Not quite a local… but working on it!
After nearly seven years living first in Clarence Town and now Glen William, I’ve come to realise two things: one, Dungog Shire is massive – almost nine times the size of Newcastle – and two, no matter how many working bees I turn up to, I won’t be considered a true local until I’m at least third generation (and even then, only maybe).
But here’s the thing – I’ve never felt more at home.
This part of the world continues to surprise me with its beauty, its bush humour, and most of all, its people. From sausage sizzles and trivia nights to roadside chats and last-minute sheep lambing (don’t ask), community life here is alive and well – and I’ve made more friends in seven years than I did in the decade before.
Dungog Shire may only have about 9,000 people – that’s just 19% the population of Newcastle – but it stretches across 18 towns and villages. Driving across it can take over an hour, especially if you get stuck behind a tractor/cattle muster or stop to admire the view (both likely).
And while we may not have skyscrapers or beaches, we’ve got big skies, big hearts, and conversations that last longer than your phone battery.
So whether you’ve been here for generations or just rolled into town, I hope The Sentinel gives you a sense of the local heartbeat. Because here, it’s not about how long you’ve lived in the shire – it’s about how willing you are to show up.
If you’ve got a community event or newsworthy tidbit to share, I’d love to hear about it! Drop me a line at thesentinel2321@gmail.com
Until next edition x Cathy Schneider
