www.thesentinelnews.com.au CLOSING DATE FOR NEWS & ADS IN OUR NEXT ISSUE IS 10TH APRIL 3 Community & Events 3 What’s On 4 Clarence Town Community Builders & Community of Gardens Initiative 5 From the Lion’s Den 6 Shelf Life: Book Recommendations 9 Clarence Town Tennis Club 10 Rural Fire Service 12 Clarence Town First Responders 13 Council Insights 14 Business & Services 14 Dungog District Chamber of Commerce 17 Phillica IT Tips 18 Parson’s Pen & Our Churches 21 Op Shop & Treasure Centre 21 Clarence Town School 22 Glen William School 24 Contact Directory In this Issue CLARENCE TOWN • GLEN OAK • GLEN MARTIN • GLEN WILLIAM • LIMEBURNERS CREEK • WALLAROBBA • BROOKFIELD MARCH / APRIL 2026 CIRCULATION 1400 Rainfall Report* (mls) 2026 Jan 99.6 2025 Dec 67.6 Nov 21.2 Oct 23.8 Sept 47 Aug 118.4 July 71 June 22.6 May 406.6 April 205.6 * Source: BOM, Clarence Town Rainfall Station 061010 Our War On Waste - Let’s Talk Trash It’s not the most glamorous frontpage topic, but when you look at the numbers, it’s certainly the heaviest. Last year, our Shire delivered 9,600 tonnes of waste to the landfill. To put that in perspective, 9,600 tonnes is roughly equivalent to 1.3 Eiffel Towers. That is a massive amount of “stuff” sitting in our local backyard. Why does this matter to your wallet? Aside from the environmental impact, there is a literal cost to our “throwaway” culture. Last year alone, we paid the NSW Government a staggering $504,694 in waste levies. That is over half a million dollars leaving our community just for the privilege of putting things in the ground. Because our waste operations are cost-neutral—meaning the Council doesn’t make a profit—those costs are shared directly by us, the ratepayers. It’s not all doom and gloom! We successfully diverted 820 tonnes from landfill last year through scrap metal and e-waste recycling. Plus, there are two big changes on the horizon to make our lives easier: FOGO is coming: By 2027, a third bin for food and garden waste will arrive, potentially extending our landfill’s life by 8 years. The “Lid” Legend: You can finally stop agonising over plastic bottle tops! You can now leave them on the bottle when you toss them in the yellow bin. The facility at Tuncurry has some clever new tech that flattens, flakes, and separates them automatically. As you read through Councillor Steve Low’s report on page 13, keep that half-milliondollar levy in mind. Every bit of recycling we get right is money that stays in the Shire rather than going to the state government. THINK new roads! - Cathy Schneider
22 Grey Street, Clarence Town Ph: 4996 4555 Let’s grow! Growing season is upon us! Feed, mulch & have fun! WWW.THESENTINELNEWS.COM.AU
COMMUNITY & EVENTS PAGE 3 Welcome to the heart of Clarence Town! Discover local happenings, events and opportunities. To list your local event for free, email thesentinel2321@gmail.com SATURDAY 5:30am sharp: Clarence Town ANZAC DAY Dawn Service. March departs Bowling Club to the Cenotaph on the cnr. of Grey and Queen Streets. All welcome. Join us for Maria’s Kitchen breakfast, Bowls and Two-Up at the Club following the service. For more see ad pg 5. THURSDAY 6.30pm: Clarence Town Progress Association meeting. NEW VENUE: CT Senior Citizens Centre. A massive thank you to the local businesses who advertise with us, funding The Sentinel. Please support them – without their help, we wouldn’t be here! Disclaimer: Articles submitted to this newsletter may be edited for clarity, length, accuracy, and style at the discretion of the editor. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the views and opinions expressed in submitted articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the newsletter team or affiliated organisations. Publication does not imply endorsement. MARCH APRIL SATURDAY 8am-12pm: Clarence Town Markets, at Clarence Town Bowling Club. Hosted by the Lion’s. THURSDAY Dungog District Chamber of Commerce’s Networking Dinner. See their website or FB site. GOOD FRIDAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY EASTER SUNDAY EASTER MONDAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY TUESDAY SCHOOL HOLIDAYS START for public schools MONDAY ANZAC DAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY FRIDAY SCHOOL HOLIDAYS FINISH for public schools SATURDAY 8am-12pm: Lion’s Club Car Boot SALE at Clarence Town Bowling Club. THURSDAY 6.30pm: Clarence Town Progress Association meeting. NEW VENUE: CT Senior Citizens Centre. FRIDAY 2pm: Kimberley Rock Art, A Decade with June Ross at the James Theatre Dungog. Hosted by the Country Women. $10 at door, no booking needed. More info: facebook.com/ CWADungogClarencetown What’s On
WWW.THESENTINELNEWS.COM.AU Clarence Town Community of Gardens Initiative Sow, Grow, and Gather Together Did you know that Clarence Town has its own community garden? Did you know Clarence Town has its own community garden? Established in October 2024, our garden is nestled between the Tennis Courts and the Senior Citizens Building. It is open to anyone in the community to plant, harvest, and weed in true collaborative style. Born from Rural Aid’s ‘Community Builders’ program, the project was initiated by Michael and Sacha Anderson, Trudy Balstad, and others, with generous support from the Seniors group. To date, we’ve hosted sunny planting days, community working bees, pick-your-own flowers, and even ‘microbial magic’ for Youth Week! By the time this goes to print, a summer working bee will have applied a thick layer of forest mulch to improve topsoil and make future weeding easier. Our major upcoming project is installing a rainwater tank to collect water from the Seniors building, making watering more efficient. This upgrade is possible thanks to a successful Hunter Water ‘Love Water’ grant! Our garden is open 24/7—please feel welcome to contribute or just call in the next time you are at the monthly markets. To join our mailing list, email ct.communityofgardens@gmail.com or find us on Facebook: Clarence Town Community of Gardens. Clarence Town Community Builders A Blueprint for Clarence Town Behind the scenes, the Community Builders Task Team worked hard to refine and finalise the Community Development Action Plan! In January, it was issued to Rural Aid for design and printing of 200 copies. Soon we will have these beautiful community documents in our hands! Stay tuned for our official launch party to celebrate this journey. Through extensive engagement, we have harnessed our community, ensuring this plan reflects the aspirations of those who live, work and play in Clarence Town. From our March 2025 workshop to ‘Big Idea’ cards and surveys, your input has formed the plan outlining our vision, challenges, and actions. Reaching this milestone makes us eligible for $10,000 in seed funding from Rural Aid! For success, we rely on the collaboration of individuals and organisations. The launch workshop will allow groups to take ownership of initiatives – including river festivals, art installations, village beautification, and playground upgrades. With many hands joined in purpose, we make exciting things happen! Contact us at ctowncommunitybuilders@hotmail.com Kind regards, Sacha Anderson & Trudy Balstad
COMMUNITY & EVENTS PAGE 5 Clarence Town Lions Club Report From the Lion’s Den The Clarence Town Lions Club Markets are held on the last Saturday of each month at the Clarence Town Bowling Club from 8am to 12pm. Our markets are a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together – whether you’re looking to browse local stalls, enjoy a chat with friends, support small businesses, or set up a stall of your own. We are always welcoming new stallholders, community groups and local creatives. Thinking about having a stall? Now is the perfect time to join us. The markets are friendly, relaxed and a great way to connect with others while supporting a good cause. Please note that there will be no market in April this year, as it falls on Anzac Day. Importantly, all funds raised from the markets go straight back into our community. For over 10 years, Clarence Town Lions have been planting crepe myrtle trees throughout the township. Completed in three stages — and continuing again this year — these trees have become a much-loved feature of Clarence Town. They are absolutely stunning at the moment in full bloom. Beyond the markets, Clarence Town Lions quietly support a wide range of local and national initiatives. From sponsorship of local schools and support for community groups, to assistance during times of hardship, Lions are committed to strengthening our town. The Club contributes to disaster relief efforts including flood and fire relief, and supports programs such as Lions Hearing Dogs and childhood cancer initiatives. Lions also play an active role in community events including Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, Christmas Carols at The Museum, and community BBQs. Whether it’s helping at events, planting trees, weeding the community garden, raising funds, or simply volunteering time, Lions are dedicated to giving back and helping ensure Clarence Town remains a welcoming and vibrant place to live. Looking ahead, Lions are planning a Barefoot Bowls Day (Friday 27th March), The Biggest Morning Tea on Friday 22nd May and are also exploring a possible event for International Men’s Day in November. When you support the Clarence Town Lions Markets, whether by attending, having a stall, or volunteering – you are helping make all of this possible. Lions Club meetings are held monthly at Clarence Town Bowling Club on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 6.00pm. Contact: Trudy Balstad – 0409 645 469. Follow us on Facebook: @Clarence Town Lions Club You are invited to attend the Clarence Town Dawn Service on ANZAC Morning. Please help us pay our respects to our Diggers. LEST WE FORGET. * Service wet weather venue: Bowling Club For more information contact Di Bennett OAM 0428 964 398 ANZAC DAY DAWN SERVICE CLARENCE TOWN 25/04/26, 5.30am sharp March leaves from the Bowling Club, Prince Street. ALL WELCOME Open the 2nd Sat of each month, 10am till lunch or by appointment 115 Prince St, Clarence Town 0491 346 491 CLARENCE TOWN & DISTRICT HISTORICAL MUSEUM
WWW.THESENTINELNEWS.COM.AU Book Recommendations Shelf Life Looking for your next page-turner? The Sentinel’s curated book recommendations make finding the perfect read a breeze – for adults and kids alike! Legacy by Chris Hammer Published September 2025 – Reviewed by Anne Higgins Chris Hammer has once again written an edge of your seat and thrilling read. A master of Australian crime fiction whose books are full of twists. Martin Scarsden appears again as a journalist in this 8th book of the series. This story is set in a remote, arid and isolated area. Martin is on the run. Two families who have been feuding for generations enter the plot along with links to early Australian explorers and the desolate nature of the setting where surprising events take place. Well drawn locals emerge; the pub and motel come alive. Will Martin survive all the threats? “Moo” by Alison Lester – Reviewed By Anne Fisher What sounds do farm animals make? “Moo” is part of a delightful series “Talk to the Animals” written and illustrated by Australian, Alison Lester. It is ideal for babies and toddlers learning about farm animals and language. They will respond to the rhyming text and the bright, colourful images as they are introduced to a variety of animals. “I see a big brown horse chewing on his hay. What do you say, big brown horse? Neigh, neigh, neigh”. This is an engaging, interactive book which focuses on the animal sounds and encourages the child to respond and repeat. Brought to you by “Books & More,” 232 Dowling St, Dungog. Explore our $5 book collection and support Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Contact Anne Higgins at 0403 029 181. 22 Robyn Keller Religious Marriage Celebrant 02 4996 4061 0400 033 873 robynak@aapt.net.au It is your wedding DRESSMAKER Specializing in Alterations DEBBIE 0448 999 625 Clarence Town PROMPT SERVICE Q debbiehammond24@dodo.com
COMMUNITY & EVENTS PAGE 7
WWW.THESENTINELNEWS.COM.AU Inspired By Design A Treasure Trove of - Curios - Fashion Homeware - Gifts - Haberdashery Chalk Paint - Pressed Tin Panels Open Thurs - Sat 10am-3pm or by arrangement inspiredbydesign.com.au inspiredbydesignaustralia inspiredbydesign.au 0429 694 506 146-150 Dowling Street, Dungog Begin your journey to a better life! Improve your Strength & Flexibility Nourish your Body, Mind & Spirit Thursdays 5pm in the Anglican Church Hall Please call Maggie 0467 325 034 YOGA Begin your journey to a better life! Improve your Strength & Flexibility Nourish your Body, Mind & Spirit Thursdays 5pm in the Anglican Church Hall Please call Maggie 0467 325 034 YOGA Expressions of Interest MID WEEK TENNIS Anyone interested in playing Mid-week tennis, which will begin in Term 2 (if enough interest) Could you please contact Kathryn Flannery with your preferred day 0477 940 165. Open Tuesdays from 9am and the last Saturday of every month 8am–12pm PLUS ENJOY MORNING TEA & AN AMAZING LUNCH Please join us to... MEET NEW PEOPLE GET CREATIVE WITH RELAXED CRAFTING PLAY CARDS SORT & SELL 2ND HAND CLOTHING CLARENCE TOWN SENIOR CITIZENS CENTRE 126 Prince St, Clarence Town For more details contact: Owen Giggins 0409 603 995 Going on Holidays? Can’t take your pet with you? Pet Accommodation Phone Sue on 4996 5528 Dogs and Cats - $15.00 per day Sorry—we are CLOSED GOOD FRIDAY and CHRISTMAS DAY Clarence Town Tennis Club Our AGM was held in June and the same members were returned to the committee positions. We have not run a night competition through Winter however we are preparing for the upcoming warmer weather and our Spring night competition. This will start when school term three commences and I am taking names now for anyone keen to have a game.. It is a social night competition so no sheep stations. Our Hot Shots has continued through winter with reduced numbers due to other sporting commitments and we look forward to seeing our young people back with us as those sports wind up for the year. sportsmanship was on display throughout the day. post-school pathways. See you on the court. Brad (0417 651 577), Gai (0419 600 219) Dannii Jeffery 0411 444 242 speedycycles.com.au Enjoy the Ride! 146 Dowling Street, Dungog Open: Thurs, Fri, Sat & Mon 10-4pm 0408 607 272 speedycyclesdungog
COMMUNITY & EVENTS PAGE 9 Clarence Town Bowling, Sport & Recreation Club Ph- (02) 49964222 Email - admin@clarrobowlo.com.au Socials - FB: Clarence Town Bowling Club IG- @clarencetownbowlingclub_ OPENING HOURS: Monday-Sunday - From 11am MONDAY- Bingo 11:30am start, $12 for 20 games & 2 jackpot sheets TUESDAY- Euchre 6:30pm Bingo! 6:30pm start, $12 for 20 games & 2 jackpot sheets WEDNESDAY- Happy Hour 4-6pm THURSDAY- Bingo 11:30am start, $12 for 20 games & 2 jackpot sheets Happy Hour - 4-6pm FRIDAY - Meat & Voucher Raffles, Members Draw & Live Music (tickets on sale at 6pm and drawn at 7pm) SATURDAY - Meat Raffles (tickets on sale at 2pm & drawn at 4pm) Happy Hour- 2-4pm LAST SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH - Meat & Voucher Raffles + Members Draw (tickets on sale at 5pm and drawn at 6pm) Maria’s Kitchen Opening Hours: Lunch: 12:00-2:00 Wednesday- Sunday Dinner: 5:30-8:00 Tuesday- Sunday COURTESY BUS RUNS EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY FROM 5PM! DONATIONS APPRECIATED, CALL THE CLUB AND FOLLOW THE PROMPTS TO BOOK A RIDE! Clarence Town Tennis Club Drop the Kids, Grab a Racket What a great summer of tennis in Australia and what a great use of our Courts over summer. Plenty of social tennis was being played. Our courts are looking good and the weather is still great to get out and have a hit with friends and family. The Summer Social Night Comp is up and running with 5 teams. Tremendous to have so many people playing with a few new players as well. Kids Hotshots has returned to Saturday mornings and we are seeing some nice numbers there and having some fun with the big and little kids. The tennis club is always keen to get as much use out of the courts as possible. We would like to see a mid-week social tennis get together happening. This is ideal for mums and dads looking to catch up after the school drop-off for an hour or two of exercise and social interaction at the club. We have no set day in mind but are open to suggestions. If you would be interested in this please call Kathryn on 0477 940 165. For general court hire please call or text Gai 0419 600 219 or Brad 0417 651 577. Going on Holidays? Can’t take your pet with you? Pet Accommodation Phone Sue on 4996 5528 Dogs and Cats - $15.00 per day Sorry—we are CLOSED GOOD FRIDAY and CHRISTMAS DAY Clarence Town Tennis Club Our AGM was held in June and the same members were returned to the committee positions. We have not run a night competition through Winter however we are preparing for the upcoming warmer weather and our Spring night competition. This will start when school term three commences and I am taking names now for anyone keen to have a game.. It is a social night competition so no sheep stations. Our Hot Shots has continued through winter with reduced numbers due to other sporting commitments and we look forward to seeing our young people back with us as those sports wind up for the year. postSee you on the court. Brad (0417 651 577), Gai (0419 600 219) Dannii Jeffery 0411 444 242
WWW.THESENTINELNEWS.COM.AU New South Wales Rural Fire Service AIDER Program Assistance for Infirm, Disabled and Elderly Residents : A one-off free service to reduce bush fire hazards. Do you know any Aged or disabled people in the community you may be concerned for because of the overgrown growth around their home? If yes, then read on. AIDER SERVICES MAY INCLUDE Thinning vegetation. Removing leaves, sticks and fallen branches. Trimming branches from around and overhanging the home. Mowing or slashing long grass. Cleaning gutters. What is AIDER? AIDER is a once off FREE service, supporting residents to live safely and confidently in areas where bush fires may start. The property must be bush fire prone, meaning an area of land that can support a bush fire or is likely to be subject of bush fire. Who is eligible? Aged residents and residents with disabling conditions who have limited domestic support from family, relatives, friends or other services. Are you prepared for a bush fire? Aged and disabled people in the community may be at higher risk during a bush fire. The NSW Rural Fire Service recommends that you have a Bush Fire Survival Plan. An assessment of your property will be completed by NSW Rural Fire Service staff. Advice will be given about completing your Bush Fire Survival Plan. All works are completed by Rural Fire Service teams. This is a Team within the RFS - NOT YOUR LOCAL Brigade. Email: aider@rfs.nsw.gov.au or Call: (02) 8741 4955 to request an assessment of your property. Your Bush Fire Survival Plan, Fire Danger Ratings, Bush Fire Alerts and Neighbourhood Safer Places can be found at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au Members of the public can now use their mobile phone or desktop computer to lodge their notifications about planned hazard reductions or burn offs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/ notify. It is preferred that you do it online. Scan the QR Code for easy access. You cannot light a fire without a permit. Permit season ends on the 31st of March but this could be extended. It is an offence to do so and penalties apply. In and out of Fire season you must notify the RFS and your Neighbours 24 hours before lighting your fire. Also keep in mind that Dungog Council has a Clean Air Policy so you might want to look that up: www.dungog.nsw.gov. au/live/open-burning-dungog-shire-council-area PREPARE, ACT, SURVIVE. Stay safe until next time, Di Bennett OAM Lower Hunter Zone Community Engagement Team New South Wales Rural Fire Service 94 John Street, Singleton NSW 2330 upperhunter@parliament.nsw.gov.au (02) 6543 1065 Authorised by Dave Layzell MP, 94 John Street, Singleton NSW 2330 Funded using Parliamentary entitlements. HOW I CAN HELP YOU Gloucester Dungog Singleton Muswellbrook Aberdeen Scone Broke Branxton Luskintyre Lorn Bolwarra Maitland Vale As your State MP I can make enquiries and representations on your behalf for matters involving NSW Government departments and agencies. Upper Hunter Electorate Office Dave Layzell MP MEMBER FOR UPPER HUNTER
COMMUNITY & EVENTS PAGE 11 The Tooth Whisperer Horse Dentist Brad Whalan EqDT www.thetoothwhisperer.com.au CLARENCE TOWN 0417 245 244 OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm Open SOME Saturday mornings 9am - 11.30am We cater for all your pet, farm, equine medical and surgical needs We provide comprehensive mobile and farm services for small and large animals, including consultations, vaccinations, routine surgery, ultrasound, x-ray, dental and pathology. Additionally, we offer a wide selection of quality pet foods, accessories, natural health products, and various parasite control products. Call 4996 4441 28 Grey Street, Clarence Town| Dr Jasmin Klocker BVSc & Assoc. 9 SOLICITOR W J Enright & Prentice Solicitors & Conveyancers 124 Dowling Street, Dungog. 2420 Phone: 4992 1730 Email: mail@felixprentice.com.au To get in touch our email is CTmuseum@outlook.com , Our phone number is 0491 346 491 , or you can reach us through Facebook. as an item of fashion, and the materials used, and the original owners if known. While this continued, there was a chance to have valuables appraised by an expert. Once again, Cotton Sax entertained us with his eclectic mix of songs and instrumental tracks. The local scouts provided a BBQ and there was coffee or fresh ice cream available. Young James provided tours as required and young Jack took photos of the event. Two weeks later, the Museum hosted morning Tea and BBQ lunch for the Dungog Rattlin’ Bones and Engine Groans Club AGM and Ordinary Meeting. The museum also received a $100 donation from this Club. Yours truly wore two suits from the 1970’s and by an interesting coincidence, one of our lovely Senior Citizens had known the owners of these suits, John Morris OAM, Foundation member of the Maitland Repertory Theatre, and Mr N Pyle, from when she was growing up in Rutherford! A gentleman from Queensland sent some information about his German descendants who arrived at Clarence Town in 1855. They are the Heinz family and the Krohmann family. Their connections here seem tenuous. They remained only a short time here, although owning a block of land in Marshall Street till 1910, before finding much success at Hill End in goldmining and very successful at real estate in Woollahra in Sydney. Chris O’Neill (Secretary) restoration until a new bridge can be built. In 2021, grant funding for Council to build a replacement bridge was approved by the Federal and NSW Governments, and by December 2022 the design was finalised and approved by Heritage NSW. However, an additional $4.86 million was required to construct this design. While the extra funding was being sought, the Federal Government imposed a freeze on all its infrastructure spending with every project under review including their commitment of $8.8 million. No decision is expected until late September at the earliest. Draft Dungog Waste Management Strategy and Action Plan 2023-2043 Council’s Draft Dungog Waste Management Strategy and Action Plan 2023-2043 was placed on public exhibition last month and it’s displayed on Council’s website. Over the next two decades, Dungog Shire's population, and consequently its waste output, is projected to surge by over 45%. But despite this potential increase, even a continuation of the present quantum of waste is a major concern that cannot be ignored. Sadly, local communities are forced to pay for disposing the multitude of packaging materials at the wrong end of the waste stream instead of placing this burden where the packaging is produced in the first place. There are several issues under consideration in the Draft Strategy: Firstly, there is commendable Commonwealth and State legislation intended to reduce the amount of waste and the most important target is to have a resource recovery rate of 80% by 2030. There will be mandates for increased use of recycled materials in packaging etc. and plastics that cannot be recycled are supposed to be banned by 2025. Council is charged $94 for every tonne of waste delivered to the landfill and this increases with the CPI. Secondly, extending the expected life of the landfill is a major consideration of the Strategy because remediating the site will be expensive as will be options for its replacement. The waste strategy considers several scenarios predicting the expected life of the landfill and in particular options for extending it. One option under consideration is the introduction of a kerbside collection service with a third bin for food and garden waste (FOGO). This offers the potential to reduce waste to landfill by up to 50% and the material would be converted to compost. A FOGO service could be introduced when the current waste collection contract is renewed in 2025. Waste charges are determined on a user pays system aiming to be revenue neutral, but Council will also have to begin collecting funds in order to close the landfill when it has reached maximum capacity limits (at least $10 million). Whatever options are selected, our annual waste charges will need to increase. Your Local B Ward Councilors: Jessica Clark: 0421 451 716 jessica.clark@dungog.nsw.gov.au Steve low: 02 4996 4022 stevelow49@tpg.com.au Sam Benson 0467 051 502 22 Get Spruced Local painter servicing all Maitland, Clarence Town and Dungog areas * Interior and exterior painting * Water pressure cleaning * Solar panel cleaning Phone Greg - 0404 682 759 Web: www.getspruced.com.au Robyn Keller Religious Marriage Celebrant 02 4996 4061 0400 033 873 robynak@aapt.net.au It is your wedding DRESSMAKER Specializing in Alterations DEBBIE 0448 999 625 Clarence Town PROMPT SERVICE Phone Bryce 0409 250 355 4938 5441 Email: t_giuffre@bigpond QUALITY SERVICES Driveways Dams Arenas House Sites Landscape Supplies D6 Dozer Posi 8 & 14 Ton Excavators Hammer Tipper Hire wisemansexcavation@gmail.com debbiehammond24@dodo.com 5 CLR Carpets . Lounges . Rugs Carpet Cleaning DOMESTIC COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL Vince Willemen 0499 424 070 vince@clrcarpetcleaning.com.au BRUCE FRAPPELL SERVICES ABN 16 600 975 859 Aerated Wastewater Treatment Tank Technician Servicing most makes and models CALL BRUCE ON: 0408 861 360 Over 15 years experience in the industry I offer a full comprehensive System Report, Check and Service with competitive rates. * HSC Performance Examination prep * 35 years piano teaching experience Ros 0414 391 747 347 Glen Martin Road, Glen Martin At Thomsen Automotive, we’re committed to reliable, personalised vehicle service you can trust. Book Now Mechanical Repairs Log Book Servicing Rego Inspections Air-Conditioning Mechanical Diagnostics Fully licenced & Insured MVRL: 61001 AU-64093
WWW.THESENTINELNEWS.COM.AU Domestic Services Your local in-home aged care provider for over 30 years Speak with our local team today: neighbourcare.org.au 4992 3348 Nursing & Allied Health Respite for Carers Social Groups Meals on Wheels Low Cost Transport Clarence Town First Responders (CFR) Team Updates & Respiratory Care A lot of our CFR members enjoyed a nice break over the Christmas and New Year period whilst we still maintain a presence in the town and responded to 000 calls. The team has retuned to scheduled ongoing training with Ambulance NSW to maintain our level of skills and knowledge. The great news is we have three wonderful new members who have joined us and are about to commence their initial training. We are looking forward to having them in our team. There has been quite a few fires over the past months and could still be some around the district and you may have noticed the smoke from these fires in our area. Often this smoke has travelled a long way to get to us. The smoke can be an issue for anyone with respiratory concerns. If you notice smoke in the area, try and stay inside with doors and windows closed to protect yourself from the affects of the bushfire smoke. Make sure you have your medications and asthma plans ready to use. Seek help if it gets too bad. Please give me a call to discuss – Brad Elroy, 0417 651 577.
COUNCIL INSIGHTS PAGE 13 Dungog Councillors Report Waste Reduction - Landfill and Recycling Far reaching changes are coming to all aspects of the waste stream. By 2030, Commonwealth and State legislation will require a reduction in total waste generated in Australia of 10% per person and a resource recovery rate of 80%. In order to address these issues, Dungog Shire developed the Waste Management Strategy and Action Plan 2023-2043 that is available on Council’s website, which also details what can be placed in the recycling bins and the services are available at the landfill. The strategy considers options for extending the expected life of the Dungog landfill, which is a major issue because remediating the site will be expensive as will options for replacing it in a drinking water catchment. The introduction of a third kerbside bin for food and garden waste (FOGO) would significantly reduce waste to landfill and the material would be converted to compost. FOGO could extend our landfill by up to 8 years, and it will become mandatory for all Councils anyway. So Council is investigating options to introduce it when the current kerbside waste collection contract expires in October 2027. Our team will be assessing what has worked and not worked in other Councils Last year, the total waste delivered to our landfill was 9,600 tonnes, of which kerbside & municipal waste totaled 3,080 tonnes. General mixed, construction & demolition materials and flood waste added 2,840 tonnes. About 3,6oo tonnes of soils were used to cover the putrescible domestic waste. We diverted 820 tonnes of waste from the landfill including 560 tonnes of scrap metal, 85 tonnes of various materials like batteries, oil, e waste, paper and soft plastics etc that were collected at the landfill. There was about 170 tonnes of green waste. The 4,258 yellow lid bins of the recycling service diverted 622 tonnes from our landfill. The NSW Government’s Waste Levy requires Council to account for waste added to the landfill. This levy was introduced to encourage waste reduction, and charges are expected to increase markedly by 2030. Last year, we paid the NSW Government a staggering $504,694 under the waste levy. Ratepayers share the cost of managing our waste operations and charges are essentially cost neutral as Council does not profit from them. We need increased efforts to reduce, reuse and recycle if we are to meet government targets and contain the cost of operating waste services. At the present time local communities have to deal with packaging at the wrong end of the waste stream and far too much goes into landfill at our expense. Strong government action is required in that regard. Problematic and unnecessary plastics were to be phased out by 2025 but this did not happen. We are told that “new legislation will require packaging to be reusable, readily recycled or compostable, and require a 50% content of recycled material in plastic packaging. Problematic and unnecessary plastics will be phased out. New laws will require packaging to be reusable, readily recycled or compostable, and require a 50% content of recycled material in plastic packaging”. We hope so. Plastic Bottle Tops The lids can now be left on plastic bottles when placed in the yellow recycling bins. The JR Richards Waste Recycling Facility at Tuncurry now crushes and bales them with the lids attached. They are sent to partner organizations where they are reduced to plastic flakes and separated in water tanks where lid-related flakes float and the bottle flakes sink. Your local B Ward Councillors: James Campbell 0484 599 709 james.campbell@dungog.nsw.gov.au Steve low 4996 4022 steve.low49@gmail.com
WWW.THESENTINELNEWS.COM.AU The Dungog District Chamber of Commerce The Pulse of the Shire February marked an important milestone with the delivery of the Community Action Plans for Dungog and Clarence Town. We look forward to seeing the outcomes of these plans unfold over the coming months. The Paterson team launched their Action Plan last year, which has already led to the establishment of a Community Hub in the village. This is a fantastic achievement by the team, led by Julie Overton, and a great example of what can be accomplished when a community works together. Over the past two years, DDCC has been closely involved with the Community Builders program across the Shire. Feedback from residents highlighted the need for a Welcome Pack for new and prospective residents. In partnership with the Dungog Shire Visitor Centre, DDCC has produced information folders containing a range of useful resources about life in our Shire. Each folder also includes a QR code linking to www. ddcc.org.au, where additional information can be found, including a directory of local organisations such as service, social, and sporting clubs. If your organisation is not listed, please contact us and we will be happy to add it. A Youth Council is currently being established in the Shire and will be auspiced by DDCC. We are proud to support this initiative, which will provide young people aged 12 to 25 with a meaningful voice in local matters. Our thanks go to Cheryl Royle and Jim Doyle for their tireless efforts in helping make the Youth Council a reality. Our February networking dinner meeting was held at the Clarence Town Bowling Club, where guest speaker Tony McLeod provided an overview of a major new development planned for Clarence Town. The March networking dinner meeting will be held in Dungog on Thursday 26 March at the Royal Hotel. For further details, please visit www.ddcc.org.au or our Facebook page. Dungog Shire Council’s draft Housing and Infrastructure Strategy was released for comment in December 2025. DDCC submitted a comprehensive response to this draft strategy and looks forward to reviewing the final version. So good to see the Clarence Town bridge progressing so well, great achievement and will improve Clarence Town’s residents connectivity immensely, and the world to Clarence Town. Speaking of water the Dungog Shire Council exhibition of Clarence Town Flood Study has now closed. We look forward to view the resulting plan. Stay tuned to DDCC’s social media channels for updates on these exciting events. Contact secretary@ddcc.org.au or visit www.ddcc.org.au Licensed Builder Specialising in renovations, extensions and all forms of concreting - including structural and specialty formwork Call Aaron | 0488 113 062 | Lic 349914C aaron@tayloredconstructionsolutions.com.au
BUSINESS & SERVICES PAGE 15 17
WWW.THESENTINELNEWS.COM.AU Call James: 0402 260 166 Email: info@builtwithintegrity.com.au License No: 304102c Services: Renovations Bathroom Kitchen Laundry Extensions New Builds Outdoor Living Carpentry builtwithintegrity_ All areas of carpentry and construction ~Decks & Pergolas ~Bathrooms ~Kitchens ~Renovations ~Residential fencing CONSTRUCTIONS RRC 0448 095 767 Call Jack for a quote today PAUL CLARKE & ASSOCIATES Official Rainfall 2023 Clarence Town Rainfall Station
BUSINESS & SERVICES PAGE 17 Phillica IT Tips Windows 11 is killing legacy printer drivers in 2026 A Windows update that was released on January 15, will no longer support legacy V3 and V4 printer drivers. Now that support has officially ended, printers that rely exclusively on V3 or V4 drivers may fail to install or stop working altogether. If no supported driver exists, users may need to consider replacing the printer or switching to a newer printing solution before installing the non-security update (KB5074105) released in January, or before installing the February 2026 Security Update to avoid disruptions. From July 1, 2026, Windows will change its internal driver ranking order rules to “prefer” the built-in Microsoft IPP class driver when multiple options are available. A year later, on July 1, 2027, third-party printer driver updates delivered via Windows Update will be restricted to security-fixes only. This only affects old printers. V3 drivers were from the year 2000 and V4 from 2012. Following the release of Windows 10 21H2, in 2004 which removed the need for print device manufacturers to provide their own installers. Prior to this windows would not identify a printer without installing the software from the manufacturer. All manufacturers were required to submit signed driver files to Microsoft through WHCP (Windows Hardware Compatibility Program). If available you still should install the manufacturers software otherwise not all function will work such as scanning. Looking for Expert IT Services? Phillica specializes in repairs, virus removal, networking, and troubleshooting Visit: 410 Tarean Road, Karuah or call Phill: 4987 0188. 9 SOLICITOR W J Enright & Prentice Solicitors & Conveyancers 124 Dowling Street, Dungog. 2420 Phone: 4992 1730 Email: mail@felixprentice.com.au To get in touch our email is CTmuseum@outlook.com , Our phone number is 0491 346 491 , or you can reach us through Facebook. Around The District Saturday the 29th of July saw perfect weather as the Port Stephen’s Choir began the day with their mix of music: the Mid- Winter Festival Museum Open Day had begun! Next was the fashion parade with four female and one male as models. As each model walked the concrete podium, a representative from the Australian Museum of Clothing in Maitland described the garments’ history as an item of fashion, and the materials used, and the original owners if known. While this continued, there was a chance to have valuables appraised by an expert. Once again, Cotton Sax entertained us with his eclectic mix of songs and instrumental tracks. The local scouts provided a BBQ and there was coffee or fresh ice cream available. Young James provided tours as required and young Jack took photos of the event. Two weeks later, the Museum hosted morning Tea and BBQ lunch for the Dungog Rattlin’ Bones and Engine Groans Club AGM and Ordinary Meeting. The museum also received a $100 donation from this Club. Yours truly wore two suits from the 1970’s and by an interesting coincidence, one of our lovely Senior Citizens had known the owners of these suits, John Morris OAM, Foundation member of the Maitland Repertory Theatre, and Mr N Pyle, from when she was growing up in Rutherford! A gentleman from Queensland sent some information about his German descendants who arrived at Clarence Town in 1855. They are the Heinz family and the Krohmann family. Their connections here seem tenuous. They remained only a short time here, although owning a block of land in Marshall Street till 1910, before finding much success at Hill End in goldmining and very successful at real estate in Woollahra in Sydney. Chris O’Neill (Secretary) earliest. 2023- Council’ 45%. ignored. Sam Benson 0467 051 502 Individual Tax Returns, Small Business Accounting & Self-Managed Super Funds Stuart Flinn - CPA & Tax Agent 0407 956 264 stuart@flinnaccounting.com.au servicing dungog shire, maitland port stephens and newcastle SHOP SIGNAGE – OFFICE SIGNS – LIGHTBOXES – 3D LETTERING – WINDOW GRAPHICS –PRIVACY FROSTING – AWNING SIGNS – NEON & ILLUMINATED SIGNS – HOARDING SIGNS – DIRECTORY & WAYFINDING – BRAILLE SIGNS – CARPARK SIGNS – RECEPTION Contact Justin on 0431 000 330 justin@schweaverandson.com.au From shopfronts to factories, we design and install eye-catching signs that make a lasting impression. Attract customers with signage that works 24/7.
WWW.THESENTINELNEWS.COM.AU From the Parson’s Pen Easter is coming. About Boxing Day, if my memory is correct, Hot Cross Buns were back on sale, and now the Supermarkets are full of Easter Bunnies and Easter Eggs. And when Good Friday comes, the queues for fresh fish will be enormous. I am not sure about bunnies, no Christian symbolism there, but with the other treats, their origins represent Christian symbols. Plain fare for people during Lent are represented by the buns, and we are reminded of this by the cross marked on each one, recalling the death of Jesus Christ on a cross. The long wait for fresh fish on Good Friday carries on the Lenten Fast. Many people still follow the tradition of always abstaining from meat on each Friday of the year, and most especially during the 40 days of Lent and especially on Good Friday. Chocolate in its many forms is very central as we celebrate Easter Day, following the fasts of Lent many during Lent leading up to Good Friday and Easter Day. Having chocolate Hot Cross Buns requires a bit of confusion of ideas of the doing without rich food in Lent and celebrating with chocolate on Easter Day! Of course, Easter Eggs have a long tradition of Christians using them on Easter Day to celebrate New Life as we recall Jesus Christ rising from dead. Indeed in many cultures the eggs are actual hen eggs beautifully decorated. I may fuss a bit about symbols and what they mean, but what did really take my breath away, was when visiting our family who lived in China at that time. There amongst a whole wall of Christmas decorations, perfect to purchase to decorate your Christmas Tree, was a cross with Santa affixed! Then again, China has only a very small number of Christians, and as a society would not be aware of the implications of Santa on a cross! But you know, we live in a society in which science and factual information is central to our understanding of the world. It is good to remind ourselves that language can be used in many other ways as well: in love, poetry, prose, music, worship for example. Symbols are central we speak of, and try to understand, the divine. Words and facts are not enough. Which is why we use so much music, so many symbols, like candles to remind us that Jesus is the light of the world, to try to convey our meaning of which are beyond simple words. We are fortunate to live in a country where churches abound and we have so many beautiful ones around us in Clarence Town, Dungog, and surrounding towns. Even if you are not a regular churchgoer, you may like to go to Church at Easter, to celebrate the faith all these symbols relate to: Jesus Christ, God with us, who shows us how to live. You can find church times from your local denomination. I know you will find a warm welcome wherever you go. Easter Blessings, The Rev’d Beatrice Pate Locum Priest at Dungog Anglican Parish St. Patrick’s Catholic Church 41 Rifle St, Clarence Town Pastor: Rev Andrew Doohan Service Times: Every Sunday 8am 2026 is already flying by and we are commencing the season of Lent in preparation for Easter. We have recently welcomed four young parishioners into our church family on 2 separate Sundays during Mass. It was wonderful to be part of the celebration. Congratulations to those young people and may they be always blessed. Thanks for the recent rain we have had and please bless those who have been fighting fires and keeping us safe. Our prayers are also with the people who have been flooded in northern Australia. Dorothea Mackellar was sure right in her poem when she speaks of ‘drought and flooding rain’. Blessings to all from St. Patrick’s Marilyn Amos Clarence Town Presbyterian Church 29 Marshall Street, Clarence Town (Opposite the School). Pastor: Rev Allan D. Welch Service Times: 10am Gathered Worship every Sunday, with morning tea provided. We welcome 2026 as an overwhelmingly ‘better year’, full of hope and peace. We are happy to report that the construction of the new 120 seat church building has finally commenced. Praise God! Once complete this will give us enough space to start kids church (Sunday School) which has been a long-term hope for our congregation. Our 1905 church building will be rejuvenated back to new and original condition, (long overdue we know!) where it will continue to be used as a hall for all manner of ministry activities. Completion of new Church building due around Easter time! Sermon series’ in John and Hebrews coming up in February through April. Sunday services, Mainly Music (every Wed), SRE (Scripture) at Clarence Town Public School (every Wed) Dungog Public School (every 2nd Wed) and Growth Groups (Bible study) will continue as usual during construction. “And what does the LORD require of you? To do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8 In Christ, Rev Allan D. Welch 0402 387 690
PAGE 19 Phone Bryce 0407 250 355 Email: t_giuffre@bigpond.com Opening Hours Monday to Friday 8:30 – 5:00pm edicines OUR CHURCHES
WWW.THESENTINELNEWS.COM.AU Christ Church, Dungog Dowling Street, Dungog Service Times: Every Friday 10.30am, Sunday 8.30am Sunday night service: 4th Sunday of every month at 5pm Well, the year has started off with a rush. The Op Shop has kept us busy in January. One Saturday we opened for the Scout Corroboree Weekend. They had to find a sign that is on the side of the Op Shop and the Lyche Gate on the corner. They had all these photos and had to get a photo of it with them in the photo. What a great event! They also bought a variety of items (especially soft toys!). Cuppa ‘n Chat has started back with all happy for this to start up. Our February markets were great with 26 Stallholders as well as the BBQ in the hall and Op Shop open. March Markets will be on the 7 th March and April will be the 4th April beginning at 8am. There will be a Garage Sale held at 78 Mary Street on Saturday the 21st March, from 8am. Lots of electrical appliances etc On Thursday 26th March we will welcome our new Priest, the Reverend Amanda Brockwell at Christ Church at 6 pm, all welcome to attend. We are all excited for this to happen. She will then be busy as the next week will be Easter. Our Op Shop that week will open on Thursday 2nd April and as it is Maundy Thursday there will be a service in the Church that night. Services as usual Friday 10.30 am. Sunday 8.30 am and on the 22nd February we had Sunday Nite for the first time this year at 5 pm. There will be no Sunday Nite on the 22nd March as that is the day we will farewell Rev Beatrice Pate and Dennis who have been with us since September. We are having a Combined 9 am service only that day. Thanks Margaret Flannery St. John’s Anglican Church 36 Grey St, Clarence Town Pastor: Rev Beatrice Pate Service Times: Every Sunday, Holy Communion at 10.30am, followed by morning tea. At this year’s Australia Day celebrations in Dungog, our beloved Gillian Finch was awarded co-recipient Australia Day Citizen of the Year, being recognized for her work in our community with the Op Shop and Treasure Centre which would not exist if not for her vision, passion, determination and hard work. Congratulations and well done Gillian, you are a true disciple of our Lord. We are hoping to have the central panel of our beautiful stained glass window of the Good Samaritan re-installed very Dave Layzell MP, presenting the award to Gillian Finch soon. It will be lovely to have it all back in place again. Our pancake night on the 17th February was again a lovely evening with many attending to enjoy fellowship and of course, great food. The annual Harvest Festival will be held on Sunday 15th March with our service at 10.30am and the auction of produce and cooking after the service. Once again, these proceeds will go to our Mission Projects, both domestic and overseas. Do come along and join us. Our grateful thanks to the Rev. Beatrice Pate and husband Dennis for looking after our parish until a new minister could be appointed. This has happened and the Rev. Amanda Brockwell will be commissioned as Rector of our Parish on 26th March, in Dungog. More information in the Christ Church report. We will be having a farewell and thank you service and morning tea for Rev. Beatrice and Dennis on Sunday, 22nd March at 9am in Dungog. This is a combined service – there is no service here at St. John’s, Clarence Town on that day. Our Easter services will be – Good Friday at 10.30am and Easter Morning at 10.30am also. Later in the year – 16th August, we will be celebrating 120 years of our current building. A great time to remember all those faithful parishioners who worked so hard to build this church after the fire of 1906, and who, over the generations, have cared for and maintained our lovely church so that it can continue to serve the community. Our weekly services are 10.30am each Sunday, with morning tea in the hall following the service. Everyone most welcome. Sue Flannery
OUR SCHOOLS PAGE 21 Clarence Town Primary Public School Welcome to the 2026 School year! We began the year with four staff development days, a crucial time for us to come together to prioritise teacher professional learning. Our staff joined staff from all schools within the Hunter Principals Network for a day of learning at Francis Greenway High School, we completed a full day of First Aid training and teachers prepared teaching and learning programs and organised their classrooms, ready to start another wonderful year of learning at Clarence Town Public School. Students returned to school on Monday 2 February, including 18 new Kindergarten students, bringing our school enrolment to over 160! It has been a lovely couple of weeks watching our newest CTPS learners settle in, making new friends, exploring their classroom and giving everything a go. From big smiles on the first day to hands-on learning, play and discovery, it has been fantastic to watch their confidence grow. School Leaders 2026 This year our school will be led by our captains Zahli and Levi, along with student leaders Bentley, Grace and Seth. These students have some outstanding leadership capability and will do a magnificent job supporting our students. Around the school grounds Ms Thomas has kept the school garden in fantastic shape over the holidays. Our student gardeners have been busy in the garden since returning to school, exploring the summer crop, weeding and saving seeds. Our tomatoes and cucumbers have been prolific, but nothing like our Trombonino harvest! Our beehives have made a new home in Woodville and through the ‘Humble Hive Collective’, our honey has been entered into the Maitland Show. We are very much looking forward to visiting the hive this term. Kim Smith, Principal clarenceto-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au / (02) 4996 4156 Clarence Town Op Shop & Treasure Centre The Fifteen-Dollar Fill: Bag a Summer Bargain After a lovely well-deserved break, we are back in full swing at the Op Shop. A happy and healthy New Year to you all and we look forward to welcoming you and serving our community for many years to come. It is a privilege to get to know everyone. We have some great Summer bargains, so do come in, have a chat and check out the fashions – at the moment ‘fill-a-bag for $15. We have work clothes and also Clarence Town School uniforms. Welcome to new volunteers, Julie and Leonie. Great to have you both join us. WANTED – FOAM BOXES WITH LIDS FOR STORAGE PLEASE We will be changing over to Autumn/Winter stock on 1st April, so there’s plenty of time for you to get your Summer bargains. Blessings to all. Gillian Finch 4994 9168 / 0477 326 142 St. John’s Anglican Church, Cnr of Grey & Queen Sts The CTPS School Gardeners! Welcome new kinders for 2026
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