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Music video workshop inspires future stars

FULL STOR Y

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1 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 25 January 2024

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Capturing the creative capability of Coona kids A two-day music and video workshop in Coonabarabran turned a group of 8-20 year olds into a “powerful” force of courage and talent.

by GEORGIA SPENCE Twenty teenagers and kids ranging in ages from 8-20 participated in the school - hol iday event and were accompanied by eight volunteers.

O rg a n i sed th ro ug h the 2357 Development Group, the workshops were led by lead singer of Chocolate Star fish, Adam Thompson, under his personal development program – MusoMagic.

MusoMagic was developed to provide

children and teenagers with song and creativity workshops.

Mr Thompson explained how the workshops immerse attendees, creating an o p p o r t u n i t y to l e a r n more about themselves and their peers.

“Ever yone commits to every aspect. With all that collaboration and energy it is a truly shared experienced and one they are proud to be a part of,” Mr Thompson said. “ C re a t i v i t y, a t

its essence, is self exploration. Opening up the imagination allows for introspective play.

Even as adults we need play.

“The workshops break the ways in which society wants to pigeon hole us and keeps us curious.”

Held during the school summer holidays, the first day of the workshop involved the writing and creation of lyrics.

T h e g r o u p c o l l a b o r a t e d , embodying the essence of each other and

thei r connection to community.

“Our power lives here”, was a key line to the song named Our Endless Power.

Each individual had the opportunity to sing and record the song, which was then layered and mastered overnight th ro ug h co n n ect i o n s from MusoMagic.

A l t h o u g h complications arose due to a blackout, the song was a success.

Many attendees said they were ner vous at

the beg i nni ng of the workshop, however, by the second day, they felt connected to one another.

Filming the music video was the project o n t h e s e c o n d d a y, with the team shooting scenes across various iconic spots throughout Coonabarabran.

C o m m u n i t y D e v e l o p m e n t coordinator of the 2357 Group, Vivian Evans said boys and girls who had never danced before, danced.

She explained how they sung for preschoolers in the l i b r a r y d u r i n g s to r y time and built valuable connections to each other and aspects of their community.

Vo l u nte e r s a n d organisers were committed to the process, dancing in the rain to guide the group, however, the stars of the music video were kept dry.

The song was f i rst heard by par ticipants l i ve o n A B C We s te r n Pla i ns rad io, and the music video was shown to parents on the third day.

Many who attended the showing, if not all, highlighted how proud they were of the group and felt fortunate to be a pa r t of a town l i ke Coonabarabran.

M r s E va n s sa i d th e o u tco m e wa s b et te r than she cou ld have imagined.

“The aim of the 2357 Development Group is to connect community and make a difference.

This just nailed it,” Mrs Evans said.

“It’s incredible how eve r yone connected to b r ing it to fr uition.

MusoMagic and the team went above and

beyond especially with plane delays and black outs.

“It was great to see the kids overcome their fears and the older kids naturally supported the younger ones.”

Teenage participant Alec De Watt said he was inspired by the program and plans to write more songs.

Championed by the Coonabarabran Local Aboriginal Land Council (L ALC), the wor k shop was made possible th rough the Regional Yo u t h H o l i d a y B re a k Prog ram fo r Summer/ Autumn.

The grant will continue into the autumn school holidays.

“It is a really powerful year for Coona youth,” Mrs Evans said.

Cat Facchi, a volunteer w ith the program, was moved by the experience.

“We have seen 20 kids and teenagers start off as individuals,” she said. “ To d a y, w e s a y goodbye as a family, or maybe – see you later!”

The music video will again be featured at an upcoming blow-up cinema event, supported by 2357 Development Group and LALC.

Hot paws: keep your pets safe With soaring temperatures and more animals presenting to the pound with burnt paws, it is important for dog owners to be aware of the dangers of the heat.

Music video time in Coonabarabran’s main street.

Students participating in the music video workshop also filmed ‘Our Power Lives’ at Storytime in the Coonabarabran Library.

“It has been disheartening the nu m b e r o f a n i m a l s coming into Council’s pound with burnt paws due to the sheer heat of the ground they are roaming a round on,” s a id Wa r r u m bu n g le Shire Council mayor, Cr Ambrose Doolan.

“If you cannot walk on the road in bare feet because it is too hot and will burn your feet, then it will also burn your pets’ feet. Their paws are sensitive and can easily succumb to being burnt.”

Even though a pets’ paws may be ready to take on the toughest terrains, they are surprisingly vulnerable to burns, particularly in the summer months when asphalt and

• ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY •

The Coonabarabran Times acknowledges and pays respect to the Gamilaraay people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live and work, and pay our respects to Elders both past and present.

We extend that respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the country and support the continuation of their cultural, spiritual and educational practices.

2 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 25 January 2024

concrete footpaths become heated. Severe burns, as well as being very painful for your dog, take a long time to heal and can also i n c r e a s e y o u r d o g ’s risk of developing an infection.

Symptoms to look out for in animals who may have burnt paws are: l i mpi ng or la meness t h at s h i f t s b et we en legs, relucta nce t o walk, licking or chewing t hei r paws , pat chy discolouration of the paw pads, blistered paw pads and/or peeling paw pads, or flaps of skin.

I f y o u n o t i c e a ny of t he s e sig n s , it i s important to have them che cked by you r vet rather than assuming the cause.

Australia Day: what’s on?

As well as free pool entry across the Warrumbungle Shire, there are a number of events taking place this Friday, 26 January as part of Australia Day celebrations.

Binnaway Award Ceremony and barbecue breakfast – 7.00am, Len Guy Park.

Bi n naway B owl i ng Club – 3.00pm yabbie races and market stalls, 4.00-8.00pm Ballz n All live, 6.00pm – Twilight Bowls, 8.00pm – meat raffles, treasure chest and members’ draw.

Baradine B a r ad i ne Ho spit a l Auxiliary morning tea –10 . 3 0 a m , B a r ad i ne Memorial Hall.

Awa r d C er emony – 11.0 0am, Baradine Memorial Hall.

Free luncheon (reservations essential) – 12.30pm, Baradine Memorial Hall.

Coonabarabran Coonabarabran B owl i n g C lu b , f r om 10am – Australia Day bowls competition.

Coonabarabran Golf Club, from 2 .3 0pm – slip n slide, barbecue, slu sh ie s a nd ga me s , from 3.00pm – live music from Sarah Sleete.

C i t i z e n s h i p C eremony – 6 .0 0 pm,

C o on aba r abr a n G ol f Club.

Award Ceremony – 6.30pm, Coonabarabran Golf Club.

Dunedoo Award Ceremony and barbecue lunch – 12.00 noon, Dunedoo Sporting Club.

Dunedoo Pool party with snow cones and

3 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 25 January 2024

i n f latables – f rom 3.00pm.

Coolah Award Ceremony – 5.00pm, Bowen Oval.

Free tennis – 10.00am-11.30pm.

Free golf – 11.30am2.00pm, free barbecue lunch for all.

F ree law n bowls – 2.00pm-4.00pm.

Service St Andrew’s A n g l ic a n C hu r ch – 4.00pm-4.50pm.

Thanksgiving Service – 4.00pm, The Octagon, St Andrew’s Church.

Charity 20/20 cricket match – 6.00pm, and barbecue dinner (free sausage sandwich for the kids).

Music at the Top

P ub – f r om 8 .0 0 pm.

Po ol op en w it h new inflatables for fun.

Mendooran Award Ceremony and barbecue breakfast – 7. 3 0 a m , M e n d o o r a n Me ch a n ic s I n st it ut e Hall.

Mendooran Bowling Club – Barefoot Bowls and lunch.

IN FOCUS: AUSTRALIA DAY MERCHANDISE

An act of reconciliation or rebellion?

Woolworths will not be selling Australia Day-themed products, stating the decision was due to a decline in demand for the merchandise.

by GEORGIA SPENCE Federal Opposition Leader, Peter Dutton has since urged consumers to boycott the supermarket giant, dividing Australians and creating an erratic debate on culture.

Mr Dutton believes major corporations should not align themselves with political and social opinions.

Recently, Woolworths had noted a decline in sales regarding Australia Day merchandise. This could be attributed to the decline in numbers of those who celebrate Australia Day, according to a 2022 poll provided by the BBC. Last year, Woolworths launched its new Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), detailing its commitment to First Nation team members and communities.

The RAP set goals in service of reconciliation and recognised their role as a retailer with an

“opportunity to make a difference”.

The Bureau of Statistics showed Coonabarabran encompassed an Indigenous population of 10 per cent in 2023.

The Indigenous population of the town is higher than metropolitan areas, indicating the retailer’s decision could be supported more in rural areas.

Founding member of Yarn Support Connect, Kodi Brady, said he supported Woolworths’ decision and said First Nation people had been here for thousands of years, before the date for Australia Day existed.

He explained how First Nation people have traditions that date back over 60,000 years.

“Captain Cook discovered Australia in April 1770 – not this other date that’s only been a national holiday since 1994,” Mr Brady said.

“It is great to see larger companies take a social

stand. Everything sold is mainly single-use plastic, made in China.

“If people actually cared about their country, they wouldn’t be supporting the unnecessary production of these mass-produced items – especially when it’s not Australian made.”

Previous Australia Days have raised the question of colonialism and whether or not the day supported injustices made under the practice.

Oxford Dictionary states ‘colonialism’ is the act of acquiring full or partial control over another country, occupying it with settlers and exploiting the land economically.

In recent years, some Indigenous communities have coined ‘Australia Day’ as ‘Invasion Day’, due to the colonial practices evolved by British settlers from 1788 and onwards.

For many First Nations people, the day is

not a celebration for Indigenous communities, r a t h e r i t is a da y t o acknowledge Indigenous history and the ongoing impact of colonisation.

Some would argue the day provides an opportunity to reflect on what Australia has become, despite its history.

“After the outcome of The Voice, the population questioned if anything has changed,” Mr Brady said.

“You’d think a nation with such rich cultural history could recognise and respect their First Nation people and, at the very least, change the date!”

In 2023, Kmart made headlines when it announced the discontinuation of selling themed products.

Kmart stated that they offer year-round products showcasing Australian designs and educational c o n t e n t . Wo o l w o r t h s also acknowledged

having year-round items, including the sale of the Australian flag.

Coles and IGA retailers, on the other hand, will both maintain a limited selection of merchandise for Australia Day. Locally, Crazy Sam’s

Coonabarabran store continues to sell Australia Day merchandise.

S t o r e m a n a g e r, Georgia Woodward said it was something they had always done and had not noticed sales differ from other years.

“It has never been our biggest seller,” Ms Woodward said.

“There have been people commenting positively about it and people commenting negatively - we remain impartial.”

YOUR SAY: Do you think Woolworths should be selling Australia Day merchandise?

Scott Baird: It is mostly just plastic waste anyway. It just goes into landfill and that is going to be a problem for our children, less so for us. We are probably in support of Woolworths on that.

Paula Brookfield: I think it is wrong. They have gone down the political road and are not looking after the people. I worked at Woollies for 20 years - this is the only year they have not had it and it is a bit of a shock.

Grace Hopkins and Kyanna Cox: We reckon it’s a bad thing. We celebrate Australia Day and we like having the option to buy Australia Day merchandise. We both have great memories of using the merchandise with family like the tattoos and flags.

Louisa Mathews: Crazy’s is selling quite a bit. Why don’t they sell much - we are in Australia. Sucks the town isn’t putting up much for it too.

4 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 25 January 2024

Joey Riley: It is probably a good thing they’re not selling it I reckon.

Shirlenne Fulton: All this merchandise is not what the day is about. It is just people overseas making money. It should be about the coming together of people, not this plastic stuff and t-shirts.

Wasting away: illegal dumping stacks up Piles of waste, illegally dumped, have recently been reported by the community throughout the Shire. Sadly, most of the rubbish could have been sent to a Council tip for free.

by GEORGIA SPENCE Waste management is important to the environment and community, as it lowers the risk of toxic contamination and the spread of pathogens in the atmosphere and water.

Improper handling of waste such as illegal dumping and burning, pose a threat to individuals and animals.

Potential negative health effects include physical hazards in which animals and children can be trapped, broken glass and sharp metals.

Discarded tyres or other objects can collect still water, providing breeding areas for potentially virus-holding mosquitos, while tyres lit on fire can emit toxic smoke.

Household garbage can attract rodents and piles of waste generally spoil the aesthetic appeal of a community or area.

All these potential risks have the probability to decrease community quality of life, lower property values and negatively affect tourism.

The clean up can also be costly for Council.

A spokesperson from Warrumbungle Shire Council said it was disappointing how most of the dumped waste, could have been taken to the tip, free of charge.

“Illegal dumping costs Council and its ratepayers thousands of dollars each year and is a blight on our landscape,” the spokesperson said “Staff time is used to investigate instances of illegal dumping of rubbish, ensuring that there is no asbestos or contaminated waste.

“If there is asbestos, then a suitablyqualified removalist is required to undertake the removal of the rubbish

and transfer it to the Coonabarabran Landfill site.”

Having once worked at the recycle centre, retiree Trevor Rice understands the importance of disposing of waste properly.

While travelling along Gunnedah Road towards his farm, Mr Rice observed a stack protruding through the trees.

On closer examination he realised it was a big pile of rubbish that had been dumped and included mattresses, blankets, tyres, clothes and steel.

“The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) can fine you a lot of money. Talking thousands!” Mr Rice said.

“Nothing has been done about this pile yet, more just keeps getting added. It’s not nice to look at.

“People generally dump waste because they can’t afford the tip. But, nothing is advertised about what is and what isn’t free at the tip.”

Tipping fees for the Warrumbungle Shire can be found through Council’s website.

Council has said it provides a free kerb-side pick up of hard rubbish every two years.

This was dependent on whether or not Council could secure a contractor to undertake the collection.

The next hard-waste collection will likely commence towards the end of 2024.

Illegal waste dumping can be reported to the EPA via their phone – 131 555, or through its website.

Report Illegal Dumping (RID) Online is also an online platform to report illegal waste. RID Online requires a photo for relevant authorities to investigate.

Waste transfer station fees and charges FREE • Refrigerators, freezer and air conditioning units without gas • E-waste eg. computers, televisions • Waste motor oil • Household green waste • Recyclables and 1 x 240-litre wheelie bin • Scrap steel

COSTS • • • •

Car/Motorcycle tyres – $25 each Heavy truck tyres – $60.50 each Mattresses – $25 Refrigerators, freezers and air conditioning units containing refrigerant gases – $100.50 • Building and demolition waste – $34 per cubic metre • Additional 240-litre wheelie bin – $11

Illegal waste dumped near the Oxley Highway, north-east of Coonabarabran.

Thinking of becoming a councillor?

Are you passionate about what happens in your local community? Take the opportunity to have an impact on your community by standing to become a councillor with Warrumbungle Shire.

In September 2024, the election of a new Warrumbungle Shire Council will take place, and residents are urged to start thinking now about their involvement in the process.

Warrumbungle Shire covers over 12,000km2 and is home to about 9300 residents. Council itself employs around 200 staff and has an annual budget of over $50 million.

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Being a councillor is an important role and a g r e at opp or t u n it y to make a difference.

Councils are responsible for making significant decisions that have a far-reaching impact on their community.

“Becoming a councillor is a great opportunity to get involved in the l o c a l c o m mu n i t y, ” s a id Wa r r u m bu n g l e Shire Council mayor, counci l lor A mbrose

Doolan. “ I f you h ave b e en thinking about becoming a councillor, now is the time to put your hand up to represent your local community. “ C om mu n it ie s g e t the best outcomes f rom C ou nci l when their diverse nature is represented to give a range of perspectives and experience.”

Nominations to stand in the local government

elections will be received by the NSW Electoral Commission in August 2024.

Before then, the Office of Local Government and Electoral Commission websites will contain an array of information for candidates and the Electoral Commission will also host webinars for interested parties to gain further knowledge about being a councillor.

Picture this...

and this!

The Real Country Strategic Project – a joint intitiative from Warrumbungle, Coonamble and Gilgandra Shire Councils – has presented its draft strategy and concepts of the Castlereagh River Infrastructure elements.

At the heart of this strategy is a commitment to sustainable tourism that celebrates the region’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and the enduring spirit of its communities.

The document outlines potential projects that could harness these concepts, proposing a new river’s edge activation w ith acoustic treatments in Coonaba rab ran,

adjacent to the Mary Jane Cain Bridge (top image) and a new riverfront amphitheatre (bottom image).

Wa r r umbungle Shi re Counci l mayor, Cr Ambrose Doolan, said the collaboration represented a significant milestone in the region’s development.

“It is an opportunity to showcase the potential of our region and

6 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 25 January 2024

focus on enhancing our visito r ex per ience, p romoting the ‘real countr y’ exper ience, and suppor ting economic initiatives and local infrastructure projects,” Cr Doolan said.

The Real Country Strategic Project has been a multi -year journey, bringing together the expertise and dedication of the three Councils to

shape the future of our communities for locals and visitors alike.

Cr Doolan said the project was a reflection of our shared values and goals.

“It is an exciting step forward in showcasing the potential of our region,” he said.

“We invite you to participate in the online exhibition where you can

explore project documents and provide valuable feedback.

“We value your perspective and input is vital in ensuring that our plans reflect the aspirations of our residents.”

To v i ew th e co n cept s, d raf t documents and have your say, visit: http://tinyurl.com/visitrealcountry

Narrabri Gas Project faces delay While it remains unknown what impact the Duck Creek bushfire in the Pilliga Forest has had on infrastructure at the Narrabri Gas Project, the latest Santos Investor Report has delayed the contentious project another year, with a final investment decision to be made in 2025.

by GEORGIA SPENCE While those opposed to the project are not breathing a sigh of relief just yet, they say the news is valued.

Since 2012 , the Narrabri Gas Project has th reat ened the largest temperate woodland in NSW - the Pilliga.

The proposed 3.5-billion-dollar project would see 850 gas wells, f r om mor e t h a n 4 2 5 well-pad sites, covering 95,000 hectares.

If the project continues, Santos will mine for gas and various m i nera ls for 2 0 -2 5 years.

A d ay befor e t he announcement of the Santos delay, the Federa l G over n ment made a decision to reassess the Hunter Gas Pipeline.

T he pipel i ne was approved, connecting the c or p orat ion’s projects from a gas hub in Queensland, to the Narrabri Project.

T he G overnment made a decision to reassess the pipel i ne due to Commonwealth env i ronmenta l a nd historical laws.

T his could be a potential blow to Santos, alongside the G omeroi nation’s efforts to reclaim Native T it le a nd f a i lu r e o f the proposed gas-fed industrial precinct for Narrabri.

R o s em a r y Va s s , a lobby i st aga i n st t he Santos projects, said the pipeline has a significant impact on biodiversity, with the original Government statement not considering the destruction of endangered and p r o t e c t e d f l o r a a nd fauna. “ T h e r e h a s been strong resistance to the Hunter Gas Pipeline from landowners and communities affected,” Mrs Vass said.

“Santos has been able to reach very few access ag reements f rom the hundreds of landowners affected throughout the Hunter, and into the Liverpool Plains and

beyond.”

Recently, a decision was made to scrap a proposed gas-f ired industrial precinct in Narrabri.

T he f a i lu r e of t he Specia l Activation P r e c i n c t ( S A P ) n ow leaves Santos with only one option to transport P illiga gas to the ma rket - the Hu nt er Gas Pipeline.

S a n t o s h a s been anticipating confirmation for drilling, and the prolonged wait may result in significant costs for the gas giants.

Lobbyists are optimistic that the project might lose its urgency.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e ex trac t ion est i mat es for t he pr oje c t h ave been revised downward f r om 2 0 0 t e r aj ou le s a d ay t o 1 5 0 . T h i s adjustment lends credence to speculations that the P i l l iga may lack sufficient gas to me et t he pr ev iou s ly suggested 50% of the state’s demand.

The appeal towards the Native Title Tribunal remains in question, as conclusive judgments are yet to be reached.

Lodged by the Pilliga’s traditional owners, the G omer oi , the appe a l argued climate change and cultural concerns.

T he T r ibunal will decide if the benefits of gas outweigh these concerns.

Gomeroi woman, Suellyn Tighe, said she remains positive and their arguments to the Tribunal provided solid evidence.

“It is not the time to sit on our laurels. It has been a long fight and the delay is positive, but we need to continue keeping it in the public eye,” Ms Tighe said. “ T his is an oppor tu n ity for the courts to start being pr o a c t ive a nd m a ke decisions which assist in the transition away from fossil fuels and reflect the global outlook on climate change.”

Ecologist, Dave Paull has been a professional witness to biodiversity statements within the Pilliga.

“They are proposing to clear 1000 hectares in a grid pattern, opening the forest to the flowon effect of noise and traff ic concerns,” Mr Paull said.

“Clearing also helps fe r a l pr e d at o r s a nd makes them more dangerous.”

T he P i l l iga Forest serves as a filtration system for the Great Artesian Basin, known as a recharge zone Ms Tighe emphasised t he c r u c i a l ne e d t o

prevent contamination of the top layers, given that the Great Artesian Basin underlies 22 per cent of inland Australia.

“If we protect the P i l l iga we a re preserving its natural benef its for f utu re generations - humans a nd f lora a nd fau na alike.”

The Coonabarabran Times has repeatedly reached out to Santos for comment, but at the time of print, has still not received a response.

A gas well in the Pilliga.

Drama Camp showcases young talent In a vibrant display of theatrical talent and creativity, Australian Theatre for Young People (ATYP), Orana Arts, and Coonabarabran High School joined forces to host the “Not a Dress Rehearsal Drama Camp” this January.

Held at C o on a ba r a br a n High School, the event brought t o g e t h e r 16 e n t hu s i a s t i c s t udent s f r om a c r o s s t he Warrumbungle Shire, offering them a unique platform to hone their acting skills and explore the realms of drama and performance.

The camp was a week-long immersion i n the world of theatre under the guidance of ATYP industry tutors, Sophie Kelly and Maddie Diggins. Their expert tutelage culminated in a Friday ‘Showcase’, where friends and family witnessed the participants’ remarkable prog ress and collaborative efforts. “ The success of programs like this camp is a basis for other opportunities with an

interest in continuing more project development for young people and performances in the Warrumbungle region,” said Camilla Ward, Orana Arts producer. “ Dr M ichael A rmstrong and his students from Coonabarabran High School p l ay e d a p i v o t a l r o l e i n the c a mp’s suc c ess. T hei r engagement and support were instrumental in creating a nu r t u r i n g a nd c o ndu c i v e env ironment for the young participants.

“The collaboration fostered a sense of commun ity and teamwork, essential components in the world of theatre.”

Ref lecting on her exper ience, S oph ie Kel ly

expressed admiration for the participants’ dedication and talent.

“In only a few short days they produced work that was detailed, bold and with great c omed ic f la i r,” she not ed , h i g h l i g h t i n g t h e c a m p ’s effectiveness in bringing out the best in young talents.

M add ie D igg i ns e choed these sentiments, praising the participants’ enthusiasm and collaborative spirit. “ I wa s blow n away by the young people’s positive energ y a nd commitment to collaboration,” she said, underscoring the importance of such attributes in both theatre and life.

The participants themselves were equally effusive about

their experiences.

One young actor shared, “ I r e a l ly appr e c i at e d t he opportunity this has g iven me and I would definitely do it again.”

Another added, “It was so much fun!”

A third participant noted the practical skills gained: “I developed my actor’s voice.”

T his successful prog ram has provided a platform for young talents to shine and laid the groundwork for future theatrical endeavours in the Warrumbungle region. It stands as a testament to the power of art in fostering community, creativity, and confidence in young individuals.

Students honed their artistic talents during the “Not a Dress Rehearsal Drama Camp” held at Coonabarabran during January.

7 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 25 January 2024

WORD

for

Country women converge WORD for baking competition

In this interview series, we sit down with locals for a quick-fire chat. Then we ask them, “Who should we talk to next?” And so the chain continues...

Do you have a nickname? Some of my patients call me Doctor Doug, but I try not encourage that. Mates from school call me DK, otherwise it’s just Doug.

How d id you come to l i ve i n Coonabarabran? My wife and I were living in Wentworthville, near Parramatta. We were sick of living in the big smoke. She was applying for a number of jobs and a position came up at Baradine Public School.

She was interviewed and within five months we moved up to Baradine.

We now live in Coona and have been in the area since 2018.

What ’s the most interesting job you’ve ever had? Pharmacy is an interesting job – you get all sorts.

You meet people at their best and worst. Uni was also interesting. My thesis was on honey bees, and we looked at medicinal plants; specifically plants with antiseptic proper ties and medicallyinteresting native plants. I also met my wife at uni.

You’ve had a stressful day – what’s your way of winding down? When the kids have been put to bed, I practice some pipe tunes on the chanter and read a good book.

How would your friends and family describe you in three words? Kind, eccentric and expansive.

What is something memorable that happened over the holiday period?

We had the joy of hosting Christmas again this year. It was very much a full house. We had a roast and I made Christmas pudding. My folks brought up lobster from the South Coast, where I am originally from.

Would you rather be able to create a new language or create a new holiday? A new holiday. More time off work. If you look Internationally, the amount of holidays we have in this country is limited. It would be nice to have more time to put back into community and bring people together.

Have you read any good books lately? Heaps. One I have read recently was the Tin Drum by Gunter Grass. It talks about those who are caught in between or within the grey areas during great conflicts. It tells both sides of WWII. Not an easy or a short read, but an interesting one, especially in these times.

What are the top three items on your bucket list? I would love to read my way through as much of the literar y cannon as possible.

See myself improve more with the bagpipes. I would also love to be here to see my children grow into content and useful citizens. See them grow from boys to men.

What is something people might not know about you? I am usually pretty open about what I am up to.

It is no secret I play the bagpipes. I am also a mad bush walker.

If you could pick a decade to visit on a time machine what would it be? It would be fascinating to go back to the period in between the wars. WWI set up the tenor of history for the rest of century.

Do you have a favourite community event or group? Coonabarabran Celtic Cl ub, of w h ich I am the president. We offer free tuition and are expanding our wings to teach the tin whistle.

If you could have anyone around for dinner (dead or alive) who would it be? Probably my grandfather. He passed away in 2000. It would have been nice to have him around a bit longer. He was expansive, he was musical and a great grandfather.

And what would you cook him? I would like to bake up his Christmas cake and see if it was true to his original recipe. It has been passed down through four generations and will be passed down to my boys.

When was the last time you had a really good laugh? Just about every day. Even on the worst day the re i s al ways somethi ng that lightens the mood. Life can be serious, but it pays not to take it too seriously.

Wha t ’s t he bes t adv i ce you’ve ever been given? Most comforting advice I have had is when I was a young pharmacist and a mentor of m i ne sa id that I was one of the good ones – despite the fact that I didn’t feel good enough or confident. I have since learnt that you need to make the same forgiveness to yourself as you do to other people. Good enough is good enough, you can’t always have perfection.

Who should we chat to next? Emma Doel.

DOUG KING 8 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 25 January 2024

Anticipation filled the air when members of the Country Women’s Association (CWA) gathered to compete in a popular cooking competition.

by LIZ CUTTS G r at t a i br a n c h o f C WA of NSW hosted the Castlereagh Country Group meeting and the regional Land Cookery finals on Monday, 27 November.

New group president, Annie Johnston gave her first report as president of the group following h e r app o i nt m e nt at t he O c t o b e r a n nu a l general meeting, a s d id t he r e c ent lyelected group secretary, B a rba r a H a le. B ot h women provided some background information about themselves.

Sixty-one entries were received in the Land Cookery competition, with judges K ristyne Ryba n k , Na r rom i ne, and A nnette Halpin, Mudgee Evening branch, commenting on the high standard of all entries.

Rylest one bra nch won the most entries categor y, w ith Debbi Johnston, Rylestone, taking out the award for the member with most entries.

Robyn Northern, of Mudgee branch, won the best exhibit for her butter cake, and Sue Lebarr, Grattai, won the encouragement award.

The criteria for the March handicraft competition was discussed and the i nt er nationa l of f icer a n nou n c e d t h at t he country of study for the next 12 months will be France.

Ag riculture and env i r on ment of f icer, L ou ise P ress sha red essential information she had gathered on the invasive Fire Ant, sighti ngs of wh ich had been confirmed in northern NSW. Louise said that this species of ants is very a g g r e s s ive a nd w i l l swarm onto a person, or animal, stinging over and over again, causing the sensation of being on fire. “ F i re ants a re one of the worst invasive

species to reach Australia’s shores and can significantly impact on the env i ronment,” Louise said.

“Their stings are very painful and can become in fected and, in ra re cases, can lead to a fatal allergic reaction.

“They feed on seeds, insects, spiders, lizards, frogs, birds and m a m m a l s . T hey c a n displace or kill off native plants and animals and change whole ecosystems beyond repair.

“Their presence limits the ability to export goods to states or countries free of the red imported fire ant.”

Louise added that, so far, NSW Department of Primary Industry has carried out stakeholder engagement and t r a i n i n g t o i ndu st r y and community in the nor ther n border zone and will keep members of the public informed of its progress.

State president, Joy Beams reported that the association continues to be dissatisfied with the operational procedures of the A ssociated Country Women of the World (ACW W ) and it

has been recommended that future donations for international work are directed through the CWA of NSW. Members unanimously voted t o suppor t the group’s special project of the Macquarie Home

Stay in Dubbo through f u nd-ra isi ng at both group and branch level.

The agriculture and environment report was won by Purlewaugh, with Baradine branch taking out the best publicity report.

Ag and Environment officer, Louise Press presented information on the invasive fire ant.

On behalf of Baradine branch of CWA, Irene Worrell accepted the trophy for the best publicity report from group international officer, Evelyn Hampton.

Judges were impressed with the high standard of entries in the cooking competition: Kristyne Rybak (Narromine), Annette Halpin (Mudgee Evening), with group vice-president, Margaret Baxter and Land Cookery officer, Lyn Halpin.

BINNAWAY TENNIS CLUB: COMMUNITY OPEN DAY There were plenty of smiling faces ready to help christen the newly-resurfaced courts at Binnaway Tennis Club’s community open day and Photos: Jane Phillips barbecue on Saturday, 20 January.

Emily Larkin with Darcy and Sophie Phillips, keeping cool in the shade.

Noel Markey, who helped to construct the original clubhouse, chats to Jim Larkin.

Dan Stewart, Warwick Moppet and Kevin Tighe.

Adrian Betts backing up Emily Larkin on the court.

Julie Gray and Jane Phillips keeping everyone well fed.

John and Maureen Irons, Inika Kroh, Marion Anderson, Jane Simmons and Lyn Petherbridge enjoyed watching the tennis at Binnaway Tennis Club last Saturday.

9 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 25 January 2024

Nick and Inika Kroh.

Back (l-r): Jodie Henley, Keith Gray, Julie Gray and Emma Staples. Front: Emily Henley, Maddison Staples and Sophie Phillips.

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10 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 25 January 2024

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THE OLD PUBS OF COONABARABRAN: PART 1 During the 10 years of the 70s, the hotel business in Coonabarabran c ont i nue d t o t h r ive.

T hei r nu mber was g r e at er, a nd t hey cha nged ha nds more frequently than at any other time in the history of Coonabarabran. They were still very primitive str uctu res, but most could provide a meal and a clean bed for weary travellers.

There were two licensed hotels in town at the beginning of the 70s – Kerr’s Castlereagh Inn and the Court House Hot el , r u n by A n n a Ma r ia Nelson. T here were several others in close proximity – Field’s T r avel ler ’s Home at Nandi, Edward Lyons’ Sportsman’s Arms on the River Road, John Boyle’s Bush lnn at Rocky Glen, McCubbin’s Box Ridge Hotel, and Border’s at Baradine being amongst them.

September 1870, William Kerr, brother of John of the Castlereagh Inn, met with a fatal accident. His headstone, the second oldest in the present Coonabarabran cemetery, says he was ” K i l led by a Horse ”.

He was only 26 years old. His brother John inherited all his worldly goods, valued at £106.

He was William’s eldest brother and h is on ly next of kin in the colony.

John was so upset by the accident that he could no longer run his hotel. He began to drink heavily.

His mind was never the same afterwards.

Wi l l iam Ga rd i ner became the licensee and John turned to farming with his relatives – the McC ubbi ns, at B ox R idge. Ga rd i ner had come to town to install the machinery for the Coop Flour Mill. The hotel business was definitely not for Gardiner! He was a bit too fond of a drink himself.

W hen h is licence fell due for renewal in 18 72 , he wa s c a l le d before the court to show cause why it should not be c a nc el led . S en ior Sergeant Ewing did not think he was a fit person to run such a place. He had already been before the c ou r t tw ice that year on the charge of

being drunk and of being of unsound mind, no doubt brought on by “the horrors”. The charges’ bench was told that he had been continually “under the influence” for the past six months. The licence was not renewed.

Gardiner then took up t he pr ofe s sion of bl ac k sm it h . T he old C a st ler e ag h I n n l ay empty. Gardiner must have mended his ways however, as he became a respected member of the town and went on to live a long and full life.

He died 6 March 1917 at the age of 83.

On the block where the Royal Hotel is today, stood the roughly-built hotel called the Court House. Robert Nelson a nd h i s w i fe , A n n a Maria, had kept this hotel and small store si nc e t he e a rly 6 0 s .

W hen R obert died in 1867, Anna Maria had the licence transferred to herself and ran the p l a c e v e r y c a p a b l y, although she was not yet 30 years of age. She g ives the impression of being of the burly, bu xom-ba rmaid style of byg one d ays . S he was before the cou r t on many occasions for breaches of some part of the Publicans Act. In 1868 she took out a slaughtering licence and had a billiard table installed at the hotel.

In 1870 she married John Enright. After a short time, they decided to give up the hotel and move onto the land at Ulamambri. The licence was transferred to the Royal Oak, a new hotel on the south-western cor ner of Joh n a nd Dalgarno Streets, where the Imperial Hotel now st a nd s . T h i s wa s i n 1872. Edward Swords was the licensee.

B efor e t he l ic enc e was transferred, E dwa r d S wor d s h ad taken over the running of the billiard room at the Court House Hotel.

From late in 1871 he probably also ran the hotel itself. When the licence was transferred, the Court House Hotel was pulled down.

In 1875, William Field Jnr sold the block where the old C ou r t House Hot el had st o od t o Joseph Gifford, for £15.

Gifford was a builder. It seems he put up a new hotel, which was run

by Dorothea McKinnon.

She was the wife of Neil McKinnon, of Gulgong, who r a n t he R ob er t Burns Hotel and stable in that town.

Two years later, in 1877, Dorothea bought the block of land and the building on it for £120.

It must have been quite a n impressive place.

Not only did it have a billiards room, but also a spacious theatre with a stage!

No more than a year later, the Court House Hotel aga in changed hands. Dora McKinnon, with the able assistance of her solicitor, Anthony Brough, sold it to

Edward Lyons for the outrageous sum of £700.

With the money he had made from farming and from his inn on the River Road, Lyons managed to pay off £492.

Anthony Brough held the mor tgage for the £3 0 8 sti l l ow ing. He sold the mor tgage to Samuel De Sissa, a spirit merchant of Sydney. In

1879, De Sissa foreclosed and sold the hotel to G eorge McHugh, the station superintendent at Yearinan, for £235.

Edward Lyons went back to being a farmer at Springfield.

Mc Hugh held the hotel until 1909. When the Post Office was built close by, he changed the name to the Telegraph

Hotel.

The text and photos in t h i s a r t i c l e h a v e been re-arranged from pages 87 to 94 of Pickette and Campbell’s “Coonabarabran As it was in the Beginning” an d Jo y P i ck ett e’s “ C o on a bara bran , A s Time Goes By”.

John Whitehead

A bullock team waits outside George McHugh’s Telegraph Hotel in John Street, Coonabarabran. Originally called the Court House Hotel when run

by Robert Nelson since the early 1860s, it changed to the Telegraph Hotel in 1881 when George McHugh took over the licence from Edward Lyons.

Dalgarno Street looking east in 1868 showing the Castleregh Inn and blacksmith shop, then run by John and William Kerr. First owned by James Weston, the Inn was sold to Alfred Croxon in 1856, along with the lease on the Coolabarabyan Run. The first land sale was held in the bar parlor of the Inn on 16-17 April 1860.

This article was prepared by volunteers from the Coonabarabran History Group. For more information phone 0477 394 865 anytime, or email dpscoona@bigpond.com or visit www.coonahistorygroup.com.au

• GAMILARAAY WORD OF THE WEEK •

The Coonabarabran Times is running ‘Gamilaraay Word of the Week’, in celebration of our local Indigenous language.

This week’s Gamilaraay word of the week is ‘gurraari’ meaning white cypress pine.

‘gurraari’ – white cypress pine

11 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 25 January 2024

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12 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 25 January 2024

Blokes break the silence

Mindfully impacting male members of the community is Coonabarabran Rotary Club’s new program, Barbie with the Blokes.

by GEORGIA SPENCE Previous gatherings have had high levels of success as men opened up to share their feelings.

This indicated a safe and trusting space, created by organiser Russ James, Coonabarabran Rotary C l u b p re s i d e nt, a n d d i recto r of Trad ies I n Sight, Bruno Efoti.

D u r i ng Novembe r last year the program embarked on its mission to bring men together.

Three sessions have since been held, totalling 45 attendees, new and returning, and involved a meal and a discussion around mental health.

The program aims to p rov i d e su ppo r t a nd resources to men who may other wise be reluctant to talk about their experiences.

After personal encounters with a friend who died from suicide

on a work site, Mr Efoti and his wife studied and gained qualifications in professional counselling.

Mr Efoti then turned his experience into Tradies I n Sig ht, as a way to connect tradespeople to one another.

Throughout his journey he has met around 3000 men who have had the courage to speak up about their emotions.

Both programs – Barbie with the Blokes a n d Tra d i e s I n S i g ht – identif y a need fo r men to be heard and supported.

Barbie with the Blokes cur rently receives financial support from Rotary, but this funding i s set to co ncl ud e i n June of this year. There i s o pt i m i s m t h a t t h e p rog ra m m a y pe r s i s t beyond the cessation of funding, as Mr James envisions the community of ‘b l o kes’ co m i ng

together to sustain and develop the initiative as an ongoing project.

After only three session of Barbie with the Blokes, both Mr James and Mr Efoti were surprised at the level of openness amongst the attendees.

They noted how the men shared deeply on emotional topics and were not afraid to be vulnerable.

Mr James was confident the program has had a positive impact to the community.

“T h e re i s s t uf f t h at goes on in blokes’ lives that they don’t readily share with their partners or anyone close to them.

Particularly in business such a s fa r m i ng,” M r James said.

“I remember reading a b o o k o n ce w h e r e i t ta l ke d a b o u t m e n l i v i n g l i ve s o f ‘q u i et desperation’. There are things that happen in

life that not everyone is willing to share or are confident in sharing.

“Gathering for a feed also plays a big part in the process. Blokes love a good feed – provided meat is a part of it!”

D u r i n g t h e se co n d meeti ng, M r James g rew cur ious about the reasons behind t h e m e n’s r e t u r n o r initial attendance. He approached one of the attendees and inquired

about his decision to par ticipate in the session.

“This bloke told me, if I had tried to talk to him about depression 10 years ago, he would have told me to eat a bit of concrete and harden up,” Mr James said.

“The man continued explaining how some people in his life went into depression and he didn’t understand how real it was and how it’s

so debilitating.

“He wanted to come along to contribute, or just to learn.”

Both Mr James and Mr Efoti are pleased with the success of each session, obse r vi ng s i g n if i ca nt progress in the men’s capacit y to establish connections with one another.

Sessions are and w i l l be hel d i n a rea s “where blokes go”, such as Roach’s Hardware,

Pursehouse Rural, Elders and the Coona Club.

The next session will be feature a pig on a spit, with a date yet to be confirmed.

The message Mr James takes away from the sessions is how intentional investment towards the community and thei r wellbeing provides results.

“Real men do cry. Real blokes get in touch with their emotions.”

Tradies in Sight director, Bruno Efoti, speaking with local men at a ‘Barbie with the Blokes’ event hosted by Elders Coonabarabran last year.

Looking forward to Australia Day A very happy new rear to everyone in the Parkes electorate! I enjoyed spending time with family and my cattle over the break and was glad to see some muchneeded rainfall.

My hope is that 2024

brings a new optimism to us all, and Australia Day is a good way to start the year in that it reminds us of all the benefits of living in our great country. Australia Day, and indeed our sense of nationhood, is what we make it in many ways, and I know

that we are stronger knowing our history and acknowledging our strengths.

I look forward to visiting communities to attend Australia Day events, welcoming new citizens and celebrating the diverse, multicultural nation we live in.

Federal Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton on his farm at Warialda.

13 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 25 January 2024

Peter Nelson’s

WEATHER WATCH The past week has seen very high temperatures in mainly the Pilbara and Gascoyne districts of WA. Paraburdoo recorded 48.1 degrees on Sunday, 21 January – the highest ever temperature in 65 years of records recorded at Paraburdoo. The previous highest temperatures were 47.8 on 15 January 1998 and 46.3 on 12 January 1991.

Meekatharra recorded 46.1 degrees, the hottest there since 47.1 in January 2013.

These very high temperatures and on the dates in which they occurred led to maximum temperatures exceeding 40 degrees about a week later at many places in our region. It does remain to be seen whether these temperatures do exceed 40 degrees within the coming week in our region, because maximum temperatures to date this summer have been close to, or slightly below normal and were definitely not as hot as December to mid January of 1990-91, 199798 and 2012-13.

A few places – Moree, Coonamble, Trangie and Girilambone – reached 40 degrees on Sunday, 21

January for the first time this summer.

Many places in the far west of NSW have had very hot days over 40 degrees this summer, including Wilcannia, which had 46 degrees in mid December.

Heavy rain has invaded much of the Northern Territory to as far south as Tennant Creek for almost a fortnight.

Daly Waters has received 386mms over 14 successive days and this is already the fourth wettest January in 150 years; the wetter Januaries were in 1895, 1940 and 2009.

Elliot, south of Daly Waters, has recorded 432mms this month, already the second-wettest January behind 522mms in 2006.

Tennant Creek has recorded 310mms to date this month and this has been the wettest since 357mms in 2006.

Many places in our region managed to record very hot days of over 40 degrees during the first week of February 2006 and 39 degrees in early March of 2006.

Tropical cyclone activity was very frequent in the Coral Sea during early 2006 – there were four of them, namely Jim at the end of January-early February, Cyclone Kate during the fourth week of February 2006, and Cyclone Wati and Cyclone Larry in both the third and fourth weeks of March 2006.

The two in March 2006 caused a lot of damage to major towns from Mackay to Innisfail.

A new tropical cyclone named Kirrily has formed in the Coral Sea, 1000kms east of Innisfail, and appears to be heading towards the Queensland coast near Mackay.

Castlereagh League up for the challenge!

If the attendance at Castlereagh League’s first training session for its senior 2024 representative side is anything to go by, then the Cougars will be up for the challenge that awaits them in the Western Rams selection trials against both Group 11 and Group 10 on 17 February in Wellington.

T r a i n i n g i n swelter i ng heat at Narromine last Sunday under the guidance of the 2023 Clayton Cup and Castlereagh League premiersh ip -w i n n i ng c o a c h , B r ad Ja m e s , from Gulgong, the

enthusiastic Cougars’ squad gave their all in a session that, more than anything, proved their commitment to being involved in the Rams’ trials.

Players demonstrated their commitment to the

team by travelling vast d i st a nc e s t o at t end , a nd the v ibe a rou nd the t ra i n i ng session was extremely positive, which augurs well for a good showing from the Castlereagh team in the Western trials.

I n other news, the C a s t ler e a g h L e a g ue clubs will be meeting this Sunday at Gilgandra to finalise matters for the 2024 season.

A t t he s a me t i me , Jessica Skinner will be conducting a free ‘coach the coaches’ workshop for all Castlereagh L e a g ue , G r oup 14 Junior Rugby League and Castlereagh Women’s Rugby League coaches.

Jessica, after starting her coaching career in the Castlereagh League, has gone on to become one of the most elite

coaches in Australian rugby league.

To name but two of her recent ach ievements, she is cu r rently assista nt coach to the Australian Ji l leroos a nd is a lso the head coach of the Indigenous Women’s All Stars team that will be playing in Townsville in a few weeks against the Maori All Stars.

Jessica was the first female to be appointed a head-coaching position in the histor y of the A ll-Stars games, and she is totally passionate about her involvement with the game of r ugby leag ue. She is equa l ly passionate about supporting clubs a nd pl ayer s i n t he C a s t ler e a g h L e a g ue area where her amazing journey began and where she still resides.

Bryson Luff

Jessica Skinner with the Challenge Cup that was inaugurated in 2023 in her honour and is played for by Castlereagh League Tag teams during competition rounds.

Over the Odds CENTRAL & WESTERN RACING by COL HODGES

Coonabarabran Workshop Dubbo Towing & Salvage

Free Pickup within town limits for mechanical repairs Heavy Tow Truck Tilt Tray Low Loader Mechanical Repairs Radiators Exhausts Servicing Rego Checks (Pink & Blue)

MVRL 53779

Diagnostics Check

PH: 02 6842 2170 0427 423 170 • 0428 423 170

Cowra Races Sunday, 21 January Up-and-coming G i l g a nd r a t r a i ner, Kieren Hazelton achieved h i s m o s t i mp o r t a nt win to date when Not Too Bad won the 1700 metres Cowra Cup on Sunday, 21 January.

Raced by a big syndicate, mainly from Gilgandra, Not Too Bad was patiently ridden in the Cup by champion Cowra jockey Mathew Cahill, settling back in the field where Lemaire led from Dubai Centre, Notabadidea, Athena’s Lad and the Gilgandra C up w i n ner, S e a O f Flames.

Athena’s L ad, the 2 022 Cowra Cup winner, took the lead in the straight before Not Too Bad issued a strong challenge.

A fter a stirring battle over the final 150 metres, Not Too Bad ($8) prevailed by a long head from Athena’s Lad (Nick Heywood, $3.80 to $2.90 favourite), with

Notabadidea ( R onald Simpson , $15 ) two lengths away in third place.

Not only did Not Too Bad provide the much admired Mathew Cahill with the third leg of a treble and seventh Cowra Cup, but also clinched him the inaugural Reg Paine Memorial Jockeys Challenge.

For the Paine family from Cowra it completed a memorable week, with Adam Hyeronimius, the grandson of Reg Paine, winning the Gold Coast Magic Millions on Storm Boy. F irst leg of the Mathew Cahill treble was Sw i l ken Br idge, t r a i ne d by 8 5 -ye a r old Barry Molloy, from Forbes.

Acknowledged as an outstanding trainer over many decades, Barry Molloy also trained the dam of Swilken Bridge – Lake Lugarno, winner of nine races including in Sydney and winner of a Central Districts Horse

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of the Year title.

Swilken Bridge ($5) led for home and fought off the challenge of t he B jor n B a ker, Warwick Farm-trained M i s c avol i n i ( K ayl a Nisbet, $1.95 to $1.80 favourite) to win by a long head, with Sakimarjuel ( Nick Hey wo od , $ 6), over two lengths away, third in the 950 metres Maiden Plate.

T he o t he r w i n ne r for Mathew Cahill was a b o a r d t he M i c h ae l Lynch, Cowra-Winkle Draper and Owen Murray Memor ial Countr y Boosted Benchmark 58 Handicap.

Owned by Ian Eastaway from Grenfell, Bon Zipper ($2.80 fav), with a strong run from mid f ield, beat W hite Liar (Coriah Keatings, $4.40) and Bush Warrior (Ken Dunbar, $21).

Trained at Canberra

by Barbara Joseph, Paul Jones and Matt Jones, t h e s e v e n -y e a r - o ld gelding Merc won the feature sprint, the 1200

metres Cow ra Japan Cup. Given a nice r un behind the leaders by Quayde K rogh, Merc ($7) won by almost a length from Battle Abbey (Robyn Freeman, $18) and Brogans Creek (Jake Pracey-Holmes, $5.50).

Making it two wins in succession, T hat’s Better, trained by Alison Smith at Orange, was a runaway winner of the 950 metres Benchmark 58 Handicap.

Owned by the trainer’s husband Nathan Smith, T h at ’s B e t t e r ( W i l l S t a n l e y, $ 2 . 3 5 f av ) steamed home to win by over three lengths from the leader, So Extra (Zoe Hunt, $3.80), and Twin Seas (Ashleigh Stanley, $19).

Gulgong trainer Brett Thompson landed the quinella in the 12 0 0 metres Country Boosted Maiden Handicap when debut ma ker Hammering Away (Jake Pracey-Holmes, $4.60) led throughout to win

from The Git Up (Ronald Simpson, $7 ) and Flying Dubawi (Michael Heagney, $19).

Resuming from a spel l , the Dav id Smith, Mudgee-trained L ockdown Gamble (Coriah Keatings, $8.50) is a talented galloper and over the concluding stages swept past East Ha rlem ( R oby n F reeman, $5.50) and St raya P r ide ( K en Dunbar, $21) to win the Class 3 Handicap.

Other winners were the Brett Robb, Dubbotrained Rubi Air (Nick Heywood, $3.30 fav) in the 1200 metres Country Boosted Benchmark 58 Handicap and the Bjorn Baker trained Able Red ( Kayla Nisbet, $6) in the 1375 metres Maiden Plate. xxxx Racing at Parkes on Saturday, 27 January, followed by Bathurst on Friday, 2 February, and Dubbo on Monday, 5 February.

Subpar fielding lets New format for Wednesday golf cricketers down Coonabarabran’s cricket team has suffered a further loss this season, this time in their match against Town Services from Gilgandra, played last Saturday, 20 January.

P l a y e d a t Coonabarabran’s number three oval on a warm day, tempered by a n i nt er m it t ent br e ez e , Town Services won the toss and chose to bat.

The visitors made a solid start and took their score to 38 in the ninth over before they lost their first wicket – K ieren Hazelton, for 13.

As the innings progressed, other solid contributions for Gilgandra came from Mark Temple (19) and Jacob Wilson (11). But the knock that ultimately secured victory for Town Services came from their captain, Ash Hazelton, who, after opening the batting, remained not out on 123 when the innings ended at the end of their 40 allocated overs. Town Services scored 180.

Best bowling figures for Coona were recorded

by Cameron Whittall, who took 3-20.

Coona’s run chase was never likely to overhaul Tow n S er v ic es ’ ver y good total. Coona lost their first two wickets with only nine runs on the boa rd a nd never recovered.

C o on a wa s b owled out in the 29 th over for 10 8 , w it h on ly Nick Willoughby (34), Eben Botha (16), Caine Thompson (15), Anthony

Harris (15) and Koopa Thompson (13) reaching double figures.

Best bowling figures for Town Services were recorded by Mark Temple (3-32), Marshall Parker (2-16) and Ash Hazelton (2-19).

T he C o ona cr icket

team was left ruing their poor catching, which saw them drop at least six chances during Town Services’ innings. That was probably the most significant difference between the sides.

Coona’s next scheduled game is this

coming Saturday, 27 January, against Gidgee (C o ona mble) here i n Coona. The game will be played at number three oval starting at 1.00pm.

The locals are hoping for an improved performance in that game.

N.W.

Nick Willoughby (left), who scored 34 runs, and Cameron Whittall, who took three wickets for 20 runs, were Coona’s best performers in last Saturday’s clash against Gilgandra’s Town Services cricket team.

AROUND THE TRAPS CHICKEN RUN Sunday, 21 January The Coonabarabran G o l f C l u b ’s S u n d ay morning chicken run was played over the back n i ne on 21 Ja nua r y, w ith Aden L a ra nce and Wally Tighe in the winners’ circle, scoring 25 points.

Runners-up were Dick Clark and Mick Noy, 23

points on a count back.

B a l ls were won by Nat Bailey and Roger Bailey, 23 points.

Next Sunday ’s ch icken r un, on 28 January, will be played over the front nine, and take the form of a twoperson Ambrose.

Chook

15 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 25 January 2024

VETERANS’ GOLF Tuesday, 16 January Nine veteran golfers took part in the Tuesday golf competition at the C o on aba rabra n G ol f Club on 16 January. The course was dry, so there was plenty of run when a ball was struck well.

Dick Clark and Peter McDonald both had very good games.

Winner on the day was Dick Clark with a net 34, while Peter McDonald, as runner-up, had a net 35.

Nearest to the pin on the 9th hole was Dick Cla rk , wh i le Pet er McDonald won the long putt.

Keep smiling when golfing W.B.

The Coonabarabran Golf Club’s new format for Wednesday competitions is proving very popular, allowing more players to participate each week.

The all-day tee-off time gives the competitors the opportunity to attack the course early in the morning, while others prefer lat er i n the afternoon.

Results – Wednesday 17 January Once again we had Kat Christoff in the winner’s c i r c le , r e c or d i n g 3 4 stableford points. Well done Kat. Keep up the good golf.

B a l l w i n ners were John Dawson, 33 points, and Donna Salisbury, 31 points.

There were no nearest the pin prizes.

A l l Wed nesday competitions are medley events and are usually s t a ble f o r d s . S p e c i a l event s , i .e. Mont h ly medals, will be advised in advance.

We are aware that the groundsmen are having a battle keepi ng the putting greens in order and they have asked the players not to turn the sprinklers off when putting. Instead, unless your ball is within a

close putting position, once on the green add two shots to your score and pick up your ball.

The course is playing

well with lots of run.

Extremely enjoyable if you can escape the heat in the middle of the day.

Minnie and her mate

BOWLO BRIEFS Wel l done to Ma rk Watton, Marky Watton, Tony Antaw and Levi Heywood, for turning up to play bowls last Sunday.

Australia Day Barefoot Bowls Barefoot Bowls w i l l be played at the Coonaba rabran Bowling Club on Austra l ia Day, F r id ay 2 6 , Ja nu a r y, commencing at 10am, being Jack Attack (two games) tr iples /mi xed triples.

On offer is $500 in prize money. Entry – $10 per bowler.

There will be Aussie music on the green, plus a free barbecue.

Twilight Bowls Nominations a re now open for Summer T w i l ight B owls t o be pl ayed over si x weeks, commenci ng F r id ay, 9 Fe br u a r y, and concluding on 15 March.

T he format will be triples/mixed triples, w ith $6 0 0 i n pr ize money. Entry – $10 per bowler. Each week from 6.30pm.

Social Bowls Sunday Social bowls a r e b ei n g pl aye d a s usua l, names i n by 10am, with play sta r ting at 10.3 0am.

New players are always very welcome.

Purple Lady

Unicorns announce dynamic coaching lineup for 2024 Three months out from round one of the 2024 Castlereagh League competition, Coonabarabran Unicorns Rugby League Football Club has unveiled its coaching lineup for the upcoming footy season, promising an exciting and competitive year ahead.

Youth League Frankie Capewell will take the helm as Ladies League Tag coach in 2024.

The experienced and energetic coach is ready to impar t his wealth of knowledge to the talented group of women.

C a p e w e l l i s

enthusiastic about the upcoming season and invites interested players to join training ses s i o n s o n Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6pm at Coonabarabran’s No.1 Oval.

First Grade Fo r the F i r st G rade s q u a d, t h e d y n a m i c coaching duo of Jarvis

Watton and Will “Buddy” Robinson will take the reins.

Both coaches bring a wealth of experience to the table and a re gearing up for an exciting season.

Training sessions will continue on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6pm at No.1 Oval, maintaining

th e t ra d it i o n of pa s t seasons.

In addition, the team is gearing up for a trial game against Narrabri, to be held ahead of the season opener in Coolah on Saturday, 20 April.

Youth League Tim Evans has been appointed Youth League coach fo r the 2 0 24

season.

E va n s e n c o u r a g e s all interested players to participate in a run at No.1 Oval on Thursday afternoons at 6pm.

The goal is to assemble a strong and competitive team for the upcoming season.

Evans urges everyone to spread the word and

join the excitement by coming down to the oval.

Coonabarabran Unicorns’ president, Steve Walton said with these seasoned coaches at the helm, Coonabarabran Unicorns were poised for a remarkable 2024 season.

“Players and fans are encouraged to be part of

the action, as the teams gear up for what promises to be an unforgettable year of rugby league,” Walton said.

The 2024 Castlereagh League season is scheduled to officially kick off on Saturday, 27 April, w ith Coonaba rab ran taking on Coonamble at home.

Youth League

Men’s First Grade

Women’s League Tag

Tim Evans

Will Robinson and Jarvis Watton

Frankie Capewell

16 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 25 January 2024