So what is this treasure? It is Travelling Stock Reserve No 59 that has high natural resource values. Rebecca Widdows, Local Land Services (LLS) Officer in Yass, describes this TSR as mixed box-gum woodland of which only about 5 per cent has not been cleared. Of that remaining, most have introduced pasture and/or weed dominated understorey. The ground flora on TSR 59 is intact being a great mix of species with an exceptional level of biodiversity. Rebecca says "It is something special!"

A visit with Upper Lachlan Shire Councillor John Searl, Dalton's Dave Wiseman and Senior Biosecurity Officer (South East LLS) Chris Harris revealed abuse of the TSR by motorbikes and other vehicles with natural waterways and banks used as obstacles courses.

Hefty fines

At the TSR there was clear evidence of a camp with chairs, felled trees, a stack of corrugated iron sheets and foundation holes dug, presumably to erect some sort of structure, all these activities being against the Local Land Services Act 2013 with possible hefty fines.

Some of the alleged trespassers have already been interviewed by LLS and the police. 

Alternative use

Chris hopes to get more secure fencing and will erect prominent signs that make it crystal clear what is prohibited in this area. Councillor Searl sees that this undisturbed bush oasis could be made into an asset for the town, capable of attracting visitors to Dalton. 

Walking trails could be signposted, offering visitors and locals alike the opportunity to wander through nearly pristine bush and enjoy the abundant bird life.  What a great idea and so do-able!

Nursery rhymes

Next week is National Literacy and Numeracy Week. My early days of learning my ABC and sums are far behind me but I recall clearly the various nursery rhymes that contributed to my appreciation of language. 

Some nursery rhymes were cumulative tales that help with vocabulary and memory like 'There was an old woman who swallowed a fly'.

On a recent visit to Dalton, I was reminded of another nursery rhyme - 'The house that Jack built'. Remember the bit about 'The cow with the crumpled horn'? You will probably be surprised to learn that a descendent of the that animal is now living in Dalton - I've got the photo to prove it!

Horses in WW1

The Goulburn Penny Post of August 20, 1914, carried an appeal to local owners to supply horses and for those enlisting to bring their own (see latest Gunning Lions Noticeboard for full text). A new exhibition 'Spirited: Australia's Horse Story' is coming up at the National Museum running from next month to March 2015. As an example of the role of horses in Australia, former Gunning Shire weeds officer, Lance Cooke, remembers chipping serrated tussock from horseback, using a long handled hoe.

Tree planting

A joint effort between local landcarers, Gunning Public School and Greening Australia will plant almost 200 trees around Barbour Park and Meadow Creek on Wednesday September 10 from 9.30am (information 4845 8217). Although Meadow Creek did not break its banks in Barbour Park last weekend, there was localised flooding. This could augur well for ideal planting conditions.

Coming up

August 23&26/September 6 - Gunning Community Care consultations, 4845 1166.

Sunday 24/September 8 - 2pm Shire Hall, National Capital Orchestra + David Pereira.

Sunday 31/September 8 - Lions Markets and PA&I Soc Wood Auction for Martin family.