The Challenging Year
This time last year, three years of drought had punished the village parks and gardens and pushed the area's farmers to the limit. Smoke from the massive coastal bushfires, driven by easterly winds, hazed the air on occasions, reducing visibility on the village streets.
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Rain in January and February provided some hope and by the end of March some 270mm of rain had greened the countryside.
But March also brought the unwelcome spectre of the COVID19 pandemic, shutting down businesses and schools, disrupting scheduled events on the village calendar, cancelling our travel plans, and placing many residents under financial stress.
We learnt new terms, like iso' and 'social distancing', and we faced the challenge with, mostly, stoic endurance.
The three months prior to the June long-weekend were testing, but when the 50 kilometre travel limit was lifted, and people could again visit the area, Millthorpe's recovery and growing renown was assured.
With good management of the challenging year, and with more than 900mm rain recorded, Millthorpe's village and rural residents can be cautiously optimistic that we have stared down 2020.
Museum
With our renowned museum scheduled to open every day from 27th December to 26th January to cater for school holiday visitors to Millthorpe, extra volunteers to join the roster are needed.
If you can spare four hours, between 11am and 3pm, on any given day within that period, it would be warmly appreciated.
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Please contact Judy Hill if you are able to help out, either by phone on 0477279817 or by email ( j.bhill2@bigpond.com).
The completion of the new toilet block is on track for the summer school holidays, and what a fantastic facility it is, with quality inclusions and outstanding design and style.
It will be particularly appreciated when the museum hosts groups, or events are held in the old St Joseph's classroom building.
The museum grounds are also looking marvellous, with lawns and gardens a credit to the volunteers who help maintain them.
Twilight Shopping
Another stand-out Millthorpe event is on, and clear skies are forecast. This Friday, December 11th, Twilight Shopping will feature an impressive 22 shops, open until 8pm, and 7 eateries open until late, so come and support them.
SOMETHING FOR THE eNEWS?
Do you have a local story for Millthorpe Matters? Want to include a reminder for your next club meeting? Contact charliedunn7@yahoo.com.au
