Coonabarabran Times (digital) - 26.10.2023

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Coonabarabran Times THURSDAY, 26TH OCTOBER 2023

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COONABARABRAN – THE ASTRONOMY CAPITAL OF AUSTRALIA

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION PAGE 2

ON THIS DAY PAGE 4

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YABBIE RACES FUN PAGES 13

Coona Cup attracts record crowd

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COONABARABRAN CUP: PAGES 4, 6, 7 + 14 Savannah Carey, Anna Arndell and Claudia Eastburn with horse, Better than Pearls, at last Sunday’s Coona Cup.

1 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 26th October 2023

Photo: Jimmy Whalan

Lights, camera, action!

The Azalea Motel turned into a hub of creativity as a crew came to Coonabarabran, exploring the old wonders of the town for their new film.

by GEORGIA SPENCE Rooms within the Aza lea Motel were transformed last week, setting the scene for an independent feature film titled ‘Two Ugly People’.

A f t er two yea rs of scouting for the perfect location, director Peter Skinner and his col lective of creative minds travelled with their professional gea r f rom Syd ney t o Coonabarabran.

Aiming to create an original romance/drama with a specific countrywestern aesthetic, the film follows two lovers who meet every year at the same motel.

Production manager, K aitly n McMur tr y acknowledged the advantages of discovering Coonabarabran and the unique aesthetics of the Azalea Motel. “ This motel fit perfectly with its white walls and the cactus,” Miss McMurtry said. “ I think we all feel quite at home here – everyone is so lovely and it is way more of a relaxed vibe out here compared to Sydney.”

Throughout filming the crew supported the town, reaching out to local cafes for catering and sourcing items from the hardware store.

And when enjoying a

day off from their busy schedule, the team was over whel me d by t he natural beauty of the area when bushwalking in the Warrumbungles.

“It was beautiful; it’s nice to be in nature and it really helped create a v ibe on set , wh ich ultimately does translate t o the screen ,” M iss McMurtry said For many crew members, who previously studied at the Australian F ilm, Radio and Telev ision S chool (A F T R S ), the film is a kickstart to their professional career.

There are hopes to enter the film into festivals and selected cinemas across

Sydney.

“If it does do well at film festivals, that is a huge help for everyone involved. It helps our careers to grow a lot,” Miss McMurtry said. “ We have a l l been working in the industry for a couple of years, but we are still getting started.”

Hav ing w rapped up filming in Coonabarabran, the crew has now moved on to Gilgandra and Jerrys Plains to complete the regional portion of the shoot before returning to Sydney, where they will apply for post production funding to complete the film.

Director of ‘Two Ugly People’, Peter Skinner, and producer, Orla Doyle, shooting at the Azalea Motel in Coonabarabran last week.

Director of ‘Two Ugly People’, Peter Skinner, and producer, Orla Doyle, shooting at the Azalea Motel in Coonabarabran last week.

Coonabarabran pool temporarily closed On Tuesday, 24 October, Wa r r u m bu n g l e S h i r e Council announced that the Coonabarabran Town Pool would be temporarily closed due to electrical issues associated with a pump.

Council assured pool u s er s t h at st a f f wer e working to have the pump back up and running as soon as possible, however, at the time of writing, it was unclear when this

• ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY •

would be.

C ou n c i l r ep o r t e d a similar issue on Saturday, 21 October, which resulted in the pool being closed to the public and key holders as staff investigated.

There has also been a delay in the re-opening o f B i n n aw ay P o o l a s pr o blem s w it h a fo ot valve need to be addressed before the pool can be filled with water.

Council assured

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, 26th October 2023

Binnaway pool users that repairs were underway and that the pool would be opened as soon as the repairs were complete.

Last year’s sporadic swim season was impacted by issues with equipment, but in an effort to improve this year’s swim season, Council elected to spend $ 5 5 0 ,0 0 0 on br i ng i ng electronics and pumps up to date for the pools across the Shire.

School closures – bushfire risk Bushfire danger policies across NSW public schools have been given a shake up and may result in an increase in school closures over the warmer months.

by JIMMY WHALAN Both Coonabarabran P u b l i c a n d Coonabarabran High Schools have be classed as Category 2 schools; that is, schools located in areas of light bush or scrub.

Department policy means that during upon a catastrophic bushfire danger period being declared, these schools will be closed.

Schools may also be made non-operational due to changing higherrisk conditions and related advice from emergency services and the State Emergency Operations Centre.

Category 1 schools, meaning schools in areas of heavy bush or forest, will close when a high bushfire danger period is declared.

Some closures have already occurred this year including on Thursday, 12 October 2023, when six schools in the Central West were forced to close after the

declaration of extreme bushfire danger.

These schools included the Warrumbungle National Park Environmental Education Centre and Tooraweenah Public School.

Coonabarabran Public School principal, Lucy Evans said she supports the Department of Education in taking measures to ensure the safety of students and staff during bushfire season.

“We recommend that you use the School Stream app and school Facebook page as we will be using these platforms to advise parents that the school is non-operational,” Mrs Evans said.

“We also recommend that you s tay up to date with bushfire and grassfire activity by using the Hazards Near Me app and by monitoring local media.”

Mrs Evans clarified that although the bushfire danger rating may see the school

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close during periods of catastrophic conditions, it did not necessarily mean there would be a bushfire.

“It is merely a proactive measure to ensure the safety of students, staff, and the community,” Mrs Evans said.

Coonabarabran High School principal, Mary Doolan said she also recommended that parents and carers download the School Stream app to stay up to date as bushfire risks change.

On days that the

school is made nonoperational, Ms Doolan said learning materials would be available via Google Classroom.

Updates on the operational status of the schools will be made after 4pm for the following day.

Local schools may be forced to close during times of extreme and catastrophic conditions.

Coona Cup draws a crowd On Sunday, 22 October, hundreds of racegoers from the region and afar flocked to Coonabarabran Racecourse to attend the event of the season, the annual Coonabarabran Cup.

by JIMMY WHALAN After the 202 2 event was cancelled due to wet weather, the 2023 Coona Cup was back and bigger than ever with this year’s cup being described as one of the largest ever.

Coonabarabran Jockey Club president, Adam Freeman said these near- record numbers coupled with some great weather created an amazing atmosphere throughout the day.

“With the lack of rain around at the moment we could see that forecast was going to be fine from a few weeks out, so I think that attracted a lot more people to the event as well,” Mr Freeman said.

Fine weather conditions in the lead up to the Coona Cup also made for some great track conditions on the day.

“The track team pulled off

one of the best tracks that we’ve had, and the stewards were exceptionally happy with it.”

With people coming from all over to attend Coonabarabran’s event of the season, Mr Freeman said there was an abundance of returning racegoers from Sydney, the Hunter Valley, the Mid North Coast, and strong local support.

“There were g roups from everywhere and most of them were returning groups that come up for the whole weekend every year and go to the yabbie races and Calcutta, then head up to the track on Sunday for the Cup,” Mr Freeman said.

“It’s great to see those people back in town year after year to support the event and have a great weekend.”

Mr Freeman said the thing that keeps people coming back every year is that there is so much activity throughout the weekend

including the unique yabby races event and Calcutta on Saturday, and the Coona Cup on Sunday. “ T h e r e’s j u s t s o m e t h i n g about the whole Coona Cup atmosphere, it’s special, and once you’ve experienced it, you’ll want to keep coming back year after year – it’s just the place to be.”

Although no local horses got up on the day, this year’s Coona Cup did predominantly feature horses and jockeys from regional areas.

Mr Freeman said of the eight races held on the day, six were won between two jockeys.

“A n n a Ro p e r ro d e t h re e winners including the cup winner on the day and another jockey, Clayton Gallagher rode three winners as well,” Mr Freeman said.

“There was also a trainer from Scone, Cameron Crockett, who trained two of the winners.”

Mr Freeman said it was also a big day for Baradine Racing Club, with the 120th Baradine Cup also being held on the day.

“It was just an overall great day of racing, a great crowd and great atmosphere.”

Mr Freeman said the Coona Cup weekend also benefitted the local economy, with the benefits having a flow-on effect throughout the town as people come to stay in motels, go out to eat at restaurants and cafes, and have a night out at clubs and pubs.

“The whole weekend is a massive benefit to the whole town, it brings in a lot of money from visitors and also brings the locals out as well,” Mr Freeman said.

“It’s not just the influx of visitor money, it’s also local people getting out and supporting local business.”

Jury finds Philip guilty A 44-year-old former Coonabarabran man and Rural Fire Service superintendent has been found guilty for sexually assaulting a then 14-year boy in the early 2000s.

Corey Anthony Philip was on trial for five-days last week in the Lismore District Court, sitting before Judge Robert Newlinds.

After a three hour and one minute deliberation, Philips was convicted by the court for one count of aggravated sex assault - victim under the age of 16 years; and sexual intercourse with person 14 to under 16 years, for which Philip entered a not guilty plea.

Court documents show the accused was found guilty on count one, which is the substantive matter in this second charge.

He was also found guilty on a further charge of aggravated indecent assault - victim under the age of 16 years.

This matter is listed for a sentence hearing in December 2023.

Philip was refused bail and was taken into custody.

4 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 26th October 2023

Auctioneers, Livestock and Property Servicing Warrumbungle Shire

Australia’s international competitiveness improves • In September, Brazilian cattle prices reached parity with Australian prices.

• This is due to underlying price movements in both countries, alongside movements in exchange rates.

• In 2023 the exchange rate has helped maintain Australia’s global competitiveness.

In the 2000s, Australian cattle prices were tied closely to prices in Brazil and other South American beef exporting countries. This began to change in 2015, when the price of Australian cattle rose and a substantial premium developed.

Price movements

Over the past year, the Australian heavy steer indicator has fallen by slightly more than 50%, while the Brazilian heavy steer price has stayed reasonably consistent.

This has brought the two countries’ cattle prices much closer together than in the past several years.

This turnaround in

pricing has mostly been due to the decline in underlying Australian prices, but an important additional factor has been cha nges t o the exchange rates in both countries.

Exchange rates

Australia’s economy has performed strongly over the past decade compared to the global av e r a g e , wh i c h h a s pushed our exchange rate well above historic averages. The effect of this has been to make impor ts relatively cheaper in Australia but push up the price of our exports on the global market.

By contrast, the

opposite has occurred in Brazil, where the economy h a s u nder p er for me d and the real, Brazil’s currency, lost around 60% of its value between 2012 and 2022.

This has meant that Brazilian cattle were cheap in global terms, while Australian cattle were expensive.

While this didn’t affect Australia’s export mix that much, it did affect Brazil’s. Export markets became more attractive than the domestic market for many processors, and domestic consumption fel l by 2 0 % over the decade.

S i nc e t he st a r t of 2 023 , this trend has

reversed slightly. The Australian dollar fell by 5% compared to the US dollar from the start of the year to October, while the Brazilian real rose by 5%, which effectively meant that Australian cattle received a 10% discount on the global market over their Brazilian counterparts compared to the start of the year.

price in instances where Brazilian exports would have other w ise been attractive, which should b e u s e f u l a s e x p or t volumes continue to rise.

T he excha nge rat e is famously difficult to

predict, so it is not clear how long the positive ef fe c t s of a sl i g ht ly weaker Australian dollar on exports will last. At the same time, the exchange rate as it cu r rently sta nds

positions Australia well in the global market and could be helpful over c om i n g m o nt h s a nd years.

Tim Jackson Global Supply Analyst

Looking forward

While marginal, the weaker exchange rate b e n e f it s A u s t r a l i a n exporters and ultimately d r ives demand for Australian red meat.

In particular, it should allow Australian exports to compete on

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COONABARABRAN CUP: SUNDAY, 22 OCTOBER 2023

Racegoers embrace colour for the Cup From princesses and princes to Mary Poppins, this year’s fashion candidates went all out at the annual Coonabarabran Cup race meet.

by KAYLA HARRIS All ages and personal styles were represented in this year’s Fashion on the Field (FOTF) competition, from the gorgeous little Turf Tots to the dignified Silver Selection.

This year, Abby Baker, Lachlan Cusack, and Dimit y Douglas took on the responsibility of judging – and did not disappoint.

W i t h h i g h s ta n d a r d s across the board, it was a tough competition this year, however, the winners rightfully deser ved their titles.

Tu r f Tot P r i n ce s s wa s a wa rded to Adela ide Mudford, from Gilgandra, while the outstanding Turf Tot Prince was crowned to Jalen Ankrett, from the Central Coast.

These gorgeous toddlers took the judges by surprise with their adorable ageappropriate outfits.

“She looked happy in flat shoes,” said Sarah Baglee, FOTF coordinator.

While there were no local w inner s in this section, Coonabarabran dominated this year’s teen selection, with Indi Williams and Austin Alberts taking the lead in the competition.

H o w e v e r, t h e competition in this section wa s l a ck i n g , w i t h o n l y one boy and three girls participating.

“It was extremely

d i s a p p o i nt i n g , s o t h a t catego r y w i l l now be scrapped next year,” Mrs Baglee said.

The title of Filly on the Field for a visitor and a local, were won by Tahlia Hen r y, from Newcastle, a n d J e s s S k i n n e r, f ro m Mendooran, respectively.

“I laughed, because I’d seen photos of Jess two d a y s ea r l i e r a n d s h e’d gone out and shot 25 pigs with the rifle,” Mrs Baglee said.

One point to feminism – showing that country girls can w ield both a k n ife and a clutch purse while l ook i ng stunn i ng doi ng both!

The gorgeous winner of Colt on the Course was H a r r y D uncom be, f rom Binnaway.

The Gent of Fashion was awarded to the stylish Doug King, from Coonabarabran, for his stunning attire.

“I was quite disappointed with the numbers in the male section this year,” said Mrs Baglee.

“I really found the n u m b e r s ove ra l l to b e down this year.”

The Lady of Style titles were taken by E l len G r if f iths, from Mudgee, with Larissa Wilkin, from Coonabarabran, the local winner “Larissa attracted the judges’ attention with her beautiful home-made

6 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 26th October 2023

dress,” Mrs Baglee said.

“This year, home-made dresses and a large selection of colours filled the crowd. “ I found the re was a beautiful range of colours t h i s ye a r, w i t h v i b r a nt o ranges and aquas, as well as beautiful pastels such as baby blues and light lemons.”

There was a large number of participants this year for the Silver Selection, designed specifically for the over sixties population.

“I think once you get to your sixties your fashion sense doesn’t die, you get more in tune with it,” Mrs Baglee commented.

The winners of this section were Charmaine Ledden, from Coonamble, and Ashley Scifleet, from Dubbo, with their gorgeous outfits.

Fashion winners this year received var ious pr izes, from flowers and wine to cash.

“The Coonaba rab ran ra ce m eet i s a l l a b o ut countr y people getting out, having a good time dressing up, drinking and punting,” Mrs Baglee said.

“Racing might not be fo r eve r yone, but the social isi ng and the fashions are the additional elements that make the Coonabarabran Cup so different.

“I’ve been involved in the

Coonabarabran Jockey Club for over 15 years,” she said.

“Back when I was younger, it was daunting starting out as it was all men in the Jockey Club, besides Helen Wilson and myself.

“I remember saying to them that I wanted to start Fashion on the Field, but they said no.

“I was dete r mined, s o I s a i d t h at t h e g i r l s wou ld come and d res s up and they’d bring their boyfriends who would drink and punt, so they’d make money.”

Mrs Baglee said she faced various challenges in creating the incredible Fashion on the Field event – now such a popular addition to the Coonabarabran Cup. “ I h a d to h u nt d ow n sponsors and figure out how to organise ever ything,” she said.

“Later on, I wanted a stage built, so the Men’s Shed created one for me, and soon I hope to get a banner to put at the back.”

While Sarah Baglee has done a terrific job as the coordinator for the Fashion on the Field, she has now decided to step down and hand the reins over to the “brilliant Abby Baker”, who she said will continue to bring this community event to every Coonabarabran Cup.

Former Coonabarabran resident, Ellen Griffiths, claimed Lady of Style (visitor) at this year’s Coonabarabran Cup. Photo: Sarah Baglee

COONABARABRAN CUP: SUNDAY, 22 OCTOBER 2023

Leanne Redfern and Janette Barkley.

Allison Crawley and Kallee Crawley.

Matson Ayoub and Isobelle Deshon.

Mel Evans and Ebony Whalan.

Nathan Harris, Baradine Jockey Club president, and Adam Freeman, Coonabarabran Jockey Club president, display the trophies for the Baradine Cup and the Coonabarabran Showcase Cup. Photo: Jess Richards – Dusty Shots

Justin Wright and Lachlan Cusack.

Ally Richards, Jimmy Whalan and Claudia Eastburn.

Jada Kuras, Rya Cain and Laynee Cain.

7 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 26th October 2023

Back (l-r): Luke Samsonnight, James Maclin, Tim French and Ben Davis. Front: Jason Fulwood, Molly Mathews, Bella Willoughby and Hannah Harris.

Madison Vine, Kristie Liddell, Tleena Ankrett, Sheridan Vine, Larissa Wilkin, Kaysey Monden, Jamie Carter and Amelia Stephan-Gartland (front).

Photos: Jimmy Whalan

Centenarian has an enduring love for the land A local World War II veteran and former grazier has celebrated a landmark birthday.

by LIZ CUTTS Hilton Pickette turned 10 0 years old surrounded by family, friends and loved ones at a lunch held at the Coonabarabran Club on Saturday, 14 October.

Hilton’s son, David said it was an honour to be able to wish his father a happy 100th birthday.

“ Dad is the last of seven children,” David said. “ He went to school f i r st i n L ong R idge , Purlewaugh, and then went to live in Sydney with his sister and to attend Balgowlah High School when his father p a s s e d aw ay. A f t e r get t i ng h i s le av i ng certif icate he worked

at A nt hony Hor der n a nd S on depa r tment store, where he learned about tea blending and tasting. “ He enlisted in the army in 1942, serving in New Guinea and Japan.

R e t u r n i n g f r om t he war he worked on cattle proper ties w ith h is brothers near Kempsey and around Inverell.

“ He pu r c h a s e d 6 5 acres at Ulamambri in 1952, got married and had five children. He then purchased another 100 acres to add onto his block, which he sold and moved to ‘Merriview’ in P u rlewaugh in 195 4 .

He sold this property in 1965 to buy ‘Ellerslie’ at Kenebri, followed by the purchase of another

block east of Gwabegar in 1970.

“In 1978 Dad bought a pr op er t y w it h h i s cousin on the Narran River, near Angledool; he a lways wa nted t o have a go farming on black soil. He sold that property in 1987 and bought a small farm at Geurie.

“This is where he was

supposed to retire, but he kept farming, feeding cows, cutting burrs and planting trees for the next 36 years – so you can see he has always had a love for the land even though he has seen some dreadful droughts, floods and grasshopper plagues.”

David said his father attr ibuted his

longev ity t o eati ng plain food without any spices, brew i ng you r tea properly, exercising regularly – and by that he means swinging an axe, using wire strainers and chipping burrs. He advocates the benefits of having a rum on frosty winter mornings, after milking the cows, and before breakfast!

Hilton Pickette celebrated his 100th birthday with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Hilton Pickette was delighted to show his birthday greetings from the King and the Queen Consort.

New one dollar coins Keep an eye out in your change! Newly-minted one dollar coins will soon feature the effigy of King Charles III, with coins expected to enter circulation by the end of the year.

by JIMMY WHALAN The image of His Majesty King Charles III was released by the Albanese Government on Thursday, 5 October, with the new effigy designed by the Royal Mint in London.

Circulation of these new K ing Charles c oi ns w i l l b e g i n with the one dollar coins, which will begin to pop up in banks and shops across Australia before Christmas.

O ther c oi ns w i l l begin to circulate from 2024 based on bank demand.

Royal Australian Mint CEO, Leigh Gordon said the question of when the King will appear on our coins has been 8 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 26th October 2023

one of those most frequently asked since the passing of Queen Elizabeth II last year.

“A s Australia’s circulating coi n ma nu factu rer, we appre ciat e the importance of the transition and we are applying our c o n s i d e r a bl e skill and expertise producing Australia’s c o i n s bearing the new r oya l effigy,” Mr Gordon said.

“The staff at the M int has been very deliberate and measured in the steps to date, and we are now well positioned to expand into production.”

Mr Gordon said Australians can be rest assured that all existing coins featuring the late Queen’s image can continue to be used.

WORD

for WORD

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...

ANDY PENKOW Coonabarabran holds a special place in the heart of Country musician Andy Penkow, who will return to perform at the Bungle Rumble Concert in November, sharing his hit single about the town – Aussie Rain.

by GEORGIA SPENCE While the forecast for Coonabarabran is for a hot, dry summer season, Andy Penkow’s performance at Bungle Rumble may bring a sentimental type of Aussie rain.

Mr Penkow has visited Coonabarabran twice this year; initially visiting to film his music video and hit single, Aussie Rain.

The single, released on 11 August as an expression of Mr Penkow’s connection to Coonabarabran, highlighted aspects of the town’s history and culture, reaching number one on the Australian Country Music Chart.

This latest success brings Mr Penkow’s list of number-one hit singles to the impressive total of eight.

He has since been touring the country, with Aussie Rain played everywhere he goes.

“Everyone who has heard the song has come up to me and had some kind of comment of their experience growing up in a small town, or have actually been to Coonabarabran,” he said.

Mr Penkow is preparing for an uplifting performance at the Bungle Rumble, where he hopes to include the audience through a singalong of Aussie Rain, covering wellknown Country songs and sharing many of his new and old original tunes.

Events such as the Bungle Rumble are as important for musicians, as for a town.

Mr Penkow feels events such as this unites communities from far and wide and said it is important for small towns to hold music events – big and small.

“Music is one of those things that does not discriminate. It brings people together,” he said.

Throughout his recent tours, Mr Penkow has met people from as far as Queensland planning to travel to Coonabarabran for Bungle Rumble.

Recently, while touring the Northern Territory and across the nation, Mr Penkow discovered many unique, small towns.

“Country towns provide a sense of relief for many, as they step into a place of comfort

Peter Nelson’s

WEATHER WATCH It has continued to be notably dry over a huge area of the nation. Two places of interest have had one of their driest June-to-September periods on record.

At Yamba, the Juneto-September period this year at 70.4mms was almost the driest in 146 years, just shy of the 1905 record of 70.2mms.

The early part of 1904 up to May was much wetter than usual at Yamba, which also did happen from February to May last year. It was notably very dry and hotter than usual from November 1905 right through to early March 1906 in our region, then

widespread, heavy rain arrived during the first week of March 1906 with some areas having major floods.

The heavy rain arrived at both Charleville and Roma much earlier at the beginning of February 1906 and by 2 March 1906 both towns had recorded 400mms rainfalls.

It was interesting to note during that summer in Victoria, Mildura recorded a maximum temperature of 50.7 degrees on 23 January 1906.

Casino, west of Lismore, has also recorded only 42mms this year during June to September.

and community,” he said.

“Stepping away from the everyday grind of city life, provides a sense of peace.”

The people, the buildings and the history of a town are often observed by Mr Penkow through his music and these experiences will be reflected as he proceeds to record his third album.

A new single is around the corner, along with performances at

Tamworth Country and Music Festival in January.

Coonabarabran has struck a chord with Mr Penkow.

His performance at the Bungle Rumble will include a three piece ensemble and will highlight his country spirit.

“It is going to be a lot of fun. Ol’ Coonabarabran definitely holds a soft spot in my heart.”

D o you h a ve a n i ck n a m e? My friends call me Nay, but family call me Naomi.

H o w d i d yo u co m e t o l i ve i n Coonabarabran? I was born and raised in Coonabarabran until I finished high school, and moved to Newcastle to start university. I have recently moved back with my husband and son, to be closer to my family after my Dad passed away last year.

What ’s the most interesting job you’ve ever had? I was a people and culture manager for a large multistate patisserie company famous for the strawberry watermelon cake, where we opened a production k itchen and sto re i n Shangha i, China!

You’ve had a stressful day – what’s your way of winding down? I like it when I get home from work and my son and I sit at the kitchen bench while we watch my husband cook dinner. There’s something really comfor ting about coming back together after a hectic day.

How would your friends and family d e s c r i b e yo u i n t h r e e wo r d s?

Passionate, creative and fun.

What is your favourite season and why? I love springtime, where the trees and g rass become g reen again after the colder months.

D o you h a ve a n i n t e res t i n g o r random fact to share? I can say the alphabet back wards in five seconds!

What gets you through a long road trip? I listen to podcasts or 80s/90s music.

Have you read any good books lately? I’m currently studying my MBA, so am reading books and ar ticles on leadership. ‘Dare to Lead’ by Brené Brown is an excellent read.

What is something people might not know about you? I really enjoy p a i nt i n g a n d c re at i n g . I h a ve recently started painting with oil on canvas.

If you could pick a decade to visit on a time machine what would it be? Maybe back only a couple of decades when life was a little simpler and less busy!

What’s the most used emojis on your phone? The laugh and heart emojis.

If you could have anyone around for dinner who would it be? It would be all my family – I have four sisters and a brother and their partners and children, so would be a big affair!

What would you cook t hem? A barbecue in the afternoon, while the kids play in the pool.

When was the last time you had a really good laugh? With my Mum and sister, Keira, over a cup of tea.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? Keep your ambition and direction clear – advice from my Dad. Who should we chat to next? I’d like to nominate family friend and allround great bloke, Keith Hull.

Andy Penkow is part of the Bungle Rumble line up, where he will perform his new hit song, “Aussie Rain”.

This was the driest for this period since 34mms in 2004. Other dry June to September periods at Casino in the last 161 years were in 1905, 1947, 1953, 1994 and 1995.

The late spring and summer out of these cases tended to be warmer than usual with the heaviest rainfalls being in November and in February.

The trouble spot has been at Cocos Keeling Island, where the Julyto-October period this year to 22 October has recorded 61mms and does look set to be the driest in 122 years of records, breaking the previous driest such period of 71mms in 1986.

Both January and February 1987 saw high temperatures in our region with rainfalls a little above average, but March 1987 was colder and very wet at many towns.

During this month, Cocos Island recorded a maximum temperature

of 25.2 degrees on 8 October, its lowest maximum for October and equal to that of both 1955 and 1956.

On 5 October the overnight minimum temperature fell to 23.3 degrees. This was not only the lowest temperature ever recorded in November, but the lowest ever temperature in any month. The previous lowest temperature was 3.9 degrees in both July 1955 and July 1956.

Melbourne has recorded its coldest October since 2003, but from November 2003 up to February 2004 it was notably warmer than normal.

It was also dry until heavy rain arrived during the third week of January, due to a monsoonal low which came from Queensland.

Further heavy rain arrived near end of Fe b r ua r y 2 0 0 4 , ju s t after 41.3 degrees on 18 February.

NAOMI TAYLOR

• 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 ‘ngamurr’ meaning ‘daughter’.

‘ngamurr’ – daughter

9 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 26th October 2023

CLASSIFIEDS

•PUBLIC NOTICE

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COONABARABRAN SENIOR CITIZENS ASSOCIATION is celebrating

40 years of operation in Coonabarabran Join with us and help celebrate on

Monday, 6th November From 10am – CWA Hall Cassilis Street, Coonabarabran ALL WELCOME

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02 6842 1844

info@coonabarabrantimes.com www.coonabarabrantimes.com •POSITION VACANT POSITION VACANT Enthusiastic, reliable and honest person required for a PART-TIME TO FULL-TIME POSITION Must be available for shifts between 7.30am - 5.30pm Monday to Friday, plus weekends on a rotating roster PLEASE EMAIL RESUME TO: coona@bigpond.net.au

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PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE TELSTRA MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT COOLAH Telstra plans to upgrade an existing telecommunications facility located at Off Black Stump Way, Coolah NSW 2843 (LOT 7300 Plan DP1150467) www.rfnsa.com.au/2843005 1. Telstra are currently upgrading existing mobile network facilities to introduce 5G to its network. As part of this network upgrade, Telstra proposes the installation of LTE700 and NR/WCDMA850 at COOLAH. Proposed works at the above site will involve the Removal of nine (9) existing panel antennas, Installation of six (6) new panel antennas (each no longer than 2.8m) and Installation of associated ancillary equipment at the existing facility and within the equipment shelter.

2. To improve Telstra’s mobile phone network.

3. Telstra regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility in accordance with the Telecommunications (Low-impact facilities) Determination 2018 based on the description above.

4. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information or written submissions should be directed to Ryan Wong, BMM Group via email to: submissions@bmmgroup.com.au or 1300 260 834 by 10th November 2023.

•PUBLIC NOTICE

at Roachs Hardware (old store) Cassilis Street, Coonabarabran

COONABARABRAN HIGH SCHOOL

School Blue Awards, 2023

“Nomination Forms” for the Coonabarabran High School P&C Blue Awards can be obtained from the office at the High School.

Your purchase assists Rotary Community Service Projects

Nominations close 3.00pm Thursday, 23rd November 2023 and can be returned to the High School office.

•PUBLIC NOTICE

Passed away 14th October 2023

THANK YOU The family of the late Ronald Forrest would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of Baradine Hospital and Multi Purpose Hostel for the care and kindness shown to Ronald over the many years in your care.

Tony Brain for his religious service, Baradine CWA ladies for catering, and Baradine Bowling Club for use of the club’s facilities.

Philpott Funerals for compassion and care, friends and relatives who attended Ronald’s funeral.

Much appreciated, many thanks to you all.

•PUBLIC NOTICE The Coonabarabran Times is bound by the Standards of Practice of the Australian Press Council. If you believe the Standards may have been breached, you may approach the newspaper itself or contact the Council by email (info@ presscouncil.org.au) or by phone (02 9261 1930).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION SEE: www.presscouncil.org.au

•PUBLIC NOTICE

Loved son of Bill (dec) and Rita.

Loved brother of Ken, Peter, Brett and families.

A Graveside Service for Neil will be held on Thursday, 2nd November commencing at 11.00am at the Native Grove Cemetery, Coonabarabran.

CASTLEREAGH FUNERALS & MONUMENTS P/L Coonabarabran Phone 6842 1248 ~ FDA

SPANLINE REP IN AREA NEXT WEEK • Patios • Rooms • Cladding • Carports BL83737C

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from Tony Brain

OPEN: 9.30am - 5pm Week Days

9am - 12 noon Saturday mornings

Aged 56 years Late of Gunnedah Formerly of Ulamambri

•DEATH / FUNERAL NOTICE

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ROTARY BOOK SHOP

ENGLAND: Neil Owen

•THANKS NOTICE

To be eligible, the person nominated must be a student at Coonabarabran High School. Teams may also be nominated.

The criteria for consideration for an award is for outstanding achievement in a school-based or school-related activity, in any of the following areas: 1. ACADEMIC HSC ATAR Result 95 or higher Top 10 in HSC State Subject List (HSC Awards will apply to students of the previous year’s HSC) A minimum of 3 High Distinctions in National or International Competitions in different subject areas 2. SPORTING 1st, 2nd or 3rd in State Competitions State or National Individual or Team Representative 3. OTHER FIELDS OF ENDEAVOUR 1st, 2nd or 3rd at State/National level or attainment of excellence consistent with the rigor above, e.g. Whitlam Institute National Writing Competition, HSC Selection for participation in Art Express State Tour, Design/Industrial Technology display Powerhouse Museum and Music Encore Concert at the Sydney Opera House NOTE: Consideration will be dependant on the number and quality of competitors in the nominated field of endeavour, and provided such achievement also reflects positive attitudes and participation in the school community.

10 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 26th October 2023

DEATH / FUNERAL NOTICE

BUNTING: Maxwell Ernest Aged 72 years Late of Coonabarabran Passed away on 17th October 2023 Dearly loved husband of Kerrie.

Much loved father of Danielle, Pat, Kylie, Keith and their families.

Loving Pop to his grandchildren.

A Funeral Service for Max will be held on Friday, 3rd November commencing at 11.00am in the Native Grove Cemetery, Coonabarabran.

Following the Service, Max will be privately cremated.

CASTLEREAGH FUNERALS & MONUMENTS P/L Coonabarabran Phone 6842 1248 ~ FDA

Then the Lord God formed the man from the dust of the ground. God breathed the breath of life into the man’s nostrils, and the man became a living person.

Genesis 2:7

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28th October 9am – 12 noon

•MEETING NOTICE CAMP CYPRESS LTD

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING MONDAY

30th October 2023

6.00 pm AT CAMP CYPRESS BARADINE

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ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING WEDNESDAY

8th November 2023

6.00 pm NO. 3 OVAL COONABARABRAN

ST LAWRENCE’S CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL

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Now taking enrolments for all grades K-6 for 2024

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

PHONE 6842 1732 for further information

COONABARABRAN ARTS COUNCIL

WEDNESDAY

15th November 2023

5.30 pm FLIX THEATRE Community Service Building All Welcome

AROUND THE SCHOOLS Coonabarabran High The Year 12 English studies class recently emba rke d on a t wo day excursion to Newcastle, culminating i n the u n forget t able experience of witnessing the “ Billy Elliot ” musical.

This excursion exemplified the dynamic nature of English Studies, offering students both cultural enrichment and a profound insight into the practical application of classroom learning.

O n T u e s d a y, 17 November, our students journeyed to Newcastle, known for its vibrant a r ts scene. Students then had the option to enjoy either the Barbie movie with Ms Doolan and Miss Mulveney, or

engage in a competitive game of ten-pin bowling and putt-putt with Dean McKernan and Ms Barisa. Special mention goes to Toby Kelly and R i ley M i l ls who won ten-pin bowling.

The next morning, the students began with a sunny beach walk along the icon ic Newcastle Memorial Walk. Later, they donned some more formal attire, and they attended the Newcastle Civic Theatre for “Billy Elliot”.

W hat set this excursion apart was the students’ unwavering respect and engagement throughout the musical.

D r aw i n g up on t hei r classroom discussions of themes like hegemonic masculinity

and perseverance, prev iously ex plored i n class th rough the “Billy Elliot” film, they actively connected the dots.

T h i s o ut i n g exemplified how English stud ies tra nscends t ex tbooks, br i ng i ng l it er at u r e t o l i fe. It nurtured intellectual curiosity, demonstrating that literature and the arts are windows into society's struggles and triumphs.

The Newcastle excursion enriched our s t ude nt s c u lt u r a l ly, while deepening their appreciation for English studies, showcasing the s e a m le s s c on ne c t ion between classroom knowledge and the vivid world outside.

Year 12 English studies class enjoyed the “Billy Elliot” musical at Newcastle.

Saint Lawrence’s Success at Polding Athletics Cong ratulations to the four St L aw r enc e ’s st udent s who p a r t i c ip at e d i n the Polding Athletics Carnival at Homebush last week.

L iam K a ravas was selected to compete in the long ju mp, L i l ly Hu nt er the d i s c us , Daley Flood the 100m spr i nt , a nd Hen ley Flood competed in the 10 0 m a nd t he 2 0 0 m sprint.

S p e c i a l cong ratu lations t o Henley F lood who received a bronze medal in the 200-metre event; he w i l l now compete next week in the PSSA carnival.

Well done to all four students.

Tooraweenah Public Transition to School Transition to School continues to offer our Kindergarten students for 2024 the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the Kindergarten classroom and school routines whilst getting to know their new teachers.

Monday sessions will continue until 6 November.

We are greatly enjoying getting to know our transition students and how to best to support them in their learning. A great day was had by all!

Technology fun Last Friday, students got their first taste of the new, T4L Junior Explorer Kit from the Department of Education’s shared library.

The robots, from the kit are called Sphero Indi.

Indi has a bright light and colour sensor underneath that detects the colour on each tile.

Students experimented with how to operate the robot using the coloured tiles.

One challenge was to get Indi to travel the furthest distance with just three green tiles. Eliana Smith achieved the longest distance at a length of 3.65m.

Parents who are at school any Friday are welcome to see Indi in action between recess and lunchtime.

Eliana Smith achieved the longest travel with robot ‘Sphero Indi’ using only three green mats.

11 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 26th October 2023

Transition and Kindergarten students at Tooraweenah Public School.

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Local people. Local news.

12 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 26th October 2023

Office: 02 6742 2570 or Julia: 0408 535 083 admin@mandmpestcontrol.net.au www.mandmpestcontrol.net.au Find us on Facebook

The Warrumbungle National Park Trust 1972 I was appointed to t h e Wa r r u m b u n g l e Nationa l Pa rk T r ust in 1972 , si x years after I began working in Coonabarabran as sh i re eng i neer t o Coonabarabran Shire Council. I have already outlined my v isits to the Park in 1959/60 and can happily state that my absence in Cooma for five years had not quelled my interest in the Wa r r u mbu ngles.

It was probably th is interest that attracted me to the position of shire engineer, because I always wanted to manage the engineering duties of a shire with mountains and landscapes.

Coonabarabran Shire suited this need.

During my first six ye a r s , I v i sit ed a nd walked the Park on many occasions. I also became friends with Alec Gould, who had retired as shire clerk to Coonabarabran Shire Council in 1962.

He was still secretary of the Park Trust and also manager of the Siding S pr i n g O b s e r v at o r y complex.

Lester Wong See was then the shire clerk and he was also a busy and w illing volunteer for working bees in the Park.

Alec eventually talked me into nominating for the Trust to take Keith B l ac k m a n’s p o s it ion when he retired. Roy

Q u i nt on , the T r ust cha i rma n , was my neighbour and also a Shire councillor, so I had plenty of encouragement for my application.

My first meeting was held in one of the trams i n C a nyon C a mp on January 1973. The group photographs show the members of the Trust at that time.

From 1972 to 1977, T r ust meetings were held every three months, usually on a working d ay. C o on a ba r a br a n S h i r e p er m it t e d my attendance as one of their representatives, because all three councils not only supported the Park, but also made financial c o nt r i but i o n s t o it s operations. There were always two councillors from each shire on the Trust, six out of the total commitment of 12. I was never cer tain what I represented, but A lec had no problem getting me appointed. I was, at that time, a member of the National Parks Association of NSW, but I was not asked by that organisation to represent their views. They were more i nterested i n their Blue Mountains and coastal parks. The meetings were conducted in a similar fashion to Local Government.

At that time there were six trams, a rangers’ cottage a nd k iosk , a

toilet and shower block, all located in Canyon Camp. Dick Duggan was the senior ranger and he and June lived full time in the cottage. Camping facilities were located at Camp Pincham, Canyon Camp and Burbie Spring.

The house at Strathmore did not become available u nti l 19 81 a nd the Greenslopes shack in 1986. Trail building had ceased as the limited finance available went to camping facilities and trail maintenance.

T h e N e w e l l H ighway was sea led from Gilgand ra to C o onaba rabra n a nd f rom the h ighway t o Tooraweenah. The road f rom C o onaba rabra n was sealed to the Park boundary but the road west through to Gumin and Tooraweenah was still black soil.

The Prison Farm I n 19 71 the T r ust r e c e i v e d a pr o p o s a l from the Department of Corrective Services to establish a Prison Farm in the Park. The object was to provide labour for the ma i nt ena nce a nd c o n s t r u c t i o n o f trails and other labour intensive works. It was s o o n e s t a bl i s h e d at Strathmore homestead, which had been renovated with new kitchen facilities, accommodation and a workshop for up to 16 prisoners and two

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

wardens.

The system operated successfully until November 1974, when it became apparent that the prisoners liked it too much and wardens c ou ld n’t be fou nd t o super v ise the more di ff icult-to-handle pr i s oner s . T hey h ad begun to manufacture weapons and some of them intended to escape,

even though they were low security, short-term inmates. No new trails were constructed, but the trail system and Park amenities received excellent maintenance for that period of three years. It really was a holiday camp for the prisoners.

I made a few visits to Strathmore during this period and there

was never any sense of danger or threat from the inmates. One would usually be invited for morning tea or lunch and on many occasions the wardens left the prisoners to themselves to visit entertainment activities in Coonabarabran. The T rust tried to retain the fa rm for obv ious reasons, but the costs of operating the facility

had apparently become too high.

A fter the farm was closed, and in the years following, small groups of prisoners did visit the Pa rk for spe cia l t ask s , but th is s o on ceased when other state bodies became aware of the prisoner utilisation system.

John Whitehead

The Trust in 1972: (l-r) John Whitehead, Alec Gould, Dick Duggan, Alan Clough, Ted Morrissey (sitting), Claude Stockings, Roy Quinton, Frank Bourke, Gordon Frend, Bert Cooke, Keith Blackman, Brendan O’Brien, Ron Dive. Taken outside the small display enclosure, now dismantled.

Local syndicate claws winning yabbie Westpac Rescue Helicopter’s Coonabarabran support group has raised over $8800 by racing yabbies.

by KAYLA HARRIS In the annual precurser to the Coona Cup, last Saturday the Coonabarabran Yabbie Racing committee combined with the Support Group to present an exciting day of racing.

T h e c l a w e d cr ustaceans, sourced locally, helped to raise thousands of dollars for t h e Wes t p a c Res cu e Helicopter – a vital, lifesaving service.

“A massive thank you to everyone that made the effort to come to the club and support the yabbie races,” sa id Amanda Suther land, Suppor t Group chairperson.

“A big shout out to David Grant, who took the reins this year as our auctioneer and did a fantastic job.”

The volunteers from t h e Ya b b i e R a c i n g

commit tee and the chopper Support Group all did a fantastic job of ensuring the event ran smoothly.

Winners of the 2023 Ya b b i e Cu p wa s t h e syndicate of Darky, Joal, B r yan, A l l an, Woody, And rew, and Macca, who won $3290 with their yabbie, ‘Flipper’.

At this year’s event, reco rd s we re b ro ke n when a syndicate from Louth purchased a y a b b i e f o r $13 5 0 , su r passing last yea r’s record of $720.

A n oth e r c rew f ro m the Merrylands Wolves Rugby Club even made the pilgr image from Sydney to attend t h e Ya b b i e Ra ce s i n Coonabarabran.

Congratulations to the winners and well done to the local community for supporting a great cause.

13 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 26th October 2023

Yabbie Races Committee members and Westpac Rescue Helicopter Support Group volunteers with the winning syndicate at this year’s Yabbie Races.

Scorched Land takes out Coona Cup Racing aficionados have been scouring the record books since Sunday, when Anna Roper rode Scorched Land to victory for Newcastle trainer Todd Howlett in the $75,000 Coonabarabran Bowling Club - Coonabarabran Showcase Cup.

by COL HODGES

Coonabarabran Workshop

A fortnight earlier, Anna Roper had won the Coonamble Cup on the Bjorn Baker, Warwick Farm-trained Hollywood Hero, and the quest is on to discover if an apprentice jockey has previously won the Cups double of Coonamble and Coonabarabran in the same year.

Adding further lustre to the 21-year-old rider’s achievements is the fact she rode the winners of the final three races (6, 7, 8) at Coonamble and the winners of races 5, 7, 8 at Coonabarabran.

The treble at Coonabarabran took the career tally for Anna Roper to 81 and she can no longer claim an apprentice’s allowance on country tracks.

Resuming race riding in July after an eight month absence due to serious injury, Anna Roper has been in sensational form and the wins at Coonabarabran on Scarzel, Scorched Land and Dirty Merchant were the result of outstanding rides.

Watch Me Rumble established an early fourlengths lead in the 1600 metres Coonabarabran Cup, followed by Osman and Torowoto, with Scorched Land midfield

and the favourite, Knife’s Edge, near the tail in a strung-out field.

Well rated by Jake Pracey-Holmes, Watch Me Rumble ($5) fought on gamely but was beaten two lengths by Scorched Land ($7.50), which chimed in halfway down the straight, while Deel Street (Clayton Gallagher, $14) came from back in the field with an inside run for third.

The other winners for Anna Roper were supplied by Scone trainer Cameron Crockett, beginning with Scarzel in the 1100 metres Barron’s Tyre and Mechanical Cup Day Showcase Sprint.

With the lead from the outset, Scarzel ($4.20) prevailed in a three-way photo finish over Moetta (Jake Pracey-Holmes, $18) and Ezekiel (Aaron Bullock, $1.85 favourite).

The Cameron Crockett trained Dirty Merchant (Anna Roper, $3.60 equal fav, in the 1200 metres Brad Edwards Air Conditioning Country Boosted Showcase Class 2 Plate, gained a rails’ run over the closing stages to beat Exonumia (Aaron Bullock, $3.60 equal fav) and Sisters Pick (Jayden Barrie, $12).

Making it four wins in succession, the Brett

Robb, Dubbo-trained Simply Xtravagant defeated a good field in the $40,000 Futurity Pastoral-Baradine Cup, run as a Showcase Benchmark 66 Handicap over 1400 metres.

Third to the home turn, Simply Xtravagant ($2.90 to $2.45 favourite) was switched around heels

by Clayton Gallagher and in a gripping finish lunged on the outside to beat Ringside (Jake Pracey-Holmes, $17) and Calgary King (Aaron Bullock, $3.40).

Clayton Gallagher, with very strong rides, also won on the debut maker Deion ($6) for Brett Robb, and on Foxy Baroness ($3.40), trained

by Connie Greig.

The other winners at the Cup meeting, which attracted the biggest crowd for several years, were Break Over (Jake Pracey-Holmes, $3.20 to $2 favourite), trained

by Clint Lundholm, and Titled Tycoon (Chelsea Hillier, $3 to $1.80 fav), trained by Rod Northam.

Narromine Races Saturday, 21 October Consistent galloper Nicator, in a thrilling finish, won the Dandy Cup before a big crowd on Saturday at the very well promoted Narromine meeting last Saturday.

Trained at Scone by

Stephen Jones, the sixyear-old Nicator took the record to four wins and 10 placings from 33 starts.

Veteran jockey Darryl “Digger” McLellan has been riding in great form and from a wide gate he quickly worked Nicator in to a good position, running fourth behind Zounile, Bonhomie and Cemented in the Benchmark 50, raced over 1600 metres.

Reaching the lead in the straight, Nicator ($6.50 to $10) lasted to win by a short half head from the fast-finishing Winter Moon (Mathew Cahill, $9), with a half length to the third-placed Zounile (Jake PraceyHolmes, $4.20).

Local trainer Wayne Collison won the Benchmark 50 Handicap with Luckyimwithaimee, ridden by Mathew Cahill, who has made a successful return after a lengthy time off with serious injuries from a race fall.

From the outside barrier in the 12-horse field, Cahill found the early lead on Luckyimwithaimee ($9), which held on to score in a three-way photo finish from Witness Collector (Andrew Banks, $6 to $4 favourite) and Flying Foxy (Shayleigh Ingelse,

$10).

Formerly from Coonamble and now a leading trainer at Wyong, Damien Lane won the Maiden Plate (1100 metres) with Alegna.

In front most of the way, Alegna (Jake Pracey-Holmes, $6) had two lengths to spare at the finish from Harry Tudor ($3.10 fav) and Violet And Blue (Mathew Cahill, $91).

Dubbo-based trainer Brett Robb and jockey Clayton Gallagher are a lethal force and they combined with Mr Invincible $4.60), which came from midfield to win the Class 1 Handicap from Really Motivated (Mikayla Weir, $7.50) and Chelsea Amanda (Darryl McLellan, $7.50).

Coming from off the pace, the Jeremy Sylvester, Cessnocktrained Cavalheiro (Kelsey Lenton, $11) won the 1300 metres Maiden Plate, while the Melissa Dennett, Tamworthtrained Takanakuy (Mikayla Weir, $7.50) also ran home strongly from back in the field to win the 800 metres Benchmark 58 Handicap. xxxx Racing at Bathurst TAB on Friday, 27 October, Mudgee on Saturday and Wellington TAB on Monday.

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Number 3, Scorched Land, ridden by Anna Roper, strides past the winning post in the Coonabarabran Bowling Club-Coonabarabran Showcase

Cup, with Watch Me Rumble crossing for second and Deel Street taking third position.

Photo: Jimmy Whalan

PO Box168, Coonabarabran Todd: 0408 236 547

COONA WASTE

Keith: 0417 465 475

Total Waste Management Email: todd.coonawaste@bigpond.com • Collection & Disposal of Commercial/Domestic Waste • NEW ... STUMP GRINDER • Green Waste Removal • Building Sites, House Clean-up Bins Parties or Functions • Water Flush Portable Toilets for hire - Short or long term • SEPTIC TANK CLEANING. EPA Lic. No. 12024 14 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 26th October 2023

Poor batting and fielding cricketers downfall Coonabarabran’s cricket team lost its second game of the season to Gilgandra’s Town Services at McGrane Oval, Gilgandra last Saturday, 21 October.

Town Services won the toss and elected to bat.

They made a great start, with openers Adam and Ash Hazelton putting on an opening stand of 78 before Adam was dismissed for 47 in the 14th over.

Ash went on to make 75 with Mick Roach, who scored 19, the only other significant contributor to the total.

The side was eventually bowled out in the 39th over for 181, a very good total.

Best bowling figures for Coona came from Lochlan Campbell, who took 5-33. Other wicket takers were Cameron Whittall (2-37), Jerico Chatfield (2-41) and Nick Willoughby (1-36).

Coona’s run chase started poorly and never recovered. They lost their first two wickets with the score on 10. While a reasonable partnership followed, when it finished with the score on 29, the side collapsed and was bowled out in the 17th

over for 57. Only Steve Hallett (15) and Nick Willoughby (10) reached double figures.

Successful bowlers for Town Services were Adam Hazelton (4-30), Jacob Wilson (2-15), Dale Parker (2-0), Mick Roach (1-4) and Andrew Alport (1-4) Coona’s performance was very disappointing.

They dropped at least five catches, most off Adam and Ash Hazelton.

Had these catches been taken, their run chase would have been reduced significantly and they may have had a chance of chasing down the runs. But of greater concern was the lack of application from the batsmen, many of whom were dismissed by poor shot selection.

The side now has a few weeks off for harvest break and hope to regroup and perform better in their next game against Gidgee in Coonamble on 11 November.

N.W.

Lochlan Campbell’s fine bowling was one of the few features for Coona in their match against Gilgandra last Saturday.

Grant boost for Little A’s Coonabarabran Little Athletics centre has been given a funding boost ahead of the 2023/24 season thanks to the latest round of grants from the Coles Little Athletics Community Fund.

The group, which trains at Coonabarabran’s number one oval, will receive $4200 to buy hurdles, javelins, discus, and marking pins to support its aspiring athletes and parent volunteers.

Coonabarabran Little Athletics president, Kallee

Crawley said the Coles g rant would improve training conditions for athletes at their growing club.

“With this grant we will purchase new equipment to help our athletes train at competition standards,” Mrs Crawley said.

“It will raise the level of professionalism and pride at our club, encouraging our athletes to give it their all when training and competing.”

Budding athletes Evie Crawley, Lacey and Hooper Stone and Darcy and Sophie Phillips enjoying the sessions at Coonabarabran Little Athletics.

15 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 26th October 2023

COONABARABRAN LADIES’ GOLF I must have offended the weatherman – he has shut down shop! I will have to work very hard to get him back onside. He really is a wonderful and muchneeded friend! Please forgive me and send a few (million) drops of moisture onto our very thirsty fairways.

The results from the Wednesday’s stableford played on 18 October gave Doreen Searle the win with 37 points – reducing her handicap by another shot!

Runner-up was Julie Shinton, 33 points, while Ja n K eppie t o ok the nearest the pin on the 4/13th hole.

Yesterday we played a nother stableford , results in next week’s Times.

Saturday, 28 October – the charity golf day for the Westpac Helicopter Service. The event is a four-person A mbrose.

Always a fun day and ver y wel l suppor t ed.

Get your teams together and support this very essential service. 11 am shotgun start, 18 holes i nc lude s a ba rb e c ue lunch – $25 per person.

We d ne s d ay, 1 a nd Saturday, 4 November (can you believe it?) – Williams’ Cup Monthly Medal. Graham and Judy are major sponsors of our club and we look forward to a crowded course for

this prestigious event.

Don’t forget, the Mixed Foursomes Championsh ips, 27 holes, will be played on

Sunday, 12 November.

R e s e r v e t he d at e : Saturday 25 November – Presentation Night.

Minnie and her mate

WEEKEND GOLF Coona Cup four-ball A good little field contested the Coona Cup four-ball even at the Coonabarabran Golf Club on Saturday, 21 October.

The winners were Anthony Jones and Frank Clifton. If you’d backed these guys at the start of the day you would have received great odds.

They won with a massive 46 points on a count back from Dave Stevenson and John Smith.

Coming in third were Aden Larance and Brad Weatherall with 42

points.

This weekend we play host to the Westpac chopper ambrose. Please ring the club and put your name down, bring some extra coins. Tee off will be a shotgun start at 11am. Hope to see as many people there as possible.

On 5 November, the club will host its first Sunday session with live music from a local band.

The bus will be running – more information next week.

Z.H.

VETERANS’ GOLF Ten veteran golfers played in the weekly competition at the Coonabarabran Golf Club on Tuesday, 17 October, which was the third round for the John Walker Trophy.

The winner in the daily competition was Mick Noy with a net 29, while

the runner-up was Steve Larance with a net 30.

Nearest to the pins were won by Mick Noy, Bill Brown and Bill Wilkin, while the long putt was won by Dave Bunyan.

Keep smiling when golfing.

W.B.

Assassins prove deadly in darts grand final In the grand final match played on We d n e s d a y, 18 O c to b e r, t h e B o w l o Assassins 6 (Luke Stanton 100 x 4) defeated the Bowlo Jokers 5 (Alex Nixon 140).

It was a ve r y cl ose game, w ith the A ssassins winning four games straight until the Jokers came back, winning two

games.

Assassins then won another game before the Jokers returned fire, winning three games and bringing the score to five-all.

However, the Assassins got on top when winning the final game and taking out the championship.

Bowlo Assassins, winners of the Coonabarabran Darts competition: Brad Milsom, Ricky Stewart, Brent Morrissey, Troy Brown, Todd Dundas, Luke Stanton and Caine Thompson.

Congratulations to the Assassins and commiserations to the Jokers.

Both teams played great darts and it was great to see a number of spectators cheering on the teams.

Thanks to Paul and Jason for scoring and their assistance at the match.

Coming events Men’s championships – 1 November. To be played at the Bowlo. Names in by 7pm, play starts 7.30pm.

Knockout competition – Wednesdays 8, 15 and 22 November.

Missile

Runners-up in the Coonabarabran Darts competition were the Bowlo Jokers: Glen Ruttley, Kingsley Cook, Caitlin Noakes, Eric Watton, Garry Neal, Randall Ruttley and Alex Nixon.

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16 - Coonabarabran Times, Thursday, 26th October 2023

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