Hi everyone,

For those who aren’t on facebook, I thought I’d share some of the love from our facebook page…

Once again a fabulous time was had at the annual Orara Valley Fair. Next time you plan a trip to the north coast, plan it for the long weekend in June and you will be able to join in all the fun of an old fashioned country fair.

Junior woodchopping at the Orara Valley Fair

At the end of July, we were saddened to hear of the passing of (Henry) Carl Hoschke, after he reached the age of 100 last December. Carl was the oldest surviving member of our family, and although he was not able to make the reunion, many of his family did. We pass our sincere condolences on to each one of them.

At the beginning of August Ian travelled up to Coffs to spend some time with this loving extended family. Who are we kidding, he came to play in a bridge competition, but luckily for us, he found time to catch up with us as well! Ian has left a few last copies of the book here with us, so please if you’d like to order one let us know. We had a great chance to sit and relax and Doug is already talking about another reunion!

Alex Kingsford-Smith, Josh Hoschke, Diane and Rob Kingsford-Smith, Margaret and Doug Hoschke, Kylie & Tony Hoschke and Ian Hoschke

While he was up here Ian took to the opportunity to donate a copy of his book to the local library, the family history centre and also the newly opened Coffs Harbour Museum. Another worthwhile place to drop in to if you are planning a visit to Coffs.

While I am sounding like a tourist ad for the gorgeous Coffs Coast (I really do love living here!) many of you would have seen the south wall in the local harbour blocked off and under repairs during the reunion. Recently the works were finished and the south wall is once again open to walk along. Many locals are unsure about the wall, it must look like a fortress from the outside, but it offers an amazing view of our harbour and the mountains that our ancestors would have spied as they arrived by land or sea.

We will endeavour to keep the website updated and are in the process of making some changes which will make it easier to use and find the information you need. Hoping everyone is coming out of winter hibernation and enjoying the spring weather, wherever you are!

The link to our facebook page is on the right, please like our page and join in the conversation on facebook. Hope everyone is well, drop by and say hi here or on facebook, til next time 🙂