C2G Walk Celebrates10 Years!
The 96km Cargo to Grenfell (C2G) Walk is celebrating ten incredible years of supporting rural mental health this March.
What initially began as an idea by a few mates looking to challenge themselves and raise money for a local cricket team, has evolved into a significant annual fundraising event for mental health resources in the central west region.
"The event has become an important feature in a lot of peoples calendar and we like to measure its growth by its meaning to the community which has been formed. We have made a lot of adjustments since its early years which we are really proud of," said event organiser Toby Barons.
Over the past 10 years, the event has raised approximately $150,000 with beneficiaries including the Black Dog Institute, Beyond Blue, Rural and Remote Mental Health and now the Headstrong Founda-
tion - which aims to educate and support members of the community through facilitation of workshops and training.
There is a specific sense of community environment and supportive atmosphere around the C2G walk. The event welcomes participants of all abilities and offers support vehicles throughout the event together with checkpoint stops along the way to rehydrate, rest and eat some food.
The 2026 C2G Walk will kick off on Thursday 12 March and will conclude on Saturday 14 March at the Grenfell Country Club. For more information and to register for the event head www.c2gwalk.com.
"We hope we can celebrate this milestone event with as many people as possible. The C2G Walk is more then fundraiser, it brings out the best in people and the larger community," concluded Toby Barons.
Co-event organisers Derek Robinson and Danielle Barons with one of the long standing event volunteers Kelly Frost.
CANOWINDRA SERVICES & CITIZENS CLUB LTD
Gaskill Street, Canowindra NSW 2804
NOTICE OF 54th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
NOTICE is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of The Canowindra Service and Citizens Club Limited will be held in the Club on Sunday 29th March 2026 at 11am. Any member who may desire to submit any motion of query to be considered or dealt with, shall give complete and precise notice in writing to the Secretary by Friday 27th March 2026
TomBeath President EVERYONE WELCOME
CLASSIFIEDS
LAYER PULLETS 20 WEEKS
All Breeds. Delivered Canowindra
Thursday,19 March 2026
Contact Jim 0428 194 105
WINE BARRELS FOR SALE
Half wine barrels $130 each Full wine barrels $250 each Ph: Parkes Brick & Pavers 6862 2253
JOKE of the Week
What do you call a shoe made out of a banana? A slipper.
phone l (02) 6344 1846 web l www.canowindraphoenix.com.au
Street Address: 84 Gaskill St Canowindra 2804
Postal Address: PO Box 203 Canowindra 2804
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EOI's Open For ‘Saving our Superb Parrot’ Project 2026
Mid Lachlan Landcare are now into their final year of funding through the NSW Government’s Saving our Species (SoS) program to carry out on-ground works aimed at protecting and restoring habitat for the Superb Parrot which is listed as vulnerable in NSW.
We are lucky in our region to be able to view this bird quite regularly. They usually arrive in Spring to breed but we are increasingly hearing of populations that are staying in and around Cowra year-round.
This project will assist landholders to plant individually guarded stock proof paddock trees across their farms to improve and restore habitat for the Superb Parrot.
This year Mid Lachlan Landcare are also offering the opportunity on two properties to plant an area with volunteers. They will provide the plants, guards and the volunteers.The planting area will have to already be protected from stock by the landholder.
Many existing scattered paddock trees are more than 100 years old and when they
die, they aren’t being replaced. The value of paddock trees is considerable, and their decline has been identified as a significant threat to woodland habitats as they provide shelter, food and nesting sites for birds, bats, insects and mammals. Paddock trees are also valuable for agricultural productivity by playing a crucial role in managing salinity, improving soil properties, and providing shade for stock.
Priority for project funding will be given to applicants who have not participated in previous ‘Save our Superb Parrot’ paddock tree projects. Sites of known or recorded Superb Parrot sightings and applications where planted trees connect existing paddock trees and/or patches of woodland will also be prioritised.
For further information or to obtain an EOI form, contact Tracee Burke – Mid Lachlan Landcare at midlachlanlandcare@ gmail.comor call 0417 799 425. Expression of interest forms must be returned by 16 March 2026.
Celebrating 90 Years!
Family and friends recently celebrated the 90th Birthday of Barry Gavin at the Canowindra Services Club on Saturday 21 February. The joyful occasion was filled with love, laughter, and heartfelt appreciation for a remarkable life and the many memories shared over nine decades. A truly special celebration for a very special man.
Many happy rertuns to Barry Gavin on his 90th birthday.
SNIPPETS... QUESTION of the week
Get Your Gloves On: Clean Up Australia Day returns this Sunday 1 March 2026, with individuals, families, schools, and community groups across the country being called on to join a Clean Up event near them or register their own to be part of Australia’s largest environmental movement. Pip Kiernan, Chair of Clean Up Australia said: “Our nation's litter disposal and recycling challenges are continuously shifting but the one thing we know for certain, is that too much litter is still making its way into our streets, parks, bushlands and waterways.” More information at: www.cleanup.org.au
Entries Now Open For The 2026 Cabonne Acquisitive Art Prize: The 2026 Annual Cabonne Acquisitive Art Prize showcases some of the region's best artists. Entry forms are available from Molong Library, Cabonne Council and Arts Council Cabonne. Works must be submitted at the Cabonne Community Centre on 15,17 and 19 June 2026 during Molong Library hours. For more information please contact Libby Oldham or Arts Council Cabonne Inc. on Facebook.
Free Feed And Water Testing: Dry conditions can place extreme pressure on livestock – now is the time to get your livestock nutrition and water quality on track with free testing through Local Land Services. Prepaid feed tests are available and cover hay, pasture, grain and silage. Feed testing helps you plan accurate feed budgets, check nutritional value and avoid wasting money on poor-quality products. To find out about the free test kits, get in touch with a member of the LLS team on 1300 795 299.
Save The Date For Moyne Fete: The Moyne Fete will be held on Saturday 18 April from 9am – 2pm.
Cabonne Seniors Expo: Join Cabonne Council for a fun and informative day exploring the wide range of aged care services available in our region. Whether you’re looking for support options, planning for the future, or simply curious, the Expo has something for everyone. It’s a great opportunity to connect, ask questions and discover what’s on offer - everyone is welcome! The Expo will be held at Cabonne Community Centre, Molong on Wednesday, 25 March. Doors open at 10am. Registrations essential for catering. Please RSVP by Friday, 13 March by calling Cabonne Home Support on 6344 1199 or emailing chs@cabonne.nsw.gov.au.
Find out more at: www.cabonne.nsw.gov.au/Recreation/ Whats-On/Cabonne-Seniors-Expo
Become A Junior Python In 2026
The Canowindra Junior Pythons are getting ready for an exciting 2026 Season!
The Club will hold a Come and Try Day this Sunday, 1 March at the Rugby Club House / Oval. It will be a fun filled day, jam packed with exciting drills, team games and water activities for the kids and parents to enjoy.
The Junior Pythons are looking for players across all age groups - U6, U8, U10 and U12. So head along this Sunday from 11am-2pm to learn some new skills and make some new friends.
The Club will also hold its AGM at the conclusion of the Come and Try Day - all are welcome to attend as all positions will be vacant.
What is your favourite sport to watch at the Winter Olympics?
Ratepayers are reminded that the due date for payment of the 3rd Instalment of 2025/2026 rates is Saturday 28th February 2026.
Do your part to Clean Up Australia this Sunday, 1 March.
Ivy: Ice Hockey.
Sharlie: Figure Skating.
Victoria D: Luge
Water In Demand As Drought Tightens Grip Across Southern Australia
While floods, bushfires, and cyclones have dominated recent headlines, drought remains a pressing concern for farming families across Australia. Rural Aid has re
Rural Aid has received a surge in requests for water tanks and water deliveries in 2026.
Show Your Support For Our Regional Neighoubours And Join The Parkes Farmers March Against The Incinerator
A march is being organised for this Saturday by local farmers and members of the Parkes community who are concerned about the long-term future of our agricultural region if a proposed Energy from Waste facility goes ahead in Parkes.
Parkes farmer Sharon Woods “This land is more than just a business, it is our home, our history, and our children’s future. Our livelihoods, like those of so many farming families across this district, depend entirely on the health of our soil, our water, our market access and our community. This march is about protecting the integrity, productivity and future of our region.”
Mayor Neil Westcott "As the Mayor of Parkes Shire and as a farmer in our Shire, I fully support the march taking place this Saturday.
"There is no doubt about the anxiety this issue has caused among our rural con-
stituents. The weekend will be a strong display of solidarity across all levels of government, sending a clear message that Parkes is not the place for an Energy from Waste facility.”
Phil Donato MP will also be attending the march, saying “The Parkes community don’t want this facility in their backyard. If it’s not good enough to go in Sydney, then it’s not good enough to be forced onto Parkes and other regional communities. Sydney should be responsible for managing its own waste.“
You can show your support for our regional neighbours this Saturday 28 February at 9.30am to march from Sir Henry Parkes Statue to Cooke Park. Speakers on the day will be Sharon Woods - Local Farmer, Philip Donato MP, Rebecca Reardon - NSW Farmers and Cr Joy Paddison.
A Busy Start To The Year At Moyne
Moyne keeps on improving with the renovations to Cooinda House Memory Support Unit almost completed. The unit has been transformed with new garden areas, wallpaper in the hallways and new decorative entrances to each resident’s room as well as new stimulating and enjoyable activities such as garden club, cooking and baby doll therapy to name a few. Raised garden beds are currently being added to the garden for winter veggies and a sensory garden.
The Red Square activity room is about to be renovated which we are all excited for. New items have been purchased for around the facility, including the very popular porch swing which has been added to the front veranda. Another will be purchased for the other side of the veranda in coming weeks at resident’s request.
New activities have been implemented, some of which have been requested by residents and have been so much fun. Moyne now have three full time lifestyle team members which is bringing fun and purpose to all.
If you have not been to Moyne in a while, why not pop out and visit us. The Cafe is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9am – 3pm if you feel like a cuppa while you are there.
Patchy Mobile Services An Ongoing Concern
Fed up farmers and families facing poor regional, rural and remote mobile services are being encouraged to keep complaining.
The latest report from the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman (TIO) revealed an increase in complaints in NSW, with almost a quarter coming from regional areas.
Sarah Thompson from the NSW Farmers Rural Affairs Committee said the stats reflected what farmers were saying.
“A lot of people are fairly fed up with complaining about this long-running issue, and it’s clear enough isn’t being done to fix the problem,” Mrs Thompson said.
“I agree with Telecommunications Indus-
try Ombudsman Cynthia Gebert when she says consumers don’t see phone and internet connectivity as optional anymore, these are vital not only for business and education but the basics of everyday life.
“We’re encouraging people who aren’t satisfied with their service or the resolutions from their providers to go to the TIO to try and get a better outcome and make sure the issues are reported on.”
For small businesses, complaints about internet services increased 16.1 per cent to 483 complaints, with increases noted for slow data speed, up 17.6 per cent to 234 complaints, and no phone or internet service, up 17 per cent to 476 complaints.
In December 2025, NSW Farmers organised multiple regional and rural visits from the TIO, offering communities a chance to raise connectivity concerns and learn about services. Attendees reported concerns about their ability to call emergency services, with many people citing previous failures, and that rural and regional Australians felt forgotten and tired of complaining, particularly since unreliable mobile connectivity had become a persistent issue since the 3G shutdown.
The TIO report can be found at https:// www.tio.com.au/sites/default/files/2026-02/ TIO_Q2_Complaints_data_insights_report_2026.pdf
A powerful message from Parkes Farmers can be seen on the Newell Highway as you are entering Parkes, and the message is very clear, Parkes does not want to be Sydney's dumping ground.
The new porch swing is very popular with residents.
WHAT’S On
26 Feb Canowindra Bowling Club Thursday afternoon social bowls from 2pm.
26 Feb Canowindra Services Club Thursday Members Badge Draw $2,000. Happy hour 5 - 7pm.
27 Feb Canowindra Bowls Club Friday badge draw $2,500 up for grabs.
27 Feb Canowindra Services Club Friday Night Meat Raffles 7pm to 8.30pm plus Members Badge Draw. 1st draw $1,200, 2nd draw $1,000, 3rd draw $600. Happy hour 5 - 7pm.
1 Mar Canowindra Junior Pythons Come and Try Day11am - 2pm at the Rugby Club House / Oval. The Junior Pythons are looking for players across all age groups - U6, U8, U10 and U12.
1 Mar Canowindra Bowls Club Sunday badge draw $650 up for grabs. Major Jackpot at 7pm.
4 Mar Canowindra Bowls Club Wednesday badge draw $750 up for grabs.
25 Mar Cabonne Seniors Expo: Cabonne Community Centre, Molong, doors open at 10am. Registrations essential for catering by Friday, 13 March by calling Cabonne Home Support on 6344 1199 or chs@cabonne.nsw.gov.au.
18 Apr The Moyne Fete will be held from 9am – 2pm.
Ongoing Bingo 12:30pm Tuesday, Canowindra Services Club, refreshments provided. Ongoing Moorbel Markets first Saturday of the month, 9am - 12.30pm at Moorbel Hall. Great variety of stalls, BBQ and morning tea. To book a stall or for information call Christine 6344 2916.
Ongoing Canowindra Food Basket at the Canowindra Connections Centre, Blatchford St. Winter hours: 2 to 4pm Thursday, 9.30-11.30 Friday morning Summer DST: 2 to 4pm Thursday, 9.00 - 11 Friday morning
Ongoing Uniting Flood Recovery Program Community Engagement Program: Every Wednesday at Canowindra Hotel 12:30pm - 3pm – open to all ages. Relax, connect and have fun, with meaningful conversations. 1800 574 007.
Ongoing Canowindra Community Choir: Meets every Saturday At Delice Coffee Shop at 2pm. Come along and join us, all welcome.
Ongoing Narcotics Anonymous meeting at 4pm every Saturday, Orana House 32 Ferguson St Canowindra.
Ongoing Canowindra@home meet on the second Wednesday of the month at the Canowindra Bowling Club from 6pm.
Ongoing Bingo at the Services Club every Tuesday at 12.30pm
Ongoing Dance Practice: New Vogue and Social Dance Group every Tuesday at Canowindra Services Club, 1- 3pm, $5 pp. Phone Gail 0417 747 338.
Ongoing The Adult Survivors of Child Abuse - Cowra Support Group meets on the 1st Friday of each month from 12:30 to 14:30 and is open to survivors of all communities. All details online via: heal.itmatters.com.au. Alternatively, call Pascale, the facilitator, on 0458 698 460.
Ongoing Meat raffles at the Canowindra Golf Club. Every Saturday from 6pm.
Ongoing Canowindra Progress Association meeting third Monday of the month. All welcome. 6pm at the Canowindra Services Club.
Ongoing Bingo at the Bowlo every Thursday at 11am.
Ongoing CWA Friendship Morning Tea is held every second Monday of the month at 10.30am at CWA Hall.
Ongoing CWA Meeting Canowindra CWA Branch meet on the 4th Thursday of every month at 6.30pm at the CWA Hall in Blatchford Street.
CRypTIC ClUEs
ACROSS
1 Use public relations techniques as a kind of fertiliser? (5)
4 He died around a hundred. We were all pretty cut up (5)
7 Completely bowled over by whomever! Led astray! (11)
9 Weaken with a faux-pas? (3)
10 Can a political leader help being rewarded? (4)
12 In sport it’s nothing, but in life it’s everything (4)
13 The sort of parents who might be found involved in pyramid schemes, perhaps (7)
14 David is so keen, he’s really lost his head (4)
15 Take part of the fish right away from the cooker (4)
17 Tuberculosis can take you in the bath (3)
19 Sounds like deceptive powers lead to losses (11)
20 Retail customer interested in English red stone arrangement (5)
QUIZ
1 Who will represent Australia in this year’s Eurovision contest?
2 Which celebrated boxer was born Walker Smith Jr.?
3 In what year did The Beatles release their final album Let It Be?
4 Which river makes up part of the border between Thailand and Myanmar?
5 Pebbles is the daughter of which animated family?
6 Tallinn is the capital of which northern European country?
7 Who starred as the titular character in the 1994 western Maverick?
8 Mount Woodroffe is the highest point in which Australian state or territory?
9 True or false: the Red panda is native to Africa?
10 How many points is the letter D worth in a game of Scrabble?
Form at least one nine letter word from the given letters and as many other words as possible of four or more letters. Each word must contain the letter in the central circle. Simple plurals, formed by adding “s” are not counted as extra words. No prefixes or suffixes. Reference: The Macquarie Concise Dictionary.
How to play sudoku: You are given a 9x9 grid which has been divided up into nine 3x3 boxes. The aim of the game is very simple: to fill each row, column and 3x3 box with the numbers from 1 to 9 inclusive.
21 Joins renovated clay ovens (5) DOWN
1 Dig up a good story? (5)
2 Introductory way to suffer pain merrily? (11)
3 Moves on the water for arguments’ sake (4)
4 Ease in the shillings and pence a long way down (4)
5 I’m so on topic with makeup! (11)
6 Avoid the dog of French extraction (5)
8 It is detrimental to drink rum half prepared (7)
11 Little Sister, I left the druids a faulty one (3)
12 Pull this part of the journey for a joke (3)
14 Off-the-cuff promotion precedes the little party politician (2-3)
16 Cellulose seems to hide when she sheds weight (5)
17 Tire out after a row (4)
18 Poster demanding money? (4)
QUICk ClUEs
SPORT REPORTS
WOMEN' BOWLS
Two Minor Singles matches were played on Tuesday, 24 February. Joyce Boland defeated Liz Thornberry 25-7 and Jessie Graves defeated Therese Carroll 25-22.
Two Social games were also played. Jeanette Wheeldon, Kayleen Doyle and Christine Pickard defeated Cierwen Jones playing two positions and Sandy McDonald 22-10. Sue Slattery and Libby Balcombe defeated Pauline Carpenter and Sharon Wynn 21-12.
MEN'S BOWLS
In the pennant last week the 6s had very good victory over Parkes Railway 82/49. All teams had a good win which gave them a 10/0.
The 7s almost had an impressive win against Manildra. On the 58 end the sides were 62/62 all, but Manildra gained 6/2 over the next five ends to get a victory 9/1.
This week Canowindra 6s go to Caragabal and the 7s head to Cowra.
In the club singles matches, Eryn defeated Jamie Stewart in a good performance. Crock had a close victory over Jamie Stewart 25/23. Jamie had a handy lead early and crock fought back to win. It is promising to see all first round singles nearing completion, and will be good to get the few remaining games finished.
We have the Cheesy Makin Golf and Bowls games this Saturday 28 February. Please meet at the Canowindra Golf Club at 9am for registration. There is also a sheet on the board.
Twilight bowls will be played this Friday and Thursday afternoons.
Badge draws this week are Wednesday $750, Friday $2,500 and Sunday $650.
Renewed Mental Health Assistance For Small Business Owners
Beyond Blue has welcomed the Federal Government’s decision to continue its support of the small business community granting a one-year extension of the successful NewAccess for Small Business Owners (NASBO) service to 30 June 2027.
Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman AO said the Government’s decision showed clear understanding of the mental health pressures experienced by small business owners.
“Small business owners often carry enormous responsibility, and the emotional and financial pressures can be relentless. This continued support shows the Government recognises those challenges and values the wellbeing of the people who keep our communities and local economies moving,” Ms Harman said.
“NASBO gives business owners a chance to pause, reflect and learn strategies that help them manage stress and stay focused. It’s flexible, it’s practical, and it’s designed specifically for the small business environment.”
As an evidence-based mental health service, NASBO has achieved consistently strong results: 76 per cent of small business owners who participated showed clinically significant improvement in their symptoms of anxiety and/or depression, more than 91 per cent felt more productive and better able to address future business challenges, and nearly 96 per cent felt better able to manage mental health challenges when they arose.
NASBO support is available to small business owners nationally from 8am to 8pm. It uses evidence-based low-intensity cognitive behavioural therapy and offers small business owners up to six sessions and two follow-up sessions, working with a specialist coach with small business experience. Participation is free, confidential and no GP referral is required.
Small business owners who are interested to know more can visit www.beyondblue. org.au/get-support/newaccess-mentalhealth-coaching/small-business-owners or call 03 9250 8305.
Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman AO