The Echo - Blackheath to Wentworth Falls

Captain Edward Ranse has served Fire and Rescue NSW and the Blue Mountains community with distinction for the past 38 years. He was appointed as a retained firefighter in 1971 and became Captain of the Katoomba Fire Brigade in 2005. During his career he has directly assisted the local community by responding to many of the major fires and storm recoveries that frequently devastate communities in the Blue Mountains.Over the past 25 years Captain Ranse has been the driving force for local fund raising activities in support of the Burns Unit at The Westmead Children’s Hospital. To date, Captain Ranse has coordinated the raising of over $300,000 for essential medical equipment and for the rehabilitation of children suffering from burns.Captain Ranse is highly respected not only by his peers but also by local emergency services and the community of the Blue Mountains. His career has been long and distinguished and typified by selflessness and a strong commitment to helping others.

The Mountain Opera Chorus

Mon, Mar 7, 2011

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To celebrate the rejuvenation of the iconic Victoria & Albert Guesthouse in Mt. Victoria the Mountain Opera Chorus will present a gala concert including excerpts from Gilbert & Sullivans’ Yeomen of the Guard. The performance will take place in Bertie’s Restaurant at the V & A during the week of the Great Train Weekend in May this year.

The Mountain Opera Chorus is a long established and active group of singers based at Lawson. Performances include opera, operetta and traditional English music, in concert and staged form. They also provide the chorus for the opera productions of “Opera Events”. Most members cannot participate on all occasions, leading busy lives and having other commitments so new singers are always welcomed.

If you enjoy singing, whether you are experienced or a complete newcomer, you are welcome to come along to a rehearsal to see if you would like to join us. Call Ron on 4751 2458. To book for the luncheon call the Victoria & Albert on 4787 1241.

Treasures of Gilbert & Sullivan Coming To Wentworth Falls

Mon, Mar 7, 2011

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(L-R) Ainslea, Anne and Celeste Furnell

The Blue Mountains Musical Society (BMMS) is widely known for staging two top-flight musicals each year at the Springwood Civic Centre. This year, the BMMS is also bringing Gilbert & Sullivan to Wentworth Falls.

“Treasures of G&S” has been conceived by Director and Musical Director Peter Shepherd as a concert-style tribute to four iconic shows: HMS Pinafore, The Gondoliers, The Pirates of Penzance and The Mikado. It will include a full chorus and featured soloists performing the best-loved numbers from each opera, backed by a full orchestra.

“Treasures of G&S” will be performed not only at Springwood (on Saturday 26 March), but also at Wentworth Falls School of Arts, with matinee and evening performances (2pm and 8pm) on Saturday 2nd April.

For all enquiries you can phone 4739 0555. All tickets will be $25 ($20 concession.) Bookings can be made by phone on 8019 0283 or through the BMMS website, http://www.bmms.org.au/.