Hail Henry Lawson

By Darren Stones

Says Grenfell to Lawson’s spirit, for he was born on her cherished goldfield.
And as the years pass quickly, we read he can’t get over that.

Birthplace of Australian poet and writer, Henry Lawson (1867-1922).
Photo: Darren Stones


Likeness of Henry Lawson during the Grenfell Henry Lawson Festival of Arts.
Photo: Darren Stones

Shirley Grant flying the flag for short-changed pensioners

By Darren Stones

Australian age pensioners are as mad as hell and they’re not going to take it anymore. Pensioner activist Shirley Grant, 72, of Glenroy, Victoria is leading the grey power charge and wants a fair increase to the age pension.

Pensioner activist Shirley Grant
Photo: Darren Stones

In recent weeks, Federal Treasurer Wayne Swan and Deputy Leader Julia Gillard have conceded they couldn’t live on the age pension. Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has said that age pensioners are finding it difficult. Yet they seem slow to act in addressing the situation and the pensioners are gathering a head of steam.

Mrs Grant, along with Family First senator Steve Fielding, organised the fair go for pensioners protest that was held on 16 May 2008 at the intersection of Flinders and Swanston Streets in Melbourne.

During the 200 strong protest, a woman stripped down to her 10-year-old bra, a man stripped to his jocks, and Senator Fielding bared his slim torso in support of the pensioners.

Mrs Grant is a mild-mannered articulate lady who is up for the battle. She lives in a humble suburban unit with husband Vince, and they say they’re fighting the fight for the pensioners of today and tomorrow.

Central Tilba - a picture postcard village

By Darren Stones

Central Tilba, population 100, is an historic village located on the Eurobodalla Coast in New South Wales, Australia.

The town is classified by the National Trust and is primarily relient on tourism. The imposing Dromedary Hotel provides good pub meals and is an ideal stopping point for a beverage.

There's old-style accommodation at the hotel, the Two Storey Bed & Breakfast, as well as a few other B&Bs in the village.

The ABC Cheese Factory is a must-do with free samples of cheese and honey available. Ice-cream is also one of their specialties.

The Woodturning Gallery has excellent small carved works which make ideal gifts, with more expensive items such as dining furniture, large tables and leadlight lamps also on display.

I have a collection of photographs featuring Central Tilba which are for sale here , and the 2009 Central Tilba Calendar can be previewed and purchased here .

Here's a short slideshow of Central Tilba to enjoy.