Molong Express 4 March 2021

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Molong site to reveal secrets of traditional Wiradjuri burials

Last week, ground-breaking research on a Wiradjuri burial site at the Garra Travelling Stock Route commenced with the aim of revealing insights into traditional funeral practices. This research project highlights the importance of Aboriginal cultural heritage in the Central Tablelands.

A La Trobe University archaeology team used ground penetrating radar to locate burial sites, focusing initially on a carved tree, believed to mark the grave of a highly respected Aboriginal man.

Preceding the weeklong onground studies, Elders, members of the Aboriginal community, researchers, and Central Tablelands staff came together for a smoking ceremony and consultation.

Consultation with the Aboriginal community is critical to the project and it is important that they are able to oversee this research on what is a very special place.

A smoking ceremony took place prior to the commencement of the Garra TSR study

SEE FULL STORY PAGE 9

Molong Magpies new season

INSIDE

P7

Aged Care Royal Commission

P2 & 5 + Pages of news and features

Molong & District’s Own Real Estate Agent Local People ... Local Agents ... Local Expertise

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Supporting Molong and the community

KERRIANNE KELLY PROPERTY MANAGER 0432 649 274

MARK HOWES LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT 0427 668 880

42 BANK STREET, MOLONG PH: 02 6366 8800

JULIE KENT PROPERTY MANAGER 6366 8800

Dine & Discover NSW vouchers to be launched

The NSW Government is launching Dine & Discover NSW to encourage the community to get out and about, supporting dining, arts and tourism businesses and stimulating spending in the economy.

Initially the scheme will invite customers to use their vouchers with participating COVID Safe businesses, as part of a testing period, in The Rocks and Broken Hill in early February.

Dine & Discover NSW will then be piloted with a larger group in Sydney CBD, Northern Beaches and Bega Valley from late February.

The statewide rollout will commence in March.

How does Dine & Discover NSW work?

Every NSW resident aged 18 and over will be eligible for 4 $25 vouchers worth $100 in total.

The vouchers can be used at participating NSW businesses who are registered as COVID safe.

The Dine & Discover NSW vouchers will be divided into two

categories: 2 x $25 vouchers to be used for eating in at restaurants, cafes, bars, pubs and clubs from Monday to Thursday, excluding public holidays.

2 x $25 vouchers to be used for entertainment and recreation, including cultural institutions, live music, and arts venues, available 7 days a week, excluding public holidays.

How do I apply for the vouchers?

To participate in Dine & Discover NSW, you must have a MyServiceNSW account.

You can download the Service NSW app now and register for a MyServiceNSW account ahead of the vouchers becoming available.

Where can I use my vouchers?

You’ll be able to search for participating businesses where you can use your Dine & Discover NSW via the Service NSW app or on the ServiceNSW website. Vouchers must be redeemed in person at participating businesses and can only be used once.

Our Central Western Daily cousins published this fabulous concept for the old Orange Hospital site drawn up by Orange firm Adapative Architects. Orange City Council currently has a Development Control Plan for the site on public exhibition - with boring apartments. This plan has a hotel, corner pub, large tower, a row of terrace houses and central park. It would look great in Molong if it doesn’t get up.

Orange to Sydney bus service recommences March 8th

The Orange/Bathurst to Sydney InterCity Express coach service will soon be operating three days a week bound for Western and Central Sydney and the Airport!

Initially, it will be departing Orange/Bathurst Monday, Wednesday and Friday and returning the same days.

And as soon as the demand for travel increases, Australia Wide coaches intends

operating further days each week and hopefully back to a daily service.

The office will once again be open from 9:00 to 5:00 Monday to Friday from Monday 1 March 2021.

Pensioners respond to Aged Care Royal Commission’s report “The Australian Government’s initial response to the Aged Care Royal Commission’s final report indicates it is not taking the problems in aged care seriously”, said CPSA Policy Manager, Paul Versteege.

CPSA's responses to the Government's comments on the Aged Care Royal Commission's final report are listed below 1 - 6. CPSA responses can be quoted and attributed to CPSA Policy Manager Paul Versteege.

1. The Australian Government said: The Australian Government will immediately invest more than $18 million to enhance the oversight of the Government’s Home Care Packages Program, to deliver better value for senior Australians and the Australian taxpayer.

CPSA response: This money will stretch existing money for actual Home Care Packages as far as it will go, which is good, but as a response it is a total rejection of the Royal Commission’s recommendation to clear the Home Care Packages waiting list immediately and then keep it clear.

2. The Australian Government said: In response to the Royal Commission, the Government will immediately invest $92 million to create over 18,000 places for [personal care] workers [in home care] between now and mid-2023. The total value of measures to grow the skilled and professional aged care workforce is almost $92 million over four years.

CPSA response: 18,000 new, additional workers to deliver Home Care Packages (HCPs) over four years will

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have no effect on the HCP program capacity,. This is a rejection of the Royal Commissioners’ recommendations for the HCP program.

3. The Government said: Funding worth $32 million will immediately be allocated to enhancing the capacity of the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission and greater regulation around the use of restraints in care.

CPSA response: The over-use of physical and chemical restraints is down to lack of staff to manage residents with challenging behaviors. Increased policing is going to have limited to no positive effect and will not reduce the use of restraints materially.

4. The Government said: In response to the Royal Commission report, the Australian Government will immediately invest an additional $189.9 million for residential care providers to provide stability and maintain services while the Government considers the recommendations of the Royal Commission’s Final Report. This support equates to around $760 per resident in metropolitan residential aged care, and $1,145 for those in rural, regional and remote areas.

CPSA response: It’s not clear over what sort of period this assistance will be made available, but it equates to about 30 hours of care per metro resident and 46 hours of care for rural/regional/remote residents. Even if this is bridging funding until the May Budget, it is woefully inadequate.

5. The Government said: “Along with the measures

to further develop residential aged care governance, our Government is also strengthening the arm of the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, by appointing an Assistant Commissioner for Sector Capability with responsibility for leading a transformative change program.In response to the Royal Commission, the Government will immediately invest $30.1 million to strengthen the governance of aged care providers and legislative governance obligations on the sector.

CPSA response: Both Royal Commissioners have recommended the end of the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, both having concerns about the ACQSC’s independence. This is a rejection of not just one set of recommendations but two. However, the ACQSC is underfunded, like the aged care sector as a whole, so $30 million extra will not go astray.

6. The Government said: Minister Hunt also confirmed that work will immediately commence to replace the Aged Care Act 1997, providing a strong, fresh foundation to enable the reforms to be implemented and drive a cultural change with the focus on responding to the needs of senior Australians.

CPSA response: Replacement of the Aged Care 1997 is the first recommendation, supported by both Commissioners. We welcome the Government's response that it will start immediately on getting rid of the Aged Care Act by replacing it with legislation where people, not money and profits, come first.

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Visit all our listings at www.molongre.com.au 42 Bank Street, Molong

6366 8800 U O ND FF E E R R

BUILDING BLOCK OVER 5 ACRES IN MOLONG Small acreage blocks in Molong are very hard to find, this block is positioned overlooking Molong & only minutes to the main street shops & schools. Access is easy from Riddell Street with good sheltered building sites with established shady trees. Power is close by on Queen & Riddell Streets This is a Great opportunity to have your own Lifestyle property right in town.

For Sale $199,000 Mark Howes 0427 668 800

LI N S EW T IN G

CIRCA 1900S COUNTRY COTTAGE First homeowners looking to get in the

market here is a great opportunity to secure a cottage in a great location close to the main street shops & cafes in Molong. 3 Bedrooms, Sunny Northern back yard with rear yard access & plenty of space to build a shed.

• Cute country cottage with front bullnose verandas • Wide timber floorboards throughout the living areas • 3 bedrooms 2 with built in robes • Open plan spacious kitchen • Good size loungeroom with reverse cycle air • Shared bathroom & laundry space • Fully fenced & secured yard approx. 733 sqm For Sale $250,000 to $270,000 1 3 0 Mark Howes 0427 668 800

U O ND FF E E R R

CLOSE TO BURRENDONG DAM Only 15 Minutes to Burrendong Dam is an opportunity to own your very own weekender or your family home in an elevated rural setting with country views set on just over 8 Acres.

3-bedroom brick veneer with spacious living rooms with covered front & rear verandas.

• 3 bedroom all with built in robes • Open plan kitchen & family room • Good size lounge room with reverse cycle air • Large bathroom space with bath & separate shower • Colour bond 2 bay shed + skillion area with concrete floor & power • Water is sorted with 2 water tanks & a bore • Great lifestyle block with a large dam

For Sale $245,000 to $265,000 1 3 2 Mark Howes 0427 668 800

Molong & District’s Own Real Estate Agent Local People ... Local Agents ... Local Expertise

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KERRIANNE KELLY PROPERTY MANAGER 0432 649 274

MARK HOWES LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT 0427 668 880

42 BANK STREET, MOLONG PH: 02 6366 8800

JULIE KENT PROPERTY MANAGER 6366 8800

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 4 March 2021

3

News

Council to argue against steep RFS contributions

At its meeting on Tuesday Cabonne Council resolved to make representations to the Member for Orange, Minister for Local Government and Minister for Emergency Services, seeking a more sustainable funding model for increases in Rural Fire Service contributions.

Council has been told that its RFS funding contributions for 2021/2022 will increase by 35% from $437, 000 per annum to $675,000.

The total NSW RFS budget is allocated to the RFS zones based on long term averages.

Cabonne’s share of the Canobolas Zone (Blayney, Cowra, Orange City and Cabonne Councils), is calculated on the percentage basis based on the overall local government area.

Cabonne Council’s contribution for 2020/2021 was calculated as $655,439 being 35% of the Canobolas Zone Contribution of $1,872,682.

However this year the Office of Local Government issued a $622,571 rebate which is the second year this has been forthcoming.

Council was told that if such rebates are not forthcoming in future the rises in the annual RFS contribution will impact significantly on the operational expenses of Council.

The RFS advised that increases in the contribution from last year are due to the introduction of the Workers Compensation Legislation which provides the presumption where an employed or volunteer fire fighter contracts 1 of the 12 prescribed cancers, that the cancer is a work related injury.

NSW Councils generally are in support of this important recognition for RFS volunteers and employees, however LGNSW along with Country Mayors gives this support with the emphasis that the financial impost should not be “cost shifted” to the NSW Local Government sector.

The forecast increase for the 2021/2022 year

The Rotary Club of Molong is pleased to host Kate Gadsby to speak on Thursday 18th March at the RSL Auditorium at 7.30 pm. Everyone is invited.

Kate will speak on her latest book Convicts, Capitalists and Corruption which depicts the incredible hardships endured by convicts, settlers and Aborigines across the lands from Sydney to settlements at Bathurst through to Wellington.

Kate has spent a number of years researching and recording events in the Nubrygyn Districts and the stories of its first settlers and early colonisation'

if not subject to rebate equates to a cost greater than 2% of total general rate income for Cabonne Shire and will impact its bottom line.

The impacts, approximately $230k would fund 7kms of gravel road resheeting, or 3 full time equivalent entry level staff.

Cabonne Council supported action to seek assistance from the Office of Local Government in dealing with this impost. Council hopes Local Government can work with the State Government on a more equitable and sustainable approach to funding the important work of the NSW RFS. Funding emergency services has been an ongoing issue and councils have previously called for the abolishment of the Emergency Services Levy and replaced with a broad based property tax.

Local Governement NSW Association has recently lobbied on behalf of councils in submissions both to the NSW inquiry and the Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements.

LGNSW have sought that in the absence of a broad-based property levy, councils should be able to increase rates separate from the rate pegging process.

Cabonne Mayor Kevin Beatty has requested the matter be placed again on the agenda of Country Mayors Association and it is hoped that the Emergency Services Minister will attend its next meeting on 5 March 2021 to address member councils’ concerns.

Please contact Janis Glasson on 0427666776 or email ianis'glasson@live'com'au if you would like to attend.

Major upgrade of Age of Fishes Museum sought

Cabonne council will submit an application under Round 5 of the Building Better Regions Fund for the upgrade of Cabonne’s tourism showpiece, the Age of Fishes Museum in Canowindra.

Estimated to cost $1m, Council will provide approximately $500,000 as a co-contribution towards the cost of the project, should the application be successful, with the contribution potentially being funded by the Canowindra Town Improvement Fund Reserve in accordance with the adopted policy.

The Age of Fishes Museum (AOFM) Board and the AOFM Manager have been exploring options for the refurbishment and upgrade of the museum building over the past few years and have recently made significant progress in development of this project. The design work has been completed to plan delivery of the following upgrades: • a revised internal layout to improve museum flow and use of space • the addition of holographic

displays to modernize the museum offering • accessibility improvements to cater for all patrons and improve usage options for the museum • refurbishment of the building inside and out, to revitalise appearance and attract greater visitation • a new playground to enhance the child and family museum experience The Age of Fishes Museum was opened in 1999 as a newly constructed facility and it remains Cabonne’s key cultural attraction.

Although displays have been enhanced over the years there have not been any significant works carried out on the building since its opening.

Plans are underway to transition the management of the Age of Fishes Museum to a Cabonne Council entity. An initial meeting between AOF Board members and Council was held on 27 November 2020 to clarify roles, structure and timetable for the transition with the aim to have the transition in place by 1 July 2021.

Australian 3 Days Orienteering Championships to return to Molong

The Australian 3 Days Orienteering Championships Orienteering NSW Inc will return to the Pinecliffe & Gumble State forrests on 2-5 April.

This 3 day event is a World Ranking Event on the International Orienteering Calendar.

The event will take place at

multiple places around Molong.

An estimated 1000 competitors and spectators will converge on Molong across the 3 days with be significant potential to attract visitors to Molong and the the region.

Cabonne Council is supporting the event with a $500 contribution.

Molong Probus Club Mary Iffland

Newspapers in Education Cadia Valley Operations and the Central Western Daily

4 MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 4 March 2021

RM6782365

Expressions of interest are now open for Newcrest’s Fundraising Beyond the Curve program, supporting Charities, Not-for-profit Organisations or Associations whose fundraising revenue has been impacted by COVID-19. Find out more at bizhq.com.au

At our last meeting 33 members and guests went over to Manildra where we were joined by some of the Manildra Probus Group for lunch and to see the Movie Rams at the Manildra Amusu Theatre.

Our meeting this month is the AGM and all positions are open for nominations, our guest speaker

and Chair of the AGM wil be Kate Gadsby who has written a book about the history of Euchareena and the surrounding districts.

A reminder that our April meeting will be the car trial finishing with lunch, the cost of lunch will be $30.00 for a 2 course hot meal. I will need to know numbers no later than the 2nd of April.

Your say

THE PEOPLES VOICE IN CABONNE

Txt the editor

0492 439 786

HEY ! Are you over making great comments and posts on the zillions of Facebook sites around here?

Here's another way.

Send a text message to 0492 439 786 on whatever cheers you up or makes your blood boil.

They'll be read all over Orange & Cabonne.

Here's this weeks interesting crop..

Re: Private school bans boys mullet hair cuts.

In the year 2021, the era of gender bender, it’s absurd to believe anybody could have authority over hairstyles.

The Hair Dresser, Orange Do the anti-vaxxers understand that if they refuse to vaccinate they will only be affecting (infecting) anti-vaxxers!......

Marc, Molong Ever since the Royal Commission, young crims have pretty much had a licence to run amok right throughout Oz. When the Gov. took home discipline away from Parents it changed the entire family dynamics....... bring back the strap.

JC Molong.

I think it’s fascinating how political leaders know nuthin about scandals in their parties, until the media ask them about it. Sargent Shultz was a gr8 role model 4 these leaders Dave, Cabonne When I went to school back in the 80s, Parliament was known as the Bird Cage because there was a Peacock a Hawke and the other Galahs, now it's known as the Rape factory, where those who can Committ Indictable Offences get to walk free, how are we are from the Lucky Country suppose to trust our Law makers when this S#$t happens right in front of eyes and they (culprits) walk around with a smile from Sydney to Perth on their faces. I guess it's the 300,000 a year they earn that gives them the "Get out of Gaol card JL Molong Re: “Shivers! A lot of global warming happening in Texas” … Really?! Your sarcasm fails when it has been proven that there has been increasing average global temperatures that have resulted in changed weather patterns … like extreme cold snaps, heatwaves, floods and droughts..... Get with it, Greg, Manildra Lot of people saying we need herd immunity, first of all that idea is scientifically problematic and unethical. Letting covid 19 spread through populations of any age or health status will lead to unnecessary suffering and death. Humans are not guinea pigs but some politicians think we are.

ML Molong I am Freezing is Summer here yet.....!!!

PP, Cudal In my 55 years of walking on this Great Land of Oz, I still say it's the COOLEST Summer I've ever been through. Global Warming "NO", Weather Cycle "YES". Cool Summer Living, BTW the Indigenous People had the Weather Pattern right for 1000's of Years, maybe it's time we actually started Listening, but that will Never happen.....Molong.

I wonder if this winter is going to be wet and Freezing or Warm and Dry !!! Ya just never know these days-(seasons)... Jan Cumnock....

WOW !!... After weeks 'n' weeks of trying, I finally made it into the Molong Text the Editor.

About time JJ Orange

View from the Hill

Michelle Grattan

Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

Royal commission confronts Morrison government with call for aged care tax levy The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety has recommended a levy to help fund aged care on a sustainable basis, and given the federal government two radically different options for running a reformed system.

Releasing the multi-volume report on Monday, Prime Minister Scott Morrison played down the prospect of the government adopting the levy proposal, which would go against its mantra of not raising tax.

The commission’s long-awaited final report, titled Care, Dignity and Respect, with 148 recommendations, complicates the government’s already massive task in trying to overhaul what is recognised to be an ill-functioning system.

In some areas it leaves questions rather than provides answers – such as how much extra money will be needed.

In other areas, it invites difficult choices between competing options presented by the two commissioners, Tony Pagone and Lynelle Briggs. They have split on the fundamental issue of how best to administer the system, as well as on the best way to improve the present inadequate regulatory arrangements.

Aged care is a federal government responsibility and the pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities in the system, with the majority of COVID-19 deaths occurring among aged care residents.

In an immediate response to the commission report, the government announced $452 million over the

forward estimates, for limited initiatives in the areas of home care, residential aged care quality and safety, improving services in residential care; workforce growth, and governance measures.

The government’s main response is due at budget time. But much work will need to be done to craft a policy.

As expected, the commission is damning about the inadequacies in the present system.

“A profound shift is required in which the people receiving care are placed at the centre of a new aged care system.

In the words of one commentator, aged care does not ‘need renovations, it needs a rebuild’,” Pagone writes in his preface.

The commissioners found a “gloomy picture” of systemic problems. Many of the sector’s people and institutions “are overwhelmed, underfunded or out of their depth”.

Briggs said that at least one in three people accessing residential care or home care services “have experienced substandard care”.

The commissioners jointly call a new Aged Care Act putting older people first, entitling them to high quality and safe care based on their needs.

While both stress the need for fundamental change, Pagone argues the system should be run by an independent commission, while Briggs favours strengthening the existing system of government administration.

As Pagone writes the decision will be up to the government and, “The adoption of one model over the other will have consequences for many … of the recommendations we make.”

It would be a huge step for the government to go down the road of an independent commission.

Briggs argues that establishing a new Australian Aged Care Commission would only delay important reforms.

Such an arms-length body would also “weaken the direct accountability” of ministers for the quality of care.

Her alternative “Government Leadership” model would include greater independence in certain areas such as quality regulation and pricing, but maintain a strong federal government system leadership and stewardship role.

The commissioners propose tougher regulation of the system, with Pagone saying, “The move to ritualistic regulation was a natural consequence of the Government’s desire to restrain expenditure in aged care”.

(Continued page 9)

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 4 March 2021

5

Features

“The (Unsung) Superheroes of the Paddock”:

Central Tablelands Landcare Funded by NSW Environmental Trust for Winter Dung Beetle Project

Emily Gobourg talks to Geri Brown about these amazing critters

An important project said to investigate and inform people about the environmental wonders of dung beetles, Central Tablelands Landcare excitedly announced their successful involvement in gaining a grant from the NSW Environmental Trust (ET).

Molong’s Geri Brown, and Coordinator for Central Tablelands Landcare, said their ET-funded project, Dung Beetle Breeding Gone Wild, will teach people how to identify the beetle, and explain the phenomena of the insect – all simply by their burying of dung.

“These little critters can take dung down to a depth of 60cm and create tunnels that improve aeration, water infiltration and overall pasture productivity,” said Geri.

Though they don’t exactly top the list of prettiest subject matters, to understand the advantages of this beetle species are said to be a marvel worthy of recognition.

Building on previous workshops that Landcare have run across the Central Tablelands region, Geri described audience intrigue with these said little critters – who perform a mighty (and free) service to both landholders and the general public – as they also negate the number of flies we all have to endure each summer.

“The extra bonus is that adult dung beetles feed on dung juices, which are in direct competition with the Australian Bush Fly, which is also partial to dining on the same dung juice.”

According to Dung Beetle Ecosystem Engineers, when livestock excrement is buried by dung beetles, producers see: Reductions in diseases and pests (such as bush flies) Improvement of soil in grazing systems Increased pasture health, and Decreased nutrient run-off into waterways

The current issue, however, is that these insects are soil and climate-specific; which will see the need for a multipronged approach.

“We have identified approximately 12 different species which make their home in the Central Tablelands, but they are spring/summer active,” Geri explained.

“What we need is to identify and breed a species which will operate in the cooler months.”

With the support of landholders and schools, Geri said the view is to develop dung beetle nurseries in order to release the bubas bison beetle – a winter-active species – onto properties in the Central Tablelands to enable

manure removal on an annual basis.

Participants will be provided with two nurseries of the bubas bison beetles. Then, with providing ongoing cattle dung for feed during their establishment period (to allow for settlement and breeding), they can be released onto the land thereafter.

Working alongside Landcare, dung beetle and soil health expert, Dr Bernard Doube of Dung Beetle Solutions International (DBSI), will return in support of the environmental project, and assist in providing participants with ongoing knowledge in the successful monitoring of the winter-active beetle.

To sustain the project further, the over-use and toxicity of deworming agents used on livestock will be another point of focus for Landcare; as the overuse and poor timing of chemicals remain active in livestock dung – meaning this can kill the helpful critters, and prevent them from putting their good work into action.

“We will also be investigating the effect of parasitic drenches on these mighty paddock warriors, [as] some drenches have a deadly impact on the dung beetle,” Geri explained.

“We aim to discover which ones are least destructive, and to discover if a change in a worm drenching regime may in fact have positive benefits for the farmer.”

For landholders and those interested in being involved with this current Landcare project, people are asked to send an email to centraltablelandslandcare@gmail.com.

Interested participants can also head to https:// midlachlanlandcare.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/eoibubas-bison-winter-active-dung-beetle-project.pdfand fill their details out via the online EOI form provided.

Bees responsible for most venomous NSW Farmers backs move to lift ban on GM crops bite and sting hospitalisations

Over 3,500 Australians were hospitalised due to contact with a venomous animal or plant in 2017– 18, according to a new report released today by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW).

The report, Venomous bites and stings, 2017–18, found that more than a quarter (26% or 927 cases) of these hospitalisations were caused by bee stings.

‘Australia is home to some of the most venomous animals in the world—including spiders, ticks, and 20 of the 25 most venomous snakes in the world,’ ‘The majority of hospitalisations for bee stings were due to allergic reactions, with bees and wasps responsible for 12 of the 19 deaths related to venomous bites and stings in 2017–18,’ said AIHW spokesperson Professor James Harrison from the AIHW’s National Injury Surveillance Unit, based at Flinders University.

Spider bites accounted for one-fifth (19% or 666 cases) of all venomous bite and sting related hospitalisations. Of those 666 cases, redback spiders were responsible for 42.5% (283 cases) of hospitalisations, followed by white-tailed spiders (38 cases), and funnel web spiders (25 cases).

The type of spider was unknown in just under half of all cases (45% or 300 cases).

Venomous snakes were chiefly responsible for 17% (606 cases) of hospitalisations due to venomous bites and stings in 2017–18, with the type of snake unknown in around one-third of those cases (34% or 208 cases). Brown snakes accounted for 36% (215 cases) of hospitalisations due to venomous snake bites, followed by black snakes (83 cases) and tiger snakes (65 cases).

Of the 19 deaths recorded in 2017–18, 7 were attributed to venomous snakes.

‘Alongside land-dwelling animals, Australia also has some of the world’s most venomous marine animals, including the Irukandji jellyfish,’ said Professor Harrison.

Contact with venomous marine animals accounted for just under 400 hospitalisations and 0 deaths, with stinging fish (including stonefish and stingrays) responsible for 320 hospital admissions, followed by jellyfish (73 cases).

The rate of hospitalisations for all venomous bites and stings varied by states and territories across Australia. The highest rate occurred in the Northern Territory (31 cases per 100,000 population) and the lowest in the Australian Capital Territory (9 cases per 100,000).

‘Residents of the Very remote regions of Australia had the highest rate of hospitalisations (49 cases per 100,000) while the lowest rate was observed for residents of the Major cities of Australia (9 cases per 100,000),’ Professor Harrison said.

6 MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 4 March 2021

NSW Farmers supports a decision to lift the moratorium on Genetically Modified (GM) crops, provided farmers have a choice and that any genetically modified organism has been approved by an independent, science-based Australian regulator.

The NSW Government will lift the ban on the use of GM crops by allowing an 18-year moratorium to lapse when the Gene Technology (GM Crop Moratorium) Act 2003 is due to expire on 1 July 2021.

NSW Farmers President James Jackson said farmers who wish to cultivate GM crops should have the opportunity to make informed choices about what to sow, based on their individual businesses and specific conditions.

“For farmers, it’s all about the right to choose. There are farmers who would incorporate GMO’s into their farming systems and there are farmers who would choose not to,” Mr Jackson said.

“We do have confidence in the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator as an independent

science based regulator that will balance the risks and benefits of different GM crops or applications for those farmers choose to incorporate them.

“It is true that there is huge potential with biotechnology to develop more drought resilient crops and improve sustainable weed and pest control, which will play a key role in reaching our aim of a $30 billion Ag sector by 2030.

But we also have to be collectively responsible in respecting a farmer’s choice not to use GM technology.”

Mr Jackson said the right to choose does not stop with the crops a farmer plants.

“Truth in labelling is important to create trust and acceptance and to provide consumers the opportunity to make informed choices in regard to genetically modified foods,” Mr Jackson said.

Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory do not have a moratorium in place, and the moratorium in South Australia now only applies to Kangaroo Island.

Football Rugby Union

Molong Rugby: The Magpies prepare for the 2021 footy season

By Emily Gobourg In eager spirits for the upcoming union season, the first grade seniors of the Molong Magpies R.U.F.C had their 2021 training debut last Thursday night at the Rec. With the idea to breed a more competitive system of rugby throughout the season, the competition is said to trial a new tournament format this year.

Each of the nine teams will face off against one another in the first round, where the results will then determine a final tier system; splitting teams into two equal parts of four teams either side – with the ninth team at the bottom of the ladder knocked off the podium for the season, and out of the running altogether.

Concluding this new first round format, the top four teams will then compete for the OILSPLUS Cup, where the remaining bottom four teams will compete for the OILSPLUS Shield. The draw will then divide evenly into home (H) and away (A) games, with four H and four A matches to be scheduled for both tiers.

Zac White, Vice Present for the Molong Magpies R.U.F.C, said the Pies have around 25 players for the 2021 season, with most of the “regulars” back on board for this year.

“We’ve pretty much got the same team as last year, but with a couple of losses,” said Zac. “There’s possibly a few new players, but we won’t really know until the season [officially] starts.”

With the uncertainties of COVID

last year, many sports events were left up in the air. Zac explained how some of the Rugby League boys had come across to the R.U.F.C during 2020, and said he has hopes that some of those same players might return for another season of union.

“The COVID year gave us a bit of mix in the team, so it’ll be interesting to see how it goes this year,” Zac said.

“Hopefully we can hang onto to some of that mix, and have that co-community crossover between league and union.”

Though 2020 certainly brought its challenges, the Pies boys still managed to secure a sturdy third place in a strong last season of footy, with hopes to keep the momentum going for this year’s season.

“We’re usually competitive, and we want to do well,” said Zac. “We finished strong last year, and we’d like to go strong again off the back of that.”

Matt Steventon will continue as President for the club in 2021, with coaches Peter “Evvo” Evans and Kyle Travis to lead the boys through another season. Debbie White will take on the role of treasurer, with club legend Mary Mulhall fulfilling the position of club secretary.

Scheduled for kick-off on the 10th April, the first game of the competition will see the mighty Pies face-off with the Coolah Roos in an away match for round one of 2021.

“The more you sweat in training, the less you bleed in battle.”

At training last week

Rugby League

Cody gets the contract St George Illawarra have announced that Cody Ramsey has re-signed with the Dragons for a further three seasons, until at least the end of the 2024.

Ramsey made his NRL debut in Round 18 last year and went on to play three first grade games by season end.

The NRL Perth Nines Rookie of the Tournament will now be on the hunt to secure a Round 1 backline berth during Saturday's Charity Shield clash against the Rabbitohs.

"I'm stoked to remain a Dragon for the next few years. I've had a great journey getting to this point in my career and it means a whole lot to my whole family that I've managed to secure my future in the Red V," Ramsey said.

"I still have a lot more improvement and learning in me. That's something that has been drilled into me by all my coaches which I can appreciate. I can't wait to develop further and better myself over the coming years."

Dragons general manager of football Ben Haran said Ramsey is a player who Red V members, partners and fans should be excited about.

"Cody showed a great desire to remain a Dragon, which is very important for a proud organisation such as St George Illawarra," Haran

Australian Credit Licence 240722

6362 2944

PH:

said.

"We identified a number of years ago that Cody had great potential and we're starting to see him deliver on that now in the top squad.

"To see a quality player and person like Cody come through our junior representative pathway is another pleasing aspect to his retention.

"Cody's ability to play in numerous positions will hold him in good stead over the upcoming season and beyond."

Ramsey's re-signing follows the signings of Andrew McCullough, Daniel Alvaro, Jack Bird and Poasa Faamausili and the retention of Mat and Max Feagai, Josh Kerr, Jackson Ford, Mikaele Ravalawa, Adam Clune, Junior Amone and Tyrell Sloan ahead of the Dragons' 2021 campaign.

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 4 March 2021

7

Enter the SPAR Easter colouring competition

Hey Kids - enter our colouring competition and bring your entry into SPAR for display and a chance to win some cool prizes.

Ages: 8 and under. 9 and up.

Entries taken until Monday 29 March

NOTE: You can pick up this colouring-in sheet from the SPAR Store

Phil Donato MP Member for Orange

Your voice in NSW Parliament Get in touch: M: 123 Byng Street Orange T: 02 6362 5199 E: orange@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Philip Donato MP, Member for Orange, produced using parliamentary entitlements

Bank St MOLONG

PH 6366 8062

SEE INSTORE BROCHURE FOR FULL RANGE

THIS SATURDAY ONLY Bring in this coupon to RECEIVE 10% DISCOUNT

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THAT'S 10% DISCOUNT OFF YOUR GROCERIES

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8 MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 4 March 2021

Molong site to reveal secrets of traditional Wiradjuri burials

Ground-breaking research on a Wiradjuri burial site at Molong, could soon reveal new insights into traditional funeral practices, highlighting the importance of Aboriginal cultural heritage in the Central Tablelands region of NSW. Central Tablelands Local Land Services and La Trobe University this week are undertaking radar technology to research ancient customs on the Garra Travelling Stock Reserve (TSR) south east of Molong.

The La Trobe university archaeology team are using ground penetrating radar to locate burial sites, focusing initially on a carved tree, believed to mark the grave of a highly respected Aboriginal man.

“Carved trees were generally reserved for special individuals, that we refer to as a man of high degree,” explained Wiradjuri man and Senior Land Services Officer (Indigenous Communities), Greg Ingram.

“Once the burial spot has been confirmed, the archaeologists will use threedimensional mapping to survey the area and identify clues about how traditional burials were conducted in the past.”

The Local Land Services funded research will include a search for other potential burial sites in the vicinity of the remaining carved tree.

“There are a lot of large stumps at this site,” said Mr Ingram.

“It’s possible that these stumps may have been carved trees that have been cut down, suggesting this could be a traditional burial ground containing more than one grave site.”

Several local Aboriginal organisations are involved in the field work on site, ensuring engagement and partnership in the project with the local Aboriginal community.

“There hasn’t been a lot of research on traditional Wiradjuri funeral practices, so this is a significant project,” said Mr Ingram.

“This tree was carved by local Wiradjuri

Carved tree on Garra TSR

people as part of what was likely a deeply solemn ritual to honour an individual they held in very high esteem.”

“It’s important to us that the descendants of these people are now able to oversee this research on what must be very special place.”

Local Land Services is responsible for the care, control and management of a vast network of TSRs in NSW, including the Garra Reserve.

Working with the Orange Local Aboriginal Land Council, back in 2018 Central Tablelands Local Land Services fenced off the location on the Garra TSR to stop sheep and cattle from damaging the site.

“It’s worth noting that this reserve has been leased to a local landholder for many years, and while we have fenced off a small section to protect and preserve a special site, the remainder of the reserve has continued to be used for grazing stock,” said Mr Ingram.

“Aboriginal cultural heritage and western farming practices can co-exist, they don’t have to impact on your usual land management.”

“We’ve taken a collaborative approach to exploring traditional knowledge and we’ve been able to demonstrate that Aboriginal culture can be preserved working side by side with landholders and local communities.”

Central Tablelands Local Land Services has a strong working relationship with local Aboriginal communities and is committed to preserving and promoting Wiradjuri cultural heritage.

The three-dimensional mapping employed during the Garra TSR project will be used to create educational tools to promote local Aboriginal Cultural Heritage and to train Local Land Services staff in cultural awareness.

Landholders seeking advice or assistance regarding managing and protecting Aboriginal Cultural Heritage are urged to contact their nearest Local Land Services office.

Royal Commission into Aged Care

(Continued from page 5) They advocate different regulation arrangements.

With Briggs supporting greater independence. They “both recommend stronger accountability through the establishment of an Inspector-General of Aged Care”.

CThe findings on home packages contradict the government’s claims about how well it has done in this area.

Pagone writes that people have waited about seven months for the lowest level of need and about 34 months for those with the highest need.

“Something has gone badly wrong when those most in need are forced to wait the longest for care,” he observes.

On funding, Pagone set out a proposal for an Aged Care levy, which would mean “each person will contribute toward the financing of the aged care system through their working life” according to their income. They would then be able to access it when they needed it, without a means test – as happens with Medicare.

Briggs puts forward an “aged care improvement levy” on personal taxable income of 1% to fund the increasing costs of aged care.

Asked about the levy Morrison said: “We’ll consider those things. You know our government’s disposition when it comes to increased levies and taxes. It is not something we lean to.”

He recalled that when he was treasurer, “I once sought

to increase the Medicare levy by 0.5% to support the National Disability Insurance Scheme and I wasn’t supported in that by the Labor Party or the Greens for that matter.

"So that’s something that I’ve seen in other contexts that the parliament hasn’t supported before. So you’d forgive me for being a little wary at this point.”

The commission recommends an extensive shakeup of workforce arrangements, including registration of personal care workers, and professionalising the workforce through changes to education, training, wages, labour conditions and career progression. (theconversation.com.au)

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 4 March 2021

9

Vital links for ag should Blayney to host Communications be a priority Information Forum Sydney to the West misses out again

NSW Farmers is disappointed by Infrastructure Australia’s update to the national Infrastructure Priority List, which downplays the major role regional areas can make in a COVID-19 recovery.

NSW Farmers President James Jackson said the contribution of agriculture and regional communities to state and national economies can no longer be an afterthought, especially given the exponential growth of regional areas over the last year.

“Regional NSW makes up 40 percent of the state’s economy and generates one third of its total gross production. Agriculture alone adds just under $15.7 billion in economic output, of which a third is exported,” Mr Jackson said.

“It is therefore challenging to see that major road infrastructure to enable growth and productivity of agriculture is not identified as high priority by Infrastructure Australia.”

“The Western Sydney Airport is a high priority project, but the essential linkages west through the Great Western Highway and north through the Outer Sydney Orbital corridor preservation are only identified as initiatives - as yet un costed and un-planned.”

“NSW Farmers has been calling for significant improvements to the Great Western Highway to deliver a three hour journey from the Central West to the Western Sydney Airport Precinct. This must be escalated to high priority status to deliver the value adding and export benefits

that agriculture needs to grow our output to $30 billion by 2030.”

“The record migration to the regions over the last year highlights the need for state of the art infrastructure for regional NSW. Be it roads or telecommunications regional NSW deserves to be at the top of the Infrastructure Australia list.”

Mr Jackson said significant opportunities lie in enhancing supply chains connecting farms with domestic and global consumers, but these won’t be realised without meaningful investment.

“Our agricultural product is highly sought after - it achieves a premium at the checkout because of its high quality and freshness”, Mr Jackson said.

“Currently, our supply chains are inefficient, adding costs and time.”

“Without a commitment to significant improvement and prioritisation by the NSW Government, we wonder when regional NSW will see the commitment to infrastructure expansion that is evident within the Sydney metro region.”

“We echo calls made by the National Farmers’ Federation today for state and federal treasuries to review the high discount rates used to assess infrastructure proposals that disadvantage investment proposals in projects with longterm horizons, which includes most regional projects.”

“The current prioritisation system is broken, and it is high time it’s fixed.”

ONLINE

Regional Development Australia Central West (RDA Central West) is proud to partner with the Central NSW Joint Organisation of Councils (Central NSW JO) to deliver a Communications Information Forum in Blayney on Thursday, 11 March 2021.

Some of the major telecommunications providers including Telstra, Optus, NBN, Aussie Broadband and Wi-Sky, will feature at the forum that is open to local businesses and community members from across the region.

The Regional Tech Hub will also be involved at the forum and was recently established by the Australian Government to provide independent advice to regional communities on technology solutions to support their needs.

The forum will see the communication representatives take part in an open display followed by a live panel and Q&A session moderated by RDA Central West with time for networking at the conclusion of the event.

The major service providers will give updates and information surrounding connectivity and coverage in regional areas so attendees can walk away with a better understanding of their needs and mostly importantly, the options available in the Central West.

RDA Central West CEO, Sam Harma said the forum is an outstanding opportunity for local businesses and members of the community to hear directly from industry leaders.

“Every customer’s needs and options are different but the common factor is reliability, and this is vital for those living and working in regional areas,” said Mr Harma.

“The forum is a chance to find out more about the barriers we often face, but also the different options, including low cost options; we have to overcome these challenges and boost coverage, speed, data

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and in turn – profitability and efficiency.

“There have also been some big announcements recently around communications for our region, including NBN’s Business Fibre Zones in Orange and Bathurst, so I encourage anyone interested to come and find out what initiatives like this could mean for your business and our region overall.”

Central NSW JO Chair Cr John Medcalf said the Central NSW JO and RDA Central West had a long partnership working in collaboration to advocate for better communications infrastructure across the region.

“The JO Board has made communications a focus for 2021,” added Cr Medcalf.

“Technology is moving at such a fast pace of change and this forum is an essential part of our plan to bring local concerns to key decision makers and provide access to the most up to date information to the communities we represent.”

Attending the Communications Information Forum is: NBN Co. Telstra ·Optus Aussie Broadband Wi-Sky Regional Tech Hub PeakConnect The Communications Information Forum will be held at the Blayney Community Centre on Thursday March 11 from 12:30pm to 2pm.

Entry is free and lunch will be provided thanks to the generous support of the Central NSW JO. Due to catering and COVID-19 restrictions we strongly encourage participants to register at www.blayney-communications-informationforum.eventbrite.com.au For more information, please contact RDA Central West on (02) 6369 1600 or email sophie@rdacentralwest.org.au

QUICK CROSSWORD

REG’S BENCH A man stumbles up to the only other patron in a bar and asks if he could buy him a drink. "Why of course," comes the reply. The first man then asks: "Where are you from?" "I'm from Ireland," replies the second man. The first man responds: "You don't say, I'm from Ireland too! Let's have another round to Ireland." "Of Course," replies the second man. Curious, the first man then asks: "Where in Ireland are you from?" "Dublin," comes the reply. "I can't believe it," says the first man. "I'm from Dublin too! Let's have another drink to Dublin." "Of course," replies the second man. Curiosity again strikes and the first man asks: "What school did you go to?"

"Saint Mary's," replies the second man. "I graduated in '65." "This is unbelievable!," the first man says. "I went to Saint Mary's and I graduated in '65, too!" About that time in comes one of the regulars and sits down at the bar. "What's been going on?," he asks the bartender. "Nothing much," replies the bartender. "The O'Malley twins are drunk again."

A famous scientist was on his way to a lecture in yet another university when his chauffeur offered an idea. "Hey, boss,

I've heard your speech so many times I bet I could deliver it and give you the night off." "Sounds great," the scientist said. When they got to the auditorium, the scientist put on the chauffeur's hat and settled into the back row. The chauffeur walked to the lectern and delivered the speech. Afterward he asked if there were any questions. "Yes," said one professor. Then he launched into a highly technical question. The chauffeur was panic stricken for a moment but quickly recovered. "That's an easy one," he replied. "In fact, it's so easy, I'm going to let my chauffeur answer it!"

The chicken and the egg are laying in bed. The chicken is smoking a cigarette with a satisfied smile on its face while the egg is frowning and looking slightly annoyed. The egg mutters "Well I guess that answers that riddle".

A guy walks into a bar with a gun and said "Which one of you slept with my wife." and a guy in the back stands up and says "You dont have enough bullets."

Solutions page 14

ACROSS 1 Darling (10) 7 Conflagration (7) 8 Substantial (5) 10 Dog noise (4) 11 Catastrophe (8) 13 Servile follower (6) 15 Noon (6) 17 Opposite (8) 18 Winged insect (4) 21 Slack (5) 22 Large crustacean (7) 23 Branch of mathematics (10)

DOWN

1 More secure (5) 2 Merit (4) 3 Cancer or Capricorn (6) 4 Rapturous (8) 5 Akin (7) 6 Fiendish (10) 9 English county (10) 12 Worshipful (8) 14 Frankness (7)

16 Refuge (6) 19 Relating to sight (5) 20 Assist in a crime (4)

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Book that can make an idiot cry? (10) 7 Poet getting a tan? (8) 8 Scottish town in love with outlaw (4) 9 Only flat fish (4) 10 Old tragedian initially greeting play (7) 12 Former scheme a politician is clarifying (11) 14 Southern Spain and Portugal or Northern Russia (7) 16 Small county in which flowers are grown (4) 19 One member's naughty children (4) 20 Neglected matters go by this governing body (3,5) 21 Fictional lawyer having a drink with mother and child (5,5) DOWN

1 Valuable old violin returned for local game!

(5) 2 A flower an animal found by mistake (7) 3 Egyptian goddess with one little sister (4) 4 Late drink that goes to your head? (8)

5 Heron flying about European river (5) 6 Crop produced by real cultivation (6) 11 A cistern adapted as a container for food (8) 12 Confused in game or puzzle (6) 13 Coolest sort of cats! (7) 15 Follow girl after men lost lead (5)

17 Sound warning for a temptress? (5) 18 Expression used for part of school year (4)

WORD SEARCH

SODUKU Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9, with no number repeated.

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 4 March 2021

11

TRADES & SERVICES

BUILDING / CARPENTRY

ACCOUNTANTS / SOLICITORS

TAX IS JUST ONE PART OF WHAT WE DO

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Ph: 6362 1922

CONCRETE / LANDSCAPING PRODUCTS

Byrne’s All Works

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CONVEYANCING

Mini Earthworks Kanga Hire • Renovations • Bathroom • Carpentry • Decks • Patios • Glazing • Fencing • Welding

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2/67 Bank Street, Molong NSW 2866 PO Box 174, Molong NSW 2866

Ph: 02 6366 8222 Fax: 02 6366 9273

Daryl Byrne

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Orange 02 6362 1533 | Bathurst 02 6332 5946 Molong 6366 8049 Molong02 02 6366 8049 W | www.ybm.com.au E | mail@ybm.com.au

Mark O’Donahue Home Maintenance

CONCRETE

Mini Mix Truck

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BULK WATER DELIVERY

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•Sand, aggregates •Topsoil, Mulch •Mushroom compost •Woodchips

SERVING THE LOCAL COMMUNITY FOR OVER 40 YEARS

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Servicing all your Earthmoving requirements, Low Loader, Water Tankers and Side tipper hire Contact Garry Gersbach:

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12

MOLONG EXPRESS, 4 March 2021

SOLAR PUMP SPECIALISTS SUPPLY, INSTALLATION, REPAIRS & ELECTRICAL

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FUNERAL SERVICES

PAINTING / DECORATING

T.A. ALLCORN PAINTING

6361 7777 6362 3751

NORMAN J PENHALL FUNERALS Serving the Molong District PROVIDING 24 HOUR 7 DAYS SENSITIVE, DIGNIFIED & PROFESSIONAL CARE WHEN YOU NEED IT MOST PRE-PAID AND PRE-ARRANGED FUNERAL SPECIALISTS, RESPECTING ALL DENOMINATIONS email: mail@penhallfunerals.com.au

OUR FAMILY CARING FOR YOUR FAMILY

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PACKAGING

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Book Boxes | Tea Chests Bubble Wrap | Glass Jars Packing Tape

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SMASH REPAIRS

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WATER BORES

• Auto Robot • Baking Oven • All insurance work • Panel Beating & Spray Painting • Windscreens supplied and fitted

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B-Double Livestock, Hay & General Freight

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SMASH REPAIRS

TREE SERVICES

Country Tree Services Garry Livingstone

• Arborist • Tree Felling • Trimming • Stump Grinding • Fully Insured • 30 years experience

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Smash Repairs Quality Smash Repairs

• Insurance & Private Work • All vehicle makes & models • Custom work and paint

• Hotrods/Restoration/Vintage vehicles • Motor bikes/boats and all marine vessels

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ONLINE

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MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 4 March 2021

13

CLASSIFIEDS

that work !

PHONE: 02 6366 8017 • Email: molongex@bigpond.net.au

POSITIONS VACANT

PUBLIC NOTICES

BIRTHDAY Happy 60th Shazza!

Finance/Clerical Assistant

St Joseph's Catholic Primary School MANILDRA NSW Part Time Permanent Position 70 hours per fortnight. 5 days per week/job share would be considered. Commencing 22.03.2021 Applications are invited for the above position from persons who demonstrate a commitment to the aims and philosophy of Catholic education.

An application form for this position to be obtained from the CEDB website at www. bth.catholic.edu.au Further details of this position, including the selection criteria may be obtained by contacting Jacqueline Parmeter on j.parmeter@bth.catholic.edu.au Completed applications are to be submitted to: Jacqueline Parmeter St Joseph’s Primary School Loftus Street MANILDRA NSW 2795 Email: j.parmeter@bth.catholic.edu.au Applications close: Monday, 8 March 2021 Child Protection legislation requires preferred applicants to be subject to employment screening. The Catholic Education Diocese of Bathurst is an equal opportunity employer.

Molong & District Servicemen & Servicewomen's Portrait Gallery INVITATION

to a Gathering of Friends of the Portrait Gallery on Sunday, 28 March at the RSL Club, at 2.00 for 2.30 pm.

Afternoon tea will be provided.

We are asking Friends to explain connections with the portraits, and perhaps share a story or show some memorabilia.

School students will tell us about their History studies.

All welcome.

RSVP by Wednesday, 25 March to Helen Haynes: 6360 4114 (m) 0417269388 hayneshm@bigpond.com

MOLONG PROBUS CLUB Annual General Meeting

The club will hold its AGM on 9 March at the Molong Bowling Club commencing at 10.00am.

MOLONG DISTRICT SOCCER CLUB

REGISTRATIONS 2021

are fielding teams in U6, U8, U10 divisions.

Sign on & first training

1 April at the Rec

We need coaches and parents to assist at training.

Contact Brett Murdoch 0491 473 282

Register online at www.playfootball.com.au Make sure you get your Active Kids Vouchers from Service NSW before registering $110 PER CHILD Children need to be turning 5 years old this year to play Any enquiries please contact molongsoccerclub@gmail.com Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date

Cabonne Roos 2021!

Meet the coaches & your team mates! Get help registering!!

FRIDAY 5TH MARCH – 5:00PM @ THE MOLONG REC GROUND Sausage sizzle and drink for all players FEES ARE $100 – ALL KIDS GET TRAINING SHIRT, SHORTS & SOCKS

(Remember to get your Active Kids voucher first)

We can register your child for you – just bring along your birth certificate

TACKLE - U8’S, U10’S, U12’S, U14’S AND U16’S LEAGUE TAG – U8’S, U11’S, U14’S AND U17’S

We travel as a club - all teams travel to the same location to play!

We need coaches, managers and first aiders for each team – contact Tania on O408 604 711 if you are interested QUICK CROSSWORD

14

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 4 March 2021

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER

Molong will be celebrated tomorrow Friday, 5 March, at the Catholic Parish Hall, behind St Joseph’s School, Molong Street at 11 am.

All welcome - morning tea to follow

UNITING CHURCH Still sweet as ever love Sam, Dave, Bob & family

PUBLIC NOTICES MOLONG CAMPDRAFT Annual General Meeting

Thursday 18 March 2021 7pm at the Freemasons Hotel Agenda Confirmation of minutes; Treasurers Report; Nominations and election of new committee.

All committee positions will be declared vacant. We encourage all previous committee and new members to come along to support our Molong Campdraft Any enquiries please contact Kim Stojanov 0428 648 826

ACOMMODATION Single Mature Male

Molong Junior Rugby Club

CHURCH NOTICES

Permanently employed, seeks acommodation with facilities. Cottage, converted garage etc OK. Ph: 0498 360 334

OYSTERS

Farm Fresh from the coast $10 doz. large Text Scott: 0429 274 670 with name & qty required Pick up Monday - Tuesday after 12 12 Wellington St Molong

MOLONG HOCKEY CLUB

Sunday 28 February Molong 11.00 am Clenys Cherry Denney Heather Woodhouse 63668218 Helen Houghton 63668020

Welcome MOLONG & DISTRICT BAPTIST CHURCH

Now streaming 10Sunday am services Sunday WorshipSunday Service & School 10 am Visit www.mdbc.org.au - click online.

Weekly Activities on livestream, to For linkAll toAge the Groups online Wayne Spencer (Pastor) Ph: 63669376 platform.

MOLONG COMMUNITY CHURCH YOU ARE NOT A MISTAKE

Sunday 10 am: Celebration & Sunday School (Ages 3 & up)

Wednesday Night 7 pm: Connect Group All Welcome

For more information contact Deon Stapelberg Ph: 0498 659 703 1 Edward St, Molong (opp Police Stn)

Claim the date – 2020 Send your 2021 dates to molongexpress@bigpond.net.au

The MHC would like to invite all interested players boys and girls, coaches and managers to our REGISRATION EVENING. Friday 5 March, 6pm at the Molong field Under 9’s – Saturday mornings in Molong Open Primary (years 3-6) – Wednesday evenings in Orange Under 14’s – Friday night in Orange Under 16’s & 18’s – Monday night in Orange Seniors – all grades are played in Orange from lunch time Saturday to Sunday evening Under 11’s Rep team – boys and girls If you are unable to make it to the registration evening, please keep an eye on our Facebook page for our online registration link.

Hope to see you all there.

March 4 Molong Men’s Shed meets 4 Molong Rotary Club RSL 6.30pm 9 Molong Probus 10am Bowling Club 11 Molong Advancement Group RSL 18 Molong Rotary Club RSL 6.30pm 20 Cumnock Markets 9 - 12 28 Gathering of Friends of the Portrait Gallery 2.30 pm RSL Club April 1 Molong Men’s Shed meets 1 Molong Rotary Club RSL 6.30pm 5 Molong Village Markets Molong Rec Ground 5 Molong Show Meeting, Showground 7.30pm 8 Molong Advancement Group RSL 13 Molong Probus 10am Bowling Club 15 Molong Rotary Club RSL 6.30pm 17 Cumnock Markets 9 - 12 May 3 Molong Show Meeting, Showground 7.30pm 6 Molong Men’s Shed meets 6 Molong Rotary Club RSL 6.30pm 11 Molong Probus 10am Bowling Club 20 Molong Rotary Club RSL 6.30pm 22 Cumnock Markets 9 - 12 June 3 Molong Men’s Shed meets 3 Molong Rotary Club RSL 6.30pm 7 Molong Show Meeting, Showground 7.30pm 8 Molong Probus 10am Bowling Club 17 Molong Rotary Club RSL 6.30pm 19 Cumnock Markets 9 - 12 July 1 Molong Men’s Shed meets 5 Molong Show Meeting, Showground

Sport

Cricket

Molong Bowls BRAG

Jim Troth (famed Molong joke teller) recited a cracker of a Banjo poem at the club, in keeping with the poetry festival. Read it below..”

Annabelles Kitchen

Come long and enjoy a delicious meal made by

Annabelle and her team. 6pm take-away also avail.

The Club is open from 4.30pm on Mondays, Fridays, Saturday and Sundays. (Earlier if scheduled bowls is being played on Sat or Sun).

There was movement at the Bowlo, for the word had got around That Brag had started up in earnest.

All the tried and noted bowlers from the Bowlo’s near and far Had mustered at the Bowlo Friday night.

There was Bronnie, the leader of this lot Few could bowl beside her when her blood was fairly up.

And there is Isabella who hails from out Belgravia way Its great to see young bowlers play the game.

The Floyds and the Oatses came to lend a hand Tom, Bud and Amey all played their ususal style.

Then Bill, Bob and Morgo come to sell tickets in the meat tray With Janelle and Sarah working hard behind the bar.

And down at Molong Bowlo where the grass is green and true Where the air is clear as crystal and the white stars fairly blaze There will always be a meal cooked by Perry and his mates.

Molong Golf Ladies The ladies golf has started for this year, our start time is 8.30 for a 9.00 tee off. A reminder also that there is a working bee this Saturday starting at 8.30am and as the saying goes many hands make light work.

Mixed On Sunday we had 14 players out for a hit. weather was great and the course is looking good. We played a 2 person ambrose which was a bit of a laugh for the odd couples but everyone had a great day.

Croquet

Two teams came in winners Mark & Chris and Drew & Erin.

A “putt-off” was decided but was forfeited by Mark & Chris due to packed up equipment and change of shoes. (!!)

If anyone can give us a hand on Saturday 6th with the working bee it would be great. 8.30 start Sunday golf tee off 8.30-9.00. hope to see you there.

Jack

Croquet will be on this Saturday, but a reminder that we will be starting at the earlier time of 5.00pm, it was lovely to have a new player with us last Saturday and he was very quick to pick up the state of play.

LANDMARK TABLELANDS LIVESTOCK

We offer Auction Plus assessments on both sheep and cattle.

Direct paddock sales, over the hook rates, Weekly stock sales in Carcoar (CTLX), Forbes, Dubbo & Wagga saleyards. Contact one of our Landmark Tablelands Livestock team.

Paul Glynn (Molong & surrounding districts) – 0428 168 638 CATTLE 2 MARCH 2021

It was another good quality yarding with good numbers of young cattle suitable for the processors and feeders along with a fair selection of grown steers and heifers. The bulk of the yearlings in the yarding were all carrying plenty of weight with the bulk weighing in excess of 400kgs.There was a little over 200 cows yarded, which were mostly in prime condition.

Most of the regular processors were operating along with an additional couple of feeder orders.

Young cattle to the trade were up to 15c dearer with prime vealers selling to 480c/kg. Prime steer yearlings sold from 393c to 460c, while the prime heifer yearlings sold from 360c to 437c/kg. Feeder steers were 4c dearer while the feeder heifers were up to 15c/kg dearer. Feeder steers sold from 386c to 481c while the feeder heifers sold from 399c to 460c with the heavier weights averaging 441c/kg. The restocker market

remains strong with young steers selling to 576c and the young heifers 480c/kg.

Grown steers were 9c to 11c cheaper while the grown heifers were up to 14c/kg dearer. Grown steers sold from 330c to 415c while the grown heifers sold from 315c to 395c/kg. Cows were 4c dearer with the 2 and 3 scores selling from 230c to 285c/kg. The prime heavy weight cows sold from 296c to 320c for a single C muscle Limousin. The prime heavy weight cows averaged 310c/ kg. The best heavy weight bull sold for 306c/kg.

SHEEP 24 Feb

It was a good quality yarding with a good selection of trade and heavy weight shorn lambs throughout.

There were very limited numbers of woolly lambs yarded and only a couple of pens of Merinos. All the regular buyers were in attendance and operating.

Trade lambs were $4 to $7 cheaper with the trade weight shorn lambs selling from $150 to $217 to average between 865c and 900c/kg cwt.

Trade weight new season lambs sold from $160 to $210/head. Heavy weight lambs were $8 cheaper with the shorn lambs over 24kg making from $205 to $263/head to average between 815c and 845c/kg cwt.

Trade weight Merino lambs sold from $145 to $152/head. Restocker lambs were $5 cheaper, making from $134 to $178/head. Hoggets sold to $206/ head.

Greg Pringle

Millthorpe book Grand Final against Canowindra.

For the first time in over a decade Country will not feature in a Grand Final after the Premiers capitulated in the final over needing 5 runs to win could only manage 1 run and losing their last 3 wickets, in an epic Final at Molong.

Batting first Millthorpe got away to a reasonable start with top order batsman Dave Crombie (22) and Will Oldham (31) setting a platform for a decent total. However after they departed wickets fell at a rapid rate and for the second week in a row it looked like Millthorpe would struggle to make triple figures. Trent Frazer with 3 for 22 was very difficult to get away. Stu Brisbane also bowled well with 2 for 26 to restrict Millthorpe to just 110 all out in the 36th over. Not enough runs you would think in a final. Hmmm crickets a funny game.

Country got off to a disastrous start when both openers Frazer and Wykes went cheaply. At 2 for 9, pressure was on Nigel Brazier to once again get the team home. He tried valiantly but when he went for 37, there was some hope for Millthorpe. However a handy 18 from Andrew Heath helped the Premiers to be well on top at 4 for 80 needing only 30 runs with 6 wickets still in hand and still 11 overs left.

However led by some tight bowling, superb fielding and growing panic by Country the match went into the final over. With 3 wickets still in hand and only 5 runs required for another grand final appearance, Country somehow managed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. All out for 107! (Match score sheets below) Peter Heller 3 for 27, Peter Gott, 2 for 10 off 10 overs and Pat Tree 2 for 15 were just too good on the day.

Well done.

Congratulations to Millthorpe they would have been down after losing last week’s major semi final and went into this match without key players, Lachie O’Keefe, James Millner, Stu Redfern and Michael Parfett. They will go into Saturday’s Grand Final full of confidence and hard to beat.

Congratulations also to Country, a powerhouse for so long in this competition, gracious in defeat.

The loss of all rounder Jock Haynes was telling for them this season. So where to now for the once mighty Country? Despite finishing a very respectable third it has been a poor season by their standards. They have aging injury prone players. John Mulhall complains because he is now in his forties.

Brett Wykes has seen better days and his brother Murray is now the premier batsman in the family. Andrew Heath has dodgy hamstrings and needs a physio to be at every match just to get through. He can’t chase a ball when fielding and yells at his teams mates from the other side to chase the ball. Time to give it away Andrew you’re embarrassing yourself, think of your family.

Joe Clayton refuses to retire despite everyone at Euchareena pleading him to just stop. But Joe refuses to go, last season’s grand final axing has made him more determined than ever, will he ever retire? We can only hope. Nigel Brazier looks tired. He single handley carries Country year after year and it’s, clearly taken it’s toll, he looks like he’s 80 but he’s only 69.

Give away Nigel for your health’s sake, please. The area is rife with rumor that Jock Haynes contract won’t be renewed for 2021/22 season as the Country powerbrokers are furious he crashed his Quad Bike whilst reading his autobiography instead of watching where he was going and ultimately crashing. His season ending injury coinciding with Country’s fall from grace. You should be ashamed Jock, always keep your eyes on the Scotch thistle when riding your Quad. Mark Frazer, Stu Brisbane, Dan Toynton, all need to do something else next summer, we will wait and see.

GRAND FINAL - 6 MARCH CANOWINDRA V MILLTHORPE @ Dr Ross Memorial Oval, Molong 1pm start.

Umpire - Allan Hubbard The ultimate match between the two best sides all season. 1 V 2. Millthorpe claimed the minor premiership, however lost badly to Canowindra in the Major Semi two weeks ago. They will be boosted by the win over Country. Canowindra have had a week off and will be raring to go.

Millthorpe look stronger on paper but are prone to panic and poor fielding. Canowindra are pretty laid back and have some terrific young players who fear no one. Should be a cracker TIP: Millthorpe to win their maiden title.

Canteen will be open at the ground food and drinks available. Presentation of all trophies straight after the match.

There are new Premiers on the way, please come along and watch the match between this seasons two most consistent sides. Good luck to both. Despite no Molong teams competing, a good crowd is expected. Entry is free.

It’s your club!

22-24 RIDDELL ST MOLONG

P: 6366 8105

e:admin@molongrsl.com.au

BISTRO

Service NSW Dine & Discover Vouchers Accepted BAR: Mon Tues 3.00 - 8.00 WED 1.00 - BISTRO Mon -Tues 6-8 pm Wed-Thu 6-8.30 pm 10.00 THU 1.00 - 10.00 FRI 1.00 - 11.00 Fri-Sat 5.30-8.30 pm SAT 1.00 - 10.00 SUN 12.00 - 8.00 MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 4 March 2021

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Sale

Sale

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SOLD Bournewood “Fairview”

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This genuine 2,314* acres, situated in the Central Tablelands district of NSW sold for an amazing price.

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34 Bank Street Molong | 02 6366 9606 | raywhiteemc.com

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MOLONG EXPRESS, Thursday 4 March 2021