Ariah Park Special Guest at Mirrool Creek Walk Among the walkers who enjoyed early Spring conditions for the annual Mirrool Creek walk near Ariah Park was Temora's Marie Moloney (nee Harmon) Marie revealed she was the great granddaughter of George Harmon, who was one of the early settlers in the "Merool Creek” and "Quandary Run" districts. George built the first dam on the Mirrool Creek, just west of the present Broken Dam Bridge, in about 1860. The swift waters of the Mirrool Creek in flood were too much for the structure, and the dam was broken, and so the locality of Broken Dam was born. Marie's father was Harold Harmon, and her grandfather was John Harmon who married Harriet Preston. Marie enjoyed reading the heritage panels on the Broken Dam Heritage Walk giving the history of the different bridges that were built on the creek, and the site of the first dam wall that George Harmon built. She found out more about the significant contribution her great grandfather, George Harmon made to the Ariah Park, Broken Dam and Quandary districts. When the Village of Ariah Park was proclaimed in 1907, Harmon Street was included in the list of street names. The welcome rain last week measuring around 40millimetres was good enough to fill the Railway Dam at Ariah Park. The Railway Dam was built in 1927 to provide water for the steam trains, and in recent years it has provided water for the Ariah Park Bowling Club and for the Temora Shire Council seeking water for their roadworks. With the assistance of grant funds and Council funds, the dam was desilted last year, and in the process, it was made larger and the northern bank removed to open up a potential recreation and picnic area. Council has planted trees and shrubs, and plans for the Ariah Park community to add other facilities and attractions are in hand. The completion of the Ariah Park Railway Dam upgrade will be targeted to be ready for the Back to Ariah Park Weekend in June 2027, when it will be celebrated that it is 100 years since the dam was built. *** Sunday 13 September will be a very big day in the delightful heritage village of Ariah Park. There will be something for everyone, from the impressive line-up of stall holders (no two stalls the same) at the Memorial Hall to a whole town garage sale to the yard dog trials running at the showground. Also, our beautiful Post Office Gift shop and Second Glance Op shop will be open in conjunction with the markets. To keep your hunger at bay The Ariah Park Men's Shed are running a barbeque, a coffee van and a stall with delicious homemade cakes and slices will be available at the hall. A gold coin will buy you a map and addresses of the garage sale sites. All money raised will go directly to the Hall committee to help keep the hall in tip top condition. There will also be food available at the showground to keep you satisfied while you watch the amazing doggy's do what they do best. So come along and support these events and give the visitors to our town something to remember. *** A memorial service for Tom Writer was held at the Ariah Park Football ground with a very large group gathered to remember a very personable young man. Family and friends spoke of his unwavering smile and his care of others plus his thirst for knowledge all things farming. The large crowd was a testament to his family and Tom himself He will be greatly missed. *** The Northern Jets 18s plus football team had to win on Saturday to be in the grand final, however, unfortunately it wasn’t meant to be. *** The Under 17s netball team started out strong and were up by 10 goals at one stage. Temora seem to find another gear and at the final whistle the cites were level and once again went into extra time. Unfortunately, Temora was on a roll and took the win once again by three goals. It was a great game to watch and both teams should be proud of their efforts. *** Birthday wishes to Sam Dart this week. Barmedman News Happy Father’s Day to all the Dads in the community, enjoy your day. *** After a relatively mild winter, spring has arrived along with flowering trees and gardens displaying their spring colours. It is also Show season with the 125th West Wyalong show being held next Wednesday 9th September. *** The Mobile Regional Library will be in Barmedman on Monday 7th September 9.30-10.30 for your chance to choose a book, audio book or magazine to enhance your day. The library is a free facility in your town for all to use so go along, join the library and enjoy all the services it has to offer. *** Jed Andrew Taylor was baptised on Sunday 23rd August at Sacred Heart Catholic Church Temora. Jed is the son of Bradon and Bree Taylor and grandson of Andrew and Nikki. *** A reminder that Shotgun Wedding is playing at the Bowling Club this evening, Friday 4th September and don’t forget to book your table for the Fathers Day roast lunch on Sunday. *** The first Mass held at St Joseph’s Catholic Church Barmedman was on the 19th March 1916 and unfortunately the last Mass was held on Sunday 23rd August, 2026, 110 years later. Mass was celebrated by Father Alex Osborne, Parish Priest from Temora. Approximately sixty relatives and friends as well as former parishioners came from across the state including Temora and West Wyalong to attend this sad occasion, with many apologies for those unable to be there. Keith Ryall travelled from Leeton along with other family members including Anne Wodonga, Helen James Sydney, Margaret Fayle and husband from Hay along with other local Ryall families. Marie Pinney nee Fiegert travelled from Temora to join her brother John Narrandera and sister Margaret Duffy and husband Sean from Goulburn. Among the congregation was Patricia Wells and Margaret Ryall nee McNamara who had all the important milestones of their lives within the church celebrated at St Josephs including their baptisms and weddings. All of their children were baptised at St Josephs with six of them celebrating their marriages. Paul Edwards, a new resident to Barmedman read the days readings with Stephanie Sandow reading The Prayers of the Faithful. After Mass Keith Ryall, son of Pat and Jim, spoke to the congregation of his memories attending Mass at St Josephs including how each family had their dedicate seat in the church and was able to name all the alter boys. His Mother Pat played the organ for many years as did her sister-in-law Margaret. A beautiful cake depicting the church was made and donated by former Barmedman girl Tracey McCormack nee Bush which was cut by Father Alex and the two oldest members of St Josephs, Margaret Ryall and Patricia Wells which was shared with the congregation along with lots of happy memories. The first Mass for Barmedman was held in 1882 and held at the property “Fairview” the home of Mr W. Marshall when the priest would ride out to Barmedman on horseback and take Mass in private homes. Father Mullins who enlisted from Barmedman as a Chaplain and was awarded a Military Cross, planned St Josephs Church before being appointed to Ardlethan Catholic Church. Coolamon News A recent social media post by the Coolamon Amateur Swimming Club has drawn renewed attention to the growing challenge of volunteer shortages across the Coolamon Shire. The club’s message, which encouraged members to complete registration forms and highlighted the need for additional support heading into the new season, reflects a broader issue affecting many community organisations. While the club’s post focused on preparing for its upcoming activities, its underlying concern was unmistakable: even long‑standing and well‑supported groups are struggling to attract volunteers. This trend is not isolated. Sporting clubs, service organisations and emergency services across the region are reporting increasing difficulty in filling committee roles and operational positions. Mayor David McCann said the situation is becoming increasingly urgent. “What we’re seeing in Coolamon is part of a national challenge,” Cr McCann said. Our population has grown by around 15 per cent since 2001, yet many of our community groups — including our Swim Club, Fire and Rescue NSW Retained Brigade, RFS and SES — are finding it harder than ever to attract volunteers. The issue isn’t numbers; it’s willingness. The old saying ‘many hands make light work’ has never been more relevant.” Cr McCann said the pressures facing younger families are well understood, but the community cannot ignore the strain on essential services and local clubs. “Whatever your interest, skill set or motivation, there is a community organisation, service club or emergency service that will genuinely appreciate your involvement. Volunteering strengthens our towns, supports our neighbours and keeps vital services running.” He encouraged residents with an interest in swimming — or simply a desire to support a local club — to consider reaching out to the Coolamon Amateur Swimming Club as it works to fill vacant committee positions ahead of the season. *** As we are coming into the warmer months it is important to assess and rectify possible danger and general untidiness in your yard and property. Landowners have the responsibility for the upkeep of yards and are encouraged to include the yard or entirety in your spring cleaning schedule. Properties should be maintained in a neat and tidy condition, not overgrown, free from accumulations of rubbish or waste material. If the grass exceeds forty centimetres (40cm) in length, Council may issue a notice to cut the grass. Council may also issue penalty infringement notices, should the registered property owner not attend to their property after being notified by Council. *** The Coolamon and District History Group held its 2026 Annual General Meeting last Saturday, confirming a steady leadership team for the year ahead. President Marc Canino was returned unopposed and will continue to guide the organisation, with Clyde Godde re‑elected as Vice President, Cathy Booth as Secretary and Chris Mutton as Treasurer. In presenting his annual report, Mr Canino outlined a productive year for the group, noting in particular the success of the grave identification project, which has significantly improved local historical records. With Coolamon’s 150th anniversary approaching in 2031, the group has begun planning its contribution to the milestone celebrations. Early proposals include the publication of a commemorative anniversary book, with further ideas to be explored in the coming year. *** Coolamon Shire Council reminds Canola Trail visitors not to trespass on working farms or enter canola paddocks for photos. These are private properties and unauthorised access poses safety risks and disrupts operations. Landowners can collect free “No Trespassing” signs from the Coolamon Shire Library to help deter unwanted entry. Council encourages all visitors to enjoy the stunning views from designated areas and respect the rights of local farmers. *** News from the Coolamon Shire Library this week includes: Storytime 2026. Our next Storytime will be held Friday 4th September at 10.30am theme – “Babies”- Everyone is most welcome. Lego Club. Lego Club will commence again on Wednesdays from 4.00pm – 5.00pm and then on Saturday at 10.30am – 11.30am. Everyone is most welcome to attend. Book Deliveries. The Library book delivery service is still available. Books will be delivered every Friday, phone the Library for further details – 69272492. Community Recycling Station. The Library has a recycling station for your household wastes. Items that can be dropped into the library are fluorescent globes and tubes, mobile phones and accessories, smoke detectors and household batteries. The Coolamon Library is on Facebook. News, pictures, events and opportunities are regularly uploaded – join us now. Coolamon From our Past From Our Past this week revisits the rhythm of Coolamon life in 1926, capturing a district alive with enterprise, sport and community spirit. The reports range from the triumph of a record‑breaking Coolamon Show and a heartfelt tribute to its tireless secretary, to the fortunes of local football and tennis teams, notable family milestones, and the steady spread of wireless sets across the town. Social gatherings, church exhibitions, agricultural meetings and news of well‑known residents all weave together to reveal a community both industrious and closely connected, offering a vivid snapshot of everyday life a century ago. *** ‘…The Coolamon Show this year was a wonderful success and exceeded all previous years in every respect — record entries, record gate takings, record number of sideshows, and ground exhibits. The horse section was splendid. It exceeded previous years by almost 100 entries. The president, Mr. W. A. Iverach, and secretary, Mr. Seymour, aided by the splendid committee, carried out their duties in a most, efficient manner, and deserve every credit. The weight judging caused considerable interest and over £30 was realised, the winner being Mr. Maloney, of Marrar, who gave the correct weight, 920½lb. Eight others were within half a pound. *** On Monday afternoon, at the committee meeting of the A. and P. Association on the show ground, a most pleasing function took place. Mr. J. H. Seymour, the popular show secretary, was made a presentation of a wallet of 50 notes, subscribed by his many friends. The president spoke in the highest terms of Mr. Seymour stating that a few years ago the committee was on the verge of bankruptcy. Then, Mr. Seymour took over and they never looked back, and were now in a sound position. Mr. A. W. Stinson, who made the presentation, slated that Mr. Seymour had his heart and soul in the show and had done wonders. Mr. Seymour suitably responded. *** The Coolamon Tennis Club was engaged in two matches over the weekend. The A team -went to Ganmain and, after a most enjoyable day, suffered a severe defeat, and the B team met Dullah, at Coolamon, and also suffered defeat, but a most enjoyable day was spent. *** The Coolamon Rugby footballers registered still another win defeating Barmedman after a most interesting game, quite the best game of Rugby seen in Coolamon for some time. " Poddy " Slade was responsible for some really brilliant field goals. The result was Coolamon 27 points, Barmedman 9 points. *** Much sympathy is felt in Coolamon for Mr. G. Harper, who lost his wife in sad circumstances on Saturday. Mr. Harper was best known among the footballers, he being an active member of the Marrar club. *** The sad news was made known on Thursday night that one of Coolamon's oldest and most respected residents, Mr. Peter Iverach, had died. Mr. Iverach was confined to his bed for some months before his death, and he bore his illness with much fortitude. To his relations all sympathy is extended. Mr. Iverach was 84 years of age. *** Wireless is becoming very popular in Coolamon, and each week new sets are being installed. Conditions the last few weeks have been ideal and some exceptionally fine programmes have been received from all stations, 4QG Brisbane in particular. *** The annual School of Arts ball is to be held this month. The Wagga Dixieland Orchestra has been engaged and a splendid night is assured. *** The Methodist Church annual industrial exhibition and flower show is to be held in Furner's Hall this month. This year it promises to exceed all previous exhibitions. A special prize of a gold wristlet watch is offered for the six best scones. *** Methul 's popular resident., Mr. Alex McKinnon, has returned from his extended trip to West. Australia, looking exceptionally well. He reports having had a wonderful time. *** A largely attended meeting of wheat growers elected Mr. G. H. Cox, of Ganmain, to represent the district at the Bathurst Producers' Conference, to be held next week, with Mr. J. R. C. Higman as emergency delegate. *** Mr. Clarrie Vesperman, one of Coolamon's prominent footballers, is at present an inmate of the Wagga Hospital, suffering with an affection of the throat. It was thought an operation would have to be performed to obtain relief, but now this is considered unlikely.…’
