issue 8: thursday 24 march 2011€¦ · friday 25 src fundraiser monday 28 geography competition...

MERRIWA RINGER Thursday 24 March 2011

Published by: MERRIWA CENTRAL SCHOOL

Bow Street, Merriwa 2329 Ph: 6548 2119 Fax: 6548 2534

Email: [email protected] Online: www.merriwa-c.schools.nsw.edu.au

Issue 8Issue 8: : Thursday 24 March 2011


DISCLAIMER

Views expressed by contributors are not necessarily endorsed by the Publisher, Merriwa Central School. No responsibility is accepted by the Publisher or its

Committee for the accuracy of information contained in articles. The advertising of and use of product names does not constitute recommendations or

endorsement by the Publisher or its Committee. Advertisers indemnify the Publisher and its Committee against all liability claims or proceedings

whatsoever arising from the publication.


MERRIWA CENTRAL SCHOOL

Important Dates

MARCH

Friday 25 SRC Fundraiser

Monday 28 Geography Competition

Thursday 31 Life Education Vaccinations Parent Teacher Interviews Primary 3.30 - 5.30pm Secondary 5.30 - 7.30pm

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT Congratulations to all students who participated in the Rugby League Gala Day in Scone on the Sunday. For a small school it is sometimes difficult to form a team and participate on these days. I thank Mr Johnston for his organisation and all parents who assisted with travel on the day. In the news Our students have been in the news over the past week on two fronts. Firstly our highly successful ROAR program developed by Mr Johnston has been recognised in the State-wide publication “Side by Side” which is distributed to all DET schools. It is fantastic to have this program acknowledged, an initiative from a small school leading the way in innovative educational programs. Secondly, two of our students appeared in the Scone Advocate – Corey Clare and Matthew Orton for their collaboration with the Merriwa Rotary Club. The Rotary Club have been working with students to enhance facilities in the Rotary Skate Park. Last week the group was successful in gaining $10,000 funding for the park from Doyle's Creek Mining. Out and about Students have been busy rehearsing for performances this week at the Kia Ora Music Camp in Scone, and at the Senior Citizens Concert at the RSL. I hope those parents who have the opportunity to see our students perform enjoy the show. Primary Canteen Parents would have received advice from the P&C about the primary canteen being closed this week. The canteen provides a great service to our students however can only operate with the support of parents. I encourage parents to consider lending a hand at the canteen to keep it open. Please contact Maxine Cronin for details.

Year 1/2 Parents of students in Year 1/2 would be aware that Mrs Morgan has been on leave the past few weeks and that Mrs Eipper has been taking the class. I realise students find it difficult when their teacher is away and we have attempted to maintain some consistency with Mrs Eipper taking Year 1/2 until Mrs Morgan returns from leave. If parents have any concerns about their child’s progress during this time please don’t hesitate to give me a call. Parent Teacher Interviews A reminder that parent teacher interviews will be held for all students K-12 next Thursday March 31. This is an additional parent teacher session to previous years and details were published in the Ringer two weeks ago. Primary interviews will take place in the afternoon from 3.30pm, and secondary interviews from 5.30pm. In order to streamline the process interviews are “by appointment” and parents should contact the office staff to book interview times. I encourage all parents to attend.

Darren Noonan Principal



Submitting a Column??

If you have a picture or photo that complements your article, please send

it in as well. We may not always have to room to

fit it in, but we will try!

PRIMARY ASSEMBLY Our assembly on Friday was hosted by Class 1/2. The Year 1/2 students performed the Heel and Toe Polka in front of the school and a large, appreciative group of parents. Learning the dance was part of their HSIE unit of Families Past and Present.

The following students received awards at the assembly:

Year 6 students: Zeb, Breanna, Cody and Ava, Jordan and April proudly display their awards from last week’s assembly.

Paige, Tarah and Shai, Alicia and Emily of Class 4/5 with their awards from the assembly.

Jackson and Sarah, Liana, Tanja and Libbie of Class 3/4 with their assembly awards.

Jack, Ashleigh and Harry, Rebecca, Maddison and Izabella of Class 1/2 with their awards from last week’s assembly.

From K/1: Heath and Jyeson, Kaitlyn, Jye, Nikita and Cody with their assembly awards.

Our next assembly, on 1 April, will be hosted by K/1.

PRIMARY NEWS



CLASS NEWS FROM YEAR 1/2 We have been having a busy time in Year 1/ 2. In handwriting we have been concentrating on our sentence writing, focusing on using capital letters, full stops and leaving gaps between our words. We are writing expositions. The children are enjoying writing about their favourite animals and trying to convince me that cats are better than dogs. In science we are exploring how heating and cooling a food can change its properties and whether that change can be reversed or not. As part of Visual Arts the class have made pictures with cooked spaghetti and constructed towers with marshmallows and uncooked spaghetti. In maths we are concentrating on counting and learning about 2D shapes. The children have enjoyed drawing hexagons and pentagons.

Our most exciting news was the excursion we had to the Merriwa Historical Society. In Human Society and Its Environment (HSIE) we are looking at Families, Past and Present, therefore, we went for a walk down to the Historical Society to see how local families lived and functioned a hundred years ago. We wish to extend a huge thank you to the parents who came and helped on the excursion and a thank you to Mr Baker and Mr O'Neil for sharing their expertise at the Historical Society

Inspired by their visit to t h e m u s e u m , the class performed the Heel and Toe Polka at the a s s e m b l y last week.

J a y d e n a n d J o a n n e e n j o y e d performing at the assembly.

Barbra Eipper

THE JORDAN WALLACE CREATIVITY COMPETITION IS ON AGAIN!

To enter all you’ve got to do is to draw a picture of anything that you want, colour it in, be creative and do the best that you can. Then hand it into your teacher. Don’t forget to make sure that your Name, Year and School are neatly printed on the back. There are 3 shields, 19 trophies and 19 medals to be won. Entries close 1 April 2011.

Ruth Hoye


MERRIWA CENTRAL SCHOOL LIFE EDUCATION VISIT

Healthy Harold will be visiting our school in the Life Education Van on Thursday 31 March and Friday 1 April. Each class will visit the van according to the timetable set out below:

Once again, Mt Arthur Coal has kindly funded our visit to the van so there is no cost involved. However, we will be holding a fundraising function later in the year to help pay the cost for the 2012 visit.

There will be an opportunity when the van is here to purchase “Harold” merchandise. An order form will be sent home next week but the cost of products is listed below:

HOME READERS

Our home readers went out with each child last week. Many thanks go to the parents who heard their children read, and to Jenny, Michael and Lucy who exchanged readers for all of the children and kept track of the returns. Thank you, also, to the parents who took the opportunity to participate in the Home Reader Workshop which was conducted by Mrs McAlister and Miss Temessl. From all accounts, the workshop was a great success. Look out for notification of the maths workshop to be held before the end of Term 1. Please ensure that the readers are returned each week for exchange. If you would like to keep the book for another week as the child has not yet finished reading it, please make a note of that in the comments column. We are aiming for 100% of students reading at home and returning readers each week for exchange. Congratulations to class K/1 who had the best return rate last week. The challenge is out to see if any class can beat them!

Ruth Hoye

Product Price including GST

Tattoo $0.50

Harold Key Ring $2.00

Stationery Set $3.00

Harold Hand Ball $3.00

Harold Soft Toy $8.00

Large Harold Soft Toy $20.00

Product Price including GST

Tattoo $0.50

Harold Key Ring $2.00

Stationery Set $3.00

Harold Hand Ball $3.00

Harold Soft Toy $8.00

Large Harold Soft Toy $20.00

Thursday 31 March

9.30 to 11.00 Year 6

“It’s Your Call”: a unit which deals with decision making, peer pressure and risk taking and drugs.

11.25 to 1.00 Class 4/5

“The Burning Issue”: a unit which deals with the effects of smoking, peer influence and friendship.

2.00 to 3.00 Class K/1

“Harold’s Surprise”: Healthy food choices, the importance of physical activity and safety.

Friday 1 April

9.30 to 11.00 Class 3/4

“Harold’s Diary”: friendship, resilience, healthy food choices and active lifestyles.

11.25 to 1.00 Class 1/2

“Harold’s Heroes”: Environmental health issues, safe use and storage of medicines.


REMINDERREMINDER

The deadline for articles and advertisements for the

Merriwa Ringer is

12 noon Monday

MERRIWA CENTRAL SCHOOL PRIMARY STUDENT OF THE WEEK

This week we would like to recognise and congratulate the following students pictured below who have demonstrated achievement in writing:

Josie Porter K/1 Jasmine Smith 1/2 Ruby Wong 3/4 Joseph Whaley 4/5 Breeanna Goodear 6

Well done everyone. Keep up the terrific effort!

Ruth Hoye

SRC KARAOKE NIGHT A large number of primary students sung their hearts out at the SRC sponsored Karaoke Night on 10 March. The prize winners are pictured below.

Mrs McAlister and Ms Temmessl had the highest score of the night, rocking to an Abba classic.

Overall it was a successful fundraiser for the hard working SRC students, lead by Megan Wightman.

The Primary students had such a good night they have booked another night for later in the year.

Gwen Meyer SRC Liaison Officer

HARMONY DAY This past Monday we were very fortunate to have David Newham from the 100% Knights program visit us for Harmony Day. David shared his cultural heritage and artefacts with students from Years 3 - 9 and also spoke to our students in Years 10 – 12 about goal setting and motivation. At the end of the day David spoke to five of our students about the 100% Knights program and how it could benefit them. We are very fortunate to have these opportunities for our school and both staff and students were highly impressed by the day. David asked me to pass on his thanks to everyone involved in the day as he was very impressed by our school community.

Adam Johnston Deputy Principal



MCS CAREER NEWS

Career Options/Information NIDA Autumn Holiday Program - NIDA Open Program's Autumn Holiday courses are available on weekdays and weekends throughout the holidays running from Saturday 9 April until 21 April. Courses are in Drama, Film Making and TV Presenting at various locations across Sydney. Contact NIDA Open Program for any queries: 02 9697 7626 or visit http://www.nida.edu.au/NidaCustomisation/CourseList.aspx?TYP=235 The National Carers and Employment Expo is run over two days with information on all post HSC opportunities. 1 - 2 April, Exhibition Park in Canberra and Sydney 6 -7 May Sydney Convention Exhibition Centre. For information http://eocexpo.com.au/default.aspx The Science Experience is three days of hands-on science in universities for Year 9 and 10 students. Each program is designed to provide students who have an interest in science with an opportunity to engage in a wide range of science activities under the guidance of scientist. Participants perform experiments in laboratories, meet and hear senior lecturers in the lecture theatres, attend site visits and experience what it is like to be on the campus of a university. The program also provides information about further studies in science technology and engineering. It highlights the wide range of careers that allows students to pursue their interest and abilities in the sciences. Program dates: Macquarie University, Sydney 18-20

January 2012 University of Technology, Sydney 6-8

December 2011 University of New England, University of

New South Wales, University of Sydney, University of Western Sydney, University of Wollongong, to be confirmed.

V i s i t h t t p : / /www.scienceexperience.com.au for more information

The Sydney Morning Herald HSC and Careers Expo 2011 is an important education event for Years 10, 11 and 12 students, their parents. Exhibitors will have information and resources for the HSC; career and study advice; international exchange and GAP year programs; information on Australia’s top universities, TAFE and training colleges; and seminars on HSC subjects and study advice and tertiary courses and careers. Admission $10 per person and $25 per family, valid for three days, including seminars and The Sydney Morning Herald. Friday 3, Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 June, 10am-4pm, The Royal Hall of Industries, Lang Road, Moore Park. Contact 1300 190 290

University/College Open Days The University of New England is hosting a 'Life at Altitude' weekend 5 - 7 May. Campus tours and open day will be on 5 May with the university being open for tours all weekend. Visit www.une.edu.au for more information.

Billy Blue College of Design Open Day 21 May and 17 September. North Sydney Campus. Visit www.billyblue.com.au for information. 171 Pacific Highway, North Sydney.

APM College of Business and Communication Open Day 28 May. Northpoint Campus, 171 Pacific Hwy, North Sydney. (02) 9492 3280 www.apm.edu.au

Williams Business College Open Day 18 June and 19 November at 1 James Place, North Sydney. Visit http://www.williams.edu.au

Sydney Universtity Open day - 27 August Macquarie University Open day - 10

September UTS Open day- 27 August Gap Year Activities Tutors Worldwide offers gap options for those

interested in a gap year in 2012 in schools in the United Kingdom. Last year Tutors Worldwide was able to offer more than 130 tutor placements in UK schools to Australian

SECONDARY NEWS

http://www.nida.edu.au/NidaCustomisation/CourseList.aspx?TYP=235




http://eocexpo.com.au/default.aspx




http://www.scienceexperience.com.au




http://www.apm.edu.au

http://www.williams.edu.au



applicants. For more information visit www.tutorsworldwide.org Application closing date is 14 April. Interviews will occur in April to June at a local venue and places are confirmed by the end of July.

A variety of gap placements are available in

12 different countries that range in duration from 3 to 12 months with Lattitude. Those who are interested need to apply by 22 June for the best chance to secure their preferred placement in 2012. Information nights will be held in May and June. Visit http://www.lattitude.org.au/how-to-apply/attend-an-information-night or visit the website: http://www.lattitude.org.au

Rotary Exchange, a well respected program,

is an ideal way to learn a language and live in a different culture for up to twelve months.

Students need to enquire with their local Rotary Club (Merriwa).

Cadetships Cadetship Evening: Wednesday 18 May from

4.30pm, Sydney Convention Centre. This is a free event for year 12 students to meet and network with about 30 firms that are offering cadetships in 2012. It is an excellent opportunity for students to build contacts, receive the application dates and tips for the recruitment process. Students can register for t h e e v e n t o n l i n e a t www.charteredaccountants.com.au/students

If you require any further information about careers please contact me at school.

Jane Hegarty Careers Advisor

STUDENT OF THE WEEK

Name: Eli Kiely Year Group: 10 Favourite Subject: English Favourite pastime: Soccer Dream Career: Teacher Best school experience: Football Best personal achievement: Winning Science and

Engineering Challenge Advice on how to be organised: Never let yourself be distracted

http://www.lattitude.org.au




http://www.charteredaccountants.com.au/students



MATHS QUEST 2011

In Maths and ICT we are fast coming to the close of first term, with all classes being on track to complete the required schedule of work.

Year 7 students started the year by brushing up on their number skills, building on the basics they learnt in Primary school. A number have come from schools at Sandy Hollow and Cassilis and it’s good to see that they have all settled well into Secondary maths classes here at Merriwa. Students have just completed the second topic for the year on angles and finding compass bearings so they should all be able to measure and draw angles and find their way around.

Year 9 and 10 5.1 pathway have completed two topics: Number Skills and Angles and Shapes. They have recently covered angles in triangles, quadrilaterals and properties of parallel lines. The last part of this chapter was on parts of the circle and I’m sure the hard workers in the class are looking forward to the results of the topic test for this chapter. Year 10 5.2 have completed work on Number Skills and Algebra. Year 10 5.3 pathway started off the year with the difficult topic of Surds & Indices and are far more comfortable with the second topic on Algebra & Linear equations. Both classes have received their Assessment task for this term on Past School Certificate questions relating to these topics. The assessment task is due on 31 March.

ROAR REPORT

Group 21 Schoolboys Knock Out On Sunday we had two sides participate in the Group 21 competition at Scone Park. First team to take the field was the Under 14’s who faced Muswellbrook High School. With students from years 6, 7 and 8 making up our side we were dwarfed by our opponents but certainly didn’t play like it! Jay-me Taylor sliced through the opposition line to score the opening try of the tournament and Lachlan Walmsley was denied the conversion by a very stubborn goal post. All of the players were outstanding, never taking a backward step. Captain Isaac Austin and Josh Constable were inspirational in the way that they attacked the line. The final score line was in favour of Muswellbrook 24 – 4. Jay-

Me Taylor was voted Best on Field and C o n n o r Constable was voted P l a y e r ’ s Player.

The Opens side were in for a real battle against Scone with the winner to advance into the final. Our side had representatives from Year 9 right through to Year 12 and every player should be proud of their contribution. Scone scored early from a mistake but Merriwa hit straight back with a try to fleet footed Shane Doran. The arm wrestle continued with Scone scoring again before Shane Doran bagged his second to see the half time scoreboard read 10-8 in Scone’s favour. Continued raids on the Scone tryline in the second half unfortunately didn’t yield any further points with the final hooter revealing that Scone had won 24-8. Perhaps the biggest bone-cruncher of the tournament went to Captain Jared Austin who followed his own chip kick through a n d ann ih i l a ted the unlucky r e c e i v e r . The roar from the

crowd was deafening! Following the game our Players awards were announced with a very deserving Brady Hilton being voted Best on Field and Shane Doran receiving Player’s Player. I would like to thank all parents, community members, students and staff who participated in the preparation for the Carnival and also those who attended on the day. Your support as always means the world to the students and myself! Thank you.

Adam Johnston



Year 11 General Maths are coming to the end of their lengthy first topic on Measurement. They will be doing both their assessment test this week as well as handing in their Modelling exercise. In the exercise, they were asked to estimate how much it would cost to paint a classroom in the school then measure the classroom and compare their calculations with their estimate. This practical and relevant task should help them consolidate what they have learned in the topic and help them prepare for their Half Yearly exams coming up next term. Next week we will be moving on to the subject of Probability which I'm sure they will enjoy as much as I will.

The Year 9 Information Systems and Technology class has been working consistently on the core content trying to get as much of the theory work done as possible early in the course. This means we will be able to concentrate on some far more exciting project work later in the year. They have also received an assessment task which is due on Friday this week. In it they were given the scenario of

ROAR Athlete Profile

Name: Jay-Me Taylor

Year Group: 8

Favourite Subject: PE

Favourite sport: Footy

Favourite team: Dragons

Favourite player: Darius Boyd

Best personal sporting achievement: Best on field Group 21 Knockout

Advice to young players: If you get knocked down keep going

What has ROAR taught you: No matter how small you are, they all fall the same.

being an IT professional who is required to make a report to management on purchasing new IT hardware for their company. I'm looking forward to seeing their presentations which they will deliver to the rest of the class. I will be going on a tour of Korea during the April holidays so I will bring back plenty of valuable information on mobile networking and robotics from one of the world's most technologically advanced countries, which I can pass on to students in the IST class.

Overall, it’s good to see that all classes have been working hard and are on track to complete the work we need to cover this term. I encourage all students to take advantage of the o n l i n e r e s o u r c e s a v a i l a b l e a t w w w . m a t h s o n l i n e . c o m . a u a n d www.mathletics.com.au for practice and study as they should have passwords for both of these sites.

Warren Coleman

http://www.mathsonline.com.au

http://www.mathletics.com.au


CASSILIS PUBLIC SCHOOL

Senior Citizens Assembly This Friday, 25 March 2011, our school will be holding a Special Assembly to celebrate Senior Citizens Week. Our P&C will be catering for the day by providing a scrumptious lunch for all our guests. The afternoon will then conclude with an assembly to showcase and celebrate the success of our students and to entertain our Special Guests. We invite all members of the community and wider community to join us for this special event. This special occasion will start at 1pm and conclude at approximately 3pm. Easter School Activities It is hard to start thinking about Easter when Easter feels so far away because it is not until the last weekend of the holidays. However, as we only have 3 weeks left of school, planning is well under way for our traditional Easter Celebrations at Cassilis Public School. Easter Service We will be holding our School Easter Service on the last Thursday of school, Thursday 7 April at the Cassilis Catholic Church. We invite all parents, grandparents and community members to join us for this event. Everyone attending the service is invited back to the school to join us for Morning Tea. Easter Hat Parade This year we will once again be having an Easter Hat Parade. The parade will take place after our Special Easter Service and Morning Tea, on Thursday 7 April. We are asking that children make their hats at home this year and bring them to school on Thursday 7 April ready for the parade. We will have some yummy Easter Prizes up for grabs, so let your imagination run wild! We hope that everyone will support this event and we look forward to seeing the great hats that are created!

Easter Raffle The school will be running an Easter Raffle this year. Tickets will be $2 each and the prizes will be a variety of yummy Easter Eggs. Tickets will go home with children today and will also be available to purchase at the shop, the club, at our cross county and at our Senior Citizens Assembly. The raffle will be drawn on Thursday 7 April after our Easter Hat Parade. Easter Raffle Donations To help support our school Easter Raffle we are asking each family to make a small donation of some Easter chocolate that will make up the prizes of our Easter Raffle. If these donations could be brought into school by Thursday the 31 March, this would be a great help. We once again thank you for your continued support and generosity. It is greatly appreciated. Fire Drill Today the children took part in a practice Fire Drill. These practices are a mandatory requirement and are an important part of insuring that children know the procedure if there is a fire danger at school. Today the children were taken through the procedure and shown exactly what to do in a fire emergency. This was especially important for our new Kindergarten Students. Veg Watch This year we have once again been lucky enough to secure a place in the Veg Watch Initiative. This involves children completing a number of activities related to our local and natural Flora and Fauna. Our first session will be held this Wednesday 23

March, starting at 11:30 and continuing for the rest of the day. The sessions will be held in Ant Martin’s property just over the back school fence. Can all parents please ensure that students have their school hat and a drink bottle on this day.


CASSILIS PUBLIC SCHOOL

Excursion Note Last week, an Expression of Interest note was sent home to families who had students in 3 -6, about our annual school excursion. This year we are looking to make a journey to Canberra. This would be a great opportunity for our students.

We are asking that all families return their note as quickly as possible so further planning can begin.

If you have misplaced your note, please come and see a staff member for a new one.

Cross Country Our School Cross Country is only a couple of weeks away, being held on Friday 1 April.

We have had great response from the surrounding schools that are joining us for this event and we are looking forward to seeing everyone again this year! The P&C will be running a canteen on the day and a lunch order form is attached to this newsletter Healthy Harold Healthy Harold will be visiting our school next Tuesday 29 March. We are all looking forward to seeing him and his helper once again this year. Information on merchandise will hopefully be coming our way very soon. This year Healthy Harold is generously sponsored by ‘Coal and Allied’. School Contribution Thank you to all the parents who have sent in their School Contribution for 2011. Your quick response has been greatly appreciated. Have a fantastic week!

Liz Leman Relieving Principal

Take Home a Big Brother or Big Sister Give your children the wonderful opportunity to have an international big brother or big sister by hosting one of our exceptional international

students arriving in Australia in July for their 5 or 10 month programs. Our international students from France, Germany, Italy, and the Scandinavian countries will live as a local, attend a local secondary school, arrive with their own spending money and comprehensive insurance cover – all arranged by Southern Cross Cultural Exchange. Visit us at w w w . s c c e . c o m . a u , e m a i l [email protected] or call us toll free on 1800 500 501, request our little booklets of international student profiles, and capture the spirit of family and friendship!

K-2 News Spelling and Sound Work This week Kinder will be learning the sounds ’Gg’ and ‘Oo’. Year 1 will be looking at the long ‘OO’ sound and Year 2 will be looking at ‘soft G’. Kindergarten Tricky Words are ‘a’ and ‘the’ while Year 1 Tricky Words are also ‘a’ and ‘the’. Year 2 Tricky Words are ‘March’ and ‘April’.

Maths This week in Maths students will be looking at position. For Kinder students this will involve using everyday language to describe the position of an object, for year 1 students this involves describing the path from one location to another and year 2 students will be reading and constructing simple maps and plans e.g. map of their bedroom.

HSIE Last week in HSIE students continued their unit on ‘School Days’ by focusing on one area of the school- the playground and considering whether or not that area needed more trees. Students created a poster indicating their opinion. This week students will begin to look at the roles and responsibilities of themselves and others in the school.

Awards Last weeks Homework Award went to Lauren Corr and the Good Behaviour Award went to Stella Mason. Keep up the great work!

Have a wonderful week ahead everyone!

Katrina Hodgson, K-2 Classroom Teacher

https://staffowa.det.nsw.edu.au/owa/redir.aspx?C=4d92979e1910403ea2ea231042de3c32&URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.scce.com.au%2f

https://staffowa.det.nsw.edu.au/owa/redir.aspx?C=4d92979e1910403ea2ea231042de3c32&URL=mailto%3ascceaust%40scce.com.au


ST JOSEPH’S PRIMARY SCHOOL

It has been a festive week this week as we have celebrated the feast days of St Joseph and St Patrick. Both saints have great significance to both our school and the Catholic tradition. Thursday saw many teachers and student sporting all manner of green fashion in honour of St Patrick, none more than Mr Lannen, the somewhat larger than life green leprechaun. The parents and parishioners got in to the action also at the annual St Patrick’s Day Parish/school dinner. Friday was the feast of St Joseph which we celebrated with a beautiful Lenten Mass at noon with the parish. St Joseph is a very good role model for us all as he was a hard worker and he always tried to what was asked of him by God. His life was not an easy one and he had his own plans disrupted often, yet he remained faithful to God. The Parish–School dinner was a resounding success with record numbers in attendance.

T h e R S L r e s t a u r a n t s e r v e d a beautiful roast dinner and a very green meringue pie,

keeping to the St Patrick’s theme. The restaurant was very tastefully decorated in theme by Marie Scott and her team of helpers including ex student Annaleise Carrigan. John Lannen did

a wonderful job of preparing the Trivia questions and Sr Brigid prepared a fantastic Irish set of questions. There was no one who left the evening without having a great social time and a better general knowledge of Ireland. Thank you to every one who attended the evening and to Marie and John for their brilliant organisation and to the many helpers along the way. Welcome Mrs Cherie Millgate who has recently joined our staff at St Josephs. Cherie is employed as a learning support assistant and will be working closely with Mrs Tanya Ninness and Mrs Megan Moore, our dynamic learning support team. Reading skills are on the rise with the implementation of the St Joseph’s Sights and Sounds program. Thank you to the team of generous parents and friends who are assisting the children on a daily basis. The children love to see their mums, dads and grandparents and friends at school and what better way is there than to be part of such an essential learning process. We even have parents assisting in the library this year..what a treat. Quality teaching and learning is always at the forefront of our planning at St Joseph’s. Last week Mrs Peebles and I went to the Catholic Schools Office, to participate in a 2 year leadership programme on Quality Teaching, with Professor Jenny Gore from the University of Newcastle. We are very excited about the programme are working closely with the teachers at school to ensure the principles of the Quality Teaching Framework are guiding our practice. This week the children will have a free day on Wednesday as the teachers attend


ST JOSEPH’S PRIMARY SCHOOL

a day with the very highly acclaimed New Zealand professor John Hattie. We will find out what the research says about student learning and what impacts upon it in both a negative, positive and neutral manner. Count Me In Too Maths training last week was attended by Mrs Healy and Miss Sullivan. All infants and lower primary teachers in our school have this important training. The Newcastle Herald competition is in full swing and our young journalists are out and about collecting information for their articles. Thank you to the many community businesses who have patiently agreed to being interviewed. This whole process is a tremendous learning experience for our children as it makes their writing relevant to real life. They have learned many lessons over the years our school has been involved and as a result the standard is improving greatly. It is a tremendous boost to the children and their teachers when the community supports them in this difficult task. Last week we were all buoyed by this email received from the Kemp family. Chris and I just wanted to say how very impressed we are that the children of St Josephs’ have chosen such an important subject matter to cover for their entry into the forthcoming Newcastle Herald School competition. Please pass on our congratulations and pride to all involved in the article and our very best wishes for every success in the competition.

Thank you Chris and Amanda Gymnastics is the focus PE this half of the term. The children have really enjoyed the experience

and are developing great skills. The photos below show some of the primary children. Next week we will feature infants’ activities. Canteen day is buzzing with parent helpers on Wednesdays and Brooke

our new Canteen coordinator has some great

ideas for healthy lunch options. Thank you Megan for all your hard work in the past. We have enjoyed your beautiful cooking. Thanks also for your fabulous efforts for a Harmony Day menu last week. School Vegie gardens are ready for the next planting. Thank you to Mr Roger Moore for the load lovely rich soil. We appreciate your contribution to our efforts to be a sustainable community. Congratulations to the following award winners. K Thomas Hunt – Working well in class Amy Redgate - Working well with sight words 1/2 Claudia Frampton for always trying her best when sounding out words Chloe Towell for fantastic participation in SWELL 3/4 Eliza Peebles – for her settled approach in all KLAs Tamasyn McNaught – for her excellent work in Maths activities 5/6 Peita Cassar: for a fantastic effort in learning her 7 times tables. Thomas Nairne: for making a fabulous effort in his persuasive writing. Principal’s Awards: Darcey Priest for settling into school so well. Sam Nairne for his wonderful attitude to work and to school.

Helen Whale


MERRIWA PRE-SCHOOL

Family Portraits Merriwa Pre-school is hosting a family portrait photography day on Saturday 2 April.

Only $20.00 secures an appointment time and includes a complimentary 10X13” Framed Colour or Black & White Portrait (limit to one per person or family). Additional portrait packages start from $45.00. JASPA 3 pose package consisting of 27 prints plus a high resolution CD Rom of all your family portraits is only $220.00. (make your own photo books, calendars and canvas prints ) “Great Mothers Day Gift Idea” “Weather permitting Portraits can be taken outdoors”

Bookings can be made through the Pre School on 65482083 - $20 must accompany booking. No need to have child at Pre-school to make a booking. All welcome.

“I Belong” As part of National Quality Standards (preparing for accreditation) as well as the Early Years Learning Framework, Leah, Jessyca and I have begun reflecting on our practices, currently concentrating on ways we currently create feelings of “Belonging” for our children. We are also looking at how we can increase feelings of “belonging” for our children. Currently, we are trying hard to learn the names of all new parents, working on developing relationships as we get to know your child, sharing the daily diary, providing the afternoon slide show, having photographs of the children and their names around the room, talking with parents about their child on drop off and collection, inviting families to our recent “Welcome BBQ” as ways that we try to create a sense of belonging.

If you think of any ways that we could help each child (or parents!) feel they belong at pre-school, we’d love you to share it with us!

Firstly, and most importantly, children belong in their family. We are inviting parents to prepare an A4 page (to enclose in their child’s Portfolio) which relates to their own family. Here’s a chance to have some fun at home with your child.

On an A4 page, just include a family photo, mention the special people in it, and perhaps you could mention any pets at home, or anything special you would like to share with us, about your family. You may even mention the names of other extended family members who are important to your child

We originally planned on preparing it ourselves, but after discussion, thought it would actually be more meaningful for the child and parent, if you created it together. It will serve as a future talking point for us to share with your child, as well as a wonderful memory for your child of doing this task together. If you want to get creative……feel free, or, if you want a template, or suggestions, just ask us. It’s not meant to be a burden, but some fun to have together. Just something basic is all that’s needed.

We’ve never asked parents to actively contribute to their child’s Portfolio, but we thought of lots of positives for the child and adult to work on this together, and then for it to become part of their identity at pre-school. We’re quite excited to invite you to become involved! Have fun!

Jill, Leah and Jessyca


PAPA Equitor 2928 son - Growth Trait Leader - he sells. Vemilion Yellowstone daughter - she sells with bull calf at foot

Phillip & Wendy Morton 02 6585 8090

www.willsbroangus.com.au Tony Inder 0427 485 100

Angus Stewart 0427 751 009

Complete Stud Dispersal Wednesday 30 March 2011 - Dunedoo Sale Yards 1pm

An opportunity to replace you old bulls

33 x 20 month old Bull will sell Also selling 2 HBR “Trait Leader” Sires

70 HBR Cows with calves 20 HBR 2009 Drop Heifers

Plus over 500 straws semen & over 200 frozen embryos

A complete listing is available on our website, Or phone for a printed catalogue.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our clients for their support over the years.


MERRIWA ACTIVITY CENTRE After School and Vacation Care Catering for 5 – 12 year olds

Cake Stall/ Sausage Sizzle On Saturday 26 March (election day), Pre-school/MAC and the committee will be holding a cake stall and sausage sizzle fundraiser in the Preschool Grounds Please pop in and have a look as we will have lots of delicious goodies to sell. What a great way to top off your voting experience. April Holidays Vacation time is getting closer. We have been busy putting together another exciting program. Our excursion this April will be to Fighter World at Williamtown. We also have another special treat planned for the same day but we won’t give the secret away just yet. Watch this space!! As usual, during vacation care we will be having a special theme food day. This time around it is an American Cafe lunch. The children will have a choice of hamburgers or hot dogs plus hot chips and a milk shake. The children are involved in the preparation and serving of the food. We are sure this will appeal to most of our MAC children. First Aid Course Some of our staff are due to renew their first aid certificate or do the CPR component of the course. We have made some enquiries and, to have a trainer come to Merriwa, we need to have at least 10 paid up people who require the full certificate. If we cannot get 10 we will have to travel to Muswellbrook and join another group. If you are interested in joining us please call MAC (preferably after 2pm) to register your interest. We are looking to hold the course in April. Answering Machine Messages When contacting the centre and leaving a message we ask you please mention the time and date/day you called. Our machine does not automatically record this information and we want to be certain we follow your instructions correctly. It also saves us having to call you back and interrupting your activities.

What is on at MAC next Week? As always, there will be lots of great activities, including cooking, craft, games, and other fun things on the program for next week. A program is always displayed in the MAC room so the children can see what is scheduled for the afternoon. We often ask the children for their input on the weekly programs and we try and accommodate their ideas. Out of centre excursions have been a big hit. Last Thursday we walked along the path beside the river and it was a perfect opportunity just to chat with each other. We also saw lots or tortoises and wonderfully intricate spider webs. We talked about other special days and one child suggested we have a scooter afternoon. We will provide more information on this at a later date. Photo of the Week

Activity Centre CRN (Afterschool Care) is 555 014 702K and Vacation Care is 555 014 708J. There is also the potential for working mothers to receive up to 50% of the fees outlaid back in their tax returns. Did you know your child can attend MAC for as little as $3 per session? Contact Centrelink to find out your child care benefit (CCB).

See you next week.

Jill, Julie and Staff

The children made scones and Anzac biscuits for afternoon tea. They tasted as delicious as they look.


PLEASE PLEASE NOTENOTE

If you are sending in

articles or advertisements by email and you do

not receive an acknowledgement of

receipt from the Merriwa Ringer,

please contact us by telephone to follow it up, as we may not have received the

email.

Thank you

Supporting Hunter Valley Producers for 37 years

THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL Fillet Steak $20.00/kg

(minimum 1.5kg)

PLEASE PLACE ORDERS BY 5PM MONDAYS FOR FRIDAY DELIVERY

For Order Forms

Ph. 65485170 or 65485008 after 7pm Fax. 65485181

[email protected]

Top Quality local beef and pork delivered to the Upper Hunter every Friday.

For Sale

12 week old Isa Brown Chickens

Available from Merriwa

Petroleum & Ag

Friday 8 April At 4pm

Please call 6548 2071

Are YOU Interested in a Trade Career?

As part of the TAFE outreach program Muswellbrook TAFE Outreach Co‐ordinator Annabel McLoughlin has organised a 2 day Outreach Course that includes The “OHS Induction for Construction”

commonly known as the GREEN CARD. Dates: 5 & 6 May 2011

Times: 9am to 4 pm ‐ both days are compulsory Cost: $30 per student to cover the Work Cover fee

(this needs to be paid by cheque not cash) Location: Great Hall Merriwa Central School

This course is open to school students and local community members who may be interested in

gaining this qualification. Numbers have to be finalised by 29 April, 2011. Places are limited to 20 so the first 20 paid

applicants will be given preference. Please contact: Jane Hegarty Merriwa Central

School 6548 2119 or Annabel McLoughlin Muswellbrook TAFE 6542 1115


ANGLICAN NEWS

Guild Street Stall The Women’s Guild will be holding a Street Stall in Bettington Street on Election Day, Saturday 26 March. Saleable goods will be gratefully received. The raffle is $100 open order on any business in Merriwa (it must all be spent at the nominated business). Tickets will be $1 each.

Men’s Breakfast The next Men’s Breakfast will be held this Saturday 26 March (Election day) at the Parish Hall, commencing as usual at 7.30am. A delicious breakfast is assured and music will be provided by Michael Wheatley and Wayne Wightley.

April Family Service The April Family Service will be held at the RSL Club on Saturday 2 April commencing at 4pm (please note change of time because of the movie). The second installment of the movie “Narnia” will be screened and there will be a sausage sizzle on the lawn. Please come along and bring the children or the grandchildren.

Movies with a Message There will not be a movie this Saturday night, 26 March, because of the elections. The third “Movie with a Message” will be shown at the Parish Hall on Saturday night, 2 April, starting at 7pm. (Please note the change of time from 6pm to 7pm because of the Family Service). There will be a finger food supper (please bring

a plate to share) and BYO drinks with just a gold coin donation. The third movie will be “Conversations with my Gardener” another delightful movie with a deeper meaning and certainly food for thought. The movies are being shown for 5 weeks on Saturday nights during Lent with the exception of the Election Night, 26 March. Please come along, everyone is invited to enjoy modern movies with a message which have been especially chosen. You may bring a comfortable chair if you would like to. For further particulars please contact Jean Keeping, 6548 2492 or Michael Wheatley, 6548 2218.

Relief Organist Required At Holy Trinity we are looking for someone willing to relieve Barbara Wightman playing the organ from time to time. This is a very rewarding experience and a service appreciated enormously by the congregation. Tuition would be available to anyone willing to participate.

Confirmations Please inform Rev’d Mandy of any candidates who wish to be confirmed this year as the annual visit by Bishop Brian will be on Sunday 26 June and lessons will get underway soon.

Dates for your Diary Saturday 26 March - Men’s Breakfast 7.30pm at the Parish Hall - Guild Street Stall Saturday 2 April - Family Service 4pm at the RSL Club - Third “Movie with a Message” 7pm at the Parish Hall

Please come and join us.

Jean Keeping


23rd Annual Bylong Mouse Races

Bar BBQ Raffles/Chocolate Wheel

Further information

call 63798252 or 0428964642

Bylong Hall Committee Inc. Present the

Saturday 26 March 2011

Mechanical Bull Great prizes to be won

www.bylongmouseraces.com.au

DUE TO LIQUOR REGULATIONS STRICTLY NO ALCOHOL TO BE BROUGHT ONTO GROUNDS

Gates open 10.00am Entry fee $5.00 Kids under 12 free

Accommodation Sites are available on the grounds. Book early so

you’re not disappointed.

Phone 63798281

Proceeds donated to charity

Kids Tent Games

Show bags Prizes to be won

Pooka the Clown

Mouse Nominations are available from the 1st week of February. If you

would like a mouse to race on the day please call 63798252.

$20.00 per mouse

http://www.bylongmouseraces.com.au/


MCCONNELL'S THIS 'N' THAT Our 2011 Winter Catalogues for both Thomas Cook and Wrangler are now in store ready for you to view. We have been busy adding all the RRP's to the catalogues for your convenience. I expect my bulk order for these two suppliers to arrive within the next week or two - I will let you all know when the stock is on the shelf. In the mean time why not pop in and have a look at the catalogues as items can be ordered from this now. Wrangler Jeans - Price Drop. Do you buy your Wrangler Jeans from overseas website? If you do you may be paying more than you need to. Since November last year Australian distributor for Wrangler, Thomas Cook have heavily reduced the prices of Wrangler jeans to give you the customer the best prices available. They are also promoting the 12 month workmanship warranty on all Wrangler jeans as a point of difference from buying on overseas websites - why pay postage when there is no need. New Equestrian Collection This season Thomas Cook have launched a new Equestrian collection for women and children. The collection includes a quality range of jodhpurs in a wide variety of colours and styles.

Catalogues Online for your Convenience Both the Thomas Cook and Wrangler winter range can be viewed on their respective websites, so you can view in the comfort of your own home. Simply write your order out and bring it in or give me a call and I will be happy to order the stock for you - stock is generally in store with a week if it is in stock with the wholesalers at time of ordering. All special orders are subject to a 20% deposit before order is placed. Size Range People often think that these companies don't cater for the average person (anything other than size 8 to 12) well that is not quite the case. The Thomas Cook ladies range caters for size 8 to size 20, the men’s range caters for shirt sizes S to 3XL and pant sizes 28 to 44. The children’s range starts at 2 and goes up to 14. Wrangler women’s sizes start at 8 and go up to 22 with the men’s shirt sizes starting at S to 3XL and pant sizes 28 to 46. Wrangler children’s start from size 2 to 14. News Flash - Winter Stock has just arrived and will be on the shelf in the next couple of days.

Carlita McConnell


MERRIWA HARDWARE Welcome back again to my trio of loyal readers. Ready for some more gibbering? Here we go. First of all, yes those rumours are true! Except the one regarding the nasty rash. Anyway, yes, Merriwa Hardware was awarded the Thrifty Link Hardware 2010 Store Of The Year. So first and foremost, I would like to thank all of our loyal customers who have supported the business over the years and allowed it to grow into the store it is today. While we can't possibly carry everything in stock, we always do our best to get it in for you. Always on the assumption that I remember to order the item in the first place! The award was certainly a surprise to us as we had absolutely no idea that we would even be considered in this class of store. When it was announced I reckon you could have knocked us both over with a feather. Lucky we were sitting down at the time.

Anyway, that's enough about that. We have some new Northcote pots in stock as well as some terracotta birdbaths. Come in and check them out. Keep a look out for our clearance specials. We have some Dulux paint we are clearing out and a range of Taubmans 250ml sample paint pots for only $1.00 each, along with some other bits and pieces. Can't remember just what, so come and have a look yourself.

Well that's about it for this week.

Did you know? "Almost" is the longest word in the English language with all the letters in alphabetical order.

Ray

DR STOKES Our 2011 flu vaccines have arrived. I recommended that they are given from April onwards. Please phone Carol on 65325013 to make an appointment. We have an Antenatal Clinic every Thursday to assist anyone who is having difficulty travelling to Muswellbrook, Scone, Mudgee or Newcastle for their regular appointments. We also have an immunisation clinic on Thursdays. Appointments can be made by phoning Carol on 6532 5013. A reminder for anyone interested in smoking cessation, our nurse will be available on Thursdays to help with this. The most important aspect to giving up cigarettes is simply making the final decision and setting the date. There is no one out there who can not give up. There are just many who haven’t made the final decision. Remember that whatever discomfort you may have to put up with during your transition to being a non-smoker will be the same whether you give up now or in ten years. It will not be easier then than now. The difference will be just in the amount of damage you have already done and benefit you stand to gain.

It makes sense to act now when you will get the utmost benefit. Pin yourselves down. Bite the bullet and get it over with. For further information you can contact Merrie on Thursdays at our surgery.

Dr Bronwyn Stokes


AUCTION Deceased Estate—5 Mackenzie Street Merriwa Saturday 9th April 2011 Onsite 10.30am

“A beautiful home boasting rustic country charm”

Features include polished floor boards throughout, large kitchen with mini-orb splash back and commercial grade oven and cook top, walk in pantry, attached dining area with air conditioning,

main bedroom with open fire place, bathroom with glass shower recess, separate toilet, large lounge room with gas heater and r/c/

a/c, both the main bedroom and lounge room feature French doors that open onto a relaxing, cool and spacious verandah, out-

side you will find a bbq area, car garage, storage shed, garden shed, large fully enclosed yard with established gardens.

As soon as you enter this comfortable country abode you will

instantly feel at home.

OPEN HOUSE Saturday 26 March

11 to 11.30am

Other inspections held by arrangement

GM Llewelyn & Co Merriwa Real Estate, Stock & Station Agents

19 Vennacher Street Merriwa NSW 2329 Office: (02) 6548 2008

Greg Llewelyn: 0417 227 204 Megan Constable: 0428 482 663

Photos of the property can be viewed at:

www.realestate.com.au/107229352


WOOLBROOK RURAL INDUSTRIES

Therefore in Europe from about (say) 1830 onwards there were two major military powers, i.e. France and the German states which by the 1870s had been united into modern Germany by the Prussian Otto von Bismarck. Britain was watching from the side lines with an army only large enough to maintain order in her growing number of colonies, but with far superior naval strength, an absolute necessity if she were to maintain control of her Empire. Europe was not big enough for two such military powers and tensions grew between Germany and France. France considered herself militarily superior to Germany, though she must have been rather shaken when Germany fought a war with the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1866 and won it in eight weeks. I could fill pages with all the machinations of that period, however suffice to say that France, probably without good reason, feared the possibility of a German-Spanish alliance which would obviously have put her in a military vice. French Generals, in spite of Germany’s Austro-Hungarian victory, were convinced France would win a conflict with the combined German states so France declared war on Germany in 1870. She was quickly defeated in what was called, in my youth, the Franco-Prussian war but is now often termed the Franco-German war, even if strictly speaking there was still not a Germany as we know it today. The Germans besieged Paris, reducing Parisians to such starvation that they ate anything they could find, including rats, and France surrendered. By this time Europeans were a good deal more civilised, at least to the extent that the slaughter and/or enslavement of the vanquished was now frowned upon, however further ancient actions were still acceptable, i.e. take much of the vanquished’s possessions, so the Germans imposed very onerous financial reparations on France and annexed her beloved Alsace-Lorraine. Though the ensuing years up till 1914 were marked by European peace, it was a peace with continuing and growing tensions where a bitter France, which blamed Prussia for two devastating defeats in 55 years (i.e. 1815 and 1870), thirsted for revenge. It was a war waiting to happen.

For a long time Europeans had detested Britain’s activities but without sea power could do nothing to stop her. This was particularly so with the Boer War (1899-1902) which was

hugely unpopular and for good reason, at least by modern day standards. Again pages could be filled detailing this war and its causes, but in essence South Africa was a British Colony and the Boers (originally mostly Dutch) had settled and created nearby separate African states, including the Orange Free State and Transvaal. Britain accepted this till it was discovered that these Boer states had lots of gold and diamonds, and soon Britain was at war with them. Initially this went very badly for her since the Boers, even though far outnumbered by an eventual British force of about 500,000 troops, were tough customers, very good riflemen and horsemen, knew the terrain intimately, and made maximum use of all these advantages. Also, they mostly did not fight fair by British standards, since where possible they avoided set battles, preferring swift commando (a Boer word) raids, sometimes of considerable size. In the end Britain won with a scorched earth policy including burning farm houses and crops, and rounding up the Boers, including women and children, and “concentrating” them into segregated camps, so “concentration camps” were not invented or even named by the Germans, though later they did make much more extensive use of them. Some 20,000 Boer women and children died in these camps and Europe was seething with anger at what was happening, but could do nothing, the Royal Navy was in the way. The Boers appealed to the European nations, particularly Germany, for arms to fight the British, and the only answer they received was “send ships and we will supply you with arms”, but of course the Royal Navy was again in the way. It is ironic that in the Great War the Germans, in similar fashion, demanded that the Americans sell them arms because they were selling them to Britain, and received exactly the same answer, “send ships and we will supply you with arms”, but the Royal Navy was still in the way.

About 1900, and for reasons including those already outlined, Germany decided that Britannia had ruled the waves for long enough and set about building a powerful navy, thus threatening to change a balance of power which had existed for nearly a hundred years. At that time the British navy was fairly well run down through lack of serious opposition, and much of it was in poor condition or even obsolete. It was obvious that if Germany, with a much larger


army than Britain, built a navy which could challenge Britain’s, the entire British Empire was in grave danger, therefore Britain and Germany were soon engaged in a vastly expensive naval building race with Britain designing a revolutionary warship which would change the face of naval warfare for fifty odd years. Thus one more reason for a major conflict was in place, one which meant that if a European war did break out Britain would be involved, and if so it was inevitable she would fight Germany.

I am telling this story warts and all, and emphasis again that all the events described in this and previous articles were, in essence, no more than the continuation of an ancient European power struggle.

Max Wurcker

AUCTION 72 Bow Street Merriwa

Saturday 16th April 2011 Onsite 10.30am

Motivated Vendor says SELL!!!!!!!!

3 Bedroom home featuring polished floorboards

throughout, lounge room with r/c/a/c, kitchen with dishwasher,

bathroom with shower and bath, 2 bedrooms with built inn’s,

laundry with 2nd toilet, front and back verandah’s, elevated position, landscaped yard,

garden shed, Currently rented for $190 per week

Inspections held by appointment

GM Llewelyn & Co Merriwa Real Estate, Stock & Station Agents

19 Vennacher Street Merriwa Office: (02) 6548 2008

Greg Llewelyn: 0417 227 204 Megan Constable: 0428 482 663

WOOLBROOK RURAL INDUSTRIES MERRIWA NURSERY AND

IRRIGATION Depot Road, Merriwa

Everything for the Rural Industries. We have no overheads and you benefit from rock bottom prices. We have nearly

50 accounts with suppliers of almost everything.

# Established 1949. # All kinds of pumps, big and little. # Poly pipe and poly fittings. # Gal. pipe, gal. pipe fittings, valves etc. # Poly tanks, the best prices. # Steel posts, barbed wire, wire, gates, electric fencing. # Diesel & petrol engines, generators, alternators etc # Steel including steel stockyards etc. # Design and installation for irrigation, farm watering, and gardens. # Almost everything else

WOOLBROOK RURAL INDUSTRIES: Please call Max Wurcker 6548-2150.

NURSERY: Please call Jenny Lee 6548-2472


MERRIWA PAINT & HARDWARE WINS TOP RETAIL GONG

If you’re looking for a superior retail experience, look no further than Merriwa Paint & Hardware, located in Merriwa, New South Wales – winners of the recent Danks NSW Retailer of the Year Awards.

Presented at the Danks National Trade Show and Conference on the Gold Coast on 10 March, the awards provide an opportunity to celebrate the Thrifty-Link stores that are leading the way in the national hardware and garden retail industry.

The State Retailer of the Year Award celebrates and acknowledges the store that has demonstrated outstanding achievement and success throughout the year, with a range of judging criteria from business growth to overall presentation of their businesses.

Merriwa Paint & Hardware store owner, Ray McConnell, accepted the award in front of a national audience of more than 1200 retailers and suppliers. “We are honoured to win such a prestigious award. It is a credit to all the team’s hard work and dedication over the past year, and recognition of the improvements we’ve been making” said Ray.

“At Merriwa Paint & Hardware we pride ourselves on providing the best in product choice, value and customer service – and to be selected as the state retailer of the year from Australia’s industry leading group is a wonderful endorsement.”

Merriwa Paint & Hardware has built a loyal customer base by continually evolving its product range and services to meet the needs of its community. It’s an example of a dynamic business, dedicated to furthering its own growth and success, which is only reinforced by receiving this NSW Retailer of the Year Award.

According to Danks National Retail Operations Manager, Peter Richards, the store’s innovation to set itself apart in the market place made it a stand out in the award category.

“In today’s changing hardware retail environment, independent retailers need to have the dedication and drive to keep their businesses at the forefront of their market. We are thrilled to recognise those retailers, like Merriwa Paint & Hardware, who work exceptionally hard to set their business apart from its competitors while always staying focused on the needs of their customers,” Mr Richards said.

Ray McConnell


MERRIWA ROTARY CLUB

Solicitor General Stephen Gageler and wife Carla with Merriwa and Denman Rotary Club Presidents Mr Bill Reynolds and Mr Gareth James. Rotary Club members of the Upper Hunter came together last Tuesday evening for a combined dinner meeting at the Denman RSL. The guest speaker, Mr Stephen Gageler, a past student of Giants Creek Primary and Muswellbrook High gave a most informative talk on his early school days and his career journey which lead to his distinguished position of Solicitor General. Merriwa Rotary Club extend an invitation to all members of Merriwa and Cassilis communities to a fund raising dinner in support of the Merriwa and District Rescue Squad. Monies

raised on the night will be to assist in the purchase of new equipment (Hurst Spreader) essential for the rescue of victims of motor vehicle accidents. The night will include a 300 club draw with first prize of $1,000.00, second $300.00 and third $200.00. In addition to this there will be several auctions on the night for various other goods, a load of cut fire wood, wine etc… 300 club tickets are available from local Merriwa businesses; Pharmacy, Newsagent, Post Office, Max’s Country cut meats and Di’s Clothing. Venue: Settlement Hall Date: 2 April 2011 Commence: 7 for 7.30pm Cost: Single $25.00 (BYO) Family $60.00 Tickets for the dinner will be available at the door and people wanting to attend the dinner evening should contact Mick Wheatley on 6548 2218 so that numbers for catering can be estimated.

Michael Wheatley


CWA

The Merriwa Cookery Day had 48 entries. Fruit Cake: 1st Jean Price, 2nd Robyn

McAlister, 3rd Kay Burgess Sultana Cake; 1st Rose Witney, 2nd Kay

Burgess, 3rd Robyn McAlister Butterscotch Cake: 1st Aileen Hogan, 2nd

Jean Price, 3rd Susie Fitzpatrick Orange Cake; 1st Barbara Campbell, 2nd

Margaret Witney, 3rd Jean Price Ginger Cake Marble Cake Six Mushrooms: 1st Barbara Campbell, 2nd

Rose Witney Assorted Plain Biscuits: 1st Kay Burgess Amy Johnson Cake: 2nd Jean Price Steamed Fruit Pudding: 1st Susie

Fitzpatrick, 2nd Susie Fitzpatrick, 3rd Robyn McAlister

Lemon Honey : 1st Robyn McAlister Tomato Sauce: 1st Robyn McAlister, 2nd

Robyn McAlister Melt 'n Mix Shortbread: 1st Kay Burgess,

2nd Susie Fitzpatrick, 3rd Paul Fitzpatrick Cornflour Sponge; 1st Jean Price, 2nd Rose

Witney, 3rd Susie Fitzpatrick Rock Cakes: 1st Piper Cropper Donna’s Chocolate Cake; 1st Margaret

Witney, 2nd Robyn McAlister, 3rd Barbara Campbell

The CWA Rooms will be open on voting day. Devonshire Teas and light refreshments will be available at the CWA Rooms this Saturday. So pop in for a cuppa.

Robyn McAlister Publicity

MERRIWA ICEBERGS

The Early Rising Faithful are celebrating the end to another successful season of early morning swimming at the annual end of season breakfast at Merriwa Pool this Friday 25 March at 6.30am. The event will be catered for by Merriwa Pharmacy who have been sponsoring the Icebergs 30c per lap towards the upgrading of the Merriwa Tennis Club.

Icebergs, even those who have slackened off in the latter part of the season, are encouraged to come along and lobby Nick to give it another season.

On this note a special thanks must go to Nick for another great season - the beautiful condition of the pool and surrounds are a credit to the hard work and long days he puts in across the season.

It's Cool to be an Iceberg.

Robert Smith

ST DAVID’S PIE & LAMINGTON DRIVE

Order sheet have been out for a few weeks but this is the last week to order!

Orders Close Monday 28 March and the delivery day is Monday 4 April.

Orders should be ready for collection by 10.30am on Monday 4 April, If anyone has been unable to place an order on any of the sheets please phone Barbara on 6548 5131

Barbara

TOUCH FOOTBALL

The presentation will be held after the Grand Final on Friday 1 April at the Merriwa Sports Club. A free disco will follow with all welcome.

Kate Blackadder

CAKE STALL/ SAUSAGE SIZZLE

On Saturday 26 March (election day), Pre-school/MAC and the committee will be holding a cake stall and sausage sizzle fundraiser in the Preschool Grounds.

Julie

MERRIWA RINGER PHOTO COMPETITION

Just a quick reminder that the “Rivers, Lakes & Waterways” competition finishes on Monday 28 March at 12 noon. So get your entries in now for a chance to win the book & DVD pack supplied by CMA.

April’s competition will have the theme “Country Life” and is sponsored my Merriwa RSL Club. The Prize will be a $50 club voucher, which can be used in the bistro or bar.

Candice O’Neill


$10,000 GRANT RECEIVED FROM DOYLES CREEK MINING FOUNDATION

The Rotary Club of Merriwa & The Merriwa ‘Youth Off The Streets’ Committee are very excited and thrilled to have gained a $10,000 grant from the Doyle's Creek Mining Foundation. We were one of four recipients to receive the grant in the Upper Hunter Shire. This great boost of funds has now put us in a position of nearing our first goal to raise $27,000 for the construction of our senior playground infrastructure – the Orbit Challenge Low Ropes Course. Only $5,000 to go.

Our community youth are very committed to this project and have identified their own fundraising calendar to help raise the funds - so if you see the youth selling chocolates round the town, buy a packet or two as this money goes towards the infrastructure that they have identified as being needed for our community. Only $5,000 needed for this project and we can start construction.

All donations to the added infrastructure of the Merriwa Rotary Skate Park Complex would be gratefully accepted by the youth and the Merriwa Rotary Club. It has been a long journey for our two committees, and will continue until we have all the equipment installed at the complex which when finished will look absolutely magnificent and be a benefit for the whole community. Thank you to the Doyle's Creek Mining Group for their generous grant and their support of local communities.

We also thank our local Merriwa Campdraft & Rodeo Association for their kind donation of $400 which was money raised from their 2010 annual event. Their continued contribution to our local community is much appreciated with many organisations being beneficiaries of their yearly fund distribution. Our Thanks to you for adding our project to your list.

If you want to know more about our project call John & Elaine Sparrow (Rotary Project Co-ordinators) or if you would like to donate to this community project please give us a ring.

Elaine Sparrow 65488560

SANDY HOLLOW HORSE RIDE

Saturday 16 April 2011 at Ellamarra, 2km West of Sandy Hollow on the Golden Highway. Supporting the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service

Itinerary 6am: Breakfast 7am: Ride Muster 3pm: Bar Facilities Open 4pm: Auction Scenic Country Ride - long & short courses. Under 18’s must wear helmets. No Stallions.

Camping available from Friday night - $10 per truck/float

Morning Tea, Lunch & Dinner Available. Entertainment by “Rough Diamonds from 7:30 till late”. Also Tug ‘O’ War Competition & Kids Rides

Cost $20 per person on $50 per family (Includes Morning Tea). Non Riders Gold Coin Donation

Mark Judge 6547 6118

MERRIWA TENNIS CLUB

Please note - Change of date for the Night Competition - now Monday 28 March.

Nominate as a team of 4 (2 men, 2 women), a pair ( 1man, 1 woman) or as a single player to be placed into a team. Closing date for names is Thursday 24 March. Names can be left with Loretta on 6548 2679 or Maree on 6548 2199. Children are to be secondary school age to play in the Night Competition.

Fashion Parade Merriwa Tennis Club will be holding a fashion parade on Saturday 9 April at the Merriwa RSL Club from 7pm for 7.30pm. Clothing will be provided by Di’s Clothing Patch (Ladies, Men’s and Children’s wear). Cost is $5 for adults and $2 for children (6-12years)

For more information on any of the above contact Loretta on 6548 2679

Loretta


EDWIN CHARLES WINBERG 8-4-1921 TO 16-3-2011

Ed Winberg, a well known resident of Merriwa for over 30 years passed away in care at Killara last Wednesday just short of his 90th birthday. He is remembered with great fondness by his many friends in Merriwa and by fellow members of Merriwa Rotary Club of which he was a member for many years. Among other endeavours, Ed was instrumental in the successful fundraising for the piano now housed in Merriwa School of Arts and used to provide tuition to local music students. Ed owned and resided in the old National Bank Building on the corner of Bettington and Vennacher Streets and was as much a local identity as the building in which he lived. In our time in Merriwa he became a valued friend and neighbour. We will greatly miss him for his sharp wit, his intelligence and his friendship.

Mel and Kerry, Merriwa Post Office

MERRIWA DISTRICT PROGRESS ASSOCIATION INC

INVITE YOU TO MEET THE MAYOR Councillor Lee Watts, the Mayor of Upper Hunter Shire Council will be the special guest at the March Meeting of the Merriwa District Progress Association. Among the topics for discussion will be: Proposal for Merriwa Multi Function

Community Centre in former Merriwa Shire building

Current situation concerning position of Merriwa Town Growth Strategy Co-ordinator

Process to rectify rural roads in the Merriwa area

Problem with increasing incidence of burst water mains in township

Increasing dog problem in Merriwa The meeting is on Wednesday 23 March at Merriwa RSL commencing at 6:00pm. If you have any questions for your Shire Council please attend.

Beron Arden-Wood – Secretary 6548 2245

RED CROSS APPEALS NEW ZEALAND AND JAPAN

The Australian Red Cross have launched an appeal for both the victims of the Christchurch and the Japanese earthquakes. As the people of Merriwa have been so supportive of the Qld Flood disaster and Red Cross Calling, Red Cross Merriwa will not be holding a specific appeal for these countries, however, we would like to inform you that donations can be made online, or at a branch of the Commonwealth Bank. Red Cross Merriwa can issue tax deductible receipts for these appeals also. If you would like to donate this way, please don't hesitate to contact Philomena Constable on 6548 2320 or Lois Wilkinson on 6548 8569 and an official receipt will be provided.

Philomena Constable Liaison Officer

FREE 2 DAY WORKSHOPS FOR YOUNG RURAL WOMEN 17-30 YRS

A free 2 day workshop for women aged 17 - 30 years will be held in Merriwa on Sunday 17 and Monday 18 April at the Merriwa Council Chambers. The workshop will incorporate: Life Planning, Understanding Finance, Style & Image. Participants will receive A gift bag, Lunch and refreshments. The Merriwa workshop will be followed by a Special Teens Night Out on Mon 18 April at the CWA rooms 6pm – 9pm. Bookings essential.

Please Contact Caroline Long Ph 65444902

E:[email protected]


MERRIWA HOSPITAL AUXILIARY

The Hospital Auxiliary will be holding a Street Stall on Friday 1 April, 2011. Come and buy some scrumptious cakes, slices, biscuits, jams and pickles. We will also have a 100 Club and a raffle. Raffle prize – just in time for winter, will be a Jason D.B. Pure New Wool Quilt and two pillows. Could all members of the Auxil-iary ‘cook up a storm’ for our street stall. Six volunteers will be helping on the day – thank you to those people. Any community mem-bers who would like to contribute saleable items, it would be much appreciated. ALL proceeds go back into our Merriwa MPS. Need further information? Ring 6548 8560

Elaine Sparrow - Secretary

YOUTHROCK 2011

Wednesday 6 April - Sunday 10 April YouthRock is an event organised cooperatively between the fol lowing Government Departments NSW DET, NSW MAA, Communities NSW and the NSW Premier's Depar tment . Any conce rns ema i l [email protected]. If you need us to phone you please email your contact details

Robyn Cox

MERRIWA TEEN-GIRLS NIGHT OUT

The Merriwa VIEW Club, in conjunction with the Upper Hunter Shire Council and the Merriwa Youth Centre are pleased to invite all girls in the Merriwa community and surrounding districts to attend a fun night out of pampering among peers and friends. The Merriwa VIEW Club will be catering on the night with hot & cold finger food and refreshments. It will be held on Monday evening, 18 April, 2011 (during the school hols) at6pm to 9pm. This will be a free night out for girls between 12 -18 yrs. Join us to have a night out of pampering and learn about style & image; skin, hair & nail care and health, hygiene & relationships. Quality guest speakers on all topics. A Pamper Pack containing skin, nail & hair products will be given to all girls attending. The night will be held at Merriwa CWA Rooms. RSVP by Wednesday 13 April for catering purposes. Phone either - Justine Witney 0447 610 915; Jenny Johnson 6548 2509; or Elaine Sparrow 6548 8560 . Transport home will be available if needed. Ask Justine. The night will be Free to all and is sponsored by The Merriwa VIEW Club members, Upper Hunter Shire Council and the Merriwa Youth Centre. For further information ring Elaine Sparrow 6548 8560.

Elaine Sparrow

The Merriwa Community News is available to charity groups or non-funded, not for profit organisations and anyone wishing to advise of a special event (birthday/anniversary/etc). If you would like to make use of this free service,

please contact us prior to 12pm Mondays.

RINGER COMMITTEE MEETING

A Ringer Committee meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday 6 April at 2pm. The meeting will be held in the Admin building of the Secondary campus. Interested community members are invited to attend and provide feedback on ways to improve our weekly publication.

Candice O’Neill Ringer Co-ordinator

MERRIWA BOOKIES CLUB

Do you like to read? Why not come and see what Merriwa Bookies is all about, we love to welcome new members. We meet the first Thursday of every month at Merriwa Library. The next meeting is on Thursday 7 April from 7 – p pm and our book for this month is Gang of Four by Liz Byrski.

There is no cost involved to be a part of the Bookies, the books are supplied by Upper Hunter Regional Library, you just need to be a library member. Tea and coffee is also available and quite often some of our members bring along a plate of goodies to share. We’d love to see you.

Jayne

https://webmail.det.nsw.edu.au/owa/redir.aspx?C=ed2a3d8ed6be4d1c9415efcc5ad24835&URL=mailto%3ayouthrock%40det.nsw.edu.au


COME TO A FREE WORKSHOP TO SAVE SERIOUS MONEY AND ENERGY

Workshop Dates: Wednesday 30 march 2011 6pm - 7pm

Council Chambers, Merriwa Office

Direct assistance is available NOW from the NSW Government to reduce your energy and water bills.

Home Saver Rebates: provides direct financial assistance to households to install rainwater tanks and upgrade to more efficient hot water systems, washing machines & toilets.

Home Power Savings Program: includes a FREE Home Power Assessment and Power Saving Kit for vulnerable households (eligibility criteria apply). Save up to 20% off annual power bills. Call 1300 662 416 to find out more.

Useful Links For more information on these and other programs go to http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au

RSVP & Inquiries: 6540 1172

Website: www.hccrems.com.au

Council Office Hours

Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm Enquiries—6521 7000

Environmental Services

Health and Building Surveyors available Wednesdays by

appointment, phone 6521 7000

Director Environmental Services available by appointment, phone

6540 1136

RTA Agency

Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm Enquiries—132213

Waste Depot

Merriwa Every Friday, Saturday, Sunday &

Monday (unless otherwise advised) 8am to 12noon & 1pm to 4pm

Cassilis

Every Saturday (unless otherwise advised) 8am to 4pm

Libraries

Merriwa Branch Tue -10.30am—12.30pm

Wed - Fri - 1.00pm—5.00pm Sat - 9.00am—11.00am Enquiries—6548 2207

Cassilis Branch Wed - 10.30am—1.00pm

Fri - 3.00pm—5.30pm Enquiries—6376 1295

Government Access Centre

Monday to Friday 9am—4pm Enquiries—6521 7000

Visitor Information & Resource Centre

Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday and Sunday 10am—12.30pm and 1pm—3.30pm

Also a Centrelink Access Point

Enquiries— 6521 7046

YOUTH WEEK ACTIVITY 2011

Keep this date open! Over-night stay - Saturday 2nd April - 3rd April 2011 Cultural camping for young people age 12- 17years

You will need a swag or tent With indigenous entertainers, New Zealand Hangi and lots more

All free Permission notes are required, limited spots due to catering purposes.

Contact: Justine Witney on 6521 7000

MERRIWA TEENS NIGHT OUT

Monday 18 April 2011 Merriwa CWA Rooms, Bettington Street, Merriwa

6pm-9pm NO CHARGE

Upper Hunter Shire Council and Merriwa VIEW Club. are pleased to invite all girls 12 to 18 years from the Merriwa community

and surrounding districts to a attend a FUN NIGHT OUT including Special Guests.

RSVP Wednesday 13 April 2011, needed for catering purposes Call Elaine Sparrow on 6548 8560, Jenny Johnson 6548 2509 or

Justine Witney on 0447 610 915 The night will be free to all and is sponsored by Merriwa VIEW Club and

Upper Hunter Shire Council


YOUTH WORKER ASSISTANT MERRIWA

PERMANENT PART TIME (10 HOURS PER WEEK)

& YOUTH WORKER ASSISTANTS CASUAL /ON CALL - MERRIWA

UPPER HUNTER SHIRE CUPPER HUNTER SHIRE COUNCIL OUNCIL RUNS YOUTH CENTRES AT SCONE, RUNS YOUTH CENTRES AT SCONE, MERRIWA AND MURRURUNMERRIWA AND MURRURUN DI DI PROVIDING SOCIAL, RECREATIONAL, PROVIDING SOCIAL, RECREATIONAL, SUPPORTIVE AND EDUCATIONAL SUPPORTIVE AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE PROGRAMS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE BETWEEN THE AGES OF BETWEEN THE AGES OF 12 YEARS TO 12 YEARS TO UNDER 18 YEARS, TO ASSIST IN THE UNDER 18 YEARS, TO ASSIST IN THE ACHIEVEMENT OF A HIGH QUALITY ACHIEVEMENT OF A HIGH QUALITY OF LIFE FOR THE YOUNG PEOPLE OF OF LIFE FOR THE YOUNG PEOPLE OF THE AREA, THE AREA, INCLUDING VULNERABLEINCLUDING VULNERABLE YOUNG YOUNG PEOPLE AND THEIR FAMILIES.PEOPLE AND THEIR FAMILIES.

Youth Worker Assistants provide support to the Youth Worker in the effective running of the Centres, including direct work with young people and their families.

The salary will be in the range of $20.12 to $22.53 per hour, in accordance with Council’s salary system. Casual worker's receive a 25% loading. Other conditions are in accordance with the Local Government (State) Award.

The job descriptions, Application Form and further information are available by contacting Justine Witney on 02 6521 7000 during business hours, or via the internet on w w w . u p p e r h u n t e r . n s w . g o v . a u /council/1023.html .

All positions involve evening and weekend work.

Written applications must address the skill requirements contained in the job description.

Applications close at 4 pm on Friday 1st April 2011. Applications must be in writing and addressed to the General Manager and may be sent by mail to PO Box 208, Scone, NSW, 2337; or fax to 02 6545 2671; or email to [email protected].

MERRIWA OFFICE CUSTOMER SERVICE TRAINEE

Upper Hunter Shire Council is seeking an enthusiastic, self motivated person to undertake a Customer Service Traineeship within Council’s Merriwa Office.

The purpose of this position is to undertake training in customer service and office administration and to develop knowledge, skills and abilities in the area. The successful applicant will undertake a Certificate III in Local Government via a flexible delivery program. Normal traineeship indenture conditions will apply.

The position is for 35 hours per week over 5 days. The salary will be in the range of $256.00 to $521.00 per week, in accordance with Council’s salary system. Other conditions are in accordance with Local Government (State) Award.

Further information and the job description is available by contacting Gaynor Blackadder, on 02 6521 7000 during business hours, or via the internet on www.upperhunter.nsw.gov.au/council

Written applications must address the skill requirements contained in the job description.

Applications close at 4pm on Friday 1 April 2011. Applications must be in writing and addressed to the General Manager and may be sent by mail to PO Box 208, Scone, NSW, 2337; or fax to 02 6545 2671; or email to [email protected]

Upper Hunter Shire Council is a smoke free Workplace and an EEO employer. Drug and alcohol testing is a condition of employment.

YOUTH CENTRE EXCURSION

SYDNEY ROYAL EASTER SHOW

Youth aged 12 - 17 years

When: Thursday 14th April 2011

Cost $35 each this includes entry and transport

Bookings will be a first in best dressed basis and a seat will not be confirmed unless a $35 non refundable deposit has been paid.

There will be limited seats as this trip is also open to Scone and Murrurundi youth

For more information or permission notes please contact Justine on 65217000

http://www.upperhunter.nsw.gov.au/council/1023.html




mailto:[email protected]



2nd - 3rd April 2011 (weather permitting)

Two indigenous entertainers will be involved in

boomerang design, playing the Didgeridoo,

story telling and much more. . .

Fishing, Cooking a Hungi for dinner, Damper Cooking & lots more!

FREE FREE event For ALL young people in the Upper Hunter

Shire aged 12 to 17 years Cultural Camping

overnight stay at Merriwa


Clean Up Australia Day 2011

Clean Up Australia day 2011 was celebrated in Merriwa on Friday 4 March in conjunction with Schools Clean Up Day. Over 100 students, teachers and volunteers showed up to collect rubbish around our town. Collection was followed by a free BBQ for all volunteers sponsored by the Upper Hunter Shire Council. Thank you to the students and teachers from Merriwa Central School and St Joseph’s Merriwa for helping to make our town a cleaner place for locals and visitors. Thank you also to the groups and individuals who were unable to attend but still picked up rubbish during that week and over the weekend.

Hostel Market Day The 2011 Hostel Market Day held on Saturday 5 March was another great success. Thank you to all those who came down to support the event, in excess of $3,000 was raised for the Hostel. The committee would like to thank all the volunteers who contributed to the day. Thank you to all those who cooked, made craft items, donated goods or worked on the stalls. We would not be able to have this great event without your support. Thank you also to Merriwa Rugby League Football Club and Merriwa Rotary Club for the use of their marquees and to the Merriwa Branch of NSW Fire & Rescue for bringing their truck along. The committee would also like to thank the following sponsors for the raffle prize donations: Anthea Wright Veterinary Services, CJ & JM Vero & Sons Electrical, Curls & Swirls Hairdressing, Di's Clothing Patch, Edith Shipway, Elders Pitt Son & Keene, Hair Indeed, Holly's Nails, Hunter Mutual, In Tatts We Trust, Ironbark Café, KT's on Bettington, Max's Country Cuts, McConnell’s This ‘n’ That, Merriwa Auto Electrical, Merriwa Cakes & Pastries, Merriwa IGA, Merriwa Newsagency, Merriwa Nursery, Merriwa Petroleum & Ag Supplies, Merriwa Pharmacy, Merriwa Post Office, Merriwa RSL Club, Merriwa Tyre and Service Centre, QV Books and The Royal Hotel Merriwa. The winners of the major prizes on the day were: Treasure Chest $500 – Patsy Jacobs 100 Club No. 1 – 1st: Ean Cottle, 2nd: Margo Dorney, 3rd: Terri-Ann McLoughlin 100 Club No. 2 – 1st: Jan Cronin, 2nd: Ev Cronin, 3rd: Mark Constable Crochet Rug donated by Faye Purnell – Rose Witney

COUNCIL MEETING

The next Council meeting will be held in the Council Chambers, Scone on Monday, 24 May commencing at 5pm. Public participation is scheduled at the beginning of the meeting. Requests to address Council must:-

be received in writing by noon on the day of the meeting address a current agenda item

All members of the community are welcome to attend.

Contact: Susan Duggan at the Merriwa office on 6521 7000


PAPANUI Hello again from the chooks at Papanui. Apologies to those who have been waiting for more on wind farms, we have been just too busy here over the last few months to contribute more, suffice to say there is still plenty of comment to come. My friend and neighbour provided more targets with his contribution to the debate in past Ringers. Of more immediate importance is the NSW elections and the candidates we have standing in our electorate. We feel that this is our only chance to express through an elected member of the NSW Parliament our stance on coal seam gas and coal mining on productive agricultural land. The Labor party has been in power for 16 years in NSW and must accept complete responsibility for the appalling situation we find ourselves in now, so to vote Labor in this election is complete foolishness. George Souris has been in opposition for 16 years as the National Party sitting member for the Upper Hunter. If the Liberal Party and Nationals form a Government following next weekend's election, he will have to conform to the senior party's agenda and we are not confident that Barry O'Farrell will take the steps

necessary to rectify the current situation. Of course if the landslide victory occurs as predicted then the Libs won't need the Nats as a coalition partner to have a majority so any pressure that George may want to apply will be unavailable anyway. The Greens have served a purpose we suppose, but witness the carbon tax that they have forced the Federal Labour Government to implement – indeed making the Prime Minister retract a pre-election promise of no carbon tax – this is a party that has no understanding of what running a business and employing others is like. They seem to think that everyone works for the public sector and need not produce anything of value, just shuffle papers about until the bell rings and then race off to some meeting somewhere to organise another protest against something that they think is in need of change. We think we have outgrown the Greens. Our money goes on Tim Duddy who is standing as an independent. He has been at the forefront of the fight against the mining of the Liverpool plains, the Caroona Coal Action Group. He has a taste of bureaucracy having been a Councillor on Gunnedah Shire Council. Most importantly he “gets it” when it comes to how farmers feel about big mining companies throwing their weight around with no regard to farmers, farms, the natural environment or long term agricultural sustainability. If you want to have a voice in the NSW parliament that is focussed on these issues then Tim Duddy is your only choice. Yes we know about Tony Windsor and Rob Oakeshott – the show isn't over 'till the fat lady sings you know!

Mark Killen


FOR SALE

Lucerne Hay $10 plus $1 GST

Phone Pauline on 0400 482 444

Shop 1/17 Bridge Street www.jtsrealty.com.au Muswellbrook NSW 2333 [email protected] Ph: 6541 5331 Fax: 6541 0330

89 Bettington Street Merriwa AUCTION – On Site 25 March at 11am Situated on a corner block with frontage to the golden highway this is an ideal Development site for a Motel, Sub Division or Multi Dwelling site subject to council approval. The site is 2 acres (8000sqm) with all services connected. There is a 3 bedroom weatherboard cottage which is very solid but in need of some tender, love and care. The bedrooms are all big with ornate cornice. There are 2 living area's with a good size lounge featuring open fire and a large family room at the rear. The kitchen is original and has plenty of space. Walking distance to the shops, schools and sporting fields this is a golden opportunity to take advantage of Merriwa's very bright future. 109 Giants Creek Road Sandy Hollow - $370,000 Located 2 minutes from Sandy Hollow in the heart of Horse & Wine Country this 5 acre block enjoys magnificent views from the front veranda across the creek flats to the mountains beyond. Built to blend into the landscape the ranch style home is very well set out. The main area of the house consists of 4 huge bedrooms 2 bathrooms and a very good sized open plan kitchen, lounge and dining area with an open fire and R/C Air. There is also a 2 bedroom granny flat attached to the home, ideal for guest or teenagers which is currently let at $320 p/w. The BBQ area is a great family spot with its built in BBQ and oven and it is all fully enclosed. There is plenty of storage and workshop space, a wine cellar and a big shed for all those toys. There is a water easement to Giants Creek. If you are looking for a lifestyle block with a beautiful country feel - This Is It!

Tomimbil Seed Oats for

Sale

Blackbutt, Coolabah & Yarran

AH: 6376 1029

Office & Administration Services

Secretarial Services All forms of Data Entry (Including:

MYOB, Xero, Agrimaster, Excel Spreadsheets, Access, 3DSS)

OHS System Compliance Filing System Set Up & Maintenance

Phone 6374 1675 Or call into our office at 701 Cope

Road, Gulgong www.copestation.com.au

FOR SALE

LG 5 Kg Turbo Washing Machine as new $300 ono

Phone Sue or Ray

on 6548 2283

http://www.jtsrealty.com.au/


http://www.copestation.com.au


HUNTER MUTUAL It’s nearly the end of another busy week for everyone, we would like to remind you about some of the great products on offer at your local Hunter Mutual Branch. A fantastic initiative that we have to offer is our Community Partnership Accounts. We now have a total of 17 recipient accounts that you may choose to support. The recipients are various community organisations that benefit from your contribution. Remember you are not out of pocket in anyway, we take an average total of your savings balance and then, Hunter Mutual, at the end of the financial year give your nominated recipient 1% of that average balance to the recipient organisation that you nominated. It’s a great way to donate without having to hand over your precious pennies! So come in and speak to us about the CPA account. The organisations that you can sponsor, to date are:- Merriwa Railway Society Merriwa Tennis Club Merriwa Golf Club Merriwa Education Foundation Merriwa Rescue Squad Merriwa Touch Football CWA Merriwa Branch Regional Cancer Council Merriwa Tourist Welcoming Centre Merriwa Rotary Club

Merriwa Rotary Club – charity Merriwa Rugby League Football Club Anglican Parish of Merriwa St David’s Uniting Church Trinity Markets Merriwa Junior Rugby League & Netball Club Inc Merriwa Central School Canteen Do you have a couple of credit cards and are trying to juggling the repayments or personal loans that you would like to consolidate and have just one easy repayment? The start of the year is a great time to simplify your finances. Roll a number of debts into one convenient Hunter Mutual personal loan and enjoy a 3 month repayment holiday! Don’t forget we now offer 55 day interest free credit cards at a very competitive rate and low annual fee, and if you have a home loan with us you also receive a further 3 % reduction in rate. Also we are agents for Allianz insurance. Yes we do sell green slips along with motor, home, travel, caravan and landlord insurance. If you have something a bit more unusual to insure or are after farm insurance come in and let us refer you to Ausure. Ausure are a brokerage service that we use to find the best deal for our members. We have been successful of late, referring people to Ausure for farm insurance. It doesn’t hurt to get a quote you might save yourself some money! All you have to do is answer some basic questions, and it obligation free, so give us a call today. We look forward to hearing from you and answering any questions you might have, we are always just a phone call away! Phone us on 65482651

Trudie, Kylie & Fiona


Entries Close 12 Noon on Monday 28 March

This month the theme is:

The winning photo this month will receive a DVD and Book pack, donated by Hunter Central Rivers

Catchment Management Authority.

The competition is open to amateur photographers of all ages. The winning photo will be published in the Ringer on March 31 and will receive a prize donated by our sponsor. All entries will

be displayed at Merriwa Pharmacy after the winner is announced.

Each month will be a new competition with a new theme and prize!

Email your entries to: [email protected] or drop them into the office to be scanned.


MERRIWA PHARMACY An assault on men’s health Maintaining a healthy weight, drinking in moderation and not smoking are all important messages to ensure we keep in the best possible health. Now, reducing the amount of salt in our diet has been shown to reduce the likelihood of serious chronic and potentially life threatening disease. Most of us have little awareness of how much salt we are eating; and there are many myths surrounding our need for salt. World Salt Awareness Week (21–27 March) aims to change all this, with a particular emphasis on the relationship between salt and men’s health. Of course, we can all suffer from the adverse effects of too much salt, but research has shown that men eat more salt than women. So, salt related health problems are more often seen in men; and at an earlier stage. In Australia the awareness campaign is co-ordinated by the Australian Division of the World Action on Salt and Health (AWASH). Chair of AWASH and Senior Director of the George Institute for International Health, Professor Bruce Neal, recently commented that Australians are eating dangerously high levels of salt. Salt reduction and other nutrition initiatives should be seen as a key priority alongside measures to help people quit smoking and moderate alcohol consumption. There is strong evidence that links our current high salt intake to high blood pressure which is a major cause of stroke and heart attack. And scientific research has found that even a modest reduction in salt intake for four weeks or more has a significant effect in reducing blood pressure. It is also widely recognised that a high salt diet has other adverse effects such as osteoporosis, asthma, kidney stones and stomach cancer. Professor Neal also said that banning food high in salt was not an appropriate option, but tough measures to control the amount of salt in foods should be considered.

The ideal daily intake of salt is only 1–2 grams per day, but many Australians consume five or 10 times that amount. In the first instance the aim is to reduce our total salt intake to around 6 grams per day – equivalent to around one teaspoonful. The highest salt containing foods are processed foods like ready-made meals, baked beans, soups, processed meat (such as ham and bacon), smoked foods, restaurant and takeaway food, some cereal and even bread. It is difficult to avoid eating at least some of these foods, but we need to look for low salt alternatives instead; or eat fresh foods which have no added salt. AWASH has developed some simple ways that we can ‘pinch’ salt from our diet: we should limit takeaway and fast foods, avoid salty snacks or limit them to occasional treats, look for low salt or no salt options when shopping and use lemon juice, garlic, vinegar or herbs and spices when cooking. For more suggestions on how we can ‘drop the salt’, check out the AWASH website at: www.awash.org.au There are a number of misconceptions about salt. For instance, it is falsely thought that you can tell what foods are high salt because of their salty taste. In reality, sugar in food can often mask the taste of salt. This is especially true of biscuits and breakfast cereals. We should remember, too, that common salt is known chemically as sodium chloride; it’s the sodium in salt that raises the blood pressure. And it doesn’t matter where the salt comes from or how fancy or expensive it is – whether it’s sea salt, or rock salt, whether it’s in grains, crystals or flakes - it’s all salt and it still contains sodium. You can get more information on salt from Merriwa Pharmacy. Merriwa Pharmacy – Now Stocking Blackmores Vitamin Range – Check In Store for Opening Specials

Robert Smith

http://www.awash.org.au


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Introductory Offer on New BLACKMORES Vitamin Range


MERRIWA NEWSAGENCY Your local Newspower Store and Office Smart Agent. The staff at Merriwa would like to congratulate Ray and Carlita McConnell for their Store of the Year Award. It takes a lot of hard work (and even more hard work) to get such recognition for a small business. Colouring In The Easter Colouring Competition is now on at Merriwa Central, St Joseph’s and Cassilis Primary Schools. The entries will be collected from the schools in Week 9 of this term (the week starting March 28) and the prizes will be awarded during the last week of term. We look forward to displaying them in the shop window and inside the shop. We often get locals and tourists looking at them and commenting on which ones they like the most. If any motivation is needed in order to colour in really, really well, then check out the giant cuddly bunnies in the window. One of these will be given to a student at each school who we feel has put a lot of effort into doing the best they can. One lucky winner will receive a Staedtler Prize pack worth $70. Their entry will then be sent to Sydney to be judged in the state competition where the winner receives a prize pack worth $250 and their school receives a pack worth $500.

Toys We have had a delivery of much needed toys and games. There is a great selection of games and other playthings. Stock up on jigsaw puzzles, board games, fiddle sticks, card games and other activities so that when the weather turns cold there are plenty of things to do. There are also some great fun games for

younger children that help them with their alphabet and memory. Don’t forget to check out the trucks, fairy wings and wands, cars and figurines. “One phone call can change everything.” Everything We Ever Wanted is the latest novel by Sara Shepard (who wrote ‘All the Things we Didn’t Say). It follows Sylvia, a recently widowed mother of adopted son Scott, who is whispered to be involved in the death of another boy at his prestigious school. It follows ser as she must decide whether she should maintain the perfect reputation and heritage that her family has handed down to her, or to help the son she feels wants nothing to do with her. This novel shows how hard it can be for people to connect, and how quick judgments and decisions can come back to haunt you. Q: how do you stop shoes from pinching? Last year we had a wonderful book in store called ‘My Mother’s Ways’. The companion guide is now available and is called My Mother’s Times. It is a wonderful book filled with the wisdom of the home in the early 1900s. It includes hints for making clothes, cooking, gardening, cleaning and other things as well as including photographs of everyday life. If you love looking at glimpses of our history (or know someone who does) this book is perfect. (A: wedge a golf ball into the end of your shoe overnight!) Enter Sandman isn’t Number 1!! What are the 100 greatest Metallica songs? Guitar World has listed the 100 best Metallica songs as well as the story of how each song came about. If you are a Metallica fan, this mag is a must-have. It offers some fascinating insight into the brains behind some of rocks biggest hits. Decorator’s Handbook The House & Garden Decorator’ Handbook breaks down the home decorating journey into achievable bites, providing room-by-room ideas to call on as you need them. This guide holds the collected wisdom of the H&G team and contributors- stylists, builders, architects,


DAY TOURS 23 Apr 2011 Royal Easter Show – Homebush Easter Sat. $80

Adult $70 Conc. $70 Child 7 May 2011 Denman Wine and Food Affair – Coach leaving

Scone via Aberdeen and Muswellbrook – Coach leaving Merriwa via Gungal and Sandy Hollow $20 Return fare payment required at time of booking

15 May 2011 Andre Rieu – Newcastle Entertainment Centre Sunday Evening concert. Enjoy the magic of Andre $250

30 May 2011 Back to the Golden Years, Shades of Irish – Newcastle. Civic Theatre Monday Matinee. $60

19 Jun 2011 Erina Fair Shopping Tour – Come join us and make the most of the end of financial year sales $45 P/P

25 Jun 2011 Mystery Tour – Always fun and entertaining $60 17 Jul 2011 Christmas in July – Come and enjoy a traditional

Christmas dinner in the cooler month of July $70 P EXTENDED TOURS

4 July 2011 13 Day Central Australian & Top End Tour Travel via Broken Hill, Silverton, Port Augusta, Coober Pedy, Alice Springs, Uluru, Devils Marbles, Tennant Creek, Katherine Gorge, Adelaide River, Crocodile Cruise, Darwin.

16 July 2011 19 Day Western Australian Tour Travel via Kununurra, Lake Argyle, Broome, Ningaloo Reef, Monkey Mia, Kalbarri, Geraldton, Perth, Bunbury, Albany. Always Popular.

2 Oct 2011 11 Day Tasmanian Adventure – Secrets of Tasmania Spirit of Tasmania, Salamanca Markets, Historic Port Arthur, World Heritage Cruise

30 Oct 2011 15 Day Melbourne Cup - Great Ocean Road - Murray Princess Tour Includes 4 day cruise on the Murray River! 5 Star luxury – 5 Star service.

BOOKINGS & ENQUIRIES PH: 6547 4416 or 1800 077 099 (free call)

CBS TRAVEL PTY LTD Travel Agents License No 2TA5587

landscapers, decorators and designers. It looks at every room in the home from kitchens and bathrooms to outdoors and children’s rooms. Rotary 300 Club Rotary are raising money for the Rescue Squad and have decided to have a 300 club. The tickets are $20 and the winner receives $1,000. There are tickets available at the Newsagency if you are interested in supporting this local group that has helped many of us over time. The winners will be drawn at a dinner at Settlement Hall. Along with the lucky winners being drawn, this dinner will host an auction. If you are interested in buying a ticket, attending the dinner or donating to the auction, come in and speak to Neville. Phone Cards; all cards are now available including Telstra, Optus & Vodaphone Cash or Eftpos only

Neville and Leanne Hooke


CASSILIS BOWLING CLUB

Friday nights Twilight Bowls - Names to the club by 6.45pm for 7pm start. Come along and join the fun Last week of Twilight Bowls will be Friday 1 April. Friday night Snack Bar – The Two Ds Good food great company at excellent prices Friday night raffles - Meat trays, Vege trays, Schooner Draw, Joker Draw, Members Draw. Zumba has arrived in Cassilis Monday evenings – 6.30pm @ the Cassbowl Gold Coin donation will go towards other needs for the Zumba sessions e.g. big screen etc. Last weeks results Winners: Damian, Laura, and Tom Runners Up: Ivan, Jack and Brian Rester: Brian Members Draw: ($50) Rodney S – unclaimed ($55 next week) Joker Draw: ($1515) Suzanne – unsuccessful ($1590 next week) Cassilis Bowlo Specials Thursday 24 March 2011 until Wednesday 7 April 2011 Tinja Wines Rose & White $8.00 XXXX Stubbies 6 Pack $11.00 (takeaway

only) Black Douglas Scotch & Cola Cans 6 Pack

$20.00 (takeaway only) Jack Daniels Bourbon 330ml Cans 24pack

$75.00 or $40.00 Doz (takeaway only)

Hilary Parker

MERRIWA RSL CLUB

The Members Lucky Badge for $450.00 was not won on Friday at 8.30pm the number was 677, this week it jackpots to $500.00. The 7pm draw for $300.00 was not won the number was 635, this week it jackpots to $320.00. The 9pm lucky ticket draw for $1200.00 was not won the number was 34484, this week it jackpots to $1220.00. LTPS/10/05160.

The Sunday Morning Badge Draw was won last week the number was 219, this week commences at $250 and will be drawn between 11.30am and 1.30pm and you must be present to win the money. LTPS/10/05160 Sunday Raffle change: the Sunday raffles will now consist of a choice of IGA vouchers, Thrifty Link vouchers, Caltex vouchers and Max’s Country Cuts vouchers. This week’s Lucky $5 note was not claimed the serial number was BI 05428449, and now jackpots to $75. The $5 note is released early in the week and is announced on Friday night during the raffles, and must be claimed at the bar by midday Sunday, and you must be a member of the Club. If you cannot remember the serial number that’s ok there will be notices at the bar from Friday night after the Raffles.

MJ Morgan Secretary/Manager


MERRIWA SPORTS CLUB Saturday 19 March - Saturday Members Draw 324 Not Won Next week $160. Winners Jackpot 80590 Not Won Next week $1500. Free Tickets Philomena Constable. Dinner Jeffrey Cronin. Bowls Raffle Michael Cooper Sunday 20 March - Sunday Members draw No569 Not Won Next week $500. $20 one off prizes No 568 Not Won & No 570 Not Won Transport Service is available Friday and Saturday. Don’t take the risk and drive when for $3 per person you can be chauffeured home. To access the transport service you must book through the Sports Club to check availability of the service. Members and Associations Looking for a venue to hold your meetings etc The Sports Club may be able to assist. Please contact the Club for further details Bingo Every Thursday Night commences 7:00pm. Win Sporties Vouchers $5, $20, $50 + Fruit, Veg and meat trays Don’t forget Friday Mufti twilight is still on until the end of March. Zumba - 5.30pm Wednesday afternoons Saturday 23 April “Green Ginger” Free Show Saturday 21 May - “Donnella” Saturday 25 June - “Dee Blundell” Saturday 30 July - “Green Limousine” The Sporties - Chinese/Australian Restaurant Open for Lunch and Dinner. Lunch Specials

Open 5 1/2 days. Lunch Wednesday to Sunday 12noon – 2:00pm Dinner Tuesday to Sunday 5:30pm to 9:00pm. Please Note Saturday hours for lunch are 11:30am to 1:00pm. Closed Mondays reopens 5:00pm Tuesdays. For Bookings and take away ring 6548 3228

LADY BOWLERS NEWS There was another good roll up for Mufti Bowls on Wednesday 16 March. New players are always welcome on our Mufti days which are held every Wednesday. Coming Up Wednesday 30 March Aberdeen Association

Day Tuesday 5 April Pennants Wednesday 6 Mufti Day 9:00am

B & JR

GOLF NEWS

Williams Putting Comp - 8 Starters with some good golf scores again. Winner P Murray 21 points. Runner Up D Walmsley 61 points.

Ball Comp - 1st - A Carrigan, 2nd - M McNaught, 3rd - P Williams

Nearest the Pin - 4th B Cooper, 13th P Murray, 9th D Taylor, 18th B Cooper

Presidents Pin not won

Next week qualifying round of the Kene 4 Ball mixed. Enter with partner.

Sand Green Championships on 17 April at Murrurundi on notice board.

The Cat


MEN’S BOWLS NEWS Saturday 19 March, Men’s Pennants – our third game played at home against Scone Town, overall score Scone winning 4 ½ to 1 ½ . Teams to play against Aberdeen RSL, Saturday 26 March:

Reserves – G Anshaw, N Barwick, R Constable Players please be at the Club by 11.30am, call for cards 11.45am, on the green 12.00pm sharp. The winners of the 50 Club, run on 19 March:

Thank you to all who bought tickets. Singles played Sunday 20 March: Des Snelgrove defeated Ray Shotter Greg Watson defeated Allan Hancock

Eva Towler

1st Prize No 29 Trudi Parker

2nd Prize No 7 Mick Towler

3rd Prize No 18 Doug Crouch

1st Prize No 29 Trudi Parker

2nd Prize No 7 Mick Towler

3rd Prize No 18 Doug Crouch

MERRIWA LITTLE ATHLETICS Stormy weather has seen us miss out on a couple of sessions recently. Hopefully for our last few, we will be lucky. Our last session will be on Monday 4th April. Then the next season will begin again around September. We will keep you informed about end of season events such as the AGM and Presentation. It is expected that our raffle will be drawn on the last night. Thanks to everyone who has supported this fundraiser. The lucky winners will enjoy a getaway to Hawkes Nest and wine and chocolates. Thanks to all who have continued to help out at Little Athletics. We would again like to say a huge thank you to Merriwa IGA for their generosity. Our club has enjoyed a great season with so much local interest and support. It's never too late to come along and find out what Little Athletics is all about. LANSW has a very informative website and it's interesting to see all the Olympians who started out in Little Athletics. See you at oval #2 Merriwa on Mondays from 5.30pm.

Sally

Skip P Rush D Crouch A Byfield

Third A Hancock K Bevan G Watson

Sec-ond

A Perkins R Shotter J Cronin

Lead M Barwick K Barry D Snelgrove


MERRIWA RUGBY LEAGUE First home game of the season is this weekend. Merriwa v Denman Kick off 2pm. Don’t forget it is kids day! Every kid 15 years and under will receive free entry, a soft drink & a packet of chips. Come down and cheer on the boys as they run out in their new look jerseys. The game is proudly sponsored by Welderup Pty Ltd. We are currently holding a raffle for a $100 Caltex Fuel card which will be drawn after the game. Tickets $1 or 3 for $2 and are available at The Royal & Elders before the game and at the canteen on game day. Dates to remember Sat 2 April 3.45pm Muswellbrook v Merriwa Sun 10 April 12.30pm Greta Branxton v Merriwa The Merriwa Magpies would like to thank the following sponsors: Merriwa RSL Club – Major Sponsor The Royal Hotel Merriwa Alexander Downs Wholesale Ross Green Tourist Hotel Tassell Financial Planning Col & Gaye Bates Merriwa Sports Club Bill Wild Welderup Pty Ltd Craig Macpherson Haulage Merriwa Petroleum & Ag Merriwa Pharmacy

Tullatula Partnership Hunter Mutual Caroon Pty Ltd John & Ainsley Maben Shannon Partnership Ron Potter Farms Rosto Olive Oil ID & PA Medd Springfield Merriwa Past Co GK Reilly Bits ‘n’ Pizza’s Jersey Sponsors: 1. B & K Family Transport 2. Max’s Country Cuts 3. Don Gorman 4. Ben Furney Flour Mills 5. Cross Country Merriwa 6. Elders 7. Elders 8. M & J Kirkland 9. Morgan’s Maintenance 10. R J Carr 11. R Greentree Earthmoving 12. R Greentree Earthmoving 13. JTS Realty 14. Royal Hotel Merriwa 15. Royal Hotel Merriwa

The Birds Nest


PONY CLUB NEWS Twenty three members of Merriwa Pony Club, along with members from Singleton, Scone, Aberdeen, Cassilis, and Murrurundi competed at the clubs President’s cup day last Sunday. Past members of Merriwa Pony Club and mother and daughter, Margaret and Anthea Wright, judged the riding, hack and pair classes. They also awarded the best presented Merriwa rider trophy to Kyarne Sampson. Both Margaret and Anthea have won this trophy before, riding in the same equipment. Goes to show it doesn’t matter how old the saddlery is, just how well it is kept! Riders also competed in the flag, bend, snake, barrel and mug race, as well as the bonfield bounce and cloverleaf barrel. A great day was had by all. More results next week when I get them! Many thanks to everyone who helped out to make the day a success! Keep checking and responding to your emails from Heidi and Katie! Remember the Rally day weekend on April 9 and 10. Campdraft school on the Saturday and regular rally day on the Sunday. All new members welcome!

7 Year Kyarne S a m p s o n winner of the Best Presented Merriwa Rider pictured with j u d g e s Margaret and Anthea Wright.

Eagerly awaiting their events are new members Jorji and Darcy Taffe with their mother Tash.

Happy Riding

Tanya Ninness


NAME PHONE

Andy Carrigan 6548 5199

Boardman Peasley Pty Ltd 6543 3600

Bricklayer Block layer 6548 2591

Cannock Pastoral Company

6548 2195

Cassilis Bowling Club 6376 1002

Cassilis Public School 6376 1009

Colles Manufactured Homes Pty Ltd

4353 3606

Cowan’s Buses 6547 4416

Cross Country Merriwa 6548 2106

Festival of the Fleeces 6548 2109

Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority

6542 4444

Hunter Mutual 6548 2651

Merriwa Activity Centre 6548 2082

Merriwa Amateur Swim Club

6548 8510

Merriwa Anglican Parish 6548 2218

Di’s Clothing Patch 6548 3023

Good looks Nail & Beauty 0408 175 028

Equine Dentistry 0427 153 446

McConnell’s This ‘n’ That 6548 2889

Curls & Swirls 6548 2499

Hidden Valley Homestead 6548 8588

MA Macdonald & Co 6548 2226

Fire & Rescue NSW 6548 2005

Custom Made Kitchens 6548 2025

Craig McPherson Haulage 6548 2663

Gummun Place Hostel 6548 2111

NAME PHONE

Merriwa Catholic Parish St Vincent de Paul

6548 2086 6548 3092

Merriwa Central School Primary office Secondary office

6548 2101 6548 2119

Merriwa Central School P&C Association

6548 2119

Merriwa Junior League & Netball

0447 035 694

Merriwa Little Athletics 6548 2446

Merriwa Magpies Rugby League Football Club

0411 800255

Merriwa Petroleum & Ag Supplies

6548 2071

Merriwa Pharmacy 6548 2213

Merriwa Pony Club 6548 8561

Merriwa Post Office 6548 2042

Merriwa Pre-School & Kindergarten Association

6548 2083

Merriwa RSL Club Restaurant

6548 2157 6548 2295

Merriwa Rotary Club 6548 2025

Merriwa Show 6548 2276

Merriwa Sports Club Restaurant

6548 2028 6548 3228

Merriwa Surgery After Hours

6548 2305 6548 2305

Merriwa Tennis Club 6548 2679

Merriwa Tourist Welcoming Centre

6548 7201

Merriwa Cricket Club 0428 485 110

Merriwa Auto Electrics 6548 2114

Merriwa Newsagents 6548 2031

Merriwa District Health 6548 2653

Merriwa Traders - IGA 6548 2315

Merriwa Caravan Park 0418 668 402

Merriwa District Education Foundation

6376 1052

Merriwa Darts Competition

0428 899 749

Merriwa Hardware 6548 2077

Merriwa District Progress Association

6548 3060

NAME PHONE

Merriwa Tyre & Service Centre

6548 2078

Merriwa Youth Centre 6548 2109

Panorama Motor Inn 4943 3144

Pitt Son & Keene Elders 6548 2307

PT Pest Control 6548 2444

R & M Moore 6548 2992

Rockwell Livestock 6548 5100

Russell’s Earthmoving 6548 2246

Sporting Shooters Assoc 6548 7226

St David’s Uniting Church 6548 5131

St Joseph’s Primary School 6548 2035

Stokes Dr Bronwyn After Hours

6532 5013 6532 5000

Tash Holden Communications

6548 5002

Trinity Markets 6548 2323

Upper Hunter Landscape Guardians

6545 1996

Upper Hunter Shire Council - Merriwa Branch

6521 7000

Welderup 6548 2500

Whale, Mark 6548 2389

Woolbrook Rural Industries

6548 2150

Rosto Olives 9327 5635

TransCare 6545 3113

Merriwa View Club 0429 197 397


MARCH

Saturday 26 Bylong Mouse Races “The Queen of the Flute” - Gulgong Bunnamungo Mudfest Short Film Festival Junior Polocrosse Coaching Weekend - Coolah Merriwa Rugby League -1st Home Game - 2pm State Election Polling Day Pre-school/MAC Cake Stall & BBQ Women’s Guild Street Stall

Wednesday 30 Willsbro Angus Herd Dispersal Sale - Rockwell

APRIL

Friday 1 Merriwa Hospital Auxiliary Street Stall Touch Football Grand Final, Presentation &

Disco

Saturday 2 Fundraising Dinner - Merriwa Rescue Squad Cultural Camping - Upper Hunter Youth Week

Sunday 3 Aberdeen Autumn Pumpkin Festival Clearing Sale “Kurrabi” - Ulambri

Thursday 7 Last Ringer for Term 3 - Resumes 5 May

Friday 8 Last day for Term 1

Saturday 9 Merriwa Tennis Club Fashion Parade Coolah Working Dog Training Day Estate Auction - GM Llewelyn - Merriwa

Sunday 17 Aberdeen Quilt Extravaganza Lions Biggest BBQ & Markets - Coolah Rural Women’s Workshop - Day 1- Merriwa

Monday 18 Rural Women’s Workshop - Day 2 - Merriwa Teen Girls Night Out - Merriwa

Thursday 21 CWA Street Stall

Friday 22 Good Friday

Saturday 23 Merriwa Race Meeting “Green Ginger” Merriwa Sports Club Cassilis Pony Club Presidents Cup Day

Sunday 24 Easter

Monday 25 Anzac Day

Thursday 28 Start of Term 2 Upper Hunter Horse Festival Opening

Saturday 16 Sandy Hollow Charity Horse Ride

Friday 25 Merriwa Icebergs End of Season BBQ - 6.30am Pool Comp Thursday nights 6.30pm for 7pm start. Last weeks

winner Brad Pittman.

Friday 7-9pm Pick the Joker Jackpot $400.-

Happy Hour Specials $2.60 middies

$3.60 schooners 5-7pm Friday

10-11am Saturday 11-12noon Sunday

Saturday 4.30-6.30pm Social Club Draw

Jackpot $100

Publicans Punt Last Week $25 win on Fast Clip 2nd.

$25 win on More Strawberries.

Still looking for it. On again this Saturday.

Bistro and Dinning room Open 7 days a week

10 for $10 each Lunch Specials

Your choice of coffee and cake only $8. Try our

Expresso machine

This Weeks Specials Carlton Premium Dry

$44.50

VB & Toohey's 30pk Cans $49.99

Cruisers $81.75 ctn $18.50 4pk

JB, Bundy, JW & cola cans $88 ctn, $27.50 6pk

700ml JB, Smirnoff Vodka or Bundy Rum

$38.75

White Heather Scotch $37.50

XXXX Summer $48 ctn

XXXX 30pk cans $47.50

BAR BISTRO

ACCOMMODATION PH 6548 2235

issue 8: thursday 24 march 2011€¦ · friday 25 src fundraiser monday 28 geography competition...

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