Creative Christmas tree Winner after nearly 2000 votes! - The ...
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MidCoast Council Meet Local Legend Star
Updates Donna Rankin Pet
The Forster Tuncurry
E
F R E The ‘TFT’ is your local independent newspaper distributed fortnightly to
Hallidays Point, Black Head, Tallwoods Village, Tuncurry, Forster
Pacific Palms, Charlotte Bay, Smiths Lake, Coomba Park, Bungwahl and Seal Rocks.
Wednesday 23rd December 2020 Circulation 6000 N0.10
Creative Christmas Tree Winner
after nearly 2000 votes!
Top far left: Deidre Stokes, President Great
Lakes Palliative Care Support (also a Quota
member) with Kate Cornell from Beach
Bums.
Bottom far left: Luke Austin from Business
Chamber with Quota President Rowena
Woods drawing winners of vouchers from
barrel with Quota members Helen Pearse
and Jan Irvine (in the background).
Left: The winning Xmas tree at Beach Bums.
QUOTA Forster-Tuncurry are delighted with the
success of our Creative Christmas Tree Competition
and thank the many outlets that participated. The
creations were amazing and must have also caught
shoppers' attention, given the nearly 2,000 voting
slips collected!
The tree that collected the most votes (268) was at
Beach Bums on Main Beach Forster. They nominated
Great Lakes Palliative Support Care to be the recipient
of the $1,000 donation from QUOTA. A case of win
- win.
Close contenders with over 100 votes were Fairways
Hair, One Hair & Beauty, Twin Towns Medical Centre
and Ballistic Chix.
Ten lucky shoppers/voters have also each won a $50
local shopping voucher.
Thank you to all who participated and we hope it
added to the Christmas Cheer, as well as benefitting
our local community.
See you in the New Year, watch out for our blue shirts!
Christine Armstrong
THE FORSTER TUNCURRY 23rd December 2020 THE FORSTER TUNCURRY 23rd December 2020
Community News Page 2 Community News Page 3
Welcome to your tenth TFT Giant Book Fair on again at We st pa c C om m uni t y H e l i co pte r
The Forster Tuncurry Tu n c u r r y M e m o r i a l H a l l S uppo r t G ro up s e e ks a s s i sta nc e
We currently distribute 6,000 FREE copies a fortnight from Hallidays Point to Seal Rocks. A Merry Christmas and a safe holiday
FREE digital flipbook is available at: www.theforstertuncurry.com.au season to all our readers and supporters.
The Forster Tuncurry will continue to be
Our commitment is to provide a newspaper that is factual, informative, and full of local published fortnightly throughout the
stories and community news to share. We are here to promote and support our amazing local Christmas break.
volunteers, community groups, sporting groups, schools, events and businesses.
By the time this edition is published more
will be known about the latest Covid
Submissions: www.theforstertuncurry.com.au Graphic & Web support: Golden Age Media,
outbreak that has reached Forster. Keep
Email: info@theforstertuncurry.com.au a locally owned business. Contact Greg
updated at www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/
Golden on 1300 766 713.
Post: PO Box 4228, Forster Shopping Village latest-news-and-updates
NSW 2428 Printed: Spotpress in Marrickville NSW, on
sustainably sourced paper. Spotpress is a Upcoming local events may be cancelled
Editor: Mary Yule Phone: 0413410492 family owned business who support new so please check their sites online closer
Business Hours: 9:30 - 5pm (Monday - Friday) regional newspapers. Contact Murray Keir to the dates.
Advertising & Classifieds: Please see our on 0439 060 700. See the back page for more photos from
Advertising and Classifieds page on our Puzzles & Cartoons: Supplied by Auspac Great Lakes Cheerleading and page 9 for
website. Media, an Australian company with Forster Tuncurry Little Athletics.
Print & Radio packages are available with Australian cartoons.
Thank you to Roberta Pearce and Vanda
our local community radio station Great The Forster Tuncurry: Proud to be a locally Gooley for their fantastic expertise
Lakes FM. Contact Belinda Bouras on owned family business. behind the scenes.
65558433.
General Disclaimer: The next edition deadline is 5pm Wednesday the 30th of December,
By contributing to this publication, you agree that the material is to the best of your prior to distribution Wednesday & Thursday the 6th & 7th of January.
knowledge accurate, and is neither deceptive or misleading, in breach of copyright, or in The Rotary Club of Lower Midcoast (formerly stock up on summer reading whilst at the same
breach of any other laws and regulations. The information provided within the contents of We welcome your stories and letters. Rotary Club of Tuncurry Forster) is once again time assisting Rotary to raise funds for many
this publication is the view of the individuals who submit the details. These views are not All submissions: www.theforstertuncurry.com.au holding a Giant Book Fair at Tuncurry Memorial community projects.
necessarily those of the Editor. Whilst every care is taken, The Forster Tuncurry takes no Hall from Saturday 9th January until Sunday So, whether you are looking for a good novel, a
responsibility for errors or omissions. 17th January 2021. The Book Fair will be open
We acknowledge the Worimi People, the traditional custodians of the cookbook, a travel book, a gardening book or a The Forster Tuncurry group has been The group desperately needs new
from 9am until 4pm each day. Fundraising for this essential Community members.
land, waterways and sky of the Worimi Nation where this newspaper is children’s book, you will be amazed by the large
distributed. With great respect we acknowledge their Elders, past, present Once again thousands of books will be selection available. Rotarians will be there to Service for around 20 years in our Our meetings are held on the first
and future. Community.
Distribution ‘The Forster Tuncurry’ is available, both fiction and nonfiction. The
majority of books are sold per centimetre
assist you find what you are looking for. Wednesday of the month at Sporties
available from Hallidays If you would like to know more phone Clive The costs in providing this service to the Tuncurry at 3.00pm.
Outlets Point to Seal Rocks. measured by the thickness of the books. All Davies 0412 653061. Mid North Coast are significant. If you can't attend you are more than
fiction books will be sorted in alphabetical
Diamond Beach We encourage you to leave order and nonfiction books will be sorted into Rotary look forward to seeing you at their Book A mission to attend an accident, search welcome to participate in our fundraising.
your car behind and walk many categories. Fair. and rescue costs $4000 an hour to operate Anyone interested in assisting could you
HWAY
to your nearest pick up
Red Head place for your FREE local This is a wonderful opportunity for you to Clive Davies
the Helicopter. please contact:
HIG
F Black Head community newspaper. The group's activities in Forster Tuncurry Tony Waterson Secretary 0419365258.
IC
CI revolve around Bunning's BBQ, Raffles,
PA
Hallidays Point Please take one on your
Failford way out for a covid-safe
community. 25th Birthday for Great Lakes Bucket Collections and any fundraising we
can get involved in.
Evening View Club
Star Business
Hallidays Point
Foodworks Hallidays Point
Diamond Beach Takeaway
TH
LA
N
E
KE
S Tallwoods Country Club
Tuncurry
WA
Y
Oasis Service Station
Woolworths
TSG Stop n Go
Access Fuels Service Station
Tully’s Tuncurry News
TUNCURRY Forster
FORSTER Beach Bums Café Main Beach
Tulls News on Wharf St
Forster Information Centre Meet Swim School Instructors Jo-Ann Warren, Cassandra Keen, Brian Bartlett, Ellen
Little Mart on Little St Mille and Sharon Bourke from the YMCA in Forster. One of the many places where
Pearl Energy Service Station you can pick up your free copy of the TFT newspaper.
Farmers Patch on Lake St
Great Lakes YMCA
Three good reasons to
Plunge Café on Boundary St
Coomba Park Coles Service Station
Green Point MidCoast Library
advertise with us
Coles Current members who have been belonged to the club for the 25 years.
Woolworths
We were lucky enough to be able to have up and activities were put on ‘hold’ until our first
Stocklands Customer Care to 80 members attend our 25th Birthday Bash limited numbers meeting in September, a
Forster Keys Mini Mart dinner and to celebrate Xmas at the Sporties, few more people in October and just on 80 for
Pacific Palms Tuncurry, on Monday 23 November 2020. November. No meetings now until the 25th
Blueys Supamart 1. Reach your exact local customer base. Because of Covid 19 our usual monthly dinners January 2021. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests Business: Tuncurry Post Office in South David and Bruce have returned to run
Kembali Café and Education of Women Street. the business themselves. They like to
whereby we all work Best Part of the Job: Meeting the people wear bright shirts. People can’t believe
Charlotte Bay 2. Promote services & products that locals are seeking hard raising funds for who come in and having a friendly chat. that we can wear what we want in a Post
Pacific Metro Pertroleum close to home. underprivileged children Being able to help and serve the people. Office. They like wearing their bright loud
Palms Foodworks Charlotte Bay via the Smith Family We like to give advice to people and let Hawaiian shirts.
Charlotte Bay Smiths Lake whilst having fun, outings, them know the best way to send their Any tips for other businesses? Be
Blueys Beach Smiths Lake Friendly Grocer 3. Free and accessible newspaper with online version. dinners, guest speakers
and importantly, meeting
parcels. Who could imagine that that it friendly, interested and make it personal.
would be enjoyable selling stamps? No business would survive if people
Coomba Park and making new friends. didn’t come in to buy your product. Be a
What would you like your customers
Bungwahl Sandbar
Pollards General store If you are interested in
becoming a member, you to know? We bought this business in part of the community.
Bungwahl
See all our great prices & deals at would be very welcome so 1972. Over time my three sons Warwick, Interview with Judy Thompson.
Smiths Bungwahl Fuel & Liquor
Lake Seal Rocks
www.theforstertuncurry.com.au come along to our dinner
meeting on 25th January Do you know a great local business to feature here? Please submit their
Seal Rocks General Store 6pm at the Sporties. business name and a brief description to:
Seal Rocks Judy Long www.theforstertuncurry.com.au
Enquiries: 0413410492 or
The We will contact them and publish when space permits.
Forster Tuncurry info@theforstertuncurry.com.au
Left: Current committee Star Business is a free promotion of goodwill for local businesses that either regularly
members with President supports our community and/or local environment, or provides a unique service or product
Cathie Grove. to this area.
The Forster Tuncurry www.theforstertuncurry.com.au PO Box 4228 Forster Shopping Village NSW 2428
THE FORSTER TUNCURRY 23rd December 2020 THE FORSTER TUNCURRY 23rd December 2020
Community News Page 4 Community News Page 5
Manning-Great Lakes It ’s ti me to star t h elp in g n atu re MEC upgrade gets $1 million Covid
Police District Crime Wrap adapt for b u shf ire resilien ce “Arts and culture is about MidCoast Council Mayor David West said
outbreak
He was conveyed to Forster Police Station for
enriching communities with
sound, colour and creativity,”
the planned upgrade is the single biggest
investment since the Manning Entertainment
reaches
Breath Analysis, which returned a reading of
0.108 grams of alcohol in 210 litres of breath.
His licence was suspended, and he was charged
Dr Gillespie said.
“The MEC has
Centre was built as a bicentennial project in
1987.
Forster
with Mid-Range Prescribed Concentration been the Arts and On the 20th of December NSW Health stated
of Alcohol and Use Mobile Phone While cultural heart of that two people who visited Stockland Forster
Driving. He was refused bail to appear at Port our region for 30 on Tuesday 15th December between 2:30 and
Macquarie Local Court on 14 December 2020. 3:00pm have since tested positive to COVID-19.
years and these
About 6.15pm last Friday (11 December 2020), upgrades will NSW Health has advised that the case is
About 2.40am Sunday 13 December, Police officers from Manning/Great Lakes Highway ensure we attract a deemed as low risk due to the duration and
stopped a Silver Mazda 3 being driven south Patrol were conducting roadside breath testing limited contact of the visit.
larger number and
upon The Lakes Way, Forster. Police stopped on The Lakes Way, Forster, when they stopped They were also at Cafe Toscano Wednesday
a Toyota Hilux utility. The driver, a 29-year-old more diverse acts
the vehicle for the purpose of Random Breath closer to home.” 16th from 6pm to 7:45pm, and contact
Testing. The driver, a 25-year-old Rainbow Forster man, was breath tested and allegedly tracing has traced them to Beach Bums Cafe,
Flat man returned a positive result and was returned a positive reading. He was arrested The community is today celebrating The new theatre will be a multi- Wednesday 16th from 8am to 9am, and
arrested for the purpose of breath analysis. The and taken to Forster Police Station, where he a $1 million injection in new arts and purpose space with state-of-the art Thursday 17th from 8am to 9am. Anyone who
breath analysis returned a result of 0.084 grams underwent a breath analysis, which returned attended these venues during these times
of alcohol in 210 litres of breath. His licence an alleged reading of 0.364. The man was culture funding for the Mid North facilities featuring retractable seating
are advised to get tested and follow medical
was immediately suspended and charged with charged with high range PCA and resisting Coast’s home of live entertainment for up to 150 patrons. There’ll be a
advice.
Mid-Range Prescribed Concentration of Alcohol police while in custody. He was granted The Manning Entertainment Centre versatile rigging system to accommodate many “Our community is richer for having cultural
conditional bail and will appear at Forster Local different types of shows, cinema projection They are directing people to monitor for
and is to appear at Forster Local Court on 13 (MEC). facilities like the MEC & Art Gallery and I am so symptoms and if you feel unwell self-isolate
January 2021. Court on Wednesday 13 January 2021. The equipment and audio gear.
man’s licence was also suspended. Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie very grateful to our local Nationals Members and undertake a COVID-19 test.
About 2.20pm Saturday 12 December, Police said the funding will support the MEC to bring Rod Illidge from Committee of the MEC said David Gillespie and Stephen Bromhead for their
attended Second Head Lookout, Forster, The latest information is available at www.nsw.
the best of arts and culture to the people of our this space will be perfect for smaller and more investment.” gov.au/covid-19/latest-news-and-updates
and located a male person in a vehicle with The Bushfire Royal Commission’s circumstances would release seed onto recently
region. intimate productions. It will also facilitate
cannabis and a bong. The male person, a recent report makes for difficult burnt soil to regenerate. However, these “It’s really exciting we are building an
vegetation communities have been impacted by masterclasses Entertainment and Cultural precinct that will Covid 19 Testing sites for the
22-year-old Cessnock man, admitted that he reading, but the hardest part to and workshops,
was the owner of the cannabis and bong. A
swallow is that these compounding
the increased frequency of fires to the extent
that across thousands of hectares they can’t so the number of
deliver amazing shows, concerts and events to Manning Great Lakes
check by Police revealed that he was currently the MidCoast,” Mayor West said.
on bail from Wyong Court, and one of the natural disasters that were last year produce seed fast enough for that to happen. in-house events Forster
conditions of his bail was to not commit further unprecedented, are now our collective A common restoration practice after fires is to will increase “This fund is all about building on that rich arts • Forster Private Hospital
offences. The male was placed under arrest future. re-seed with the same species to return nature markedly. and culture offering and enhancing it – not only
and charged at Forster Police Station with 15 South St, Forster
to the pre-fire state. Whilst this is an effective “Our final for those living in our regional towns, but for
Possess Prohibited Drug and Breaching Bail The report forewarns of a future marked by those who’ll flock to those towns as visitors, Ph - 6555 133
short-term strategy, we know that these designs of the
Conditions. He was refused bail by Police and extreme weather and back-to-back natural efforts may be lost in subsequent short interval keen for a unique arts and cultural experience. • Forster Laverty Pathology
upon appearing at Port Macquarie Bail Court “These incidents show a total disregard for disasters, reinforced by the Bureau of theatre space
fires. Instead, we need to start developing a
on 13 December, was granted conditional bail the safety of not only themselves, but for all Meteorology and CSIRO State of the Climate have now been The MEC upgrades are possible due to 29 Breckenridge St, Forster
renovation approach, for example by using seed
to appear at Wyong Local Court on 2 February road users,” said Traffic and Highway Patrol 2020 report. Intense bushfires, droughts, completed, DA $1.55 million in funding from the State
collected from plants that flower and produce Ph – 6554 7129
2021. Command Port Stephens-Manning Sector, extreme temperatures, flooding and hailstorms approved and
seed earlier, by using forms that are more fire Government’s Regional Cultural Fund and $1
Acting Inspector Michael Buko. “As we head are forecast as the new norm, and they will out to tender, Taree
About 10.30pm Friday 11 December, Police tolerant like the lignotuber form from Tasmanian million bequeathed from the estate of local
into the Christmas/New Year period, we see impact all parts of our society.
saw a gold VW Passat stopped at traffic lights Alpine Ash populations, or consider new tree we expect philanthropist, Beryl June Flett. • Manning Base Hospital
at Beach St & Manning St, Tuncurry. At the more traffic on coastal roads, and the potential Mother Nature is tough, but the scale and species that are better suited to increased fire construction to
for crashes increases.” pace of climate change means that in many frequency and changed climatic conditions. The Federal Governments contribution is Ph – 6592 9111
time, the driver was seen talking on a mobile begin in the first
phone. Police stopped the car on Manning St, Police are out and about over this holiday cases the environment won’t be able to adapt half of 2021,” Mr funded from the Local Roads and Community • Taree Health Hub Respiratory Clinic
Adaptation in practice
Tuncurry and spoke with the driver, a 43-year- period. Every Police car does random breath on its own and the places that we love will be Infrastructure Program.
permanently altered, with flow-on impacts to We can also restore landscapes with native trees Illidge said. 15 Butterworth Lane, Taree
old Forster man. He was submitted a Roadside testing. Don’t drink and drive. Have a plan B to
Breath Test that returned a positive reading. local communities and economies. Our ability to that are better suited to the changing climate Ph – 6552 5533
ensure you get home safely. by using seed of the same species sourced from
Austin McFarland .Architects
help nature prepare for and respond to climate
Star Volunteer
change will require a new scale of intervention drier, hotter geographic regions within Australia.
and new technologies. Greening Australia has undertaken a number
of trials with universities across Australia to
Importantly, it will also require new ways demonstrate that this is a viable solution to
of thinking. As a society we need to break a reduce species lost in many regions, such as
long-established cycle of trying to recover our Eucalyptus viminalis (Manna Gum or Tasmanian
Name: Yanusz Hascheck natural places by dwelling on what once was, White Gum) in the Tasmanian midlands and in
and instead focus on practical climate change the NSW Monaro region.
Organisation: Green Bikes at the adaptation and mitigation solutions with a long-
Resource Recovery Centre in Tuncurry. term view on what will be. Where the rate of climate change exceeds a
plant or animals’ ability to adapt to the change,
What does this organization do in our In the conservation sector we call this ecological we should also consider creating insurance
community? renovation. populations in safer locations or translocating
We have three main aims. To have Inspired by nature, underpinned by science plants and animals to new, better suited places
Our collective approach to climate adaptation like we’re doing with Eucalyptus morrisbyi with
more bums on bike seats, to keep stuff our Tasmanian partners.
out of the metal pile and to provide a and ecological renovation must be science-led
community service for anyone wanting with a focus on conserving biodiversity, and it This adaption work is supported by Climate
to learn bike repair skills. must draw on Traditional Owner knowledge of Future Plots, which are areas of revegetated and
Australia’s unique landscapes. restored land that contain plant genetics from
We provide road-worthy bikes at a With the support of research institutes, we can climates that match the future climate, providing
cheap price and have turned over combine knowledge of climate future models an opportunity to help us better understand
around 400 bikes this year. We started with plant characteristics to better predict the resilience of plants to climate change and
with a small NRMA grant 8 years ago and prepare for change. We can then use this to successfully execute interventions. With the
and have been self-sufficient for many knowledge to deliver on-ground action and support of citizen scientists and researchers
undertake replicated experiments across the we can see which plants are more resilient to
years since then. climate change to distinguish between those
country to understand the effectiveness of our
Anybody can buy bikes from us. We climate actions and ‘learn by doing.’ that will thrive in a warmer climate and those
have grandparents coming in for their that won’t.
visiting grandkids who keep getting Breaking the cycle
Future focused
bigger every year. We are cheaper than There are likely to be large areas where
unparalleled fire heat from last summer’s Last year’s fires burnt over 24 million hectares
hiring bikes. across Australia, much of which may require
bushfires combined with ongoing drought may
We also teach skills and provide tools have destroyed the biological mechanisms intervention to regenerate. While we don’t have
free of charge, apart from parts, for by which many plants are able to reestablish all the answers, we do already have many of
those who need help looking after naturally. the solutions needed to reduce the impact of
climate change on the plants and animals we
their bikes. We are reopening Boxing For example, some tree species like our iconic care about and to increase nature’s resilience
Day and can show people how to Alpine Ash are adapted to fire and in traditional to extreme weather events for generations to
assemble their new Xmas bikes. come.
What is your role? (boys and girls) from each Highschool for As we reflect on a year that has thrown
8 weeks at a time and were teaching them unprecedented challenges at humanity and
I’m the Coordinator of Green Bikes.
the skills of bike maintenance. We expect to nature, we can no longer hide from the reality
What is the best part of your job? resume this in 2021 next year. that the world as we know it is changing.
Unfortunately, natural disasters such as last
The interaction with people who work here For enquiries ring 0458809975. summer’s bushfires will happen again and again,
and the people who come and buy the bikes. with increasing frequency and severity.
Editor’s note: See Letter to the Editor
Before Covid we were mentoring four kids regarding Green Bikes on page 6. But as the Bushfire Royal Commission report
states, unprecedented is not a reason to
be unprepared. Acting now with ecological
Do you know an amazing Local Volunteer? Please send a renovation initiatives is essential if we want
to keep our great Australian landscapes for
high resolution photo and answers to generations to come.
www.theforstertuncurry.com.au Left: Dr Elisa Raulings is a Science and Plan-
ning Manager at Greening Australia.
THE FORSTER TUNCURRY 23rd December 2020 THE FORSTER TUNCURRY 23rd December 2020
Community News Page 6 Community News Page 7
D r ivin g forc e th ro ugh a chal l e ngi ng ye ar for local stu d ent Jessica Boost for 10 Myall Lake Early Education Centres Brommy’s Community
take care of her. That was the most challenging CEF’s mission is “to help close the education the bar high for myself,” she says. “I want to said the centres have each received grants of Update
week this year. I was juggling the transition participation gap that exists between country do everything well and I’ll always do the best I up to $15 000 through the NSW Government’s
from uni to online, taking care of my bedridden and city students”, according to CEF CEO can.” Whilst she’s still exploring different fields Quality Learning Environments (QLE) grants.
mum and trying not to get sick myself as I could Juliet Petersen. That gap was particularly within her speciality, she sees huge promise “This funding will provide a welcome boost for
not afford it.” noticeable in STEM fields. “Historically the labs for her future. “I do have a keen interest in the our communities, which have had a tough year
Jessica is moving into her third year of a and technologies required for STEM-related potential of stem cells and being able to use after facing drought, bushfires and Covid-19.”
Bachelor of Science degree, and plans to major study made this prohibitive for many rural them for neuron replacements,” she says. “I “These grants will improve early education in
in bioengineering systems, which will lead to and regional areas,” says Juliet. “Without also love the idea of genome editing to prevent our region through projects such as enhancing
a Masters in Biomedical Engineering. “That’s appropriate investment into the resources or cure genetic diseases. There’s unlimited outdoor play areas, creating yarning circles,
my end goal. It’s engineering for anything to do needed, promotion of STEM was minimal.” potential in biomedical engineering. It’s all so installing bike tracks and more.”
with medical purposes, like prosthetics, stem Happily, she has seen progress in the area exciting.” "Early childhood education is incredibly
cell research, artificial organs, artificial blood in recent years. “More recently the school Jessica says the GLEF funds have helped her important and these grants will help educators
and nanotechnology,” she says. curriculum is much more encouraging and immensely in 2020. She had unexpected provide high quality learning environments for 2020 has been a massive year for Forster
geared towards STEM and the opportunities flights back home while at the same time has Stephen presenting a cheque to Great Lakes our children," Mr Bromhead said. Tuncurry and the wider Myall Lakes
Her interest in biomedical engineering was
available in the workforce. We are seeing the been paying for rent in Melbourne while not Children’s Centre Director Natasha Chandler. This funding is in addition to the fast tracked region, we were challenged with drought,
piqued unconventionally, by her grandmother
Supported by the Audi Foundation tagging her in a Facebook post about resultant programs and scholarships facilitated living there. The financial impacts have been Learning at ten Preschools and day $14 409 QLE grant for Great Lakes Children’s bushfires and a global pandemic. Despite
and Great Lakes Education Fund engineering studies. “I had been thinking about through effective partnerships with tertiary considerable. Centre which was announced in October, after these unforeseen trials we’ve also
education providers, business, industry and
care centres throughout Myall Lakes the center indicated an urgent need for funds. achieved a lot for our community.
(GLEF), young local Jessica Hall hopes psychology, but knew it wasn’t quite right. As GLEF is supporting Jessica, along with another will be enriched by almost $150 000
to make an impact in biomedical soon as I learned about biomedical engineering agencies. It’s a really exciting time for students 22 local students, with a grant for studies in “Great Lakes Children centre has already
funding to improve resources and Health has remained front of mind with
studying STEM.” finished upgrading their outdoor play area and For more information on the guidelines
engineering. I thought ‘this is what I’ve been looking for the 2021. GLEF Chairperson Steve Nicholas says,
activities. the kids are over the moon with their new and of the QLE grants go to www.nsw.gov.au/ plans for the Forster Public Hospital
whole time,’” she says. For Jessica, it is hard to stay motivated in the “Awarding grants to 23 students at our final early-childhood-education forging forward, sharing in a $7.9million
Jessica has been living at home in Forster and Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead improved outdoor space,” Mr Bromhead said.
Her first year of study was supported by current state of remote study. “I’m living the meeting for the year is the cream on the cake pool of planning money and three
studying online since March. "COVID-19 has same day over and over again. I get up, I eat, that is GLEF. To be in a financial position to do
both GLEF and an Audi Foundation Science, additional ambulances delivered in
Work recommences on Forster Civic Prescinct
created a waterfall of problems everywhere I sit at my desk. It feels like the same endless so is testament to the work of our committee
throughout my everyday life, but I am Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) Tuncurry.
scholarship, the result of a partnership day since March. Even though study is online, and the wonderful support we receive from our
comforted that at least I am not alone in that. it’s just as demanding as it’s always been,” she local community.” Sporting clubs have been big winners,
I flew home on short notice, in part because between the Audi Foundation and GLEF’s with major projects such as Forster
parent body, the Country Education Foundation says. Perhaps that’s partly a result of her nature
my mum fell ill and I had to race back home to – she’s always been driven as a student. “I set Partially sourced from www.vogue.org.au Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie “Our supporters in the project are heavily Tuncurry Golf Club receiving $3million to
of Australia (CEF). visited the Forster Civic Precinct on the 18th of invested in the stock markets, hotel, retail build new facilities, Boronia Park began
December to receive a works update following and commercial property markets. And of construction for a major facilities upgrade
Watch Out, Kids About these holidays Letters and Feedback the recommencement of work last week. Dr
Gillespie said all trades groups will go back to
course, please remember our business is
the retirement industry. Covid 19 had single
thanks to a $730,500 grant and Forster
Surf Life Saving Club have received a total
the project on 18 January 2021. He explained handedly stopped us all.” of $3million to construct a new base on
that the Covid-19 pandemic has caused health Mr Graham said the Civic space will be Main Beach.
Little Blue Dinosaur Foundation and and economic disaster across the globe and
MidCoast Council will join forces again The ‘Letters & Feedback’ are best limited to 250 words. The writer’s name and town will completed by December 2021, with the We’ve improved road safety for locals
be included unless specifically requested otherwise. This newspaper intends to provide an Australia’s housing and construction sector was residential rear tower to be completed by the
this holiday season to reduce child and tourists alike thanks to a $1.6million
opportunity of reply for any person/organisation involved before publishing. no different. following September in 2022.
pedestrian injuries and fatalities across upgrade of the Failford Rd Pacific
the region. Solaris developments Coyne Graham said, “Council’s patience has provided the clarity Highway entrance. Transport has also
“After one of our workers tested positive to to find the best solution to the continued been upgraded with the delivery of three
Motorists will begin to see the ‘Holiday Covid, we stopped construction. We were brand new coaches to service the Taree/
Time; Slow Down, Kids Around’ signage viability of the project, and to ensure that
bringing workers from Sydney to our town and all key elements to it, Civic Space, retail Forster to Newcastle route.
around the beaches, parks and other busy at the time Sydney was experiencing the fallout
recreational locations, urging people to space, retirement space and short stay Following the drought we have also
of the Ruby Princess crisis. We were learning accommodation options, are completed.”
slow down and take extra care on local committed $8.5million to secure water
how quickly the virus was spreading.”
roads during the holiday period. supplies in the Mid Coast.
Young Local
What so you think is going well in our
local area and Australia?
In our local area I think how clean the
town is with all the graffiti gone with
what Ted Bickford does. Because of him FROM MEMBER FOR MYALL LAKES Stephen Bromhead
this town looks great. I have met a lot of
people through him and learnt a lot of
good trade skills like painting. He is an The holiday season has arrived and with it I’ve found myself
awesome bloke. Moir.com.au
reflecting on the 2020. It’s been a year full of twists and turns,
I think Australia has done a decent job
with how we are dealing with Covid. Thank you to as we faced drought, bushfires and a global pandemic. Our
There are few cases which is great news. Green Bikes
What do you think we could be doing
Despite coming from community faced every challenge with strength and resilience and
better?
a family of riders and
learning how to fix for that reason I couldn’t be prouder of the Myall Lakes community.
We have a really nice, beautiful town and bikes at a young age, I
I don’t know how we can improve it. recently found myself
With Covid, we should be good if we with a problem no one We’ve all well and truly earned a break this holiday season so I
keep distancing ourselves. was able to solve. It took
the gentlemen from the hope you have been able to take time to come together with your
What do you hope to get up to in the
future?
Green Bikes Community
Workshop only ten
friends and family to celebrate the year’s ups and downs.
Work wise, I’m not too sure. I’m working minutes and my bike was
and saving at the moment and would like
to do a lot of travelling. I hope to go to
fixed and back on the road
again! On top of that they Myself and Sue wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a
gave me brilliant advice for
NZ in the next year when it opens. Last
year I went to Vietnam. It was amazing my bike. Happy New Year.
and I loved it. I loved the street food. For this I want to say
It gives you a good perspective of how ‘THANK YOU’ and to let
Name: Kyle De Gioia others live. It shows you how lucky we them know that their
are to live here. After travelling I would like to work is making a huge
Currently: Working at BWS. think about what career to move into next. difference to my family.
Favourite things to do in your spare time: “Kyle used to come in the truck and help me I can once again join in
I enjoy gaming, cooking and travelling. I like clean up any vandalism. He is one of the nicest with our loved bike rides
to play ‘Call of Duty’ and make desserts like kids you’ll ever meet and from a great family,” with friends and I can use
carrot cake. said Ted Bickford. bikes as a way of transport
again. I am very grateful
that we are having a place
If you are 21 years or under and would like to feature in like this and I cannot
recommend enough going
Young Local please submit a high resolution photo and answers to there.
www.theforstertuncurry.com.au Steffi Kornelsen-Tickle
Authorised by Stephen Bromhead MP, 1-9 Manning St, Tuncurry NSW 2428
funded using parliamentary entitlements.
Submissions are published when space permits. Forster
THE FORSTER TUNCURRY 23rd December 2020 THE FORSTER TUNCURRY 23rd December 2020
Community News Page 8 Community News Page 9
L o c a l a r t i st s ’ f i rst i m p re s s i o n s o f
Ya l a wa ny i G a nya
Forster parkrun is
back!!! Out and About
Forster Tuncurry Little Athletics facebook.com/forstertuncurrylittleathletics
It was a special moment for
local artists Brittany Cochrane
and Raechel Saunders
when they were given an
exclusive first-look at how
their artwork has been used
throughout the Yalawanyi
Ganya building.
MidCoast Council selected Raechel’s
and Brittany’s work from a number
of submissions from local Aboriginal
artists, to be incorporated into the
building design of the administration
and customer service centre on Biripi
Way, Taree.
Graphic elements drawn from both building.” Above: Raechel Saunders with her artwork ‘Connected’.
of the artists’ works are used within
Seeing their known as Yalawanyi Ganya, meaning
the building in a number of ways,
works for the first time was exciting ‘meeting/sitting place’. Saturday mornings are about to become fun
including: glazing graphics on glass
for Brittany and Raechel with both and active again with the return of the much-
meeting room walls, designs on The name reflects the activities that
women expressing their pride in loved Forster parkrun on Saturday the 2nd of
noticeboards and glazing decals on will be undertaken in the building. As
seeing how the project had come January. Event Directors Chris Newell and Chris
some entry doors. well as housing Council’s customer
together and the prominence of the Woodhouse and the 7 Run Directors are happy
Brittany's work Living As One art. service centre and Council Chambers,
there will also be a public café and a to announce that everyone will be back ready
on Biripi Country, and Raechel's “I’m just really proud,” said Raechel. to welcome runners and walkers to this regular
Connected both tell a story of gallery space.
“To see it used so prominently in the free community 5km event.
connection to culture and the land building, I love it.” The work of Raechel and Brittany will
on which the MidCoast community feature in the first exhibition to be “We want you back, but make sure you
resides. MidCoast Council’s General Brittany’s piece provided the are healthy and ready to go,” said Chris
held in the gallery space, along with
Manager, Adrian Panuccio said they incredible Yalawanyi Ganya logo that Woodhouse. “Look after the volunteers, have
that of other Aboriginal artists in
have been the perfect addition to the is featured on the outside of the fun running or walking, and be responsible for
recognition of the importance of the
space. building and she said she is excited yourselves.”
site to local indigenous culture.
and happy with the end result.
“We saw our new administration and The customer service centre in Participants are reminded to make sure they
customer service centre as a great “You can see it as you drive down the Yalawanyi Ganya will open to the are registered with parkrun Australia and bring
opportunity to really showcase and road, it’s so big and such a great, eye community on 7 January, 2021. their printed barcode. It is also best to have
honour our local Aboriginal culture,” catching feature, I’ve had heaps of the Service NSW QR app downloaded on your
Mr Panuccio said. people comment on it. I’m so proud Right: Local artists Brittany phone as this is a Covid-safe event. This event
of it and I love how it’s been used.” Cochrane and Raechel Saunders starts at 8am at the Pebbly Beach Playground
“The way it has all come together outside the new Yalawanyi off Head Street. Newcomers are encouraged to
though, is even better than I could Council also worked with local
Gathang language holders on the Ganya administration and be there for the 7:45am race briefing.
have imagined, it’s a really beautiful service centre for MidCoast
and important element of the naming of the building, which will be Mary Yule
Council, on Biripi Way Taree.
We encourage you to Advertise with us “What’s in a Name?”
WE’RE
STAY UPDATED support our local
advertisers who help
Support the newspaper We have been
HIRING make this paper FREE that supports the town! asked on numerous
occasions how ‘The
to pick up and read Enquiries: 0413410492 Tanks’ area got its
each fortnight. info@theforstertuncurry.com.au
name. Well, did
you know that ‘The
If you’re looking to make a Tanks’ were named
after a collection
difference in our community... of steel ship tanks
we’re looking for you. Free workshop for MidCoast which were on a
10 feet (3 metres)
creative businesses high wooden stand.
They were 4 feet
(1.2 metres) square
people and arts organisations develop business and held approx.
skills. The two day workshop will cover the 400 gallons (1820
basics of business, as well as take a deeper litres) of water. A
dive into entrepreneurship, financial literacy, windmill situated
marketing, and overcoming the challenges of beside the tanks Above: This rare picture of the tanks area, shows the rail and crane.
sustaining and growing a creative business. drove the lift pump On the right are staff with mill, slab workshop and tanks.
which pumped the
“It is a real coup to bring The ‘Creative Plus water up into the tanks from a nearby well.
Team’ to the MidCoast region to support our
local creative businesses. The coaching will The water from the tanks was used for the
improve the base knowledge and capacity of steam engines which ran on the steam
local business operators to undertake this type operated railway. The 2.4 km railway was built
of planning independently and will support the in 1898 by Richard Hungerford who quarried
work Council and the local business chambers rock from the northern side of Bennett’s
currently undertake,” said Robyn Brennan, Head. The rock was used to build the Forster
Local artists Ali Haigh and Jade Stanley. Council’s Coordinator of Economic Growth. Breakwall. The railway ran from Bennett’s
Head along the foreshore in front of the
If you are an advertising or marketing “It will cover a range of great planning tools and present Forster Public School through the area
business, architect, graphic designer, ideas to support your business whether you are known as “The Tanks”, behind Pilot Hill to the
visual or performance artist or an arts established or just starting up.” breakwall.
society or group, you’re invited to ”The Tanks” is now known as a popular
register for a free workshop in 2021. The two-day workshop will take place at the swimming area situated at Pebbly Beach,
A diverse range of exciting positions Manning Entertainment Centre in Taree on Forster.
The workshop is led by creative practitioners
are available right now. with extensive business skills and aims to assist
Monday 22 February and Monday 8 March
from 9.30am until 4.30pm. Bookings are If you would like to know more about the
local creative businesses in developing business
essential and can be made via the online form history of the area, please call into the Museum
Find out more and apply: plans to ‘futureproof’ their operation, thanks
at midcoast.nsw.gov.au/workshop. in Capel Street, Tuncurry. Maybe you would
to MidCoast Council and NSW Government
midcoast.nsw.gov.au/careers funding. This workshop is proudly funded by the NSW like to become a volunteer at the Museum, you
Government Bushfire Community Resilience would be made most welcome.
The workshop will be facilitated by ‘Creative
and Economic Recovery Fund, and supported Ruth Stocker Volunteer/Research Officer
Plus Business’ founded by Monica Davidson, a
Part of your every day social enterprise dedicated to helping creative
by MidCoast Council. www.facebook.com/GreatLakesMuseum/
THE FORSTER TUNCURRY 23rd December 2020 THE FORSTER TUNCURRY 23rd December 2020
Community News Page 10 Community News Page 11
Local Church Services Weekly Diary Local Calendar
Forster Tuncurry Forster-Tuncurry Mondays December
Uniting Church Catholic Parish
Green Bikes Community Workshop Sun 27th Dec - Pacific Palms Market
The current Mass times at Open 9 - 12pm. Supplying parts & free help 9am - 1pm Pacific Palms Community Centre
Christmas Eve: 5.00 pm 'The
the Holy Name Church are: with bike problems. Budding mechanics
Green Cathedral' Bookings Last Sunday of the month
Saturday - 5:00pm welcome. Tuncurry transfer station.
essential (ring church office Enquiries: Jennifer Doyle 0401968516
Sunday - 8:00am, 10:00am, 0458809975
6555 8573)
12 noon Sun 27th Dec - Pacific Palms Self Drive
Christmas Day: 9.00 am Forster Church
Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions Mass Wednesdays Arts Trail Start Pacific Palms Markets
Sunday 27th December: 9.00 am Forster attendance is by registration only. To register, from 9am near The Recky. Check times at
The Forster Tuncurry Community Kitchen pacificpalmsartsinc.org.au
Church phone 6554 6401 or email forster-tuncurry. 12 -1pm, 33 Lake Street Forster.
Please check out our web pages: forster.uca. parish@mn.catholic.org.au. To watch the 8 am Provides a meal in a social & safe place.
Sunday Mass live stream please send us your Dec to 31st Jan - Art Sale
org.au tuncurry.uca.org.au; our facebook Volunteers and donations welcome.
page: Uniting Church In Australia Pacific Palms email address to receive the link. The Lake St Gallery
6539 5900 or sabdoo@catholiccare.org.au
/ Forster Tuncurry or give Pastor Geoff a call on Friday, Saturday & Sundays
Christmas message
The Holy Name Church is open from 9 am- 3
Christmas is presence 65558573.
pm Mon- Fri for private prayer.
www.forstertuncurrycatholic.org.au
Green Bikes Community Workshop
Open 12 - 3pm. Supplying parts & free help
January
I notice that at the end of each year lists are Christ walked this earth, his presence is very with bike problems. Budding mechanics
compiled of the words most used or trended much with us still today and for millions of Christmas is all about presence. Not the type and people. This peace involved God himself welcome. Tuncurry transfer station.
over the previous twelve months. I’d suggest people such a connection is a vital and integral you wrap up and eye greedily under the coming and being present among humans; Forster Tuncurry 0458809975 Sat 2nd Jan - Tuncurry Market
8 -1pm John Wright Park
that “#we’re all in this together” would be part of how they live each day. tree, but the type that gets groups of people
together to just be with one another. I have
Jesus, born as a tiny baby. God reached out
over the gap and made himself present among
Presbyterian Church Great Lakes Breast Cancer Support Group Bookings essential
a certainty for winner of the ‘most popular
phrase’ category.
During COVID we did, and continue, to make
sacrifices in how we live our lives because
treasured memories of spending time around sinners and broken people, so they could Coast Evangelical Church We meet at 16 Bruce
Street, Forster (next door
First Wednesday of every month. Enquiries: Anne 0417400994
the dinner table with my extended family, be at peace with him. The Bible calls Jesus 4pm Tuncurry Beach Bowling Club/membership
As we approach Christmas, I am reminded we love and care for our fellow community We currently meet on Sundays at 4pm (with to Evermore) at 9.30am Sun 3rd Jan - Blackhead Bazaar Market
tucking into far too much food than was good ‘Emmanuel’, meaning ‘God With Us’. He is God, each Sunday, utilising both Email: facilitator@breastfriends.org.au
that this phrase is not only as relevant for this members. Kids Church) and 6pm at Forster Public School 8am 1pm Wylie Breckenridge Park
for me. At the time it never occurred to me that Present. Hall. the Church & Hall space.
upcoming celebration as it has been for the
pandemic, but that it would be a worthy catch
At Christmas we celebrate and give thanks
that God gave us Jesus, not only as a baby
there might be a day when I wasn’t allowed to
be present, so I never appreciated it fully.
So remind yourself as you enjoy the privilege We also run SALT (years 3-6) on Friday
Registering at the Church
entrance on arrival is
Thursdays www.hallidayspointinfo.com
phrase to describe God’s relationship with us of gathering together this Christmas - you now afternoons and RIPTIDE (years 7-12) on Friday essential. Sun 3rd Jan- Lions Club Car Boot Sale
but also as a way back to understanding and Zoom, Messenger, and Hangouts have been The Forster Tuncurry Community Kitchen
over the past thousands of years. have permission to say that Christmas is all nights. 8am - 12pm Hallidays Point Shopping Village
having a relationship with him, because He useful, but they don’t foster presence. The pixel Children are very welcome 12-1pm, 33 Lake Street Forster.
about ‘presence’. Whether you gather with 1st Sunday of the month
“We’re all in this together” is God saying to loves and cares for us. Because of this, we can representations of loved ones on the screen More information plus videos of services can be but due to Covid 19 restrictions & lack of Provides a meal in a social & safe place.
family, friends, or with a much smaller circle, Bookings: Alan Stewart 0488160126
us that he is not a God resigned to Sunday journey through life with the greatest source found on our website: www.coastec.net.au available separate space our Sunday School / Volunteers and donations welcome.
pale in comparison to real, physically present remember Jesus Christ, God present in the creche is on hold. BUT activity sheets will be
School stories or old dusty religious books, of wisdom, love, mercy and grace and comfort; people. In fact, I found they make us long even 6539 5900 or sabdoo@catholiccare.org.au
flesh, come to bring us peace through his cross. Due to COVID regulations please register via available for children to do during the service Sun 10th Jan - Forster Town Market
but someone who wants to be with us as we together. more for the time when we can get together!
go through all the ups and downs, messiness Vaughan Smith the website. with their parents/guardians supervision. 8 -2pm Forster Town Park
As we continue to see and hear ‘ #we’re Coomba Mens Shed
and joys, uncertainties and excitement that life The Bible teaches us that the events we Additional Information & sermons are available Open every Thursday 8.30am- 12pm. Enquiries: 0437634056
all in this together’ let us remember God’s Pastor of Taree Presbyterian Church
brings with it. celebrate at Christmas are all about presence, on our church website www.ftpc.org 86 Moorooba Rd Coomba Park.
offer, celebrated as a baby, but lived out as a too. The message of the angels, as they sang Interim Moderator, Forster-Tuncurry Sat 16th Jan - Super Garage Sale
The connection with Christmas is that here relationship. All men welcome to come along & participate.
out in the sky, highlights this: “Glory to God in Presbyterian Church GL Palliative Care
we see and celebrate God offering “I want to Have a happy, holy and safe Christmas the highest, and on earth peace among those 8-2pm 32 Manning St Tuncurry
be with you so much that I am sending you Codependents Anonymous
Pastor Geoff Battle with whom he is pleased” (Luke 2:14 NIV). Please note - Christmas Day Service is at 9am Opposite John Wright Park
my own son to be part of your lives.” This Difficulty maintaining relationships?
They were singing about peace coming to
5.30 - 7pm Uniting Church, Tuncurry.
connection carries on past the 33 years that Forster / Tuncurry Uniting Church people from God; a peace made between God Forster /Tuncurry Phone: 0412 386179 Sat 16th Jan - Forster Farmers Market
Anglican Church 8am - 12pm Forster Info Centre Little St
Star Pet
We are meeting for services at 6 St Alban’s Forster Tuncurry Seventh Saturdays 3rd Saturday of the month
Enquiries: Linda 0421347273
Place Forster on Sundays at 8am (Traditional Day Adventist Codependents Anonymous
Communion), 10.00am (Families plus creche We are open again, having been on zoom for Sun 17th - Forster Tri Club Triathlon
– NOTE NEW TIME); 5.30pm (Informal many weeks. We have a bible discussion group Difficulty maintaining relationships? Arrive 7.30am for 8am start, different distances
Communion) and on Thursdays at 9.30am at 10 am that continues into the service at 5 - 6.30pm Uniting Church, Tuncurry. Elizabeth Reserve Forster Keys
(Traditional Communion). 11am on a Saturday. We usually have a lunch af- www.codependentsanonymous.org.au www.forstertriclub.com.au
Our Toddler Time Group is on Monday terwards - but due to COVID19 we have had to
Forster parkrun 9th - 17th Jan Rotary Book Fair
mornings at 9.30am with pre-registration suspend these. We are at 29 North St Tuncurry.
Pebbly Beach Playground off Head St 9-4pm Tuncurry Memorial Hall
required on 5543-7683. 7:45am for 8am start Lower MidCoast Rotary
You can find us on Facebook and at: Forster.
We also operate the Op Shop off the car park adventist.org.au. Pr Graham Stewart phone is Register with parkrun Aust & bring barcode Enquiries: 412653061
on Head St Forster, open Mon - Fri 9am to 4pm. 0447 444 424. facebook.com/Forsterparkrun/
Sat 23rd Jan - Tuncurry Market
The Christian Bookshop at 6 St Alban’s Place
serves all the churches in the area and is open 8 -1pm John Wright Park
Mon, Wed and Fri, 9am - noon. Bookings essential
We encourage you to Enquiries: Anne 0417400994
Building and supporting websites in Our services can be viewed at: forsteranglican.
com support our local adver- Sat 23rd Jan - Super Garage Sale
tisers who help make this GL Palliative Care
Forster Tuncurry for 20 years paper FREE to pick up 8-2pm 32 Manning St Tuncurry
Opposite John Wright Park
and read each fortnight.
1300 766 713
Sun 24th Jan - Forster Tri Club Triathlon
Arrive 7.30am for 8am start, different distances
Elizabeth Reserve Forster Keys
www.forstertriclub.com.au
Website design for mobile
*BINS FROM $300*
Frid 29th Jan - Forster Tri Club Aquathon
Arrive at 5.45pm for 6pm start
and SEO Forster Main Beach Ocean Bath (Bullring)
www.forstertriclub.com.au
Website maintenance Hallidays Point NSW 2430 Christmas Eve
5pm Carols on the Lawn -
Advertise with us
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High speed hosting BYO food and drink.
ABN 31 064 160 372
11pm Communion
Domain name management Support the newspaper
Name: Sydney Likes: Swimming, body surfing, cuddles and Christmas Day
Age: 8 years old treats.
Excellent local support that supports the town!
Dislikes: Torrential weather that could
9am All-age Communion
Claim to fame: Featured in a Purina
cancel any chance of going swimming and
advertisement. PHONE 55437683
body surfing. Enquiries: 0413410492
Delivery, Pick Up, Rubbish Disposal
St Alban’s Place Forster
If you would like to see your beloved pet featured in Star Pet www.forsteranglican.com info@theforstertuncurry.com.au
please submit a high resolution photo and answers to
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Submissions are published when space permits.
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THE FORSTER TUNCURRY 23rd December 2020 THE FORSTER TUNCURRY 23rd December 2020
Community News Page 12 Community News Page 13
Local Legend -Donna Rankin (Muma Jack!) Your Travel s -
Continued from page 11.
capture evidence and data about the
program. State PCYC are very excited
Mount Kosciuszko
about the H2H program and can see
the merits in spreading its benefits
"Through losing Shannon I have been taken on a journey to embrace other peoples' suffering to be able to make a difference in the world," Donna says. across the state. Stay tuned.....
H2H is also supported by the Samual
“She has magical powers, fearlessly embracing others who are struggling, using her skill with a paint brush to spread the healing power of art.” Brett Nelson Foundation, who manage
the charitable arm of H2H.
I met Donna 30 years ago when across the bar. His name was David to hold art classes at Great Lakes "She made a huge “When you lose a child, the worst Name: Wayne Gooley
Wayne and I first arrived in and he certainly charmed her - the College in Forster and Tuncurry for positive impact that can happen to you has already
Forster from London. We made an rest is history. They married in 1986 young women showing signs of on my healing and When did you go? 1st - 10th Dec
happened," says Donna, "So really, I'm
immediate connection - Donna and and returned to Forster in their late disengagement. "It allows them to growth through not afraid of anything." She said her Where did you go? Mount Kosciuszko
David were warm and welcoming twenties to start their family. share how they are feeling. They sharing her story two other children - daughter Holly,
and invited us to the Hunter Valley realise they are not the only one in and inviting me into For his momentous 60th, Wayne Gooley
When we first met Donna, she was in also known as indie music star Jack
with their friends for the weekend. I school dealing with an issue," Donna her studio. Tanayah River, and son Reuben - ensured she dreamed of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro along
real estate, and she and David were
didn’t know if this was the Australian expanding their agency in Forster. says. became Donna’s remained strong. with any other fit adventurer who cared to join
warmth or the Donna and David assistant with her Donna with her family Holly, Reuben, David & Shannon. him.
Donna and David had three beautiful They meet for several hours each Besides Heart to Heart, Donna has
warmth – it was both. Donna children, Holly, Shannon and Reuben. week to learn how to recreate Heart to Heart Holly, 28, is the driving force behind Forster's
continues to wrap people in her endeavours and painted subjects including Tim Winton and Unfortunately COVID meant he had to think
In 2006 their world was turned a famous painting. "The young Schapelle Corby and been shortlisted multiple Grow Your Own festival, celebrating home- of an equally challenging, memorable and
warmth and take them on a journey upside down when Shannon, 11, people are immersed in a beautiful became a mentor grown culture, food and music.
with her. to young girls in times in prestigious art awards, including the wonderful alternative experience. So instead of
was swimming with her experience," says Donna. "As Doug Moran National Portrait Prize. Donna’s "After my sister passed away, our community
friend at a new holiday they are painting we see that our community hiking the highest mountain in Africa, and the
while helping them work has been hung in the Portia Geach five reached out to us in such a massive way, so highest free standing mountain in the world, he
apartment complex just their mind is settling and they times and The Blake, four times. She has we have this will to want to reach back out to
a few hundred metres forget about the really difficult through art therapy. relocated the adventure to the highest summit 5th was the hike to the
Tanayha, along with also been featured in the ABC documentary them," Holly says.
from home. Shannon things that are happening in their ‘Women’s Work ’- a series of short in mainland Australia – Mount Kosciuszko. top. Inclement weather
was an excellent life. It's mindfulness in action." Donna and the girls Donna said her children have been a huge had set in with gale
on the program documentaries featuring women who are doing inspiration to her along with her husband’s Wayne threw an invite out to his local friends
swimmer but when she Adult mentors and professional extraordinary things in their communities. force winds and near
duck-dived in the faulty support workers are also present, raised funds for support and family and friends. (many of them being our very own Turtles
an orphanage in Winter Swimmers) and friends and family from freezing temperatures.
pool spa, she never including mental health experts Donna’s latest endeavour was the completion I asked Donna what she loved about our
Vietnam and found of the amazing mural at Stockland, Forster. afar. Much to his surprise, 48 responders came Not to be deterred 30
surfaced. The day the and police youth liaison officers - area. She said it was its beauty and natural of the 48 braved the
Rankins lost Shannon unlikely friendships are formed and themselves helping Donna was one of four local artists (Lara Went, on board. We were taking Forster to Thredbo.
the orphans and surroundings, the genuine, kind and caring elements and marched
was the day they turned unexpected support is received. Nicole Bramble and Shannon Cress) awarded community. “Loosing Shannon made me realise
healing themselves the contract and collaborated their many As people started arriving a couple of days or staggered to the very
their back on their Discussion, journaling, meditation the true beauty of the people.”
real estate careers and and music are encouraged in the process. talents and experiences to create and complete before the hike – the excitement built and the top. It was a wonderful achievement to witness
sold their business throughout the eight-week program. Tanayah says their design. Donna said that the 83m long Donna’s advice to others: “I often say, ‘Hang in birthday celebrations got underway. Saturday 30 Forster folk huddled
and retreated. "To be Donna provides an amazing space that meeting and mural depicted, “The unique landscape of there.’ This is because I know from my own life together at Australia’s
honest, I spent the first for these young people to feel safe, working with The popularity of H2H encouraged Forster and the freedom of our youth growing experience, losing a child is the most painful summit – a true sign of
year in bed crying," cared for and not judged by anyone. Donna “flipped my perspective. That Donna to roll out a training up here.” thing a parent or human will ever endure..... camaraderie.
Donna said. connection with her and with art programme - training artists and but I have hung in there, my pain never leaves,
Donna with her mother (on left) in Tuncurry. Early March 2021, Donna has been chosen I have learnt to navigate it, to push through, to
transformed everything.” Tanayah facilitators to conduct the workshops to be the official International Women’s Day The celebrations continued
Donna didn't cook for keep moving forward. Because I have ‘hung in through the night and
Donna is a true local legend! She was a year after losing Shannon. But says about the girls on the program, in primary schools as well as high speaker for the Hunter Women's Business
born 28th May 1964 in Taree hospital every day a meal would be left “If these girls are feeling braver and schools. 2020 saw the first H2H there’ I have learned to see beauty and enjoy throughout the weekend.
Network. She will focus on the growing success life again.”
and quickly transferred to Forster at her family's door. The Forster more confident and happier within programme in Primary schools at of her social program Heart To Heart. Being an adventurous
Cape Hawke Hospital. Donna is the community's generous spirit helped themselves, that's going to have Holy Name in Forster and Smithtown Donna’s favourite saying is: ‘Blessed are the group, activities also
eldest of four children to Molly and this butterfly effect for the whole Public School in Kempsey. Many Creativity runs in the Rankin family and Donna's weird people, misfits writers, heretics, painters
her to turn her grief around, and now drive to give back is shared by her husband included golf, cycling,
Don Richardson. Donna attended Donna has become a life force in the community.” children attending the workshops, and troubadours – for they teach us to see the swimming (one brave friend
Forster Primary School, then St who have faced their own personal David, daughter Holly and son Reuben. world through different eyes.”
coastal town, 300 kilometres north With her training program available swam in Lake Jindabyne!)
Clare’s High School (years 7-10) and of Sydney. to interested schools, Donna challenges, have benefited Reuben, 21, is a gifted pianist and singer
completed her education at Taree enormously from the program I don’t think I’m any of the above but I do and exploring more
launched a Go Fund Me page for songwriter, studying aerospace engineering and consider myself blessed to know Donna and
High. She said that creating Art Donna found solace in painting, a and Donna is proud of the positive following his dream to become an astronaut. beautiful walking tracks.
childhood talent she had suppressed the Heart to Heart Art Box. These have had her in my life for over 30 years.
and helping people was always her boxes are filled with art supplies and feedback from the principal, teachers Holly, aka Jack River, is a rising indie pop star. A truly memorable birthday
passion – most definitely not sport! after failing art in HSC. Art was my and parents. The programme is also When she's not touring or releasing albums, Vanda Gooley
saviour after Shannon's death," says mindfulness ideas. These amazing weekend.
Donna left Forster at 18 for boxes has been given to children running in Linuwel School – a Steiner
Donna. " It was a relief to take what school in Morpeth through trained
was in my brain and heart and put it in areas affected by drought and
bushfires. artists and facilitators. Tuncurry High
into a picture. It brought me joy and With Senior Constable Karen school has two H2H programmes
it brought me back to life." Donna Hosking. Donna said, "My dream is to see the scheduled for 2021 funded by PCYC.
said that losing a child could have program rolled out across Australia,
seen her choose a more destructive Senior Constable Karen Hosking, the reaching as many youth as possible,
path, such is the grief she has faced. Youth Case Manager at Taree PCYC, because we have proven in our area
says she has changed her attitude that it works. I always thought, 'What
Through her art, Donna's charity, to policing because of Donna's
Heart to Heart, was born. Her friend, would Shannon do? I always think
influence. "She has shown me she is around me, I always think 'Step
social worker Kylie Honor, (who that love and acceptance of young
sadly recently passed away) had up, Donna, be the person she would
people, nurturing and promoting want you to be.'" Quietly proud of
been working with young people their feelings of self-worth and
who were struggling and "in need of her program, Donna says Shannon "is
self-confidence, inspiring them to be with me every step of the way."
nurturing". Kylie saw the potential for who they want to be, not necessarily
Donna to devise a school-based art who we want them to be, is more For the last few years, Donna has
program to help them in the same powerful than any other youth crime been building a Heart to Heart "how
way that painting had helped her. prevention I've been involved with." to" manual. "It has always been
Founded in 2008, Heart to Heart is my vision for artists in other towns
Psychologist Tanayah Tooze, 26, across Australia to be able to run
an eight-week arts program run in understands Donna's "magical
high schools for "at risk" youth. [It this program," she says. Her friend With Psychologist Tanayah Tooze.
powers" after being incredibly ill as a Kylie said that Donna’s fearlessness
will soon run for the first time in a teenager. "I was in a really dark place.
Donna’s Debut aged 16 years. Forster primary school.] Run by a was the vital ingredient for success. Watch this space for an exciting
I had never met Donna and somehow "Donna has so many connections
youth mental health worker, master she heard that I was unwell. She sent chapter of the H2H story is unfolding.
artist and facilitator, it combines that it confounds you and she's so NSW PCYC has been collaborating
Newcastle and worked for The the most beautiful, heartfelt letter brazen at times. She'll go up and talk
painting and conversation to help and an art package, and offered me with Donna for the past 12 months to
Greater Building Society. It was The to strangers, so she can make things
kids learn mindfulness techniques art lessons for when I came home
Welcome to Yoga Mantra & Wellness Centre
New York Tavern where a handsome happen like magic.”
local spotted her and gave her a wink to better cope. Donna gives her time from hospital," says Tanayah. Continued top of next page.
Forster’s NEW Yoga Studio
KANGAROO ISLAND TOUR Yoga Mantra & Wellness Centre is a welcoming space to
connect with like minded people looking to improve their
dance, drum meditation and Drum courses with Chris Baker,
Sacred Journey with Restorative Yoga – Mediation and Sound
mental and physical health, through breath & movement. Healing with Bernie and Maureen to find that “Bliss”.
13 to 22 APRIL 2021 The centre has over 9 beautiful experienced and dedicated Beginners Yoga courses, 4 weeks in duration allowing you to
teachers who love to share their passion for Yoga and Wellness
Join us on this all-inclusive, fully guided adventure of to everyone. We offer memberships or casual class passes for
help with the basic understanding of Yoga and its fundamentals.
We are super excited to announce that we are hosting our 1st
Kangaroo Island (designed for all abilities) $3900 a wide range of yoga styles for all ages and abilities. Offering Yoga Teacher Training, “ total immersion” in 2021!
alignment based Hatha Yoga, Yin Yoga, Restorative Yoga,
10 DAY We invite you to join us and experience for yourself our
A sanctuary for wildlife and natural rugged beauty. PACKAGE
Vinyasa, a weekly dedicated Prenatal class and assisted Chair
Yoga for our ‘mature and wiser’ senior members. amazing Studio, located at 1 Trades Court on Kularoo Drive,
Forster. The large Yoga space offers a tranquil setting amongst
INCLUDES: As a special offering, there is a weekly, Monday night Sound an abundance of greenery of plants under and around a high
Healing Journey class, using a wide range of sacred instruments decorative ceiling that is very impressive. Along with lovely,
Airport Transfers, Flights, Accommodation, Meals & Tours to totally relax your mind, body & spirit. carpeted flooring and two reverse cycle air conditioners for
(contact Travelwise for the full itinerary) Yoga Mantra and Wellness Centre also has 2 beautiful relaxation
massage rooms and a state of the art infrared Sauna. The
total comfort and to truly immerse yourself into the yoga
experience.
sauna is set amongst an ‘indo’ inspired outside/inside open-air We welcome everyone with open arms, 7 days per week!
shower space that feels like you are on an overseas holiday.
Call now on 0428 725352
Visit the website, ‘like’ the face book or Instagram page as there www.yogamantra.com.au
BOOK YOUR ADVENTURE TODAY W W W . T R A V E L W I S E . N E T . A U C A L L 0 4 1 1 5 6 8 0 2 2 are regular ‘special events’ and ‘workshops’ including monthly, Email: info@yogamantra.com.au
master class with Christine du Fresne, Drumming events; Drum Book classes through the Mindbody App.
PICK-UP & DROP-OFF HARRINGTON, TAREE, TALLWOODS, TUNCURRY, FORSTER & PACIFIC PALMS
YM_Flyer_Holiday Yoga Pass_DL.indd 1 24/11/20 4:33 pm
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