Mystery lamb death prompts police investigations

BY JARROD MELMETH

Police are appealing for information following the theft of two lambs in Gresford over the weekend.

Port Stephens-Hunter Police say between 5:30am on Saturday 3 July and 11pm Sunday 4 July two Dorper lambs were stolen from a paddock at a property at a property on Paterson River Road.

In a turn of events, the lambs were returned to the property in the early hours of Monday 5 July however, one of them was found to be sick and later died.

Police are urging anyone with information about the theft to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Dungog Police Station on 02 4940 7560.

Source: Port Stephens-Hunter Police.

Government to Upgrade Gresford

BY GARY LYSAGHT

The Federal Government has committed to chipping in $1 million to help Dungog Shire Council upgrade Gresford’s main road.

The announcement was part of an election promise, which will see Park Street upgraded with the Government’s assistance, along with $3 million from Council.

Gresford's new MP, David Gillespie (left) with Dungog Mayor Harold Johnston. 

Lyne MP David Gillespie says the road has been in need of an upgrade for some time.

“It’s not drained and it’s on a hill.  And when it’s raining it’s really quite dangerous because there’s nowhere for the water to run away to,” he said.

The road is also an essential part of the Gresford Billy Cart Derby, an annual event which sees more than 5 000 tourists visit the small town and pump more than $50 000 into the economy.

“People come from all over the State, not just nearby Newcastle and Maitland,” said Gillespie.

“It’s an iconic event.”

The road can be dangerous for the racers, with the road being quite worn out.

“The surface is pretty dodgy and that’s why I think the Gresford billy cart people will be extremely happy,” said the town’s new MP.

Gresford became part of Lyne after the electoral redistributions which saw the abolition of Charlton and dramatic changes to Hunter, currently held by Labor stalwart, Joel Fitzgibbon.

Previously, Gresford was in Paterson, then held by former MP Bob Baldwin.

Gillespie is hopeful his funding commitment will get him and his new constituents off to a good start.

“I’m demonstrating that I can deliver the goods for what has been promised in the past,” he said. 

[Image Source: The Newcastle Herald].