Dubbo Photo News, 16/10/2025

Lessons of life and sporting missteps from footie star, and “drop bear” trims

By DAVID DIXON

HARD-LEARNT life lessons for local kids from someone who was inside the footballing bubble and has since turned his world around, as well as tree-trimming works to ensure pedestrian safety from “drop bears”, are the latest news from within the hallowed halls of local government.

Ups and downs of sporting fame and fortune, Carney speaks up

TODD Carney was one of those hugely-talented rugby league players who seemed totally at home on the footy field, and yet struggled with fame, fortune, and addiction.

Seeking to turn the lessons he has learned the hard way over the years to good use, he recently imparted his wisdom to a grateful group of local lads and lasses in the district.

Carney is the former NRL star who played for the Canberra Raiders, Sydney Roosters, and Cronulla Sharks, as well as in NSW State of Origin and Australia guernseys.

He is now a coach and mentor helping young people navigate pressure and life’s pitfalls, with Dubbo’s Youth Council among 100 youngsters from throughout the region who got to hear about

the former star’s journey last Wednesday.

Having turned his life around, Carney was here for his “Reboot Mindset Academy” – the charity he founded with close footballing mate, Mitchell Pearce – who himself was no slouch when it came to occasional off-field atrocities.

Carney met with the youngsters at the Victoria Park No 1 Oval to speak about his story of talent, adversity, and transformation in overcoming a series of highlypublicised setbacks that were the

result of his hidden struggles with alcohol and mental health.

While here, he also braved an interview with Youth Council members, Brendan Fernando Fuller and Ashton Jones, in a candid question-and-answer session before meeting other attendees.

Brendan and Ashton spoke with Carney about his program, the people who inspired him, and what it was like when he was in the same position as many youth in Dubbo are today.

“Having Todd here is just amaz-

ing; it’s a great opportunity for young people to meet a start that they look up too, someone who is a real role model for us,” Brendan said.

“This is an opportunity that we don’t get out here every day, so having Todd here is really good,” he added

Council’s Youth Development Officer, Charmaine Mara, said events such as this were part of Council’s “commitment to youth wellbeing, leadership, and inclusion”.

“We designed this event to engage young people across the Dubbo local government area, particularly those at risk or disengaged to give them some tools to build confidence, emotional regulation and a positive mindset,” Ms Mara said.

“The Youth Council members were integral in setting up the event and promoting it to their communities, encouraging young people to come along and join in during the school holidays,” she concluded.

“Drop bear” pruning works to improve safety

“DROP bears” bushies used to call them; fictional creatures that fall out of gum trees, but are actually the limbs that can be such a sudden danger for passersby.

NOW SELLING Release

As spring heads towards summer, major tree pruning works will be underway in Macquarie Lions Park and along the eastern bank of the Macquarie River, seeking to address safety concerns caused by falling branches.

This work followed an assessment by an independent arborist who examined a number of River Red Gums in the area.

The assessment identified structural issues in several trees, prompting the need for heavy pruning to reduce risks to the public.

One tree near the edge of the park will have all limbs removed to prevent it from toppling in strong winds. However, the trunk will remain in place so as to preserve the natural hollows so welcomed by local wildlife, including birds and possums.

Four additional trees along the riverbank will also undergo significant canopy reduction pruning to improve their structural stability.

To prepare for the future removal of these trees, Council will begin planting trees along the riverbank to maintain the area’s natural beauty and ecological value.

Contractors will undertake the pruning works, which are expected to be completed by the end of November, weather permitting.

Former footie star with some lessons in life, Todd Carney, with Dubbo Youth Council member, Brendan Fernando Fuller, during the former Origin player’s recent visit to the region. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

le

CONNAH MATTHEWS

Tell us a little about yourself? I’m 25 years old and I grew up in Eumungerie.

I’m the second oldest, with three sisters. I’ve been a welder/fabricator for three or four years, and two years ago I started my own business called ‘Calm Welding and Fabrication’.

What’s the best way to start the day? Co ee, as much as possible and as strong as possible!

What’s the best single day on the calendar? It has to be my girlfriend Caitlin’s birthday, which is October 11th!

How di erent was your life one year ago? A year ago, I was still living in Eumungerie. Caitlin and I moved to Mendooran just before Christmas last year.

What’s the farthest you’ve ever been from home? Western Australia. I went for work, and I worked in mines as part of a work contract. I’ve been a lot of places for work, but it would be nice to holiday in some di erent places as well.

Where is the most interesting place you’ve been? Everywhere is interesting, for di erent reasons!

What are you most likely to become famous for? I would like it to be for my business. I would love it to be a household name.

Who has impressed you most with what they’ve accomplished? I try to take something from everyone. Everyone has something to teach you. You just have to know what to learn.

How do you relax after a hard day? I enjoy learning. I’ll look into di erent things and learn about things I’ve seen or heard during the day. Otherwise, it’s just working mostly! What pets did you have while you were growing up? We’ve had pets my whole life. We’ve had cats, dogs and horses. When I was three or four I had my first cat. It was called Cheeseburger, because I just wanted a cheeseburger!

Where would you spend all your time if you could? I’d probably spend time working on myself and working on my business.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Hopefully successfully running my own business and trying to have a happy work/ life balance.

PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS

New Medicare Mental Health Centre now provides free support in Dubbo

By SHARON BONTHUYS

WALKING into a warm, welcoming kitchen is probably the last thing anyone would expect when reaching out for mental health support, particularly in a crisis – but this is what visitors to the new Medicare Mental Health Centre (MMHC) in Dubbo will experience.

Designed from feedback provided by 46 other established MMHCs across the country, specifically to remove barriers between those seeking help and those providing it, the Dubbo facility freely dispenses hot drinks along with its advice, guidance and support in a safe, comfortable space.

Yes, you read that right… the Dubbo MMHC is a free, walk-in service that provides accessible, person-centred mental health support to anyone in the community.

It will be open 365 days a year, from 9am to 7pm on weekdays, and on weekends from 4pm to 8pm, including public holidays.

At a time when accessing mental health support in regional and remote areas is neither easy nor cheap, the new Dubbo centre provides:

y Immediate, walk-in mental health support – no referral needed

y One-on-one sessions with mental health professionals

y Personalised care plans to help individuals access the right support

y Guidance on local mental health services, crisis support, and ongoing care

y Family and carer support –helping loved ones navigate the system.

Funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care through the Western NSW Primary Health Network (WNSW PHN), and delivered by providers Stride, Wellways and Clarity Health Care, the new centre at 106 Talbragar Street officially opened on September 30.

Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Emma McBride, cut the ribbon with MMHC peer worker Joanne, one of several at the centre with lived experience who are embedded in the support program working alongside clinicians.

“I have seen a great need for a service like this within our community,” Joanne said.

“Mental health is a lot of different things.”

Politicians, mental health agencies and advocates, and members of the community gathered to tour the new facility and hear about how it will change the lives of people in need walking through the door.

“We all understand the impor-

tance of mental health for ourselves, our friends, our work colleagues and those of us in the community,” WNSW PHN CEO Brad Porter said, indicating the Dubbo MMHC will provide a range of support for adults facing short and medium-term mental health challenges including peerled and clinical support.

“Access to free local mental health support in a welcoming, safe space is important for

strengthening and supporting our communities,” Mr Porter added.

Minister McBride, who has worked in the sector herself and is also Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health, is a passionate advocate for the federallyfunded MMHCs.

“Western Plains locals can now walk into the new Dubbo Medicare Mental Health Centre and access support without an appointment or referral,” she said.

“We’re working collaboratively with the NSW Government to put mental health support and care services in the heart of communities across NSW.”

People seeking information or support can walk straight into the Talbragar Street centre, or be connected with Medicare Mental Health by calling 1800 595 212.

Further information can be found online at www.medicarementalhealth.gov.au.

The new Medicare Mental Health Centre is at 106 Talbragar Street, Dubbo. PHOTOS: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS

This is the kitchen that welcomes walk-ins.

Court appeal looms for Wello inmate Dan Duggan, the subject of weekly Sydney protests

By DAVID DIXON

SYDNEY’S historic Town Hall is a long way from Wellington’s Macquarie Correctional Centre, with a highprofile inmate – currently the centre of a legal fight against the United States Government – the subject of weekly protests in the harbour city.

Former Orange local, Dan Duggan’s appeal against his extradition to America is being heard today, Thursday, October 16, in the Federal Court in Canberra before Justice Stellios, as a group of supporters seek to keep Dan’s case before the public.

Duggan, a former US Marine aviator and now Australian citizen, in 2017 was indicted by a US “grand jury” of violating an arms embargo on China in the form of flight training services he provided two decades ago for Chinese pilots in South Africa.

The regular protests against Duggan’s continuing prosecution – which has the full support of the Australian Government – also includes for a range of Australian citizens the protestors claim have been abandoned by the Commonwealth, organiser, Tony Wakeham, revealed.

“We display a six-metre-long banner clearly stating ‘NO EXTRADITION of AUSTRALIAN CITIZEN DAN DUGGAN to US’ every Friday,” Wakeham said.

“We also gather outside Victoria Barracks, Paddington at 12–1pm every Thursday, and in Hyde Park, Sydney at 12–3pm every Saturday; we also raise public awareness for David McBride, Dr John Wilson, Dr My Le Trinh, Mary Kostakidis, and Richard Boyle,” he added.

The Macquarie Correctional Centre seems an unlikely location for the subject of an international extradition fight after Duggan was arrested by Australian Federal Police in October 2022 as he exited a supermarket in Orange.

With the geopolitical competition for world domination between the Americans and Chinese seemingly heating-up since the re-election of President Donald Trump, supporters fear that this father of six is going to get trampled like the grass – as the traditional Asian proverb states – while the buffaloes fight.

Above: Supporters of Wellington’s Macquarie Correctional Centre high-profile inmate Dan Duggan outside the historic Sydney Town Hall.

Right: Devoted dad, Dan Duggan. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Sydney’s historic Town Hall features weekly protests for Wellington’s Macquarie Correctional Centre highprofile inmate Dan Duggan, who is currently the centre of an extradition fight against the United States Government.

Col Hodges: How is bush racing going?

By DALLAS REEVES

Dubbo Photo News is proud to present the final instalment in the five-part series on veteran race caller, Colin Hodges.

WITH more than 55 years as a race caller across the Central Districts and Western NSW, Colin Hodges is a respected opinion in horse racing.

So, we asked Hodges the question, how is bush racing going?

“The prize money has risen significantly over recent years,” he said.

“There are a lot more trainers around than I’ve ever seen.

“It’s still a hard game … but there are trainers finding they can make a living out of the game a little easier than they could in the past.”

Hodges said one issue is that major corporations have bought properties in Far Western NSW.

What this means is that volunteers that have run the race club have left town.

Hodges said another positive, aside from improved prize money, is the big crowds at country meetings.

He cited Louth, Bedgerabong and Duck Creek (Nyngan) as three meetings in smaller communities that are drawing massive crowds.

Hodges feel keeping the one meeting a year clubs going is crucial.

“People are embracing racing …

a lot of young people are getting to the races again,” he said.

“I think it’s imperative to keep clubs going in remote areas as it’s a great social outlet for people.

“For a lot of those places, the race day is their biggest day of the year.

“When you lose that … you lose a great asset out of your town.”

CROSSROADS BAR SUPPORTS EARLY INTERVENTION

By KEN SMITH

DURING Wednesday Muso’s Night recently, Crossroads Bar presented Orana Early Intervention with a cheque for $700.

Mick Piction from Crossroads is pictured at the front of our photo with Orana Early Intervention representatives Hayley Atkins and Julie Cross, and some of the regulars who make Wednesday nights at Crossroads Bar a must-attend for locals who love their live music.

So many female jockeys today –when once there were none INCREASE in female participation is one of the biggest changes Hodges has seen. When Hodges first started calling, females were not allowed to ride in races. Some pioneers included Margaret DeGonneville, Hodges recalled.

At first, females could only have exhibition races (no prize

money or betting), and then there were only races for prize money and betting against other female jockeys.

Now, Hodges goes to meetings and 80 per cent of jockeys can be female.

“And they’re all outstanding,” Hodges said.

“Within the country, I go to so many meetings where there are more female jockeys, and they are

very very good, too.”

While some people believe horse racing is cruel to the thoroughbred population, Hodges said he believes trainers love their race horses.

“My experience over all these years is that race horses are the best looked-after animals I know of,” he said.

“All the jockeys, trainers and owners I know and see … they are in it to win, they are competitive, but the whole lot of them, they love their animals. They absolutely love their horses.”

The future HODGES, 75, intends to keep going.

“While I’m wanted, I’ll keep calling,” he said.

However, he noted it is a pressure-filled position, particularly with the advent of broadcasting and betting now going across the world.

“I’m calling for people across the world,” he said.

“There is a lot of pressure.

“Sometimes when I’m behind the microphone, I feel like I’m the person getting up to sing the national anthem, terrified they are going to forget the words.

“When I’m calling a race, there might be $100,000 in prize money, but there might be another $200,000 in bets, so I have a responsibility to get it right.

“It is a nerve-racking job. I’ve been doing it for 55 years and I still get nervous.

“You have to have some nerves, or you relax too much.”

Veteran racecaller Col Hodges calling a race at the Tomingley Picnic Races, April 2022. PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS.

A supportive crowd at Muso’s Night recently at Crossroads Bar, where a donation was made to Orana Early Intervention. PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS

Marty Nelson Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Address: 82 Erskine Street, Dubbo | Phone: 02 5820 0986

Family and Dreams: from little things, big things grow!

Marty Nelson’s grit, determination and hard yakka over the past two decades has transformed his Dubbo-based refrigeration and air conditioning business from a home-based one-man-band operation - with a ute borrowed from a mate - to the thriving family enterprise it is today.

Built on foundations with family at its heart, along with the core values of loyalty, honesty and integrity, Marty Nelson Refrigeration and Air Conditioning has continued to grow from strength to strength over the past 20 years and now looks to the future and beyond.

“Over the past couple of years, we have ventured into the commercial space, which has given us the opportunity to grow the business, and challenge ourselves and our people,” principal Marty Nelson told Dubbo Photo News.

e team at Marty Nelson Refrigeration and Air Conditioning recently celebrated this milestone with the opening of their newly renovated facility and showroom in Erskine Street, Dubbo.

Several companies travelled from afar to mark the special occasion, including the owner and General Manager of Ac-

tron, Rob Mundy, and his team, as well as Fujitsu Managing Director Phillip Perham and his team. Representatives from Bonaire and Panasonic also attended.

Family and sta also joined in the celebrations last month at the new showroom. Mr Nelson was keen to acknowledge the support of his family and sta .

“My family has supported me all the way, especially my wife Sally and our four children,” Mr Nelson said.

“And I am proud to say my sons omas and Paddy are moving into key roles within the business.”

Sta are also considered part of the wider Nelson family, he said.

“Everyone who has worked here has contributed to our success; they have helped make the business what it is today.

“Our employees are like family. We are proud of all the sta who have worked with us over the years, always wanting them to feel like they are part of the family,” he added.

“A couple of our young technicians started with us as 16-year-olds and are still with us today.”

e business has also built up over the years through the support of a contin-

gent of loyal cus-

tomers, who Mr Nelson was also keen to thank. Several of them, including local builders, suppliers and real estate agencies, joined the company for the o cial opening on September 12.

“Our customers are at the forefront of everything we do and every decision we make. And we want to thank them for supporting us on our journey,” Mr Nelson said.

“We have worked hard to establish a reputation of trust and credibility with our customers and the community. We’d like to thank everyone - family, friends, customers, trades, suppliers and builders who have been a part of our journey to success.”

Acknowledging the professional respect and trusted relationships developed over many years, Mr Nelson said these were also key drivers of the success of his business.

“Honestly and respect in working with all people is something I have always felt very strongly about, in business and in life,” he said.

“It has been a special feeling seeing the new showroom come to life. Our cus-

tomers have somewhere to visit and chat about their air conditioning needs,” he added.

e renovated showroom has fully operational ducted reverse-cycle air conditioning systems to demonstrate functions and features of the units to customers.

Heavily engaged with the local community, the company supports many local organisations.

“Our aim has and will always be to continue to serve the local community, who have always supported us, community is at the heart of our business,” Mr Nelson said.

“We value and understand our local people and take pride in supporting our community groups such as Dubbo CMYS Football Club, Dubbo CYMS Cricket Club, Senior Campus Astley Cup and the Dubbo Show Society and Dubbo Turf Club,” he added.

Mr Nelson has enjoyed the journey so far and is grateful for all the support that has made his business a success.

“We look forward to continuing to grow and see where the future takes us,” Mr Nelson concluded.

Marty Nelson Fujitsu General Australia

ActronAir. PHOTOS: SNAPS BY MADDS

Macquarie Home Stay celebrates the new facility many communities built

By SHARON BONTHUYS

DUBBO’S own purpose-built accommodation for regional and remote people accessing medical services locally – Macquarie

Home Stay (MHS) – celebrated a major milestone late last month with the opening of a brand new facility.

About 240 people attended the event on Friday, September 26, that formally opened the newlybuilt Country Women’s Association (CWA) of NSW Guesthouse in the MHS grounds.

Major donors, sponsors, political leaders, community members, volunteers, and supporters attended the event and enjoyed an opportunity to walk through the facility afterwards.

The event enabled MHS to express its appreciation to the many communities, individuals, and organisations who have contributed to the facility’s development and MHS’s ongoing operation.

Managing Director Rod Crow-

foot told those gathered that the 51-unit patient accommodation facility played a critical part in the puzzle of regional healthcare.

“Our facilities help connect services, our patients to treatment, and our communities become healthier, stronger, more robust, and we have thriving regional communities,” Mr Crowfoot said.

Over 700 people stayed at MHS during August, with some 4500 in the previous financial year, Mr Crowfoot added. The addition of the new wing will mean an expected 8500 people will get to stay at MHS each year.

While not the only sponsor to support the construction of the new 26-unit facility, the CWA of NSW was given the naming rights to the building as so many local branches contributed to the cost of developing it.

MHS board chair Andrew Single thanked donors for their support, including the NSW government for its funding commitment of $2.5 million, describing them

all as “the Macquarie Home Stay community.”

“You – this community – have enabled this facility to go from a dream to a concept to reality,” he said.

“You also enable us to look forward,” he added, indicating the next project for MHS has been identified and will be revealed in good time.

Dubbo MP Dugald Saunders, who has been heavily involved in gaining government support for

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

is a fellowship of people who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism.

The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking.

There are no dues or fees for A.A. membership; we are self-supporting through our own contributions.

A.A. is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organisation or institution; does not wish to engage in any controversy, neither endorses nor opposes any causes. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.

the project, said community involvement made the new guesthouse possible.

“It’s about a community will –and a community willingness – to want to keep being involved. The effort that people put in every week to be here and support the people staying here continues.

It hasn’t faded. It’s grown,” Mr Saunders said.

CWA of NSW president, Tanya Jolly, and immediate past president, Joy Beames, also addressed

those gathered.

Mrs Jolly paid tribute to the collective efforts by CWA branches in helping fund the facility.

“It is through the generosity of our members and branches that we have proudly contributed well over half a million dollars to this vital facility, funding that has helped make [this guesthouse] a reality,” she said.

Mrs Beames singled out the Dunedoo community for special mention.

“The whole community went above and beyond their usual community contributions and raised the funds for a double room and more in just four months,” Mrs Beames said.

“Not bad for a town of just over 800 people. There are several people in [that] town who have been able to use this facility, and their gratitude is obvious.”

Duty MLC for Dubbo Electorate, Stephen Lawrence, thanked MHS for providing support to many country people.

“The chilling reality in our community, particularly in remote towns, is [some] people are not getting treatment for cancer, and that is due to a whole range of reasons. Those communities, we know, are really among the most vulnerable and disadvantaged communities in Australia. So that, to me, is one of the central, important things about this facility,” Mr Lawrence said.

Some of the dignitaries gathered to cut the ribbon officially opening the facility, before the celebratory cake was also cut and all the guests filed into the new wing to enjoy a delicious light lunch and tour of the new accommodation wing which features a mural acknowledging the support of the many donors who made construction possible.

It was clear to everyone who attended how important MHS is, and why community groups and organisations from across NSW continue to support it.

“We are known for so much more than just the bricks and mortar of a building,” Rod Crowfoot said.

“Our business and accommodation is changing lives, and saving lives, and for that we are truly grateful.”

Over 240 people gathered late last month to celebrate the opening of the newest accommodation facility at Macquarie Home Stay: The CWA of NSW Guesthouse. PHOTOS: MHS.

Dubbo Wagon Wheel Club celebrates 100 years of Royal Far West

By SHARON BONTHUYS

DUBBO Wagon Wheel Club will gather at an event this weekend to not only celebrate the centenary of national charity Royal Far West, but also the dedication of club members who fundraise regularly throughout the year to support the cause.

Club secretary Margaret Ann Mould said the community is welcome to attend the two-course celebratory lunch this Sunday, October 19, at Grapevine Cafe in Brisbane St, Dubbo.

Dubbo MP Dugald Saunders is one of those slated to speak at the lunch, as well as the mother of a child who is a current client of Royal Far West,

which supports country children’s developmental, mental and behavioural health.

The Dubbo Wagon Wheel Club – which has been going for an extraordinary 88 years – has had a decades-long association with Royal Far West and serves as a local branch of the organisation.

“It’s about helping the families of country kids where they struggle to get the medical help they need,” Ms Mould explained.

“People aren’t left out. The whole family goes [away with the child who needs treatment],” she added.

“Education is still important while they’re getting whatever medical assistance they need, and their education is

not being forgotten,” she said of one of the support services offered by Royal Far West.

The club’s committed volunteers run raffles throughout the year, including fortnightly at Ploughman’s Rest Tavern, Wongarbon, and in other locations on Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and at Christmas time.

Sunday’s event is a chance to thank them for their community service and commitment to supporting country children through their volunteering.

Tickets for the lunch can be obtained from 123Tix.

Further information about the work of Royal Far West is available on the organisation’s website.

LIVEBETTER EXPANDS FREE “CARERS BIG LUNCH” SERIES

By SHARON BONTHUYS

LIVEBETTER’S well received “Carers Big Lunch” series is set to expand, with events planned for Broken Hill and Orange next month, Wagga Wagga in February 2026, and another one to be held in Dubbo next March.

It follows the successful first round of the series launched in Orange earlier this year, and which has since visited Wagga Wagga, Bathurst, Griffith, Dubbo, and Mudgee.

According to Kelly McLeay, LiveBetter’s General Manager of Carer and Family Services, these free events offer unpaid carers a rare opportunity to step away from their caring role, enjoy a two-course meal, connect with others on a similar journey, and learn about the supports available through Carer Gateway.

A national survey conducted by Carers NSW in 2022 found that 54 per cent of regional carers feel socially isolated or highly socially isolated, Ms McLeay said.

The study also identified three in five regional and remote carers

were the sole carer for the person they cared for and spent on average 109 hours per week caring, with 52 per cent providing 24/7 care, she added.

“The very nature of caring responsibilities can mean that carers become disconnected from their friends and communities, resulting in social isolation and loneliness,” said Ms McLeay.

“We’re thrilled to expand these events to more locations and believe they will help to tackle some of the distress being experienced by regional carers.”

Hosted by former ABC newsreader Juanita Phillips, each event will also feature special guest Australian singer and Dementia Australia Ambassador, Adam Harvey, who will share his personal caring story.

“We want to see even more carers leave these events having made meaningful connections – and come away with the powerful realisation that they’re not alone,” Ms McLeay added.

Unpaid carers interested in attending an upcoming Carers’ Big Lunch can find out more through Carer Gateway.

RURAL HEALTH MATTERS

Celebrating Dubbo’s

First Medical Students

A milestone years in the making was celebrated in Dubbo as the first group of students to complete the University of Sydney’s Doctor of Medicine (MD) Dubbo Stream will officially graduate this year.

After four years of study, countless exams and a major research project, the 21 graduating students, together with their families, staff, partners and community members, gathered at Lazy River Estate to celebrate their achievements and mark this major step forward in building the future rural medical workforce.

The event recognised

the significant efforts of students, staff, teachers, clinicians and the wider community who have taught and supported our students and helped make it possible to complete the full fouryear medical degree locally through the School of Rural Health in Dubbo.

The MD Dubbo Stream began in 2022, offering students the opportunity to study the entire worldclass program in Dubbo while gaining hands-on experience in rural and remote medical practice. Funded by the Australian Government under the Murray-Darling Medical Schools Network, the program aims to build the

rural medical workforce by training doctors in rural areas.

This celebration provided an opportunity to congratulate the students locally before they attend the official graduation ceremony in Sydney later this year. Many are now preparing to begin their medical careers in rural hospitals next year, building on their commitment to improving health outcomes for rural communities.

Photos: Eadie Photography

Some of the hard working Wagon Wheelers at Narromine when participants in the Royal Far West Ride for Country Kids finished their ride in Narromine earlier this year: Reen Colbran, Kevin Allen, Anne Colbran, Jacqui Emery, Robyn Allen, and Barbara Page.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

LiveBetter’s Carers Big Lunch series is expanding and will make a return to Dubbo early next year. PHOTO: LIVEBETTER

Record showing, sales, at art fair for local creatives

WITH a record showing for their opening night, Dubbo Art Fair certainly reached new heights for their 2025 exhibition period.

The Fair is designed to celebrate the talent of local artists and was held in September and has since been heralded as “a great success”

with both attendance and art sales high.

The event welcomed almost 2000 people through the doors across the weekend and on the opening night with the official launch surpassing previous records with artists collectively selling more than $63,000

in works, Dubbo Mayor, Josh Black revealed.

“It is a real feather in the Dubbo region’s cap,” Cr Black said.

“Dubbo Art Fair gives artists in our region a platform to showcase their art and talk directly with people about their art,” he added.

Also as part of the Dubbo Art Fair, is a free professional development session coordinated for participating artists to help grow and strengthen their skills and knowledge in the local creative sector.

“Having the opportunity to host a professional development session for artists has been a unique addition to the event over the past couple of years,” Council’s Curator, Kent Buchanan enthused.

“It also offers artists in a regional setting access to professional development that is normally only available in metropolitan areas,” he added.

Dubbo Art Fair is supported by Dubbo Council as an initiative of their Cultural Plan and is also supported through funding from the State Government’s Create NSW initiative, money well-spent, if results are anything to go by.

“We are really proud of how far the Dubbo Art Fair has come in its short history,” Mr Buchanan said.

“This year, the sales of art increase by 30 per cent on last year, demonstrating how robust the art sector is and how supportive our community is of the arts,” he concluded.

“BLACK GOLD”: COUNCIL GIVING COMPOST AWAY TO GARDENERS

By DAVID DIXON

BLACK gold to our keen gardeners and veggie growers, Dubbo Regional Council is currently giving it away free!

This month ratepayers and residents have the opportunity to access beautiful loamy compost at no charge, from both the Whylandra Waste and Recycling Facility in Dubbo, and at the Wellington Waste Transfer Station.

The compost giveaway is for domestic use only, however, with each household entitled to take the equivalent of one cubic metre of the good stuff.

Residents must also load the compost themselves into a trailer, ute or bags, though council will provide a shovel at the location for loading.

“The residential compost giveaway last year was very popular, with over 320 tonnes collected by residents,” Resource Recovery and Efficiency Manager Jamie Lobb said.

“The giveaway was in direct response to the community requesting access to the compost product,” he added.

The compost is created from the contents of household green-lid food organics and garden organics (FOGO) bins with the material then processed on-site at the Whylandra tip.

“We have responded to

feedback from last year’s giveaway and extended the giveaway to also be available from the Wellington Waste Transfer Station,” Mr Lobb said. “This allows greater accessibility to the compost during the giveaway period.”

Compost has numerous benefits for plant growth, including assisting to balance soil density, adding and retaining nutrients, and discouraging disease, pests and weeds.

“Residents can use the product in a similar way to council, blending it with sandy loam for application on sporting fields, public gardens, and cemeteries in both Dubbo and Wellington,” Mr Lobb said.

Good quality compost starts at home, he revealed, by putting eligible food organics and garden organics in the green bin and keeping it free of unacceptable items that could cause contamination.

Residents can dispose of food scraps (in a compostable bin liner) or garden cuttings and grass clippings into their green bin rather than using their red bin to help divert waste from landfill.

Compostable bin liners can be requested by contacting the council, in-person at the Customer Experience Centre at Dubbo or Wellington, or via the council website.

A 2025 triumph for local creatives; Gilgandra artist, Je Thomas at the Dubbo Art Fair. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

DUBBO WORKS is highlighting the excellent career and learning opportunities the Dubbo region o ers. To contribute ideas, email dubboworks@dubbophotonews.com.au phone 6885 4433

Sandra becomes a partner at Findex

By SHARON BONTHUYS

LAST month, Dubbo resident Sandra Wolstenholme was promoted to Partner – Business Advisory with integrated financial advisory and accounting services provider, Findex.

It’s a career highlight for Ms Wolstenholme, who has worked with the business since 1998 and has a background in commercial agriculture and her family owns a freight transport business – something that has proven very useful to her work with Findex.

“I understand the stresses and pressures that a business owner is under, and it has given me that extra level of guidance to be able to give to clients,” she said.

Ms Wolstenholme is one of 34 new partners elevated from Findex’s 3000-strong workforce, with 28 from Australia and six from New Zealand. This is a strategic investment in growing Findex’s network of advisory profes-

LOVE YOUR WORK

sionals across more than 100 metropolitan and regional markets, according to Findex co-CEO Matt Games.

“We’re building a nationally connected, communityfocused advice network that is accessible, inclusive and future-ready. Every partner appointment is a step forward in achieving that vision,” he said.

Ms Wolstenholme works in Dubbo with other staff and provides services to a wide range of businesses across an extensive geographic area which extends west to Warren.

“We have a self-managed super fund team here in Dubbo and two financial planners. We also have an audit division. There’s not much that we essentially can’t do for somebody who walks into the local office,” she told Dubbo Photo News

Becoming a partner at this stage in her career is certainly a great achievement, but Ms Wolstenholme also counts witnessing the personal growth of her clients and staff as oth-

er highlights in her career.

“The most important thing for me over the 20-odd years that I’ve been here is being able to watch businesses that come in who have had a struggle, and being able to work with them to move them forward, so they’re now being able to plan for their retirement,” Ms Wolstenholme added.

“To see them go through that whole gambit and then work with them to have a successful retirement is definitely as much of a highlight as my own personal achievements [with Findex],” she said.

“It’s also a highlight to be able to see that growth in individual staff members as well.”

Ensuring that all regional people have access to high quality business and financial advice is crucial, not just those high net-wealth individuals, she added.

“Our financial planners will sit down and talk with anyone who essentially wants to get ahead in life.”

Where do you work? I work at Centacare Central West and Orana.

What’s your job? I’m a HIPPY Tutor. Why do you Love Your Work? I get to make a real di erence in children’s early learning journeys. Helping parents gain confidence in supporting their child’s early learning journey at home is very rewarding. Do you have a special talent? Bringing patience, kindness and a great attitude to everything I do. What’s your favourite thing to do in Dubbo with friends and family?

Wellington Correctional Centre is looking to employ an Assistant Centre Administration Support O cer. The role will undertake a variety of recognised correctional administrative tasks within the areas of general administration, including providing administrative assistance to sta , support for inmate records, warehousing and stores, and records management.

Working within a team environment is important, as is maintaining confidentiality and high attention to detail and accuracy. The role requires the successful applicant to provide excellent customer service with the ability to work under pressure. More details about the role, which closes later this month, can be found on iworkfornsw.gov.au.

Tayyaba Ashfaq

Sandra Wolstenholme is one of 34 new partners appointed across Findex’s Australian and New Zealand Operations. PHOTO: FINDEX

Dubbo couple surprise party guests by tying the knot

FAMILY and friends rocked up to Toongi Hall on Saturday, October 4, expecting to celebrate a joint milestone birthday with two loved ones who had both recently turned 60 – only to find it was actually their wedding.

Dr Benn Bryant, a veterinarian with Taronga Western Plains Zoo, and Dr Jodie Benton, the Dubbobased director of and principal consulting archaeologist with OzArk Environment and Heritage surprised everyone by taking the plunge and getting married.

Dubbo Photo News learned of this when Benn’s proud dad, John Bryant, contacted us.

“Benn and Jodie have been together for 30-plus years, and they both recently turned 60,” he explained.

“They hired the Toongi Hall and invited over 100 friends and rellies to their joint ‘120th birthday party’. There wasn’t a whiff of a wedding – it was a total secret!” he added.

“When we arrived, they had everything set up for a huge birthday celebration – outdoor stage, live band, fire pits, bar, bush lighting, even special printed stubby holders, and full catering,” he explained.

“We all thought, ‘this is a pretty awesome party, but why not, they’ve both worked darned hard and done a great job with their two girls. Plus, they are totally devoted to each other,’” Mr Bryant added.

The surprise was revealed around 5pm, just as the sun was setting, when the band stopped

playing and the true nature of the event was revealed to the highly excited audience.

“We looked around and two beautiful young ladies, Charlotte and Georgia Benton-Bryant, Benn and Jodie’s adult daughters, emerged from the hall, and walked in single file towards the outdoor stage,” he said.

“Following behind were Benn and Jodie, arm in arm, looking

a million dollars. Then someone yelled, ‘It’s a wedding!’ and the place erupted!”

Celebrant Sue Curley emerged and proceeded to marry the couple in a ceremony that included their own specially-written vows, announcing them as “married partners”, Mr Bryant added.

“The party then continued, with all thoughts of ‘birthdays’ forgotten.”

Guests enjoyed delicious food by Smoking Brothers Catering, music by Sim Jullivan band (local high school kids, we understand) and Mick Davis, and entertained by DJ Rob Zee, and were dancing until the “wee hours”.

Mr Bryant expressed his joy at the nuptials.

“My wife Annette and I love Jodie and are very proud to have her as our formal ‘partner-in-law’.

We have considered her a vital part of our family for three decades,” he said.

“Benn and Jodie weren’t going to publicise their union, but I reckon their many Dubbo friends, acquaintances and business contacts will rejoice with these wonderful folk.”

Pictured here with some of their extended family, Dr Jodie Benton and Dr Benn Bryant married on Saturday, October 4, at Toongi Hall. PHOTO: BELINDA SOLLE.

CLASSIC CARS: LIVING THE LIFE OF RILEY

By DAVID DIXON

FOR a distinguished postWar British gent who may not be able to afford a Rolls Royce, a Riley RME Saloon was the next best thing.

The Riley RM Series was an executive car produced by Riley from 1945 until 1955 and, in the increasingly-competitive world market, was the last model developed independently by Riley.

Riley designed and built sturdy, well-engineered cars during the first half of the 20th century, launching many innovative features including leather seats, walnut-veneered dashboards, circular instrument displays, and one of the first engine revolution counters (tachometer).

However, a tendency to produce too great a range of vehicles over a short period, launching saloons, roadsters, sports cars and openseaters, two-, three- and four-door models, all in the same year, led to their eventual merger with Austin and the Nuffield Organisation to form the British Motor Corporation (BMC).

Indicating this tendency to

Above: Classic British postWar car-making for a gent on a jaunt in the English countryside - the 1954 Riley RME Saloon. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Left: Among a dizzy number of bonnet mascots commissioned by the company, was the highly-popular “Ski Lady”. PHOTO: CHRISTIES

spread themselves too thin, the company was one of the few motor manufacturers worldwide that used more than one logo, statuette and marque as their brand.

Among a dizzying number of bonnet mascots was the Riley “Ski Lady”, a very popular adornment that many early cars featured, copied from the idea of lucky figureheads on sailing ships beloved by superstitious sailors.

However, Riley used many more types of figures to adorn different models including birds of prey such as kestrels, merlins and falcons, an angel, Pegasus, the flying horse – and even an elephant.

Riley ended production in the late-1960s with the last Riley-badged cars produced in 1969: the Elf, a Mini-Minor competitor, and the Kestrel, a small family car.

Due to the continuing affection for the brand in Britain, there have been numerous reports of plans to revive the Riley name, as has occurred with other classic English vehicles like the MG, but these have so far come to nought.

Dubbo just loves classic cars!

By KEN SMITH

DUBBO just loves classic cars!

Late last month, Ollie Robbins Oval hosted a visiting fleet of classic SS Jaguar automobiles, local Peter Gaffney’s outstanding 1958 Jaguar, and a number of newer Jaguars on display.

Dubbo, help shape the future of Australian manufacturing

TAFE NSW Manufacturing Centres of Excellence offer a range of fully subsidised short courses. Learn online and on-demand to upskill quickly and contribute to a smarter, stronger, and greener future in manufacturing.

Dubbo Photo News was thrilled to stop by and admire the beautiful classic cars on Saturday, September 27.

True blue classic car enthusiasts will know the company founded by William Lyons in 1933 as “SS Cars” initially built motorcycle sidecars before expanding into car production, and then changed its name to Jaguar Cars in 1945.

TAFE NSW Manufacturing Centres of Excellence specialist courses include: + Advanced Manufacturing

Heavy Industry Manufacturing

Renewable Manufacturing

It was an amazing and well appreciated display featuring cars from the 1930’s through to the high powered luxury of Jaguar’s most recent models.

IN FOCUS

THUMBS UP!

 Thumbs Up to all the baristas in Dubbo. They have so many ways to make hot drinks and it’s great to be able to sit and catch up with friends over a mug of something. Well done to you all.

 Thumbs Up to Langley’s Coaches for their comfortable buses, great service, and being local to boot. Love your work.

 Thumbs Up to Crossroads Bar for being the best live music spot around the traps. I’ll definitely be coming along to as many shows as I can and bringing my friends too.

 Thumbs Up to Tristan from Dubbo City Toyota for his remarkable and friendly service when I was there recently.

 Thumbs Up to Dubbo base hospital for the fantastic treatment that my husband received from all the sta from admission to discharge recently.

 Thumbs Up to the wonderful journalists from DubboPhotoNews in delivering amazing stories each week. And we congratulate you on being one of the three finalists for ‘Overall Newspaper Excellence”. We wish you well with the upcoming 2025 Country Press Awards. A fabulous FREE newspaper. Thanks very much!

If you’d like to send in a Thumbs Up story or photos to our In Focus page, email photos@dubbophotonews.com.au. Please include a caption with each photo letting us know the names of people pictured. We also prefer the originalsized high-resolution versions of contributed photos. They always look much better in our paper.

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE VOICES OF AUSTRALIAN THEATRE

By LANA EATHER

TWO young performers from the Orana Region are heading to Sydney for an exciting two-day Ensemble Theatre residency in late October.

Dubbo’s Reed Quill and Trangie’s Sophia Hayden are preparing to gain invaluable first-hand industry experience from the residency.

Ensemble Theatre Connections (ETC) is a pilot project and partnership between Ensemble Theatre and our own region’s Orana Arts Inc (part of the regional Arts Network of NSW).

Reed and Sophia will participate in industry masterclasses such as script writing and acting, observing rehearsals and the upcoming Ensemble production of “Fly Girl”, including meeting the cast and creative team for more insights and industry advice.

The two will join seven other emerging theatremakers to create a small performance of their own and watch a performance of “Fly Girl”. Developed with Camilla Ward, Creative Producer (Touring and Youth), and Alicia Rodriguez Leggett, Executive Director of Orana Arts, this program is aimed at creating meaningful opportunities for young people in regional areas with a passion for theatre and creative dreams in the arts industry.

Nine participants aged 16-24 years (1-2 participants from each region) from Dubbo, Griffith, Cessnock, Goulburn and Wagga are involved in a structured

five-block program focused on performance, conversation, and professional development. The five dynamic blocks are held throughout the year.

Participants have experienced Ensemble’s touring production of The Queen’s Nanny in their region and met together online for a series of mentorship and industry insights to develop creative ideas and explore theatrical storytelling.

Mentors included Ensemble’s Artistic Director

Mark Kilmurray, and The Queen’s Nanny playwright Melanie Tate.

An undergraduate in English and Theatre Studies at the University of Melbourne, Sophia Hayden applied for the ETC program to further immerse herself into the theatre and arts world, specifically in her area of interest, theatre criticism.

“Growing up in rural New South Wales, theatre and the arts are so often dismissed as ‘unimportant’.

However, this ethos cannot be further from the truth,” Sophia said.

“Theatre and storytelling are such incredible mechanisms to catalyse change, holding the power to dismantle systemic forces of oppression, to represent histories, cultures and lived experiences, and overall, to increase inclusion, all through entertainment.

“This is something that I and many young Australians are deeply passionate about,” she added.

As a strong supporter of the program, Sophia believes it will bring great benefits.

“I believe this program can help immerse otherwise geographically-isolated Australians into the rich and multifaceted world of theatre, allowing our stories to be told,” she said.

“As part of this program, we participate in an immersive residency in Sydney in late October. For me, I am particularly excited to develop my theatre criticism skills through meeting with professionals in the field, through gaining a more holistic understanding of the artistic decisions that impact theatre practically, and through watching performances myself,” Sophia added.

“This is such a fantastic program, especially given it is only in its pilot year. Through this program, I have not only had the opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals in the other young, emerging theatre enthusiasts, but have also gained connections in the theatre industry.”

ETC has been made possible through the partnership of Ensemble Theatre and Orana Arts, with the support of Eastern Riverina Arts, Western Riverina Arts, Southern Tablelands Arts, Arts Upper Hunter, Cessnock Rotary, and venue partners including Dubbo Regional Theatre & Convention Centre (DRTCC), Wagga Wagga Civic Theatre, Performing Arts Centre Cessnock (PACC), Gri th Regional Theatre, and Goulburn Performing Arts Centre (GPAC).

HAVE YOUR SAY

We’re updating the 2016 Dubbo Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan (PAMP) and Bike Plan, along with the 2014 Wellington PAMP, and want to hear from you.

Your insights will help shape the future of pedestrian and cycling infrastructure in our region.

Have your say at yoursay.dubbo.nsw.gov.au

Submissions close 9am, Tuesday 4 November.

NEW CEMETERY MAPPING PLATFORM

Council’s new cemetery mapping platform, Memorial Mapper, is now available for use. Memorial Mapper allows users to search historical records for each gravesite and locate plots available for purchase.

Records are currently available for Dubbo and Wellington cemeteries, with further rollout to other cemeteries in the region occurring in the future.

To access visit dubbo.nsw.gov.au or DRC&ME.

DUBBO DAY AWARD NOMINATIONS

Nominations are now open for the 2025 Dubbo Day Awards, which recognise amazing volunteers in the community.

The Dubbo Day Awards mark the anniversary of Dubbo’s gazettal as a village on 23 November 1849. Nominate a community member who has made a significant contribution to the community.

Nominations close Monday 3 November 2025, visit dubbo.nsw.gov.au/communityawards

TARGETED PRUNING SCHEDULED

Five trees will undergo significant pruning in Macquarie Lions Park and along the eastern bank of the Macquarie River to address a number of safety concerns caused by falling branches.

Four trees will undergo significant pruning to improve structural stability while one tree will have all its limbs removed, however the trunk will remain in place to preserve natural hollows used by local wildlife. Contractors will undertake the works.

Sophia Hayden, who hails from Trangie, heads to Sydney for an exciting two-day Ensemble Theatre residency in late October. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Dolly Parton Festival returns to rave reviews

By SHARON BONTHUYS

NARROMINE became a sea of pink on Saturday, October 11, as the annual Dolly Parton Festival returned to town.

Beautiful warm weather greeted the fourth annual festival, with crowds flocking to the daytime Street Party and the evening concert at Cale Oval.

Numbers appeared to be down a little on previous years at the Street Party but the atmosphere was good and people took the opportunity to investigate what was available from businesses and street stalls along Dandaloo and Burraway Streets.

The evening concert was a runaway success. Dubbo Photo News understands more than 1100 people enjoyed the free evening concert at Cale Oval, which ran from late afternoon through until about 10.00pm.

Headlined by Dolly Parton tribute performer Donna Campbell, who looked very much like the country music icon herself, the concert also featured popular central west rockers Ballz N All, the Country Legend Tribute Band, and Dubbo performer and regular festival alumna Tanya Andrew.

The entertainment had many in the crowd on their feet, especially when host Timberlina encouraged people to join the “mosh pit” at the front and dance the Nutbush, Macarena and YMCA.

We understand just two people were ejected from the evening concert due to poor behaviour. Not bad, considering the thousandplus others enjoying the concert were very well behaved.

Council staff were out early the following day restoring Cale Oval and the town CBD to its original state.

Popular rockers Ballz N All rounded out the festival entertainment.

Cale Oval hosted over 1000 people at the evening concert.

Street Party festival goers enjoying the offerings of local stalls.

Headlined by Donna Campbell, the festival featured excellent entertainment.

The library got their Dolly on, with coordinator Gabby Teale-McEvoy dressing the part as well.

The 2025 Dolly Parton Festival returned to Narromine last weekend to rave reviews. PHOTOS: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS

NEXT COUNCIL MEETING:

WATER NOTICE – FIRST QUARTER

The next Ordinary Council meeting will be held on Wednesday 12 November 2025 at Council Chambers commencing at 5:30 pm.

Water meters have now been read for the first quarter of the 2025/2026 financial year. Notices for this quarter will soon be delivered and are due 20 October 2025. For more information on water and payment options, please visit Council’s website at www.narromine.nsw.gov.au/residents/waterrates or drop by Council’s Customer Service & Payments Centre at 118 Dandaloo Street, Narromine.

PENSION CONCESSIONS ON RATES

If you currently own and occupy a residential property in the Narromine Shire and hold a Pensioner Concession Card you may be entitled to a rebate. For more information, please visit Council’s website www.narromine. nsw.gov.au/residents/pensioner rebates Alternatively, please call Council’s Customer Service team on 02 6889 9999 for more information.

ROAD CLOSURES and ROAD SAFETY

All road updates, traveller information and personalised alerts for all NSW roads including Narromine Shire Council’s roads please visit www.livetraffic.com/ Up to date road closures and information is available 24/7 on livetraffic.com or by phoning council or via social media channels. Motorists are reminded to proceed with caution on all roads. For any further information about Narromine Shire Council’s roads go to www. narromine.nsw.gov.au/residents/roadconditions

DRIVE SAFELY THROUGH ROADWORKS

With multiple road improvement projects currently underway across the Shire, Council urges all motorists to exercise caution when approaching and driving through roadwork zones. Please reduce your speed, remain alert for hazards, and be prepared to stop when required. It is essential to follow all signage, adhere to the designated speed limits, and comply with directions from traffic controllers. The safety of both drivers and road workers depends on responsible and attentive driving.

DETERMINATION OF DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS

Notice is hereby given that Council, pursuant to the provisions of Section 4.59 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, has approved the following Development Applications and Complying Development for the Month of September 2025. Copies of the development consents are available, free of charge, at the Narromine Shire Council building, 124 Dandaloo Street, Narromine between 8.30am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday (excluding Public Holidays).

PUBLIC EXHIBITION

Council at its Extraordinary Meeting held 1 October 2025 resolved that the Draft Code of Meeting Practice 2025 be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days, inviting written submissions for a period of 42 days. Submissions will therefore close Wednesday, 19 November 2025. The document is available to view by visiting Council’s Customer Service and Payments Centre or online at www.narromine.nsw.gov.au/council/publicexhibition

NARROMINE & TRANGIE AQUATIC CENTRES 2025 SWIMMING SEASON

Narromine and Trangie Aquatic Centres are managed by THRIV3 Indigenous Corporation. Official updates and announcements are published on the Trangie & Narromine Aquatic Centres Facebook page. For season passes and pool bookings go to: thriv3aquaticcentres.square.site/contact-us For further information or general enquiries, please contact the management team on (02) 6889 1508 or via email at Pools@THRIV3.com. au.

NARROMINE & TRANGIE AQUATIC CENTRES OPERATING HOURS

Narromine and Trangie Aquatic Centres has commenced the 2025 swimming season

Operating Hours:

Narromine Aquatic Centre

Monday to Friday: 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Weekends: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Trangie Aquatic Centre

Monday to Friday: 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Weekends: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Early Morning Swimming

6:00 am – 8:00 am at both Narromine and Trangie Aquatic Centres

GARAGE SALE TRAIL - NARROMINE

SHIRE RESIDENTS

The 2025 Garage Sale Trail will occur over two weekends of bargain hunting and turning pre-loved items into extra cash on 8–9 & 15–16 November. This is the perfect chance to declutter, make some cash and discover some hidden gems in the Narromine Region!

To find out more visit garagesaletrail.com.au/ narromine

FREE COMPOST AVAILABLE TO ALL RESIDENTS

Narromine Shire Council residents can collect compost for free during our October compost give away. Head to the Narromine, Trangie or Tomingley Waste Facilities during their opening hours and grab your free compost (Don’t forget your shovel). This rich compost is made from the hard work of our residents thanks to everyone using their green-lid FOGO bins.

REGISTER AND MICROCHIP YOUR PET

There are legal requirements to microchip your pets by a certain age, but did you know you also have to register your pets? Registering your pets can give you the ability to assign and update your pets’ details if you move addresses, change contact details or in the case of a change of ownership. Working dogs do need to be microchipped and registered, though registration is at no charge. Find out more about keeping your best mate safe by visiting: www.petregistry.olg.nsw.gov.au

EVENTS COMING UP IN THE NARROMINE REGION

18 October – Meet and Greet Narromine Shire Mayor and Councillors at Tomingley Cross Roads Hotel from Midday until 2:00 pm 23 October – Local Legends, Narromine Business Collective at Narromine Golf Club at 6.30pm Tickets are free at 123tix

28 October – 2 November Australian Aerobatic Championships at Narromine Aerodrome

8-9 November & 15-16 November 2025Garage Sale Trail registrations will open 10 September 2025, for more information www. garagesaletrail.com.au/Narromine

10 December – Narromine Venetian Carnival, Dundas Park commencing at 5:30 pm Narromine & Trangie Libraries have activities for everyone throughout the year - don’t forget to find out what’s going on in your local library by visiting: www.mrl.nsw.gov.au/ OR visit www. narromineregion.com.au/calendar for all events in the Narromine Region.

2025/44 09/09/25 5 Kingsford Smith, NARROMINE 54//1271467

2025/45 04/09/25 129 Minore St, NARROMINE 2//1316759

2025/47 09/09/25 258 Merrits Ln, BURROWAY 48//752600

2025/53 22/09/25 116 Warren Rd, NARROMINE 11//1211605

2025/52 29/09/25 11 Acacia Dr, NARROMINE 209//1283610

Storage Shed IN

House IN

(up to 6 buses) IN

Pool IN

Storage Shed IN

2024/60.2 16/09/25 110 Dandaloo St, NARROMINE 1221 & 122//549625 Change of Use –Office to Laundromat IN Modifications

This council column has been produced by Narromine Shire Council for the benefit of residents of Narromine, Trangie, Tomingley and surrounding areas. Jane Redden, General Manager

MEET & GREET

MAYOR & COUNCILLORS

Tomingley residents are invited to meet Narromine Shire Council’s Mayor and Councillors on Saturday, 18 October 2025, from Midday to 2:00 pm at the Cross Roads Hotel. An opportunity to engage with councillors, ask questions and share your thoughts.

WELLINGTON NEWS

Hydro plan for Burrendong could power ahead the local economy

BURRENDONG Dam could become the centre of a renewable energy revolution in NSW, after recently being shortlisted as a possible site for a major hydro-

electricity project.

The local facility was part of only three major water supply utilities out of 41 in the State – Blowering near Tumut in the Snowy

SIX DECADES ON, REMEMBERING THE FREEDOM RIDE THROUGH WELLINGTON

Mountains and Hume in the Riverina being the other two – that were shortlisted for the initiative.

Burrendong’s inclusion followed pre-feasibility studies to identify which dams met suitable: “terrain, geotechnical conditions, environmental factors, and grid connectivity,” WaterNSW Head of Major Projects, Mark Roberts, revealed recently.

“This announcement is an important milestone in identifying new sites at WaterNSW dams that could host more privately-developed long-duration pumped hydro projects to support the State’s renewable energy transition,” Mr Roberts explained.

“It’s important to note the sites at Blowering, Burrendong and Hume dams have not been confirmed for development, and more detailed studies are needed to confirm their potential viability,” he added.

Potential benefits for the region, however, could be wide-ranging and ongoing, however with hun-

By DAVID DIXON

The past is another country, they say and, 60 years on from Charles Perkins’s “Freedom Ride” through western NSW, it’s hard to believe how different life in towns like Wellington was for Indigenous Australians.

Inspired by the American Freedom Rides of the early 1960s highlighting racial discrimination against black Americans, Perkins, a student activist, led an Australian equivalent to address racial discrimination against First Nations people in 1965.

Wellington was actually the first major stop on the tour, where the Student Action for Aborigines (SAFA) group – mostly from the

dreds of jobs and millions in infrastructure expected from similar projects already in the pipeline. As part of the project to identity Burrendong’s suitability, WaterNSW will next carry-out on-site studies including geological surveys, environmental and cultural heritage checks, mapping, and discussions with local landholders.

Future development would also require environmental studies, ongoing community consultation and formal government planning approvals.

“This work forms part of WaterNSW’s broader commitment to supporting the NSW Government’s renewable energy and emissions reduction targets,” a WaterNSW statement said.

“It will also help diversify regional economies, grow jobs, support local communities, and generate revenue to put downward pressure on water costs for customers,” they added.

If selected, Burrendong could help provide up to 5.2 GW of addi-

University of Sydney – gathered information on racism and social inequality. As well as Wellington, other stops included Gulargambone, Walgett, Moree, Boggabilla, Lismore, Grafton, Bowraville, and Kempsey.

To help commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Ride, local historian, Patrick Bourke, recently provided DubboPhotoNewswith some first-hand observations on the local stopover.

“It’s sad to enter this town and see how fellow Aboriginals are living; to see the run-down shacks that are crowded with people and to see little children drinking filthy water,” Perkins wrote.

“Our mission is simple: we want to

draw public attention to the poor state of Aboriginal health, education and housing,” he added.

His aim, he said, was not just to show the levels of discrimination experienced by Aboriginal Australians, but also to help empower themselves.

“We hope to point out and help lessen the socially discriminatory barriers which exist between Aboriginal and white residents.

“Also, we wish to encourage and support Aboriginal people themselves to resist discrimination,” Perkins explained.

One of the students on the Ride also later wrote:

“We chose Wellington so we could survey the people about the way

tional pumped hydro energy storage to the NSW market by 2034.

One of these existing projects –ACEN Australia’s Phoenix Pumped Hydro at Burrendong Dam – has also been awarded a Long-Term Energy Service Agreement (LTESA), a step towards the facility becoming part of the state’s power grid in the future.

The media release revealed that, any projects developed will be owned and funded by the private sector with all land continuing to be owned by WaterNSW.

It also assured current users that any development would not affect water entitlements to customers or water security for communities and the environment.

WaterNSW will also hold community drop-in sessions near the newly-shortlisted sites to share information and hear local views on the project.

they live and the way they get treated, as well as if their children get to go to school,” the student wrote.

“But I didn’t need to ask, as I could see the answers with my own eyes. I could see how they are treated like outcasts and placed on reserves outside of town as if to not ‘infect’ the white fellas,” they concluded.

The huge publicity generated by the Freedom Ride, however, saw active discrimination ultimately abolished in all areas of Australian life. It was also the precursor to the successful 1967 referendum that allowed for First Nations people to be counted in the census for the first time and for laws to be made for their benefit.

Power from water; Burrendong Dam could become the centre of a renewable energy revolution in NSW, after recently being shortlisted as a possible site for a major hydro-electricity project. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Renters surprise winners from cheaper mortgage deposits

By ZAC DE SILVA

Lower rents shape as a bonus consequence of rules allowing first home buyers to get a mortgage with just a five per cent deposit, analysts say, even though the policy is likely to push up property prices.

The key election promise from Labor was aimed at making it easier for young Australians to get on the property ladder.

Allowing more people to buy their own house or unit could also reduce demand for rentals and pressure on rents, Domain chief of research and economics Nicola Powell said.

“What that will do is fast-track a lot of tenants transitioning to being home owners, which should also help ease the demand,” she told AAP.

But the policy isn’t all good news, with experts warning the decision to remove a barrier to getting a mortgage – saving for a deposit – could increase demand among homebuyers.

Treasury modelling suggests cheaper deposits will push up house prices by half a per cent over six years, but the insurance council has warned the impact could be as large as 10 per cent in the first year alone.

A report from Domain, released last week, also shows the string of rapid rent increases over the past three years has likely come to an end, with rent growth across Australia’s combined capital cities remaining fl at for two consecutive quarters.

House and apartment rents are at record highs, but they’ve remained mostly steady over the past quarter.

In Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth and Canberra, average house rents didn’t change over that period.

Brisbane and Hobart ticked up, and Darwin outstripped all other capitals with a 5.9 per cent increase.

For apartments, average rents in Hobart and Perth went backwards.

Unit rents in Sydney, Brisbane and Darwin increased and all other capitals remained steady.

Vacancy rates remain low, meaning landlords may still hold the upper hand in price negotiations.

But Dr Powell said any further rent increases were likely to be unaff ordable for many Australians.

“We’re slowly starting to see a rebalance occur... tenants can only keep up so much,” she told AAP.

An influx of new rental properties has also helped ease demand, as has lower population growth.

More first home buyers could result in less demand for rentals, real estate analysts predict. PHOTO: AAP/MICK TSIKAS

Future homeowner: consider the advantages of building a new home

Western Plains windows & glass

Security

All

Commercial

Building a home from scratch may require more time and eff ort than buying an existing one, but it off ers undeniable advantages. Here’s a look at some key benefits to help you in the decision-making process.

Healthier and safer living environment

When you build a new home, the construction must comply with the latest building standards. This ensures your home is safe and free from the risks often found in older homes, such as water damage, mould and, in some cases, asbestos.

Enticing financial programs

Depending on where you live, you may qualify for various financial incentives when building a new home. For example, you might receive partial tax rebates on construction costs or secure completion guarantees that protect against potential defects.

Additionally, some government programs off er assistance for first-time homebuyers, along with grants to help you build your home to high energy efficiency standards. Make sure to explore these options!

A home that reflects you

Building a new home gives you the chance to live in your dream neighbourhood, near the amenities you need, all while creating a space tailored to your personal taste. Your new space will reflect who you are, making it a place where you truly feel at home. Contact professionals in your area, such as real estate agents, architects and building contractors, to start laying the foundation for your future cosy nest. Always seek professional advice to suit your specific circumstances.

Why you should consider motorised blinds and curtains

When choosing new window treatments for your home, consider upgrading to motorised blinds and curtains. These innovative coverings off er numerous benefits.

• They’re convenient. You can easily adjust the position of your window coverings with the push of a button. They allow you to control natural light, privacy and room ambiance eff ortlessly. Open or close them all at once or customise settings for individual windows.

• They’re smart. Many motorised systems can be integrated with smart home platforms like Alexa or Google Home, enabling voice-activated control or scheduled adjustments. You can also open or close your blinds from anywhere and at any time using your smartphone.

• They’re safe. Motorised blinds and curtains eliminate the need for traditional cords and chains, an excellent safety feature in homes with children or pets. You reduce the risk of accidents and enjoy more peace of mind.

• They improve efficiency. Programming blinds and curtains to open or close at specific times of the day helps regulate indoor temperatures. Closing blinds on hot summer days blocks out the sun’s heat, reducing the need for air conditioning. This energy-efficient approach can lower your power bills and reduce your environmental impact.

Visit your local home improvement store or window covering retailer to find the perfect set of motorised blinds and curtains for your home.

How to tell your story through interior design

Interior design is a tool for self-expression and a way to convey your personal story, values and experiences. Here are six ideas to help you tell your unique story through your home’s interior design.

1. Personal art and collections. Showcase your personality and interests by displaying personal art, photographs or collections.

2. Colours. Choose a colour scheme that resonates with your emotions and experiences. Warm, earthy tones can create a cosy, welcoming atmosphere, while vibrant colours can express energy and creativity.

3. Texture and materials. Incorporate textures and materials that reflect your lifestyle and experiences. Natural wood and stone convey a connection to nature. Metallic accents can suggest modernity and sophistication.

4. Customisation. Furniture, handcrafted pieces or personalised wall art can be tailored to your tastes and experiences, making them meaningful additions to your home.

5. Storytelling décor. This could be a vintage map representing your travels, a bookshelf filled with your favourite reads or a tapestry from a place that holds sentimental value. These elements can serve as visual storytelling devices.

6. Personalised spaces. Dedicate specific areas of your home to diff erent aspects of your life. Create a reading nook, a meditation corner or a hobby space that speaks to your interests and passions.

Visit your local stores for inspiration and enlist the help of an interior designer for more great ideas.

Eco-friendly cladding solutions for your home

When it comes to choosing an ecofriendly cladding solution for your home, a wide array of environmentally responsible options is available. These sustainable choices reduce your carbon footprint and off er durability and aesthetic appeal. Here’s a breakdown of some popular eco-friendly materials for exterior walls:

1. Eco-friendly wood. Wood adds a natural, rustic charm to your home. When shopping, look for timber cladding with the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) logo. This certifies that the product comes from a responsibly managed forest. The Forest FSC is an international organisation, represented in Australia from its Melbourne offices.

2. Sustainable bricks. More and more “ecological” bricks are being introduced to the market. These bricks are often made from compressed raw earth, recycled glass or hemp. They require less energy to manufacture than traditional bricks.

3. Recycled metal. Metal cladding, particularly when made from recycled materials, is a durable and lowmaintenance option. It can be recycled again at the end of its lifespan, reducing waste.

4. Local natural stone. If you’re looking for durable cladding that off ers timeless elegance, consider using natural stone. However, make sure you buy from a local supplier!

Each of these eco-friendly materials off ers unique benefits for external walls on homes, from aesthetics to insulative properties. When considering an upgrade, ask a professional for advice.

Harlan Stephen Crawford (M)

Born: 30/9/2025

Weight: 3910g

Parents: Tiarna Allison and Jaman Crawford

From: Dubbo

Siblings: Jakobi (8) and Embri (2 1/2)

Grandparents: Kylie Crawford, Fiona Allison, Will Allison.

Hatches

Louie Peter Waugh

Born: September 27, 2025

Weight: 2.9kg

Parents: James and Rachel Waugh, Dubbo

Siblings: Ellie (4), Noah (1)

Lea-Anna Driscoll (F)

Born: 30/09/2025

Weight: 3580g

Parents: Shara Haagsma and Cohen

Driscoll

From: Bourke

Grandparents: Skye Gri ths, Mark Haagsma, Neil Driscoll, Lea-Anne Driscoll.

Grandparents: Louise and Russell Brown, Forbes; David and Wendy Waugh, Forster

Great-Grandparents: Isobel Davey, Forster; and Anne Waugh, Wauchope

Delilah Grace Clark (F)

Born: 30/9/2025

Weight: 3010g

Parents: Becky Ervine and Lachlan Clark

From: Warren.

IgGy (3) Toby (23 months)

Abigail (8)

(5)

Lachlan (7)

Prejna (6)

Oliver (7) Orla (6)

Leon (8)

MolLy (9)

CharlotTe (8)

Dulcie (5)

Wolf (6)

Emily (9)

Myles (5)

PraneEl (5)

Rishelia (8)

How

Rosie

What

What

KiDZ ONLY!

WHAT KIDS SAY

KNOW A BIRTHDAY CHILD THIS MONTH?

Send in a photo, details and a short birthday wish, and your special birthday child will be elligible for a FREE kids doughnut to help them celebrate! Send entries to: myentry@dubbophotonews.com.au Entries must be in by 5pm Friday the week before.

Crowds come out to support Holland Open Garden

THE Holland Open Garden and Memory Makers Art Prize, which raises funds for a number of initiatives involving dementia and supports the arts, took place last Saturday and Sunday, October 11-12, in the spectacular Colony Crescent garden of Lorraine Holland right here in Dubbo.

The weekend was packed with interesting and informative sessions by gardening guru Brendan Moar and artist Ken Tucker.

The Holland family, strong supporters of the arts, also hosted the Memory Makers Art Prize, showcasing creative works that celebrate memory and the impact of dementia. Winners of the various categories of the Art Prize were announced at the cocktail party on Saturday night, which also featured a special performance by country music star

Adam Harvey - himself a dementia advocate.

Lyndal McRae walk away with the Memory Makers Art Prize, while other category winners in the highly regarded local art competition included:

 “Still Life or Blooms” – Noelene Rawson

 “Birds, Animal, People” – Leanne Watts

 “Landscape” – Frits Bos.

From those who attended, including DubboPhotoNewsphotographer Ken Smith, the Saturday night event was a fantastic evening with perfect weather.

“Adam Harvey live in the garden was simply sensational,” a guest commented.

On Sunday, October 12, Holland Open Garden guests were treated to a special performance by Dubbo’s

own Sing Out Choir, who performed while Ken Tucker painted live in the back garden.

Dementia is a cause close to the hearts of the Holland family, with patriarch Alex Holland diagnosed with Younger Onset Alzheimer’s Disease and eventually passing away aged in his mid-60s in 2021.

The Holland family has since raised tens of thousands of dollars to support dementia research and other initiatives including the work of Dementia Australia, Dubbo Dementia Alliance, and the Sing Out Choir.

“Congratulations to Lorraine and Laura who, again, worked their magic with the help of many behind the scenes to create an event that is highly anticipated and a must attend for many,” a guest concluded.

Megan Harrison and Garry Todd from Dubbo Dementia Alliance

Ken Tucker painting live in the gardens during the Sing Out Choir Performance on Sunday

Landscape Architect Brendan Moar and Fay Woods

In key: Anne Gemmel, Sharon Simons and Camilla Ward

Rita Hermansen, Landscape Architect Brendan Mohr and Lorraine Holland. PHOTOS: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS

Jim Briton, Susie Rowley, John Stonestreet and Allan Clarke from Rotary Club of Dubbo Macquarie

Debbie and Doug Aldis, Sally Dess and Kay and Brian Co ey

Libby McMahon, Savannah McMahon and Rachel Miller

Michele Simpson, Lyndal McRae and Leanne Medcalf at the Holland Open Garden event last weekend, October 11-12. PHOTOS: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS

Camilla Ward and Sharon Simons

Lorraine Holland and special guest performer, Adam Harvey

Jim Briton, Dianne Arthur with Maree and Ken Williams

Event host Lorraine Holland and Pam Wells

Laura, Phillipa and Rachel

Justine Campbell, Jude McNamara and Frances Rowley Gill Pedrana, Jenet Stewart and Lea Tucker

The Sing Out Choir performed on Sunday, October 12.

Adam Harvey Live in the Garden

Laura Holland, Ken Tucker, Noelene Rawson (Still Life or Blooms Winner) and Justine Campbell

Tracy and Maureen

Ida and Kreete

PUZZLES

Reproduce (9)

Holy person (5)

Brittle (7)

Helps (7)

Governed by bishops (9)

Gullible (5)

Measure of interstellar distance (5-4)

Monaco, Singapore or Vatican City, for example (4-5)

Lawyer (9)

Replying (9)

Greek restaurant (7)

Hollow and curved (7)

Intelligent (5)

Regions (5)

Bottomless gulf (5)

drive, pave, paved, private, privet, privy, rave, raved, rive, rived, rivet, vapid, varied, variety, vary, verity, very, vide, vied, viper, vita, vitae

YOUR STARS

Each

ARIES: You’ll allow yourself some well-deserved moments of relaxation and enjoyment this week. Additionally, you’ll skilfully negotiate better payment arrangements, which will result in positive impacts for both your professional projects and your personal well-being.

TAURUS: You’ll have to face a series of professional challenges this week. However, each di icult situation will turn out to be an enriching experience for you. These stressful moments will help you sharpen your skills and ultimately enhance your expertise.

GEMINI: You will have an experience that tests your pride. However, the situation will give you the perfect opportunity to set yourself apart from the crowd. By sharing helpful information, you’ll build strong relationships that will support your personal and professional goals.

CANCER: You’ll have to juggle various family responsibilities this week. This may put you in the position of needing to stay home to supervise

QUICK QUIZ

1. The tree genus Salix is more commonly known by what name?

2. Which TV series centres around the angel-devil duo Aziraphale and Crowley?

3. As of 2025, who is the highest-grossing female actor of all time?

4. Which fruit is the main ingredient in a som tam Thai salad?

5. From which country did the Christmas tree tradition originate?

renovation work or wait for a delivery. Patience will be essential, but you’ll find some relief in the end.

LEO: You’ll have to juggle multiple tasks this week, and your phone will be ringing o the hook. Whether you’re interacting with your partner or others, you can maintain peace and harmony by taking care not to be overly critical.

VIRGO: Be vigilant about your finances and be careful not to spend beyond your means. Unexpected home or family expenses may arise this week. Take a disciplined approach to managing your budget, especially if you have young children.

LIBRA: The arrival of warmer weather may make you want to focus on your well-being. Getting a gym membership could be an excellent way for you to incorporate regular exercise into your summer routine.

SCORPIO: Take time to think things through before making an important decision. Don’t rush into anything, but let yourself be guided by your intuition. Time will provide the

6. True or false: pogonophobia refers to a fear of needles?

7. Which character is also the narrator in Donna Tartt’s novel The Secret History?

8. Glenn Close (pictured) appeared in a live-action Disney adaptation as which villain?

9. In which sport would you use a foil?

10. The ancient Egyptian goddess Bastet is commonly depicted with the head of what animal?

answers you need; just go with the flow.

SAGITTARIUS: Be careful what you say and do this week, as you might unintentionally o end someone. Fortunately, the incident will have little consequence and may have the e ect of lifting the mood and easing tensions around you.

CAPRICORN: Your time is precious, so avoid overloading your schedule. Arranging too many appointments could lead to scheduling conflicts. A well-deserved holiday could help you recharge your batteries and regain your energy.

AQUARIUS: As the days get longer, you’ll crave excitement. This sense of restlessness will prompt you to seek out more moments of pleasure and entertainment; they will feel like a breath of fresh air.

PISCES: Your emotions will be running high this week. A specific event might prompt you to rethink certain aspects of your life. You’ll attract the attention of a competitor who will o er you better working conditions. The luckiest signs this week: Sagittarius, Capricorn and Aquarius.

Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

DOMAIN DRONE

EMAIL

ENCRYPTION ENERGY ETHERNET FAST GAMES HTML INNOVATION LASER MATH MICRO MOUSE

NANO OPTICS PHONE POWER SCIENCE SKILL SONAR SPACE SPAM SYSTEM TABLET

Place each of the tiles of letters into the blank jigsaw below to create four

Insert each number from 1 to 9 in the shaded squares to solve all the horizontal and vertical equations. Multiplication and division are performed before addition and subtraction.

INSANITY STREAK by Tony Lopes

OUT ON A LIMB by Gary Kopervas

WUMO by Wulff & Morgenthaler

Where will DPN snap you in Dubbo and surrounds?

The RFDS Outback Trek Cafe was the perfect place for some of the region’s civil celebrants to gather for lunch recently. With “wedding season” well underway, the group enjoyed catching up and talking

Big

about some of the latest changes to practice introduced by the federal Attorney-General’s Department, which oversees the county’s 52-year-old marriage celebrants’ program.

birthday for young Harrison

All the action from HIPPY’s recent Open Day. PHOTOS: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS

Dubbo region celebrants Mandy Ellis, Wendy Shepherd, Sharon Bonthuys, Peter Woodward and Helen McLean at the RFDS Outback Trek Cafe recently. PHOTO: PETER WOODWARD

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Harrison Leach celebrated his 18th birthday at the Nevertire Hotel earlier this month.

Helping him celebrate the big occasion are, at back, Frank, Harper, and Marilyn Leach, Judy Ridley, and Duncan Harrison. At front, the birthday boy, Dean, and Harrison and Alisha Leach. Have a great year, Harrison.

The HIPPY Dubbo’s Open day recently was a dream come true for children, parents and carers. Faces were cheerfully painted, unlimited fairy floss on hand and of course a jumping castle made for a wonderful first Wednesday

of the school holidays. The program opened its doors to encourage families with young children to sample the free two-year, play-based curriculum for children in the two years before Kindergarten.

By LANA EATHER

RIGHT AT HOME WESTERN NSW 1st BIRTHDAY

Staff from Dubbo-based Right at Home Western NSW recently celebrated the organisation’s first anniversary.

Right at Home provides a range of services designed to help clients live safely and independently in their own homes, including complex nursing care, personal and companion care, domestic assistance, shopping and transport

Nat, Fleur, Dieta, Lisa, Brenton and Jenny

Ester and Julia

Jenny and Brenton

Right at Home – Western NSW. Photos: Dubbo Photo News / Ken Smith

Jennie, Jenny, Julie and Lyndon

Fleur, Dieta, Lisa, Nat and Denise

Dieta, Lisa and Fleur

FUNERAL NOTICES

Christina Jean Smythe

Late of Dubbo, formerly of Mudgee

Passed away 1st October 2025

Aged 88 years

Loving mother and mother-in-law of Jane, Lisa & Lee, Michael & Andrea.

Great Grandmother of Mabel & Clemmie.

Christina’s funeral service will be held at St Brigid’s Catholic Church, Brisbane Street, Dubbo, commencing at 1.30pm on Friday 31st October 2025, followed by interment in the Western Districts Memorial Park, Boothenba Road, Dubbo.

In lieu of floral tributes, donations to Meals on Wheels Dubbo would be appreciated and may be left with the funeral directors at the service.

Funeral arrangements are in the care of The Abbey Funeral Home Dubbo 02 6881 8988

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18

FACE IN THE

CROWD

Better known as ‘Bob’

Late of Gunnedah, formerly of Dubbo. Passed away 9th October 2025. Aged 87 years.

Loving husband of Margaret. Beloved father and father in-law of Stephen & Hazel, Leann & Steve and Sue & Chick.

Cherished pop of Melanie, Teagan, Scott, Jayden and Bob.

Loving old pop of all his great grandchildren. Relatives and friends are warmly invited to attend Bob’s funeral service to be held graveside at Western Districts Memorial Park Lawn Cemetery, 11L Boothenba Road, on 22nd October, 2025, commencing at 11am.

Funeral arrangements are in the hands of

LARCOMBE & SON - 6882 3199

8AM - 2PM Murtle Garage Sale Something for everyone (household goods, furniture) 17 Diane St, Dubbo

SATURDAY 25TH / SUNDAY 26TH 8:30AM

27 Bowden Fletcher Drive, Narromine Lots of

If you can find our Face In the Crowd, you could win a $80 voucher to spend at PIZZA CRAVINGS! Somewhere amongst the faces in this edition of Dubbo Photo News you will find the face shown above. Once you have found our Face in the Crowd, write the page number and approximate location on the back of an envelope along with your name, address and daytime contact number. Send it to: FACE IN THE CROWD, Dubbo Photo News, Unit 5/33 Hawthorn St, Dubbo NSW 2830 or email details to: myentry@panscott.com.au Oneentryperweekperpersonplease.Entriescloseatthe endofthemonth.Allentriesreceivedduringthemonthgo intotheonebigdraw.Thefirstcorrectentrydrawnwins.

Robert Henry Purseglove

Servicing Dubbo and Narromine

40 words or less, and are only for not-for-profit community groups . Placement will be at the editor’s discretion and subject to space availability – because Diary listings are free! Please include your daytime phone number and/or address when submitting details. Entries close 10am Tuesday

ON THIS WEEK

Cumnock Community Family Fun Day: Free family-friendly event, Saturday, October 18, 10am-3pm at Cumnock Memorial Oval. Free entertainment and activities. Take the scenic route between Dubbo and Orange, stop in and help us raise funds to improve our local park.

Dubbo Wagon Wheel Club: Join us for a two-course lunch on Sunday, October 19, at Grapevine Cafe, Brisbane Street, Dubbo, as we celebrate 100 years of Royal Far West and our volunteers. Tickets $35 (adult), $127 (child) from 123Tix.

National Association for Loss and Grief (NALAG): Our centre in Welchman Street, Dubbo, will host a Remembering Ceremony for pregnancy and infant loss on Friday, October 17, from 6.30 – 8pm, including a light meal. For details, visit the NALAG website or call (02) 6882 9222.

Swap Books and Enjoy Wine: Free community event! A friendly evening to swap books, meet new people, and enjoy some time together. Friday, October 17. Commercial Hotel, Dubbo. From 6.30pm. Contact Roberta 0468 852 899 for more information.

COMING SOON

Dubbo District Concert Band: Join us on Sunday, November 2, for an afternoon of musical magic with our Spring Concert in the Dubbo RSL Auditorium. Doors open at 1.30pm, showtime 2pm. Entry costs $5 at the door.

RECURRING (MULTIPLE DAYS)

Akela Playgroup: Wednesday, 10.30am (Scout Hall), Thursday 9.30am. Akela St, Sharna 0438 693 789. Alcoholics Anonymous: Friday 7pm AA Mtg(ID Mtg), Sun 7pm AA Mtg(Steps & Traditions) Dubbo Community Health, Palmer St. Contacts (Fri) Dee 0417 422 750), (Sun) Sally 0427 829 807. Mon 12pm Daily Reflections

Mtg. Wed 7pm Topic Mtg. St Brigid’s Catholic Church rooms, 198 Brisbane St. Contacts (Mon) David 0417 063 087, (Wed) Ian 0447 176 590. Info 1300 222 222 www.aa.org.au.

Book Shop run by Wellington Lions: Open Thursday to Saturday 10am to 2pm in Kimbell’s Kitchen, diagonally opposite Wellington Information Centre. Lots of preloved books, DVDs, CDs most only $2. Also jigsaws available. Di erent stock coming in all the time.

Catholic Healthcare – Dementiafriendly day respite: Mon-Fri, 9am4pm. A caring day away from home with engaging activities, trained sta , nutritious meals, and a safe, social space promoting independence and wellbeing. Kelly 0478 282 588.

Croquet: 8.15am for 8.30am start, Tuesday, Thursday. Croquet courts, Brisbane St, North Dubbo. Kate 0409 927 140, Lillian 0429 471 921. Dubbo Arts & Crafts Society

Cottage, 137 Cobra St: Thursday, 10am-3pm. Contact 6881 6410. Friday, 10am - Spinning and Weaving. Anne 0408 891 225. Saturday Art, Ellen 0427 827 851. Monday, 10am-3pm - Patchwork. Lyn 0429 635 489. THIRD Tuesday of the month, 10am - Silver Craft. Julie 0418 976 663. Dubbo Community Men’s Shed Inc: Mondays 9am-1pm and Thu/Sat 1pm-5pm. Small joining fee after three visits. All men are welcome, Peter 02 6881 6987. Dubbo Embroiderers: Saturdays, Macquarie Regional Library - 10am-3pm. SECOND and FOURTH Tuesday of the month, Dubbo Bridge Club, Elston Park, Bultje St Dubbo - 9.30am-3pm. All are welcome. Patricia 0439 846 400. Heart Support Walking Group: 12.30pm, Tuesday and Thursday, Ollie Robbins Oval, Cnr of Bligh Street. Supports gentle exercise promoting healthy hearts, contact Ray 0437 541 942. Line Dancing: Thursday 9:30am-12pm. Wednesday 6:30pm-8:30pm. Greek Hall cnr Gipps and Roper Sts Dubbo. All welcome, no experience needed. $10/class, first class free. dubbolinedancers@gmail.com or Trudy 0423 189 849.

Narromine Community Women’s Shed: 10am-3pm, Monday and Wednesday, The Wesley Centre, 138 Dandaloo Street, Narromine. Leona 0487 200 987.

THURSDAY

Above Board Gamers: SECOND and FOURTH Thursday of the month, 6pm, Devil’s Hollow Brewery. Alan 0432 278 235. Badminton: 7.30pm-9.30pm, Delroy High School Auditorium, East Street, West Dubbo, $5 to play, $22 insurance ($20, school students). Chris 6887 3413. Bingo – South Dubbo Veterans & Community Men’s Shed: 11am12.30pm, West Dubbo Bowling Club. Barry 0439 344 349.

Co ee, Craft and Chat: 9.30am-12pm, Gospel Hall, Cnr of Boundary Road and Taylor St. Anne 0428 425 958.

CWA Dubbo: FIRST Thursday of the month, 9.30am-11am, Oak Tree Retirement Village Peel Street, Dubbo. Marion 6884 2957. CWA Wongarbon Handicraft: SECOND Thursday of the month, Liz 0401 174 883. CWA Wongarbon: FIRST Thursday of the month, 10am, Wongarbon CWA rooms. Marjorie 6884 5558.

Family History Society (Dubbo & District): 1pm-4pm, volunteers on site during these hours, Western Plains Cultural Centre Community Arts Centre, Cnr Wingewarra and Gipps St Let’s Walk together: 10am Thursdays weekly meet at Regand Park near the Walkway Bridge. Everyone is welcome. Supported by the Heart Foundation. Contact Jimmy at Connecting Community Services 1800 319 551.

Macquarie Masons Dubbo: SECOND Thursday of the month. All visitors are welcome, John O’Brien 0405 051 896. Outback Dragons Dubbo: 5.45pm (in

summer), Sandy Beach amenities block. Come and try dragon boating, your first fi ve paddles are FREE. info@outbackdragons. com.au, Robyn 0427 462 504.

Wellington Arts and Crafts: 10am3pm, Small Hall in the Anglican Church grounds, Wellington, variety of crafts, activities and workshops o ered. Dorothy 0408 601 066.

FRIDAY

Catholic Healthcare – Mind + Move: Fridays – Remain Active 9-10am. Fun, movement, and connection in a supportive space. Kelly 0478 282 588.

Central West Makers Place: 12pm6pm, South Dubbo Veterans and Community Men’s Shed, Cnr Palmer and High Streets. 3D printing, robotics, pottery, and more. Adam 0431 038 866.

Community Kitchen: FIRST Friday of the month, 6.30pm, Holy Trinity Hall, Brisbane St, free meal.

Dead End Co ee Club: Narromine’s own “death cafe” discussing end of life issues to improve death literacy meets on the first Friday every month at Platform 11 Cafe, Burraway St, Narromine. FREE. Enquiries: Kaz Hamilton 0437 897 148.

Dubbo Nepalese Christian Fellowship: 6.30-8pm. Cyrel 0416 826 701, Kabita 0452 406 234.

Dubbo Parkinson’s Support Group: FIRST Friday of each month, 10.30am, Horizons village, Minore Road, Dubbo. Marsha Isbester 0427 373 842.

Holy Trinity Kids Club: For ages 6-12 years. Holy Trinity Hall – 158 Brisbane Street. 4-5.30pm. Every 2nd Friday – School Term. Phone Justin 0411 250 760 for more information.

Lunchtime Prayer Group – Dubbo Anglican Church: 1-2pm in Brotherhood House, 158 Brisbane Street. Bring your lunch. Narromine Food Barn: 8.30am-11am, Low-cost groceries, fruit, vegetables and FREE bread with any purchase to people in need. Geo Smith 0427 895 447.

Tai Chi at U3A: 10am, at the Community Arts Centre, Western Plains Cultural Centre, 76 Wingewarra Street. Richard 6888 5656. Urban Tribe: 2pm, with dancing, music, singing, caring and sharing. 0459 762 702. Western Plains Trefoil Guild: SECOND Friday of each month, 10.30am, Orana Gardens round house. Please confirm the meeting will be on. Dorothy 6884 6646.

SATURDAY

Beekeepers Inc – Orana: SECOND Saturday of the month, 9.15am, Narromine Tennis Club rooms, unless other arrangements are made. orana.secretary@beekeepers.asn.au

Bridge Club – Dubbo: 1pm-4.30pm, Bultje Street. Cost: $7 members, $9 nonmembers. Libby 0428 254 324.

Croquet: 8.15am, Muller Park Tennis and Croquet courts, Brisbane St, North Dubbo. New players of all ages are welcome. Tricia 0428 876 204, Margaret 0427 018 946.

CWA Gilgandra Market: FIRST Saturday of the month, 9am-1pm, cakes, fruit, pickles, plants and more! New stall holders are welcome. $5 per table, proceeds to CWA. Hilda 0427 471 270.

Dubbo Anglican Church Vigil Communion Service: 6pm, 158 Brisbane Street. Contact 6884 4990.

Dubbo Bridge Club: 1pm, Bultje Street (Tennis Courts), Dubbo. $7 members, $9 nonmembers. Libby 0428 254 324.

Dubbo Slot Car Racing Club: FIRST and THIRD Saturday of the month, 4pm, Seniors (15+), old Scouts Building, 189-191 Talbragar Street, across from Aldi. Terry 0408 260 965. Family History Society (Dubbo & District): 10am-1pm, volunteers on site during these hours, Western Plains Cultural Centre Community Arts Centre, Cnr Wingewarra and Gipps Sts. Ladies Luncheon: Saturday, October 4, from 12pm at Westside Hotel, Newell Highway, West Dubbo. Bev 6884 2401. Orana Writers’ Hub: 1st Saturday of the month, 10am-1pm. Music Room, WPCC. Patchwork and Quilters Group: 9am, SECOND and LAST Saturday of the month, Dubbo Pipe Band Hall, Cnr Darling and Wingewarra Sts. Charlene 0408 825 180. Parkrun – Dubbo: 8am every week, FREE timed (with barcode), 5km run, jog or walk, starts at Sandy Beach, dogs, prams are welcome. Email dubbohelpers@parkrun.com to help!

RSL Tennis Club: 12.30pm, Paramount Tennis Club courts for enjoyable social tennis. All welcome 0437 824 743.

Seventh-day Adventist Church Bible Study: 9.30am, Sabbath School and children’s/youth Sabbath School, 11am, Divine Service. Cnr Cobra and Sterling Sts. dubbo.adventist.org.au

Talbragar CWA: First Saturday of the month. 45L Boothenba Road, Dubbo commencing at 2pm. Will be 90 this year! October meeting will be a regular meeting and AGM. More information - Ronda 0419 275 223.

Transition Dubbo Food + Film Night: For information about future events. Peter 0439 091 767.

Wellington Diecast Model Car Collectors Club: First Saturday of the month from 2pm at 25 Clive St, Wellington. Enquiries: Michael Gallop, 0435 745 464.

SUNDAY

Australian Kite Flyers Society: SECOND Sunday of the month, 10am, Jubilee Oval. See how to build and fly modern (and old) kites. David 0476 223 342.

Bicycle User Group Social Ride: 9am, at Wahroonga Park. Mick 0437 136 169, Sam 0429 826 076, dubbobug.org.au

Dubbo Acoustic Musicjam (DAMjam): SECOND Sunday of the month, 2pm-5pm, Milestone Hotel, upstairs. Join acoustic sessions or just listen. Peter 0457 787 143.

Dubbo Anglican Church Traditional Communion Service: 8am, 158 Brisbane Street. 6884 4990.

Dubbo Anglican Church: 10am, Trinity Kids Sunday School and family Communion service.

Dubbo Baptist Church: 9.30am. 6pm only during school terms. 251 Cobra Street (next to Spotlight). Come along and discover if church is still relevant in today’s world. Everyone is welcome. 6884 2320.

Dubbo Pistol Club: 12.30pm, 143L Old Dubbo Road, 6882 0007.

Orana K9 Training Club INC: New intake every 7th Sunday, daylight savings start 8.45am, Eastern Standard time 9.45am.

Orana K9 Training now training at Pioneer Oval, Howard Ave, West Dubbo. Reg 0428 849 877, Dianne 0429 847 380.

Orana Pistol Club: 9am, Hyandra Lane, Dubbo. Sundays only, 6887 3704.

The Write In: An opportunity for writers to sit in writerly companionship, writing. 3rd Sunday of the month. Dubbo library meeting room from 11.30.

Traditional Catholic Latin Mass –Rawsonville: SECOND Sunday of the month, 9am, Rawsonville Soldier’s Memorial Hall, Rawsonville Road. 0429 920 842. Transcendental Meditation (TM): Free introductory talks via www.tm.org.au. Maharishi Foundation Australia, scientifically proven benefits of TM. David 0424 252 834.

MONDAY

Amnesty International Dubbo: SECOND Monday of the month, 5.30pm6.30pm, St Brigid’s meeting room. Sandra Lindeman amnesty.dubbo@gmail.com or 0419 167 574. Anglican Women’s Association: 5.30pm, at Holy Trinity. Dorothy 6884 4990. Australian Air Force Cadets 313 “City of Dubbo” Squadron: 6pm9.30pm, Army Barracks (Cnr Kokoda Pl and Wingewarra St). NOW recruiting, 13 to 18 years, rewarding activities.

Dubbo Bridge Club: FOURTH Monday of the month, 10am-1pm, Bultje Street. $7 members, $9 non-members. Libby 0428 254 324. Dubbo City Physical Culture Club: 4.30pm start, Wesley Community Hall, 66 Church St. Fun, a ordable dance for girls/ladies, 4yrs and up, all fitness levels. dubbocityphysie@live.com.au

Dubbo Filmmakers: Expressions of Interest. Short features movies and documentaries, shot on smart phones. Contact Sue 0455 255 137 after midday to find out more.

Dubbo Multicultural Women’s Group: THIRD Monday of the month, 10am, St Brigid’s Meeting Room in Brisbane Street. Women of all backgrounds are invited. 1800 319 551.

RFDS Dubbo Support Group monthly meetings: FIRST Monday of the month, RFDS Visitor Experience, 5pm, 21 Judy Jakins Drive, Dubbo Airport. Jeanette Hamilton 0429 673 366.

Rotary Club of Dubbo: 6pm-8pm, Westside Hotel, Whylandra Street, West Dubbo. Lyn Wicks, 0428 342 374, Carla Pittman 0418 294 438 or dubborotaryclub@

hotmail.com.

Sing Australia Dubbo Choir: 6pm8pm, Bridge Club, Bultje Street. NO auditions, no requirements to read music and no singing experience necessary. Contact Michele Peak 0428 680 775.

Tai Chi 10 Form: 2.30pm-3.30pm during school terms at U3A, Community Arts Centre, WPCC, 76 Wingewarra St. Laney 6882 4680 or laneyluk@gmail.com.

TUESDAY

Aboriginal Elders Walkabout Ministry Group: 9.30am-2pm in Holy Trinity Church Hall, 158 Brisbane Street. Dementia Sing Out Choir: Weekly 11am-12.30pm, Generosity Church, 51 Sheraton Road, Dubbo. Anne Gemmell 0481 396 404.

Depression Recovery Group: 10.30am, at the Catholic Parish Meeting Room, Brisbane St. Norm 6882 6081 or Sandra 0432 647 877

Dubbo Camera Club: Meet 1st Tuesday of the Month at Club Dubbo at 7pm. Everyone is welcome to join. See FB page for more details.

Dubbo City Physical Culture Club: 5pm start, Holy Trinity Hall, Brisbane Street, Dubbo. Fun, a ordable dance for girls/ladies, 4yrs and up, all fitness levels. dubbocityphysie@live.com.au

Dubbo Chess Club: 7pm-9pm, at Dubbo RSL. Juniors welcome. Trevor 0424 225 323 and Babu 0422 877 165.

Dubbo City Ladies Probus Club: Meet on the second Tuesday of each month in the Masonic Village Hall, Darby Close at 10am. Marie Francis 0408 845 640.

Dubbo Lions Club Inc: FIRST and THIRD Tuesday of the month, 6.30pm, Club Dubbo. PO Box 285 Dubbo, Lois on 0428 288 325 or dubbolionsinc@gmail.com.

Dubbo Men’s Probus: FIRST Tuesday of every month, 11am, Masonic Hall. Bob Ellis 0428 217 752.

Dubbo Prostate Support Group: For information about future meetings, Elizabeth 0408 682 968.

Dubbo RSL Euchre Club: 7pm, for 7.30pm, Dubbo RSL, Glen 0419 179 985 or Doreen 6882 6163.

Family History Society (Dubbo & District): 1pm-4pm, Cnr Wingewarra & Gipps Sts, Western Plains Cultural Centre, Community Arts Centre. Girls Brigade: During school term, 6pm8pm, Orana Baptist Church, 4 Palmer St. For all school aged girls. Enjoy crafts, games, camps, stories, songs, cooking and much more. Julie 0428 821 829. Orana Physical Culture: 4pm onwards, starts with 2-4 years Sparkles class, Auditorium at St Mary’s Primary School. See the Orana Physical Culture Facebook page. Rotary Club of Dubbo Macquarie: 12.30pm-2pm, Westside Hotel. Peter McInnes 0417 140 149.

Rotary Club of Dubbo South: 6pm, at South Dubbo Tavern.

Smart Recovery (Behaviour Change

Support Group): 5pm, online or in person. Rob 0417 497 187. South Dubbo Veteran’s & Community Men’s Shed: 9am12pm, Cnr of High and Palmer Streets. New members welcome. Reach Out & Discussion Group for people with Eating Disorders: Expressions of Interest, Tuesdays. Venue TBA. 0455 255 137 after midday to express interest.

Toastmasters Club: FIRST and THIRD Tuesday of the month, 7pm9pm, Dubbo RSL Club, Brisbane St. Sharon Allan 0408 156 015 or email sallan@rhdubbo.com.au

Women’s Wellbeing Walking Group: 10am Tuesdays fortnightly meeting at Victoria Park BBQ area. Women of all ages welcome. Kathryn at Connecting Community Services 1800 319 551.

WEDNESDAY

Ballroom Dancing: Wednesday 7.30-9.30pm $10. Wesley Hall Cnr of Carrington Avenue & Church Street, Dubbo. Graham Woods 0447 885 603. Blood Cancer Support Group: FIRST Wednesday of month, 10.30am-12pm, Venue changes each month. Louise or Emma 0412 706 785. Breast Cancer Support Group: FOURTH Wednesday of every month, 10am, Baptist Church, Palmer Street, Community Health 5853 2545. Bric-a-brac sale, weekly – South Dubbo Veterans and Community Men’s Shed: 10am-12pm, Corner of Palmer and High Streets. Barry on 0439 344 349.

Cake Cupper & Cancer Support Group: SECOND Wednesday of month, 2.30-4pm, Western Cancer Centre Dubbo, carer is also welcome. For patients having current cancer treatment. Megs or Fi 6809 6200. Catholic Healthcare – Mind + Move: Wednesdays – Gym Ball Drumming 12-1pm. Art 1.30-2.30pm. Kelly 0478 282 588. Co ee, Craft & Chat: FORTNIGHTLY, 10am-12pm, Gospel Chapel on Boundary Road. Anne 0428 425 958.

CWA Dubbo Evening Branch: THIRD Wednesday of the month, 6pm, 3 Frith Street. Barb on 0409 159 556.

CWA Narromine: SECOND Wednesday of the month, 5.30pm, USMC. Carolyn 0427 747 478.

CWA Terramungamine: SECOND Wednesday of the month, 10am, Dubbo RSL Club. Barb 0427 251 121.

CWA Wellington Branch: SECOND Wednesday of Month, 10.30am, Wellington CWA Rooms, Warne St, Wellington. Marion on 0429 033 836. Dementia Friendship Group: SECOND Wednesday of month, 10.30am, Western Plains Cultural Centre, Creo Cafe, Wingewarra St. Anne Gemmell 0481 396 404.

Dubbo Anglican Church Trinity Kids Playgroup: 10am-12pm, Anglican Church Hall, 158 Brisbane St., during School terms. Contact 6884 4990.

Dubbo Bobbin Lacemakers: THIRD Wednesday of the month, 10am-3pm, Arts & Crafts Society Cottage and Craft Shop, 137 Cobra Street. Judy 0416 818 931.

Dubbo Bridge Club: 9.45am, for 10am-1pm, Bultje Street (Tennis Courts), Dubbo. $7 members, $9 non-members. Libby 0428 254 324. Dubbo Community Garden: 9am-12pm, 4 Palmer Street. A time to garden with others, learn more skills and grow friendships. Denise 0433 623 842 or Julie 0428 821 829.

Dubbo Electric Vehicle Interest, Owners, Users & Supporters (DEVIOUS) group: FIRST Wednesday of each month, 12.30pm-1.30pm, Western Plains Cultural Centre café. Chris 0409 321 470. Dubbo Garden Club: 10am, FIRST Wednesday of month, Garden gatherings with morning tea. Contact President Annette Storer 0429 828 882. Dundullimal Dubbo Support Crew Inc: FOURTH Wednesday of month, 10am, Dundullimal Homestead. Support Homestead functions. 6884 9984, dundullimal@nationaltrust.com.au Gamblers Anonymous: 6pm, Baptist Church, Dubbo. Victor 0407 799 139. Geurie Craft Group: 9am-2pm, Geurie Bowling Club. Everyone is welcome. Colene 0400 422 335. Lodge Allan Stuart 416: SECOND Wednesday of month, Geurie Masonic Centre. Please email secretary@lodgeallanstuart416.org.au Social Tennis: Friendly Wednesday ladies morning group, inviting you to join us. Come along 9am at Macquarie Club Dubbo. Survivors Of Suicide Bereavement Group: Wednesdays, by expressions of interest. Please contact 0455 255 137 after midday. Walter T. Grant Seniors Social Club: 9am-2pm, Scout’s Hall, Welchman Street. $10 per day. BYO lunch. Pre-lunch cards and games, post-lunch bingo. Jan Miller 0418 255 217. West Dubbo Rotary: 6pm, Club Dubbo, Whylandra Street, West Dubbo. Zumba Kids: 4.15pm, West Dubbo Primary Community Centre. A FUN dynamic class that keeps young bodies active, for kids aged 5 to 12. Gold coin donation per family.

Dozens recognised at 2025 Orana Volunteer of the Year Awards

DOZENS of volunteers in the wider Orana Region were recognised at the 2025 Orana Volunteer of the Year Awards in Dubbo late last month.

Held as part of the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards hosted by The Centre for Volunteering, the awards are now in their 19th year and celebrate the work of thousands of individuals and volunteer teams from a diverse range of organisations across NSW.

Nominees across all categories received certificates at the event at the Dubbo RSL Club on September 30, with the winners of each category receiving a framed award.

Adult Volunteer

NEPALESE community leader from Dubbo, Ramesh Sharma, was announced as the 2025 Orana Volunteer of the Year, for his work building social cohesion and strong community connections with the Orana Residents of Indian Sub Continental Heritage (ORISCON) organisation. He also serves as a vital link between the Nepalese diaspora and the broader community, and promoting and preserving

Nepalese language and heritage.

Young Volunteer

COBAR High School student and crosscountry runner Pearl Blackburn is the Orana Young Volunteer of the Year. Ms Blackburn gives her time at the student council, supporting student health and wellbeing programs, Little Athletics and Show Girl Committees, and many other programs and events.

Senior Volunteer

DUBBO grief counsellor, early responder for people experiencing loss and president of the Orana branch of the National Association for Loss and Grief (NALAG) NSW, Kerry Frost is the Orana Senior Volunteer of the Year. Ms Frost provides unwavering support to people at times of crisis and is in addition to her role on the NALAG NSW board.

Emergency Volunteer

AMBULANCE NSW Community First Responder Christopher Milne from North Yeoval is the inaugural Orana Emergency Volunteer of the Year. Mr Milne pro-

vides lifesaving acute care, back up care, and support to people in and around Yeoval.

Volunteer Team

THE National Association for Loss and Grief (NALAG) volunteer team helps people dealing with the trauma of an unexpected loss and are the Orana Volunteer Team of the Year. They have helped more than 200 people in the past 12 months, giving around 2000 hours of assistance to make sure people feel heard and supported.

MR Sharma and Ms Blackburn were not present at the event to receive their awards in person.

The NSW Minister with responsibility for Volunteering, Jodie Harrison, congratulated the award nominees and recipients.

“You’ve been recognised as heroes by the people in your communities who know you best. Thank you for your ongoing contributions, which make NSW the best state to live and work in,” she concluded.

Dignitaries present included Cr Josh Black (mayor of Dubbo Regional Council), Jamie Cha ey MP, Dugald Saunders MP, and Cr Stacey Bohm (deputy mayor, Narromine Shire Council).

2025 Emergency Volunteer of the Year, Christopher Milne from North Yeoval with Dubbo MP Dugald Saunders.

2025 Volunteer Team of the Year, NALAG, with Federal Member for Parkes, Jamie Cha ey.

2025 Senior Volunteer of the Year, Kerry Frost from Dubbo-based NALAG, with Dubbo Mayor, Cr Josh Black.

2025 Orana Volunteer of the Year, Ramesh Sharma. PHOTO: ORISCON

Borroloola Strikers Set to Shine at First Nations Football Festival

By SHARON BONTHUYS

THE Borroloola Strikers, a women’s soccer team from a remote community on the western coast of the Gulf of Carpentaria in the Northern Territory (NT), will make history as they compete at the First Nations Football Festival in Dubbo this week.

The first team to hail from the remote Borroloola community in many years is preparing to compete at the event, which runs from October 16-18.

The team of talented young women, aged between 14 and 30 – with most under 18 – represents a new chapter for women’s soccer in Borroloola. Many of the players have only recently come together as a team, but their energy, determination, and community spirit have already made them a source of pride for their remote town.

Earlier this year, the Strikers played a friendly match in Darwin against Mindil FC, impressing onlookers with their skills and teamwork, walking away with a win for their efforts.

Since then, the girls have been training every Wednesday at the McArthur River Mine, where they’ve been able to strengthen their abilities and build team spirit.

For many of the Strikers, this is their first time joining a registered competition.

Despite challenges such as limited access to facilities, equipment, and suitable playing fields in their remote hometown, the team has remained committed. With the support of Gulf Youth and Community Service (GYCS), Football NT, the Borroloola community and generous sponsors, they

have been able to prepare for the First Nations Football Festival, including organising jerseys, sourcing second-hand boots and shin pads, and fundraising through car washes and raffles.

The trip to Dubbo will be about more than soccer, team management says. It offers a chance for the Strikers to represent Borroloola with pride, meet other Indigenous players, and see the wider opportunities that sport and education can offer.

The young women will also vis-

it Endeavour Sports High School in Sydney, home to the Sydney FC soccer program, to experience training at an elite level.

“This tour is not just about playing games,” said Steve McAllan, General Manager, GYCS.

“It’s about building friendships, discovering strengths, and showing these young women that they can be proud of who they are and where they come from, while also seeing what’s possible beyond home.

“We hope this tour shows what’s

possible when community comes together to support young people,” Mr McAllan concluded.

CROQUET IN SCHOOLS AIMING TO ENGAGE OUR YOUNG HOOPSTERS

By “SOUTH STAKE”

TRUE, the large majority of croquet players are – how can one put this delicately? – “generously-birthdayed”.

While younger players are certainly not precluded, and there are some big names and high-achievers in Australia with quite a few holding their own internationally, this is not a universal feature of the sport.

While croquet does not have the reach into the younger demographic that say, lawn bowls does, the sport is not without some clout.

This is especially so in New Zealand where “golf croquet” is promoted in secondary schools for students from Years 9–13. Local and regional competitions are held during the school year, and the national championship is conducted in September.

Seven schools qualified for

last year’s competition with the final match beginning in glorious weather and ending in heavy rain for the last half hour.

Gus Buhler and Morghan Meldrum from the Francis Douglas Memorial College won 7-3 against siblings Max and Emma Philpott from Māruawai College.

New Zealand is considered to be the world leader in promoting croquet as a sport for younger players; although the Australian Croquet Association and the state affiliates now have youth croquet in their sights. Meanwhile, individual clubs and schools across Australia have been working separately to the same worthy aim.

The Sout Australian association, for instance, has materials and advisors available to promote “Aussie Croquet” in schools. Victoria has a similar approach, and the GVCA Interschool Croquet Challenge is held each

November.

Closer to home, the Dubbo Croquet Club has run croquet for a local high school as a weekly sport offering for a term. Interest was high and the experience was rated as highly-successful and enjoyable by students, staff, and club members.

In 2024 the local Club developed a sub-unit on croquet to meet the Physical and Sports Studies curriculum for Years 9 and 10. A presentation was made to both year groups at their school, and follow-up materials for in-class use were prepared. Later in the term, all students had on-court experience to complete that component of their course.

With a team of accredited coaches, and several teachers as club members, Dubbo Croquet Club is ready and excited to be involved with local schools, and respond to enquiries.

The First Nations Football Festival will take place at Apex Oval from October 16-18, with finals taking place on Saturday, October 18.

The Borroloola Strikers from the remote Gulf of Carpentaria community in the Northern Territory are all smiles as they head to Dubbo this week for the First Nations Football Festival. PHOTOS: PEMA TAMANG PAKHRIN.

The Borroloola Strikers are looking forward to their trip to Dubbo for the First Nations Football Festival this week.

REVVING UP FOR DUBBO CITY SPEEDWAY CLUB’S “BIGGEST SEASON EVER”

By DAVID DIXON

FEW sports can match the noise, thrills, and energy of speedway racing, with Dubbo’s upcoming season promising to be a record-breaker.

Highlights include hosting the NSW Sprintcar titles – one of the most prestigious events in the sport – and a range of other top-shelf meetings running through to May next year.

Racing out of Dubbo City Speedway Club’s Morris Park Motor Complex, their “biggest season ever” officially kicks off on a high note on Saturday, October 25, with a Sprintcar Championship Round, Club Secretary Tash O’Donnell explained.

“We started off with three state titles and three different divisions, and started putting the season together as a collaborative effort,” Tash recently told ‘Dubbo Photo News’.

“The club is very much a labour of love and everyone is a volunteer… so I’m also the lapscorer for Dubbo!” she added.

Other highlights for 2025-26 include a “wingless” Sprintcar 50-lap race, that will fully test driver skills and stamina; the AMCA Nationals NSW title, the NSW Lightning Sprint title, and the SSA Super Sedan NSW title.

“It’s shaping up to be the biggest season ever our club has hosted,” Tash enthused. “For the first time, Dubbo will be home to four NSW state titles, alongside some huge race nights that are sure to draw attention right across the state.”

Other race events this season comprise RSA Junior races, “demolition derbies”, “fast fours”, “street stockers”, “super sedans”, RSA Juniors, and Lightning Sprints.

The latest from the Dubbo Duck Pond

“We usually have about seven or eight meets a season, and a double-header over Easter, with roughly about 500 fans at a meet, and that’s not including drivers, support teams, and officials,” Tash revealed.

“Each meet normally has about five or six divisions, comprising three or four heats and a run-off, so there’s plenty of action on the track.”

Tash comes from a family of racers and says, as a sport, it’s hard not to love once you’ve got the dust in your blood for the first time.

“I started watching as a little kid, and actually raced when I was 16 in the ‘Fender Benders’ category. I shared the car with my dad, Errol Lynch, that’s how I got started,” Tash recalled.

The full calendar of racing is not just good news for the local club, but also for the Dubbo region, she argued.

“As secretary, I couldn’t be prouder of what this means –not just for our members and volunteers – but also for the wider Dubbo community.

“Events of this calibre bring drivers, teams, and fans from all over NSW, which is a big boost for our local economy through accommodation, dining, and tourism.”

Lacking the profile and publicity enjoyed by many other forms of racing in Australia, she believes that the sport has retained a genuine Australian egalitarianism and friendliness that can’t be beat.

“I remember going as a kid, and I loved the noise and the atmosphere, it is a real family event,” Tash believes. “You can watch the racing, and then go get an ice-cream or a steak sandwich... what could be better?”

By EIDER DOWN

THE Dubbo Ducks jumped out of bed as if it was the last day on earth on Sunday, October 12, in order to be on time and ready to race at 9 am in the Dubbo RSL heated indoor pool.

The competitors were presented with a four-event card and first up was the 25m Freestyle. Mr Brian Schoeffel finished first, youngster Lydia Barling second, Peter Hargreaves third, Katharine O’Rourke fourth, and Amy Barling rounding out the top five.

Next the Brace Relay, a 2x25m Backstroke/Freestyle combination. No breakers today, Katharine O’Rourke with Ron Everett taking first, Nicole Johnstone with Brian Schoeffel second, Peter Hargreaves with Henry Wilcockson third, Neil Harris with Mal Ca-

vanagh fourth, Amy Barling with Alan Quin making the top five.

A bit of distance in the schedule this morning with a 100m freestyle. No final for this event, just closest to your previous handicap time. Amy Barling came in first, Neil Harris second, Peter Allen third, Lydia Barling fourth and Mal Cavanagh closing in with fifth.

The ‘at Go’ event for the day was a 25m Butterfly. Nicole Johnston was closest to the mark (0.70), Brian Schoeffel (0.87) in second, Warren Williams (1.81) third, Katharine O’Rourke (1.87) fourth and Mal Cavanagh (2.43) in fifth.

Time to get your teams organised for the Clive Roots Memorial Relay being held on the evenng of Thursday, November 13, in the Dubbo RSL indoor pool with barbecue to follow. You will need a four-person team for the relay but

if you’re a few hands short don’t worry because the Ducks can help you fill out your team. Take note for individuals, there are sprint events too. Come one, come four, it’s time to make a stand and raise some much-needed funds for Legacy. Contact Henry at the club.

Judy Walsh and Henry Wilcockson got the lucky numbers and special thanks to chief marshall Jack Allen, and timekeepers extraordinaire Greg Salmon and Judy Walsh.

Next week the Ducks will compete in the Don Attenborough Memorial Race.

Everyone is always welcome at the Dubbo RSL indoor pool every Sunday morning. Why not put your togs on and come along and have some fun?

That’s this week’s tidings from the Duck Pond.

Dubbo Ducks Brian Schloeffel, Josh Bird, and Jack Allen

Peter Allen and Henry Wilcockson

Lydia Barling performed well last weekend. PHOTOS: DUBBO DUCKS

Few sports can match the noise, thrills, and energy of speedway racing. PHOTO: LOCAL COUNCILS.

Sizzling soccer action

By DAVID DIXON

Love of the beautiful game, football – “soccer” as it is colloquially known by most Australians – goes all-year round, with a recent local festival showing how deep this passion runs.

The Dubbo Sixes football tournament returned to Apex Oval in early October with a “spectacular” four days of six-a-side action drawing players and supporters from across the region and the state, Dubbo Macquarie United Football Club Vice-President, Jamie Lobb revealed.

“For the first time, the event launched with a junior competition on Thursday and Friday, October 2–3, featuring boys’ and girls’ divisions in Under 12, Under 14, and Under 16 age groups,” Jamie said.

“The senior competition followed on Saturday and Sunday, October 4–5, showcasing fast-paced matches across Women’s Open, Men’s Open, Women’s Over 30s, and Men’s Over 35s divisions,” he added.

This year’s tournament involved more than 70 teams and 670 registered players with 4000-plus spectators passing through the gates over the four days.

“The inaugural junior competition was hailed as a resounding success, giving young players aged from 10–16 years, the chance to shine on Dubbos pinnacle venue in Apex Oval,” Jamie enthused.

“Plans for next year’s event will be announced soon, aiming to build on this year’s momentum and welcome even more teams to one of the region’s most popular football events,” he concluded.

Participants who attended a mental health workshop on Friday, October 3.

The Lawn Pro Limettes also participated in the event.

One of the participating teams - Switts.

Dubbo Photo News caught some of the action from the Soccer Sixes recently. Did you go?

PHOTOS: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS / KEN SMITH

Marg and Bev bag Women’s Major Pairs Championship

By WEST DUBBO BOWLS

Club Championships

MARG Rich and Bev Goss are this year’s Women’s Major Pairs Champions, following a commanding 20–9 victory over Kelly Dart and Tracey Silk last Sunday afternoon. This marks their third title together at the cluban incredible achievement!

In earlier semi-finals, Marg and Bev defeated Anne Findlay and Helen Davis, and Kelly and Tracey downed Jess Gibson and Claire Brown in a nail-biter.

The Men’s Club Singles Championships also began last weekend, with results as follows:

Round One: M Low def S Evans; C Biles def N Goodridge; J Stephenson def A Brown; C Dart def T Speirs; N Collis def J Zeb; D Stanley def A Taylor; T Brown def J Silk; T Wilkinson def N Riley; C Rodis def L Gilholme; D Morris def L Peirce; W Towney def J Fardell; G Dart def L Morrow; R See def P Kirwan; G Gudmunson def M Smith; L Burden def H Barrow; and J Palmer def S Ryan.

Round Two: C Biles def M Low; J Stephenson def C Dart; D Stanley def N Collis; T Wilkinson def T Brown; D Morris def C Rodis; W Towney def G Dart; G Gudmunson defeated R See; L Burden defeated J Palmer.

The quarter and semi-finals of the Singles’ Championship will be played on Saturday, October 25, or beforehand by mutual agreement.

The final of the Men’s Pairs Championship between Daniel Stanley and Jake Ashley, and Brian Fernando and Glenn Morrison, will be played this Sunday afternoon.

The Women’s Club Singles Championship is also on this weekend.

Round One, Saturday afternoon: C Brown versus R Gilholme; H Davis versus L Erwin; T Silk versus M Ney.

Round Two, Sunday morning: H Sharpe versus M Wilson; J Gibson versus A Findlay;

M Rich versus P Dawson; A Beecroft versus G Morrison.

Round Two, Sunday afternoon: Winner (Brown/Gilholme) versus Winner (Davis/ Erwin); Winner (Silk/Ney) versus K Dart; B Goss versus D Wilson; H Bryan versus B Margery.

Nominations for the Mixed Pairs and Fours Championships are still open.

Mid-West Region

THE Mid-West Pairs Championship finals will be held at Club Dubbo this weekend. West Dubbo is represented by Marg Rich and Bev Goss in the Women’s Seniors, and in the Men’s Seniors, by Lloyd Peirce and Greg Collin, and Max Low and Bill Van Der Mey.

Social Bowls

HELA Bryan, Pam Dawson and Leanne Erwin won last Wednesday’s social bowls from Tony Leonard, John Zeb, and Graham Ross with Gai Morrison and Marg Rich third. On Friday, Dorian Abel and Marg Rich were victorious over Frank Bartlett and Alan Andriske.

Last Sunday, prizes were won by Carmen Hartley, Aileen Beecroft, Hayley Sharpe, James Abel, June Usher, Hayley Sharpe, and Mary Ney.

There will be no social bowls this Sunday morning due to the competitions mentioned above and the “Barefoot Business Bash” competition also continues on Wednesday evenings.

Club News

THE upcoming 2025 Bowls NSW Awards night on October 22 features West Dubbo nominees Cooper Dart (Junior Bowler of the Year) and Anthony Brown (Administrator of the Year), who will be supported by a strong cheer squad on the night!

Thought for the Week – “The prosperity of a country, is in accordance with its treatment of the aged.” (Hasidic proverb)

ANOTHER GOOD SHOWING FOR RSL COMBINATION BOWLS

THERE was another good attendance for the RSL combination bowls Sunday morning event, with 36 bowlers competing for the prizes and the winning team of Chris Chrisante, Sue Armstrong, and Phil Knight with a 26-3 victory over Ron McCauley, Chris Castlehouse, and Gaye Cottee. Second place was taken out by the team of Glennis Hanigan, Greg Brown, and Peter Sinclair defeating Leo Balstad, Ross Pharo, and Alan Stratford by 19-14. Third place went to the evergreen Mary Perry, Peter Bennison, and Frank Armstrong by 16-13 as Julie Brown, Ray Strahan, and Gordon Scott defeated Di Hilderbrant, Eric Satchell,

and Bryan O’Sullivan by 15-11. John Kennedy, Helen Emblem, and Mel Giddings also defeated Sue McCauley, Vicki Hummell, and Col Cottee by 12-9 as Gavin Cullen, Jenny Spratt, and Steve Kelly had a draw (14-14) with Dick Whitford, Shirley Marchant, and Chris Straojny.

There was only one rester on the day and that was Gordon Scott. Lucky numbers won by Col Cottee, Chris Castlehouse, and Helen Emblem.

If you are interested or know of anyone that would like to join our mixed Sunday morning game, with free bowls coaching available, contact the club for more details.

Above: Bev Goss and Marg Rich; this year’s Women’s Major Pairs Champions at West Dubbo.

Left: Women’s Major Pairs Finalists at West Dubbo. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED