It is ecium plantangineum, colloquially known as Paterson’s Curse, Salvation Jane or Riverina Bluebell. Dealing with this Class 4 weed is the responsibility of the relevant landholder.

The area is in part of a Travelling Stock Route with the rest presumably Crown land, neither of which is the responsibility of our Council or private landholders, perhaps instead that of Local Land Services.

Informed opinion is that the incidence of Paterson’s Curse has been considerably reduced over recent years. Biological control using the Crown Weevil (developed by CSIRO) has helped. There may be some merit in keeping patches of Paterson’s Curse as a ‘bank’ for these insects so that they can be deployed to future outbreaks.

The visually stunning display brought to mind ‘Purple Haze’ by Jimi Hendrix, the name adopted to refer to a particular hybrid of marijuana.

So best to know the difference between your Salvation Jane and your Mary Jane!

The Gunning Scouts are holding their Car Wash Fundraiser on Sunday, October 30 from 10am-3pm at the Gunning Service Station. Cars cost $20 for a wash and $30 for a wash and vacuum. Larger vehicles will cost a little bit more. If you want to book or need more information, please contact gunningscoutsare@gmail.com or text 0429 404 931.

Give your car a spring clean and help the Scouts.

On Monday Gunning Garden Club members enjoyed a visit to the National Trust’s ‘Riversdale’ in Goulburn. It is an evolving project which is a tribute to the volunteers who launched an all out war on pervasive vinca to now be confident enough to enter a heritage garden competition. The garden is currently complemented by a display of charming botanical paintings.

The Gunning Roos and Rooettes Rugby League team has won the NRL’s Grassroots Club of the Year – congratulations to all concerned!

The Telegraph Hotel Snooker Club’s next round starts in November. Contact Mel Lawrence 0411 664 567 or the Club’s Facebook page.

Yass Polocrosse ran a very successful team sorting event last weekend at Gunning Showgrounds that included catering for 230 people on the Saturday night.

Are you a young woman who could act as an ambassador for rural NSW, with your role involving many official and informal duties both at the Sydney Royal Easter Show and during your travels interstate and overseas? The first step is to consider entering the 2017 Gunning Showgirl competition – secretary@gunningshow.com.au or 0417 490 329.

It is with heartfelt regret that we bid farewell to Dr Ruth McCracken who is leaving our local medical practice for family reasons. Dr Adrian Adams will commence on October 31 as a locum. Please contact 4845 1046 to book an appointment .