News Archive
Local news is also available from the Singleton Argus, Cessnock Advertiser and Newcastle Herald websites and NSW farming news is available from The Land.
Wollombi Valley Online News is also available via an 
RSS News Feed. Read more about RSS Feeds.
Showing previous Wollombi Valley Online Local News stories from 21 to 621. For the current 20 stories see the main news page.
Council moves to protect wine region
Date: Wed 24-Feb-10
Author: ABC News
Cessnock council is developing a long-term strategy to protect wine growing areas in response to concerns about an increased number of housing developments.
Cessnock District Cricket report - 20 February 2010
Date: Wed 24-Feb-10
Author: Mark Bercini (The Advertiser)
4th Grade: Paxton (Laguna) 4/114 (D. Jackson 52, W. Kowaluk 15, D. Burgess 13no) defeated Greta/Branxton 112 (K. Wilkinson 47, S. Wilkinson 39, D. Jackson 5-9 off 8, A. Taylor 3-20 off 6, J. Bailey 2-26 off 7).
Birds in Backyards returns to Wollombi
Date: Tue 23-Feb-10
Author: Peter Firminger
Having built the Birds in Backyards website for Birds Australia (in partnership with the Australian Museum) in 2005, I am happy to announce that the website is back in the Webboy family of "Online Community" websites, being hosted on Webboy servers again.
Folk will flock to Broke
Date: Tue 23-Feb-10
Author: Singleton Argus
THE deadline for performer applications for this year's Folk in Broke festival has now passed and according to the event's artistic director Maureen O'Brien, 2010 has seen a record number of entries.
Paynes Crossing Road Closures
Date: Mon 22-Feb-10
Author: Cessnock City Council
Due to roadworks, Paynes Crossing Road, between Cunneens Bridge and Williams Bridge will be closed between the hours of 9:30am and 2:30pm Monday to Friday
Questions Without Notice - Cessnock Council 17 February 2010
Date: Sun 21-Feb-10
Author: Peter Firminger
Questions regarding the Wollombi Valley Working Party (Draft LEP) - "Councillor Olsen then asked how you get a fair and balanced group from Wollombi?"
New OON Coordinator WANTED
Date: Fri 19-Feb-10
Author: Sandy Thomas
The local monthly newsletter OON is looking for a new Coordinator.
Kincumber showcases Community Eco Garden on new site
Date: Fri 19-Feb-10
Author: auCD
The Kincumber community on the Central Coast of NSW is the latest to launch a CGDN website.
Greetings from Broke Fordwich Wine Tourism Association!
Date: Fri 19-Feb-10
Author: Mike Wilson
A couple of weeks ago I attended a meeting of the Wollombi Chamber of Commerce where the subject of better co-operation between the two communities was discussed.
ICAC finds council incompetence, not corruption, over Hunter hotel plan
Date: Fri 19-Feb-10
Author: Joanne McCarthy (The Herald)
THE Independent Commission Against Corruption has supported developer Duncan Hardie's claims that Cessnock City Council lacked "competence" in its handling of a hotel proposal at Pokolbin, but rejected allegations of corrupt conduct.
Development of Cessnock Community Plan
Date: Wed 17-Feb-10
Author: Alison Davey
Cessnock City Council is now embarking on a comprehensive program of community consultation and engagement activities in the development of Cessnock's Community Plan.
Folk in Broke Newsletter
Date: Wed 17-Feb-10
Author: Maureen O'Brien
Applications are completed, selections are made, grant applications are done, we're on our way!
Cessnock District Cricket report - 12 February 2010
Date: Wed 17-Feb-10
Author: Mark Bercini (The Advertiser)
Forth Grade: Paxton (Laguna) 2/89 (Denis Jackson 48no, Steve Sullivan 23no, D. Lambkin 2-24 off 7) defeated Supporters 84 (J. Lindner 29no, I. Wilson 17, T. Williams 4-19 off 9.2, S. Sullivan 2-18 off 7, G. Kelso 2-19 off 8).
Broke apology
Date: Tue 16-Feb-10
Author: Singleton Argus
GUESTS at Broke Public School showed their commitment to reconciliation while marking the second anniversary of the national apology on Friday. The school opened its doors to the local community welcoming both indigenous and non-indigenous visitors who paused to remember the stolen generation and who came to celebrate indigenous culture.
Bulga Coal Noise Education and Consultation
Date: Sat 13-Feb-10
Author: Stewart Ewen
The attached letter from Xstrata is very important as we have had a dramatic increase of noise from the mines over the last 2 years
From the Mayors Desk - 12 February 2010
Date: Fri 12-Feb-10
Author: Alison Davey
Come along and enjoy a night of stimulating entertainment and ideas for the future of Cessnock City on Tuesday 23 February at the Community Performing Arts Centre commencing at 7 pm. Everyone is welcome to attend and entry is free.
Landcare Newsletter February 2010
Date: Thu 11-Feb-10
Author: Graham Taylor
Please find attached the Wollombi Valley Landcare Newsletter for February 2010 in Adobe PDF format.
Mayoral Scholarships
Date: Thu 11-Feb-10
Author: Pauline Ross
Council has on offer 16 scholarships for students from the Cessnock LGA - please let your family and friends know of this opportunity to possibly gain $2,500 for one year to assist them with their finances during their studies.
WVAC Arts News February/March 2010
Date: Wed 10-Feb-10
Author: Bronnie Aliotti
Reflections - Harly Tait
Inside Art 2010
Poetry Afternoon Sunday 28th Feb (deferred)
Wollombi Valley Arts Council AGM
Cessnock District Cricket Competition pointscore
Date: Wed 10-Feb-10
Author: The Advertiser
Fourth Grade: Railway Hotel 102, Paxton 98, Supporters 79, Supporters Gold 78, Greta/Branxton 68, Peden's Hotel 63#, Bellbird 61*, Wentworth 49.
55 since '55
Date: Mon 08-Feb-10
Author: Peter Firminger
Jim Belshaw in Armidale commented on the Catchment News story about the 1955 flood in Maitland...
Planning Exemptions Harm Communities and the Environment
Date: Mon 08-Feb-10
Author: Cessnock Kurri Greens
'The announcement today by Premier Keneally that the exemption from planning laws of stimulus package projects could be extended to private developments including residential developments shows a lack of regard for local communities and the environment.' said Cessnock Greens Councillor James Ryan.
GAS WATCH 77 - AGL ENERGY - to drill more holes at Broke and Bulga
Date: Sun 07-Feb-10
Author: Hunter Valley Protection Alliance
AGL Energy has just received approval from the Department of Industry & Investment, Minerals to drill a further 8 core holes and stratigraphic holes on the properties it has bought at Spring Mountain, Broke, and Windermere at Bulga.
Catchment News - Issue 26 - February 2010
Date: Sun 07-Feb-10
Author: CMA
The newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA) for February 2010
AGL Broke and Bulga exploration Approval and Notice of Drilling
Date: Sat 06-Feb-10
Author: Graeme Gibson
AGL now have approval to drill 8 core holes and stratigraphic holes on the properties owned by them at Broke (Spring Mountain) and Bulga (Windermere).
Geodynamics Presentation
Date: Sat 06-Feb-10
Author: Graeme Gibson
Attached is a presentation by Geodynamics in relation to its proposed Hot Rocks exploration in the Bulga area.
Samaritans Neighbourhood News - February 2010
Date: Sat 06-Feb-10
Author: Samaritans
Includes details about Samaritans Services and Menopause the Musical on March 17
GWCA Supports Boobook Declaration
Date: Thu 04-Feb-10
Author: Peter Firminger
Biodiversity is life. Biodiversity is our life. 2010 is the International year of Biodiversity and GWCA joins with many other organisations in supporting the Boobook Declaration.
Animal Liberation says no to duck farm
Date: Tue 02-Feb-10
Author: Singleton Argus
AN animal liberation group has fears that the proposed Howes Valley Duck farm has the potential to increase the outbreak risk of bird flu in Australia.
Vines removed amid grape glut
Date: Tue 02-Feb-10
Author: ABC News
Hunter Valley wine grape producers have reacted to the industry glut by pulling out vines or leaving some fruit to rot.
AJ Lucas Will Have First Half Loss
Date: Tue 02-Feb-10
Author: Australasian Investment Review via Yahoo!7
Shares in AJ Lucas Group fell more than 10% after the company told shareholders to brace themselves for disappointing half-year results.
New England's environmental wars - introduction
Date: Tue 02-Feb-10
Author: Jim Belshaw
In the Wollombi Valley in New England's south, the draft decision by Cessnock City Council to change the zoning of 2500 hectares of Hunter farmland now under existing Rural 1A zoning to Environmental 3 to create a "buffer" for the Watagans National Park has created local outrage.
Miner up-beat about cutting carbon footprint
Date: Mon 01-Feb-10
Author: ABC News
Coal & Allied says a trial of its coal bed gas project has proved so successful it will be rolled out across other mines in the Hunter Valley within eight weeks.
In the restriction zone
Date: Sat 30-Jan-10
Author: Phil Thompson (The Land)
A proposal to rezone thousands of hectares of Hunter Valley farmland to make it more "environmental" could provide a precedent that would affect farmers throughout the State. Because of the move, the strip of private properties, which stretches from Mulbring to Wollombi, has been dragged into the NSW Government's efforts to establish a uniform set of land zones across the State.
Hunter grape season a scorcher
Date: Fri 29-Jan-10
Author: ABC News
Weather records for a Hunter Valley vineyard have revealed the current growing season has been one of the hottest for more than 50 years.
Extension of Garry Jones' Exhibition
Date: Thu 28-Jan-10
Author: Bronnie Aliotti
The Wollombi Valley Arts Council is happy to announce that the culminating exhibition of Garry Jones' residency at the Wollombi Cultural Centre has been extended "by popular demand".
Cessnock District Cricket Report - 23 January 2010
Date: Wed 27-Jan-10
Author: Mark Bercini (The Advertiser)
4th Grade: Railway Hotel 5/206 (M. Livingstone 59, A. Simon 48, D. Read 34no, S. Simon 25, B. Teasdale 15, G. Kelso 2-37 off 10) defeated Paxton (Laguna) 173 (T. Reeks 46, D. Jackson 44, S. Gibson 36, A. Taylor 18, S. Simon 5-28 off 9, D. Read 2-33 off 9, A. Simon 2-44 off 10).
From the Mayors Desk - 26 January 2010
Date: Tue 26-Jan-10
Author: Alison Davey
Welcome to 2010. Council has moved into the 2010 year with renewed spirit. In the coming months community input will be sought for the Strategic Plan for direction for Cessnock for the next 10 years. All Councils have been charged with developing these plans by 2012. Our Council embarked on the task early in 2009 and we hope to have the task completed this year for initial implementation in 2011-2012.
Geodynamics... BROKE VALLEY... Hunter Valley Protection Alliance
Date: Sun 24-Jan-10
Author: Stewart Ewen
There is a HVPA Committee meeting on Tuesday 2 February at 5.30pm at the Broke Hall that some people may wish to attend as observers.
As background Geodynamics have a grant from the Federal Government to explore the Bulga area to build a possible power station that "if" built would be the size of 2 football fields in area...
Push is on for uniform hotel trading hours in Lower Hunter
Date: Sat 23-Jan-10
Author: Donna Sharpe (The Herald)
Cessnock councillor Chris Parker and Maitland councillor Ray Fairweather have raised questions at council meetings this week about the feasibility of uniform operating hours for hotels in their local government areas.
New Online Emergency System Helps Mangrove Mountain
Date: Fri 22-Jan-10
Author: auCD
A group of volunteers in the Mangrove Mountain area in the hinterland of the Central Coast of New South Wales have pioneered a new online system to alert the community to potential threats, such as bushfires and severe weather.
Work if you want it
Date: Fri 22-Jan-10
Author: Kate Morris (Singleton Argus)
THE job market in Singleton is growing and unlike many regional communities the outlook is good.
Jobs advertised in The Singleton Argus almost doubled in number from December 2007 to the same month in 2009, with 115 positions vacant.
The Wybong action group has called for more enquiries following this months Mangoola fatality
Date: Thu 21-Jan-10
Author: 2NM Hunter Valley Newsroom
President of the Wybong action group John Shewin addressed council at its extraordinary meeting claiming that the community has not been consulted during the process...
Calling for nominations for a Wollombi Valley Working Party (Draft LEP)
Date: Wed 20-Jan-10
Author: Bernie Mortimore (CCC)
Cessnock Council invites interested community members to nominate to participate in a review of the land use capability, zoning and zone boundaries proposed for the Wollombi Valley in the draft Local Environmental Plan 2010.
Cessnock District Cricket Report - 16 January 2010
Date: Wed 20-Jan-10
Author: Mark Bercini (The Advertiser)
Paxton (Laguna) 104 (W. Kowaluk 22, T. Reekes 17, E. Smith 16, D. Fletcher 3-30 off 10, S. Price 3-12 off 8, L. Miller 2-16 off 8) defeated Peden's Hotel 96 (S. Price 24, C. Gray 23, D. Freebairn 20, S. Sullivan 5-30 off 10, T. Williams 3-34 off 10).
Rain a concern, but early harvest shows promise
Date: Wed 20-Jan-10
Author: Ben O'Neill (The Advertiser)
Two of the Hunter Valley's premier winemakers have shared their views with The Advertiser on the 2010 harvest currently taking place throughout the region.
Neil McGuigan of McGuigan Wines and Lindsay Whaling from Sandalyn Estate both believe recent rain will have a telling affect on the quality of wine produced in the area this year, with both hopeful the wet weather will now yield.
Singleton Community Website
Date: Tue 19-Jan-10
Author: 2NM Newsroom
Local groups in Singleton are being asked to get involved with the community website.
The Singleton Chamber of Commerce, which is developing a website for the Singleton community, are asking for local groups and organisations to make sure their information gets onto the site.
Rural Valley Comparisons
Date: Tue 19-Jan-10
Author: Paul Flemming
Comparison of recently rural-zoned valleys in the Muswellbrook and Goulburn-Mulwarra LGA's from Paul Flemming
Cessnock curfew sought to limit crimes
Date: Tue 19-Jan-10
Author: Donna Sharpe (The Herald)
CESSNOCK hotels could be the next to have late-night trading curfews if councillor Chris Parker's quest to curb alcohol-fuelled antisocial violence receives support.
Cr Parker will ask a council meeting tomorrow night if the same conditions of hotel trading in Newcastle can be introduced in the Cessnock Local Government Area.
Catherine Hill Bay battle pushes on
Date: Tue 19-Jan-10
Author: Damon Cronshaw (The Herald)
THE battle for Catherine Hill Bay has entered its ninth year, with residents pushing for the number of new houses planned for the seaside heritage town to be cut from 822 to 300.
Buoyed by a court victory last September, residents will seek to renegotiate development plans.
Xstrata to lock out striking Newcastle workers
Date: Tue 19-Jan-10
Author: Martin Dinneen (The Herald)
THE dispute between coal giant Xstrata and workers at the Bulga open-cut mine appears set to escalate with the company planning to lock out workers for 24 hours from 7am today.
About 250 workers returned from a 49-hour strike at 8pm yesterday but will be locked out this morning.
LEP Interviews on 2GB
Date: Mon 18-Jan-10
Author: LEP Action Group
Ben Fordham (filling in for Ray Hadley) conducted 2 interviews on 15-Jan-2010 regarding the Cessnock LEP. One with Steve Annis-Brown and the other with Darryl Fitzgerald.
Hunter air quality monitoring criticised
Date: Mon 18-Jan-10
Author: Michelle Harris (The Herald)
MOST air-quality monitoring sites in a new network planned for the Upper Hunter will not identify levels of potentially harmful very fine dust particles because there is no national measuring standard, the State Government says.
Cricket Report - Saturday 16th January 2010
Date: Sun 17-Jan-10
Author: Wojt Kowaluk
Laguna Village People managed to hold out and defeat Pedens Hotel in a nail biting finish at the Basin Ground in Cessnock. At the drinks break Pedens were 3 down for 64 runs chasing Laguna's 104 /10. Requiring 41 runs for victory, 7 wickets in hand and 20 overs to be bowled, it would take something of a miracle to save the game for Laguna.
Catchment News - Issue 25 - January 2010
Date: Sat 16-Jan-10
Author: CMA
The January edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
Hunter's coal industry ravages landscape
Date: Sat 16-Jan-10
Author: Matthew Kelly and Melissa Lyons (The Herald)
THE shocking environmental effect of the region's multibillion-dollar coal industry can only be fully appreciated from the air. A satellite image taken from GoogleMaps shows the extent of the scarring between Singleton and Muswellbrook in the wake of insatiable demand for the region's coal.
Hunter coal leads to moon and back
Date: Sat 16-Jan-10
Author: Melissa Lyons (The Herald)
MORE than one billion tonnes of raw coal have been stripped from the Hunter in the past decade, handing the State Government a $3.1 billion silver lining. Stacked in cubic metres, that's enough coal to wrap around the Earth's equator 27.7 times.
Submissions for duck farm at Howes Valley close Monday
Date: Fri 15-Jan-10
Author: Sarah Lee (Singleton Argus)
SUBMISSIONS for the proposed Howes Valley duck farm close on Monday.
The Singleton Argus yesterday understands several submissions have been received by council objecting to the live duck egg production site proposed for lot 1254, 5756 Putty Road.
Cockfighter Country now has community website
Date: Fri 15-Jan-10
Author: auCD
The new Broke "Cockfigher Country" community website is now online : www.broke.nsw.au
After the success of the Wollombi community website within the region, Broke locals have decided to jump onto the CGDN bandwagon.
The Foggy Mountain Jam is back for 2010!
Date: Thu 14-Jan-10
Author: Veronica Chambers
To all our friends and music fans! We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and here's to a good year ahead.
Website for Singleton
Date: Wed 13-Jan-10
Author: 2NM Hunter Valley Newsroom
The Singleton Chamber of Commerce recently announced they had secured a domain name for a Gateway to Singleton website. The group has also secured help from Singleton high school students to help construct the website.
Weekend cricket teams - 16 January 2010
Date: Wed 13-Jan-10
Author: The Advertiser
No details given for Paxton (Laguna)...
Cessnock District Cricket Report - 9 January 2010
Date: Wed 13-Jan-10
Author: Mark Bercini (The Advertiser)
4th Grade: Paxton (Laguna) 5/249 (G. Kelso 61, D. Jackson 61, B. Stats 52, J. Bailey 23no, S. Gibson 21, P. Stacey 2-37 off 7) defeated Supporters Gold (85 (S. Knott 22, R. Stapleford 20no, J. Bailey 3-21 off 10, B. Craig 2-12 off 3).
Bid to open 12,000-bird Singleton duck farm
Date: Wed 13-Jan-10
Author: Donna Sharpe (The Herald)
A DUCK farm with more than 12,000 birds and believed to be the first of its kind for the region, could soon be built near Singleton.
Singleton Shire Council will consider an application by Sydney man Ray Shepherd for the farm that would focus on fertile egg production on a 188 hectare property at Howes Valley.
Hunter Valley calls for a Northern NSW New State
Date: Tue 12-Jan-10
Author: Jim Belshaw
Peter Firminger wrote in a comment on New England Story - new states, archives and the preservation of our past...
Cessnock City councillor to stay on despite fines
Date: Tue 12-Jan-10
Author: Julieanne Strachan (The Herald)
CESSNOCK City Council has taken one of its own councillors to court, hitting him and his company with $205,900 in penalties.
Cr Allan McCudden has vowed to stay on as a councillor, despite being prosecuted by the council at the Land and Environment Court for not complying with an asbestos clean-up notice and an order to supply information.
St Huberts Island community website
Date: Mon 11-Jan-10
Author: auCD
The St Huberts Island community on the Central Coast is the latest to launch their community website: sthubertsisland.nsw.au
Hunter farmers welcome jump in cattle prices
Date: Mon 11-Jan-10
Author: Tess Campbell (The Herald)
HUNTER cattle farmers have been rewarded for their stoic perseverance with a jump in prices by up to 50 cents a kilogram at Maitland's first cattle auction of the year. For an industry in dire straits less than a month ago, there is a new optimism thanks to some much-needed rain.
Media Release - Broke Community Website Launches
Date: Sun 10-Jan-10
Author: Peter Firminger
The new Broke NSW Community Website "Cockfighter Country" (broke.nsw.au) was recently launched without ceremony.
WVAC Arts News January/February 2010
Date: Sun 10-Jan-10
Author: Bronnie Aliotti
GARRY JONES Artist in Residence
Poetry Afternoon Sunday 28th Feb
Wollombi Valley Arts Council AGM
2010 WCC Booking Enquiries
Pick of the bunch
Date: Fri 08-Jan-10
Author: Singleton Argus
HARVEST has not started this early since 1981. Margan Wines winemaker and managing director Andrew Margan said the last time he remembers starting to pick grapes within the first week of a year was over 29 years ago. The weather is the reason. "We are ruled by the weather," he explained.
Weekend cricket teams - 9 January 2010
Date: Wed 06-Jan-10
Author: The Advertiser
Supporters Gold Fourth Grade to play Paxton (Laguna) at Baddeley 6 on January 9.
Green start to 2010
Date: Tue 05-Jan-10
Author: Rachel Oldknow (Singleton Argus)
Over the past seven days, Singleton has had 39 mm, Jerrys Plains 51 mm, Broke 39.8mm and Reedy Creek recording 39 mm. Elderslie has had 63.2mm with a whopping 45 mm falling on Sunday while Milbrodale has had 62.2 mm of rain, 34 mm also falling on Sunday, according to the Bureau.
Spencer's resolve 'stronger than ever'
Date: Tue 05-Jan-10
Author: Farm Online
THE resolve of hunger-striking farmer Peter Spencer is stronger than ever this morning, following yesterday's show of support by hundreds of land holders at a protest at Parliament House.
Spencer hunger strike drives wedge into Coalition
Date: Tue 05-Jan-10
Author: Dan Harrison & Ben Cubby (The Land)
NSW farmer Peter Spencer hunger strike in protest against land-clearing laws has renewed tensions between Liberal and National parties. Protesters cheered the Nationals senator Barnaby Joyce and heckled the Liberal senator Bill Heffernan yesterday as they gathered outside Parliament House in support of the farmer. [Video]
Region soaking up the good news
Date: Mon 04-Jan-10
Author: Martin Dinneen (The Herald)
HUNTER holidaymakers may have cursed it but many farmers across the region are blessing the consistent rain that has fallen this past week, particularly over the weekend. The coast and the valley received heavy falls on Saturday night and yesterday morning with Singleton soaking up 22 millimetres and Scone 27.2 millimetres in the 24 hours to 9am yesterday.
Peter Spencer - Attempts to stop Cooee March by NSW Govt
Date: Sun 03-Jan-10
Author: Peter McCloy
People are planning to get to Canberra behind Old Parliament House on Monday at 10.30am to march in support of Peter Spencers protest saying Australia is not a free country any more and we want a royal commission into the injustices concerning the Kyoto protocol & property rights.
Peter Spencer
Date: Thu 31-Dec-09
Author: Peter McCloy
Having read as many of the facts as seem to be available regarding the hunger strike of Peter Spencer, I agree totally with the following statement contained in an article by Justin Jefferson...
Jets urged to move to Cessnock
Date: Thu 31-Dec-09
Author: Tess Campbell (The Herald)
AN AUDACIOUS bid to move the Newcastle Jets to Cessnock's Baddeley Park has gained momentum despite getting a bucket of cold water from the football club and A-League officials.
Cessnock councillor Bob Pynsent said the Jets should make Cessnock sportsground their new home ground before EnergyAustralia Stadium's controversial playing surface caused more injury.
Broke and Wollombi Update
Date: Wed 30-Dec-09
Author: Peter Firminger
A new website for Broke
Romeo and Juliet at Laguna
Fireworks at Wollombi
Beyond Broke harvest hurt by hail
Date: Wed 30-Dec-09
Author: Tess Campbell (The Herald)
BRUISED fruit and tattered foliage is all that remains of a Broke vineyard's once bulging vines after a hailstorm ripped through the region last week.
Robert Kennedy, of Beyond Broke vineyard, is assessing the fallout of last Tuesday's hailstorm with the full extent of the damage to his $300,000 crop not known until the January harvest begins.
Cessnock District Cricket Report - 19 December 2009
Date: Wed 30-Dec-09
Author: Mark Bercini (The Advertiser)
4th Grade: Paxton (Laguna) 7/113 (D. Jackson 31, C. Howe 25, A. Taylor 23no, G. Kelso 16, N. Seirs 3-17 off 10, P. McDonald 2-36 off 9) defeated Bellbird 7/101 (S. O'Hearn 28, J. Hlad 19, N. Seirs 16, J. Millington 15, T. Williams 4-26 off 10, E. Smith 2-23 off 5).
No safe place
Date: Thu 24-Dec-09
Author: Rachel Oldknow (Singleton Argus)
RESIDENTS living in five of Singleton's rural districts have no safe place under the Neighbourhood Safe Place (NSP) program to escape a bush fire. A concept evolved out of the "Black Saturday" bush fire in Victoria, the NSP program aims to protect human life during the immediate threat of a bush fire.
Hunter coal - huge cost to the community
Date: Wed 23-Dec-09
Author: 2NM Newsroom
The greens have claimed that the Government's big benefit from Hunter coal comes at a huge cost to the community
Mannering Park hope their new site will encourage a more inclusive community
Date: Tue 22-Dec-09
Author: auCD
Mannering Park is a small township located on an isolated peninsular on the southern shores of Lake Macquarie.
Gas Watch 76
Date: Tue 22-Dec-09
Author: Hunter Valley Protection Alliance
AGL ENERGY - necessary corrections to recent media releases in Cockfighter news.
Watching out for salvinia over summer
Date: Mon 21-Dec-09
Author: Phoebe Trongchittham
If you think you have Salvinia on your dam or in your local waterway please contact your local Council weeds officer immediately.
Cessnock District Cricket Report - 12 December 2009
Date: Wed 16-Dec-09
Author: Mark Bercini (The Advertiser)
4th Grade: Paxton (Laguna) 3/119 (G. Kelso 35, D. Jackson 23, E. Smith 18no, A. Taylor 17no, D. Burgess 15) defeated Bellbird 8/112 (S. O'Hearn 52, N. Seirs 16, J. Wadi 15, E. Smith 3-23 off 10, A. Taylor 2-17 off 5).
Christmas present for Wollombi
Date: Wed 16-Dec-09
Author: Peter Firminger
Paul Adams from the Wollombi Valley Progress Association - Cunneens Bridge Action Group called me this morning with some very good news.
AGL Hunter Activities
Date: Mon 14-Dec-09
Author: Jenny Thompson & Amanda Albury
RE: Major Development AGL Gas Part 3A, taking The Bucketts Way Valley Area, and removing this beautiful valley area as we know it, destroying aquifers, creeks, rivers etc.
Cessnock turbines put wind up old energy providers
Date: Mon 14-Dec-09
Author: Tess Campbell (The Herald)
CESSNOCK residents could earn thousands of dollars by switching to green power and the city council is helping to ease the way. Cessnock City Council has abolished the need to submit a development application before installing a wind turbine on a rural property.
From the Far End of the Council Table - 13 December 2009
Date: Sun 13-Dec-09
Author: Councillor James Ryan
Supermarkets all over the place - What was supposed to be the last meeting of the year was also one of the longest - going from 6-30pm till 10-30.
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 11 December 2009
Date: Fri 11-Dec-09
Author: Alison Davey
Brian and I wish one and all a very blessed festive season and a healthy and safe New Year.
Claytons Environmental Protection Under E3
Date: Thu 10-Dec-09
Author: Paul Flemming
It wasn't till I browsed a Department of Planning document headed LEP practice note PN 09-002. Environment Protection Zones, issued in April 2009, that the penny dropped. We'd all so far missed the "bleedin' obvious"
WVAC Arts News December 2009/January 2010
Date: Thu 10-Dec-09
Author: Bronnie Aliotti
Merry Christmas
Artist in Residence - Garry Jones
Catchment News - Issue 24 - December 2009
Date: Thu 10-Dec-09
Author: CMA
The December edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
The Wanaruah Nation
Date: Wed 09-Dec-09
Author: 2NM Newsroom
The Wanuruah nation has called together a meeting of all aboriginal stakeholders to discuss what they have called a lack of respect shown to them in regard to planning matters.
Civil wedding ceremonies on the rise
Date: Wed 09-Dec-09
Author: Krystal Sellars (The Advertiser)
Canon Sonia Roulston, of the Anglican Parish of Cessnock/Wollombi said three-quarters of its weddings in 2009 were non-local couples. And, of these 40 weddings, 21 were held off-site at vineyard venues or chapels, with the remainder at the Cessnock, Wollombi and Ellalong churches.
Weekend cricket teams: 12 December 2009
Date: Wed 09-Dec-09
Author: The Advertiser
4th Grade: Paxton (Laguna) V Bellbird Workers at Carmichael 2 (not mentioned in the story)
Cessnock District Cricket Report - 5 December 2009
Date: Wed 09-Dec-09
Author: Mark Bercini (The Advertiser)
4th Grade: Paxton (Laguna) 6/162 (Tim Weeks 58, Craig Howe 39no, Steve Sullivan 22, Sam Apthorpe 2-22 off 8, Jamie Spence 2-21 off 10) defeated Wentworth 3/157 (Sam Apthorpe 79, D. Bailey 56, Brendan Stats 3-22 off 10).
Hard decisions must be made if they want the big bucks
Date: Mon 07-Dec-09
Author: Adele Ferguson (SMH)
For the past three years the coal seam gas industry has been the new god of energy, promising big profits, green power and a gateway to aligning Australian gas prices with the more lucrative global market... But now the clock is ticking for the industry to turn rhetoric into reality and start making some financial investment decisions (FIDs).
Greetings from Mount Broke Wines
Date: Sat 05-Dec-09
Author: Mike Wilson
On Sunday 13th December Mount Broke Wines in Adams Peak Road, Broke will be hosting a get-together and very informal barbecue from about 4pm for locals to have a bite to eat, a drink and a chat. I would love some of our near neighbours in Wollombi to join us.
Greens Information Sessions on Draft Cessnock LEP (Local Environment Plan)
Date: Fri 04-Dec-09
Author: Tim Plater
Cessnock-Kurri Greens will hold two information sessions on the Draft LEP for the Cessnock Local Government Area.
Wollombi Valley Update - 3 December 2009
Date: Thu 03-Dec-09
Author: Peter Firminger
Rather than lead with the comments, I'll give you the event list first and flag that there are responses from Paul Flemming and Bronwyn Duncan to my Cunneens Bridge post at the end of this email - along with some Wollombi Valley Christmas Specials and a team photo...
Wollombi LEP Meeting Video
Date: Thu 03-Dec-09
Author: Peter Firminger
The video of the meeting at Wollombi Hall on 12 November 2009 with Darryl Fitzgerald
Landcare Newsletter December 2009
Date: Thu 03-Dec-09
Author: Graham Taylor
Please find attached the Wollombi Valley Landcare Newsletter for December 2009 in Adobe PDF format.
Multi-million dollar boost for Cessnock City schools off and running
Date: Wed 02-Dec-09
Author: The Advertiser
The projects and the schools where the work will take place include:
Laguna, new library, $250,000.
Millfield, new library, $870,000.
Wollombi, new COLA, $140,000 and administration upgrade, $110,000.
Weekend cricket teams 5 and 6 December 2009
Date: Wed 02-Dec-09
Author: The Advertiser
Fourth grade: Wentworth Hotel to play Paxton (Laguna) at Kearsley on Saturday.
Cessnock District Cricket Report - 28-29 November 2009
Date: Wed 02-Dec-09
Author: Mark Bercini (The Advertiser)
4th Grade: Wentworth 7/200 (S. Morley 102, S. Apthorpe 29, S. Parkinson 15no, J. Bailey 3-32 off 10, T. Williams 2-64 off 10) defeated Paxton (Laguna) 7/193 (E. Smith 63, W. Kowaluk 39, T. Williams 26, K. Barnett 20no, D. Bailey 2-51 off 8, S. Parkinson 2-34 off 7).
Gas Watch 75 - AGL has nowhere to go, unless we let them in
Date: Wed 02-Dec-09
Author: Hunter Valley Protection Alliance
A map has been produced by the Broke Bulga Community Consultative Committee. The map is of the Broke and Bulga areas which AGL Energy wants to turn into a gas field.
Upgrade to Paxton Waste Water Treatment Works
Date: Sun 29-Nov-09
Author: Steve Meadows - COCCI
Below is a notice that will be distributed to residents adjoining Congewai Creek/ Wollombi Brook on the Wollombi Rd up to Cedar Creek and along Mt View Rd/Lewis Lane.
Kind regards
Greg Lewis
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 27 November 2009
Date: Fri 27-Nov-09
Author: Alison Davey
As always it was a pleasure to take in the natural setting that the residents of Wollombi enjoy all year round. Guest Speaker Mr Michael Noyce enthralled the audience of nearly 50 guests with a presentation on the History of Wollombi.
Cessnock cricket competition produces close results in extreme heat
Date: Wed 25-Nov-09
Author: The Advertiser
Paxton 4th Grade (Laguna): 3/100 (W. Kowaluk 25no, A. Taylor 19, S. Gibson 16, K. Barnett 13no, T. Hart 2-28 off 7) defeated Greta/Branxton 88 (S. Wilkinson 27, K. Wilkinson 16, T. Priest 15, J. Bailey 6-28 off 10, T. Williams 2-16 off 9).
Wollombi Valley update - 20 November 2009
Date: Fri 20-Nov-09
Author: Peter Firminger
LEP
Cuneens Bridge
WVAC Arts News November/December 2009
Date: Wed 18-Nov-09
Author: Bronnie Aliotti
Flora & Fauna
Fiona Bateman's Summer Exhibition
Artist in Residence - Garry Jones
Fifth century of the Cessnock cricket season
Date: Wed 18-Nov-09
Author: The Advertiser
4th Grade: Paxton (Laguna) 1/45 (K. Reilly 25, A. Taylor 20) defeated Supporters 39 (S. Hooker-Connell 18, J. Bailey 3-18 off 5, K. Reilly 3-11 off 6).
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 13 November 2009
Date: Fri 13-Nov-09
Author: Alison Davey
Our Tidy Town Committees who participated in the recent Tidy Towns Awards were very successful taking out seven awards.
Cricket returns to Laguna
Date: Wed 11-Nov-09
Author: The Advertiser
Cricket returned to one of the city's furtherest boundaries last weekend when Paxton played Railway Hotel at Laguna. The Paxton fourth grade side is made up mostly of players from Laguna and Wollombi and the ground is situated on privately-owned land.
Local communities clean up at NSW Tidy Towns Awards
Date: Wed 11-Nov-09
Author: The Advertiser
The Cessnock Local Government Area (LGA) collected a number of awards at the recent NSW Annual Tidy Towns Awards Presentation held in Tamworth. The city was represented by 17 proud Tidy Towns Committee representatives from Cessnock, Kurri Kurri, Greta and Wollombi Tidy Town Committees.
Catchment News - Issue 23 - November 2009
Date: Tue 10-Nov-09
Author: CMA
The November edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
Rescue - Spring 2009
Date: Mon 09-Nov-09
Author: WRHS
The newsletter of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service - In this issue: Sam and Milo's adventure - It's ball season - Helping to save babies - Fisherman overboard - Riding for Rescue and Research
Cessnock seeks new strategy after Huntlee failure
Date: Thu 05-Nov-09
Author: Matt Carr (The Herald)
CESSNOCK Council will revisit a citywide planning strategy after the Huntlee development stalled. Cr Neil Gorman said that by rushing the citywide plan the council ran the risk of the "whole LEP falling over". Cr James Ryan, who lodged last night's rescission motion, said the problem would affect the entire Cessnock area.
Free Range Egg Policy for Cessnock Council
Date: Wed 04-Nov-09
Author: Cessnock-Kurri Greens
Greens Councillor Chris Parker successfully moved at tonight's Council meeting, that Cessnock Council move to a policy of sourcing free range eggs in any future Council catering contracts. Councillor Parker showed a video of some of the appalling conditions that caged chickens suffer from to support his motion.
Council in a flap over eggs
Date: Wed 04-Nov-09
Author: Briony Snedden (Maitland Mercury)
Cessnock City Council has become broody about eggs. Chris Parker will put a free ranging idea to tonight's meeting that the council outlaw caged eggs in its catering, and encourage other businesses to do the same.
Cessnock District Cricket report
Date: Wed 04-Nov-09
Author: The Advertiser
Paxton 4/60 (Brendan Stats 38no, A. Sadler 2-13 off 6, D. Fletcher 2-30 off 8) defeated Peden's Hotel 56 (D. Fletcher 20, B. Stats 4-14 off 6, J. Bailey 2-15 off 5, K. Reilly 2-17 off 4.2, B. Craig 2-7 off 3).
Eighty riders vie for top trophies
Date: Fri 30-Oct-09
Author: Singleton Argus
THE Singleton Pony Club Show Jumping Championships were contested under hot conditions at Singleton Showground at the weekend.
Eighty riders competed over the two days in five different events.
Clubs in the competition were Singleton, Scone, Denman, Aberdeen, Murrurundi, Merriwa, Mt Sugarloaf, Mangrove Mountain, Paterson River, Maitland, Camden Haven, Tall Timbers, Toronto, Oxley Island, Cooranbong and Wollombi Valley.
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 30 October 2009
Date: Fri 30-Oct-09
Author: Alison Davey
Cessnock Community Performing Arts Centre won top honours in the 2009 Lower Hunter Urban Design Awards, announced on Friday 23 October during a gala dinner at the Mercure Resort, Hunter Valley Gardens.
Cessnock District Cricket report
Date: Wed 28-Oct-09
Author: The Advertiser
4th Grade: Paxton (Laguna) 8/147 (Jack Bailey 26no, Ken Barnett 24no, Stuart Gibson 20, W. Kowaluk 16, Denis Jackson 14, Steve Tyne 4-26 off 10, Alan Sadler 2-38 off 9, Craig Grey 2-31 off 8) defeated Peden's Hotel 142 (Steve Tyne 37no, Dean Freebairn 23, Ben Reed 17, Mick Bullen 17, Dane Fletcher 14, Jack Bailey 4-35 off 10, Alan Taylor 2-15 off 4, W. Kowaluk 2-8 off 1.5)
Game and Feral Animal Control Amendment Bill
Date: Wed 28-Oct-09
Author: Peter Firminger
A letter to Nathan Rees, John Robertson, Ian Macdonald and Kerry Hickey
Please phone and email in the next 12 hours to stop the Shooters
Date: Wed 28-Oct-09
Author: Nature Conservation Council of NSW
Email from the Nature Conservation Council of NSW
Major heritage grants for Cessnock City projects
Date: Wed 28-Oct-09
Author: The Advertiser
Cessnock Local Government area projects will receive about $800,000 of the Australian Government investment of $1,293,759 for conservation projects in and around the Hunter Electorate. Wollombi Courthouse will receive $31,250 and the Great North Road Conservation, Ramsay's Leap and Thompson's Bridge at Bucketty/Laguna will receive $779,000.
Sculpture in the Vineyards launch
Date: Wed 28-Oct-09
Author: The Advertiser
The Wollombi Valley Wine Trail landscape will soon start to take on its now unique look at this time of the year with the launch of Sculpture in the Vineyards.
Voiceless takes aim at Shooters' Party
Date: Tue 27-Oct-09
Author: Voicless: the animal protection institute
Brian Sherman AM, Director of Voiceless, the animal protection institute, today called upon the NSW Government to reject a deal with the Shooters' Party which would open up 13 national parks to recreational hunters in return for ongoing support in the upper house.
Union orders rangers to defy hunting in parks
Date: Mon 26-Oct-09
Author: Louise Hall (SMH)
UNION bosses have pledged to fight any deal the Rees Government negotiates with the Shooters' Party that would allow the hunting of feral animals in national parks.
Small axe fells big timber
Date: Sat 24-Oct-09
Author: Matthew Moore (SMH)
When grassroots activism knocks over a deal at the top end of town, others look over their shoulders, writes Matthew Moore.
Wollombi Valley Country Fair - Media Release
Date: Thu 22-Oct-09
Author: Peter Firminger
Taste the History as Wollombi Valley comes alive on the 7th and 8th of November with the inaugural Wollombi Valley Country Fair.
Government deal to open national parks to shooters
Date: Wed 21-Oct-09
Author: Erik Jensen (SMH)
Negotiations on the bill had broken down with the Premier's chief of staff, Graeme Wedderburn - who Mr Brown described as ''tits on a bull'' - but resumed in September, less than a week after John Robertson took over the environment portfolio. The Treasurer, Eric Roozendaal, one of Mr Robertson's factional allies, took part in negotiations.
Weekend cricket teams
Date: Wed 21-Oct-09
Author: The Advertiser
Teams lists
More Hunter land deals in jeopardy
Date: Wed 21-Oct-09
Author: Julieanne Strachan (The Herald)
THE NSW Government's planning nightmare has deepened, with revelations that four more large-scale Hunter developments could be jeopardised by land swap deals with developers.
New website at the Copa - Copacabana NSW
Date: Tue 20-Oct-09
Author: auCD
The Copacabana community celebrated the launch of their new community website last week, with Chris Holstein, Mayor of the City of Gosford inaugurating the new site
No contest. Huntlee overturned
Date: Mon 19-Oct-09
Author: Newcastle on Hunter
Residents of Cessnock, Branxton and North Rothbury are celebrating today after the NSW Land and Environment Court overturned the States biggest residential development, Huntlee New Town, which had been approved by the Planning Minister in February 2009.
Heritage funding announced
Date: Fri 16-Oct-09
Author: Newcastle on Hunter
The Sandstone Wall Restoration Project at Merriwa will receive $53,823, The Singleton Showground Pavilion Project will receive $56,591, St Mary's Building Stabilisation Project in Maitland will receive $183,095, Wollombi Courthouse will receive $31,250, Maitland Gaol will receive $190,000 and the Great North Road Conservation - Ramsay's Leap and Thompson's Bridge at Bucketty/Laguna will receive $779,000.
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 16 May 2009
Date: Fri 16-Oct-09
Author: Alison Davey
Congratulations to the Tidy Town Committees from Cessnock, Kurri Kurri and Wollombi as finalists for the Keep Australia Beautiful Tidy Towns Communities Awards... On Thursday 1 October I attended and presented to Laguna Public School Certificates and Lapel Pins...
Cessnock cricket season underway
Date: Thu 15-Oct-09
Author: The Advertiser
Paxton Wombats 4/130 (S. Sullivan 35, D. Jackson 20, S. Gibson 16 ret hurt, A. Taylor 14no, T. Goldman 3-19 off 9) defeated Supporters Gold 121 (J. McCord 42, T. Goldman 36, C. Goldman 13, T. Williams 4-25 off 8, K. Riley 3-45 off 10, T. Jackson 2-17 off 5).
Community FireWise meeting presentation and links
Date: Sun 11-Oct-09
Author: Peter Firminger
Presentation documents and links mentioned in the Community FireWise meeting held at Laguna Hall on 11 October 2009.
WVAC Arts News Oct/Nov 2009
Date: Sat 10-Oct-09
Author: Bronnie Aliotti
WHERE TWO ARTS MEET Sue Linton & Shane Lennard
PAINTINGS & MOSAICS by Kaye Lovie & Mary Francis
FLORA & FAUNA by Catherine Craig, Michelle Loadsman. Penny Walton, Juliet Ackery and Carolyn Peddie
2009 EMERGING ARTISTS AWARDS
Catchment News - Issue 22 - October 2009
Date: Sat 10-Oct-09
Author: CMA
The October edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
Schedule for the Mangrove Mountain Country Fair
Date: Wed 07-Oct-09
Author: On Mangrove Mountain
The competition schedule for the 2009 fair
A perfect end to a great weekend in Wollombi
Date: Mon 05-Oct-09
Author: Peter Firminger
Double rainbow over St John's at the end of the Labour Day long weekend
Two years of Wollombi Valley Online
Date: Sun 04-Oct-09
Author: Peter Firminger
And they (Wollombi Chamber Executive) said it wouldn't last...
2009 Emerging Artists Awards presented last night
Date: Sat 03-Oct-09
Author: Peter Firminger
The awards were judged and presented by Lisa Slade and Bridget Nicholson at the Old Fire Shed Gallery - Wollombi Cultural Centre
New Coalition of Hunter Community Groups Launches
Date: Fri 02-Oct-09
Author: The Fair Go Coalition
A Fair Go for the Hunter Community Coalition consists of community groups whose objective is to halt the wave of bad planning by this NSW Government in order to get the best results for the Hunter community.
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 2 October 2009
Date: Fri 02-Oct-09
Author: Alison Davey
Congratulations to John Albury APM, John is the retired Chief Inspector of Cessnock, and he recently received the NSW Police Medal with a 40 year clasp.
Save the Net... and democracy as we know it
Date: Wed 23-Sep-09
Author: Peter Firminger
Did you know the Government is proposing an internet censorship scheme that goes further than any other democracy in the world? That's why I'm one of over 100,000 Australians who have signed the petition to Save the Net. Will you join me?
Chamber embarking on new marketing plan
Date: Wed 23-Sep-09
Author: The Advertiser
Cessnock Wine Country Chamber of Commerce will soon launch the new Cessnock Business and Marketing Plan. Developed by the chamber in partnership with Cessnock City Council the plan will drive the chamber's activities over the next three years.
From the Far End of the Council Table - 20 September 2009
Date: Sun 20-Sep-09
Author: Councillor James Ryan
Development and Rugby league
Well what a mix of things was last weeks Council meeting. After a lot of complaints from residents Councillor Smith and I lodged a motion calling for Council to communicate more effectively with residents who put in a Development Application.
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 18 September 2009
Date: Fri 18-Sep-09
Author: Alison Davey
Congratulations to 10 year old Luca Hawkins from Wollombi Public School who received a brand new iPod. Students from around the country entered the competition every time they completed a schoolwork tutoring session using YourTutor.
When it comes to printer cartridge recycling, Australians have an inkling!
Date: Wed 16-Sep-09
Author: Michelle Cook (Planet Ark)
'Cartridges 4 Planet Ark' celebrates 10 million returns
Resident's Survey
Date: Wed 16-Sep-09
Author: Sandy Thomas
The Wollombi Valley Chamber of Commerce is conducting its first Annual Resident's Survey to gain a greater understanding of community views and to help identify opportunities for improvement to make Wollombi Valley an even better place to live and work. The survey results will be presented to the community at the November Wollombi Progress Association meeting.
Mangrove Mountain Country Fair art category theme
Date: Sat 12-Sep-09
Author: On Mangrove Mountain
'Dear me', is the theme for the Special Open Art category for the Country Fair in 2009. (Potholes last year)
Catchment News - Issue 21 - September 2009
Date: Thu 10-Sep-09
Author: CMA
The September edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
Gas Watch 74 - AGL fails regulatory obligations.
Date: Wed 09-Sep-09
Author: Hunter Valley Protection Alliance
AGL 'forced electricity prices higher' - says SMH.
AGL accused of "price gouging" by the ACCC - says the ABC.
Most needy residents have been the victims of appalling bungling by AGL - says the Herald Sun.
Laguna Public School wins Mayoral Academic Challenge
Date: Wed 09-Sep-09
Author: Krystal Sellars (The Advertiser)
For the first time in its four-year history, one of Cessnock City's smaller schools has taken out the Mayoral Academic Challenge.
Wollombi icon in the crosshairs
Date: Tue 08-Sep-09
Author: Peter Firminger
The Shooters party introduced the Game and Feral Animal Control Amendment Bill to NSW Parliament in June which proposes to open up National Parks to recreational shooters and will list 26 native species to the animals licensed shooters can kill for kicks including Wollombi's iconic Purple Swamphen and other frequent local birds such as the Australian White Ibis and Black Swan.
Stop the Shooters Games - Rally
Date: Tue 08-Sep-09
Author: Peter Firminger
- there's no such thing as conservation hunting -
Cessnock Draft LEP Feedback
Date: Mon 07-Sep-09
Author: Peter Firminger
To assist in the preparation of a group submission to the exhibition of the Draft LEP 2009 Wollombi Valley Progress Association would appreciate your feedback to basic issues of concern contained in the Draft Plan.
From the Far End of the Council Table - 6 September 2009
Date: Sun 06-Sep-09
Author: Councillor James Ryan
What do Catherine Hill Bay and Cessnock have in common? I'll get to that question in a minute. There is a very interesting public debate happening at the moment. You can't help but think the Labor Party is conducting a concerted campaign to get rid of Cessnock Council.
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 4 September 2009
Date: Fri 04-Sep-09
Author: Alison Davey
Congratulations to the winners of the 2009 Mayoral Academic Challenge. The academic brilliance of our students is amazing. I congratulate every school who participated and to the schools who were unable to participate due to other commitments for their contribution to education our young people.
Taste the History in Wollombi Village
Date: Thu 03-Sep-09
Author: Peter Firminger
On the 7th and 8th of November, historic Wollombi village will come alive with the inaugural Wollombi Valley Country Fair.
Hickey slams Cessnock council
Date: Thu 03-Sep-09
Author: Julieanne Strachan (The Herald)
CESSNOCK MP Kerry Hickey has taken aim at his local council in NSW Parliament, accusing it of being the second slowest in the state at assessing projects valued between $5 million and $20 million.
Animal campaigners want Cessnock rodeo ban
Date: Thu 03-Sep-09
Author: Gabriel Wingate-Pearce (Herald)
Animal rights campaigners will lobby Cessnock City Council to become the first local council in NSW to ban rodeos.
Animal Liberation NSW executive director Mark Pearson will present footage of Australian rodeos, including images he says have led to prosecutions, to councillors.
FIRE PERMITS REQUIRED
Date: Tue 01-Sep-09
Author: RFS
1 September 2009 to 31 March 2010
Who do you call?
Your local BFB Fire Permit Officer...
Crunch time for internet censorship
Date: Fri 28-Aug-09
Author: Get Up!
A decision on the Government's internet censorship filter could be just weeks away. It's crunch time for our campaign.
From the Far End of the Council Table - 23 August 2009
Date: Sun 23-Aug-09
Author: Councillor James Ryan
Disneyland In Cessnock?
The issue of what is good development in the Vineyards took another step forwards or backwards, depending on your point of view, at last weeks Council meeting.
Fleetwood Mac Unleashed in the Hunter Valley
Date: Fri 21-Aug-09
Author: Peter Firminger
Fleetwood Mac will be at Hope Estate in the Hunter Valley on December 5 2009.
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 21 August 2009
Date: Fri 21-Aug-09
Author: Alison Davey
Congratulations to the winners of the Hunter Tourism Awards 2009 which was held at Crowne Plaza. Winners include:-Boutique Wine Tours, Bimbadgen Estate who enters the Hall of Fame, Hunter Valley Gardens who enters the Hall of Fame and Tower Lodge who enters the Hall of Fame, Christmas Lights Spectacular Hunter Valley Gardens, Esca Bimbadgen, Somewhere Unique and The Vintry Country House & Vineyard.
art.mail - August 2009 e-Newsletter
Date: Thu 20-Aug-09
Author: Art Gallery of New South Wales
News from the Art Gallery of New South Wales - August 2009:
A rare opportunity to see works by William Blake, J M W Turner, Gericault, Delacroix and Corot.
Silk Ikats of Central Asia
Intensely Dutch (Closes 23 Aug)
The Dreamers
Sydney Long: Pan
ET AL maintenance of social solidarity
Nicholas Mangan: Between a Rock and a Hard Place
Finchley Vandals Return
Date: Mon 17-Aug-09
Author: Peter Firminger
Having already defaced the interpretive plinth at Finchley Aboriginal Area once before (and subsequently returned the stone sign, apparently after a stern talking to) the vandals have returned to Finchley Aboriginal Area to repeat the crime.
Awards for Sponsorship - Wild Ride
Date: Fri 14-Aug-09
Author: Paul Humphreys
Our local Hunter based sports event business has chosen Wollombi as a suitable venue to host a new annual Mountain Bike event for the Hunter. The event is to be called Wollombi Wild Ride and will be held on Saturday 5 September 2009.
A new wine club here in Wollombi Valley
Date: Fri 14-Aug-09
Author: Peter Firminger
The Sawman Wine Club is the exclusive wine club of Noyce Brothers Wines.
CultureHunter E-Newsletter August 2009
Date: Wed 12-Aug-09
Author: CultureHunter
Membership Drive
Online Photography Competition
News
Welcome to the August issue of CultureHunter's e-newsletter!:
Events
Featured Directory Entry
Job opportunities
Community Newsletter
Date: Tue 11-Aug-09
Author: Hunter Valley Protection Alliance
A newsletter from the Hunter Valley Protection Alliance - Methane Gas Situation in the Broke Valley
WVAC Arts News August/Sept 2009
Date: Mon 10-Aug-09
Author: Bronnie Aliotti
Aprons with Attitude - Stitch and Bitch
Wollombi Art - Peter Williams
Emerging Artists - DEADLINE
WVAC Arts News August/Sept 2009
Date: Mon 10-Aug-09
Author: Bronnie Aliotti
Aprons with Attitude - Stitch and Bitch
Wollombi Art - Peter Williams
Emerging Artists - DEADLINE
Arts News July/August 2009
Date: Sat 08-Aug-09
Author: Bronnie Aliotti
Lorna Wall
Mason Williams
Aprons with Attitude
Emerging Artists
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 7 August 2009
Date: Fri 07-Aug-09
Author: Alison Davey
Council has formed an Environment Committee and the inaugural meeting of the Committee will be on Thursday 20 August. The goal of the Committee is to establish how to progress the aims of the Committee and to develop a framework for future direction in planning for sustainability because ecologically sustainable development is a pathway for change, not a goal or end state in itself.
Catchment News - Issue 20 - August 2009
Date: Fri 07-Aug-09
Author: Phoebe Trongchittham
The August edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
Cessnock council to boycott planning panel
Date: Fri 07-Aug-09
Author: Donna Sharpe (The Herald)
CESSNOCK City Council is the first council in the Hunter Region, and believed to be the first in NSW, to boycott the State Government's joint regional planning panels.
The council voted unanimously at a meeting on Wednesday night to snub its nose at a scheme that would lead to select groups of representatives approving multimillion-dollar developments in local government areas in NSW.
Premier offers RFS compromise
Date: Thu 06-Aug-09
Author: The Land
The RFSA (Rural Fire Service Association) today has accepted Premier Nathan Rees' clarification and concessions in relation to his Super Ministry reforms following lengthy negotiations this week, but notes the Association's preferred position remains 'no Super Ministry'.
Cessnock Council Stands Up to State Government
Date: Thu 06-Aug-09
Author: James Ryan
Cessnock Greens Councillor James Ryan said the unanimous decision of Cessnock Council last night not to appoint representatives to the Joint Regional Panels set up by the NSW Government was a first in the Hunter Valley.
Landcare Newsletter August 2009
Date: Wed 05-Aug-09
Author: Graham Taylor
Further to the newsletter forwarded to you earlier today, there are three other news items we wish to advise you of.
Organic Fruit and Veg at Dolphin Healing Centre Cessnock
Date: Wed 05-Aug-09
Author: Imago Forest
Organic Fruit and Veg will be available from the Dolphin Healing Centre Thursdays 4 - 6:30pm. from 13th August 2009
Centenary of Singleton's Sisters of Mercy convent marked in fine style
Date: Tue 04-Aug-09
Author: Donna Sharpe (The Herald)
ONE of Singleton's landmark buildings will celebrate its centenary in grand style on Saturday. The convent of the Sisters of Mercy took 16 years to build and opened on August 8, 1909, with an afternoon tea and performances from the town band.
Singleton GP slams ambulance service
Date: Mon 03-Aug-09
Author: Kylie Williams (The Herald)
A SINGLETON GP has slammed the NSW Ambulance service, saying her critically ill 81-year-old patient almost died waiting for more than three hours to be rushed to John Hunter Hospital for life-saving surgery.
Call for Actors from Valley Artists
Date: Tue 28-Jul-09
Author: Bob Philippe
Valley Artists are calling for EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST from anyone in the community who would like to be involved in our first production for 2010 - David Williamson's hit comedy MONEY AND FRIENDS
Wollombi Valley Country Fair - fun for everyone
Date: Mon 27-Jul-09
Author: Michael Noyce
Following a recent public meeting plans are progressing very well for a weekend of fun on 7 and 8 November. At the meeting the Wollombi Valley community were given the opportunity to provide feedback on the initial plans for the Fair and give ideas to make the Fair a really fun time for everyone. Its great that so many different groups in the community will be involved in the Fair; a real community effort.
Valley Artists Newsletter - July 2009
Date: Sat 25-Jul-09
Author: Peter McCloy
Not the Programme Notes: Being sundry items of interest about our upcoming productions and the arts in general - July 2009
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 24 July 2009
Date: Fri 24-Jul-09
Author: Alison Davey
Last Friday 24 July the honour of Freeman of the City was conferred upon Marie Theresa Davies and Harold James Sternbeck AM for their lifetime of outstanding service to the community.
Fox baiting raises concern among Wollombi/Laguna dog owners
Date: Wed 22-Jul-09
Author: Lucie Robson (The Advertiser / UTS)
A group of Wollombi and Laguna residents is opposed to a plan to bait foxes in the area.
A plan by Wollombi Valley Landcare Group to have the Livestock Health and Pest Authority plant sodium monofluoroacetate, known as 1080, has prompted a group to circulate a petition against what they see as unnecessary harm to domestic dogs and wildlife.
Cessnock council needs a 'reality check', court told
Date: Wed 22-Jul-09
Author: The Advertiser
AN asbestos expert told the Land and Environment Court yesterday there was "no evidence of wholesale dumping" on land at Sawyers Gully owned by Cessnock councillor Allan McCudden's company Quintaz.
Occupational hygienist Dr Jim Orr gave evidence during the second day of hearing in a case brought by the Cessnock City Council against the councillor.
Cessnock takes councillor to court
Date: Tue 21-Jul-09
Author: Julieanne Strachan (The Herald)
CESSNOCK City Council has taken one of its own councillors to court over allegations he failed to clean up asbestos on a property owned by his company.
The Land and Environment Court was told yesterday that Cr Allan McCudden was the sole director of Quintaz Pty Ltd, which ran a number of businesses, including asbestos removal and demolition services.
From the Far End of the Council Table - 19 July 2009
Date: Sun 19-Jul-09
Author: Councillor James Ryan
I copped plenty of flack last week because I brought up the issue of crowd behavior at our sports grounds. As most people would know there was a widely publicized issue of verbal abuse of a female touch judge at a Cessnock rugby league match a couple of weeks ago. The Newcastle Herald made big headlines out of it and it reflected badly on the whole community.
Biggest show yet
Date: Fri 17-Jul-09
Author: Singleton Argus
THE 27th Singleton Art Prize will be getting off to great start tonight, when the doors open at 7pm.
There will be wine, nibbles and more than 600 quality art works on show, and the exhibition will continue throughout the weekend.
An estimated 1000 hours of volunteer hours were needed to get the art exhibition up and running and while there will be some sighs of relief come Tuesday morning, the excitement of tonight's grand opening overshadows the past months of work.
WVAC Arts News July/August 2009
Date: Wed 15-Jul-09
Author: Bronnie Aliotti
Lorna Wall - Chasing the Moon
Mason Williams
Aprons with Attitude
Sylvia Hale to visit Cessnock-Kurri Greens meeting on Monday
Date: Wed 15-Jul-09
Author: The Advertiser
Greens MP and planning spokesperson Sylvia Hale will be a guest speaker at the Cessnock-Kurri Greens public meeting on Monday night.
The meeting will discuss overdevelopment in the Hunter Region and the environmental, social and traffic problems that come with it.
Cessnock MP slams council's development assessment process
Date: Wed 15-Jul-09
Author: Julieanne Strachan (The Herald)
NSW Planning Minister Kristina Keneally has been asked to urgently investigate a Hunter council's planning controls because developers are allegedly "leaving in droves".
In a letter obtained by The Herald, state member for Cessnock Kerry Hickey pleads with the minister to intervene in Cessnock City Council's assessment processes, which he believes are strangling growth.
Bush Fire Bulletin (2009) Volume 31 No.2
Date: Tue 14-Jul-09
Author: NSW RFS
Time for Recovery
Reflections on the Victorian deployment
Bush Fire Research Task Force
How the Royal Commission works
LIFT-OUT on new Standard Design Fire Control Centres
Santos fires up coal seam gas in Gunnedah Basin
Date: Fri 10-Jul-09
Author: Ian Kirkwood (The Herald)
MAJOR Australian gas provider Santos is investing $476 million to buy coal seam methane gas resources in the Gunnedah Basin.
Together with the planned $850 million Queensland Hunter Gas Pipeline and the State Government's apparent preference for gas to fire a new baseload power station at Bayswater near Muswellbrook, the Santos investment represents a major step forward for the gas industry in NSW.
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 10 July 2009
Date: Fri 10-Jul-09
Author: Alison Davey
Council has joined a growing number of local councils which have introduced no smoking policies near children's playgrounds. In 2007 Cessnock Council introduced a no smoking policy at each of its aquatics facilities.
Broke & Milbrodale Schools not open for everyone in the community
Date: Wed 08-Jul-09
Author: Danielle Hanson
Living in an area located near two (2) small country schools one would think that having your children attend either one of these schools would be easy. We thought we lived in a supportive community.
Council unveils its new plan for Cessnock City
Date: Wed 08-Jul-09
Author: The Advertiser
Cessnock City Council's draft Local Environment Plan will be placed on public exhibition on Monday, July 27 and Council is inviting residents to have their say on this very important planning document.
The Other Side of 1080 Baiting
Date: Wed 08-Jul-09
Author: Jacqueline Millar
When Oon was first published, those many years ago now, it was a platform for the locals to have their say on all topics. I was told not to send this, that you won't publish it, because you are 'One of Landcare.' If our local newspaper has come to this, it doesn't say much for freedom of the press. Please print it.
art.mail - July 2009 e-Newsletter
Date: Tue 07-Jul-09
Author: Art Gallery of New South Wales
News from the Art Gallery of New South Wales - July 2009:
Silk Ikats of Central Asia
Intensely Dutch (Closes 23 Aug)
Double Take: Anne Landa award for Video and New Media Arts
The Dreamers
Sydney Long: Pan
ET AL maintenance of social solidarity
Nicholas Mangan: Between a Rock and a Hard Place
The Cockfighter - July 2009
Date: Mon 06-Jul-09
Author: The Cockfighter
Volume 7 - Issue 7 - Linking the comunities of Broke, Fordwich, Bulga and Milbrodale
A fun day for the Wollombi Valley
Date: Mon 06-Jul-09
Author: Michael Noyce
An initial 'seeding' committee is meeting to take these ideas further but community input into the plans is very important. So that everyone has the opportunity to voice their ideas, concerns, and criticism, a meeting open to all the community will take place at 4pm on Saturday 11 July in the Wollombi Hall. Everyone is welcome.
Catchment News - Issue 19 - July 2009
Date: Sat 04-Jul-09
Author: Phoebe Trongchittham
The July edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
From the Far End of the Council Table - 4 July 2009
Date: Sat 04-Jul-09
Author: Councillor James Ryan
You can feel there is a State Election around the corner and certain people are jostling for position. Even though the actual election won't occur until March 2011, the hopeful and the ambitious need to get their party endorsement as candidate before they are in the race. But more of that in a moment.
Sweetmans Creek house destroyed in fire
Date: Wed 01-Jul-09
Author: The Herald
WITNESSES told police they saw a car speed away from a home west of Cessnock last night before the house was destroyed by fire.
The Rural Fire Service was called to the Wollombi Road, Sweetmans Creek, property at 6.30pm yesterday.
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 26 June 2009
Date: Fri 26-Jun-09
Author: Alison Davey
Recently I welcomed students from the Epping Boys High School accompanied by their Deputy Principal to Council. The students were keen to learn about the planning issues in the Vineyard precinct.
From the Far End of the Council Table - 21 June 2009
Date: Sun 21-Jun-09
Author: Councillor James Ryan
More big Issues than you can poke a stick at! Last weeks Council meeting was one of our longest, finishing at about 10-30pm there were so many big issues on the agenda.
Gas Watch 73
Date: Sat 20-Jun-09
Author: Hunter Valley Protection Alliance
AGL Energy buys wind farms in SA - but threatens the Hunter Valley with release of another fossil fuel and loss of groundwater.
Inspirational art
Date: Fri 19-Jun-09
Author: Singleton Argus
LOCAL Indigenous artists have been helping Singleton High School students with their artworks for the celebrations for the 2009 NAIDOC Week art show.
With the theme for 2009 NAIDOC week being Honouring our Elders, Nurturing our Children, students were gaining inspiration from their heritage, the Wanaruah tribe, and were incorporating their totem animal the Eagle into their artworks.
Cessnock jail guard who fought privatisation suspended as MP accuses department
Date: Fri 19-Jun-09
Author: Melissa Lyons (The Herald)
THE suspension of a Cessnock Correctional Service officer has been branded part of a "payback campaign" by the Department of Corrective Services, and is now subject to an independent investigation.
Wollombi Valley Arts Council - Arts News - June/July 2009
Date: Thu 18-Jun-09
Author: Bronnie Aliotti
Ross Fletcher's 437 Divine Gesture Opening | An Exhibition of Paintings by Julia Francis | MAREK ZAYLER Painter | 2009 Emerging Artists Awards
Gas Watch 72
Date: Wed 17-Jun-09
Author: Hunter Valley Protection Alliance
AGL ENERGY Fails to deny intention to build a gas processing plant on its Hunter Valley properties.
Gas Watch 71
Date: Sun 14-Jun-09
Author: Hunter Valley Protection Alliance
AGL ENERGY, has purchased two further properties in the Broke and Bulga areas. It has bought the property known as Spring Mountain on the Cessnock Road/Oakley Lane at Broke; it has bought the sand mining property at Bulga.
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 12 June 2009
Date: Fri 12-Jun-09
Author: Alison Davey
Congratulations to Mr Brian Andrews OAM and Mrs Beth Masterman OAM both honoured with an Order of Australia Medal from the Queens Birthday Honours List
Landcare Newsletter June 2009
Date: Fri 12-Jun-09
Author: Graham Taylor
Please find attached a copy of the Landcare newsletter for June in PDF format.
It's no from AGL
Date: Fri 12-Jun-09
Author: Singleton Argus
THE company behind the methane gas exploration in the Broke Valley, AGL Energy, has rejected calls for a full environmental assessment to be carried out before they commence drilling activities.
Wollombi Country Fair Meeting POSTPONED
Date: Thu 11-Jun-09
Author: Peter Firminger
The public meeting that was to be held on Saturday afternoon has been postponed to a date to be decided due to Bernard's funeral arrangements.
UPDATE 110609
Date: Thu 11-Jun-09
Author: Graham Jackson
There are three items of update. Bernard Guy, Ann Adams, CD from Warkworth
Huge land deals 'illegal'
Date: Tue 09-Jun-09
Author: Linton Besser and Matthew Moore (SMH)
MULTIBILLION-DOLLAR land deals the State Government signed with two big Labor Party donors are likely to be ruled illegal by the Land and Environment Court, secret advice to the Planning Minister, Kristina Keneally, says. Ms Keneally has been told she is likely to lose a court case that begins today over the massive redevelopment of Catherine Hill Bay and Gwandalan, backed by Mr Rose (as well as a subsequent challenge over Mr Hardie's 7200-home Huntlee development at Branxton).
Catchment News - Issue 18 - June 2009
Date: Tue 09-Jun-09
Author: Phoebe Trongchittham
The June edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
From the Far End of the Council Table - 8 June 2009
Date: Mon 08-Jun-09
Author: Councillor James Ryan
There was less than the usual thrills and spills at the Council meeting this week because of the State of Origin match. Funny how the number of issues on the Agenda gets less and everyone keeps their speeches shorter when the footy is on. Wasn't a very good result though - the footy I mean.
AGL drilling to go on in Hunter
Date: Fri 05-Jun-09
Author: Debra Jopson, Regional Reporter SMH
BOB KENNEDY'S five-bedroom house dropped 1.8 metres over six days when mining company Xstrata Coal moved into a seam under his 40-hectare vineyard near Broke in the Hunter Valley, but he is more worried about whether the nearby brook will keep bubbling.
Cessnock Regional Art Gallery opens this Saturday
Date: Wed 03-Jun-09
Author: The Advertiser
Cessnock Regional Art Galley's new director, Virginia Mitchell's has invited the community to a fun-filled afternoon at the gallery's opening on Saturday.
Amazon Heart Thunder rides into Wollombi
Date: Wed 03-Jun-09
Author: Krystal Sellars (The Advertiser)
Friendship, hope and a sense of adventure was in the air at Wollombi Tavern last Wednesday when the Amazon Heart Thunder motorcycle ride for breast cancer made a pit stop in the town.
Rescue - Winter 2009
Date: Tue 02-Jun-09
Author: WRHS
The newsletter of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service - In this issue: 10,000 Paramedic missions - New Tamworth facilities - Crew and Pilot sposnors welcomed - New faces in team - Angel bits improve safety - Wests Cycle Classic raises record amount
art.mail - June 2009 Long Weekend
Date: Tue 02-Jun-09
Author: Art Gallery of New South Wales
Visit us this long weekend and enjoy a range of exhibitions and special events.
Great North Road protected
Date: Mon 01-Jun-09
Author: Newcastle on Hunter
HISTORICAL CONVICT ROAD GETS STATE HERITAGE PROTECTION - NSW Planning Minister, Kristina Keneally, today announced a further 30 kilometres of the 180-year old Great North Road would be listed on the State Heritage Register.
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 29 May 2009
Date: Fri 29-May-09
Author: Alison Davey
Sustainable Cessnock is a joint partnership of Cessnock Wine Country Chamber of Commerce and Cessnock City Council Economic Development function to look at a range of initiatives to foster sustainable business development...
Hunter protesters vent fury in Newcastle state ministers meeting
Date: Fri 29-May-09
Author: Michelle Harris (The Herald)
NSW PREMIER Nathan Rees and senior ministers were jeered by interest groups and condemned in explosive comments from Milton Orkopoulos whistleblower Gillian Sneddon at a tense Hunter community meeting last night.
St. John's (Cessnock) centenary celebrations
Date: Wed 27-May-09
Author: The Advertiser
The Parish of Cessnock/Wollombi will be celebrating the Centenary of St. John's Church, Westcott Street, Cessnock, from September to March next year.
From the Far End of the Council Table - 24 May 2009
Date: Sun 24-May-09
Author: Councillor James Ryan
There was plenty going on a Council last week. Probably the biggest issue is the development around Heddon Greta. There are two proposals for development and add to that the funding announced for the F3 which will make that area a traffic jam...
Landcare Australia News: Free Land Management Presentations
Date: Sat 23-May-09
Author: Graham Taylor
We have received the email below from Landcare Australia about free Land Management Presentations.
If this sounds of interest to you I encourage you to look at the ALM website or call Julia Telford - contact details are in the email below.
Vines from nowhere at Rothbury
Date: Sat 23-May-09
Author: Gabriel Wingate-Pearce (Herald)
Despite Rothbury having a postcode and appearing on maps as a geographical location, the word can no longer be used on wine labels by anyone but Foster's, a spokesman for the beverage giant confirmed yesterday.
"Our trademark is for the word 'Rothbury' used in certain contexts and for certain things... no one can use the word 'Rothbury' by itself, or 'Rothbury Estate'," he said.
Minister Macdonald snubs meeting
Date: Fri 22-May-09
Author: Singleton Argus
Some of the issues that Singleton Council had requested be put to the Minister included the excise of Broke Fordwich from petroleum exploration leases, increased community consultation by the mining companies and a shortening in the period of time between exploration and approval for mining.
Fosters grabs right to Rothbury name
Date: Fri 22-May-09
Author: Olivia Collings (Hospitality Magazine)
Wine growers in the Hunter Valley region of Rothbury will not be able to use the name to identify their wine's origins.
Fosters has successfully won the right to continue controlling the use of the name Rothbury, not only for wine but anything else such as clothing, materials, non alcoholic beverages and foods.
Safeguarding Agricultural Land and Water from mining
Date: Wed 20-May-09
Author: Peter Firminger
Greens MP and mining spokesperson Lee Rhiannon is set to introduce a Greens bill into the NSW Parliament to protect prime agricultural land and water in NSW from damage cause by mining and exploration - the Mining (Safeguarding Agricultural Land and Water From Mining) Amendment Bill 2009.
Farewell Bud Tingwell
Date: Wed 20-May-09
Author: Peter Firminger
As we remember Bud Tingwell today, take a moment to look at Mr Bear and Mr Rabbit, in which he starred, the winning entry in the 2008 Wollombi Valley Short Film Festival
Public Notice - Explosive Ordnance Operations - Singleton
Date: Wed 20-May-09
Author: Department of Defence
The public are advised that 'A' Field Battery will be conducting artillery firing excersises involving High Explosive (HE) and illumination ammunition at Singleton Army Training Area during the period 27 May to 13 June 2009 between the hours of 0700 and 2300.
Cessnock rates to rise
Date: Wed 20-May-09
Author: Donna Sharpe (The Herald)
CESSNOCK residents will pay an additional 3.5 per cent in rates, assisting the council to raise an estimated $33.2 million in revenue next financial year
Hunter Valley Wine Industry Awards - finalists announced for 2009
Date: Tue 19-May-09
Author: Winebiz
The Hunter Valley Wine Industry Association is proud to announce the finalists in this year's much anticipated Hunter Valley Wine Industry Awards. Now in its third year, the awards recognise and honour those who have made major contributions and excelled within the Hunter Valley Winemaking Industry.
From the Far End of the Council Table - 17 May 2009
Date: Sun 17-May-09
Author: Councillor James Ryan
What do you want Cessnock to be like in ten years time? Cessnock is at the crossroads. Everyone will have heard of the F3 Seahampton to Branxton link receiving $1.5bn funding from the Federal Rudd Government which seemed desperate to fund anything in NSW except a public transport project in Sydney...
COAG agrees on national alert system for major emergencies
Date: Fri 15-May-09
Author: MEPCC
The MEPCC welcomes the agreement reached by COAG to establish a National Alert System for Emergencies. The MEPCC acknowledges that the while the detail of the proposed National Alert System is yet to be released it would appear that such a National Alert System has the potential to supersede our local Telephone Tree.
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 15 May 2009
Date: Fri 15-May-09
Author: Alison Davey
Through my column I will keep you abreast on what is occurring within our Council and City events.
Your Planet Needs You
Date: Thu 14-May-09
Author: Graham Taylor
Budgets come and go, but the planet needs your help - now! Please see below an important message from Landcare Australia and see what you can do. Every little bit helps
Wollombi Valley Arts Council - Arts News - May/June 2009
Date: Wed 13-May-09
Author: Bronnie Aliotti
437 The Divine Gesture, Julia Francis Exhibition and Emerging Artists 2009
art.mail - May 2009 e-Newsletter
Date: Tue 12-May-09
Author: Art Gallery of New South Wales
News from the Art Gallery of New South Wales - May 2009
Start a tree-planting revolution
Date: Tue 12-May-09
Author: Michelle Cook
Planet Ark is calling on Australians to help it start a tree planting revolution by registering as volunteer Site Coordinators for National Tree Day. Volunteers that take part have the opportunity to teach future generations how to care for and preserve Australia's native environment.
The Cockfighter - May 2009
Date: Tue 12-May-09
Author: The Cockfighter
Volume 7 - Issue 5 - Linking the comunities of Broke, Fordwich, Bulga and Milbrodale
Gas Watch 70
Date: Tue 12-May-09
Author: Hunter Valley Protection Alliance
A response to the Letter to Cockfighter from local resident
Catchment News - Issue 17 - May 2009
Date: Mon 11-May-09
Author: Phoebe Trongchittham
The May edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
Wollombi Victory
Date: Mon 11-May-09
Author: Sean Gough
Here is a photo of our proud Captain receiving the magnificent trophy on behalf of the victorious Wollombi team after a tight finish. Laguna's Kiwi Jason was caught just on the boundary when striking out for a 6 on the last ball!
Cessnock Country Music Festival
Date: Sun 10-May-09
Author: Cessnock Country Music Festival
A tribute to Reg Lindsay, who passed away in '08 will launch this years pfi/net Cessnock Country Music Festival
Spiritual inspiration
Date: Fri 08-May-09
Author: Singleton Argus
INSPIRED and passionate about their art, a group of graduated TAFE art students is getting together once a week at the Mercy Convent. The seven artists are from various areas, as far as Kurri and Wollombi and Singleton.
Boost to brigades
Date: Fri 08-May-09
Author: Singleton Argus
SINGLETON Council plans to provide the Rural Fire Service with two new home bases in the 2009/10 financial year. Council's draft management plan now on public exhibition also includes the purchase of two new fire trucks and a bulk water carrier to replace outdated vehicles...
Upcoming events - Got kids (or not fully grown-up yourself?)
Date: Mon 04-May-09
Author: Peter Firminger
For those with kids, there are some under-advertised things happening in the region, along with cricket, music, the arts and agriculture
Wildlife have had a gutful of plastic bags
Date: Sun 03-May-09
Author: Michelle Cook
"South Australia will lead the nation in banning plastic checkout bags starting on Monday (May 4)," says Anne-Marie Byrne of Planet Ark, " This is a very positive step. Other States can show their commitment to our environment and wildlife by following the South Australian lead."
Cessnock jail backflip
Date: Sat 02-May-09
Author: Julieanne Strachan (The Herald)
CESSNOCK jail will stay in public hands after the State Government abandoned plans to privatise the prison. Corrective Services Minister John Robertson announced the backflip yesterday after the powerful Labor Party Administrative Committee refused to overrule Labor policy that forbade private contract management of prisons.
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 1 May 2009
Date: Fri 01-May-09
Author: Alison Davey
The fortnightly report from Alison Davey for Friday 1 May 2009
COAG backs national bushfire warning
Date: Thu 30-Apr-09
Author: Andrew Derby
Australian leaders have agreed to build a national telephone emergency warning system by the next bushfire season. Prime Minister Kevin Rudd said his Government would give $15 million to help states and territories set up the system, which will send messages to landlines and mobile phones.
What future for rural voters?
Date: Wed 29-Apr-09
Author: Lucy Skuthorp (The Land)
IN our free and fair democracy, the time to re-examine fair and equitable political representation is now, or else successive electoral boundary redistributions will continually disadvantage rural communities in the "the people's house".
Ornate Hunter B&B for sale
Date: Tue 28-Apr-09
Author: The Land
The converted CBC Bed and Breakfast in Paterson in the Hunter Valley is to be sold. The former Paterson Branch of the Commercial Banking Company of Sydney has high ornate ceilings, Australian cedar and American redwood timbers, original floors and five guestrooms.
Around the New England press - week ending 24 April 2009
Date: Mon 27-Apr-09
Author: Jim Belshaw
News from New England and the Hunter from the New England Blog
Gas Watch 69
Date: Mon 27-Apr-09
Author: Hunter Valley Protection Alliance
It appears that it is now impossible to receive a response, if you write to AGL ENERGY, from anybody other the Land and Approvals Manager. You know, the staff level of the former Hind Kourouche of SGL.
Gas Watch 68
Date: Mon 27-Apr-09
Author: Hunter Valley Protection Alliance
Does this company have an environmental and social conscience, or is it just Sydney Gas all over again?
Day to remember your mates
Date: Sat 25-Apr-09
Author: Rachel Oldknow (Singleton Argus)
AT age 18 he enlisted to serve his country, at 20 he was a soldier serving with the Australian 2/12 commandos squadron in the jungles of Borneo.
Once Four Thousand Diggers
Date: Sat 25-Apr-09
Author: Graham Jackson
As sung by the Wollombi Combined Churches Choir at the Dawn Service this morning ANZAC Day 2009
'Greenethorpe needs you'
Date: Sat 25-Apr-09
Author: Cassandra Hough (The Land)
'GREENETHORPE needs you' is the slogan for the latest rural community wanting to attract new families with the lure of $1 a week rent. The main aim is to boost numbers at the school.
Hunter discovers it's finally OK to be a real twit
Date: Sat 25-Apr-09
Author: Tess Campbell (The Herald)
SOCIAL networking in the Hunter has been reborn. Twitter has everyone talking writes Tess Campbell.
Australians honour the brave fallen
Date: Sat 25-Apr-09
Author: Tyron Butson (The Herald)
TODAY, as veterans dust off medals in preparation for Anzac Day services in the Hunter, they know that half a world away diggers on active service in locations such as war-torn Afghanistan, East Timor and the troubled Solomon Islands will briefly join them in honouring the fallen.
Community Websites on a roll
Date: Fri 24-Apr-09
Author: Peter Firminger
Two Community websites were launched this week, one in Tasmania (the first in that state) and one (with two names) in NSW
NSW wine sales surge
Date: Fri 24-Apr-09
Author: DPI
Retail sales of NSW bottled wine increased 12.6% within the State last year, pumping an extra $6.6 million into the rapidly growing local wine industry, Minister for Primary Industries, Ian Macdonald, said today.
Cunneens Bridge Closure
Date: Wed 22-Apr-09
Author: Darren McKimm
There has been a need to change the dates for closure of Cunneens Bridge Wollombi to allow the load capacity testing to be undertaken.
Monument on Wollombi's history
Date: Wed 22-Apr-09
Author: The Advertiser
Many years of planning culminated recently in the unveiling of a stone monument at Wollombi. The monument was unveiled by Member for Cessnock, Kerry Hickey. This was followed by the launch of the Wollombi Cemetery booklet by Mayor of Cessnock, Cr. Alison Davey at a function at the Wollombi Cultural Centre.
Wollombi Valley News - 20 April
Date: Mon 20-Apr-09
Author: Peter Firminger
As posted to the Wollombi Valley Online Announce List
From the Far End of the Council Table - 20 April
Date: Mon 20-Apr-09
Author: Councillor James Ryan
Cessnock Councillors made an important decision last week. We voted to not include Kurri Golf Club and Heddon Greta Drive-In a plan to rezone land for residential development...
Valley Artists Newsletter - April (2) 2009
Date: Sun 19-Apr-09
Author: Peter McCloy
The morning after: Notes from the first weekend of "Little Voice". Tickets selling fast!
Wollombi Valley Arts Council - Arts News - April 2009
Date: Sun 19-Apr-09
Author: Bronnie Aliotti
Inside Art, 437 The Divine Gesture, Cultural Centre Bookings
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 17 April 2009
Date: Fri 17-Apr-09
Author: Alison Davey
The fortnightly report from Alison Davey for Friday 17 April 2009
Wisemans Ferry in Top 100
Date: Thu 16-Apr-09
Author: Cassi Tonkin
Ask a local and you would expect to get a biased answer "Wisemans Ferry is one of the best places to visit in Australia." But now its official - the historic hamlets claim to fame has just been formerly recognised by the Australian Traveller magazine.
Conroy's bad bush broadband connection
Date: Wed 15-Apr-09
Author: Lucy Skuthorp (The Land)
ONE thing sadly missing from this big, beefy broadband debate is the lack of any mention of a rock-solid guarantee to ensure decent broadband services to rural and remote areas in the Government's $43 billion fibre to the home plan.
Valley Artists Newsletter - April 2009
Date: Wed 15-Apr-09
Author: Peter McCloy
Not the Programme Notes: Being sundry items of interest about our upcoming productions and the arts in general - April 2009
A 'Fair' Showing in Gosford
Date: Tue 14-Apr-09
Author: On Mangrove Mountain
There will be echoes of the past at this year's Gosford Show. In earlier times, well remembered by many present residents, the various Agricultural Bureau branches (Mangrove Mountain, Peat's Ridge, Kulnura) made district displays of farm and orchard produce in competition at the Gosford Show.
art.mail - April 2009 e-Newsletter
Date: Sun 12-Apr-09
Author: Art Gallery of New South Wales
News from the Art Gallery of New South Wales - April 2009
Hunter jail art lost (Inside Art)
Date: Sat 11-Apr-09
Author: Michelle Harris (The Herald)
AN exhibition of artworks by Hunter prisoners that officially opened last night was almost cancelled after pieces were lost or left behind in the recent late-night removal of inmates from Cessnock jail.
Landcare Newsletter April 2009
Date: Thu 09-Apr-09
Author: Graham Taylor
Please find attached a copy of the Landcare newsletter for April in PDF format.
The Cockfighter - April 2009
Date: Thu 09-Apr-09
Author: The Cockfighter
Volume 7 - Issue 4 - Linking the communities of Broke, Fordwich, Bulga and Milbrodale
Gas Watch 67 AGL! Methane Gas could Kill the Hunter Valley.
Date: Wed 08-Apr-09
Author: Hunter Valley Protection Alliance
On 6th and 7th April we had a couple of people outside AGL Energy Headquarters at 101 Miller Street, North Sydney. They were there for a couple of hours as the employees arrived, and for a couple of hours at lunch time each day. One with signs and handing out pamphlets. The other as the Grim Reaper, which is how we see AGL ENERGY in respect of its actions at Broke in regard to the water tables and in relation to the risk of methane gas explosion and migration. We intend to make random appearances at the AGL ENERGY offices.
Catchment News - Issue 16 - April 2009
Date: Wed 08-Apr-09
Author: Phoebe Trongchittham
The April edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
Rescue - Autumn 2009
Date: Wed 08-Apr-09
Author: WRHS
The newsletter of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service - In this issue: Your Rescue Helicopter, Laura Davies supports the Service, OneSteel Waratah becomes sponsor, Ducks4Dollars raises $75K, Wests Cycle Classic hits road, Wingham Beef Imports great gift, Harleys' Turkey Run, Ritchie's IGA donation
Cyanide insanity
Date: Wed 08-Apr-09
Author: Sharyn Munro
In my book 'The Woman on the Mountain', I expressed my disbelief that the National Heritage listed wetlands of Lake Cowal - and all the waters downstream - had been put under great threat from Canadian giant Barrick Gold's open-cut cyanide leach goldmining right next to it...
Region's rubbish at recycling
Date: Tue 07-Apr-09
Author: Damon Cronshaw (The Herald)
CESSNOCK, Maitland and Lake Macquarie residents are among the worst recyclers in the state, according to NSW Government figures. The three areas rank in the bottom four of 51 areas from the south coast to the Hunter for household waste recycling rates.
Shea's at Wollombi doing it for the dogs...
Date: Mon 06-Apr-09
Author: Peter Firminger
Congratulations to all the staff at Shea's for contributing their tips to the RSPCA's Tips for Tails campaign on March 27-29
The wonders of Wollombi
Date: Sun 05-Apr-09
Author: Sally Macmillan (Sunday Telegraph)
The Wollombi feature by Sally Macmillan in the Sunday Telegraph on April 5 2009 (a free subscription is required to view the full story).
Fighting floods or living with them?
Date: Sat 04-Apr-09
Author: CMA
A new book, produced by the CMA and written by Chas Keys, details the major floods that have occurred in the Lower Hunter over the past 200 years, and provides an account of heroic rescues, tragic losses, and the beginning of an integrated approach to flood management as a consequence of the 1955 flood.
Wendoree Park NSW Community Website
Date: Fri 03-Apr-09
Author: auCD
Wendoree Park has launched their community website at www.wendoreepark.nsw.au and has immediately experienced the benefits of making this initiative.
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 3 April 2009
Date: Fri 03-Apr-09
Author: Alison Davey
It was a great pleasure to open the Nostalgia Festival recently. I believe the crowd attendance was well above previous years. The Kurri Kurri Towns with Heart Committee should be congratulated on a magnificent job in again showcasing the township of Kurri Kurri as a great tourist venue.
Extension approved
Date: Fri 03-Apr-09
Author: Singleton Argus
THE NSW Planning Minister, Kristina Keneally, has announced the approval for an extension to the Hunter Valley Operations mining complex with stringent management conditions that will guide its operations until 2030.
Chooks Revenge - Methane on Mangrove Mountain
Date: Thu 02-Apr-09
Author: Neil (On Mangrove Mountain Editor)
Many will be aware of the situation where a local family has been forced to leave their home due to toxic levels of methane rising from a burial pit dug on their property during the 1999 Newcastle Disease eradication campaign.
Cuneens Bridge Limit and Closure Notices
Date: Mon 30-Mar-09
Author: Kevin Dillon (CCC)
During a recent inspection of Cunneens Bridge it became apparent that several timber components have deteriorated significantly since the last structural testing undertaken in March 2007 which led to imposition of the current 9 tonne load limit.
Valley Artists Newsletter - March 2009
Date: Fri 27-Mar-09
Author: Peter McCloy
Not the Programme Notes: Being sundry items of interest about our upcoming productions and the arts in general - March 2009
Countryfest is coming
Date: Fri 27-Mar-09
Author: Singleton Argus
THE countdown to Countryfest has begun with Australia's best wife-carriers ready and rearing to take the Singleton Showground stage in hopes of being crowned Australia's best for 2009.
The PBR rodeo is no longer and the Muay Thai boxing didn't eventuate, but heck who cares because wife-carrying is back and the date set for this year's showdown is Saturday, May 2.
With only six weeks until the hilarity hits Singleton, the competition is already building momentum with Countryfest organisers already in receipt of a record number of entries for Australia's wife carrying titles.
Drilling must stop
Date: Fri 27-Mar-09
Author: Singleton Argus
A DELEGATION will be sent to Minister for Primary Industries, Ian Macdonald, seeking to stop any drilling in the Broke Valley by Sydney Gas.
The delegation will be seeking that the Broke Fordwich winegrowing region be excised from the petroleum exploration leases held by Sydney Gas.
In addition to this, it will be seeking that no further activities be undertaken on the two wells adjacent to the village of Broke currently owned by Sydney Gas until a full environmental assessment is undertaken on the wells, and terms of reference on a water study to be undertaken is agreed to by the project's community consultative committee.
Wollombi ranks 94 in the top 100 towns in Australia
Date: Thu 26-Mar-09
Author: Australian Traveller Magazine
Tucked into the lower fringes of the NSW Hunter Valley wine region, the 20th Century - let alone the 21st - barely left a mark on Wollombi.
Wollombi (population 300) makes our Top 100 for two fundamental reasons: unadulterated old-world charm, and the 100 percent quirk factor of the triple alliteration-scoring Dr Jurd's Jungle Juice.
Fuel storage tanks blamed for water contamination
Date: Thu 26-Mar-09
Author: Peter Firminger
ABC News reports: The New South Wales Department of Environment and Climate Change says groundwater in Scone has been contaminated by fuel storage tanks at a local service station.
Forums on Mental Health
Date: Wed 25-Mar-09
Author: Cessnock Area Mental Health Support Group
Cessnock Area Mental Health Support Group will be holding six public awareness forums on mental health starting Monday April 6.
Hold them to account - Conroy on Q&A This Thursday
Date: Wed 25-Mar-09
Author: GetUp Via WIPA
This is our chance to ask Senator Conroy to explain his plans to censor the internet. The architect of the Government's net censorship plans, Communications Minister Stephen Conroy, has refused interviews on the topic for months. But at 9.30pm this Thursday night we have an opportunity to put him on the spot.
Singleton council goes for Broke on gas
Date: Wed 25-Mar-09
Author: Hunter Valley Protection Alliance
Methane gas drilling opposed by Hunter Valley council
Sydney Gas methane drilling threatens Hunter Valley primary schoolchildren and local water supply. Singleton Council resolved yesterday to lead a delegation to Minister McDonald to have this small but sensitive area saved from methane exploration.
Call For Environmental Trust Applications
Date: Wed 25-Mar-09
Author: Amy Nancarrow
The Environmental Trust is an independent statutory body established by the NSW government to support exceptional environmental projects that do not receive funds from the usual government sources.
100 Best Towns in Australia
Date: Wed 25-Mar-09
Author: Australian Traveller
From wine-growing hubs to beachside hideaways and remote outback communities, Australian Traveller has searched high and low to determine which are Australia's Best Towns. But before you get to the list, here's how we made our decisions...
...the wheels are falling off Senator Conroy's billy cart...
Date: Mon 23-Mar-09
Author: Asher Moses (SMH)
iiNet pulls out of net censorship trials.
Australia's third largest internet provider, iiNet, has withdrawn from the Government's internet censorship trials, saying it could not 'reconcile participation in the trial with our corporate social responsibility'.
Calling for applications for sustainable farming grants
Date: Mon 23-Mar-09
Author: Carolyn Jenkinson (NSW DPI)
Rural landholders, land managers, rural industries and groups in the Central Coast Plateau (and surrounding LGAs) are being encouraged to apply for grants to implement on-ground works that have a sustainable agriculture focus.
From the Far End of the Council Table - 22 March
Date: Sun 22-Mar-09
Author: Councillor James Ryan
Another long Council meeting finishing just before 10pm was the result of actual debate happening at Cessnock Council. I know some people have criticized the longer Council meetings but to me,after the experience of the old Council, it is a breath of fresh air that the Councillors are actually discussing stuff.
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 20 March 2009
Date: Fri 20-Mar-09
Author: Alison Davey
The fortnightly report from Alison Davey for Friday 20 March 2009
Firearm Amnesty
Date: Thu 19-Mar-09
Author: 2NM Newsroom
Hunter Valley Police are calling for people to hand in any firearms they may have under the latest gun amnesty.
Youth Week 2009
Date: Wed 18-Mar-09
Author: Peter Firminger
We have added a section to the Wollombi Valley Events Calendar for Youth Week 2009.
This page covers events in both Cessnock and Singleton areas.
Manly wins the annual Cricket match
Date: Wed 18-Mar-09
Author: Sally Sullivan
In the annual cricket match between Laguna Village people Cricket Club and Manly, Manly Steyne won 117 to 63.
Cessnock councillors urge Pacific Brands boycott
Date: Mon 16-Mar-09
Author: Michelle Harris (The Herald)
CESSNOCK City Council will be asked to lead a statewide council boycott of Pacific Brands products in response to the company's decision to cut its Australian manufacturing workforce, including 83 jobs at Cessnock. The council will also be asked to write to Sarah Murdoch, Pat Rafter and Michael Clarke, who have helped promote Pacific Brands products, asking them to sever ties with the company.
Raffle Winners drawn by Fr Graham
Date: Sun 15-Mar-09
Author: Peter Firminger
The raffle for the Victorian Bushfire Appeal was drawn this afternoon at Wollombi Tavern by Father Graham Jackson
Anger over test wells
Date: Fri 13-Mar-09
Author: Singleton Argus
SYDNEY Gas has started a water monitoring study in test wells on land at Broke this week, sparking renewed protests by the Hunter Bulga Gas Action Group. The group wants solid proof that the water aquifers in the gas exploration area will not be impacted by any of Sydney Gas' activities...
art.mail - March 2009 e-Newsletter
Date: Thu 12-Mar-09
Author: Art Gallery of New South Wales
News from the Art Gallery of New South Wales - March 2009
Wollombi Valley Arts Council - Arts News
Date: Wed 11-Mar-09
Author: Bronnie Aliotti
The March/April 2009 newsletter from WVAC: Heritage of the Wollombi, Inside Art and the WVAC AGM
Noyce Brothers Wine Outlet soon to Open in Wollombi Village
Date: Wed 11-Mar-09
Author: Peter Firminger
Prior to the development work on Wollombi Cottage, Noyce Brothers will open their Wine Retail Outlet in Gray's Inn on March 20
The Cockfighter - March 2009
Date: Wed 11-Mar-09
Author: The Cockfighter
Volume 7 - Issue 3 - Linking the communities of Broke, Fordwich, Bulga and Milbrodale
More unattributed SPIN from AGL Energy (Sydney Gas)
Date: Mon 09-Mar-09
Author: Drill & Blast - Australia's premier drill & blast news website
What a crock! Talk about spinning up a story.
The article is titled 'Sydney Gas says it knows the drill'... WHO exactly said that and what the hell does that headline mean in relation to the story under it? Reads like the expected low-quality spin from an amateur Scone-based publicity outfit!
Sydney Gas has no voice (they're too embarrassed to sign their work)! AGL Energy (ASX:AGK - 100% owners of NSW Labor Party Contributors Sydney Gas Ltd.) have a lot to answer for...
AGL must sack these amateurs NOW!
Date: Mon 09-Mar-09
Author: Peter Firminger
Following in the footsteps of Mark 'Fart Joke' Harper, Colin Stace has belittled the Broke and wider Wollombi Valley Community with a flippant and apparently funny (to him) remark, allegedly saying 'I'm The Enemy' (twice - in case no-one heard him - in front on an NBN TV crew) while overseeing the environmental and economic destruction of a beautiful and vibrant rural village in the Hunter Valley.
Yengo Country - a source of cultural & spiritual awakening
Date: Mon 09-Mar-09
Author: Garry Jones
For those that attended the WVAC's very informative 'Aboriginal History of the Wollombi' seminar in Laguna last month, here is Garry Jones' updated document.
Gas Watch 64 - 'I'm the Enemy' says AGL's Colin Stace
Date: Mon 09-Mar-09
Author: HBGAG
Whilst we were sitting talking to NBN television in the Broke village today, this spokesman for Sydney Gas walked past and said: "I'm the enemy." Twice.
Valley Artists Newsletter - February 2009
Date: Mon 09-Mar-09
Author: Peter McCloy
Not the Programme Notes: Being sundry items of interest about our upcoming productions and the arts in general - February 2009
From the Far End of the Council Table
Date: Sun 08-Mar-09
Author: Councillor James Ryan
The last Council meeting produced a whole mix of decisions. A good decision was the one in which there was no attempt to support the Skydiving at Hope Estate...
Drill for Natural Gas, Pollute Water
Date: Sat 07-Mar-09
Author: Abrahm Lustgarten and ProPublica (Scientific American)
The natural gas industry refuses to reveal what is in the mixture of chemicals used to drill for the fossil fuel. Published 17 November 2008
George Souris Private Members Statement on Upper Hunter Gas Exploration
Date: Sat 07-Mar-09
Author: HANSARD - NSW Legislative Assembly
Legislative Assembly, 5 March 2009
Upper Hunter Gas Exploration (Proof) Speakers - Souris Mr George
Business - Private Members Statements, PRIV
From the Mayor's Desk - Friday 6 March 2009
Date: Fri 06-Mar-09
Author: Alison Davey
The fortnightly report from Alison Davey
Catchment News - Issue 15 - March 2009
Date: Wed 04-Mar-09
Author: Phoebe Trongchittham
The March edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
Foggy Mountain Jam - Jamtastic!
Date: Sun 01-Mar-09
Author: Peter Firminger
A simply wonderful evening on Murrays Run
VIC bushfire affected communities given a voice online
Date: Fri 27-Feb-09
Author: auCD
auCD have temporarily* provided community websites for the recent Victorian (February, 2009) bushfire affected communities to help with the rebuilding of their communities as a potential focus point...
Volunteers rush to relieve fire fighting crews
Date: Fri 27-Feb-09
Author: Singleton Argus
THERE was no trouble finding local volunteers ready to battle the Victorian bush fires. Eighteen members of the Hunter Valley Rural Fire Service left last Saturday for a five-day stint in the ravaged region. They returned on Wednesday but not before another contingent of 18 rural fire fighters were sent to relieve fire crews on Tuesday.
Bonds broken in Cessnock factory closure
Date: Fri 27-Feb-09
Author: Greg Wendt (The Herald)
IT has seen marriages, family bonds and long friendships. The ties that bind the textile workers at Cessnock have been as strong as the threads on their sewing machines. Now the Bonds factory workers have become the human faces of Australia's collapsing economy.
Sydney Gas will be suspended from trading on March 4
Date: Thu 26-Feb-09
Author: Peter Firminger
Sydney Gas will be suspended from trading on March 4, following the despatch of compulsory acquisition notices by AGL Energy.
This news comes as AGL acquires 97% in target Sydney Gas.
Bonds maker Pacific Brands closes Cessnock clothing factory
Date: Thu 26-Feb-09
Author: Greg Wendt (The Herald)
THE global economic slump cast its shadow over Cessnock yesterday as the company that owns iconic Australian brand Bonds announced the closure of its factory with at least 80 jobs to be axed. Cessnock MP Kerry Hickey said he was shocked and disappointed at the big loss of jobs.
Mangrove Mountain Markets
Date: Sun 22-Feb-09
Author: On The Mountain
The organisers of the first of the market days must be very pleased with the number of people attending and the support of stall holders.
It could have been us...
Date: Sat 21-Feb-09
Author: Peter Firminger
A raffle for the Victorian Bushfires Appeal - Tickets Available from Wollombi Tavern, Wollombi General Store and The Old Northern Trading Post Laguna - $2 each or 3 for $5
Special Hunter services to mourn victims
Date: Sat 21-Feb-09
Author: Lisa Barritt-Eyles (The Herald)
THE Victorian Bushfire National Day of Mourning will be observed by churches throughout the Hunter Region tomorrow. The majority of churches will include memorial prayers and reflection in their regular Sunday services.
Special memorial services will be held at Adamstown Uniting Church at 9am, St John's Anglican Church, Wollombi, at 10am and Newcastle Salvation Army, the Monastery, Woodstock Street, Mayfield, at 1.30pm.
Aprons with Attitude
Date: Fri 20-Feb-09
Author: Stitch 'n' Bitch
Wollombi Valley Stitch 'n' Bitch are seeking expressions of interest for an exhibition of handcrafted and vintage aprons.
From the Mayor's Desk
Date: Fri 20-Feb-09
Author: Alison Davey
The fortnightly report from Mayor Alison Davey: As you are aware the Local Government Section 430 Report is available to the general public. Copies are available for viewing from Cessnock and Kurri Kurri Libraries.
Support for those under threat of mines
Date: Fri 20-Feb-09
Author: Singleton Argus
SINGLETON Council and fellow members of the D Division of the Shires Association have thrown their support behind communities that are under threat from encroaching mining operations.
At a meeting on Tuesday, the member councils of D Division voted unanimously to support a motion that no exploration licences be granted or mining permitted within scenic protection zones, village zones, urban zones and rural residential zones of any local environment plan of any council.
Gloucester Residents in Partnership
Date: Fri 20-Feb-09
Author: Peter Firminger
The GRIP website has been launched! GRIP is a group of ordinary residents of the Gloucester Shire. GRIP has no political affiliations or agenda. Some members are directly affected by GRL's coal exploration. Others are not but share concern for the welfare of friends and the defence of Gloucester and its environment.
Cessnock council slammed as 'dysfunctional'
Date: Thu 19-Feb-09
Author: Joanne McCarthy (The Herald)
Cessnock City Council has been slammed as "dysfunctional", at risk of corruption, lacking in leadership and with evidence of an "inappropriate culture" involving gifts and benefits, a damning Local Government Department report has found...
National Day of Mourning
Date: Wed 18-Feb-09
Author: Peter Firminger
This Sunday, Father Graham Jackson will conduct an Ecumenical Service at St John's Wollombi, commencing at 10.00am in respect of the National Day of Mourning for those who have lost so much in the Victorian bushfires.
Wollombi Markets Australia Day 2009
Date: Wed 18-Feb-09
Author: Caroline Maul
The Australia Day Wollombi Markets 2009 were once again a very successful day, mainly due to our large group of volunteers!
This is a fine example of how our community really can pull together and work side by side for the good of Wollombi and Laguna.
Gas Watch 63
Date: Wed 18-Feb-09
Author: HBGAG
Sydney Gas says it is about to start using their Broke Village METHANE gas wells to see if the underground water supplying Broke "drains into the coal seams" under Broke.
It is what is missing from their front page story in the Singleton Argus on 17th February, 2009 which is of most concern, not what is in that story.
Controversial Gas Mining Company threatens village
Date: Wed 18-Feb-09
Author: HBGAG
Methane gas explorer, Sydney Gas, currently being taken over by AGL Energy, threatens the vineyard village of Broke in the Hunter Valley.
Sydney Gas has just announced it is about to drill a test well and draw water from coal seams, which extend under the village of Broke, to see if the water tables under Broke, used by the village for domestic use, "drain away into the coal seam".
Kulnura Community Arts & Entertainment Program
Date: Sun 15-Feb-09
Author: Sue Douglas
One more interesting year has passed and another is ready to be planned. In 2008, we enjoyed a delightful Pantomime, made some clever Sculptures, and Belly danced, with regular classes, performances at festivals, a Hafla and Christmas party...
Greens secure $60m for National Heritage
Date: Fri 13-Feb-09
Author: The Australian Greens
Great timing for a number of Heritage Projects in Wollombi Valley
Landcare Newsletter February 2009
Date: Thu 12-Feb-09
Author: Graham Taylor
Please find attached a copy of the Landcare newsletter for February in PDF format.
Hmmm, no comment!
Date: Thu 12-Feb-09
Author: Peter Firminger
Labor (and National) Party Contributions by Sydney Gas Operations Pty. Ltd.
Follow up letter to Ian McDonald MLC
Date: Thu 12-Feb-09
Author: Peter Firminger
Minister, I'm sorry if my previous question was too difficult for you to answer (or even acknowledge receipt) in a timely manner. So let's simplify it.
AGL Energy up to 92.5% in target Sydney Gas
Date: Thu 12-Feb-09
Author: Peter Firminger
It is now clear that AGL Energy will force the aquisition of the remaining shares to take over Sydney Gas
Gas Watch 62
Date: Thu 12-Feb-09
Author: HBGAG
Sydney Gas back to old ways - breaching undertaking made to the community; threatening our underground water supply; risking exploding methane gas near the Broke public school
Gas Watch 61
Date: Thu 12-Feb-09
Author: HBGAG
Sydney Gas/AGL assure community - no further action on Broke Village wells until independent water study completed.
Choose Wisely - an initiative of the RSPCA Australia to get hens out of cages
Date: Wed 11-Feb-09
Author: RSPCA
Today in Australia there are around 11.6 million hens living and laying eggs in cages. They suffer chronically throughout their short lives.
Whether you're a business owner or a consumer, by choosing your eggs wisely you can make a difference to the welfare of these animals and help the RSPCA get hens out of cages.
Hunter Bushfire Risk Management plan
Date: Tue 10-Feb-09
Author: Graham Taylor
With the tragic consequences of the bushfires in Victoria still unfolding, it is worth reminding everyone that there is a draft Bushfire Risk Management Plan for the Lower Hunter in the process of being formulated. Details and copies of the draft can be downloaded off the Maitland Council website.
Bucketty Bushfire Brigade are conducting a question and answer session on the proposed Risk management Plan followed by a sausage sizzle on Sunday 15th February to which you are cordially invited.
Peats Ridge Road (Gosford) Fire Update
Date: Mon 09-Feb-09
Author: NSW RFS
Firefighters are working to contain a bush fire, which is burning uncontained at Peats Ridge on the Central Coast.
This post is updated frequently
3 Ways (Singleton) Fire Update
Date: Mon 09-Feb-09
Author: NSW RFS
Firefighters are continuing to work on a fire which is burning in the Wollemi National Park, approximately 25 kilometres northwest of Putty and 44km south of Denman.
This post is updated frequently
From the Far End of the Council Table
Date: Sun 08-Feb-09
Author: Councillor James Ryan
How the system works - and doesn't work. Last week I received a letter from the Planning Minister telling me she was declining to put the land around Pitt Lane in Sawyers Gully into the Draft LEP. In everyday language that means the Minister won't consider rezoning the land from farmland to residential.
Foggy Mountain Jam SOLD OUT
Date: Fri 06-Feb-09
Author: Peter Firminger
All tickets for Foggy Mountain Jam have now been sold!
Call for Rail Services for NSW's Biggest Residential Development
Date: Thu 05-Feb-09
Author: Councillor James Ryan
Cessnock council unanimously moved to request the NSW Government provide increased passenger rail services if it approves any development in the massive Huntlee proposal at Branxton.
From the Mayor's Desk
Date: Thu 05-Feb-09
Author: Alison Davey
The fortnightly report from Mayor Alison Davey: I recently came across a poem which I wanted to share with you, I believe, written by an unknown author. I know that you will enjoy reading this poem with pride as I did.
The Central Coast Plateau Sustainable Farming Project
Date: Wed 04-Feb-09
Author: Carolyn Jenkinson (NSW DPI)
The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries with funding from the Commonwealth Government's National Landcare Program, is offering grants to landholders to implements on-ground works targeting weeds and pests...
Catchment News - Issue 14 - February 2009
Date: Wed 04-Feb-09
Author: Phoebe Trongchittham
The February edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
Letter to Ian McDonald - NSW Minister for Primary Industries
Date: Wed 04-Feb-09
Author: Peter Firminger
Letter sent on 28-Jan-2009 to The Hon Ian McDonald which so far remains unanswered
ACCC Letters from HBGAG
Date: Wed 04-Feb-09
Author: Graham Gibson (HBGAG)
Attached is a copy of letters we sent to the ACCC regarding the "green" claims of Sydney Gas.
Letter to Council
Date: Tue 03-Feb-09
Author: Peter Firminger
A letter to Cessnock Council on the continuing Cunneens Bridge Issue
The Water Watcher - Autumn 2009
Date: Sun 01-Feb-09
Author: CMA
Newsletter of Hunter-Central Rivers Waterwatch - In this edition:
Upcoming Catchment Projects: Tilligerry Creek Projects
Champions of the Catchments Awards
Autumn Water Bug Surveys - March 2009
Phosphorus Awareness Week - 2008 Results
Spotlight on: Large-Footed Myotis
NSW Envirothon 2008 Winners - Dungog High School
Waterwatch Laminates Available
The Back Page: Dates, Funding, Trivia, Frog Survey
Increase in bird attack blamed on gas gun spike
Date: Fri 30-Jan-09
Author: The Singleton Argus
THE use of gas guns on vineyards has caused lively debate in the Broke and Bulga areas with an increase in bird attack igniting the guns far more regularly than some would like. Bulga couple Jurgen and Garby Seiffhart live opposite vineyards and say the guns are making their life unbearable.
Doorknocking Scam
Date: Wed 28-Jan-09
Author: 2NM Newsroom
The Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) is alerting the community of a possible door knocking scam in the hunter region.
Foggy Mountain Jam website now completed
Date: Tue 27-Jan-09
Author: Peter Firminger
The website for Foggy Mountain Jam has been completed with full details of the event on 28 February
Wollombi Markets Australia Day 2009
Date: Tue 27-Jan-09
Author: Caroline Maul
Wollombi once again celebrated Australia Day in true country style at the Wollombi Markets. There were plenty of stalls with produce and bric and brac. Hot food and ice creams, plants and clothing. The volunteers did a great job! From the allocations of stall sites, serving the teas and coffee, cooking at the barbeque, baking cakes, cleaning up the grounds afterwards and standing at the gate with the donation bucket!
From the Far End of the Council Table
Date: Sun 25-Jan-09
Author: Councillor James Ryan
Was it a record? The longest Cessnock Council meeting ever? Last week the Council meeting went till 10-45pm - after starting at 6-30pm that is 4 hours and 15 minutes. Is that a bad thing? Probably not. It indicates that the Councillors are debating the issues - in contrast to what used to happen.
Disney's Beauty and the Beast - Auditions
Date: Wed 21-Jan-09
Author: Singleton Theatrical Society
2009 will see Singleton Theatrical Society launch into preparation and production of the Walt Disney Classic; Beauty and the Beast. Auditions are being held on Tuesday 20 January and Thursday 22 January at 7:30pm at 74 George Street. Auditions for 'Chip' are on Sunday 25 January at 2:00pm.
Sydney Gas shareholders urged to accept takeover
Date: Wed 21-Jan-09
Author: ABC News
Sydney Gas is advising shareholders to accept a takeover offer from AGL Energy, saying that company is better placed to develop a $10 billion methane gas field in the Hunter Valley.
Foggy Mountain Jam
Date: Tue 20-Jan-09
Author: Peter Firminger
A Family Music Day With Kasey Chambers & Shane Nicholson, Troy Cassar-Daley, Shane Howard (Goanna), Bill Chambers & Jim Moginie (Midnight Oil) plus special guests...
Newcastle churches combine on professional standards
Date: Mon 19-Jan-09
Author: Christian Today via CathNews
In an historic move, the Anglican diocese of Newcastle and the Catholic diocese of Maitland-Newcastle are embarking upon a joint approach to the management of professional standards in the Hunter Valley.
Sydney Gas backs AGL bid
Date: Mon 19-Jan-09
Author: AAP - Yahoo Finance
Sydney Gas Ltd says shareholders are unlikely to achieve a better return on their investment than the $171 million AGL Energy Ltd takeover offer given the company's future capital requirements.
Drawing The Line
Date: Mon 19-Jan-09
Author: Frances Thompson (The Herald)
From the Herald's H2 Feature: As companies gear up to chase the wealth of natural resources around Gloucester, residents are preparing to fight them to maintain their rural lifestyle. Frances Thompson reports.
Birds in Backyards Members Competition
Date: Mon 19-Jan-09
Author: Holly Parsons (Birds Australia)
I wanted to remind you all that the Birds in Backyards Member Competition is closing soon. You have until the 30th of January to get your entries in.
$750m Hunter power station plans shelved
Date: Thu 15-Jan-09
Author: ABC News
The recent takeover of a company planning to build a $750 million gas-fired power station in the New South Wales Hunter Valley may have contributed to the project's demise.
Wollombi Valley Online Case Study
Date: Wed 14-Jan-09
Author: auCD
A case study of this website on the .au Community Domains Trust (.auCD) Website
Hunter tech college campuses merge
Date: Wed 14-Jan-09
Author: ABC News
The Hunter region's three Australian Technical College (ATC) campuses have been merged into one in order to secure the financial future of the training facility. The Singleton and Newcastle campuses have closed and the purpose-built facility at Maitland will now handle all enrolments.
Rescue - Summer 2009
Date: Wed 14-Jan-09
Author: WRHS
The newsletter of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service - In this issue: New Building opened with support of local community and building sector; CountryLink partners; Ritchies IGA - new crew sponsor; Mission Report; From the stretcher...
The Cockfighter - January 2009
Date: Sat 10-Jan-09
Author: The Cockfighter
Volume 7 - Issue 1 - Linking the communities of Broke, Fordwich, Bulga and Milbrodale
Boomi showcases its vibrant and energetic community
Date: Fri 09-Jan-09
Author: .au Community Domains
Although a small town, Boomi showcases its vibrant and energetic community at their new home on the net
Fire service hopes to extinguish Howes Valley blaze
Date: Fri 09-Jan-09
Author: ABC News
Firefighters today hope to extinguish a bushfire that has burnt out almost 3,000 hectares of national park south of Singleton.
Rural Fire Service struggles to contain NSW fires
Date: Thu 08-Jan-09
Author: ABC News
The New South Wales Rural Fire Service is still struggling to control two fires in remote bushland. Hot, windy weather has fire crews struggling to contain a fire that has burnt out around 600 hectares at Wingacaribee, in the Southern Highlands. They are also attempting to contain another blaze at Yengo National Park in the upper Hunter.
Ducks 4 Dollars
Date: Wed 07-Jan-09
Author: Ducks 4 Dollars
Since 2004 the EnergyAustralia Ducks 4 Dollars Australia Day event has raised more than $100,000 for the Hunter's Surf Clubs and the community's own Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service. The cooperative fundraising event is held annually from 10.30am at Queens Wharf in Newcastle on Australia Day (26 January).
Catchment News - Issue 13 - January 2009
Date: Wed 07-Jan-09
Author: Phoebe Trongchittham
The January edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
Hot and windy: No relief for NSW firefighters
Date: Wed 07-Jan-09
Author: ABC News
Firefighters in New South Wales are continuing to battle two large bushfires, one of which has been declared an emergency situation.
AGL Energy raises stake to take control of Sydney Gas
Date: Wed 07-Jan-09
Author: Matt Chambers (Australian)
AGL Energy has taken just over a week to secure control of Sydney Gas in its $187 million cash takeover bid. With chances of a higher bidder emerging dwindling, AGL yesterday revealed it had moved to a 54 per cent stake in Sydney Gas (SGL).
NSW firefighters battle three bushfires
Date: Tue 06-Jan-09
Author: ABC News
Nine helicopters and planes are water bombing three bushfires around New South Wales. Remote area firefighters are attacking a fire in the Yengo National Park, near Howes Valley in the Hunter Valley, on foot...
Firefighter collapses in Howes Valley blaze
Date: Tue 06-Jan-09
Author: ABC News
The Rural Fire Service (RFS) in New South Wales says the collapse of a volunteer while fighting a blaze in the Hunter Valley yesterday, indicates the arduous conditions facing fire crews on very hot days.
Save Cunneens Bridge - Your community needs you
Date: Tue 06-Jan-09
Author: Paul Budde
A media release from Paul Budde for the Cunneens Bridge Group regarding the three Cessnock Council options (as published in OON)
Tennis & Croquet Club White Elephant Stall
Date: Mon 05-Jan-09
Author: WTCC
Wollombi Tennis & Croquet Club's White Elephant Stall Monday 26 Jan - Donations appreciated
New Years Eve
Date: Sat 03-Jan-09
Author: Sally Sullivan
Wollombi Tavern was the place to be as '09 loomed under the light of the Black Jack Moon.
Carols at The Bucketty Wall 2008
Date: Wed 24-Dec-08
Author: Caroline Maul
We once again had a great fundraiser for the Rural Bush Fire Brigade in the spirit of Christmas.
Planet Ark launches Aluminium Can Recycling Campaign
Date: Tue 23-Dec-08
Author: Amy Nancarrow (Planet Ark)
The Aluminium Can Group and Planet Ark are pleased to announce the launch of the Aluminium Can Recycling Campaign, encouraging Australians to consider the positive environmental benefits of recycling. Join Layne Beachley, Planet Ark and millions of other Australians in combating climate change.
Sydney Gas, AGL statements pending - Trading Halted
Date: Tue 23-Dec-08
Author: LiveNews - AAP
AGL Energy Ltd has requested a trading halt on its shares pending an announcement about a material transaction. Earlier on Tuesday, Sydney Gas Ltd has requested a trading halt on its shares pending an announcement about a takeover bid.
Merry Christmas from Birds in Backyards
Date: Mon 22-Dec-08
Author: Holly Parsons (Birds Australia)
All of us from Birds in Backyards would like to wish all our members a very merry and safe Christmas. Our December e-newsletter is now available for you to download
Christmas Special Offer from Noyce Bros. Wines
Date: Fri 19-Dec-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Stock Clearance: 1 red and 3 lovely whites - all under $10
Early Christmas present for Millfield residents
Date: Fri 19-Dec-08
Author: Peter Firminger
The Sydney Gas Investor Update December 2008 by Andy Lukas - CEO indicates a "proposed corehole" in Millfield.
WAGE Tee Shirts
Date: Thu 18-Dec-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Tee Shirts are now available for $20 from Wollombi General Store and The Old Northern Trading Post at Laguna.
Be green on the go this festive season!
Date: Wed 17-Dec-08
Author: Michelle Cook (Planet Ark)
With all the shopping, cooking, decorating and preparations that take place prior to Christmas there doesn't leave much time for anything else. It's important to remember the environment when planning your Christmas and holidays and now with Planet Ark's first ever podcast, you can learn how to be environmentally responsible while you're on the go.
Public Exhibition of 3 Cunneens Bridge Alignment Options
Date: Mon 15-Dec-08
Author: Darren McKimm (Cessnock Council)
Cessnock City Council has three possible bridge alignments on public exhibition from the 12 December 2008 to 19 January 2009 (extended to 4 Feb). This will enable the public to view and comment on their preferred replacement option.
Nine Christmas Readings and Carols at St Johns 2008
Date: Sun 14-Dec-08
Author: Caroline Maul
Christmas Carols at St Johns is always special, this year the church was full and the we were very privileged to have Allegra Francesca Giagu sing.
Estimated Carbon Footprint of Sydney Gas and AGL in the Hunter
Date: Sun 14-Dec-08
Author: Peter Firminger
The estimates being spun by Sydney Gas for their predicted output of Methane from the Hunter Valley show an Ugh Boot shaped carbon footprint...
Which is true Mr Lukas?
Date: Sat 13-Dec-08
Author: Peter Firminger
In the initial Wollombi Hall meeting, the chair of the meeting stated that the people of Wollombi were confused by mis-information in the community and that the meeting was to sort out the confusion.
Cunneens Bridge Action
Date: Thu 11-Dec-08
Author: Newcastle on Hunter
The Wollombi community will organise a bliz campaign to save one of the last remaining timber bridges along the Great North Road. People are asked to send their support for the upstream option to the Cessnock Councillors
Wollombi Valley Arts Council - Arts News
Date: Wed 10-Dec-08
Author: Bronnie Aliotti
The December/January Newsletter from WVAC: The WVAC is pleased to invite members of our community to an informative seminar on the aboriginal history of the Wollombi @ Laguna Hall @ 4.00pm on 14 February 2009.
The Country Woman - December 2008
Date: Wed 10-Dec-08
Author: CWA of NSW
Official Publication of the Country Women's Association of New South Wales - December 2008/January 2009 Volume 49 No 06
The Fault Line 5
Date: Wed 10-Dec-08
Author: Sean Gough
Issue No. 5 December 2008 - Acting on behalf of WAGE, the Environmental Defender's Office has written to the Minister of Primary Industries identifying various defects and omissions found in the Review of Environmental Factors that was submitted by Sydney Gas with their application to drill in the Wollombi Valley and elsewhere.
You're the 'tops' SGL- spinning nothing into a web of myths
Date: Wed 10-Dec-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Sydney Gas is spinning a beautiful web of myths to the industry to try and look like they are going places...
Catchment News - Issue 12 - December 2008
Date: Thu 04-Dec-08
Author: Phoebe Trongchittham
The December edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
Condobolin Community Website
Date: Tue 02-Dec-08
Author: auCD
Condobolin now has its geographical home on the internet
Coal Seam Gas In The Hunter Valley
Date: Sun 30-Nov-08
Author: Big Gav
While most of the coal seam gas action is taking place up in Queensland it is likely that there are significant amounts in NSW as well. Quoll Tracks points to a local media report about Sydney Gas' exploration success - Poor fellow my valley!
Valley's $10bn methane gas find
Date: Sat 29-Nov-08
Author: Matthew Kelly (The Herald)
AN estimated $10 billion worth of coal-seam methane gas or enough gas to supply Sydney for the next 150 years has been found beneath the Hunter.
Wollombi Business Breakfast Meeting
Date: Wed 26-Nov-08
Author: Caroline Maul
The Business Breakfast Meeting was held at Capers Guesthouse Wollombi.
Landcare newsletter for December 2008
Date: Tue 25-Nov-08
Author: Graham Taylor
Please find attached a copy of the Landcare newsletter for December in PDF format.
Miss Cessnock Quest 2008
Date: Sat 22-Nov-08
Author: Caroline Maul
Miss Cessnock Quest 2008, Our local Emma Sullivan was a great entrant.
State Tourism Awards 2008
Date: Sat 22-Nov-08
Author: Caroline Maul
Regional NSW Tourism Award Winners 2008, with a Silver Award going to Somewhere Unique of Wollombi.
Yet another SGL Board Change...
Date: Thu 20-Nov-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Sydney Gas announces new Chairman and Board renewal Thursday, 20 November 2008
Opportunity for Aboriginal community to work more closely with the wider Casino community
Date: Wed 19-Nov-08
Author: auCD
The new Casino community website has been launched this week at casino.nsw.au to encourage greater cooperation and act as an all-encompassing voice of the NSW town.
Wollombi Tidy Valley's Project Update
Date: Tue 11-Nov-08
Author: Caroline Maul
Wollombi Tidy Valley's Project Update on Anzac Reserve Banksia.
Raising The Flag on Remeberance Day 2008
Date: Tue 11-Nov-08
Author: Caroline Maul
Wollombi Tidy Valley Team raised The Flag at Anzac Reserve Wollombi today.
Birds in Backyards Research Projects
Date: Tue 11-Nov-08
Author: Holly Parsons (Birds Australia)
As spring draws to a close, we hope you have been or will be sending us some surveys telling us about the birds that are making your garden their homes this year. We also have a special request for extra assistance with two research projects being conducted by students in biology at the University of Sydney.
The Blessing of the Fleet
Date: Mon 10-Nov-08
Author: Graham Jackson
The first Blessing of the Fire Fleet of the Cessnock area occurred in January 1997.
Temporary road closure options for Paynes Crossing Rd - Community Consultation
Date: Wed 05-Nov-08
Author: Darren McKimm (Cessnock Council)
Temporary road closure options for Paynes Crossing Road from Williams Bridge to 700m south (towards Wollombi) for road construction works
Catchment News - Issue 11 - November 2008
Date: Tue 04-Nov-08
Author: Phoebe Trongchittham
The November edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
Valley's choice: Gas or the GP
Date: Sun 02-Nov-08
Author: Clair Weaver (Sunday Telegraph)
An article from the Sunday Telegraph on 2 October
From the Far End of the Council Table
Date: Tue 28-Oct-08
Author: Councillor James Ryan
It was a mixed grill at the Cessnock Council meeting last week. There was lots of argy bargy over a proposal to develop a put-put golf course in the vineyards.
Wollombi Valley Short Film Festival on YouTube
Date: Tue 28-Oct-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Most of the films from the 2008 Wollombi Valley Short Film Festival are now available online...
So near and yet so far
Date: Sat 25-Oct-08
Author: Louise Southerden (SMH)
It doesn't take long before you feel like a local in this friendly country town, writes Louise Southerden.
Rescue - Spring 2008
Date: Wed 22-Oct-08
Author: WRHS
The newsletter of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (2.56MB PDF)
Gas Watch 53
Date: Fri 17-Oct-08
Author: HBGAG
News from the Hunter-Bulga Gas Action Group
Cartoon
Date: Fri 17-Oct-08
Author: A Non
In response to comments from Sydney Gas and AGL
The Fault Line 4
Date: Fri 17-Oct-08
Author: Sean Gough
October update regarding Sydney Gas and AGL and their continuing efforts to drill for METHANE GAS in the Wollombi Valley
Statements in stained steel
Date: Thu 16-Oct-08
Author: Rosalie Higson (The Australian)
PAUL Selwood's sculptures are constructed from a single sheet of steel: cut, folded and twisted into itself. His work can appear to have the fragility of paper or the monumental dignity of a sandstone escarpment.
Sydney Gas AGL Core Hole Update
Date: Tue 14-Oct-08
Author: Peter Firminger
A Sydney Gas propaganda sheet showing maps of the immanent further invasion on Wollombi
WVPA Recreation and Open Space Priorities Survey
Date: Mon 13-Oct-08
Author: Wollombi Valley Progress Association
Progress is conducting this survey to help identify the priorities for children and adults in the Wollombi Valley to safely enjoy a more active lifestyle.
GAS WATCH 52
Date: Mon 13-Oct-08
Author: HBGAG
On its website, this controversial player in the release of METHANE gas from coal seams has placed on its website, finally, "Some actions and answers", a copy of a presentation made to the last meeting of the Community Consultative Committee.
The Country Woman - October 2008
Date: Fri 10-Oct-08
Author: CWA of NSW
Official Publication of the Country Women's Association of New South Wales - October/November 2008 Volume 49 No 05
HBGAG Response to 'raising few complaints'
Date: Thu 09-Oct-08
Author: Graeme Gibson
"This claim by controversial methane explorer, Sydney Gas Ltd, is far from the truth. It appears that Sydney Gas will say anything to try and justify its drilling program right next to the vineyard village of Broke" says spokesman for the Hunter Bulga Gas Action Group, Graeme Gibson.
Hunter drilling 'raising few complaints'
Date: Wed 08-Oct-08
Author: ABC News
Sydney Gas says it has had very few complaints about its exploratory gas drilling in the Hunter Valley, even though vandals have sprayed graffiti at the site of one drilling rig.
Recycle glasses for good cause
Date: Tue 07-Oct-08
Author: eyesmart.com.au
Hunter Resource Recovery has joined forces with the Lions Recycle for Sight Australia to recycle eye glasses from homes in the Council areas of Cessnock, Lake Macquarie and Maitland.
Catchment News - Issue 10 - October 2008
Date: Sat 04-Oct-08
Author: Phoebe Trongchittham
Organisation: CMA
The October edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
Includes 'Waging war on weeds in Wollombi'
A good year
Date: Sat 04-Oct-08
Author: Peter Firminger
wollombi.nsw.au and wage.org.au stats for the first twelve months since we went live
Bush Telegraph Magazine - Spring 2008
Date: Wed 01-Oct-08
Author: Bush Telegraph
Stories from the Spring 2008 edition of Bush Telegraph Magazine - NSW Department of Primary Industries.
Archaelogical Dig is in process at Cunneens Bridge
Date: Wed 01-Oct-08
Author: Caroline Maul
Archaelogical Dig is in process at Cunneens Bridge
Landcare Newsletter October 2008
Date: Wed 01-Oct-08
Author: Graham Taylor
Please find attached a copy of the Landcare newsletter for October in PDF format.
Female mayor for Singleton
Date: Tue 30-Sep-08
Author: ABC News
History has been made in Singleton overnight with the election of the shire's first female mayor.
Bishop's Mass 2008
Date: Sat 27-Sep-08
Author: Francisca Maul
Saint Michael's had their annual visit from Bishop Michael Malone.
Sydney Gas Director sells out as price plummets
Date: Fri 26-Sep-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Sydney Gas Director Warren David Murphy sold his entire holding of 500,000 shares for $156,523.72 on 19 September 2008.
Sanctuary Villages Now Up for Public Comment
Date: Wed 24-Sep-08
Author: Tim Plater
Greens call for objections to 700 house subdivision at Paxton-Millfield
Upcoming EnergyAustralia Helicopter Patrol
Date: Wed 24-Sep-08
Author: Jo Bailey
Livestock Warning
Council Elections Finalised
Date: Mon 22-Sep-08
Author: Peter Firminger
The Cessnock Council Election has finally been counted and posted by the Electoral Commission and the Singleton positions were declared on 18 Sept.
Birds in Backyards e-Newsletter
Date: Thu 18-Sep-08
Author: Holly Parsons (Birds Australia)
Well we are thrilled to announce that Birds in Backyards was the winner of the 2008 Alan
Strom Eureka Prize for Environmental and Well spring has sprung, birds are busy collecting nesting materials and it is time for your new e-Newsletter.
Cessnock rally part of Hupmobile centenary
Date: Wed 17-Sep-08
Author: The Advertiser
Cessnock will be the venue next week for the National Hupmobile Rally featuring beautifully restored vehicles made between 1908 and 1941. On Monday, September 22 2008 the vehicles will travel along Vincent Street, through to Kitchener and Quorrobolong, finishing at historic Wollombi for lunch and an inspection of the museum.
Independent wins Cessnock mayoral seat
Date: Wed 17-Sep-08
Author: Paul Maguire (The Herald)
LONG-STANDING independent in Cessnock Alison Davey has won the city's mayoral seat from the Labor Party. The final vote count was released last night, leaving Mrs Davey with a total of 10,844 votes, ahead of Labor candidate Bob Pynsent by 393 votes. Greens candidate James Ryan was 3579 votes further behind, and Liberal candidate Dale Troy behind again by 1542.
Alison Davey elected Mayor of Cessnock
Date: Tue 16-Sep-08
Author: Peter Firminger
With a total of 10844 votes after allocation of preferences, Independent candidate Alison Davey has been elected Mayor of Cessnock.
Bowraville Community Website
Date: Tue 16-Sep-08
Author: .au Community Domains
The Bowraville Technology Centre is launching Bowraville's new community home on the net today.
Catchment News - Issue 9 - September 2008
Date: Wed 10-Sep-08
Author: Phoebe Trongchittham via Graham Taylor
Organisation: CMA
The September edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
Fears Qld gas project will destroy arable land
Date: Tue 09-Sep-08
Author: Nicole Bond (ABC Radio - PM)
Queensland's resources boom has taken another giant leap forward, but there are fears that it's at the expense of the state's food bowl. The state's gas industry has welcomed a multi-billion dollar investment to extract more gas from underground coal seams.
Plan to mine coal gas off Newcastle coast
Date: Tue 09-Sep-08
Author: Paul Maguire (The Herald)
A MAJOR conservation fight is looming over an energy company's plan to use seismic tests to explore almost 6000 square kilometres of ocean along the Newcastle to Sydney coast in search of coal under the seabed.
Danger signs at Broke drilling
Date: Sun 07-Sep-08
Author: Paul Maguire (The Herald)
HARPER: ...I'd say there is more methane gas coming from cows in the next paddock, or even leaking from the children in the school playground, than coming from our wells.
Charming Mark!
What a weekend!
Date: Sun 07-Sep-08
Author: Peter Firminger
The collapse of Iemma/Costa/Sartor and the access to the Sydney Gas Wollombi 01 Drill Site flooded yet again...
Michael Costa: the free radical
Date: Fri 05-Sep-08
Author: Imre Salusinszky (The Australian)
His hero is Ronald Reagan. He's a champion of privatisation. And don't even get him started on climate change. Labor's great eccentric, NSW Treasurer Michael Costa, talked to Imre Salusinszky in the Magazine in April this year...
In answer to the latest bit of PR released by Sydney Gas
Date: Wed 03-Sep-08
Author: Sean Gough
In answer to the latest bit of PR released by Sydney Gas about the concerns of residents in Broke, it must be said they completely ignore the issues we are most concerned about.
Sydney Gas Test Well Update
Date: Mon 01-Sep-08
Author: Sydney Gas
Broke Presentation On-line, Well proximity and Milbrodale Property purchase
Culture feast at Wollombi
Date: Wed 27-Aug-08
Author: The Advertiser
Wollombi Cultural Centre (WCC) will be hosting some exciting exhibitions over the next few weeks.
Laguna artists Penny Walton and Hadyn Wilson will be holding an exhibition to celebrate the coming of spring.
Wollombi Tidy Valleys host Judges for the 2008 Awards
Date: Tue 26-Aug-08
Author: Caroline Maul
Laguna water sheme Wollombi Valley, Keep Australia Awards 2008. Facilitated by Tidy Valleys and suported by Wollombi Valley Progress Association.
Hunter residents outraged over methane gas exploration
Date: Fri 22-Aug-08
Author: ABC PM
Residents in the New South Wales Hunter Valley are furious about work that's begun in a National Trust conservation area to look for methane gas in coal seams.
So... who was that unmoderated moderator?
Date: Fri 22-Aug-08
Author: Peter Firminger
At the Sydney Gas meeting in Broke on Wednesday evening, the audience was immediately accosted by an aggressive moderator...
Gas Watch 43 - Sydney Gas simply doesn't care!
Date: Wed 20-Aug-08
Author: HBGAG
Controversial methane gas explorer, Sydney Gas, has declared that it will drill on land it has bought right next to the vineyard village of Broke.
Boutique group bands together
Date: Wed 20-Aug-08
Author: The Advertiser
In a move thought to be relatively unique in the Australian tourism industry, the Hunter Valley's finest, luxury, boutique accommodators have joined forces to battle the area's ever expanding resorts and hotels.
Lee Rhiannon Video
Date: Tue 19-Aug-08
Author: Peter Firminger
We have added the first of a number of video feeds from our events and meetings regarding the Sydney Gas invasion of Wollombi Valley and surrounds.
Lee Rhiannon MLC (NSW Greens) speaks at the Laguna Meeting "Why we say NO to Sydney Gas".
Residents to fight Wollombi gas project
Date: Tue 19-Aug-08
Author: Jessica Minshall (2SER)
In a meeting of residents effected by the drilling, Greens MP Lee Rhiannon expressed her support for farmers to take action against the drilling. Sean Gough, from the local campaign group: Wollombi Valley Against Gas Extraction, has encouraged people not to let Sydney Gas onto their properties, and is starting to meet with surrounding communities. He spoke with 2ser's Jessica Minshall.
Flare-up over gas test well near Broke
Date: Sun 17-Aug-08
Author: Paul Maguire (The Herald)
Sydney Gas and AGL will erect a coal seam methane test well on a controversial block of land it has bought on the edge of the village of Broke, near Singleton.
$300 million exploration licence to be granted near Gunnedah
Date: Fri 15-Aug-08
Author: DPI
The NSW Government will grant an exploration licence for the Watermark area near Gunnedah for a period of five years following a rigorous tender process, Minister for Mineral Resources Ian Macdonald said today.
Who's lying?
Date: Wed 13-Aug-08
Author: Peter Firminger
A Sydney Gas update hand delivered the night before the WAGE meeting at Laguna is either calling me or Mark Harper a liar...
Wollombi residents get drill on gas project
Date: Tue 12-Aug-08
Author: Frances Thompson (The Herald)
CIVIL disobedience, such as blockades, should not be ruled out in public protests over the Sydney Gas Lower Hunter gas exploration, residents were told on the weekend.
Upper House Greens MP Lee Rhiannon told a meeting of more than 100 people that laws covering gas and oil searches "lock out" the community and individual property owners.
"One way we can have an impact is when your voice, the public voice, is strong..." she said.
Farewell Reg Lindsay
Date: Tue 12-Aug-08
Author: Donna Sharpe (The Herald)
IT was a fitting send-off for one of the world's leading legends of country music. In a ceremony filled with life stories, applause, tears and song, Golden Guitar and Logie Award winner Reg Lindsay OAM was farewelled in style...
Gas Watch 42
Date: Tue 12-Aug-08
Author: HBGAG
'RIGHT IN YOUR FACE, BROKE'
SYDNEY GAS attitude to picturesque Hunter
Valley Community
Wollombi coal seam methane gas exploration
Date: Sat 09-Aug-08
Author: Lee Rhiannon
NSW Greens MP Lee Rhiannon to speak at public meeting opposing Coal Seam Gas extraction by Sydney Gas in the Wollombi Valley.
Miners to light protest fuse
Date: Fri 08-Aug-08
Author: Bruce McDougall - Daily Telegraph
A MASS protest movement is mobilising to oppose plans to explore for coal-seam methane gas in one of the state's most pristine valleys.
Gas Watch 41
Date: Fri 08-Aug-08
Author: HBGAG
Sydney Gas has bought land in Broke adjacent to the residential area of the village.
Residents unhappy with gas search
Date: Thu 07-Aug-08
Author: ABC News
Residents of the Hunter's Wollombi Valley say the New South Wales Government should never have allowed Sydney Gas to look for coal seam gas deposits in the area.
Response to Mark Harper
Date: Tue 05-Aug-08
Author: Sean Gough
A response to the letter from Mark Harper (General Manager - Sydney Gas) from Sean Gough
Letter from Mark Harper (General Manager Sydney Gas)
Date: Tue 05-Aug-08
Author: Hayley Moffitt (SGL)
A letter in which Mark Harper from Sydney Gas states - 'I must stress that we are not proposing gas production in the Wollombi Valley'
Catchment News - Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority
Date: Tue 05-Aug-08
Author: Phoebe Johnson via Graham Taylor
Organisation: CMA
Welcome to the August edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
Gas Watch 39
Date: Tue 05-Aug-08
Author: Peter Firminger
The publication from Hunter-Bulga Gas Action Group.
Sydney Gas Update on Gas Exploration - 31 July 2008
Date: Thu 31-Jul-08
Author: Dana Hollis (SGL)
From Dana Hollis at Sydney Gas (ASX:SGL): We are pleased to inform you that the drill rig for the core hole at Paynes Crossing was delivered to site today.
Total Environmment Centre on Sydney Gas in Wollombi
Date: Thu 31-Jul-08
Author: Peter Firminger
In relation to Sydney Gas drilling in the Wollombi Valley, the Total Environment Centre says: The Wollombi Valley is an inappropriate location for CSM extraction and therefore exploration...
Gas Watch 38 - There is Always a Risk
Date: Wed 30-Jul-08
Author: HBGAG
The publication from Hunter-Bulga Gas Action Group. Refers to the document Sydney Gas Exploration News July 2008 - also listed
Wyong hydrogeological report by Tim Jones as referred to on ACA
Date: Tue 29-Jul-08
Author: Sean Gough
A report by Northern Geoscience submitted to the Australian Gas Alliance about Sydney Gas drilling in the Wyong area
Replies from Kerry Hickey and Joel Fitzgibbon
Date: Tue 29-Jul-08
Author: Sean Gough
Two replies from invitations to attend the meeting on August 9
Three Sydney Gas Documents
Date: Thu 24-Jul-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Organisation: WAGE
3 documents either supplied by Sydney Gas or downloaded from the ASX Website
Similar issues for Liverpool Plains
Date: Thu 24-Jul-08
Author: A Current Affair - Channel Nine
Organisation: WAGE
A report from A Current Affair on BHP Billiton drilling for coal and Gas around Liverpool Plains
Wollombi film festival celebrates 10 years
Date: Wed 23-Jul-08
Author: Cessnock Advertiser
The Wollombi Valley Short Film Festival is celebrating 10 years of showcasing the work of Hunter filmmakers.
Letter to Verity Firth
Date: Wed 23-Jul-08
Author: Sean Gough
Organisation: WAGE
A letter to the NSW Minister for Climate Change and the Environment
Letter to Peter Garrett
Date: Wed 23-Jul-08
Author: Sean Gough
Organisation: WAGE
A letter to the Federal Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts
Gas Watch 37
Date: Wed 16-Jul-08
Author: HBGAG
Organisation: HBGAG
The publication from Hunter-Bulga Gas Action Group - Quoting the Wollombi Sydney Gas Meeting on July 14 2008
Gas Bonanza
Date: Wed 16-Jul-08
Author: Jamie Freed (SMH)
Organisation: WAGE
Long the Cinderella of the energy sector, coal-seam gas has suddenly emerged as the hot industry every big global player wants to be in - and NSW is the next frontier of the great gas rush. Jamie Freed reports...
Minutes from the second Wollombi Sydney Gas Meeting
Date: Tue 15-Jul-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Organisation: WAGE
These are independant minutes from the Wollombi Valley Chamber of Commerce Meeting with Sydney Gas
Sydney Gas Update
Date: Fri 11-Jul-08
Author: Dana Hollis
Organisation: WAGE
Update for Wollombi and Paynes Crossing Residents
LEP Action Group Letters
Date: Fri 11-Jul-08
Author: Steve Annis-Brown
Organisation: Progress
Two letters have been sent by the LEP Action Group, to Cessnock Council and Frank Sartor.
Catchment News - Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority
Date: Wed 09-Jul-08
Author: Phoebe Johnson via Graham Taylor
Organisation: CMA
Welcome to the July edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
GAS WATCH 36
Date: Sun 06-Jul-08
Author: HBGAG
Organisation: HBGAG
Sydney Gas Exploration threatens water in the Hunter...
Mineral exploration - vital to the future of NSW
Date: Wed 02-Jul-08
Author: DPI
Organisation: WAGE
More than 120 mineral explorers from across Australia will gather at NSW Parliament House today to hear the latest information from geoscience surveys about opportunities in under-explored parts of NSW, Minister for Mineral Resources Ian Macdonald said today.
Response to my email to Dana Hollis
Date: Tue 01-Jul-08
Author: Caroline Maul
Organisation: WAGE
Response to my email to Dana Hollis of Sydney Gas
Mangrove Mountain Community Website
Date: Tue 01-Jul-08
Author: .au Community Domains
Today Mangrove Mountain launched it's Community Website. The facility is managed and operated by the Mangrove Mountain Computer Club, a small group of volunteers who will be continuing to develop the website for their community.
Rescue - Winter 2008
Date: Mon 30-Jun-08
Author: WRHS
The newsletter of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (2.06MB PDF)
Frogs and firefighting benefit from dams
Date: Mon 30-Jun-08
Author: Howard Spencer - Public Affairs & Media - Forests NSW
A practical need to provide firefighting water in a string of dams across State forests in the Watagan forest area west of Newcastle is still delivering results years after they were established.
Cunneens Bridge Replacement Project & Paynes Crossing Rd Upgrading Project, June Update
Date: Sun 29-Jun-08
Author: Darren McKimm (CCC)
Organisation: Progress
Here is an update on the progress of Cunneens Bridge Replacement and Paynes Crossing Road gravel section upgrade.
Upper House Questions without Notice
Date: Fri 27-Jun-08
Author: Graeme Gibson (HBGAG)
Organisation: WAGE
The following question and "answer" occurred in the Upper House yesterday. I have downloaded it from Hansard.
National Tree Day
Date: Fri 27-Jun-08
Author: Planet Ark Tree Day Team
With only one month to go until National Tree Day on Sunday July 27, Planet Ark is encouraging all Australians to get growing!
Response to a question at Cessnock Council re Sydney Gas
Date: Thu 26-Jun-08
Author: James Ryan
Organisation: WAGE
From L Oldfield
Director Infrastructure & Services
Racing spotlight on Jungle Juice Cup
Date: Wed 25-Jun-08
Author: The Advertiser
The racing spotlight will be firmly fixed on Cessnock next Tuesday for the running of the 28th Jungle Juice Cup.
This now time-honoured event has continued to grow in statue and officials are predicting another crowd in the order of five to six thousand to pack the Wine Country Race Club venue for some great racing.
Stop Importation of Savannah Cats
Date: Sun 22-Jun-08
Author: Graham Taylor
You may have seen recent reports on television news programs and other media concerning the proposal to allow 'Savannah Cats' to be imported into Australia without any risk assessment for their potential 'feralness'.
Other newspaper reports
Date: Sat 21-Jun-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Organisation: WAGE
There are other newspaper reports available from the Fairfax News Store for $2.20 each
Cessnock Council - Questions Without Notice - Majors Lane / Cuneens Bridge
Date: Sat 21-Jun-08
Author: CCC Minutes
Following (un-minuted) questions at the Council Meeting on 4 June, Cr Ryan followed up on the effect of Cunnens Bridge funding going to Majors lane repairs
GAS WATCH 33.
Date: Thu 19-Jun-08
Author: Hunter-Bulga Gas Action Group
Organisation: HBGAG
Sydney Gas has failed in community consultation in relation to its recent corehole approvals.
Response to Graeme Gibson from Mark Harper (Acting CEO SGL)
Date: Tue 17-Jun-08
Author: HBGAG
Organisation: WAGE
Mr. Mark Harper, Acting Chief Executive Officer, provides a detailed response to the HBGAG June 6 letter from Graeme Gibson
Gas article in The Herald
Date: Mon 16-Jun-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Organisation: WAGE
Includes quotes from Graham Gibson about the Wollombi meeting
Gas Exploration Update
Date: Sun 15-Jun-08
Author: Dana Hollis (SGL)
Organisation: WAGE
A letter from Sydney Gas
A few questions
Date: Sat 14-Jun-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Organisation: WAGE
I have a few questions to ask of people with interests in the valley.
Business FloodSafe Toolkit from the SES
Date: Thu 12-Jun-08
Author: NSW State Emergency Service
Organisation: SES
Flooding is a real threat to your business. This free online toolkit has been designed by the SES to assist businesses manage the potential impact of floods.
Gas Watch 32 (HBGAG) and a response to Andy Lucas (CEO SGL)
Date: Wed 11-Jun-08
Author: HBGAG (George)
Organisation: HBGAG
The Hunter-Bulga Gas Action Group website has been updated with two new documents
Cessnock Council - Questions Without Notice - Gas Drilling
Date: Wed 11-Jun-08
Author: Cessnock City Council Minutes
Organisation: WAGE
Questions from Cr Davey, Cr Troy and Cr Ryan to Council during the Ordinary Meeting on June 4
Catchment News - Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority
Date: Wed 11-Jun-08
Author: Phoebe Johnson via Graham Taylor
Organisation: CMA
Welcome to the June edition of Catchment News, the newsletter of the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
Village of Hall (ACT) Community Website
Date: Tue 10-Jun-08
Author: .au Community Domains
Village of Hall and District Progress Association in the ACT launches Community Website
Gas Meeting
Date: Sun 08-Jun-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Organisation: WAGE
The Public Information Meeting held yesterday was well attended
More Useful Documents
Date: Sun 08-Jun-08
Author: Dave Burgess
Organisation: WAGE
Three documents supplied by Dave Burgess
Gas Watch No 31 (HBGAG) and other documents - UPDATED
Date: Tue 03-Jun-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Organisation: HBGAG
This document is published by the Hunter Bulga Gas Action Group. It contains some details about the Wollombi and Paynes Crossing sites that will help form required questions for the meeting on Saturday.
Sydney Gas Fact Sheet Extract
Date: Tue 03-Jun-08
Author: Bronwyn Duncan
Organisation: WAGE
The following comes from a paper on the web and parts of it may be pertinent to our community's approach to this issue.
A quote on Drilling
Date: Tue 03-Jun-08
Author: Peter Firminger quoting Ellen Cavalli
Organisation: WAGE
A quote from a blog in the US
Cunneens Bridge Replacement Project & Paynes Crossing Rd Upgrading Project
Date: Sun 01-Jun-08
Author: Kevin Dillon (CCC)
Organisation: Progress
As sent to Progress
Sydney Gas to start drilling near Wollombi and Paynes Crossing
Date: Sun 01-Jun-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Organisation: WAGE
At the May Wollombi Valley Progress Association meeting yesterday, it was mentioned that Sydney Gas are to start drilling near Wollombi and Paynes Crossing...
Bundanoon launch Community Website
Date: Wed 28-May-08
Author: .au Community Domains
Our hopes for the community site at the new CGDN address is to further promote the activities of the community groups currently using the Bundanoon Community Web.
Drought taking toll on Hunter water catchments: research
Date: Fri 23-May-08
Author: ABC News
New research has found climate change and land management practices could be affecting the total amount of ground and surface water in the Hunter.
Water, salinity levels in Hunter linked to climate
Date: Thu 22-May-08
Author: Dr Ben Macdonald - ANU
Climate change and land management practices could be affecting the total amount of groundwater and surface water in the Hunter Valley, and also increasing levels of salinity.
This is the view of researchers from The Australian National University and Southern Cross University who are currently researching the interaction between surface water, groundwater and salinity in the Wybong and Wollombi catchments.
Rescue - Autumn 2008
Date: Fri 16-May-08
Author: WRHS
The newsletter of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (3.42MB PDF)
Convict Trail Working bees
Date: Fri 16-May-08
Author: Elizabeth Roberts
Organisation: Convict Trail
As the end of the financial year approaches I need to hold some working bees to provide, through voluntary labour, our matching dollars for the dollar for dollar grant I have had.
Avoca (Vic) Community Website Launched
Date: Mon 28-Apr-08
Author: .au Community Domains
Another Victorian town has joined the Australian Community Website family...
Why not RU2 Zoning for Wollombi Valley?
Date: Tue 15-Apr-08
Author: Steve Annis-Brown, Paul and Priscilla Flemming
Organisation: Progress
This table summarises some of the many radical differences in permissible land use and activities between RU2 and E3 zones, as so far defined.
Local councils launch grass roots campaign against the state's pro-developer laws
Date: Sun 13-Apr-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Organisation: Progress
Communities could be stripped of as much as $4 million each per year for essential services such as childcare centres, playgrounds and local roads by the State Government's proposed pro-developer laws.
What should new zonings for our district provide for?
Date: Fri 11-Apr-08
Author: Carl Hoipo
Organisation: Progress
Rather than critiquing the draft LEP, I am putting forward my ideas as to what new zonings should allow.
Roadworks information
Date: Thu 10-Apr-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Cessnock Council is now publishing details of maintainance on their website.
Cessnock Draft LEP 2008 - E3 (Environmental Management) Zoning and Heritage Conservation Area
Date: Tue 08-Apr-08
Author: Ray Annis-Brown
Organisation: Progress
These comments are not meant to be taken as professional advice. Rather they are observations by a person of, I hope, average intelligence, with over 50 years experience in the business of Real Estate.
Gum Ball Decision
Date: Tue 08-Apr-08
Author: Cessnock City Council
From the minutes of the Cessnock City Council Meeting 2 April
Gumball Festival canned by council - ABC News
Date: Fri 04-Apr-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Cessnock City Council has defended its decision to refuse an application for a large music festival in the village of Wollombi, just two weeks out from the event.
Local 2020 Summit
Date: Fri 04-Apr-08
Author: Joel Fitzgibbon
The Federal Member for Hunter, Joel Fitzgibbon, would like to invite individuals and community organisations to be part of our local summit to share ideas of how we can make our electorate a better place to live.
Bushfire Danger Period Ends
Date: Fri 28-Mar-08
Author: Cessnock City Council
Fire permits will no longer be required for burning activities after 31 March...
Mayoral Minute No. 4/2008
Date: Mon 24-Mar-08
Author: CCC
Organisation: Progress
The draft Cessnock Local Environmental Plan 2008 which is currently with the Department of Planning (DoP) for consideration prior to going on public exhibition dispenses with the "existing holdings" provisions which have been in existence for many years which in turn removes the right to build a dwelling on those lots affected by these provisions...
CCC - Questions Without Notice - Draft LEP etc.
Date: Sun 16-Mar-08
Author: CCC Minutes
Organisation: Progress
Councillor Besoff advised he had received complaints regarding the new LEP and the potential loss of existing landholder rights and the financial hardships that will cause ratepayers.
CCC Questions without Notice - Yango Creek Road
Date: Sun 16-Mar-08
Author: CCC Minutes
Councillor Besoff advised he had received complaints from residents of Yango Creek Road in regard to the Council work that was done in the area, between Yango Creek Bridge and Dry Arm.
LEP 2008 - March - A Time for Action
Date: Fri 14-Mar-08
Author: Stephen Annis-Brown
Organisation: Progress
Well, you've attended the meeting, you've heard the arguments, you've registered on the web site to be kept up to date with developments and digested all the relevant information, now it's time to take some action!
Steady growth in visitation of Wollombi Valley Online
Date: Sun 02-Mar-08
Author: Peter Firminger
A graphical depiction of the weekly statistics since the Official Wollombi Valley Community Website went live
Wollombi Valley Business Directory Released
Date: Thu 28-Feb-08
Author: Peter Firminger
The first paper edition of the Wollombi Valley Business Directory is now available
Heritage Review Alert!
Date: Wed 27-Feb-08
Author: Elizabeth Roberts (Convict Trail)
Organisation: Convict Trail
You will have heard via the press and radio the Heritage Office is being heavily restructured such that the important role it performs will be severely compromised. Below is a document which the Royal Australian Historical Society is currently sending out to its affiliates by email.
Cessnock LEP 2008 Update
Date: Sun 24-Feb-08
Author: Stephen Annis-Brown
Organisation: Progress
As reported to the Wollombi Valley Progress Association at the meeting on 23 Feb in writing from Stephen Annis-Brown
Amended E3 Zone and Heritage Conservation Area
Date: Sun 24-Feb-08
Author: Ray Annis Brown
Organisation: Progress
When city folk rediscovered Wollombi Valley in the 1960's the wheel had turned full circle...
Post your own comments
Date: Sun 24-Feb-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Many pages, news stories and Snapshot Galley photos now have a Comments form so you can have your say.
Vandalism at Finchley Aboriginal Area
Date: Wed 20-Feb-08
Author: Peter Firminger
The recently added interpretive materials at Finchley Aboriginal Area have been vandalised.
Buninyong Launches Community Website
Date: Mon 18-Feb-08
Author: Peter Firminger
The pretty Victorian township of Buninyong launched its new home on the net yesterday at their Gold King Festival.
Development Proposal - The Gum Ball 2008
Date: Sun 17-Feb-08
Author: Cessnock City Council
The notice from Cessnock City Council
Gum Ball question from Cr Davey to the CCC Meeting, 6 Feb 2008
Date: Thu 14-Feb-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Excerpt from Minutes of the ordinary meeting of the Cessnock City Council on 6 February 2008
Anti-Sartor sentiment grows
Date: Thu 14-Feb-08
Author: Peter Firminger
The Hunters Hill Community website carries an article Courtesy of Northern District Times about Section 94.
"Council reacted angrily to Mr Sartor's plan to swipe this cash, with him being lampooned as the Sheriff of Nottingham and his victims are the forgotten suburbs of Sydney."
Wollombi Australia Day Holiday Markets
Date: Tue 05-Feb-08
Author: Gillian James
This Australia Day market was the best and biggest ever.
Wollombi Village Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan
Date: Sat 02-Feb-08
Author: Cessnock City Council
Council is seeking the community's input in the second phase of a Floodplain Risk Management Study for Wollombi Village.
Narromine launches Community Website
Date: Thu 31-Jan-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Narromine's new home on the net was launched at their Australia Day Activities at their local Showgrounds
Gum Ball Meeting (rough) Notes
Date: Sat 19-Jan-08
Author: Peter Firminger
The Gum Ball Meeting was attended by only eight locals and seemed to be frank and productive.
Dissapearing Building Entitlements, who would lose?
Date: Sat 19-Jan-08
Author: Paul Flemming
Organisation: Progress
As Steve Annis Brown advised in last month's OON, the removal of "existing holding" status would cause major devaluation of some, possibly many, properties in the Valley
Local Environmental Plan Action Group (LEPAGroup)
Date: Thu 17-Jan-08
Author: Peter Firminger
Organisation: Progress
We have added some information about the draft Cessnock 2008 LEP and it's implications to the Wollombi Valley Community
Wollombi goes off with a bang
Date: Thu 03-Jan-08
Author: Peter Firminger
New Years Eve in Wollombi
Wollombi Tidy Valleys at Volunteers Day Celebrations
Date: Wed 05-Dec-07
Author: Caroline Maul
Organisation: Tidy Valleys
Wollombi Tidy Valleys at Volunteers Day Celebrations
Wollombi Business Network Breakfast
Date: Wed 28-Nov-07
Author: Caroline Maul
Elizabeth Roberts spoke on the benefits of marketing Wollombi as a Heritage destination and Carl Hoipo spoke on Museum developments.
Wollombi Museum's Heritage Day
Date: Thu 18-Oct-07
Author: Paul Flemming
Seeing as how we're open every day (or pretty close), we've taken the bold managerial decision to name our traditional open day more appropriately. It's now Wollombi Museum's HERITAGE DAY.
Meeting on Sunday 28 October
Date: Wed 17-Oct-07
Author: Peter Firminger
We are pleased to announce that both the sitting member Joel Fitzgibbon and Greens Candidate Jan Davis have accepted our invitation to speak at the open meeting this Sunday from 5-7pm at Wollombi Community Hall.
Cross Country Golf Day
Date: Wed 10-Oct-07
Author: Caroline Maul
The Stonehurst Cross Country Golf Day event at Cedar Creek raised $4500.00 for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter.
Wollombi Valley Online (Beta) Released
Date: Mon 24-Sep-07
Author: Peter Firminger
Wollombi Valley Online's holding page was removed allowing the site that is in development to be viewed by the public.
Burning Bridges
Date: Fri 16-Sep-05
Author: ABC 7:30 Report
SARAH SCHOFIELD: Locals say they've learned from the Millfield Bridge experience and are now fighting to preserve a smaller wooden bridge near Wollombi.