I have heard a number of compliments on the MidCoast Council's restoration works that have recently been carried out on the iconic Vampire Jet which dominates the streetscape of Bent Street and Central Park, Wingham.

The council received a $10,000 grant from the NSW government and agreed to add $10,000 from their coffers.

The end result shows that it has all been worthwhile. The contractors did a great job which should see this historical asset to Wingham preserved in its location for hopefully another 50-plus years.

Looking spick and span again after a good clean, a new paint job, and other necessary repairs, has ensured the integrity of the memorial.

A huge pat on the back and many thanks for our council's quick response in getting the work done.

Tinonee Public School

Term 2 school holidays began on Friday, July 3, and I am sure all the students, teachers and staff look forward to the break, as they won't need to get up so early in this cold winter weather.

Hopefully the days will be warmer and sunny and folk can get away for a few days' holiday to recharge their energy batteries and return happy and healthy.

The last week of term saw many of the students enjoying the opportunity of wearing their favourite beanies while raising awareness of childhood cancer.

During the holiday break special works will be carried out at the school on the grounds and the buildings - including concreting, removal of dead trees, and plumbing.

A reminder to all the school is out of bounds to everyone out of school hours.

School will resume on Tuesday, July 21, with Monday, July 20, set down as a staff development day.

Congratulations to students Brianna, Rosie, Leah and Tessa who had a lot of fun representing Tinonee School in the Mid-North Coast round of the Kids' Literacy Quiz. They earned fifth place in the region - well done.

A little into Term 3 on Thursday, August 13, Taree High School will hold a meeting in their library at 2pm for parents and carers of children who will enter high school in 2021. More details will be available from the school office.

Canteen supervisor Michelle is still looking for more helpers for Term 3, especially on most days other than Fridays. Even one day in the term would be a great help.

Unexpected visit

We received an unexpected visit from John's cousin Terry Ward and wife Yvonne of Wagga Wagga on Thursday for the weekend. Terry and Yvonne are caravanning in NSW and hoping to be able to cross into Qld at the end of the week to explore that state.

The couple stayed at Wingham Showground and we caught up with them for lunch on Friday and after we showed them around Wingham before catching up with Bob Muxlow. On Saturday they visited Peter and later they joined us at home.

The travellers set off on Sunday, and we hope they will have a safe journey and enjoy this great country of ours.

Tinonee expansion

Tinonee is continuing to grow, with at least five homes under construction or nearing completion in the village, which is great to see.

This leaves only a few vacant blocks and no doubt these will be snatched up and built on. It is certainly different to when John and I came to live in Tinonee soon after we were married in 1974.

There was no kerb and guttering in our street, or sewerage, and a lot of open paddocks, but things have changed for the better and we are happy to stay here.