Everything was devoured in the inferno. The fire was too fierce to retrieve anything including their mobile phones and car keys so they could not contact the fire brigade or anyone else for help so stayed put all night. One can imagine their son Andrew’s shock on finding them early next day.

Lester, whose health is already compromised, was air lifted from Yass and is recovering from smoke inhalation in ICU at Wagga Hospital while Myrtle is with Andrew’s family. 

Phenomenal help

Daughter-in-law Leslie Bush says the assistance given and offered by district people, organisations, businesses and events has been phenomenal.  

The family’s dearest hope is to secure a future at 'Springwood' for Lester and Myrtle as their home was not insured. Donations can be made either through ANZ account 012 281 29658 8885 (please include your name unless you prefer anonymity) or by credit card through the internet at www.mycause.com.au.

Change at Gunning Newsagency

Margaret McPherson is the new village newsagent since the Gunning Pharmacy was relinquishing this role. Margaret intends to stock the usual range of newspapers, magazines, stationery and cards together with some antiques. Congratulations Margaret and all the best for your new venture! 

Japanese Garden

Last month members of the Gunning Garden Club visited a Japanese-themed garden in Canberra. There is a Torii gate, a tea house, delightful pathways, small garden ‘rooms’ complete with a wide variety of plants. Although a modest sized garden, there is so much of interest that it seems much more expansive.   

The next Garden Club meeting is on Sunday October 11 at 2pm at Pauline Wicksteed’s home in Bellmount Forest. New members are always welcome and more information can be obtained from Club Secretary Hazel Rath on 4845 1021.

Stan Bowden

Stanley William Bowden passed away on July 6 this year. He was born in London on May 22, 1933, the baby of a family of ten who were evacuated to the country at the outbreak of WWII.

Stan married the light of his life Pat and later they immigrated to Australia where he put his training in heating and ventilation to good use working for others and also for himself. Eventually they moved to Gunning where Stan built their home.

Pat bred and showed Newfoundland dogs - an interest that Stan shared. Stan was a keen golfer and a past president of Gunning Community & Health Service.

Those who supported Stan on his journey with dementia shared some funny and beautiful moments at his funeral service. Whenever there was a down moment he was asked to sing a song and this seemed to release his fears and confusion. His signature tune was “Danny Boy”.

Stan’s service was conducted by Pastor Ellen Manwaring. Those who spoke of their memories of Stan were Alan and Geraldine Robinson, Michelle Goff and Jo Boyce with words from Stan’s eldest brother Albert read out.  

Stan Bowden was remembered by everyone who spoke at his funeral service as always being in good spirits, a gentle gentleman, a beloved friend, a hard worker, blessed with a great sense of humour and a wonderful singing voice. He is missed and our continued compassionate thoughts are with his wife Pat.

Coming up

Saturday October 17: OCTUBAFEST at the Gunning Shire Hall from 11.30am. Call 0417 663 045. 

Monday October 19: PA&I Society at the Courthouse. All helpers welcome. Call 0448 274 366.