Apparently the NBN and its internet providers have a different view.

To them, we are just a collection of rural houses that can benefit from a satellite-based internet solution like SkyMuster, just like farms or other collections of rural residences.

In Gunning, those already with landline based ADSL connections may be forced to a lower speed, reduced upload and download as providers seem unsure of whether this option will be continued.

Why is our proximity to the Hume Highway being overlooked with its fibre-optic options and strong 4G terrestrial phone and data access?

What is more puzzling is that better than satellite options are being accessed in the village by a lucky few and such solutions might be easily available to all.

Has the option of a shared infrastructure through an existing connection that was paid for by a state government body been considered?

Can our elected state and federal members help with sorting this out?

It would seem a travesty that provision of much better internet services for our farming neighbours may have sown the seeds for offering a much inferior service in local villages.

Senior citizens, along with current and former residents of Gunning district, enjoyed a delicious Christmas lunch last Saturday preceded by beautiful singing from the Alfresco Jubilo choir. 

The supper room, recently painted from a contemporary colour palette, was brightly decorated with guests enjoying beef and turkey plus Christmas cake.

Included in the guests list were some who had been the very volunteers that catered the event in the past.

This annual event continues to be made possible by the dedicated work of district volunteers from various local organisations. 

The driving forces behind the event are now Alice Kingsley, Sarah Kohonen and other younger members of the community who have stepped up to share the responsibility.

A gift of a Lions Christmas cake was presented to each guest. These scrumptious cakes are also available for purchase at selected local businesses or by phoning Pam on 4845 1633.

Gunning Library is running a Fines Feast until Friday, December 16.

You can clear any outstanding library fines that you might have by bringing non-perishable food items into the library – one item for every $5 of fines accrued or part thereof.

Even if you have been good (check with Santa!) and don’t have any fines, feel free to drop off foodstuffs to the library. 

All items received will find their way through selected charities to those in the shire doing it tough over Christmas.

This is a great opportunity to wipe the slate clean and spread the Christmas cheer.  

The Gunning Campdraft for the first time was held over two days on November 19-20 and judged a great success.

There were 676 runs with 800 head of cattle and many riders from all around including Adaminaby, Nimmitabell, Braidwood, Taralga, Wagga Wagga and Sydney.

Grateful thanks go to all sponsors and volunteers including major sponsor, Gunning’s Southern Wool Traders; for supplying cattle – Brent Medway, Richard Steiner, Don and Maddie Guilfoyle, Frank Pickett, Karen Pirotta, Michael Derby and Brett Hart; the O’Brien family for catering and Doug Charnock, cattle carrier.