News Centre

MEDIA RELEASE 8 May 2020

YourSay Bathurst

Council is seeking feedback on:

• Renewable Energy Action Plan
• Vision Bathurst 2040: Bathurst Regional Local Strategic Planning Statement
• Draft Delivery Program and Operational Plan
• Financial Assistance COVID -19 Stimulus Measures

Visit yoursay.bathurst.nsw.gov.au

Heritage Assistance Grants

Applications are now invited for small grants for the following funds:

Bathurst Region Heritage Fund

Provides fund for the repair and maintenance of older buildings in the region. The program is supported by the NSW Heritage Branch of the Office of Environment and Heritage.

Bathurst CBD Main Street Improvement Fund

Provides small grants to assist property owners and tenants to improve, repair and maintain buildings within the Bathurst CBD. 

Bathurst Region Interpretation Fund

Provides small grants for the preparation of Conservation Management Plans, historic publications and interpretation projects to promote and interpret the region’s history. 

All applications close Friday 29 May 2020. Applications for funding must be made on the Council’s application form which is available on Council’s website at www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au or from our Civic Centre. For more information call 6333 6211.

Public Art Community Peers Register

Bathurst Regional Council is seeking suitably qualified and passionate individuals to join its Public Art Community Peers Register. Community Peers will assist Council to develop a strategic approach to the creative activation of the region’s public spaces.

Members of the community with professional expertise or interest in public art / visual art / the built environment / heritage / community engagement are encouraged to nominate. Three Community Peers will be appointed to the Public Art Program Committee, with other Community Peers called upon to provide professional advice and expertise as required. To nominate as a Public Art Community Peer, please visit: www.bathurstart.com.au

Submissions Close: 5pm Friday 22 May 2020 Enquiries: Director, Bathurst Regional Art Gallery

6333 6555 email: brag@bathurst.nsw.gov.au.

Call and Collect available at the Library

Library members can call the library on 6333 6281 (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm) and arrange to pick up a bundle of books, audiobooks, DVDs or magazines that staff will select based on the member’s preferences. 135 people have already used this service since it was launched on Monday.

Bundles will be available for pick-up at a no-contact collection point in the library foyer from 12-4pm the following business day (Monday to Friday only). Members will need to bring identification. If an item reserved via the library catalogue is available it will be added to the bundle.

For more information about Call & Collect or other library services, call 6333 6281 9am-5pm Monday to Friday.

Waste 2 Art

Waste 2 Art will be held online this year. The 2020 exhibition has a focus on aluminum and steel cans; however, artworks do not need to include these. A range of categories and prizes will be on offer, with winning artworks having the opportunity to be entered in the 2021 Regional Exhibition.

With the event moving online, participants are encouraged to get creative from their homes. Entrants must create an artwork including some element of recycled waste that would’ve otherwise been considered useless. The competition is open to all residents of the Bathurst region.

Three photographs of the creation, along with an entry form and a half page descriptive brief must be emailed to waste2art@bathurst.nsw.gov.au

Visit www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au for details.

Shop locally to win

Council is running competition where residents can win a $200 Buy Local Gift Card every week for ten weeks commencing 1 May.

The Buy Local campaign currently has 130 stores involved in the initiative. Customers shopping at any of these businesses go in for a chance to win even if they don’t use a gift card. Customers will receive a unique identifying number when they make a purchase which they need to enter online at www.bathurstbusinesshub.com.au to go into the competition.

For more information visit www.bathurstbusinesshub.com.au

Out and about with your dog

During this time of social distancing dog walking is permitted. They must be on a leash and under effective control at all times. Please be mindful of other people walking their dogs and maintain social distancing. Never attempt to pat a strange dog, no matter how cute they are or how friendly they look.

ENDS

Media contact: Media Officer

MEDIA RELEASE 1 May 2020

Council has joined NSW Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in its long-running litter prevention campaign which aims to deter people from littering from vehicles.

The ‘Report to the EPA Service’ is part of a comprehensive NSW State Government anti-littering program. More than 45,000 people from across NSW have registered with the ‘Report to EPA Service’ to report littering from vehicles. Almost 60,000 reports have been made, and more than 40,000 litter fines have been issued by the EPA. In Bathurst there are currently 220 registered and in the past year 195 reports of littering were made.

Mayor Bobby Bourke encouraged residents to register with the service provided by the EPA.

“Our community deserves a clean and safe environment, so we are asking people to think about the consequences of littering and report any incidents to the EPA. By having our community support this campaign, it sends a strong message that littering is not tolerated,” he said.

The EPA can issue fines of $250 for an individual and $500 for a corporation for littering from a vehicle, based on reports from members of the public.

To register, visit www.epa.nsw.gov.au/reporttoepa

ENDS

Media contact: Media Officer
M: 0448 685 340 E: corinne.boer@bathurst.nsw.gov.au

MEDIA RELEASE 1 May 2020

YourSay Bathurst

Council is seeking feedback on:

• Renewable Energy Action Plan

• Vision Bathurst 2040: Bathurst Regional Local

Strategic Planning Statement

Visit yoursay.bathurst.nsw.gov.au t

Heritage Assistance Grants

Applications are now invited for small grants for the following funds:

Bathurst Region Heritage Fund

Provides fund for the repair and maintenance of older buildings in the region. The program is supported by the NSW Heritage Branch of the Office of Environment and Heritage.

Bathurst CBD Main Street Improvement Fund

Provides small grants to assist property owners and tenants to improve, repair and maintain buildings within the Bathurst CBD. 

Bathurst Region Interpretation Fund

Provides small grants for the preparation of Conservation Management Plans, historic publications and interpretation projects to promote and interpret the region’s history. 

All applications close Friday 29 May 2020. Applications for funding must be made on the Council’s application form which is available on Council’s website at www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au or from our Civic Centre. For more information call 6333 6211.

Bathurst Writers’ & Readers’ Festival

The 2020 Bathurst Writers’ and Readers’ Festival will be a special, stay-at-home event held from Friday 1 May to Sunday 3 May. All events will be live streamed or pre-recorded on the BMEC Bathurst Facebook page. Chances for engagement will be available in the Facebook live streams and on Instagram by using the hashtag #bathurstreaders and tagging @bmec_bx.

The program:

Friday 1 May

5.50pm 2020 Festival Opening

6.00pm Books You Might Have Missed

Saturday 2 May

10.00am Storytime With Bathurst Library

11.00am Multicultural Storytelling Project

2.00pm Poetry Pickings

6.00pm Creative Conversation

Sunday 3 May

11.00am Great Festival Read

1.30pm Play Readings

2.40pm Wrap-up and Feedback

For more information, visit the BMEC Bathurst Facebook page www.facebook.com/BMECbathurst

Public Art Community Peers Register

Bathurst Regional Council is seeking suitably qualified and passionate individuals to join its Public Art Community Peers Register. Community Peers will assist Council to develop a strategic approach to the creative activation of the region’s public spaces.

Members of the community with professional expertise or interest in public art / visual art / the built environment / heritage / community engagement are encouraged to nominate. Three Community Peers will be appointed to the Public Art Program Committee, with other Community Peers called upon to provide professional advice and expertise as required. To nominate as a Public Art Community Peer, please visit: www.bathurstart.com.au

Submissions Close: 5pm Friday 22 May 2020 Enquiries: Director, Bathurst Regional Art Gallery

6333 6555 email: brag@bathurst.nsw.gov.au.

Out and about with your dog

During this time of social distancing dog walking is permitted. They must be on a leash and under effective control at all times. Please be mindful of other people walking their dogs and maintain social distancing. Never attempt to pat a strange dog, no matter how cute they are or how friendly they look.

Call and Collect available at the Library

Starting Monday May 4, library members can call the library on 6333 6281 (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm) and arrange to pick up a bundle of books, audiobooks, DVDs or magazines that staff will select based on the member’s preferences.

Bundles will be available for pick-up at a no-contact collection point in the library foyer from 12-4pm the following business day (Monday to Friday only). Members will need to bring identification. If an item reserved via the library catalogue is available it will be added to the bundle.

For more information about Call & Collect or other library services, call 6333 6281 9am-5pm Monday to Friday.

ENDS

Media contact: Media Officer
M: 0448 685 340 E: corinne.boer@bathurst.nsw.gov.au

Council is seeking suitably qualified and passionate individuals to join its Public Art Community Peers Register.

Peers will assist Council to develop a strategic approach to the creative activation of the region’s public spaces in line with the Bathurst Public Art Policy.

Members of the community with professional expertise or demonstrated interest in public art, visual art, the built environment, heritage, and /or community engagement are encouraged to nominate.

Mayor Bobby Bourke said this is a unique opportunity for members of the community to contribute to the development of Public Art projects in Bathurst.

“Public Art will enhance the region’s public spaces, drive cultural tourism, and help cement Bathurst as NSW’s premier inland centre of

culture and creativity,” he said.

Community Peers wishing to nominate for the Register should have an appreciation and understanding of art in the public domain, an understanding of community expectations, and strong connections to the Bathurst LGA.

Three Community Peers will be appointed to the Public Art Program Committee, with other Community Peers called upon to provide advice and expertise as required.

To apply visit: www.bathurstart.com.au

Media Contact: Media Officer

Nominations Close: 5pm Friday 22 May 2020

MEDIA RELEASE Friday 1 May 2020

Call & Collect service now available at the Library

Are you running out of reading material and not a fan of eBooks? Bathurst Library is launching a new Call & Collect service so library members can borrow new items while the main building remains closed.

Starting Monday May 4, current library members can call the library on 6333 6281 (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm) and arrange to pick up a bundle of books, audiobooks, DVDs or magazines that staff will select based on the member’s preferences.

Bundles will be available for pick-up at a no-contact collection point in the library foyer from 12-4pm the following business day (Monday to Friday only). Members will need to bring identification. If an item reserved via the library catalogue is available it will be added to the bundle.

Mayor Bobby Bourke said library staff were looking forward to providing members with physical items.

“We know how important reading is to our community and that not everyone can access online resources, he said.”

“Staff have been investigating how they can provide items to members while still respecting government health guidelines. Protocols have now been put in place so they can offer a contactless pick-up from the foyer”.

Members are asked to follow social distancing guidelines when using the Call & Collect service and stay home if they are unwell. Returns can be placed in the chute at the front of the library at any time, with staff quarantining all items for four days before replacing them on the shelves.

Manager Library Services Patou Clerc said the library’s online collection has also recently been expanded with the addition of a new eLibrary platform called Indyreads, plus a Homework Help page for students. “If you are not already a library member you can still access these services by joining as a temporary eMember on our website,” she said. “Plus, we are also still holding virtual storytimes and kids craft activities via Facebook each week, and have just started hosting virtual author talks.”

For more information about Call & Collect or other library services, call 6333 6281 9am-5pm Monday to Friday.

Media Contact ::media@bathurst.nsw.gov.au

Living Legends

Lachlan John Rendall

Lachlan John Rendall has been a practising Chartered Accountant in Bathurst for the past 52 years, employing many locals during this time. Lachlan has been an Honorary Auditor for various community groups and has been a Justice of the Peace since 1970. Lachlan was a Councillor with Bathurst City Council from 1987 to1991 and Councillor with Southern Mitchell County Council from 1987 to 1991. Lachlan was President of the Scots School P&F from 1982-1986 and a Member of Scots School Council from 1987-1995. He has been a member of the Bathurst East Rotary for 37 years holding the position of president in 1995/96. Lachlan was awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship by Rotary International in 1997. He is also a Probus Club of Bathurst Plains Member, was President of the Churches United Soccer Club from 1975 to 1979 and Delegate to the Bathurst Sports Council.

Geoffrey Porter

Geoffrey Porter is a proud fourth generation Bathurstian, having lived all his life in the Bathurst and Yetholme communities. Geoffrey did an apprenticeship with local business Hobson Bros in 1980 and was named the most Outstanding Graduating Student of the Western Institute of TAFE. Receiving the Richard Tosich Memorial Award which recognised his outstanding results. Geoff taught his trade at TAFE and established his own construction company in 1999. Geoff Porter Constructions completed large works at Charles Sturt University, and other various schools and businesses and employed 30 locals over 16 years. Geoff was involved in Camp Quality Tractor Trek in 2012-2016 in the position of Deputy Director raising $1.4 million for Camp Quality. In 2016, Geoff founded the Central West Charity Tractor Trek which raised funds for the charity "Little Wings". He was awarded the 2BS Bathurst Citizen of the month in December 2018 for his efforts. Geoff runs a beekeeping business, focusing on pollination and honey production to support the Apiary and Agricultural industry. Geoff with his brothers, set up the Ted Porter Memorial Award for Champion Honey Exhibitor at the Royal Bathurst Show. He is an active member of the NSW Apiarist Association and the Central Tablelands Beekeeping Association. Geoff became a member of the Yetholme RFS in 2007 as Deputy and Senior Deputy. He volunteered more than 300 hours fighting against the Gospers Mountain Fire in the Lithgow District.

Jane Esme Rawlings

Jane Esme Rawlings is heavily involved and has volunteered at Daffodil cottage in Bathurst over many years and in many roles. Jane has been President and Vice President of the Volunteer Group for Daffodil Cottage and was an integral member along with her husband of the small Fund Raising Committee in 2014/15 to extend the cottage. $700K was raised by the committee in 18 months. Jane is a member of the Daffodil Advisory Council to maintain relationships with Bathurst Health Service and the wider community. Jane is also a fundraiser for Can Assist. She has supported many local, rural, state, national and international students and their families during her career with the Mitchell College of Advanced Education and All Saints College. Jane was one of the Foundation Committee members for the Combined Bathurst Probus Club. Through this club she helped provide opportunities to retirees in the community to progress healthy minds and active bodies through social activities and interaction.

Arthur Davis

Arthur Davis has been a dedicated Patron of the Bathurst Light Car Club since 1970 and became a Life Member in 1995. He has served on the Club’s Committee since 1980 to the present holding the position of Treasurer for most of those years. Arthur has been a life member of The Beef, Steak and Burgundy Group since 1983, receiving a life membership in 2013. This committee focuses on local produce and supports local farmers and wine producers. Arthur was Director of the Kidney Kar Rally from 2005-2018 and raised more than $15 million for young children through the Kidney Foundation. Arthur completed the London to Sydney car rally in 1977, receiving a special achievement Award from Bathurst City Council. He has actively promoted the city of Bathurst for over 46 years.

Dr Martha Gelin

Dr Martha Gelin moved to Bathurst in 1984 from Tasmania. Martha was the first HIV- AIDS Coordinator for the Central West. She was also the first volunteer guide for the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum and volunteered unpacking and cataloguing fossils, and minerals donated by Professor Warren Somerville. Martha is still a volunteer guide today. Martha was an early member of the Bathurst Panorama Chorus (Sweet Adalines) and served on its Management Committee. Martha has been a supporter of the Mitchell Conservatorium and served on is board for several years and has made significant financial contributions to it. Martha has also played in and supported the Bathurst City Orchestra for many years.

George Gaal

George Gaal migrated to Australia in 1949, was employed in various insurance businesses and served 18 years as a member of the NSW Police Force. His last posting was as the Detective Sergeant in Charge in the Bathurst District, before he retired in 1995. George is a member of the Bathurst Bridge Club and served as treasurer of the club for 11 years. He is a Committee Member of his retirement village and has been Secretary-Treasurer for a number of years. George has been a Justice of the Peace for the last 45 years. He has represented Police Legacy in the Central West for 20 years and assisted Police Widows with general administration and social events. George was awarded the Police Medal for Diligent and Ethical Service. He has been a member of two Rotary Clubs in Bathurst for approximately 30 years and was awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship Medal for his service. George was made a Veteran Member of the NSW Retired Police Association in 2010 and received a letter from the then NSW Premier Nick Greiner for his part in the Bicentennial Celebrations in Bathurst for being a member of the then Migrant Reunion organising committee. George organised a similar event for the 50th anniversary of the Bathurst Migrant Centre.

David John Pennells

David John Pennells has served for 40 years with Fire Rescue NSW, initially joining the Bathurst Volunteer Fire Brigade in 1976 as a volunteer fireman. David has served many major critical incidents in the Bathurst area and fought the fire at Kelso High School in 2005. He was awarded the Fire Brigade Good Conduct and Service Medal and the Australia National Service Medal. David is the owner of Inland Building and Construction which has carried out major rejuvenations of the Bathurst Central Business District with the Bolam Family.

David serves on the Board of Verto as secretary and is a member of the Bathurst East Rotary Club, where he has served in many roles including International Director. David was President of the Australian Simmental Association and served as Cattle Steward at the Royal Bathurst Show. David is passionate about motor racing and was the second life member of the National Motor Racing Museum. He has given significant donations through his business and as an individual to the community through disaster relief and the Community Op Shop.

Pillars of Bathurst

George Basha (1921-1996) Mary Basha (1927-2016)

In 1938, at the age of 17, George Moses Basha left his native Lebanon to begin a new life in Australia, initially in the Riverina. Not long after arriving in Bathurst in 1945, he established the Aussie Fish Café on George Street, followed in 1948 with a new business venture as a “draper and mercer” (manchester and clothing). With radio and newspaper ads declaring George Basha The Prices Smasher!, his shop at 79 Keppel Street soon prospered. Mary Anne Sarkis, a dressmaker, who had also migrated from Lebanon in 1938 lived nearby. George and Mary married in 1950, with no.79 providing both their family home and business premises. In 1952, they expanded their business to include fruit and vegetables. George and Mary continued to run their mixed business until retirement in 1973. George often said, “Australia is a land of opportunities for those who worked hard”. A view proven not only by his and Mary’s success, but also by the many neighbouring businesses run by other migrant families, coming from as far afield as China, England, Greece – and Lebanon. George and Mary Basha were truly Icons of Keppel Street. Their story is an important chapter in the history of their street.

Haydn Larnach (1918-2011)

Haydn Kenneth Larnach was born in Bathurst and grew up in Newbridge. A baker’s apprenticeship brought him to Bathurst, where during World War II he became the sole qualified bread dough maker serving the entire town, as well as the gaol and army camp. His daily commitment to his essential work as the town’s baker, which included training the army’s bakers, was physically exhausting. Haydn was a passionate photographer, his talent recognised with an Australian Portfolio Photographic Society award in 1958. For his community, the lasting legacy of his camera lies with his photographs of Bathurst life last century, now in the Bathurst District Historical Society’s collection. His knowledge of cameras led to his invention, and manufacture in Bathurst, of an innovative photo finish camera, the Race-O-Graph, for horse and greyhound race tracks. Hayden’s invention was taken up by race tracks across Australia and as far afield as Hong Kong. Hayden also lent his creative talents in 1967 to the making of a replica Holterman nugget, the sculptural centre piece of the fountain outside Council Chambers, still appreciated by locals and visitors over fifty years later. Through his skills and talents, Haydn Larnach gave a lifetime of service to his community.

Ivan Cranston (1934-2007)

Born in Bathurst, Ivan John Cranston overcame childhood illness to become an all-round sportsman who went on to represent Bathurst in tennis, cricket, table tennis and squash at state level. Ivan is fondly remembered by Bathurst’s sporting community as a coach and mentor who over many years willingly shared his sporting knowledge and skills with hundreds of Bathurst children (and adults). A vivid memory etched in the minds of many is their Sunday morning sessions with Ivan at the Bathurst City Tennis Courts. There, clad in tennis whites, the hopeful tennis stars would be lined up to perfect their “serve”. His voice would ring out, “One! Two! Three!”, and, although the exercise was hated by some, the “Ace” would be served. Ivan’s own amateur sporting career began while at Bathurst High School, where he participated in the Astley Cup. His sporting interests continued into adult life, with his family remembering travels around the state accompanying Ivan to sporting events. Ivan could be relied upon to deliver centuries in cricket and awesome tennis rallies, with his lightning agility overwhelming many a squash and table tennis opponent. A true sportsman, Ivan Cranston made an important contribution to the story of sport in Bathurst.

Judy Webb (1925-2018)

Born Judith Weaver in Grenfell, Judy came to Bathurst in 1949 as a resident doctor at Bathurst District Hospital, earning special acknowledgement for her work in obstetrics and family care in Bathurst’s Migrant Camp. Married in 1950, Judy was appointed Medical Officer at Bathurst Teachers’ College in 1960. With a passionate interest in history and architecture, Judy was a driving force for the conservation of heritage buildings in the Bathurst region. She was a foundation member in 1974 of the National Trust’s Central West Women’s Committee, and was instrumental in the donation of Miss Traill’s House to the National Trust in 1976. A prolific writer, Judy wrote the text for Bathurst Sketchbook (1975) and prepared numerous Trust leaflets for Open House Inspections over thirty years. In 1973 the Bathurst Action Committee to Secure Unified Planning was formed, with Judy taking an active role in the townscape survey and study of two key city blocks. The BACSUP report, with its photographs, is considered an invaluable record of Bathurst’s heritage. Recognised through State and National Trust awards for her dedication to local heritage, Judy Webb was an inspirational advocate in many ways. Her contribution to our community continued until her death in 2018.

William Browne (1816-1893)

Born into a lacemaking community in Derbyshire, England, William Browne’s arrival in Australia was the result of extraordinary circumstances. Around 1840, William, a machine fitter, joined the thriving English community employed in the lacemaking factories of Calais, France. The 1848 Revolution saw their flight from France, with many assisted to relocate to Australia. William, with wife Lydia and their young family, in the company of other refugees, were sent to Bathurst. Through his previous experience installing and maintaining lacemaking machinery, William brought hands-on technical skills much needed to develop Bathurst’s fledgling industries. William’s versatile knowledge and reputation for perfection led to a variety of ventures. He soon found employment supervising George Rankin’s steam-powered flour mill and later assisted in erecting Ranken’s famous bridge. Employment as a brewer and maltster at Reliance Brewery included building a malt-kiln. William returned in the 1860s to managing flour mills. In the 1870s, before taking up employment with the railway, his practical skills were engaged in George Fish’s foundry. William also established a farm at Duramana, which remains in family ownership. The respect the Bathurst community held for William Browne might be measured by the number, some 700, who attended at his graveside.

Major General Leslie Beavis CB, CBE, DSO (1895-1975)

Lieutenant General Sir Reginald Pollard KCVO, KBE, CB, DSO (1903-1978)

Educated at Bathurst government schools, these Bathurst-born career soldiers excelled at RMC Duntroon, with Beavis topping the 1915 graduation class and Pollard receiving the 1924 sword of honour. Leslie Ellis Beavis served with distinction on the Western Front in World War I, where he commanded the 53^rd Battery, and was awarded the DSO. In World War II, he served in increasingly senior positions in the Middle East, New Guinea and Australia, overseeing essential logistic support for the army. As Master-General of Ordnance from April 1942, he coordinated wartime production with the army’s supply and operational needs. Retiring in 1952, Major General Leslie Beavis served as Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan until 1954. Reginald George Pollard served with distinction in World War II. In 1941 he was with the 7^th Division’s headquarters in Libya and later commanded the 2^nd/31^st Battalion in Syria. He was awarded the DSO for service in New Guinea. In 1945, he was a deputy director of military operations at Allied Land Forces HQ. During 1953, he commanded the Australian Army in Korea. In 1963, then Chief of the General Staff, Lieutenant General Sir Reginald Pollard retired from the army. He was Australian secretary to Queen Elizabeth during her 1970 visit.

PJ Moodie (1881-1963)

Born in Talbot, Victoria, Percival James John Moodie and his young family came to Bathurst in 1913. A registered pharmacist since 1903, he established a pharmacy which soon became a community mainstay and continues today as Moodie’s Pharmacy, Bathurst’s oldest pharmacy. Known to all as Percy, or more commonly as PJ, he soon became a leading figure in his adopted town. From 1922 to 1962, PJ served continuously, and with dedication, as an Alderman on Bathurst Council, including twice as Mayor. His promotion of tennis, at which he excelled, saw the building of community courts, one of his many lasting legacies. Although not a licenced pilot, PJ was passionate about aviation and the opportunities an aerodrome could offer Bathurst. He knew, and flew with, the great pilots of his day, Kingsford Smith and Ulm among others. In 1929, with their support, Western Aero Company was formed, with PJ as chairman, but the venture soon failed. To paraphrase PJ’s own words, “he was a little ahead of his times”. His strong representations did though in time help achieve a modern aerodrome for Bathurst. In 1963, Percival Moodie’s contributions to local government and his community were acknowledged with the award of the OBE.

Leo Grant (1917-2012)

Born in Canowindra, Leo George Grant came to Bathurst as a student at St Stanislaus’ College. In 1943, he was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Bathurst. In 1944, having been asked by Bishop Norton to “do something for the young people”, Leo set about doing just that. Father Leo Grant established a club, St Patrick’s Catholic Young Men’s Society. St Pat’s, as the society came to be known, proved to be a great success in the pastoral care and development of Bathurst’s young people. Under Leo’s guidance, St Pat’s provided a range of youth activities such as monthly dances, musical events, a club newspaper (Uncensored) and sporting events, including a football team. The club provided much needed opportunities for young people to engage in activities that fostered health and well-being. In the 1960s, he responded to another calling, that of a missionary to Peru, where he served for almost 25 years. Following retirement, he returned to live in Bathurst. St Pat’s, the club he established over 75 years ago, remains his lasting legacy. Monsignor Leo Grant’s concern for the needs of young people, and his work to address those needs, has earned him the gratitude of the entire community.

Patric O’Brien (1922-2016)

Born in Bathurst, Patricia (Pat) Maria O’Brien began her training in General Nursing in 1945 at Mater Misericordiae Hospital in North Sydney. It was there she changed her name to Patric as there were several O’Briens on the staff answering to Patricia and Pat. It was an act of duty before self that would characterise her nursing career. Initial nurse training was followed by Maternity and Mother Craft training. Patric went on to become the Night Superintendent at Mater. She returned to Bathurst in the early 1950s to join the nursing staff of the Bathurst District Hospital, taking charge of the Maternity Section. In 1958, she became the hospital’s Deputy Matron. In 1966, Patric took up the position of Matron/Director of Nursing, a position she held for 16 years until retirement in 1982. Patric’s achievements were recognised with her appointment as a Fellow of The Institute of Nursing Administrators of NSW and ACT. Patric played a key role in the transition of nurse education from hospital training to a professional university degree course at Mitchell College (now CSU). In retirement, Patric O’Brien continued to serve her community through her work with Bathurst’s initial Palliative Care Group and, later, Daffodil Cottage.

Arthur Budden (1832-1922)

Born in England, Arthur Blake Budden arrived in Sydney in 1855. By January 1857, he had set up as a storekeeper in a bark hut at Caloola. In 1858, Arthur moved to nearby Rockley, the emerging centre for the area’s mining and agriculture. There he opened a store, The Rockley Stores, in a stable, later followed by a weatherboard store and residence. In 1859, he married Sarah Stanger and, following her death, her sister Emily. Their father, Joseph Stanger, a fellow Wesleyan Methodist, partnered to build Rockley’s flour mill, opened in 1862. Rockley’s growing prosperity called for a bank, which Arthur Budden provided in 1876 with an agency in his store. The agency evolved into a branch of the A.J.S. Bank with an impressive bank building and manager’s residence, with Arthur as resident manager until 1891. His business ventures included a mail coach service to the Cow Flat copper mines. Equally involved in community matters, he helped fund the building of Rockley’s school and establishing its School of Arts. Arthur Budden’s role in the development of Rockley is recognised in the naming of Budden Street, along which his mill, now a museum, and his bank and residence are located.

Harry Hodge (1904-1973) Brian Hodge (1930-2018)

Alfred Harold (Harry) Hodge and his nephew Brian Colin Hodge were instrumental in recording the goldrush and later periods of Hill End and Tambaroora history, based on their personal and family memories and meticulous scholarly research in the Mitchell Library. Their exemplary work forms the basis for subsequent research by family and local historians. Harry, born in Hill End, committed forty years to researching the history of the district, culminating in his trilogy, The Hill End Story (1964, 1965, 1972), together with a guidebook for visitors. In 1971, Harry Hodge was awarded the MBE for his “valuable contributions to historical research, notably in the Hill End district”. Brian Hodge was equally prolific as an historian, publishing six local history books, beginning with Valleys of Gold: The Goldfields Story 1851-1861, Book I (1976), soon followed by a second volume, Frontiers of Gold (1979). His final book was Golden Hill End (2009). Both Harry and Brian followed successful careers in teaching which took them away from Hill End, but they returned whenever possible to their roots. Together with their books, they have left a rich trove of manuscripts and research notes that will prove to be a wonderful legacy for future historians.

MEDIA RELEASE 30 April 2020

The extraordinary story of the Bathurst War Memorial Carillon has been told in a new video production developed by Bathurst Regional Council.

Mayor Bobby Bourke said the Carillon was both a historically significant and a deeply special place honouring residents of the Bathurst region who have served, and who continue to serve, their country in all theatres of war.

“The story of the Carillon began in the years following the First World War, and its completion in 1933 reflects the determination of the Bathurst community to properly honour their families, friends and neighbours,” he said.

“The community came together to fund the construction and they shared a vision to create a fitting memorial, something beautiful not only for themselves but for future generations”.

The video tour includes a behind the scenes look at the inside of the Carillon tower, as well as incorporating rare archival footage of the opening ceremony in November 1933 sourced from the National Film and Sound Archive in Canberra.

“We all know that it was impossible for us to gather at the Carillon this year for ANZAC Day as the community has done every year since the very last red brick was laid on 24 April 1933”, Mayor Bourke said. “But we know that although physically separate we were still honouring together, and this video is a wonderful and timely reminder of our proud history and of the resilience of our community”.

The Carillon video may be viewed on YouTube or at https://www.bathurstregion.com.au/history-of-the-carillon and is a part of a new series of informative and entertaining behind-the-scenes tours currently being produced by the Bathurst Visitor Information Centre, Museums Bathurst and Bathurst Regional Art Gallery.

ENDS
Media contact: Media Officer

MEDIA RELEASE 27 April 2020

To support local businesses and to encourage spending within the region, Council will run a competition where residents can win a $200 Buy Local Gift Card every week for ten weeks commencing 1 May.

The Buy Local campaign currently has 130 stores involved in the initiative and customers shopping at any of these businesses go in for a chance to win even if they don’t use a gift card. Customers will receive a unique identifying number when they make a purchase which they need to enter online at www.bathurstbusinesshub.com.au to go into the competition.

Mayor Bobby Bourke said this competition provides an opportunity to support economic prosperity and jobs growth within the Bathurst region.

“It will remind our community of the benefits of buying locally and will support our local retailers and businesses,” he said.

A winner will be drawn every Friday at 12.00pm from the previous week’s entries. Winners can collect their gift card from Council’s Civic Centre.

The Bathurst Buy Local program has been hugely successful since launching in 2015 and during this time has seen $530,096 loaded on to the gift cards.

For more information, a full list of participating stores, to get involved or details on where to purchase the gift cards, visit www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au or www.facebook.com/BathurstBusiness

ENDS

Media contact: Media Officer

MEDIA RELEASE 27 April 2020

A new buy local promotion is underway as part of Council’s stimulus measures to encourage spending at local retailers.

The promotion is running through the Bathurst Regional Council Events Facebook page and will endorse a range of gift ideas for mums available from local businesses. It will feature items such as clothing, flowers, haircare and beauty products, giftware, produce and vouchers.

Mayor Bobby Bourke said it was important that we keep supporting our business community.

“The Bathurst Regional Council Events Facebook page has a following of almost 10 000 people who are highly engaged with our community. This page can help promote the businesses that are still open and products they are offering,” he said.

Businesses such as eateries, women’s clothing stores, florists, beauticians and hairdressers have been asked to submit photos, product and purchasing information. The promotion will run until Mother’s Day 10, May. For more information or to get involved visit the Bathurst Regional Council Events Facebook page.

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Media contact: Media Officer

MEDIA RELEASE 2 April 2020

YourSay

Council is currently seeking feedback on:

• Renewable Energy Action Plan

• Vision Bathurst 2040: Bathurst Regional Local Strategic Planning Statement

Visit yoursay.bathurst.nsw.gov.au for more information or to provide feedback.

Bathurst Library

“Yells, Bells and Smells: The ANZACS in Malta” Thursday 30 April - 6pm

Join researcher Diana Sillato online to explore the critical role of Malta during the Gallipoli campaign

and the hospital base established in Malta known as the “Nurse of the Mediterranean”.

Hear about over 70 ANZACS from Bathurst and the Central West who were treated in the

hospitals in Malta and sent letters home. A link to join the online presentation will be sent

to participants by registering through Eventbrite, simply search for Bathurst Library.

Suttor, Mitre Lambert Street Roundabout Construction

From Monday 27 April to Friday 1 May, Telstra will excavate the ground to construct a concrete slab to protect underground cable which will close vehicle access on the western corner of Lambert and Mitre heading towards Hill Street.

It is envisaged to reinstate traffic at the end of each shift through the placement steel plates over the open excavation. In the event that traffic cannot be reinstated due to exiting service issues, detours will be in place for the duration of works.

All other traffic movements between Mitre, Suttor and Lambert Streets will be enabled under traffic controlled conditions. Pedestrians will need to deviate locally around the work site per pedestrian routes delineated by barrier fencing.

Parking for access to the shops is available in the carpark near the Scout Hall. Council is asking that motorists allow for possible delays when travelling through the intersection and to please follow signage and directions from staff on site.

For more information visit yoursay.bathurst.nsw.gov.au

Our City: BRAG Town

Bathurst Regional Art Gallery are creating a collaborative digital collage “Our City: BRAG Town”. People are encouraged to design their own home, park, shop or other parts of town to form part of a digital city layout. To submit your design, download a section of town via the BRAG website www.bathurstart.com.au.

Designs can be made digitally, via Photoshop, Paint or a similar software and uploaded to the BRAG website. For hand-drawn designs, you can print a section of the town and then scan or photograph your drawing to upload. Alternatively, designs can be posted on Instagram and entered by tagging @bathurstregionalartgallery and using #BRAGourcity #bragtown.

#TakeAMoment Campaign

The Bathurst Visitor Information Centre is inviting the community to “Take a Moment” through an online campaign. The initiative encourages everyone to take a moment of self-care and revitalisation, but also taking a moment to capture an image of the moment to share with your community. Examples of “Take A Moment” could include grabbing takeaway from one Bathurst’s many outstanding restaurants, a moment to sip a cup of coffee or a moment to exercise outdoors. Use the #TakeAMoment when sharing on social media and go to visitbathurst.com.au for inspiration.

Heritage Assistance Grants

Applications are now invited for small grants for the following funds:

Bathurst Region Heritage Fund

Provides fund for the repair and maintenance of older buildings in the region. The program is supported by the NSW Heritage Branch of the Office of Environment and Heritage.

Bathurst CBD Main Street Improvement Fund

Provides small grants to assist property owners and tenants to improve, repair and maintain buildings within the Bathurst CBD. 

Bathurst Region Interpretation Fund

Provides small grants for the preparation of Conservation Management Plans, historic publications and interpretation projects to promote and interpret the region’s history. 

All applications close Friday 29 May 2020. Applications for funding must be made on the Council’s application form which is available on Council’s website at www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au or from our Civic Centre. For more information call 6333 6211.

Financial Assistance COVID-19 Stimulus Measures

Council at its meeting on 15 April resolved to provide a range of financial assistance and stimulus measures to assist local businesses and the Bathurst community in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The individual financial assistance measures are detailed in Mayoral Minute presented to the meeting and are up to $408,000 in value.

Council is inviting submissions on the report for a period of 28 days from organisations and individuals in relation to Councils proposed assistance measures. For more information and to review the report in full, visit www.yoursay.bathurst.nsw.gov.au. Should you be unable to download the document, please contact Council on 6333 6111 to arrange for the draft to be posted to you. Please take account of additional postal times for receipt of the hard copy.

Submissions must be made to Council by 4.00pm Monday 18 May 2020. Submissions can be lodged via YourSay Bathurst or in writing to the General Manager, Private Mail bag 17, Bathurst 2795.

Bathurst Writers’ & Readers’ Festival

The 2020 Bathurst Writers’ and Readers’ Festival will be a special, stay-at-home event held from Friday 1 May to Sunday 3 May. All events will be live streamed or pre-recorded on the BMEC Bathurst Facebook page. Chances for engagement will be available in the Facebook live streams and on Instagram by using the hashtag #bathurstreaders and tagging @bmec_bx.

The program:

Friday 1 May

5.50pm 2020 Festival Opening

6.00pm Books You Might Have Missed

Saturday 2 May

10.00am Storytime With Bathurst Library

11.00am Multicultural Storytelling Project

2.00pm Poetry Pickings

6.00pm Creative Conversation

Sunday 3 May

11.00am Great Festival Read

1.30pm Play Readings

2.40pm Wrap-up and Feedback

For more information, visit the BMEC Bathurst Facebook page www.facebook.com/BMECbathurst

ENDS

Media contact: Media Officer
M: 0448 685 340 E: corinne.boer@bathurst.nsw.gov.au