting metropolitan waste to be dumped in Hoddys Well over the next 20 years. The current Toodyay Road upgrade is designed to accommodate an extra 60 rubbish trucks a day, seven days a week, travelling between Perth and Toodyay before turning off into Fernie Road and Salt Valley Red dots show 70 houses within 5km of dump. The Licence report map shows Perth’s new rubbish dump for rotting waste is 65km from city. Road to the Chitty Road landfill site. central dot is landfill site owner Simon Farrell’s house. Page 6 THE TOODYAY HERALD March 2019 Burglaries, roadworks test new police on the beat 1300 motorists breath tested TOODYAY police stopped a total of 1300 motorists for random drink and drugs tests in January and last month. “We’re finding a lesser trend to drink driving and an increase in driving while impaired by drugs,” Sgt Flaherty said. “The drugs include cannabis and amphetamines, with users of all ages in A SPATE of burglaries has kept local both categories. police busy in the New Year. “We have the capacity to conduct A house in Folewood Road was trashed roadside drug tests – if you take the risk after a 79-year-old woman who had lived you will get caught.’ there alone passed away in January. Patience urged Relatives and friends organising her affairs were dismayed to find that the SGT FLAHERTY is urging motorists empty house had been burgled several to be patient and exercise caution with times, windows smashed, furniture broken, major new roadworks underway on drawers tipped out and rooms ransacked. Toodyay Road between Harper Brook and “The place was turned upside down,” Sgt Clackline-Toodyay Road. Flaherty said. Further improvements – including two “Fortunately, we have some evidence new overtaking lanes in both directions which we are holding until we shore up between Toodyay and Morangup Road – some more information. are also planned. “We don’t think it was kids.” “I think the road upgrade is going to be a very positive thing for our community,” Speed lasers Sgt Flaherty he said. LOCAL police will be using laser speed “I’ve seen reports that Toodyay currently guns in Toodyay’s main street this month has 250,000 visitors a year and that this to ensure motorists drive safely in the will increase to 300,000 over the next 20 40km/h speed zone around the busy central years. business district and near the school. “The new road is going to be a fantastic “I’m happy for officers with lasers to help and much safer to drive on. stand out in front of the police station to “We just need to drive to the conditions check traffic speeds, particularly now that and be a little patient while that work is children are back at school,” Toodyay’s underway.” new police chief Sgt Dave Flaherty said. … and a warning “Young primary school kids in particular may be at risk near shops in Stirling PATIENCE is also being urged when Terrace and Charcoal Lane.” roads are closed to enable local emergency Sgt Flaherty, who has previously acted services volunteers to fight bushfires. as officer-in-charge at Toodyay and lives Sgt Flaherty said some motorists became in the shire, said he knows the local area “testy” when Toodyay Road near the well and will work hard with his team to Northam turn-off was closed for a few maintain community safety. hours last month while firefighters and fixed-wing water bombers were used to Bail with night curfew extinguish a fire on a farm near Coorinja Winery. A TOODYAY man was arrested and released “We shut the road to keep people safe on bail with a night-time curfew after New local cops on the beat. Sen. Const. Joe Neal (left) and Sen. Const. Kevan French. burglaries at the Toodyay District High and because of smoke on the road,” Sgt School and Freemasons Hotel. to arrest the man the next day and charge Flaherty said. Toodyay’s new officers are Sen. Const. “Giving coppers a hard time at the The first burglary occurred in early him with two counts of burglary and one Joe Neale, who was previously stationed January when a school window was forced of stealing. control points was not helpful. at Morley and Sen. Const. Kevan French “People need to be patient if a road is open, classrooms entered and fridges He is due to appear in the Northam from Cockburn. opened. Magistrates Court next month. closed because of fire.” The Freemasons Hotel was burgled last New cops in town month when a fire escape was used to enter the premises after hours. Cigarettes and TWO NEW police officers have been How to de-clutter your digital space cash were stolen from the kitchen. posted to Toodyay after the departures last Computer Safety Some people prefer to save photos from their Police used video security camera month of First Class Const. Josh Leone to Phil Hart phone into a separate folder for each month on footage, fingerprints and DNA records Perth and Const. Jodie Jarvis to Northam. their computer. YOU have probably seen people whose desks Other people prefer to save photos by subject, are filled with clutter. such as family, architecture and food. The same can happen with people’s When it comes to emails, it helps to have computers, tablets and smart phones. separate folders. Imagine having more than 12,000 unread You can have folders for family, friends, emails, or more than 25,000 photos on your work, credit cards and voluntary organisations. phone, or 17 open tabs on your web browser. Remembering to move incoming emails into Or the desktop on your computer could be each of those folders takes time and effort, but so crowded with icons and shortcuts that you it makes finding things a lot easier afterwards. have trouble finding the one you want. Having 17 open tabs on your web browser These are forms of ‘digital clutter’ and they suggests that you have not yet had the time to can be very frustrating at times. read them all. Overcoming digital clutter takes two things; One trick is to set aside time to read them, finding a way of organising things in a way and if you think that you might want to refer to that suits you, and having the determination them later, you can always save the web page to follow through with being organised. onto your device. When it comes to organising things, there is Organising the icons by category on your no ‘one size fits all’. desktop is another time saver. What suits one person might not suit You can find more information at bbc. somebody else. in/2GZXCIt . Meet the 2J2AIR radio team at IGA 2J2AIR 105.3FM events, Shire of Toodyay information and Ken Stivey music to suit all tastes. Program guide AS MENTIONED last month, we’ve been assisting new presenters with their MONDAYS: 11am The Green Hour; 8pm applications to add more diversity to our Swooners and Crooners and, 9pm Jazz. program schedule. Wednesdays: 11am The Green Hour We are pleased to announce that Margaret (repeat); 8pm Wide World of Folk and, 9pm Fox will be making her radio debut on Blues. Sunday April 7 at 9am with an hour of light Thursdays: Noon Folk Hour Archive classical music to ease your way into the (repeat). day. Fridays: 11am The Green Hour (repeat); Being a community-focussed radio 7-10pm Friday Rock (7pm Country, 8pm station, we value your opinion to assist Retro, 9pm Rock). us with future planning, so we will once Saturdays: Noon Country (old) and 1pm again be camped outside IGA on Saturday Country (new). March 16 and look forward to hearing your Sundays: Noon Ready 4 Country (repeat), thoughts. 8pm Swooners and Crooners (repeat) and, Stay tuned to 105.3FM Toodyay’s own 9pm Jazz. community radio station for local business Daily: 10am and 3pm What’s On in and tourist information, community Toodyay community information. THE TOODYAY HERALD March 2019 Page 7 EMERGENCY SERVICES Corri takes ‘Annie’ on a spin out Coolgardie way

Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade brigade – everyone will benefit as they will Julimar both be important assets after completing Alison Wroth the required training. Dale has had previous experience as STILL not any heavy summer rainfall, a firefighter and is looking forward to so even though the fire season has been updating and getting back into the swing relatively quiet, fire is still a constant worry of things now that his work allows him to. for everybody. Recently our well-respected member Among the varied callouts there have Corri was so desperate (we think) for a been some interesting ones with the break from Simon that, when the need Munyerring Springs fire bringing a few arose, she borrowed ‘Annie’ and went challenges to some of our lieutenants’ chasing a fire out Coolgardie way. driving skills. The Community Emergency Services Word is that they are all apparently expert Manager received praise for Corri’s at using the Max Trax now. professionalism and communication skills The community should not become while on deployment. Congratulations complacent with this ‘nice’ summer Corri, you did yourself and Julimar brigade weather and keep in mind that house proud. surrounds and firebreaks need to remain Please make yourselves available for the clean and fireproof. supper roster. It only takes strong winds to bring leaves, Delicious food does not miraculously limbs and branches down on firebreaks to appear on Friday nights, so just put your make them increasingly inaccessible to name down and remember – the simpler both firefighters and landholders during the better. an emergency. Anybody can throw snags on the barbecue These fire breaks can be easily checked or produce dip and crackers. Put your name without too much hassle. down on the roster and write the date on If your home is surrounded by trees, your hand. Too easy. cleaning gutters comes to the fore as If you would like to meet some really nice well as maintaining the household pump Julimar residents or you are considering especially if you are going to stay and becoming a member of the brigade in any defend your home. capacity, please call in to the Julimar Fire The Julimar Brigade recently welcomed Shed on a Friday evening around 6pm and two new volunteer firefighters to its ranks. with music playing and lively discussion, Dale Canning and Lucas McLerie have the captain will introduce you around and already added a bit of life and, especially answer any queries. You may even win the From left: Rob Koch, Kirsten Barrack and Mick McKeown at the new sign. in Lucas’s case, some added youth to our chook raffle for a $2 donation. New remote control sign warns of local fire danger

Community Emergency Services “The sign really stands out and is a Manager shining example of what can be achieved Rob Koch by supporting local business, which in turn support community groups”. RESIDENTS and visitors coming to Toodyay This type of sign is widely used in Victoria from Perth, Northam or Goomalling may and has recently been adopted by local have noticed the town’s new electronic fire governments in fire-prone areas of WA. danger rating sign advising them of the day’s The rating and message panel can be fire conditions. controlled remotely and are even capable of The sign has been strategically located at receiving automatic feeds from the Bureau the corner of Hamersley Street and Stirling of Meteorology. Terrace to ensure maximum exposure at the The LED lights are powered by solar panels Perth side of town. and automatically adjust their brightness Toodyay Central Volunteer Bush Fire throughout the day and night. Brigade acquired the sign with funding Fire Danger Ratings can also be found on from the Toodyay and districts Bendigo the Bureau of Meteorology website bom.gov. Community Bank. au or emergency.wa.gov.au by referring to The Shire of Toodyay installed the sign and the Lower West Inland forecast district. will provide ongoing management. The Shire of Toodyay would like to thank the Toodyay Central Volunteer Bush Fire Toodyay Central Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade and the Toodyay and Districts Brigade Captain Mick McKeown said: “It Bendigo Community Bank for their hard is important that everyone understands fire work in bringing this project to fruition and danger ratings and what they mean for our reminds all residents to ensure that they have, safety. and understand, their bush fire survival plan, “Ratings of severe, extreme or catastrophic For further information visit dfes.wa.gov. mean fires may be hard to control and au/emergencywa/prepare. residents should consider their level of Toodyay Central Volunteer Bush Fire preparedness and even consider evacuating Brigade, along with the shire’s other brigades, from high-risk or vegetated areas during such Bejoording, Coondle-Nunile, Julimar and conditions,” Mr Keown said. Morangup welcome new members. Contact Kirsten Barrack, Toodyay and Districts the brigades’ local captains or the shire on Bendigo Community Bank manager said: 9574 9300. Page 8 THE TOODYAY HERALD March 2019 EMERGENCY SERVICES Heavy vehicle All quiet on Toodyay’s western fire front licence volunteers Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade The weather has certainly been dry, hot and DFES in Northam. required Morangup windy; not good fire-fighting conditions. The guys and girls have been called to Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade Sue Maddrill Our building extensions and renovations flooding, storm damage and searches. are progressing well. These last couple of years the SES has been Bejoording THE BRIGADE would like to thank the The Department of Fire and Emergency busier than the brigade. From the desk of The Badger Toodyay Op Shop for their very generous Services (DFES) is planning to extend and They’ve helped out in Moora, Merredin, donation. revamp the Morangup Fire Station into the Wattening, Bakers Hill and Northam just to THE FAIRLY benign time we had in the lead- All Toodyay brigades benefit from the Op Morangup Co-location Centre. name few areas. up to Christmas seems a long time ago now. Shop’s generosity. This will house the fire brigade trucks and With the months going by so quickly we February saw a sharp increase in the If you have goods to donate for resale the the State Emergency Services’ (SES) trucks will soon be out of the fire season and that number of call-outs, and for a small brigade Toodyay Op shop is certainly a worthwhile in a better manner than currently. is the best time to be a new recruit as the with limited resources we met all our organisation. The Toodyay SES has five vehicles and training courses begin and volunteers will obligations. At the time of writing, all is quiet on the there was even talk of a flood boat at one be fully trained for the start of fire season in Fortunately none of the fires was too western boundary of the Toodyay shire. stage. October/November. serious although a couple were quite large. There have not been any fires in Morangup Rob Koch has been liaising with our captain If you are thinking of volunteering, the This does raise the issue however that we and not a lot of movement of our trucks, and secretary to come to an agreement on the Morangup Brigade is always happy to have need a couple more volunteers, especially although two of our volunteers were part of design. new recruits, but courses must be undertaken one at least with a Heavy Goods Vehicle a taskforce to Coolgardie a few months ago This seems to be at the final stage and once before you can step foot on the fire ground. (HGV) licence. and one of our trucks went to Coolgardie in all is signed and sealed on Rob’s part, it goes Contact our captain Jeff Venn by emailing If you would like an obligation-free January. to the tendering process. him at [email protected] or ring discussion with a crew member or our Thank you to those brigade members and The Toodyay SES is open to anyone in the 0417 714 798 in the afternoon or evening. captain, just call the numbers below. all members that put the time in to keep the shire to volunteer. The brigade meets on the third Saturday of It’s not as onerous a commitment as you brigade running. Training has been held in Morangup or the month. might think. I will not name names as they will be embarrassed if I do, but there were a number of members whose attendance was above and beyond the call of duty and their efforts are Outdoor machinery sparks six paddock fires really appreciated. Our meetings on the third Friday of the Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade We urge once again that if you are using rating sign that has been installed at the month, followed immediately by a training Toodyay Central any machinery or equipment in the bush or corner of Stirling Terrace and Hamersley session, continue to prove their worth. Mick McKeown paddock, make sure you have enough water Street. (See story Page 7.) Once again, well done to the rostered close by or a suitable fire extinguisher to deal This initiative of Toodyay Central was first members who turn up whenever possible, IN THE December edition of The Herald with any mishap. Close, means close. mooted at a brigade meeting early in 2018. and thanks to Brian Rigby and Lawrence we focussed on fires in the shire during If the water or extinguisher are more than Please continue to look after yourselves Hayward who plan and deliver the training. November. a few seconds away, a fire can escape before and others over the next few months and Our next meeting will be Friday March 15 During November, Toodyay Central had you can deal with it. keep an eye out for the new sign. at 5.45pm. turned out to four fires, three of which had Fire can move faster and in more directions If you need to receive SMS notifications The Bejoording Volunteer Bush Fire been started in paddocks by electrical faults at once than you can. of Harvest Vehicle Movement or Hot Brigade asks you to be vigilant and careful and mechanical sparks. As ever, please don’t be too embarrassed Works Bans or variations to Restricted and using any tools or vehicles with the potential Unfortunately, since the end of January, to dial 000 as soon as a fire starts. Do this Prohibited Burning Periods or Total Fire to cause a fire. straight away. Toodyay bush fire brigades have been called Bans, please send an SMS with the message Remember to always plan and prepare for out to six fires ignited by machinery. The bush fire brigade volunteers would fire, and have a clear contingency strategy in rather deal with a small fire sooner than a BANS to 0408 017 439. We know that many of us still have work For information regarding emergency place should things get out of control. to do during the drier months that involves large fire later. Fires can be a catastrophic risk to people, In February, Central also turned out to a warnings visit the Department of Fire and the use of machinery outdoors but the use Emergency Services’ website. animals and property, so take care. of machinery can create obvious hazards hay truck fire and over the summer many Advice is free, but getting it wrong can be from such things as hot exhausts, electrical members of the brigade travelled to help If you are interested in finding out more about us, or if you would like to join our expensive. faults and mechanical sparks caused by out at fires near York, Coolgardie and If you have any questions, you can contact parts of machinery such as mower blades Balladonia. brigade, please get in touch with our captain, Mick McKeown on 0439 998 808 or our captain Barry Grey on 9574 2149 or The or excavator buckets interacting with hard On page 7 of this month’s Herald there is Badger on 9574 4834. objects such as rocks. a report on the new electronic fire danger secretary, Lorraine Hort, 0407 421 234. THE TOODYAY HERALD March 2019 Page 9 Emergency Services New miner predicts imminent bauxite boom Avon and Hills Mining Awareness Some new players have entered the you have free access to monitor what is Group mining arena; Chalice Gold Mines, which happening in your own backyard. AHMAG Committee has pending tenements for nickel, copper, If Pacific Bauxite Ltd is correct in platinum and vanadium in a 156km2 area predicting an imminent boom in bauxite THE HILLS are alive – with live mineral including the Julimar State Forest, and mining, AHMAG needs your help more than exploration tenements. Pacific Bauxite Ltd, which holds pending ever. They straddle national parks, nature live exploration tenements over a 405km2 To become an AHMAG member ($10 a reserves, State forests, productive agricultural area 60km north east of Perth. year) or help with any of our activities, visit land and private properties. In its annual report to shareholders in June facebook.com/avonhills or write to PO Box There are a number of companies paying 2018, Pacific Bauxite Ltd reported: 111, Gidgegannup WA 6083. big dollars to maintain their exploration “The immediate future for bauxite mining registrations on land they intend to mine remains promising. Submission update for various minerals including bauxite “A boom period is considered imminent, MUNDARING Shire Council has not set New Silver Chain seniors’ social centre. throughout the Avon Valley and vanadium driven by demand from China where a a date for when the Swan Gravel/Trico between Wundowie and Bakers Hill. substantial fall in domestic reserves and Resources granite pit at Bailup will be Lithium Australia’s pending application to production will require a corresponding discussed. Seniors enjoy mine lithium is in an area already pegged for increase in bauxite reports.” bauxite mining north of Wundowie, while The company believes that “existing north east of Bejoording and to the east of bauxite supplies together with planned open day at Toodyay from Bolgart to Calingiri, Northam developments are expected to satisfy global Iron Pty Ltd has its sights set on mining more demands until approximately 2020. iron ore. “Beyond this point in time, new projects Silver Chain Northam Iron Pty Ltd already has live will be required to meet forecast demand, exploration tenements east of Nunile, from with a supply deficit of more than 25 million Silver Chain Bejoording to near Southern Brook, which tonnes by 2025 and over 50 million tonnes Alison Middleton they hope to convert to mining tenements. by 2030.” By far the biggest local bauxite mining Residents who have been breathing a sigh MORE than 20 seniors recently enjoyed a proponent is Yankuang Bauxite Resources of relief that Yankuang have packed up and warm Wheatbelt welcome when Silver Chain’s Ltd which has located 265 million tonnes in gone home to China should think again. Toodyay Social Centre opened its doors for a To see who has pending and live exploration special event. our area. The company recently relinquished a tiny tenements in your area, there is an easily People from Toodyay and surrounding areas accessible website that shows who is doing enjoyed an open day on February 12, where parcel of its holdings but maintains the vast majority as live exploration tenements what and where. staff and volunteers shared details of the Visit LandTracker Maps, register, and services and activities on offer. throughout the Avon Valley. The social centre provides a comfortable, home-like setting where seniors over the age of 65 can socialise, relax and have fun. Clients enjoy activities including arts and crafts, days out and visits from guest speakers as part of a specially designed program. A dementia-friendly environment allows visitors to enjoy music boxes, puzzle solving and support to practice skills. Care team leader Melanie Bernasconi said staff and volunteers were delighted to welcome 25 seniors to the open day. “We welcomed all our special guests which included Melissa from the Cancer Council, the guys from Silver Chain Digital Services, home chef Lyla from Alzheimer’s WA and Claire from the Shire of Toodyay,” she said. “Morning tea was enjoyed by all then the clients had a try of the virtual reality glasses which they all thoroughly enjoyed. Some even went back for more. TOODYAY “Others enjoyed a spot of gardening, while some played bingo.” Home Chef Lyla provided some yummy desserts to try out and Melissa had a quick chat about being sun smart. “After lunch we congratulated our volunteer Warren Hall for reaching his 10-year milestone,” Melanie said. “Warren was a volunteer driver and then went to help in our social centre. “He greatly appreciated the certificate and pin and claimed he will wear it with pride at the Anzac Day march.

Live and Pending Have a say on Local Tenements Government Act February 2019 IF YOU haven’t already had your say on the proposed changes to the Local Government Act, it’s not too late to do so. The following link will take you to a number of surveys to complete: dlgsc.wa.gov.au/ localgovernment/strengthening/Pages/LG-Act- Review.aspx. This is the first significant reform of local government conducted in more than two decades. The objective is for WA to have a new, modern Act that empowers local governments to better deliver services to the community. The survey closes on Sunday March 31. Live and pending mineral exploration tenements in the Avon Valley. Page 10 THE TOODYAY HERALD March 2019 Council turns deaf ear to community concerns

It ignored the community’s feedback and reflects your expectations and aspirations for to start a two-way conversation on matters increased rates regardless. Toodyay’s future direction. of importance to you instead of relying on a But it wasn’t the rate hike itself that appears to Ideally, I would like to see a draft of the monthly shire newsletter to push what is often have disillusioned some community members. proposed 2019-20 shire budget provided to the incorrect or incomplete information, and a The It was the use of the word “I” by many broader community for comment very early in locked shire Facebook page that prevents councillors when justifying their support for the piece to ensure that we, as a council, are on community engagement. Insider raising rates. the right track. At the end of the day, you as a member of the Comments by some councillors along the Perhaps even a dedicated Facebook Toodyay community need to know that your lines of “I have looked at the budget and I page or similar where the community and voice is being heard and that your ideas are believe a rate rise is necessary” were taken by administration can openly discuss various being listened to. Ben Bell many residents to indicate that the personal elements of the proposed budget would help The upcoming shire budget process provides position or opinion formed by an individual ensure that your comments and feedback are an ideal opportunity for this to occur. IN AN age where the range of communication councillor cancelled out the opinion of 2000 considered during the process. After all it’s your money the shire is spending tools available to people is seemingly endless, Toodyay ratepayers. I am not proposing anything revolutionary and you should be entitled to get a big say in I am continually surprised that one of the main A similar situation occurred during the public – just that the shire and council find a way how it is being spent, yes? issues community members raise with me consultation period for the shire’s long-term during any conversation is their frustration at financial plan when numerous voices, including not having a voice on things that may affect community members with a strong background their life in Toodyay. in accounting and finance, expressed concern Orchids grow in roadworks area Until recently, my initial response was to that the current 10-year plan puts the shire on walk them through various communication the verge of bankruptcy within the next four Ieva Tomsons options such as email, phone calls and written years. submissions to Toodyay Shire Council. The shire, of course, has a (very unattractive) HERALD readers have expressed concerns Then it dawned on me. silver bullet to fix this problem in the form about the impact of Main Roads WA’s It is not that residents are struggling to get of imposing massive rate hikes on Toodyay Toodyay Road road-widening program on their thoughts, questions and comments to the residents in coming years. local flora and fauna. appropriate decision makers in the council or But the question remains – why weren’t On page 27 of last month’s Herald, Main administration. community members’ insights, thoughts and Roads WA reported that 54.87ha of native Rather, it was that these community members opinions given more weight during public vegetation would be removed to make way felt they were not being listened to. consultation, especially given that they all for road safety improvements between The more I speak to people, the more appeared to agree that the current plan puts the Dryandra and Racecourse Roads. prevalent this complaint appears to be. shire in a very precarious financial position in Toodyay resident Elaine Hall recently met Most people have resigned themselves to the future years? with Main Roads WA representatives to fact that their opinions aren’t being treated with There is a temptation for councillors to express her concerns about the roadworks’ the level of consideration they deserve. argue that they were voted onto council by the effect on an extensive stand of Giant Sun Consequently, many appear to have stopped community to make decisions on behalf of the Orchids (Thelymitra grandiflora) on Toodyay engaging with the council, saying “why ask, if community. Road. council is not going to listen?” That is only half true. During wildflower season an area 100m When I delve deeper into this with them, they Our number one role as councillors – as stated north east of Dryandra Road is densely cite examples such as last year’s rate increase by law – is to be your voice on the council. covered with the scented blue orchid. A carpet of Giant Sun Orchids north east of and numerous planning documents that were That role is to express your thoughts, “I have never seen so many of these Dryandra Road on the Toodyay Road verge subsequently adopted by council. opinions, objections etc. on every single matter orchids. It looks like an English woodland last November. Photo: Elaine Hall. As many of you may already know, prior to that comes before the council. full of bluebells and it was absolutely species, the site was visited by Kings Park imposing last year’s rate increase, the council Council chambers are probably one of the stunning last November,” Mrs Hall said. Director of Horticulture and Conservation via the CEO sought public comment on its only places where the word “I” should never Mrs Hall is not opposed to the widening of Lesley Hammersley who confirmed that the proposed 2.2 per cent rate rise. be used. Toodyay Road but is concerned that future concentration of the blooms was unique. The Toodyay community response was After all, no councillor should vote on a matter generations and tourists will not get to enjoy To offset the approved maximum clearing overwhelming with 2000 rate payers telling based on their own personal opinions, beliefs or the prolific display of the orchids. quantity Main Roads WA has purchased the council to take a one-year pause in any rate prejudices but should make decisions according Roadworks are not expected to commence 196ha of remnant vegetation adjacent to the rises because they had just endured a decade what you and others in the community want. at the Dryandra end of Toodyay Road for Clackline Nature Reserve (next to Toodyay- of what many considered to be excessive rises I mention this because the council is about more than a year and Mrs Hall hopes a Clackline Road) where it will install some that far exceeded inflation. to start workshopping Toodyay’s 2019-20 shire solution can be found to protect the local of the 188 artificial nesting boxes which So, having asked the question and received budget, and I would like to strongly encourage attraction. will also be placed in nearby reserves for the community’s response, what did the council you to help guide your council throughout While the orchid is not an endangered endangered black cockatoos. do? this process to ensure that the end result THE TOODYAY HERALD March 2019 Page 11 100-year march started when Great War ended

Toodyay RSL President Peter Brennan has Soldiers’ Association (RSA) was officially written a history of the local sub-branch to founded on 7 October 1919. mark this year’s 100th anniversary of its A Toodyay Herald article in May 1919 formation after World War 1 ended. The noted that the “Toodyay and Districts Branch following extract covers those early years. of the Soldiers’ Association has been in RSL forged in Gallipoli existence for six months”, which suggests that the first meetings occurred in November BY 1915 the Great War had been raging or December 1918. overseas for nearly a year and some The first Toodyay RSA president was Australian servicemen – many of them Earl Joseph Sinclair Wroth, the son of wounded or disabled – were returning home. Joseph Ablett Wroth who was secretary of Soon after the Gallipoli landings in April the Toodyay Road Board (now Shire of 1915, the Commonwealth Government Toodyay). formed War Councils in each state, which The RSA secretary in May 1919 was H W until 1917 were specifically responsible for Love and by December 1919 the secretary the repatriation of invalided men. was M Heffernan. Several prominent citizens and various The first recorded treasurer (May 1920) is philanthropic organisations also formed listed as Milton Taylor Lloyd Wroth. returned servicemen’s clubs throughout The first RSA meetings were held at the country, and issues of repatriation, Toodyay’s Freemasons Hotel but later moved rehabilitation, and support were dominant to the Victoria Hotel. topics of conversation in these clubs. Earl Wroth served as Toodyay sub-branch These discussions turned to the need for a president from 1919 to 1922 and 1929 to support organisation with a wider base and 1931, and also served as secretary from 1932 a bigger voice, and led to formation of the to 1938. Returned Soldiers’ Association. He had earlier joined the 10th Light Horse Representatives from various returned Regiment’s C Squadron in the Australian soldiers’ groups met informally in the eastern Imperial Force on 7 January 1915 and states on 10 May 1916 and agreed to create embarked for the Middle East on the 5324- a national body to represent and support the ton troop transport HMATA52 Surada which needs of returned servicemen. sailed from Fremantle on 17 February 1915. The first meeting of what is now known Earl Wroth initially saw service in Egypt as the RSL was held in in Melbourne on 6 before being transferred to Gallipoli. June 1916, a date generally accepted as the After Gallipoli, he was transferred to the organisation’s foundation. 8th Field Ambulance and sent to the Western Delegates attended from Queensland, Front in France where he was one of six The first Toodyay Returned Soldiers’ Association president Earle Joseph Sinclair Wroth. NSW, Victoria and SA and decided to stretcher bearers to be awarded a Military name the organisation the Returned Sailors Medal for evacuating wounded soldiers and Soldiers Imperial League of Australia while under heavy enemy attack. Toodyay farmer Earl Wroth won a Military Medal for bravery in World War 1 while serving (RSSILA) and drafted a constitution ratified ‘Conspicuous bravery’ with the 8th Australian Field Ambulance Unit in France when for three hours he and five at the first Federal Congress in Brisbane in other stretcher bearers carried wounded soldiers to safety while under heavy enemy attack. September 1916. THE CITATION reads: By 1918, NSW, Tasmania, and WA had also “At the South West of Bellicourt during John Ambulance Service, an active member Toodyay Fire Control Officer and a Toodyay joined the league, making it a national body 29th and 30th September 1918 these stretcher of the Julimar Volunteer Bushfire Brigade, a RSL Sub-Branch affiliate member. recognised by the Federal Government as the bearers (E. E. Calf, 4462 F. C. Skiller, 3209 official representative of Australia’s returned A. A. McGoldrick, 6674 A. A. Wall, 518 E. servicemen. J.S. Wroth, 4757 A. J. C. Parker) displayed The name was changed in 1940 to the conspicuous bravery in carrying wounded Mackenna and Ellea win Returned Sailors, Soldiers and Airman’s across ground exposed to enemy observation Imperial League of Australia (RSSAILA) and under heavy shell and machine gun fire. before becoming the Returned Services “Each carry was across the Hindenburg League of Australia in 1965. (front trench) System and owing to the rain Sandakan Scholarships Members adopted the current title of making the ground slippery each trip took Returned and Services League of Australia three hours to carry 1000 yards across wire, RSL Toodyay Sub-branch sharing this auspicious journey with you. in 1990. trenches etc. Jacqui Graham Toodyay RSL members will attend the 5000 WA veterans unite “Despite many casualties among the Toodyay Farmers Market on Sunday March bearers, these men by their endurance, Toodyay RSL members had the privilege 17 to answer any questions and provide WA ALSO faced problems in rehabilitating determination and example encouraged of raising the flag at Duidgee Park during information about services available to ex- and supporting its returnees and by 1918 the other bearers and, in an extraordinarily the Australia Day ceremony on January 26. service personnel and their families. there were two WA returned soldiers’ difficult situation, made the evacuation of We were asked to undertake this duty Details of how to become a member and organisations; the Returned Services League wounded possible.” because this year is our centennial year. application forms will be available. and the Returned Services Association. “Devotion to duty of these men is deserving Our national day symbolises the of special reward.” determination and success of our forebears We will celebrate our centennial year with The two had similar aims but the national a ball on Saturday October 5. body said they could not affiliate with it until Earl’s son Joseph Charles Wroth was also and may we always remember that Australia the two WA bodies amalgamated. a sub-branch president and Toodyay Shire has come a long way in such a short time. Members wishing to attend should contact The new state organisation was known President from 1969 to 1971. Mackenna Cousinery and Ellea White from the treasurer before the end of April. as the Western Australian Branch of the His grandson Charlie Wroth is another Toodyay District High School are this year’s The next sub-branch meeting will be at RSSILA, and by mid-1919 had 67 sub- former Toodyay Shire President (2005-2009) Sandakan Scholarship recipients. 1300 on Saturday April 13 in the Toodyay branches in WA, with 21 in Perth and more and currently Chairman of the Toodyay St We congratulate them and look forward to Memorial Hall. than 5000 members statewide. First Toodyay meetings THE TOODYAY Branch of the Returned Toodyay Curtains & Blinds

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Toodyay Progress Association Our council could have sought a briefing Larry Graham, Chair from the department to find out what it all means and decide where to gofrom here. But THERE is a distinct lack of civic leadership it did not. in this shire; it is destroying the social fabric The council could have directed the and it is time it changed. administration to prepare a confidential report What our civic leaders do not understand is for it on each of the matters that have been that a few ‘malcontents’ and newspaper stories raised. But it did not. have not caused these problems. The council could have directed the The issues are real, and it is time our council administration to find a mentor CEO and/or woke up to them. president to manage it through this process. As anyone interested in civic affairs in But it did not. our town knows, the WA Local Government There are hundreds of other things our Rosedale Village at the corner of Rosedale Street and Westview Place is fully occupied. Department has started an inquiry into our council could have done; but it has done shire and it has highlighted our lack of civic none of them and, confusing activity with leadership. achievement, it has focussed on all the tired Our council has never met to consider what old political defences of attempting to show Full house shows need for more an official inquiry from its regulator means that all is good. and it is hard to imagine any other organisation Well the truth is that all is not good and it behaving in this way. is critical that our civic decision-makers stop elderly residents’ rental units The department said it had “… been pretending it is and deal with things. reviewing a number of matters relating to the We have heard that some staff are being Butterly Cottages We welcome new residents into our units, Shire of Toodyay”. accused, threatened and vilified and that also Margaret O’Sullivan both at Rosedale and Butterly, with the hope It said “The assessment of these matters has must stop. the transition to your new lifestyle living identified there is a reasonable suspicion that Such behaviour is unacceptable and the OFFICIALLY by the time this edition of The goes smoothly for you all. Council has breached sections of the Local association does not, has not and will not Herald comes out, we will be out of summer Our recent afternoon tea and sharing Government Act 1995 (Act) and associated target any employee of the council; we strongly and heading into autumn. session held with service providers and Regulations”. recommend to anyone suffering that treatment This year, no different from the last, is members was welcomed by all who attended And the regulating department went on to that they go directly to the police. flying by far too quickly. and was a great opportunity to ask questions say that it “will be conducting an investigation As that bad behaviour has to change, this As an association we have had a very and learn a bit more about what is available. into the shire’s operations and affairs during inquiry presents the council with a real busy month keeping abreast with the many All 21 Butterly units are occupied, with the period 1 January 2013 to the present”. chance to change for the better; it gives us the challenges and jobs involved in running such people waiting for vacancies, confirming the We have published the terms of reference opportunity to put some of the real divisions a great organisation. need for affordable rental accommodation before, however a most important part is that to bed, to change office holders and to end the We must give a huge thank you to the all for the elderly to live independently. the inquiry is to “…ascertain whether the Shire petty squabbles and infighting that have driven the crew at Makit Hardware, while singling Toodyay is very fortunate to have such a council and administration are functioning in civic affairs in Toodyay for so long. out Edith for her ongoing energy and the unique venture here in our town. the best interest of the community…”. These positive changes can only happen if time she gives to our reticulation, Carolyn Our plan is to build another nine units on That is a big deal and it is not an attack on our councillors want them to but sadly their the lower side of Rosedale Cottages. staff, nor is it about the CEO’s contract or actions tell us that they do not; all they are for her continuous generosity and Mike for offering is more of the same and that is a recipe making all those letter box brackets – you all There is no time-frame but plans are being who will be shire president; it is not bullying, made and we look to the future confident that it is not singling anyone out for attention, it is for an ongoing disaster. truly understand the words community and formal recognition that the answers provided As always, we point out that we are a not-for- contributing. with community and local support our next by the shire to complaints raised by our profit, volunteer public advocacy group that We are fortunate to have the assistance dream will become a reality. association were not enough to prevent an has not, and will not, run, support or endorse of the Wooroloo Prison work crew and We are looking for people who may have inquiry. candidates for elected office. appreciate the many projects they undertake, a few spare hours and can assist with some In any functioning organisation that alone PS: Thank you to all those who attended our from gutter cleaning to paving and lots in basic maintenance and occasional catering. would trigger a meeting to find out why it is recent AGM; we had eight times more people between. For further information on tenancy, so, but it has not happened and the next thing at ours than attended the shire AGM. Rosedale Cottages are keeping everyone becoming a member ($5 annually) or joining that should have occurred is that our council It is not a competition but we have been on their toes still with teething issues, but the committee, call Gretta on 9574 2868, ought to have demanded a report from the trying to get the shire to understand they have we are happy to say they are finally settling Margaret on 9574 2183 or email butterly2j@ administration on how we got into this mess. lost the confidence of the community and this down. gmail.com. But it did not. is yet another demonstration of that. THE TOODYAY HERALD March 2019 Page 13 A lot of water has run under and over Newcastle Bridge

Toodyay Historical Society So, a new (second) and much wider and Robyn Taylor higher Newcastle Bridge was completed in 1900. INSTEAD of kicking off the year with Over the following decades there were dinner at one of Toodyay’s pubs, we decided regular flood events that washed away the to make use of Duidgee Park for a twilight bridge approaches, even covering the bridge, picnic. resulting in Newcastle Bridge Number Three A town park is an important social space for being erected at a height above the previous the community and we are certainly blessed flood levels. with Duidgee Park with its well-kept lawns This new bridge, named the Avon River and amenities and direct access to the Avon Bridge, was built next to and downstream River. from the old bridge, requiring the demolition Of course, it hasn’t always been like this. In of the boarding house. fact, the picnic area wasn’t established until The Avon River Bridge was officially 1975, then in 1978 it was given the name opened in 1968 and the old bridge was Duidgee Park acknowledging the Noongar demolished the following year. Bindoon lunch feeds hungry Toodyay CWA members. people and their name for the region. Walkers along the renamed Newcastle Over the decades ongoing improvements Bridge can still see the old timber piles and have resulted in the park being used for concrete from its former namesake. Luscious lunch precedes dealing celebrations such as Australia Day; festivals The above is a brief history leaving out and events including Moondyne and the major works and additions undertaken Avon Descent; family reunions, picnics and over the decades by the Toodyay Shire and with touchy situations spaces to wander through, walking the dog, community groups to improve the grounds and going down to the river to skip stones Country Women’s Association and its amenities. This was grassroots-level training, and watch the waterbirds. That is another story for another time. Elizabeth Mansom covering the duties and responsibilities Going back to the 1860s, the land, I must thank our researcher extraordinaire, of the branch president, secretary and IN THE last issue we told you about Newcastle Town Lot 1, was acquired by the Beth Frayne, for providing her very detailed treasurer together with event organisation Monger family who built a store, warehouse history of this section of the town of attending the CWA summer school to learn and conflict resolution. and outbuildings on it. about fiddle rugs which are in high demand Toodyay. The Saturday after the craft meeting In 1902 Henry Davey bought the property Our next excursion will be to Northam where in hospitals and care facilities to occupy Stephanie went to a training day at state from C S Monger as the family home. In we will visit the Bilya Koort Boodja Centre people with dementia. office in Perth. 1949 the two-storey building was acquired for Noongar Culture and Environmental The February craft day emphasised these Advertised as a learning and development by Industrial Extracts Ltd and converted into Knowledge. Meet at Drummond House at items as well as poppies for the 100th day for those interested in serving at state a boarding house for single men. 1.30pm for carpooling or at the centre in anniversary of the RSL this year and other level, it covered topics such as Direction The boarding house was demolished in Northam at 2pm. small items such as prosthesis covers that with Governance, Effective Feedback September 1968 and several years later the The visit will be followed by a stroll along will use up those bits and pieces we can’t in Touchy Situations, Group Decision land was developed into a picnic area. the river before a fish and chips picnic tea. bring ourselves to dispose of and will now Making and, if you’re brave enough to Of course, the landscape in and around Next meeting: Wednesday March 20, 7pm go to a good cause. consider anything to do with the monetary Duidgee Park is very different from those at Drummond House next to the bank. The Tuesday before the craft meeting, side of things, Comprehending Our earlier times with levels being altered for Contact: [email protected]; three of us went to Bindoon for a CWA Finances. replacement bridges and roadworks. Robyn Taylor, [email protected], phone, training day, each clutching our CWA When I say that the state balance The first Newcastle Bridge, built with 9574 2578, or Beth Frayne, toobide4@iinet. Constitution as instructed. sheet as at 31 March 2018 had totals of jarrah timbers, was completed in 1861 after net.au, 9574 5971. The two presenters were long-time $11,272,838, you will realise why I used the establishment of the newly gazetted town Donegan’s Cottage Research Centre in the members and office holders at state level of Newcastle in 1860. showgrounds opens Thursdays from 1-3pm. the word ‘brave’. Contact PO Box 32 Toodyay WA 6566 or, and kept us busy note taking from 10am At the other end of the spectrum, we The constant flooding of the first settlement, to 3pm, with a break midway for the usual now West Toodyay, had resulted in the toodyayhistoricalsociety.org.au. are all looking forward to Friday March View books and displays at Drummond luscious CWA lunch. 8, when nearby branches will meet at government’s decision to establish the new town upstream on higher ground around the House on Saturdays from 10am to noon. Toodyay for the annual Gathering of the Membership is $10 per annum. Birds where we try to plan joint outings convict depot and pensioner village. and functions so they don’t clash, and we can attend as many as possible. The day is sure to be one of fun, friendship and great food. The CWA meets at 1pm on the fourth Thursday of the month in the CWA Hall in Stirling Terrace. There is plenty of parking in Charcoal Lane, with disabled access from the lane down the side of the hall. To book the hall, please contact Glenys Clabaugh on 9574 5100 or 0427 478 325. 527 Julimar Road, Toodyay

A Duidgee Park picnic shelter indicates the extent of the last flood in February 2017. Photo: Beth Frayne.

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Lui Marcelli 0408 090 892 Page 14 THE TOODYAY HERALD March 2019 From crockery to cars – auction offers the lot Lions Lines Thinking of becoming a Lion – why not This year we supported the Toodyay Mini railway Nuala Ennis join the Toodyay Lions Club? District High School with donations for We are an eclectic group of young, young- Country Week and Chaplaincy, the RSL wagons set to THE LIONS Club Jumbo Auction will be at-heart, working and ‘retired’ people, that is, Sandakan Scholarship, Disaster Relief and held on Saturday April 6 on the football oval. until they joined Lions. of course, Play Group, through the proceeds The increase in the seller’s fee from $2 to We meet every second Tuesday at the from the Wriggly Worm. roll on April 7 $5 aims to encourage better quality items to Freemasons Hotel. The Lions Club would like to thank The be offered for sale; buyers’ tickets are still Contact Jim Silvester 9574 4695 or talk to Toodyay Car and Motorcycle Club for its Toodyay Miniature Railway two dollars. us during the Lions Jumbo Auction. very generous donation to the club. June Eastwood There will be no reserves for items under Apart from good food and fellowship, Please refer to the advertisement on this $50. Lions raise funds to support many local and page for further information and contact AS EASTER is late this year it has been Living in spacious Toodyay encourages national groups. details. decided to open the 2019 running season clutter so let us help you to de-clutter and on Sunday April 7. rationalise your ‘assets’ while helping Also, the school holidays commence Lions raise funds for local and national before Easter so our first Wednesday run organisations. Doug plans an action-packed will be April 17 followed by Wednesday Remember – someone’s unwanted item is April 24. another one’s treasure; the politically correct school year with 100km hike Trains will also operate on Easter version of an old quotation. Saturday, Sunday and Monday, April 20, We are happy to receive crockery, books, 21 and 22. ornaments, garden tools and any other Toodyay YouthCARE Council After the success of the last Wilderness (School Chaplaincy) Hike, Doug is planning an eight-day, 100km On Anzac Day, Thursday April 25, the household goods. trains will not begin until midday and run Larger items such as furniture, indoor and Vivienne Freeman, Secretary hike from Jarrahdale to Dwellingup in Term Two. to 3pm. outdoor, machinery and building materials The Moondyne run will be on Sunday are also welcome. OUR FIRST council meeting for 2019 was Students, start your fitness programs early. We also accept cars, tractors and caravans. held on February 12. The Drumbeat program is planned for this May 5. For help or advice, contact Steele Williams To get the year underway, our usual Big year. With the exception of Anzac Day, our on 9574 2903. Breakfast Club was held on February 11 and Drumbeat stands for Discovering, running times are 11am to 3pm; adults $3 This year, auctioneer Tony Maddox and was well attended by students and parents. Relationships, Using Music, Beliefs, and children $2. his assistant will once again do a tireless and This year we are again able to offer Emotions, Attitudes and Thoughts. Our club would welcome active new professional job. Breakfast Club on Mondays, Wednesdays The Toodyay YouthCARE Council 2019 members to share in all aspects of the Come on down to the oval on Saturday and Fridays. AGM will be held on Tuesday April 9 at 2pm running and maintenance of what has April 6 and see them in action and enjoy the Thank you to the many volunteers who at the Toodyay District High School. become a very important part of the banter. ably assisted and to Foodbank, IGA Toodyay Positions for nomination are chairperson, Toodyay tourism experience. Don’t forget to collect your buyer’s ticket. and Bee Happy for their generosity with food deputy chairperson, secretary and treasurer. We are constantly upgrading and adding Sellers need to meet with Lion Steele on supplies. Our YouthCARE Council comprises to the fun side of our rides and have some Friday April 5 to pay their selling fee; please Our recent raffle was won by Mrs Soro, representatives from the Anglican, Baptist, exciting projects in the pipeline. complete the registration form earlier to second prize went to Sue Thompson and Catholic and Uniting Churches. We welcome the news Micaile is soon make this job easier. Lions members will third prize to Vickie Haggerty. If anyone would like to join us on behalf to return home to a new location within document all sale items. Our generous community contributed $882 of these church groups, we would be pleased Butterly Cottages. Registration forms can be obtained from to our school Christian Values Education to have you on board. He has, however, enjoyed his stint at Tony Maddox Real Estate, IGA, Freemasons To our local community – we thank you Northam Hospital where the food is so Hotel, Makit Hardware, Toodyay Community program. Doug, our chaplain, has made his room for your continued support of our school much better and there are lots of Toodyay Resource Centre and the Toodyay and chaplaincy program. faces among the staff. Districts Bendigo Community Bank. available for students who might need time Buyers can preview items on Friday and space for a while and he will also provide evening April 5 – just wander around the pastoral care if required at the time. oval to check out the goods. He will also be the Cadets Unit Leader On the fall of the hammer on Saturday, this year, which involves activities such buyers are advised to retrieve any valuable as participating in the Anzac Day service, items from the lot. learning lifesaving skills from our emergency When you pay for your purchases drop into services groups and camps etc.. the office and meet the happy pride of Lions This year, 70 students have enrolled in who run the office. cadets.

LIONS Club of Toodyay Inc. JUMBO AUCTION Saturday 6th April 2019 We Serve Important information for SELLERS Food and Drinks will be available for sale

There will be a maximum of 500 Lots for the entire event. The Toodyay Lions Club takes no responsibility for Lots after the Lots will be accepted on Friday, April 5, 2019 from 8.00am. fall of the hammer. PLEASE NOTE: Sellers with Lots of 15-20 (20 Maximum) Auctioning of the goods will commence at 9am sharp on are accepted by prior arrangement only. Please advise by Saturday, April 6. close of business on Thursday, March 29 to Nuala Ennis on Seller's donation is $5 per Lot, plus 10% commission on sale 0429 386 317 or [email protected] amount. No old TV's or Computers please. Goods purchased become the responsibility of the buyer on fall For large and expensive items, call as above or Steele of hammer. Williams 9574 2903, and please leave a message. Auction Registration Forms are available at Toodyay IGA, Tony Delivery of these items will be on Friday, April 5, 2019 after Maddox Real Estate, Freemasons Hotel, Toodyay Bowling Club, 10.30am. L J Hooker Real Estate and Gidgegannup Convenience Store.

Entry is at the Hockey Oval Gate (not the main gate). Important information for BIDDERS Gates open at 8am for viewing lots and purchasing of your $2 No Lots will be accepted for sale on the day of the Auction. Buyer's tickets. ALL items in the Lots NOT sold must be removed by the Food and drinks will be available for purchase at the Auction. owner and ALL items in the Lots purchased must be removed by buyer by 5pm on the day of the Auction. NO DOGS ARE PERMITTED ON THE OVAL DURING THE 2 DAY EVENT

Net proceeds divided between Natural Disaster (Flood & Fire) Appeals and local beneficiaries THE TOODYAY HERALD March 2019 Page 15 Barley brouhaha sows seeds of doubt for farmers Toodyay Agricultural Alliance investigation has particular significance for Frank Panizza WA barley producers. WA is the largest exporter of barley in FEBRUARY is typically a quiet month for Australia with the bulk of the crop being most local farmers apart from livestock exported to China and there has been a work, mostly involving feeding stock and substantial rise in barley exports to China watering point maintenance. over the past five years. Locally there appears to be no problems Barley plantings within the Shire of with water levels in dams and soaks, which Toodyay and throughout the state have risen is unsurprising as recent wet winters and to meet this demand. unseasonably wet summers have boosted Any disruption of this trade with China is water levels. likely to have a detrimental effect on barley Unfortunately, this is not the case state values and ultimately barley plantings for wide, particularly in southern areas of WA the upcoming growing season. that had a dry winter. Currently it is not clear what the outcome Most sheep farmers in south-eastern of the investigation by China will be and coastal areas have had to resort to water what effect it will have. carting to meet livestock requirements in An imposition of an import tariff is possible some areas. under WTO rules. I recently attended the annual general Uncertainty about barley values for the meeting of Co-operative Bulk Handling 2019 season is likely to lead to reduced (CBH) Group in Perth. planting of both malt and feed barley. CBH is Australia’s largest co-operative This may result in either increased sowings and Australia’s largest grain exporter and is of wheat, canola and oats, or further increases owned entirely by WA farmers. in sheep numbers, particularly in southern The meeting was well attended by growers Australian barley being loaded onto a ship for export. areas where farmers are reluctant to replace from around the state. barley with wheat due to wheat’s higher Attendees were given a thorough insight investigation into Australian barley by China at low prices, thus injuring local susceptibility to frost. into the past season’s highlights and plans China. (Chinese) producers. Unfortunately, there are still reports of for the future of the co-operative. Last November the Chinese government While investigations like these are stock theft occurring within the shire. A worrying development that was raised instigated an investigation into whether commonplace and are completely within If you suspect stock have been stolen, this at the meeting was the anti-dumping Australian barley was being ‘dumped’ into World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, this should be reported promptly to the police. New committee gets cracking on this year’s Show Toodyay Agricultural Society and general business were completed. members whose run-up to this year’s 166th If you are community-minded and love Alison Wroth, Chief Steward We all agree that having our office and Show will be interesting, enjoyable and, just to challenge yourself, this rural-based State administration officer available to the as in previous years, very satisfying for all competition is a great way to network and PEOPLE sometimes think that community community for a couple of days a week, is a members when Show day comes around. looks good on your CV. group AGMs are boring old meetings that are positive public relations move in regard to The committee will be working hard to, If you are between the age of 18 and attended by the usual regulars and that they our future plans and retaining our historic once again, present a wonderful Show on 30 and are interested in entering this are best avoided – unless you want a job. home at the showgrounds. Saturday October 12. competition please contact me on 0437 099 Well, I am here to tell you all that it was Feel free to contact Geoff on 0476 918 601 Keep a lookout for this column in 960 or email our administration officer at a very quick meeting at the recent Toodyay if you have any questions about the Show or The Herald for monthly news as well [email protected]. Agricultural Society Inc. AGM where call into the office. as on our Facebook page and website, Winding up, keep an eye out for the members greeted each other like family. Office opening hours will be announced in toodyayagsociety.com.au. possible workshop this year; confirmation There were new faces, hot cuppas and the next month’s Herald. There is a direct link to our Ground Space will be in next month’s Herald. meeting was under way. The new committee comprises young, Stewards on our website; very handy for all The topic will be photography and includes Society president Kevin Hutchings is in fresh-faced and keen community members possible stallholders. getting tips from the judge on how to win the his final year and all the committee want to as well as ‘the regulars’ who provide the Northam will host the 2019 Royal Best Exhibit sash. make it a great one for him. experience and knowledge in organising Agricultural Society’s Rural Ambassador Photography is a big section so the Kevin welcomed our new administration such a historic agricultural and community Award later in the year. workshop should benefit all who attend. officer Geoff Appleby to the ‘family’, read event. out his president’s report and the elections Welcome to all our new committee Rural women learn about stock theft, guns Women In Farming Enterprises members as we do not hold an official Alison Wroth meeting in April. An email with further information will be FEBRUARY’S meeting of the Toodyay circulated with the time and date of the casual branch of WIFE was excellent, with a April catch-up. well-organised presentation by local police Coffee, cake and information on CBH – representatives Jodie Jarvis and our new what more can you ask for? Officer-In-Charge Dave Flaherty. Our Mother’s Day fundraising and Answering all difficult and some freaky information/membership stall on Friday and questions put to them without a hiccup, those Saturday May 3 and 4 outside IGA includes who made their way to the Freemasons Hotel a raffle with a load of wood for the lucky for the seminar benefitted from the Security winner. on the Farm and at Home information night Keep an eye out in the next issue of The given by the police. Herald for more details and a report on the Our heartfelt thanks were given to Jodie AGM held on March 5. and Dave that night, as they covered items This year’s diary features interesting on gun control, drugs, burglary, identifying guest speakers, the tour of CBH’s Avon assets, stock theft and the most important Yard, agricultural risk management, CSBP thing, to contact the police even if you think soil testing and Farm Safe information you have seen something that just doesn’t intermingled with our general meetings. make sense to you. With a women’s relaxation evening What you see could be the one part of the including yoga, beauty product trials and wine bigger jigsaw that the local police are waiting tasting, it sounds like a branch membership on. that even a small rural landholder would So don’t hesitate, call the police if you see consider becoming a member of. something suspicious. Attend three meetings with a friend and see In April we have organised a tour of the what you think; you might surprise yourself. CBH Avon Yard in April. For further information contact Alison For those who are keen, come along to Wroth on 0437 099 960 or, warragenny@ our early April ‘coffee catch-up’ for new bigpong.com. Volunteer grants on offer VOLUNTEERING WA, with support from volunteers and volunteering, for example: LotteryWest, is offering organisations A thankyou breakfast; morning/ involved with volunteering the opportunity afternoon tea; picnic; sausage sizzle; to apply for a grant of up to $1000 to open day; awards ceremony; street parade; organise an event which recognises garden party; movie night; fun activities and thanks volunteers during National and self-care or yoga sessions. Volunteer Week in May. For more information on the grants There are a number of different ways which close on Sunday March 10, visit to recognise, celebrate and promote volunteeringwa.org.au. Page 16 THE TOODYAY HERALD March 2019

Bottle Shop at The Victoria Hotel Toodyay TOODYAY ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• eat Gr y Mon – Fri 4pm ghtl Happ 2 for fortni 6pk $8 Pints, cials $5 House Wine Hour $ pe ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 20 S 750ml CChheeffss $$1155 LLuunncchh SSppeecciiaallss Mon - Fri. Changes each week. Check out what's on this week ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Evenin Mea� Dea��

$ Mon - Chef’s Pie of the week 20 includes Tues - Parmy chips & salad Pint of house beer Wed - International Chefs Choice or glass of Huge range Thurs - Porterhouse Steak Chips salad house wine ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• of stock Sunday 17th March OPEN SStt PPaattrriicckkss DDaayy 7 DAYS A WEEK Guiness on tap Pint of Guiness and Beef and Guiness Pie $25 FROM 9AM 10AM SUNDAY

Phone 9574 2108 Email [email protected] ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 116 Stirling Terrace Toodyay Bookings 9574 2165