The Bruce Bray Riparian Walk funded by South East Local Land Services was formally opened last Saturday. Ngunnawal custodian and elder Wally Bell welcomed those present to country, noting that there is now scientific evidence that the Ngunnawal people have been present in the Canberra region for 21,000 years.
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Mrs Liz Bray, widow of the late Bruce Bray unveiled the sign and said how proud Bruce would have been at this honour from the Jerrawa Creek Landcare Group. Upper Lachlan Shire Mayor John Shaw congratulated all those involved in the initiative, including local school children.
There are three interpretative signs outlining aboriginal connection; birdlife and vegetation. Wally Bell was on hand to enhance understanding of the sign relating to Aboriginal history of the site that formed part of an important route from Yass through to Lake George and the coast.
Nicki Taws of Greening Australia noted that while some native birds had adapted to the introduced trees and bushes currently evident around Barbour Park, we could expect a further variety as plantings of native species mature. Thanks to the Willoughby family, complementary planting has been done on the other side of the creek.
Geological fossicker Michael Brown had scoured the surrounds and turned up some very interesting items including coins, stirrups, shell casings and some beautifully chased belt buckles. The site was part of a bullock wagon route with an inn where there was likely heavy carousing, fisticuffs and probable gun fights!
Local history buff and author Keith Brown spoke of the nearby grave of Henry Dunkley, foully murdered by his wife Lucretia and her paramour Martin Beech and later buried in what was then the police horse paddock, now the sewage works. Keith’s book “The Day That Dunkley Died” is available from the author (4845 1797), Gunning Historical Society (4845 1809), the local service station or the Old Hume Cafe.
The entry to the Bruce Bray Riparian Walk is at the end of Biala Street on the opposite side of Meadow Creek from the swimming pool. Check it out – it is a real bonus for the village.
Unleash your inner Scot by joining a full-day coach-trip to Bundanoon for its 38th Scottish Highland Festival of “Brigadoon” on Saturday April 11, organised by Gunning Community Care at $50pp. There will be massed bands, Scottish dancing and Highland games. Please contact GCC on 4845 1166 and pay before Easter.
The NSW Mini Trot Association is holding their Championships at the Gunning Showgrounds over Easter, with free entry and information on 0418 433 979.
“This year has seen all records broken with 162 ponies nominated to participate in over 100 races over the two day carnival," Spokesman Daryll Jackson said.
At the club’s recent AGM, Diana Oke was elected as President with other office bearers being Pam Lees, Kay Walmsley, Anne Walmsley, Ros McLoughlin, Hazel Rath and Anne Homes.
A working bee on April 20 will ensure that the garden areas around the Cenotaph are in good order for the ANZAC Day ceremonies. Please contact the Secretary on 4845 1021 for further information.
A grass fire on Grovenor Street threatened a residence last Sunday but thanks to a rapid response from Gunning/Fish River RFB crews, it was quickly brought under control.
Today: Gypsy music and George Washingmachine, Picture House Gallery from 6.30-8.30pm.
Saturday: Dalton School Autumn Fair: Election Day Barbecues at Dalton and Gunning schools.
Sunday: Focus Group. John Gould and Anne Stevens at 2pm at Court Room.