IT’S that time of year again, as School spirits soar at Dubbo College, with the Astley Cup kicking-off this week. This year though, is extra special, as it’s the centenary of the tri-school for-
mat of the inter-school competition with Dubbo battling Bathurst this Thursday and Friday, before facing Orange on July 2-3. With last year’s thrilling win still fresh in everyone’s minds, excitement has been steadily building across the campus as Dubbo gears-up to defend their 2025 title. Adding an extra spark to the recent as-
sembly, the school’s cheer-leading squad wowed the crowd with a high-energy performance, offering a sneak-peek of the halftime entertainment planned for the rugby league match on Friday.
Country Mayors welcome critical first step in addressing the youth crime crisis
By SOPHIA MCCAUGHAN
THE NSW Country Mayors Association (CMA) has welcomed the release of the Legislative Assembly Committee on Law and Safety’s Interim Report on Community Safety in Regional and Rural Communities addressing the drivers of youth crime through early intervention.
The Report is the first of two reports the Committee intends to publish with the second focusing on policing and legislative reform.
Youth crime has been a plight for regional and rural communities, especially in Western NSW with 21,287 young offenders reported between April last year and March this year, according to the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOSCAR).
The Committee received almost 200 submissions and says there is an urgent need for early intervention to deal with complex social drivers of youth crime in regional and rural NSW.
Chairman of the CMA Mayor Rick Firman said the Board and its members are very concerned about the rising level of youth crime in remote, rural and regional areas.
“The Committee’s report makes 11 findings, most of which echo the concerns that our members
have about the underlying issues that must be addressed if the problems are to be solved,” he explained.
“The Committee has made 19 recommendations to address
those findings, many of which require better and more coordinated, long-term investment in services and infrastructure that better support young people who live in country NSW.”
The Committee has recommended that the state government prioritise sustained investment in targeted, place-based early intervention programs, increase investment in youth hubs
MEET THE TEAM
to divert young people from crime, and that the Department of Education collaborate with schools in disadvantaged communities to identify and implement programs that support the school community.
Committee Chair and Member for Mount Druitt, Edmond Atalla, said a holistic and evidence based approach to addressing underlying factors of youth crime is the way to move forward.
“Tough-on-crime responses might seem appealing, but they don’t deliver long-term change,” he said.
“We need to invest in what works and that means supporting vulnerable young people early, before they come into contact with the justice system.”
However, Member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders said the NSW government is not doing enough to address the youth crime crisis.
“All we’ve seen in the past two years is young ringleaders wreaking havoc on our communities, breaking into people’s homes, stealing cars, hurting loved ones and costing lives,” Mr Saunders explained.
There has been a 2 per cent increase in the number of youth offenders in the last 10 years to March 2025, according to BOSCAR.
Sports-focused Wilson joins team at Carter Chiropractic
Wilson Lei understands the emotional pain for athletes when they miss out on major life events, so he is a chiropractor you can trust to get you back out on the sports field as fast and safely as possible.
The 28-year-old from Taoyuan, Taiwan, has just joined the team at Carter Chiropractic and Dubbo Acupuncture, and just one month into the role, is settling in nicely.
Dr Lei joins Dr Adam Carter (principal chiropractor), Dr Raisa Kolesnikova (acupuncturist) and Dr Madison Ryan (chiropractor) on the expert holistic wellness team at the Dubbo practice.
Dr Lei commenced tertiary studies in Taiwan (Bachelor of Medical Science) before completing his studies at Macquarie University, Sydney (Masters of Chiropractic).
He attended the National Chung Cheng University at Chiayi, Taiwan, and was a part of the university’s basketball and cheerleading teams.
While studying at university in Taiwan, Wilson developed his passion for chiropractic services.
“I have seen a lot of my teammates practice hard for two or three years to get a chance to perform on stage in cheerleading or compete on the basketball court,” he said.
“But some of them had to give up because of sports injuries.”
“My roommate at university was the captain of the basketball team. He was going to attend a competition but developed tendonitis and couldn’t play.”
“It made me think, I’d like to be a practitioner who can help athletes.
“It made me want to be a chiropractor, to help them.”
Having played sport at a high level, Dr Lei believes he will be of great benefit to Dubbo’s sporting community.
“I can relate to people who suffer from sports injuries. If you’re forced away from your loved sport,
it’s not good,” he said
“My personal goal is to become a great evidence-based chiropractor and to contribute to improving the public image of our profession. Chiropractic is an incredibly valuable field - we are experts in manipulative therapy and bring a unique hands-on approach to musculoskeletal care.”
Dubbo wasn’t on Dr Lei’s radar at fi rst, he admits.
“But that changed after I had the opportunity to shadow my current employer at Carter Chiropractic and Dubbo Acupuncture, Dr. Adam. He’s exactly the kind of chiropractor I aspire to beskilled, grounded, and patient-focused. That experience inspired me, and it’s the reason I decided to take the leap and join the team here in Dubbo”.
Dr Lei also said he is fi nding the Dubbo pace of life relaxing after time in Sydney.
“The weather is nice and everyone is friendly to me,” he said. “I’m enjoying my time here and look forward to learning more about life in rural Australia.”
Carter Chiropractic and Dubbo Acupuncture can help clients experience optimal health with chiropractic care. Chiropractic is the third largest primary contact health provider profession in Australia.
Chiropractic care can be of assistance in the treatment and management of many musculoskeletal related conditions, such as low back and neck pain, headaches, sciatica, disc bulges, rib pain, jaw dysfunction and joint injuries of the arms and legs.
The business also offers Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine services and is conveniently located at 64 Bultje St, and is open 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 1pm on Saturdays.
You can book online for consultations or call (02) 6884 1655 (chiropractic) or (02) 6884 0833 (acupuncture). Please also see the business QR code to scan for further information about Carter Chiropractic and Dubbo Acupuncture.
Meet the team at Carter Chiropractic: Adam Carter, Raisa Kolesnikova, Wilson Lei and Madison Ryan. Photo: Dubbo Photo News/Ken Smith.
Dr Wilson Lei has joined the team at Carter Chiropractic and Dubbo Acupuncture. Scan here to book your appointment
NSW Crime Statistics reveal there were 21,287 young offenders reported in Western NSW between April last year and March this year. PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/FILE
When did you start your business? I started my business when I was 16, so I’ve been running it for five years now!
Who/what was your inspiration growing up? Definitely my parents. They both have very hectic jobs and have an amazing work ethic.
What would you tell your teenage self? Stop stressing, every setback is just redirection. What feels like failure now, will shape you later. And do biology in high school!
What’s your favourite thing to cook? Right now, it’s a tie between home-made meatballs and quick, loaded wraps.
What do you love about our region? It’s the sense of community. Where do you love to visit? Sydney.
What’s your favourite treatment you have on offer? Definitely IPL or facials – I’m obsessed with anything skin-focused, especially skin goal journeys.
What do you for fun? When I’m not working or studying for uni, I’ll either be in Sydney visiting my friends, or at one of my siblings’ football games on the weekends!
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Running my business, working as a registered nurse at the hospital, and balancing it all with a little family of my own.
MEET THE EXPERTS
Grant and tender expertise on our doorstep
Asignificant barrier to applying for grants or tenders is “readiness”, in that many organisations are unprepared for the often-rigorous application process, according to a Dubbo-based agency helping businesses, not-for-profits (NFP) and social enterprises to build capacity in this area.
Many organisations wanting to apply for tender opportunities and grant funding are simply not ready, said Kellie Jennar, manager of the team at “Win the Grant or Tender”.
“We help businesses and NFPs get grant and tender-ready,” Kellie explained.
“We can help them from developing their plan, to writing the grant or tender,” she added.
“We create budgets, risk management plans, source letters of support, collate financial statements, develop program logic models, and help them apply for these opportunities.”
Many organisations baulk when attempting to navigate the tender and grant spaces, simply because their staff or volunteers, struggle to understand the at-times complex processes involved, Kellie said.
“They have to look at all and align to all of the requirements before they sit down and write the application,” Kellie added.
“Organisations will also have to prove the need and demand for their projects to the funders,” she said.
The experienced team is frequently contacted at the “last minute” before grants and tenders close, and they work quickly to help organisations meet fast-approaching application deadlines.
The real work for the organisation starts
once a grant or tender is won.
“Once you win a grant or tender, it doesn’t stop there,” Kellie said.
“Organisations will have contractual obligations to meet including compliance reports and acquittals,” she added, indicating some projects had milestones to meet before funding is dispensed.
While grants enable organisations to pitch for funding for locally-run projects dealing with particular issues, tenders are called for by funders who already have solutions in mind and seek out organisations that can carry out the associated tasks.
The skills and knowledge needed to navigate the tender and grant spaces can be learned, and the team at “Win the Grant or
Tender” are here to help organisations learn and succeed, founder Natalie Bramble told the Dubbo Photo News.
Part of a local Certified Social Enterprise called The NFP Guide, which the Dubbo Photo News will profile in the coming weeks, “Win the Grant or Tender” has established a solid track record assisting clients across the country to gain funding to deliver programs supporting the community.
A central west fencing contractor is among the team’s happy clients, landing a significant tender recently with their help. The team also helped a struggling non-profit get back on track with managing an $8.5 million project. They have also recently as-
sisted a Western Australian Council to secure funding for eight to 10 apprentices.
Natalie said there are many opportunities locally for businesses across the growing Central West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).
“Businesses need to get tender-ready. There are pre-qualification processes we can help them with, including preparing capability statements,” she explained.
The team includes staff locally in Dubbo, as well as regionally and interstate.
Training is an extensive part of their business operations, building skills, capacity and confidence in their clients to self-manage grants, tenders and the associated compliance and reporting. Where organisations may struggle with that, the team can also step in and assist or do it for them.
The team also does a significant amount of pro bono (free) work annually, living its mission to promote change through helping others progress their social change purposes and support their communities.
The local government sector has been particularly supportive, engaging the “Win the Grant or Tender” team to conduct training to build capacity in volunteer-managed NFPs and social enterprises in their regions.
“We really do love our work” Natalie said, encouraging organisations to get in touch and find out how they can work with the team to achieve their goals.
Contact: 02 6884 4654 or call Natalie on 0409 814 654 or email natalie@ winthegrantortender.com.au
New 3D toilet block wins gong at Local Government Awards
Council Update
By DAVID DIXON
IT’S not often you get a gong for a schmick new public toilet, but that’s exactly what happened to Dubbo Regional Council (DRC) recently.
DRC received a “highly commended” at the 2025 Local Government Excellence Awards in the “Innovative Leadership” section, for its hi-tech 3D printed “amenities block” at Lions Park West.
The first of its kind in Australia, the toilet set a national precedent for innovation in construction, sustainability and regional infrastructure development, Council’s CEO Murray Wood said.
“Our staff are committed to delivering essential services to our community, with a strong focus on how we can do our work more efficiently, effectively and safely,” Mr Wood said.
Partnering with Contour 3D, Council replaced the aging Lions Park West amenities facility using an on-site 3D printing process that reduced construction waste, improved thermal efficiency, and used 40 per cent recycled materials.
Council’s new Animal Shelter was also a finalist in the Asset and Infrastructure Category, while the
Public Private Partnership (PPP) with Squadron Energy to build an Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant (AWTP) was again a finalist in the Special Project Initiative for cities of between 50,000 and 150,000 people.
“The recognition we received for these projects shows the breadth of the work that we do for our regional community, from drought security and legacy in-
frastructure, innovative thinking and construction, to the development of a state-of-the art purposebuilt facility that enhances animal welfare, staff safety and operational efficiency,” Mr Wood said.
The PPP will see Council build the AWTP and supply Squadron Energy with recycled water for the purpose of concrete batching and dust suppression for the construction of their wind farms in
the Central West Renewable Energy Zone. The plant will utilise water effluent generated by the Dubbo Sewer Treatment Plant as feedstock, and reduce reliance on potable river water.
The Animal Shelter project was initiated to address critical infrastructure shortcomings, including outdated facilities, rising maintenance costs and non-compliance with evolving animal welfare
regulations.
The project was developed through close collaboration with operation staff, local contractors and industry experts ensuring an innovative cost effective and scalable, with many learnings through a partnership with Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Council said.
Have Your Say on our cemeteries
COUNCIL is inviting locals to help guide a masterplan development for the New Dubbo Cemetery and Wellington Lawn Cemetery.
Community feedback will be used in tandem with industry research and best-in-class cemetery case studies to formulate the plans, Council has said.
“Cemeteries mean a lot of different things to different people, and we’re genuinely interested to hear what people would like their cemeteries to look like in the coming years,” Director Community Culture and Places Craig Arms said.
“Our short survey will ask residents what’s important to them in a cemetery context, their preference for the layout of cemeteries, and how memorial spaces can be implemented,” he added.
Residents can have their say by visiting the project’s YourSay page on DRC’s website until 9am on Monday, June 30, or call in to Council’s offices.
in the world”
This once-in-a-generation upgrade to our electricity network is creating jobs, new apprenticeships, and opening doors for local businesses and manufacturing. For Kacee it means doing a job she loves close to home, “I would love to inspire Kacee, Operations Manager, Squadron Energy
Dubbo Council staff at the Local Government Excellence Awards: Development Contributions Administrator Bina Mahadeb, Infrastructure Director Luke Ryan, Environmental Compliance Manager Helen Eyre, Major Projects Property and Land Development Officer Gemma George, Construction Coordinator Stephen Parish, Building Assets Manager Ian Whipple, Strategy Water Supply and Sewerage Manager Chris Godfrey, Animal Shelters Operations Coordinator Kristy Forrest, and Planner Laura Wannan. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Three life memberships for Cumboogle Brigade at 85th anniversary celebrations
By DAVID DIXON
HIGHLIGHTING the great work of our local bushfire brigades over many decades, life memberships were recently awarded to long-serving members at the Cumboogle Rural Fire Brigade anniversary gala celebrations held last month.
Established in the shadows of Australia’s tragic Black Friday bushfires of January 1939, the Cumboogle Bush Fire Brigade –now known as the Cumboogle Rural Fire Brigade (CRFB) – recently reached 85 fine years of service to the community.
Locals marked the special occasion at Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s Savannah Room with about 80 members, relatives, and supporters from as far away as Brisbane and the NSW South Coast attending, CRFB President Kevin Parker revealed.
“Special guest for the night was Fay Pasco, a local resident who spoke on her experiences with damaging bushfires on her property,” Kevin said
“Dubbo Mayor, Josh Black and RFS Superintendents Danny Busch and Dave Millsteed were also there on the night the brigade awarded three new life memberships; to Phillip Baker, Christian Munge, and Steve Taylor,” he added.
The brigade held its first meeting on October 19, 1939, at the Nine-Mile Lane, Obley Road, with 14 interested people at the meeting and a further nine apologies from locals who offered their assistance and cooperation, Kevin said.
Records show a steady increase in members over the years with the brigade currently having 39 members, 26 of these being trained firefighters, he explained.
IS ALCOHOL COSTING
“As part of the night, the display of historical items was very well received, noticeably the advanced equipment the brigade now has,” Kevin said.
“The Brigade is always keen to acquire new members, both male and female. If interested contact us,” he concluded.
For more information, call Captain Mark Walkom on 0411 985 308 or President Kevin Parker on 0400 626 005.
STATE BUDGET INCLUDES $23M TO CUT NSW SURGERY WAITLIST: LAWRENCE
THE State Government says it will spend $23 million to reduce overdue surgeries as part of the 2025-26 Budget, with Labor’s MLC for Western NSW Stephen Lawrence saying his government has made “significant progress in reducing the overdue surgeries that we inherited” from the previous government.
New figures this month from the Bureau of Health Information revealed an increase of 1745 overdue surgeries in the last quarter alone, taking the total
to 8587 patients, however the State Government says this is still down from around 14,000 in March 2023 when they established the Surgical Care Governance Taskforce after winning the election.
The latest funding boost is expected to facilitate around 3500 additional planned surgeries over the coming year, directly targeting patients who have waited longer than clinically recommended.
The Government attributes the recent rise to disruptions from Tropical Cy-
clone Alfred in northern NSW and ongoing workforce availability issues in various parts of the state.
Mr Lawrence said Emergency Departments have enjoyed a significant decrease in semi-urgent and non-urgent presentations over the past year.
He pointed to the areas where performance had improved in the Western NSW Health District –semi-urgent presentations decreased by 7.2 per cent (1580 patients) and nonurgent presentations by 7.6 per cent (645 patients).
RFS manager of the Orana team, Superintendent David Millsteed, with Cumboogle RFS President Kevin Parker
Cumboogle RFS Captain Mark Walkom, with new Life Member Steve Taylor, Jason Rance, and Life Member Phillip Baker at the brigade’s 85th anniversary celebrations. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
DUBBO WORKS is highlighting the excellent career and learning opportunities the Dubbo region offers. To contribute ideas, email dubboworks@dubbophotonews.com.au
Pre-apprenticeship training the key to beating construction skills shortage in the bush: study
By DAVID DIXON
NEARLY half of the bright young men and women taking up building apprenticeships in the region over the coming years are likely to never actually finish their training to trade, new research shows.
But the key to helping them achieve their dreams, while also helping overcome the chronic construction trade deficit in the bush, could lie in pre-apprenticeship training models, such as the NSW schools VET programs, the study found.
“Of the estimated 34,000 apprentices who will commence a construction trade apprenticeship this year, we expect fewer than 20,000 will make it through to complete their qualification – this must improve,” Future Workforce Executive Director Geordan Murray said.
“New research released by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research shines a spotlight on the important role that pre-apprenticeship training can play in supporting student success as they
begin a trade career,” Mr Murray said.
“The new research provides evidence that aspiring tradies who completed a pre-apprenticeship program had a significantly higher likelihood of completing a trade apprenticeship,” he added.
The problem is, he said, that only a small proportion of apprentices participate in any pre-apprenticeship training, and access to this type of training is limited.
“Pre-apprenticeship, try-a-trade, and job readiness programs play an important role in enabling people to explore career pathways, solidify career aspirations and make more informed decisions about their training needs.
“High quality pre-apprenticeship training is valuable for students who gain foundational skills while deepening their understanding of jobs in industry before committing to an apprenticeship. Furthermore, employers value this foundational training when recruiting apprentices,” Mr Murray believes.
The need to take a more nuanced
approach to ensuring our apprentices finish their trades is essential for our economic future, he argued.
“The residential building industry is already short of more than 83,000 tradies, and training the next generation is the only plausible way that this shortage will be overcome.
“While we need to ensure that careers in the building industry appeal to more workers, we must also ensure that the training pathways into trade careers are setting new entrants up for success.”
The statistics on the importance of pre-apprentice training were unambiguous, he claimed.
“Improving access to high quality pre-apprenticeship training will ensure that apprentices are jobready and starting out on the path to successfully complete their trade qualifications,” Mr Murray said.
“Policymakers must take heed of these research findings and ensure that the VET sector and industry are equipped and incentivised to deliver this type of foundational training.”
NSW Health Pathology is currently seeking a Medical Laboratory Assistant to join the Dubbo team on a Permanent Full Time basis.
The NSW Health Pathology Dubbo service is located within the newly redeveloped Dubbo Hospital and Cancer Care Centre, which is also a teaching hospital hosting six theatres. Dubbo Hospital and NSWHP provides both inpatient and outpatient services to the local Dubbo community and surrounding Western and Far Western areas. The NSWHP Dubbo team take pride in their professionalism and focus on high quality service delivery, as
well as promoting a harmonious environment that is connected to community and its stakeholders.
What you’ll be doing: Contribute to a customer-focused pathology collection service across inpatient, outpatient and home care settings. Provide a high-quality healthcare service to all referrers and consumers. Perform venepuncture and other duties pertaining to specimen collection, data entry, processing, and delivery into sites for pathology investigations as required.
Much more information on this opportunity can be found at www.seek. com.au/job/84893050
The key to overcoming the chronic shortfall in construction workers could lie in pre-apprenticeship training models, such as the NSW schools’ VET programs. PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK
‘Queen of common sense parenting’
common sense parenting’ Maggie Dent is coming to Dubbo at the end of the month, to give stressed parents on some hints and advice to smooth the way.
Today’s teens, she believes, deal with challenges that their parents may never have imagined, Maggie –one of Australia’s leading parenting authors, podcasters, and star of the ABC TV series, ‘The Role of a Lifetime’ – believes.
Maggie explores how parents can support their teens through these challenges in her latest book ‘Help Me Help My Teen’.
“Change is stressful so adolescence, by its nature of being a transitional phase of development, has always been stressful for our kids,” Maggie says.
“However, social media and changing cultural norms have only increased the pressure to excel and fit in, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and depression for our teens.
“That’s why I wrote this book, because I believe that teens are capable of handling these pressures with resilience and strength – when they are supported by stable, loving connections with family, teachers, and
search, a survey of 1500 teens, and her own experiences as an educator,
The bestselling author said her goal was to show parents how to provide a safe and supportive environment for their teens, while also offering clear, compassionate and useful advice on how to approach sensitive topics such as school grades, technology use, sex, drugs and alcohol, mental health, and identity.
Maggie said she had been trying to get back to Western NSW since the pandemic scuttled her tour plans in 2020 – and many of the parents who came to see her on her last visit here would now have kids in their teenage years.
Now 70, she said that ‘Help Me Help My Teen’ would be her final book written for parents.
“I started my career teaching teens at high school and I am now sharing my final book for people who live and work for teens – it’s a full circle moment – and I look forward to sharing it with parents and educators in Dubbo.”
Maggie’s talk, Help Me Help My Teen, is at St Johns College, Dubbo East, 6.30-8.30pm on Monday, June 30.
Tickets available from: https:// www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1385882
Maybe medicine?
Twenty high school students from Dubbo College Senior and South Campus recently took part in the School of Rural Health’s annual Maybe Medicine program, designed to introduce Years 10, 11 and 12 students to a career as a rural doctor. From learning how to take blood pressure and perform CPR to exploring the university application process, the program off ers a hands-on and inspiring insight into the world of medicine.
The students were also introduced to the AMGEN Biotech Experience, where they learned the scientifi c skill of pipett ing, an essential technique in the
fi eld of biotechnology. This fi eld is the foundation for modern pharmaceutical research and drug development and off ers an exciting study pathway for students interested in pursuing an undergraduate science degree before taking on postgraduate medicine at the School of Rural Health.
Local GP Dr Paul Roth delved into the life of a rural GP and gave the students up to date information on the undergraduate and postgraduate pathways to becoming a doctor and the critical role doctors play in rural communities, especially considering the current and projected rural doctor shortages.
“This year is the most students we’ve had attending the annual Maybe Medicine program. We have received glowing feedback from the students, and it was wonderful to hear that over the course of the program the students were increasingly interested in learning more about becoming a doctor and rural health careers in general,” said Cheryl ‘Possum’ Swinton, Community Engagement Offi cer for the School of Rural Health.
With such positive feedback, we are looking forward to welcoming even more high school students to the program each year and seeing how it continues to inspire future careers in rural health.
If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a rural doctor, get in touch with the School of Rural Health on ruralinfo@ sydney.edu.au
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Collie CWA set to celebrate centenary
By SHARON BONTHUYS
A century of giving and supporting the community will be joyfully celebrated later this month when the members of the Collie branches of the Country Women’s Association (CWA) of NSW gather with others from near and far for a luncheon to mark a significant milestone - their centenary.
Collie is a community with two CWA branches, and while technically the centenary applies to the Day Branch, which held its first meeting in December, 1925, the 100th anniversary of CWA operating locally will be celebrated by both the Day and Evening Branches.
A delicious luncheon prepared by branch members will form part of the event on the last Saturday in June that will also include memorabilia displays and other activities.
The event in the historic Collie CWA Hall is completely free to attend, funded by the efforts of local CWA members. Attendees must RSVP though, so organisers know numbers for catering.
Past state president of the CWA of NSW, Mrs Joy Beames, will be a special guest at the event, which will also be attended by CWA members from other branches in
the region and beyond. Indeed, 2025 is a big year for CWA centenaries. Another 16 branches of CWA of NSW will join
Collie in celebrating their centenaries this year, such was the popularity of the organisation for country women that started way
back in 1922. Nearby Warren is also set to celebrate its centenary in the coming months.
Day Branch president, Noe-
lene Herbig, and secretary, Helen Murray, lead the dedicated team organising the Collie CWA centenary.
Helen spoke to the Warren Star and Gilgandra Weekly about the preparations for the event.
“It’s all happening! We’re getting there,” she said.
A working bee was held at the hall recently and members have been busy gathering memorabilia for the displays on the day, she added.
The planning committee has issued personal invitations to the event, and is pleased with the response at this stage.
“We’ve had a pretty good response. The more, the merrier,” Helen said.
One challenge organisers have faced has been locating past members who have moved away from the area.
“We’re finding it a little bit hard to contact people who have been here in the past or families of past members,” Helen said.
The organisers would love readers of this story to spread the word and help them connect with past members and or their families so they can be invited to the event.
For further information, reach out to the Collie CWA branches.
‘WAKE UP CALL’: MORE AUSSIE KIDS MISSING MILESTONES
By STEPHANIE GARDINER
NEARLY half of all Australian children are not meeting physical, emotional, social and communication developmental milestones by the time they start school, as calls for a universal early education system intensify.
Only 53 per cent of children are developmentally on track when they start school, a slight decrease since 2021, according to the Australian Early Development Census.
The national survey of 288,483 children and 16,723 teachers measured development across five domains: physical health and wellbeing, social competence, emotional maturity, language skills and communication.
The rate of children developmentally vulnerable in two or
more domains is at its highest level since the census began in 2009, sitting at 12.5 per cent.
Only 43 per cent of children in remote Australia were developmentally on track, compared to 50 per cent in larger regional areas and 54 per cent in the major cities.
Those rates represented a slight decline for all children since the last census in 2021.
There were also developmental gaps among First Nations students and children from lower-income families.
The results demonstrated the urgency for equitable early education and health services, according to several advocacy groups.
Children’s health charity Royal Far West, which links rural families with specialist support, has long been highlighting the shortage of early
intervention services in the bush.
There were nearly 200,000 children in remote areas with very limited access to speech and language therapy or mental health support, with 37 psychologists per 100,000 people in outer regional areas.
The federal government must live up to its promise to even the playing field, the charity’s chief executive Jacqui Emery said.
“(The) government must ensure that every Australian child, regardless of their location or circumstances, is not left behind,” Ms Emery said.
“The 2024 census underscores how urgent and important these reforms are for all Australian children.”
There have been several steps towards universal access, with the government intro-
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ducing a three-day guarantee for early childhood education, abolishing the activity test and committing to build more services in areas of need.
Minderoo Foundation’s Thrive By Five campaign, which highlights the importance of learning and brain development in a child’s early years, called for more comprehensive reforms including tailored services for First Nations children.
“This data should be a wakeup call, but it should also be a call to action,” spokesman Griffin Longley said.
“We know what works and we know how to fix this; now we need to build the system that gives every Australian child the foundation they deserve.”
Australian children are failing to meet key developmental milestones before starting school.
PHOTO: AAP/BIANCA DE MARCHI
Level crossing money for bush councils
By DAVID DIXON
BUSH councils in the Central West are to receive part of $1.17 million in grants to improve safety at level crossings in regional areas.
The funding, delivered through the Level Crossing Improvement Program -- Regional Council Minor Works, will support 21 projects across regional NSW, benefiting 81 level crossings on council-managed local and regional roads.
As part of the package, Forbes Shire Council will receive $20,000 to fund critical minor engineering works and essential safety upgrades at seven level crossings, including improving road approaches and updating advance warning signage.
This is a sub-program of the NSW Government’s broader Level Crossing Improvement Program, through which the NSW Government invests $7.3 million annually to upgrade public level crossings and increase awareness through safety education and enforcement campaigns.
Successful projects were determined through a merit-based application process considering key safety data including the Australian Level Crossing Assessment Model (ALCAM) rating and NSW safety incident data, Member for Orange Philip Donato said.
“I welcome the announcement that Forbes Shire Council is receiving $20,000 from this important safety program to improve seven level crossings across the shire,” Mr Donato said.
“As a proud local member, I know these grants will directly benefit the communities I represent... from families traveling
throughout regional NSW and surrounding areas, to freight operators and agricultural businesses moving goods along our regional roads,” he added.
With more than 1300 level crossings located on public roads across the state, collisions between trains and vehicles represent a major road and rail safety risk.
“These potentially life-saving projects will address real safety concerns, improving road approaches, and updating advance warning signage at crossings that our locals use every day,” Mr Donato said.
“It’s exactly the kind of practical infrastructure investment our regional communities need to keep people safe on our roads,” he added.
MACQUARIEREGIONALLIBRARY
By KEN SMITH
DubboPhotoNewswas
Roger and Irene.
Jason, Michael, Kiwi, Trish, Ruth, Steve, Roger and Jason.
Backstage Fun at the Dubbo Eisteddfod 2025
By KEN SMITH
DubboPhotoNewscaptured some of the backstage fun, energy and colour at the City of Dubbo Eisteddfod 2025 during early afternoon and evening sessions on Friday, June 6.
Among the sections being contested were the Tap, Improv and the 13/14 Years Entertainment Variety
Performance Solo (Rotary Club of Dubbo Trophy) with first place going to Billy Zell for an incredible Michael Jackson performance, second place to Grace Hilder and third to Lincoln Letfallah.
Highly commended were Lara Coote, Ayla Brown, Ahrazana Rose and Scarlett Roberts. Congratulations to all competitors!
MORE PHOTOS: Glitz and Glamour at the City of Dubbo Eisteddfod, page 31
Ahrazana Rose
Willow Scott
Scarlett Roberts and Isabelle Ridge
Lara Coote
Hospital issues impact region
By SHARON BONTHUYS
LATE last month it was widely reported that Orange Hospital – which services a region the size of the United Kingdom – has been regularly operating under “Code Black” conditions.
Director of Surgery at Orange Hospital, Dr Rob Knox, explained “Code Black” means no available beds, no capacity to accept regional transfers, and an overwhelmed emergency system.
Dr Knox told Dubbo Photo News the Code Black scenario is the latest in a long series of issues plaguing local health service delivery at Orange Hospital, which allegedly stems from chronic under-resourcing and opposition by management to implement locally-identified solutions.
Unrealistic budgets and key performance indicators (KPIs) have also reportedly put regional patient outcomes at risk.
“We are seeing patients with emergency conditions like bowel obstructions and fractures left waiting, while non-urgent surgeries go ahead – simply to meet KPIs,” said Dr Knox.
Concerns also include a blowout in emergency and elective surgery waiting times, alleged recategorisation of cancer surgeries and publication of false wait-list data, specialists being prevented from treating patients, and theatre and bed capacity underutilised.
With Orange Hospital the main emergency surgical and trauma centre for a district of 285,000 people, the implications of regular Code Black operations on the many patients travelling from
rural, regional and remote areas for treatment and surgery are of concern.
Dr Knox, speaking on behalf of his medical colleagues, agrees.
“Regional people are prepared. They are used to having to travel for services. But, you know, travelling to a big city is something most of us find really quite confronting,” Dr Knox said.
“Our key aim in raising all of this is to ensure that we have a sustainable workforce for the future and well equipped local hospitals, be it Orange or Dubbo, that are equipped with the latest technologies and up to date clinicians who are deeply invested in the local area to provide services as close to home as is practical,” he explained.
“There’s a lack of incentive to really invest in local service delivery, and that’s something we’re desperate to try to overcome,” he added.
On May 29, State Member for Orange Phil Donato called upon Health Minister Ryan Park in parliament to undertake an independent and transparent investigation into the issues raised.
Minister Park agreed, indicating the current government had invested $200 million into trying to reduce the post-pandemic surgery backlog.
Western NSW Local Health District also released several media statements addressing the concerns raised.
“I’m pleased the minister has announced an independent, third party, transparent investigation, because that’s exactly what needs to happen,” Dr Knox concluded.
Step into a realm of fun at CWEST Con
By KEN SMITH
The King’s Birthday weekend saw the return of CWEST Con, the local annual Board & Tabletop Game Convention.
Bradley, Christopher
This well-attended local threeday event, previously known as DubCon, has been rebranded to acknowledge the large and growing board and tabletop game community in Dubbo and the Central West.
CWEST Con was held at Relic Games in Cobra Street, Dubbo with free entry. It was a hive of activity and serious fun across the long weekend, playing games and teaching various games to the converted and the curious.
CWEST Con also ran a raffle to raise money for the Dubbo District Deaf Club, to help set up a youth group and provide games for children to play during parent meetings.
CWEST Con and the local gaming community welcomes all ages. If you would like more information, please visit CW Con OR Relic Games on Facebook or drop into Relic Games in Cobra Street, Dubbo.
Back, Stuart Southwell, Oliver Braithwaite and Michael Nott, front, Erika Roper, Ilka Awdry and Jason Root. Alex Kidman and Di Kidman.
Travis Sell, Joshua Ronan and Haydon Seis.
Grant
Goud, Demi Pellegriti and Bee Gallagher.
WELLINGTON NEWS
New laptop course helping launch Wello’s REACT project
By DAVID DIXON
COMPUTER skills are the key to basic jobs literacy in the 21st century, with Dubbo Council in coming weeks providing special training courses as part of its preparatory package for Wellington’s new Net Zero training facility.
To achieve this, council is partnering with jobs training provider VERTO to facilitate the ‘Laptop to Launch’ program, which seeks to provide digital skills to those in the local community who most need them.
The training is part of council’s Renewable Energy Awareness and Career Training (REACT) project which is collaborating with outside partners to deliver renewable energy jobs and skills for job-seekers before the building’s construction in Wellington, DRC Strategic Partnerships and Investment Manager, Kim Hague, explained.
“The REACT program, and ultimately the REACT Centre in Wellington, will directly connect local people with real opportunities,
giving them the skills, and a pathway they need to step into jobs and potentially into the growing renewable energy sector,” Ms Hague revealed.
“These four-day courses, which will be run in both Dubbo and Wellington, showcase what the REACT Centre is all about with the digital literacy course allowing participants to build digital skills, equip them with essential knowledge and practical tools for navigating modern workplace technology,” she added.
The $11.25 million REACT Centre aims to deliver long-term and legacy benefits for local residents to benefit from employment opportunities with the Central West Orana Renewable Energy Zone.
The Laptop to Launch program will offer participants the skills to master the Google suite of programs, manage shared drives, use and order emails efficiently, and engage in virtual meetings.
It will also showcase the different types of digital technology that is commonly used in the work-
By COLIN ROUSE
lieves. “Laptop to Launch is also about training and equipping our community with the skills they need in the world today including the opportunities that the renewable energy industry will provide for our region.”
The partnership aims to bring this program to life in important ways for the community, VERTO CEO Ron Maxwell argued.
place and assist participants in setting up apps to access government and non-government sites such as Centrelink, Express Plus, Seek, LinkedIn, and MyGov. It will seek to train participants in goal-setting, entrepreneurship,
Seth Whiteman, James Whiteman, Ella RyanSmith, Kaedee Parker, Lyrah Parker, Isabelle Whiteman, Ebony Ryan, Imogen Ryan, Malik Dorin and
and vital communication skills as well.
“The Laptop to Launch course pairs so well with the REACT brand, by allowing us to demonstrate the value it will have within our community,” Ms Hague be-
“Working with Dubbo Regional Council on the Laptop to Launch program is a great example of what can be achieved through local partnerships,” Mr Maxwell said. “Together, we are delivering practical training that helps people gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed in today’s workforce.”
The course will first be held at the WINS Community Centre in Wellington running from Tuesday, June 24, to Friday, June 27, and again at VERTO Dubbo from Tuesday, July 1, until Friday, July 4, from 9.30am to 3pm.
To register interest, contact Tanya Benett on 0429 278 638 or email: tbenett@verto.org.au
DRC Strategy Partnerships and Investment Manager Kim Hague, VERTO Trainer Tim McGrath and Business Development Manager Tanya Benett, DRC Economic Development Services Officer Brittany Sultana, and VERTO Business Development Manager Martin Bennett. PHOTO: SUPPLIED.
Photo News loves catching up with family and friends enjoying time out in Wellington. Here are some of the people our photographer met over Friday and the weekend.
OUT AND ABOUT IN WELLINGTON
Matt, Cheryl and Angel Budd
Dave and Wendy Wilson
Samantha and Kevin
Left:
Thumbs Up and congratulations to Emily in the photo department at Officeworks. Top-class professional service and attention. Sincere appreciation.
Thumbs Up to the First Dubbo Scouts Group for inviting seniors from a Dubbo retirement village to their recent seniors’ dinner and and campfire night. It was a marvellous evening and all their parents, carers and Scout leaders should be very proud of their Scouts.
Thumbs Up and a huge thank you to the lovely gentleman who paid for our petrol at Inland Petroleum last week when my husband, who suffers from Parkinson’s, was having trouble operating his credit card. Many thanks, forever grateful. You know who you are.
Thumbs Up to the staff at The Grapevine for being so friendly. When we had brunch their recently, we could see at least two tables were filled with visitors to town –so it’s great to know those people will leave Dubbo with such a positive impression of our city.
Thumbs Up to the many wonderful dedicated teachers in Dubbo, and in particular to the teachers who volunteer to go on school excursions, taking them away from their own families so they can help our kids. These trips (which are a great learning experience) wouldn’t happen without you, so thank-you! You can contribute too
If you’d like to send in a Thumbs Up, story or photos for our InFocus page, email photos@dubbophotonews.com.au. Please include a caption with each photo letting us know the names of the people pictured. We also prefer the original high-resolution versions of contributed photos – they always look much better in our paper!
Draught Horse Stud Book Society hosts Peak Hill show
CONTRIBUTED by RODNEY CHORLTON
GREETINGS from Peak Hill, 70 kilometres south of Dubbo, where the Australian Draught Horse Stud Book Society Western Branch Show was held recently! I’m told it was the 49th Show, and our photos here show some of those who attended on the day.
CONFERENCE TO BRING TOGETHER SAFETY PARTNERS WHO ARE
PREVENTING
DOMESTIC, FAMILY AND SEXUAL ABUSE
Contributed
by DUBBO VIOLENCE PREVENTION COLLECTIVE
FOR several months the members of the Dubbo Violence Prevention Collective (DVPC) have been working to bring together sector policy makers, leaders, experts and frontline providers of services to collaborate and learn from each other at the Collective annual conference.
The venue for 2025 is once again the Savannah Room at Taronga Western Plains Zoo on Tuesday, June 24.
The theme, content and
presenters of the conference have never been more important for the sector and communities in the region, and recent tragic events and national conversations will feature at the event.
The keynote speaker will be Women’s Safety Commissioner Dr Hannah Tonkin who is returning to update conference participants on the progress made to strengthen responses to gendered violence across the whole of government in NSW.
Supporting Dr Tonkin will be leaders from NSW Police, Department of Communities & Justice, the Association of Chil-
dren’s Welfare Agencies, WNSW Local Health District, NSW Legal Aid and victim survivors.
The DVPC is a collection of domestic violence services in Dubbo and wants to increase the awareness of domestic violence and encourage the entire community to be involved in identifying it and bringing it to an end.
Domestic violence-related assault has continued to rise in NSW since the end of the pandemic, with the Far West and Orana region having a rate 3.5 times that of the overall rate in NSW.
DV remains a significant issue with far-reaching
impacts on individuals, families and our community. The Dubbo Regional Local Government Area is ranked eighth in the state, according to December 2024 statistics.
“The issue of domestic and family violence has gained increasing media attention and public awareness and needs continued recognition and discussion in the public realm,” said Angela Coker, chair of the Collective.
“Domestic and family violence is never acceptable, and families and community members play a significant role in the importance of speaking up if they see or suspect
something, and these displays strengthen this message and emphasise that together we can break the silence and bring a voice to domestic and family violence,” added Ms Coker.
The Collective provides a forum for the domestic violence services in Dubbo, to work together to continually improve support to victims and their families, and organises numerous community events to increase community awareness of domestic violence and support the community to see it, hear it, report it. If you need support, call 1800 RESPECT or in an emergency call 000.
Hando.
Barbecue for charity crew, including Des Thomson and Jim Peterson.
Peak Hill Red Cross: Kay Lindsay, Sue Strahorn, Sandy Strahorn, Sue Ellen Sharkey and Ruth Vouchier.
Cumboogle Brigade celebrates 85th anniversary
By DAVID DIXON
As
Lily, Brianna, Larah Westcott.
Jayson Rance and John Parsons having a laugh at the anniversary event.
Cumboogle Rural Fire Brigade anniversary celebrations. Emma and Scurry.
Jamie Gibson and John Parsons.
Dave and Margie Easman.
Commander of the Western area Danny Busch, Jennylee Millgate, and Dubbo Mayor Josh Black. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Cumboogle Rural Fire Brigade anniversary celebrations were held last month in a special occasion at Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s Savannah Room with about 80 members, relatives and supporters from as far away as Brisbane and the NSW South Coast attending.
these photos show, it was a great event enjoyed by the local community for the Brigade first established in 1939.
Cumboogle RFS Members.
Idyllic creek-side home
85 ARGYLE AVENUE, DUBBO
Located in the popular Southlakes estate, this three bedroom home has exceptional views of the Southlakes Creek system and walking tracks, and is ideal for the downsizer or someone looking for low-maintenance but premium living.
85 Argyle Avenue is tucked away from the street providing you with a private entrance.
The open plan living area spills into a covered alfresco overlooking water views. The large kitchen is ideal for cooking with a walk-in pantry, SMEG appliances, gas top cooking, and stone benchtops. The master bedroom has a walk-in robe and sizeable ensuite, while the other two bedrooms have builtin robes.
Outside the home has been completely landscaped with irrigation sprinklers, drippers to gardens and some garden beds, with opportunities for more.
Features include:
• Three bedrooms, master with walk-in, other two with built-ins
• Two bathrooms – 1 ensuite, 1 main – main featuring freestanding bathtub
• Large kitchen fitted with stone benchtops, SMEG appliances and walk-in pantry
• Large double door entrance
• Revers cycle, ducted and zoned air conditioning
• Fully landscaped with fitted sprinklers
To enquire, call 1300 016 227, visit www.southlakesestate. com.au or visit our office at 76 Azure Avenue.
ROOMS from $16,990
on 5 x 2.5 conditions apply,
from $13,500
with Karen Chant from Chant and Co
Preparing For a Winter Open Home
Preparing your home for a winter open house can make a significant difference in attracting buyers. Here are key tips to ensure your home shines:
1. Maintain Curb Appeal: Keep the exterior tidy and well-maintained. A clean, clutter-free home inside and out creates a strong first impression, even in winter.
2. Create Warmth: Ensure the home is warm and inviting by turning on the heat in advance. Add cozy touches with soft furnishings like cushions, rugs, and throws to make the space feel comfortable.
3. Enhance Natural Light: Open blinds and curtains to let in as much light as possible. On darker days, supplement with indoor lighting or candles to create a warm ambiance.
4. Add Greenery: Brighten up the exterior with evergreen plants or potted flowers. Fresh flowers or indoor plants can bring vibrancy to interior spaces as well.
5. Mind the Details: Create a welcoming aroma with candles or fresh coffee. If the weather is wet, have an umbrella stand and shoe covers ready. Dress outdoor areas to show their potential year-round.
6. Work with Your Agent: Collaborate with your agent for tailored suggestions to make your home stand out during the winter months. By focusing on warmth, light, and small details, your winter open home can feel just as inviting as any spring sale.
Are you thinking of selling? Give Karen Chant a call on 0448 191167 or email karen@chantandco.com.au
Beautifully
•Low maintenance
• •Stone benchtops and SMEG appliances
•Zone ducted reverse cycle air conditioning throughout
•Light custom colour scheme
•Open planned living with undercover patios including gas points
Indulge in a
Average Aussie home prices hit $1m with more growth to come
By ALLANAH SCIBERRAS
Australia’s property market continues to strengthen and gain momentum as the value of the average home soars past the $1 million mark for the first time.
The national mean dwelling price reached $1,002,500 in the March quarter, a 0.7 per cent increase from the previous three months, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics figures released earlier this month.
The Real Estate Institute of Australia expects prices to continue rising, although the pace of growth is unlikely to return to the levels seen during the COVID-19 property boom.
Figures from the ABS show the total value of the nation’s residential dwellings rose by $130.7 billion to a staggering $11.4 trillion.
Real Estate Institute of Australia President Leanne Pilkington expects house prices to continue to rise for the rest of the year.
“We’re certainly not going to
see the massive increases that we saw during COVID, but we do think house prices will continue to increase, particularly as interest rates are predicted to fall further,” she told AAP.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, speaking at the National Press Club, noted that regulation and red tape had made building and buying a home in Australia too hard.
Mr Albanese said it was too complex and expensive to get
a project off the ground, adding that Housing Minister Clare O’Neil had been tasked with reducing those barriers.
“It is too hard and one of the areas is regulation,” he told the National Press Club.
He also backed a failed NSW project to redevelop Sydney’s Rosehill Racecourse, describing the controversial proposal as “absolutely right”.
The proposal aimed to transform the 140-year-old track
into a “mini-city” encompassing about 25,000 homes, but it was ultimately voted down by the racecourse owner’s members.
“That’s the sort of thing that we’re going to need to do. You can’t deal with supply issues without having the courage to do things like that,” Mr Albanese said.
“(We) want to make sure that housing is fit for purpose and all of that but if we can cut through on some of the red tape, then that will reduce costs.”
According to the ABS, the increase in residential dwellings was fuelled by housing markets in Queensland, Western Australia and South Australia.
While NSW remains Australia’s most expensive property market with a median price of $1.25 million, Queensland is not far behind at $944,700.
Though prices are rising, further interest rate cuts could slow the pace of increases compared to the same period
last year.
Data reveals the average price in the ACT went backwards, falling to $941,300, as the Northern Territory maintains the lowest mean price at $517,700.
Eliza Owen, head of research at property analyst group Cotality, told AAP it was not a surprise the nation’s property market continued to be pushed to record values.
“(It comes) off the back of long-term constraint on housing supply, compounded by more recent factors like interest rate reductions, which increase access to finance,” she said.
Ms Owen noted the interest rate reduction earlier this year helped reinvigorate demand across the housing market on a fairly broad basis.
While the average dwelling price has reached seven figures for the first time, Ms Owen said factors such as rate reductions had given markets like Sydney a “sugar hit”, rather than triggering a large upswing like the robust growth seen in 2021.
Proudly sponsored by
Dubbo South Public School Year Two Extension Mathematics
Each week, students in the Dubbo South Public School Year Two Extension Mathematics class, have been asking insightful questions and enthusiastically working to satisfy their mathematical curiosity.
Students have been working on identifying key information in challenging worded problems, exploring how their number knowledge can be applied in unfamiliar contexts, and building-on their understanding of fractions and their applications.
Amazing work, Year Two!
RetailerWeek
Influenza shots to travel vaccinations to diabetes: Orana Mall Pharmacy is your one-stop chemist shop
Orana Mall Pharmacy is one of those old-style local chemist shops where you know all the friendly staff, and personal service is a given.
They are also your one stop for a range of health services to keep you healthy this winter and well away from your GP’s over-crowded waiting room, pharmacist Mollie Gersbach explained.
“We’ve got the flu shots, and almost any of the national immunisation program vaccines also,” Mollie explained.
“We also have all the travel vaccines you may require, as well as the influenza and COVID shots,” she added.
Orana Mall Pharmacy also provides a number of other consultative services that will help keep you away from our hard-pressed hospital emergency departments over the colder months, so that they are clear for urgent and acute medical episodes, Mollie added.
“There’s a couple of the consulta-
tions we can do, such as for UTI (Urinary Tract Infections) for applicable people, the oral contraceptive pill for applicable people, and treatments for some dermatological conditions as well.
“We also do some pharmaceutical compounding as well as point-ofcare testing for such conditions as cholesterol levels and checking for the chance of diabetes – they’re just blood tests with a painless finger prick,” Mollie said.
Not one of those giant supermarket-style pharmacy chains marketing everything from gloss lipsticks to weight loss shakes, Orana Mall Pharmacy is your friendly family outlet where every customer is an individual.
“We’re open seven days, full hours and full service, on all days,” Mollie said.
“We’re a traditional pharmacy offering the one-on-one service that people do appreciate,” she concluded.
ORANA MALL THE OF
Here for your health and wellbeing: Mollie Gersbach, Leisa Stone and Tiffany Findlay at the Orana Mall Pharmacy. Photo: Dubbo Photo News/Ken Smith
KiDZ ONLY!
WHAT KIDS SAY
Huxley
How old are you? Four
What are you good at? I’m good at playing!
What is your favourite food? I love party pies with sauce. Yum!
What makes you laugh? My Mummy
What do you like doing at childcare? I love playing! Who’s the boss in your family? Dad!
Which zoo animal would you like to have as a pet?
The tigers – ROAR!!
What would you like to be when you grow up? I want to be big! I want to drive an excavator. How old is grown up? Four
TRAEVON - JUNE 4
Happy 10th Birthday, mister moo! We love you! Love Mum, Dad, Huxy and Angel. Xoxo
CHILD
AMBER - JUNE 25
Happy 6th Birthday Amber, lots of Love, Nanny
KNOW A BIRTHDAY
THIS MONTH?
Why did the kid bring a ladder to school?
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.
1 x FREE BABY ROLL per coupon with any purchase over $10 at SUSHI HARU (Orana Mall only) EXPIRES JUNE
What does a cloud wear under his raincoat? What time is it when the clock strikes 13? Because she wanted to go to high school.
Thunderwear. Time to get a new clock. Q Q Q A A A
Glitz and Glamour at the City of Dubbo Eisteddfod
By KEN SMITH
It was a whole day of Glitz and Glamour at the City of Dubbo Eisteddfod on Saturday, June 14. Junior Dance Groups were on stage featuring Hip Hop/Urban, Group Modern, Classical, Group Jazz, and Group Tap.
Orana Dance Centre 8 Years Tap
Urban Edge Junior Tap Group
Dance Headquarters Orange 8 Years
Fierce Performing Arts U/6 Dance
Hugo, Bella and Theo – Hip Hop/ Urban
Bella, Courtney, Hugo and Theo
CROSSWORD
Witticism (7)
Touching without intersecting (7)
Fabric embellishment (10) 30 Swab (3)
1 Olympic sporting category (10)
2 Closest galaxy (9) 4 Doing the dishes (7,2)
Offspring (5) 6 Archaic name for Britain (6) 7 Japanese seaport (5)
8 Horned ruminant (4)
9 Antenna (6)
14 Informal bulletin (10)
16 Dangerous aquatic reptile (9)
18 Designer (9)
21 Temporary (6)
22 Sound system (6)
24 Ascend (5)
25 Wanderer (5)
26 Gala (4)
5 LETTERS
YOUR STARS
ARIES: When planning your holidays, even if it’s a long trip, remember to include some downtime at home. You’ll have a long phone conversation with a true friend who values your company.
TAURUS: You may have to ask f or a refund or a price adjustment after a specific purchase. This winter, you’ll sign up for a short training course that will boost your professional development.
GEMINI: Your friends and loved one s will need your help and support this week. As you inevitably devote yourself to helping them, they’ll express their gratitude and appreciation for your kindness.
CANCER: In the upcoming weeks, you’ll focus on a professional or personal project. You’ll work alongside a talented team that can help turn your visions into reality.
LEO: Your week will be marked by up s and downs in your energy levels. You’ll celebrate excellent news regarding a family member’s
QUICK QUIZ
1. What was the first bridge to be built across the River Thames in London?
2. Pachinko is a popular form of gambling in which country?
3. What type of animal is a Bastard Trumpeter?
4. Hank Azaria (pictured) supplies the voices for many of the characters in which US animated series?
5. The Treaty of Paris in 1856 ended which war?
WORD SEARCH
health, leading to a spontaneous gathering.
will be off ered to you to settle your debts or start renovation work.
VIRGO: Time is precious and limited. You’ll have to be extremely organised to complete all your projects. You’ll participate in joyful festivities that will recharge your energy and prepare you to tackle your goals.
ed to C find import a
CAPRICORN: You’ll ind yourself leading important negotiations or finalising a lengthy business deal. Don’t be afraid of change; welcome it with confidence. It will benefit you in the long term.
LIBRA: If you’re looking for a job, someone close to you may guide you to an unexpected career opportunity. You’re about to launch an exciting venture, whether it’s organising a trip or starting a business.
SCORPIO: Plan yourself a welldeserved vacation this winter. You have all the tools you need to grow your business. You’ll receive support from knowledgeable experts.
SAGITTARIUS: Bring peace back into your life and resolve any conflicts within your circle. Solutions
6. Where does a croupier work?
7. Which classic musical features the character Officer Krupke?
8. True or false: the leek is a national emblem of Wales?
9. Do stingrays give birth to eggs or live offspring?
10. In which Australian state is the Pyrenees Wine Region located?
AQUARIUS: You’ll be surprised to f ind yourself in the spotlight this week. Prepare to be recognised for a heroic deed, even if only for lending a listening ear to a person in emotional distress.
PISCES: One of your children may f eel hesitant to leave their friends for other activities over the next month or two. They’ll need a bit of extra attention, potentially requiring you to take time off work. Additionally, an elderly relative may need your presence and support. The luckiest signs this week: Leo, Virgo and Libra.
Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.
LAYER
Place each of the tiles of letters into the blank jigsaw below to create four six-letter words going across and down.
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.
by Paul Dorin
INSANITY STREAK by Tony Lopes
OUT ON A LIMB by Gary Kopervas
WUMO by Wulff & Morgenthaler
Beloved son of Linda and Thomas (dec)
Much loved Brother and Uncle to his family and friend to many
Relatives and friends are warmly invited to attend Ray’s Cremation Service to be held at St Brigid’s Catholic Church, 198 Brisbane St, Dubbo on the 27 th June 2025. Commencing at 11.00am
It
Our
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
5/33 Hawthorn Street, Dubbo NSW 2830 or email details to: myentry@dubbophotonews.com.au
One entry per week per person please. Entries close at the end of the month. All entries received during the month go into the one big draw. The first correct entry drawn wins. Find us at the
Servicing Dubbo and Narromine
THE DIARY
ON THIS WEEK
Cumnock Market: Saturday, June 21, from 9am-12pm at Crossroads Park, Cumnock (opposite General Store). Anyone wishing to have a stall, contact Pat Gilmore 6367 7270.
COMING SOON
Kids’ Club: A fi ve-day kid’s club (for 5–12-year-olds) will be held from Monday 7th to Friday 11th July (9.30am to 12 noon) at Orana Baptist Church Hall, 4 Palmer Street. We are having a “Circus theme”. Enjoy games, stories, songs, and craft. Cost is $10 per day ($40 for the week). Ask about special rates for larger families. Spaces are limited. Enquiries to Julie on 0428 821 829.
THURSDAY
Above Board Gamers: SECOND and FOURTH Thursday of the month, 6pm, Devil’s Hollow Brewery. Alan 0432 278 235 Akela Playgroup: 9.30am, Scout Hall, 4 Akela St, Sharna 0438 693 789
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 Veteran’s & Community Men’s Shed: 11am12.30pm, West Dubbo Bowling Club. Barry 0439 344 349 Coffee, Craft and Chat: 9.30am-12pm, Gospel Hall, Cnr of Boundary Road and Taylor St. Anne 0428 425 958 Croquet: 8.15am for 8.30am start, Tuesday, Thursday. Croquet courts, Brisbane St, North Dubbo. Kate 0409 927 140, Lillian 0429 471 921
CWA Dubbo: FIRST Thursday of the month, 9.30am-11am, Oaktree 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
Dubbo Anglican Church Trinity Kids Playgroup: 10am-12pm, Anglican Church Hall, 158 Brisbane St., during School terms. Contact 6884 4990
Dubbo Community Men’s Shed Inc: Mondays 9am-1pm and Thu/Sat 1pm-5pm.
Small joining fee after three visits. All men are welcome, Kevin 0427 253 445 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 Heart Support Walking Group: 12.30pm, (also Tuesdays), Ollie Robbins Oval, Cnr of Bligh Street. Supports gentle exercise promoting healthy hearts, Ray 0437 541 942 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.
Line Dancing: 9.30am-12 noon, Greek Hall, corner Gipps and Roper Street, Dubbo. Kathy 6888 5287 or Lynn 6888 5263. 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 0427462504
Wellington Arts and Crafts: 10am3pm, Small Hall in the Anglican Church grounds, Wellington, variety of crafts, activities and workshops offered. Dorothy 0408 601 066
FRIDAY
Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings: 7pm (1.5hrs) – ID meeting, Dubbo Community Health, Palmer Street, Dubbo. Contact Dee 0417 422 750, 1300 222 222 or www.aa.org.au. 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.
Communion Service (Dubbo Anglican Church): 10am, Brotherhood House chapel, 158 Brisbane St. Community Kitchen: FIRST Friday of the month, 6.30pm, Holy Trinity Hall, Brisbane St, free meal. CPSA (Combined Pensioners and Superannuants Association): SECOND Friday each month, 10am, Dubbo RSL Club. Discuss issues, guest speaker. Further Information Barb 0427 251 121 Dubbo Nepalese Christian Fellowship: 6.30-8pm. Cyrel on 0416 826 701 or 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.
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. Geoff Smith 0427 895 447
Spinning and Weaving: 10am, at Dubbo Arts and Craft Cottage, 137 Cobra Street. Anne 0408 891 225
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 until approx-
imately 4.30pm, Bultje Street. $7 members, $9 non-members. 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 or 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. Contact Hilda 0427471270.
Dubbo Community Men’s Shed Inc: Mondays, 9am-1pm and Thu/Sat 1pm-5pm.
Small joining fee after three visits. “All men are welcome.” Kevin 0427 253 445
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. Embroiderers – Dubbo: 10am-3pm (also see Tuesday listing). All are welcome, Macquarie Regional Library. Contact Patricia 0439846400
Family History Society (Dubbo & District): 10am-1pm, volunteers on site during these hours, Western Plains Cultural Centre Community Arts Centre, Cnr Wingewarra and Gipps St.
Orana Writers’ Hub: 1st Saturday of the month 10-1. 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 on 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 0437824743
Saturday Art: 10am, at Dubbo Arts and Crafts Society Cottage, 137 Cobra St. Pam 6885 1918.
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! Contact Ronda on 0419 275 223.
Transition Dubbo Food + Film Night: For information about future events, contact Peter 0439 091 767.
SUNDAY
Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings (Steps and Traditions): 7pm (1.5hrs), ‘Steps and Traditions’ meeting, Dubbo Community Health, Palmer St. Jack 0418 605 041, Sally 0427 829 807, 1300 222 222 or www. aa.org.au Australian Kite Flyers Society:
Diary entries need to be 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 for that Thursday’s edition.
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 or 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: 6pm, at 251 Cobra Street (next to Spotlight), during school terms. Come along and discover if church is still relevant in today’s world. Everyone is welcome. 6884 2320
Dubbo Baptist Church: 9.30am, 251 Cobra Street (next to Spotlight). Everyone is welcome. 6884 2320
Dubbo Pistol Club: 12.30pm, 143L Old Dubbo Road, 6882 0007
Orana K9 Training Club INC: New intake class every 7th Sunday, daylight savings start time 8.45am, Eastern Standard time 9.45am. Orana K9 Training is now training at Pioneer Oval, Howard Ave, West Dubbo. Contact Reg 0428849877 or Dianne 0429847380.
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. Contact David 0424 252 834
MONDAY
Alcoholics Anonymous (Daily Reflections Meeting): 12pm Monday Lunch (1.5hr) – ‘Daily Reflections’ meeting St Brigid’s Catholic Church meeting rooms, 198 Brisbane St, Dubbo. Please contact David 0417 063 087 or contact 1300 222 222 or www. aa.org.au.
Amnesty International Dubbo: SECOND Monday of the month, 5.30pm6.30pm, St Brigid’s meeting room. Contact 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, affordable dance for girls/ladies, 4yrs and up, all fitness levels. dubbocityphysie@live.com.au
Dubbo Community Men’s Shed Inc: Mondays, 9am-1pm and Thu/Sat 1pm-5pm. Small joining fee after three visits. “All men are welcome.” Kevin 0427 253 445.
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.
Narromine Community Women’s Shed: 10am-3pm, (also Wednesdays), The Wesley Centre, 138 Dandaloo Street, Narromine. Leona 0487 200 987 Patchwork: 10am-3pm, at Dubbo Arts & Craft Cottage, 137 Cobra St, June 6882 4677.
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. Contact 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 Croquet: 8.15am for 8.30am start, Tuesday, Thursday. Croquet courts, Brisbane St, North Dubbo. Kate 0409 927 140, Lillian 0429 471 921
Dementia Sing Out Choir: Weekly 11am-12.30pm, Generosity Church, 51 Sheraton Road, Dubbo. Contact Anne Gemmell 0481396404.
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, affordable 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, contact Marie Francis 0408845640. Dubbo Embroiderers: 9.30am-3pm SECOND and FOURTH Tuesday of the month (also see Saturday listing) Dubbo Bridge Club, Elston Park, Bultje St Dubbo. All are welcome. Contact Patricia 0439846400 Dubbo Lions Club Inc: FIRST and THIRD Tuesday of the month, 6.30pm, Club Dubbo. PO Box 285 Dubbo, Lois on 0428288325 or dubbolionsinc@gmail.com.
Dubbo Men’s Probus: FIRST Tuesday of every month, 11am, Masonic Hall, Bob Ellis 0428217752
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
Heart Support Walking Group: 12.30pm, (also Thursday), Ollie Robbins Oval, Cnr of Bligh Street. Supports gentle exercise promoting healthy hearts, contact Ray 0437 541 942
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, contact Peter McInnes 0417 140 149 Rotary Club of Dubbo South: 6pm, at South Dubbo Tavern Silver Craft: THIRD Tuesday of the month, 10am, at Dubbo Arts and Crafts Society Cottage, 137 Cobra St. Julie 6884 4919 Smart Recovery (Behaviour Change Support Group): 5pm, online or in person. Rob on 0417 497 187 Spinning Group: Every third Tuesday 10am-4pm Dubbo Art and Craft Cottage, 137 Cobra Street. Contact Julie 0418 976 663 South Dubbo Veteran’s & Community Men’s Shed: 9am-12pm, Cnr of High and Palmer Streets. New members welcome Reach Out & Discussion Group for people with Eating Disorders: Expressions of Interest, Tuesdays. Venue TBA. Ph: 0455255137 after midday to express interest.
Toastmasters Club: FIRST and THIRD Tuesday of the month, 7pm-9pm, 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.
Alcoholics Anonymous Dubbo: Meet Wednesday 7pm (1.5hr) –‘Topic’ meeting St Brigid’s Catholic Church meeting rooms, 198 Brisbane St, Dubbo. Please contact Ian 0447 176 590, or 1300 222 222 or www.aa.org. au for info on meetings.
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. Contact 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 Coffee, 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. Contact Barb on 0409 159 556. CWA Narromine: SECOND Wednesday of the month, 5.30pm, USMC. Carolyn 0427747478
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. Contact Marion on 0429033836
Dementia Friendship Group: SECOND Wednesday of month, 10.30am, Western Plains Cultural Centre, Creo Cafe, Wingewarra St. Anne Gemmell 0481396404.
Dubbo Arts and Craft Cottage: 10am-4pm, 137 Cobra Street. A large range of handcrafted gifts made by members available. Contact 6881 6410
Dubbo Bobbin Lacemakers: THIRD Wednesday of the month, 10am-3pm, Arts & Crafts Society Cottage and Craft Shop, 137 Cobra Street. Judy 6882 5776
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. Contact 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. Contact Colene 0400422335 Line Dancing: 6.30pm-8.30pm, Greek Hall, corner Gipps and Roper Street, Dubbo. Kathy 6888 5287 or Lynn 6888 5263. Lodge Allan Stuart 416: SECOND Wednesday of month, Geurie Masonic Centre. Please email secretary@lodgeallanstuart416.org.au Narromine Community Women’s Shed: Mondays and Wednesdays, 10am-3pm, The Wesley Centre, 138 Dandaloo Street, Narromine. Leona 0487 200 987 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.
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Bears draw away
By BRYSON LUFF
AFTER two successive games where they had draws with both Narromine and Warren, the Coonamble Bears returned to the winners’ list when they drew away from the Cobar Roosters in the last quarter of their Christie and Hood Castlereagh League Round 7 clash played in front of their faithful at Coonamble Sportsground on Saturday.
Down 18 to 22 at the half time break, and then looking at a ten point deficit after Cobar’s half back Thomas Plater scored his third try, which he converted with just 20 minutes to go, the Bears stormed home, racing in for tries in the 65th, 72nd and 78th minutes, one of which was converted. Add to that a Jack Kelly field goal and the Red and Blacks came away with a 33 to 28 victory that keeps them well and truly in the hunt for a semi-final berth at the halfway mark in the competition.
The win also sets up an enticing Round 8 clash against Coonabarabran at Coonabarabran, with the Unicorns currently sitting in second position on the ladder, having experienced only one loss so far in the competition.
They continued their good form when they got over the top of the Dunedoo Swans at Dunedoo on Saturday. They led 24 to 14 at half time, but a converted try to the Swans after the break saw the Unicorns click into gear and they went on to score four unanswered tries, all converted, to take the game 48 to 20.
In the battle of the dogs played
out at Gulgong’s Billy Dunn Oval, the Bull Terriers won a hardfought battle with the Warren Bulldogs who put in a spirited effort in the second half of the game after trailing 26 to 6 when the sides trooped off with 40 minutes elapsed.
The visitors came out firing and had trimmed 12 points off the lead to make the score 26 to 18, before Gulgong stemmed the flow with a try themselves to have the scoreboard reading 30 to 18 in their favour.
However, the Bulldogs were not going away and, led by a three-try effort to their lock Elias Kennedy, it was most certainly a matter of ‘game on’ but, in the end, they went down 36 to 30.
After a couple of impressive efforts over the past two weeks, the Bulldogs will be looking forward to hosting Dunedoo next Saturday as they search for their first win for the season.
At Baradine the Narromine Jets kept the Magpies winless and scoreless when they notched up 64 points to register a big win.
Apart from the games at Coonabarabran and Warren, the Boronia Cup Challenge game between the Coolah Kangaroos and the Gulgong Bull Terriers shapes as an entertaining affair, and whilst the Roos have swept all before them so far this season, the third placed Gulgong outfit has plenty to gain if they can upset the home side and come away with the prized silverware as well as the highly valued competition points.
Coolah V Gulgong (Boronia Cup Challenge), Coonabarabran V Coonamble, Warren V Dunedoo, Cobar V Baradine, Narromine V Gilgandra (Jess Skinner Cup Challenge). Check club socials and local media to confirm game times.
THOUGH the weather was a little dreary last Sunday, June 15, still 35 bowlers turned out to enjoy their morning of bowls at Sporties.
The team of Ken Whittaker, Roger Sherwin, and Phil Knight won the day with 21 shots from Mary Perry, Pat
Ryan, and Graham Ross on eight shots.
On Rink 13 Chris Castlehouse, playing swinger, Gayle Teale, and Col Cottee took second place with 19 shots from Chris Castlehouse, Ruby Stockings, and Rob Pfieffer on eight shots.
Taking out third place with a new player, Howard Court, Cheryl Storch, and
Matt Quill with 18 shots to seven from the team of Tracey Keenan, Vicky Hummell, and Greg Brown
A small margin of only five shots separated the team of Ros Joseph, Terese Gaio, and Alan Stratford on 19 shots from Ron McCauley, John Kennedy and Brian Jones on 14 shots.
Rink 11 saw the team of
Leo Balstad, Jenny Spratt, and Bryan O’Sullivan take their win with 16 shots from Dick Whiteford, Frank Armstrong, and Ross Pharo on 15 shots, a very close call with only one shot separating the teams
On rink 12, a dead heat with 15 shots from the both teams of Sue McCauley, Peter Collins, and Gaye Cot-
tee versus Di Hildebrandt, Helen Emblem, and Colin Teale.
Resters for the day were won by the husband and wife team of Gaye and Col Cottee, and Mary Perry, while Jenny Spratt, Bryan O’Sullivan, and John Kennedy scored the lucky numbers
Welcome to our new play-
er Howard Court. We hope he continues to enjoy RSL Combination Sunday morning bowls.
As always, new and casual players are most welcome and can contact Graham Ross on 0419 248 520 or Sporties Club on 5820 0380 from 8am on the Sunday. Players names to be in by 9am for a 9.30 start please.
Super Tag kicks off at 10:15am, followed by League Tag, U18s, Reserve Grade and First Grade
Coonabarabran had a 48-20 win over Dunedoo on Saturday. PHOTOS: PETER SHERWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY AND FRAMING
Dubbo hosts Orange City in Ladies Saturday Rugby
By KEN SMITH
Dubbo Roos played Orange City at Victoria Park Number 1 Oval on Saturday, June 14. Our photo coverage comes from the women’s game, including a spectacular try for Dubbo!
Under-10s Walla Gala Day at Victoria Park
By JONATHAN ROE
Orange City Life made the trip to Dubbo on Sunday, June 15, to catch some of the junior rugby action from Under-10s Walla Gala Day hosted by the Dubbo Junior Rugby Club at Victoria Park. Our photos are of the Dubbo Rebels taking on Orange Emus Black.
Croquet meets the challenge of winter
Contributed by “SOUTH STAKE”
WE have yet to see a frost, but temperatures, rain and cold winds have presented challenges to the players of Dubbo Croquet Club.
Tuesday of last week was grim and yet a dozen members turned out for the morning of Golf Croquet. This proves two things. Firstly, croquet players are at least as crazy as other rabid adherents to their respective pastimes, and, secondly, the courts drain very quickly, and were playable despite the overnight rain.
Sunday, on the other hand, defeated everyone. Here’s to next week being kinder and gentler.
Singles’ play on Wednesday gave the extraordinary results that all games went to 7-5, except for the final play-off between Tracey Keenan and Kate Colwell which finished at 7-3.
I am starting to entertain serious concerns for Graham Bender’s play: not only did Kate take a win against him recently, but now so did Tracey!
On Thursday, Ben Vang played an exceptional game of Aussie croquet against Carol Willcockson and Charles Campbell. He was struggling to make the fourth hoop with both balls while his opponents were setting up to taking hoops five (at that point it was unmissable) and six (two hits needed, maximum) respectively, and he still was able to win!
Despite this dire situation, he was able to accurately and strategically place blue and black for maximum impact to hit away his opponents’ balls and then double back to run his hoops. A tense final stage of play saw him peg out both balls before his opponents were able to make even one.
Truly, this is a game where
one can snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.
Not only was the weather clear but the skies were cloudless, the temperature mild, and there was a welcome absence of the chilly winds that we’ve had lately.
Carol Willcockson was a standout player last week, and was equalled this week by Ruth McKenzie. Here’s a memory that Ruth has banked: hoop three was run leaving her ball, next in play, in front of the hoop. Wonderfully, her hit delivered the ball clear to hoop four and cleared it smoothly! It seems that these two are vying for the Most Improved Award for 2025.
For the coming week, Kevin McGlynn will be conducting workshops for our Level I coaches progressing to Level II, and for five players fronting up their Level I badge.
“I just want to play croquet.”
EXCITING FINAL IN OPEN GENDER PAIRS’ MINOR CHAMPIONSHIP
By WEST DUBBO BOWLS
Club Championships
The Open Gender Pairs’ Minor Championship was decided last weekend.
In an exciting final that had the ‘window tappers’ on edge, John Zeb and Bill Van Der Mey came away over the last 3 ends to defeat the gallant pairing of Pam Dawson and Gai Morrison, 18 shots to 12.
In earlier semi-finals, John and Bill had too many guns for Robert Edwards and Averial Cox, whilst Pam and gai upset pre-championship favourites, Steve Robinson and Luke Gilholme.
The Women’s and Men’s Minor Singles Championships begin this weekend.
Men Saturday 10.00am: D Morris v W Van Der Mey; L Peirce v N Blandford
Men Saturday 1.00pm: Winner (Morris/Van Der Mey) v A Harper; L Gilholme v J Mackenzie; Winner (Peirce/Blandford) v J Silk; C Dart v S Robinson
Women Sunday 10.00am: G Morrison v T Morris; A Beecroft v P Dawson
Women Sunday 1.00pm: Winner (Morrison/Morris) v H Bry-
an; M Ney v K Dart; Winner (Beecroft/Dawson) v D Brown; B Margery v A Cox
The semi-finals and finals of both these championships will be held on Sunday, July 20. Players need to check the noticeboard, which is in the new locker room, for full details.
State Pennants
The club’s Number 1 Pennant side is hard at work, practising for the State Open Finals at Ettalong at the end of June. West Dubbo has drawn Grandviews, Gunnedah and Corrimal in their sectional play-offs.
Tournaments
The $8000 Open Prelude Fours tournament will be held on Saturday, July 19. The winning team gets a free entry into the $150,000 City of Dubbo International Fours in September. All enquiries can be made through the club’s fashionable bowls’ manager Anthony Brown.
Social Bowls
Last Wednesday, Hela Bryan and Helen Davis survived a countback to take home the major end of the money on offer. They edged out Tony Leonard,
John Davis Jr and Roger Braintree. Coming home in third place were June Madden, Beryl Phillips and Judy Cassidy. Gai Morrison took home the sizeable Lucky Draw cash.
Tony Leonard and John Davis were too classy for the field last Friday, winning from Jess Gibson, Warren Brown and Bill Abbott. Tony Leonard’s day was made when he won the Lucky Draw money
On Sunday morning, Blue’s Meats’ trays and mystery prizes were again on offer. Mary Ney and Leanne Erwin won first prize, each taking home a large meat tray. Runners up on a countback were Steve Evans, John Davis and Mick Smith. All players were on the edges of their seats awaiting the mystery draws. These were won by Ros Gilholme, John Fardell, Steve Evans and Rick See.
Club Activities
Club members Deb Morrow, Kelly Dart, Cooper Dart, Gavin Dart and Anthony Brown are at present at the Gold Coast, contesting the Australian Open Championships against the best players in the country. We hope
to have results of their efforts in next week’s bowls’ news.
West Dubbo bowling membership fees are now due for the upcoming bowling calendar year. Our members will be pleased to know that they will remain the same for the next 12 month –$20 for men and women, and $10 for juniors. This represents great value in the current economic climate.
Thursday, Friday and Sunday nights’ popular meat, fruit and vegetable raffles continue to draw large crowds. This Thursday night’s members’ badge draw is $2000, and on Friday, the badge draw stands at $6000.
Coming Up
Junior tournament – Thursday, July 10
Bowls NSW 7-a-Side Championships – Saturday and Sunday, July 12 and 13
$8000 Prelude Fours tournament – Saturday, July 19
Men/Women Minor Singles Championships Finals – Sunday, July 20
Thought for the Week: ‘Minds are like parachutes. They only function when they are open.’
(Thomas Dewar)
FROST AND FOG DIDN’T STOP THE DUCKS
THE heated waters of the duck pond at Dubbo RSL hosted 15 ducks and drakes and ducklings who made their way through the frost and fog blanketing the district on Sunday morning, June 15.
Little did they know their chests would be given such a workout, with three of the four events including Breaststroke.
The formidable Marg Ross, back from cruising the high seas, set a cracking pace at the desk and everyone dived in for the 25m Freestyle.
Sparkes were flying in the final with David arriving first, Warren Williams continuing his form second, Brian Schloeffel and Jacob Pearce a dead heat for third.
Brian Schloeffel and Amy Barling broke in the Backstroke/ Breaststroke 2x25m relay, being way too fast giving 1st to Judy Walsh and Mal Cavanagh, John Wherritt and Tilly Barling coming in 2nd, Kath O’Rourke and Mark Prentice rounding out the three.
Brian Schloeffel (46) and Matilda Barling (41) took out the lucky numbers. Big thanks to Greg Salmon, Nicole Johnstone and Peter Hargreaves who waded in to help with the official duties.
Judy Walsh was flying in the distance event the 50m Breaststroke giving Mark Scullard 1st, Mal Cavanagh 2nd, Mark Prentice 3rd and Jacob Pearce 4th.
The sun now shining through the windows, 25m Breaststroke off Go was the last event of the morning and showing the prowess of the handicapper with all five top spots touching less than a second outside their nominated times. 1st Kath O’Rourke (0.09), 2nd Mark Scullard (0.22), 3rd Brian Schloeffel(0.25), 4th Neil Harris (0.68) and 5th Judy Walsh (0.76).
Looking forward to seeing all drakes, ducks and duckling’s flying low into the duck pond for the best exercise in town on the shortest day of the year.
New members always welcome at the Heated Indoor Pool, Dubbo RSL, 9am Sunday where the warmth of the water, vibe in the air, and dispositions’ of the members are always friendly and inviting!
