Thursday, July 24, 2025
A huge congratulations goes out to the Boorowa Rugby Club on the outstanding success of its recent Ladies Day fundraising.
The Club managed to raise over $30,000 to be split to help locals.
Be sure to read the full story from the Club on the back page of today’s paper.
By REBECCA HEWSON
Mayor Brian Ingram used his Mayoral Minute at the July Ordinary Meeting of Hilltops Council to address the ongoing issue of cost shifting to Councils, specifically, Hilltops Council, following a report that showed the shift is costing ratepayers around $500 per year.
Mayor Ingram said he wanted to raise awareness and advocate for action on the issue.
As part of the Mayoral Minute Mayor Ingram also asked Council to endorse a letter to the NSW Premier, Treasurer and the Minister for Local Government urging immediate action to address cost shifting through regulatory reform and appropriate funding support.
“The financial burden placed on local councils continues to grow, and Hilltops Council is not immune,” Mayor Ingram said.
“The latest Local Government NSW (LGNSW) Cost Shifting report
for 2023/2024 highlights a concern ing trend: councils across NSW are absorbing an increasing number of responsibilities without correspond ing funding from State or Federal Governments.”
The report, released by LGNSW and prepared by independent consultants Morrison Low, showed that Councils have been forced to absorb $1.5 billion in unfunded responsibilities, an increase of $140 million since the 2021/22 report according to Mayor Ingram.
“This equates to an average of $497.40 per ratepayer, up from $460.68 just two years ago,” he said.
“Large rural councils like Hilltops Council are the most acutely affected by cost shifting from State and Federal Government.”
According to the Mayor the report highlighted the cost shift was $571.10 per ratepayer - 14 percent higher than the average across all NSW councils.
“And to compound matters, the greatest increase in cost shift was experienced by large rural councils,
direct impact on our community.
“Every dollar diverted to cover State Government responsibilities is a dollar not spent on local roads, parks, libraries and essential services.”
In his report to Council Mayor Ingram highlighted Hilltops and what the cost shifting means including:
Delays in road maintenance and pothole repairs across towns and villages
Reduced capacity to extend library hours and community programs
Slower progress on vital infrastructure projects such as upgrades to recreation areas and revitalisation of town centres
“Our residents deserve better,”
Mayor Ingram said.
“The November 2024 Parliamentary Inquiry into local government fund-
mendations to note the findings in the report and write to the relevant NSW figures in regards to the issue.
“Hilltops Council stands with other councils across NSW in calling for reform,” he said.
“We must ensure that local government is funded fairly and sus tainability, so we can continue to deliver the services our communities rely on.”
Hilltops Council
Mayor Brian Ingram is urging the State Government to take immediate action on cost-shifting.
Thank you for your involvement with Operation Christmas Child (OCC) in the past.
I would like to invite you to join us to celebrate the work God is doing at an OCC Celebration Event!
Through inspiring stories and ministry updates, you’ll see how God is transforming the lives of needy children, families, churches, and their communities.
These events provide a variety of ways for you to connect, interact, bring others along, learn about different areas of the ministry and gather ideas and resources to use in your participation.
FREE EVENTS - Morning Tea provided
Speaker – Rick George - Regional Ministry Leader - NSW/ACT OCC Celebration
Cowra : Friday 1 August 2025 | 10am –12pm | Abundant Life, Church, 28 Darling Ave, Cowra NSW 2794
Orange : Saturday 2 August 2025 | 10am – 12pm | Kenna Hall, 84 Hill St, Orange NSW 2800
Please reply to Lyn Walker 0428699779 for catering numbers.
The Adult Survivors of Child AbuseCowra Support Group meets on the 1st Friday of each month from 12:30 to 14:30 and is open to survivors of all communities. All details online via: heal.itmatters. com.au. Alternatively, call Pascale, the facilitator, on 0458 698 460. Thank you and take great care.
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Hilltops Council is once again asking residents to complete its Customer Satisfaction Survey to obtain feedback on a range of Council services and facilities.
The survey, last conducted in September and October 2024, aims to measure residents’ levels of satisfaction with Council’s performance, understand residents’ views about the importance of different services, and identify opportunities for improvement.
Participants will be asked a series of questions and requested to provide feedback across the full range of Council services.
The survey is part of our commitment to measuring and improving our performance and how we deliver services to our community. It will provide Coun-
cil with data for measuring our progress and provide a benchmark for future comparison.
The Customer Satisfaction Survey will provide community insights on a number of matters including:
Levels of satisfaction with Council’s overall services and facilities
Council’s overall performance
Community priorities for service delivery
Community improvement ideas for Council
The data gathered will be used to develop a report which outlines the aggregated results and trends.
“Council is always looking at ways to improve its services and
review the way we do business to ensure best value for residents and sustainability both now and into the future,” Hilltops Acting General Manager Sarah Karaitiana said.
“This Customer Satisfaction Survey is one tool Council can use to listen to community feedback, track our progress and consider opportunities for future improvement.
“The survey also enables customers to have their say on the services and facilities Council provide.
Last Saturday Harden Murrumburrah Men’s Shed hosted local Rotarian Jim Ryan who shared his experience with prostate cancer.
Jim is well respected in the Harden-Murrumburrah community and spoke about his treat-
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“We ask residents completing the survey to be frank and open as ultimately the information we receive will be used to help inform future priorities and programs.”
Information gathered from the survey will be reported back to Council and used to guide the delivery of future services and improvements.
The survey opens on Monday 21 July 2025 and residents are invited to have their say by completing the survey online at: https://www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/ council/have-your-say/
The survey can also be completed in person at Hilltops Council Offices and Library branches or by assisted telephone call1300 445 586.
The Young Show Society is looking for a new cohort of young women to throw their hat in the ring for the Junior Young Woman competition.
The competition held as part of the Young Show is for young ladies aged between 13 and 17.
The Junior Young Woman competition is a stepping stone in getting local teenage young women involved in the Young Show.
The aim is to find young women who are willing to face new experiences, meet new people and advocate for their future in rural and remote NSW.
Email the youngshowsciety1@gmail.com or go to www.youngshow.com.au for more information and entry forms.
As part of this competition you would be required for a judging luncheon on Saturday September 6, with a dinner to follow.
You will also need to be available on show day, Sunday September 21.
Entries for the 2025 competition close on Monday August 18.
Parent or guardian permission must be given for entrants to participate.
Last year’s Young Woman competition winner Sophie Grainger.
PHOTO: Young Show Society
prostate cancer by the age of 85.
From 2010 to 2020 Jim was a volunteer ambassador who travelled around rural areas to raise awareness about the disease.
The presentation was a fantastic opportunity for locals to learn more about prostate cancer
treatment directly from someone with personal experience.
The event was also an opportunity for locals to learn more about the Men’s Shed which is located at the end of East Street, Harden in the Old Railway Building.
After nearly a decade of community advocacy, the NSW Government has confirmed the demerger of Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council will proceed.
Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke has welcomed the NSW Government’s decision to bring an end to almost a decade of uncertainty and community campaigning.
“This decision belongs to the community and reflects their strength, determination, and refusal to give up,” Ms Cooke said.
“I especially want to acknowledge the work of the Gundagai Council in Exile group, who have been fighting this battle since before the merger even happened.
“This is a win for our communities, especially the peo-
ple of Gundagai, who have fought so hard for so long to regain their independence.”
The demerger follows the release of reports from the NSW Local Government Boundaries Commission and a Public Inquiry, clearing the way for two independent councils to be re-established.
“Had I been the local member at the time of the merger, I would have fought tooth and nail against it,” Ms Cooke said.
“Since being elected, I’ve worked every day with our communities, with Council and with Mayor Abb McAlister to get this outcome.”
Ms Cooke thanked Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig for his willingness to listen and for finding a legislative pathway forward.
“This journey has spanned multiple governments and five different local government ministers,” Ms Cooke said.
“Minister Hoenig kept an open door, and I’m grateful he’s backed our communities to lead this transition.”
Mayor Abb McAlister said
Flemings Property Services are excited to announce new leadership appointments for two of their dedicated team members.
Nick Ashe and Rosie Fairfield Smith have both stepped into their new positions with Rosie named the Office Director at Felmings Harden and Nick in the same role in Cootamundra.
Nick and Rosie have both made their mark as successful sales agents, known for their local knowledge, professionalism and outstanding results.
They have also worked in property management in their respective towns, giving them valuable experience and understanding
across both sides of the business.
Their passion for property and commitment to client service have made them invaluable team members and now they are stepping into leadership roles to help guide the Flemings offices into the future.
As office directors, Nick and Rosie will continue to work closely with their clients, mentor their teams and actively support the Harden and Cootamundra communities that they’re so proud to be part of.
Rosie Fairfield Smith from Harden and Nick Ashe from Cootamundra have been promoted to office directors of their local Flemings branches.
PHOTO: Flemings Property Services
Hilltops Council has extended a proposal to the City of Canterbury Bankstown to look into the possibility of forming a City Friendship Agreement with the report presented at the July Ordinary Meeting with the recommendation to enter the intercouncil agreement.
Hilltops Director Corporate and Community Sarah Karaitiana presented the report to Councillors with the recommendation to enter into the Friendship Agreement.
“This initiative was driven by community interest in strengthening ties between the two regions, recognising shared values and opportunities for collaboration,” Ms Karaitiana said.
“Canterbury Bankstown and Hilltops share a rich cultural diversity,
strong community spirit and a com mitment to fostering understand ing and connection across different faiths and backgrounds.”
aims to allow both Councils to acknowl edge the cultural connections between the two areas, readily exchange informa tion that is appropriate and to benefit of one another, and on occasion of visits ex change appropriate gifts in recognition of the agreement.
Hilltops Sister and Friendship City Policy which states that an InterCouncil Friendship Agreement exists primarily to promote greater awareness and understanding between respective regions and cultures within New South Wales, and other Austral-
the announcement marked the end of a long road.
“The communities of the local government area have been fully supportive of our council pushing for a demerger,” Mr McAlister said.
“They’ve been behind us all the way and we finally got it, which is great to see.”
Work now begins on the transition process, with the Council to establish a dedicated office to manage the separation of assets, services, staffing and governance arrangements.
The NSW Government has committed to supporting Council through this next stage.
“There’s still work to do, and we’ll keep working together to make this demerger a success,” Ms Cooke said.
Slater and Gordon Lawyers are urging witnesses to alleged historical child sexual abuse at St Michael’s Regional High School in Wagga Wagga to come forward with any information that may assist survivors of the alleged abuse.
Slater and Gordon Associate in Abuse Law, Deema Dermelkonian, said the firm had commenced proceedings on behalf of one 52-yearold male client and one 40-year-old male client regarding their alleged sexual abuse perpetrated by a former male teacher at St Michael’s.
change Agreement’ for staff exchange.”
As part of the report there was a letter to Mayor Brian Ingram proposing a Friendship Agreement, a formal City Friendship Agreement from Canterbury Bankstown and the Hill-
“We hope this invitation will be received warmly and look forward to your response.”
Hilltops Council already has a Sister City Relationships with Lanzhou in China which was estabilshed in 1997.
“We currently hold instructions from two separate clients who allege they suffered sexual abuse at the hands of a male teacher, with the 52-year-old’s alleged abuse occurring in 1984 and the 40-yearold’s alleged abuse occurring in 1999,” Ms Dermelkonian said.
“These clients were in just year 7 when the alleged abuse began, and it has had a devastating impact on their lives.”
St Michael’s Regional High School was a Catholic boy’s school run by the Christian Brothers before it was taken over by the Diocese of Wagga Wagga in 1996.
“Our clients allege to have suffered sexual abuse at the hands of someone who was meant to guide and support them during a formative time in their lives,” Ms Dermelkonian said.
“School is supposed to be a place where children can be safe, and instead for both of our clients it became the place of deep trauma that has permanently altered the course of their lives.”
Under New South Wales law, there is no longer a time limit on when a survivor of child sexual abuse can bring a claim for compensation, and witnesses may help victims to pursue a claim for damages regardless of how long ago the abuse occurred.
“We believe there could be potential witnesses living in New South Wales or interstate,” Ms Dermelkonian said.
“If you witnessed abuse at St Michael’s Regional High School, please do not hesitate to reach out to Slater and Gordon Lawyers on 1800 565 892.”
Ms Dermelkonian said any information received would be treated confidentially.
NOTIFICATION UNTIL WEEK ENDING THURSDAY 31/07/2025
is available on Council’s website at www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/council/ council-works-and-road-closures/
PUBLIC NOTICE | PUBLIC EXHIBITION OF DRAFT POLICIES (VARIOUS)
Council currently has the following documents and policies on public exhibition:
• Draft Hilltops Customer Service Charter - submissions close 5pm, Thursday 24 July 2025
• Draft Complaints Management Policy – submissions close 5pm, Thursday 24 July 2025
• Draft Managing Unreasonable Complainant Conduct Policy – submissions close 5pm, Thursday 24 July 2025
• Draft Hilltops Heritage Strategy 2025-2028submissions close 5pm, Monday 28 July 2025
• Draft Koorawatha Village Plan 2025 - submissions close 5pm, Monday 28 July 2025
The draft policies can be viewed at www.hilltops.nsw.gov. au/council/have-your-say/ or hard copies are available for viewing by the public at the Council administration offices at Boorowa, Harden and Young.
SUBMISSIONS
Any person may make a written submission to Council by the submissions close date listed after the relevant document or draft policy.
Submissions can be made via www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/ council/have-your-say/ or BY LETTER TO: The General Manager, Locked Bag No. 5, Young NSW 2594. All submissions received will be considered by Council before the final documents are adopted.
COUNCIL TENDER | RFT000039 - SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF
Hilltops Council is seeking tenders from suitably qualified and experienced suppliers for the supply and delivery of quarry materials to various locations across the Hilltops Local Government Area (LGA).
This contract will be established as a panel arrangement, with contractual agreements entered into with a minimum of two (2) contractors, to provide quarry materials on an as-required basis throughout the contract period.
The services to be delivered under this contract include all necessary activities to supply and deliver quarry materials within the Hilltops LGA. The scope of work includes, but is not limited to:
• Production of materials in accordance with the required specifications;
• Sampling and testing of produced materials prior to delivery; and
• Loading and delivery of materials to specified Council sites.
Interested parties are required to register via Council’s E-tendering Portal, Tenderlink, via portal.tenderlink. com/hilltops/ to download the relevant tender documentation.
Should you experience difficulties accessing the above website please call Tenderlink’s helpdesk on 1800 233 533. All enquiries are to be directed through the Tenderlink Forum. Closing date: 12:00pm (AEDT) Wednesday, 6 August 2025
EXPRESSIONS OF
| HILLTOPS COUNCIL BOOROWA SPORTS ADVISORY GROUP.
Hilltops Council would like to invite representatives from suitable sporting bodies in the Boorowa locality to sit on the newly formed Hilltops Council Boorowa Sports Advisory Group.
Interested sporting bodies should nominate one representative for the Boorowa Sports Advisory Group and an alternate. One representative from each sporting body will have voting rights on the Boorowa Sports Advisory Group.
The purpose of the Boorowa Sports Advisory Group is to
provide a forum for the dissemination and consideration of information pertaining to relevant Council strategies; represent the views of local sporting bodies relating to sporting matters; and promote cross-code collaboration between Boorowa’s local sporting bodies to achieve greater utilisation of facilities and fields.
More information, eligibility requirements and an Expression of Interest form are available on Council’s website at www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/council/have-yoursay/
Applicants must also attach a supporting letter with a brief outline of their interest in and capacity to be a member of the Boorowa Sports Advisory Group and a description of relevant skills and experience, including past involvement in sports or community groups. Expressions of Interest are to be received no later than 5pm on Monday 28 July 2025 and can be made via an online form found on Council’s website at www.hilltops. nsw.gov.au/council/have-your-say/; or BY LETTER TO: The General Manager, Locked Bag No. 5, Young NSW 2594.
HILLTOPS
Residents are invited to have their say by completing the 2025 Hilltops Community Satisfaction Survey which is part of our commitment to measuring and improving our performance and how we deliver services to our community.
• Your response will provide Council with data for measuring our progress, provide a benchmark for future comparison and community insights on a number of matters including:
• Levels of satisfaction with Council’s overall services & facilities
• Council’s overall performance
• Community priorities for service delivery
• Community improvement ideas for Council Survey closes 6pm, Sunday 3 August 2025.
Residents are invited to have their say by completing the survey online at www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/council/haveyour-say/ in person at Hilltops Council Offices and Library branches or by assisted telephone call on 1300 445 586.
SEEKING EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST - HILLTOPS ACCESS COMMITTEE (RE-ADVERTISED)
Hilltops Council would like to invite members of the community to nominate for the Hilltops Access Committee (the ‘Committee’). Council is looking to appoint up to ten (10) community members or representatives from our local community in line with the term of Council.
The purpose of the Committee is to provide community representation advice and input to Council on the views, needs and interests of people with disability, their families and carers in the Hilltops Local Government Area; the development, implementation and review of Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan and assist Council to consult and respond to access issues that impact on communities across the Hilltops Local Government Area. SUBMISSIONS
More information, eligibility requirements and an Expression of Interest form are available on Council’s website at www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/council/have-yoursay/
Applicants must also attach a supporting letter demonstrating how your membership would be of benefit to the Committee.
Expressions of Interest can be made via an online form found on Council’s website at www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/ council/have-your-say/; or BY LETTER TO: The General Manager, Locked Bag No. 5, Young NSW 2594.
Application No: DA2025/0121
Applicant: GRAINCORP OPERATIONS LTD
Property: Lot 1 DP 819848, 35 Schillers Rd MILVALE NSW 2594
Proposal: Agricultural Produce Industry Alterations and Additions
Exhibition Dates: 17 July 2025 to 31 July 2025
Submissions Close: Prior to close of business 31 July 2025
The application will be considered under Part 4 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979. Hilltops Council is the consent authority for this application.
In accordance with the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, Development Applications and documents accompanying the applications may be viewed during the exhibition period on Council’s website: www.hilltops.nsw.gov. au.
Any persons may make written submissions on the applications. All submissions may be published in Council’s business papers and viewed by other persons with an interest in the applications. If your comments are an objection, then the grounds of the objection must be specified.
Persons lodging submissions are required to declare reportable political donations (including donations of or more than $1,000) made in the previous two years and up until the determination of the development. For more details including a disclosure form, go to www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au.
Submissions on the proposal must be lodged in writing with Council prior to the close of business on submission close date stated above, in the following manner: - by NSW Planning Portal: www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au; or - By email: submissions@hilltops.nsw.gov.au; or - By post: Locked Bag No. 5, Young NSW 2594.
Submissions may be published in Council’s business papers and viewed by other persons with an interest in the application. All submissions will be made public in accordance with Schedule 1 of the Government Information (Public Access) Regulation 2018.
UNTIL
THURSDAY 31/07/2025
Planned pesticide and herbicide use by Council works crews will be conducted on:
All roads in Hilltops Council - Young, Boorowa and Harden areas; Shire parks, ovals, laneways, cemeteries and some town areas;
• All villages, rest areas, rural tips and reserves; and
• Rural and regional road shoulders.
And may include the use of:
Round Up, Round Up Ultra Max, Wipeout 450, Glyphosate 450, Brush Off, Starane, Basta, Biffo, Sharpen, Striker, Amitrol, Simaganz, Weedmaster, Dicamba, Kamba M, Metsulfuron, Grazon, Primo, MCPA 500, Ken-Met, Taskforce, Para-Trooper, Spraytop, Devour, Verdict, Pyrethrum, Broadstrike and Fusilade;
• Confidor for aphids; Access for wild fruit tree control;
• Various wetters to enhance the effectiveness of chemicals; and
• Naturalure Fruit Fly Bait to target the control of fruit fly.
In accordance with Hilltops Council’s Pesticide Notification Plan, signs and flashing lights will be provided on vehicles applying pesticides. Escort warning vehicles will be used for the 2024/2025 road shoulder program. Signage will be placed to inform the public where required and will remain on-site for 24 hours after spraying.
Road users should exercise extreme caution when passing these vehicles.
Planned pesticide and herbicide use is subject to change due to Council resources and weather conditions.
PLEASE DIRECT ANY ENQUIRIES TO CUSTOMER SERVICES ON 1300 445 586.
By REBECCA HEWSON
IPART are inviting locals to have input into a report on the retail electricity and gas markets in NSW by sharing their experience of new energy products and services.
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) monitors and reports each year on issues such as prices, competition, and household and small business participation in the NSW retail energy markets.
Tribunal member Jonathan Coppel said IPART wants to hear from consumers about their experiences with new energy products and ser vices such as virtual power plants and demand response programs,
whether they have enough information to make choices about using these new products and services, and any emerging issues they wanted to raise for review.
“We want to hear views from a range of stakeholders including households, small businesses, consumer groups, industry associations, retailers and distribution networks so that our report covers all the issues that matter to stakeholders during the energy transition,” Mr Coppel said.
“For several years, electricity and gas prices in NSW have risen faster
“Competition among retailers is important because, when it is working well, it places downward pressure on prices. However, to get these lower prices, consumers need to regularly shop around.”
The Minister for Energy has also asked IPART to report on new energy services including virtual power plants and demand response programs.
These innovations provide new ways for households and small businesses to reduce their energy bills.
“With state and commonwealth incentives available to help house holds and small businesses install batteries, we anticipate a growing number of consumers will join a
virtual power plant and we will look at whether the benefits of these new services are flowing to consumers,”
Mr Coppel said.
“We want to hear from consumers about their experience participating in virtual power plants or demand response programs.
“We also want to hear from retailers about the different virtual power plant and demand response programs they have on offer and the benefits to households and small businesses from using them.”
Submissions to IPART’s Consultation Paper can be made until 22 Au-
Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) has launched a new grants program offering up to $50,000 for community-led initiatives that support mental wellbeing and suicide prevention in the region.
The Murrumbidgee Community Mental Wellbeing and Suicide Prevention Grants 2025 -26 will make grants of between $5,000 to $50,000 available to fund activities and initiatives that support improved mental wellbeing, reduce suicidal behaviours and distress, and strengthen local capacity for suicide prevention.
The rate of deaths by suicide in the Murrumbidgee continues to be higher than both the state and national average.
MPHN’s Suicide Prevention
Lead Emma Bromham said the grants initiative is part of an effort to address the issue by investing in community-led approaches.
Continuing efforts to maintain Lions Lookout have recently focused on further tree planting.
Lion’s members are working to plant native species, ensuring they thrive in harmony with the existing surrounds.
Regular maintenance, including watering, is being carried out to support the healthy growth of the older and newly added trees.
At the recent Lions Club of Young Changeover, leadership was offi-
cially handed to the incoming team, with David Tame taking the helm as President.
Supporting him in the year ahead, Lyn Freudenstein steps into the role of Vice President alongside Greg Whiter as 2nd Vice President.
The club’s financial and administrative duties will be overseen by Treasurer Dennis Foster and Secretary Nancy Whiter, respectively, Marie Tame as Bulletin editor, Phillip Hewson as Lion Tam -
er, and Tail Twister Paul Miller.
For many years of support Paul Miller was awarded Lion of the Year.
Each year, Lions Club shine a light on an individual who gives generously and freely, their time, energy and commitment to their chosen organisations and charities.Among such individuals, Kay McDonald stands out as a beacon of service, compassion, and initiative, earning the esteemed title of Lions Citizen of the Year.
Last year, local Lions members
had the privilege of attending the international convention in Melbourne, an inspiring gathering that fostered global connections.
This year, the event is taking place in Orlando and is currently underway.
For those interested, highlights and snippets can be viewed on Facebook, showcasing the strength, unity, and international reach of the Lions organisation as it continues to make a difference worldwide.
HEATHER MILLER
“Suicide prevention works best when people are given the opportunity to build solutions from within their own community,” Ms Bromham said.
“Our grants are designed to support projects that reflect the strengths, needs and ideas of the local community.
“Whether it’s about building connection, reducing stigma, or improving access to support, we want to hear from people who have practical solutions that can make a positive impact.”
The grants will support community-led activities that are inclusive, informed by lived experience, and tailored to local needs.
Applications are encouraged from a broad range of groups, including local businesses, schools, community and volunteer organisations, sporting and recreational clubs, industry bodies, professional associations, and local councils.
Eligible projects will aim to improve mental wellbeing, strengthen social connection, raise awareness of support, reduce stigma, or build local knowledge.
Preference will be given to initiatives that support groups disproportionately impacted by suicide, including young people, First Nations people, LGBTQIA+ communities, men, multicultural communities, older people, and people experiencing disadvantage or isolation, such as people facing homelessness and veterans.
“Mental wellbeing and suicide prevention is everyone’s business,” Ms Bromham said
“We all have a role to play, and real change begins at the community level.
“By working together, we can save lives.”
For more information, visit mphn.org.au/grants
More than 200 beekeepers have taken part in the final Varroa Mite Management Workshops hosted by the National Varroa Mite Management Program over the weekend.
Staged simultaneously in Ballina, Queensland’s Lockyer Valley and South Perth on Saturday 12 July 2025, the last workshops brought to a conclusion a comprehensive training program spanning 16 months.
NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD) National Varroa Transition to Management Coordinator Tamara Prentice said the Varroa Mite Management Workshops had been a resounding success.
“We set ourselves an ambitious target of delivering 110 physical workshops across the country in just over a year,” Ms Prentice said.
“In total we hosted 121 workshops exceeding our expectations, with almost 8,000 beekeepers joining us to learn about Varroa mite and how together we can protect and grow Australia’s honey and pollinationdependent industries.”
Ms Prentice said the 8,000 beekeepers trained were responsible for the management of more than half of the country’s registered hives.
“To have that support from the
Australian beekeeping community is testament to the passion they hold for the industry and a reflection of the quality of training delivered.
“We thank each and every beekeeper for taking time out to learn about this bee pest and help safeguard our beekeeping industry.”
Varroa Mite Management Workshops commenced in April 2024 following the Transitition to Management annoucement. Workshops covered issues including integrated pest management techniques, pest impacts, record-keeping and treatment options.
Seven Advanced Workshops were also rolled-out aimed at commercial beekeepers. These workshops explored how commercial operators can mitigate the impacts of Varroa on their business operations.
Ms Prentice added the online training and other resources, such as webinars, factsheets and video case studies remain available via the National Varroa Mite Management Program website.
“The transition to management plan places a strong emphasis on building industry resilience and preparedness and increasing beekeeper and industry knowledge,” Ms Prentice said.
“We thank those industry leaders who have shared their experiences with us. We have developed resources based on these, and encourage all beekeepers to take advantage of these learnings in their own battles with the mite.
“Beekeepers can also continue to access the services of Varroa Development Officers who can visit them and provide practical assistance on how to manage Varroa.”
Visit varroa.org.au/onlinetraining to view the full range of free online learning resources available from the National Varroa Mite Management Program.
The Australian Government is seeking input from community and industry stakeholders on the popular On Farm Connectivity Program to ensure it is delivering the best possible outcomes for primary producers through the upcoming third round.
Through over $30 million in rebates provided over the first two rounds, thousands of primary producers have been able to extend connectivity and take advantage of connected machinery and sensor technology.
The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts has commenced public consultation on design aspects of Round 3, ahead of opening applications later this year.
The department is requesting feedback on options to adjust the Program to ensure opportunities are optimised for primary producers to address connectivity gaps, particularly in light of the unprecedented demand in Round 2.
Proposed changes to the Program including refining the scope of equipment eligible for rebate, and streamlining processes by providing rebates directly to primary producers.
The public consultation builds on discussions already underway with state and Commonwealth government agencies and industry representatives, including the National Farmers’ Federation, as well as feedback already received following delivery of the first two rounds.
The Government has allocated $53 million across all three rounds of the Program over 2023-24 to 2025-26, as part of the Government’s Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia.
For more information and to have your say on the proposed changes for Round 3, visit the On Farm Connectivity Program Round 3 consultation page. Consultation closes on Tuesday 26 August 2025.
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Lau Shu Kwai or George Quay as he was also known was described by novelist David Martin as being the ‘trustee of the Chinese community’ after Thomas Ah Geang died in 1902.
Martin had spoken with Quay’s son and daughter-in-law, Herbert and Alma Quay in the early 1970s while researching Lambing Flat.
This description of his high status is borne out in the Chinese language newspapers of Sydney (Tung Wah Times) and Melbourne (Chinese Times) alongside Young’s newspapers and a Swiss music box that his grandson Max donated to the Young Historical Museum.
Popular amongst wealthy families from the 1840s to the 1890s, Swissmade music boxes could play multiple songs on one cylinder.
Quay brought it with him when he migrated to Australia in the 1880s.
In the 1895 Quay purchased land along Spring Creek with Thomas Ah Young and Ah Sing. According to his obituary, he had first set up a grocery store on Burrowa Street and later moved to Main Street.
This was where his store was located when he married Hannah Maude, second daughter of Thomas and Isabella Ah Young of Spring Creek who were ‘old and highly respected residents’ in 1900.
Quay likely came to Australia from the district of Tsang Shing.
Cost shifting from State and Federal Governments to Local Government has been a significant issue for quite some time and is becoming increasingly concerning.
A report on this matter has been included in the July Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda, and I encourage residents to read it and familiarise themselves with this issue.
One area where this is having a significant local impact is biosecurity.
This issue has reached a critical juncture, impacting our ability to effectively manage weed surveillance and management within our community.
Changes under the NSW Weeds Action Program have become the norm since the revision of the NSW Government grant guidelines.
opportunities and a decline in regional collaboration.
Over the past two financial years, these changes have resulted in Councils missing out on essential funding.
Under the previous system, a Regional Coordinator - employed by Local Land Services - regularly met with representatives from each Council.
This fostered collaboration and ensured a fair distribution of funds, with Councils working together in weed surveillance and management within their Local Government Areas.
Previously, our collaboration with Local Land Services ensured equitable funding distribution and strengthened regional cooperation in biosecurity efforts across Councils. However, recent changes have forced Councils to apply for funding individually, leading to missed
One Council, for example, received $17,000 less in the most recent funding cycle alone.
This shortfall directly impacts our ability to plan and carry out critical weed management operations, placing local agriculture and biodiversity at risk.
A major concern is that announcements regarding available funding were made in May - after many Councils had already completed the majority of their weed management programs for the financial year.
Given the extremely tight budgets under which Councils operate, this timing presents
serious challenges, particularly when funds are required earlier for proper planning and execution.
For two consecutive years, the application process has been delayed.
While the process is technically non-competitive, Councils can still apply for funding close to the maximum available within their region.
Unfortunately, this lack of coordination means that funding is not always allocated according to regional priorities or agricultural needs.
Instead, it is based primarily on the potential impact of weed incursions, without adequate consideration for vital industries like agriculture, which rely heavily on effective weed management.
The absence of increased funding for weed management over the past decade, along with rising operational costs, is placing an undue strain on Council resources.
This burden not only undermines our biosecurity efforts but also hinders our ability to meet obligations under the Biosecurity Act.
It is imperative that the State Government acknowledges its responsibility to adequately support Local Councils.
We urge them to review the current funding mechanisms and ensure they are aligned with regional priorities and the needs of our agricultural sector.
DEPUTY MAYOR TONY FLANERY
He is noted as a donor of 2 pounds towards the construction of a school in this district in 1906.
This school was being built in the village of Tong Mei which is probably his home village.
He also donated to the Tung Tsang Loong Yee Tong which was the joint community association in Sydney for people from Tung Kwun and Tsang Shing districts.
His interests in China extended beyond his native district as he was one of the Young Chinese community’s leading donors towards flood-relief in 1908 and 1914, had three shares in Canton’s Kwok Sze Po newspaper, a share subscription for the Canton-Hankow Railway construction project and in 1932 donated in support of the Republic of China during the Sino-Japan War.
He was also interested in the Chinese diaspora in Australia, subscribing to Melbourne’s Chinese Times He was a regular subscriber over the years to Young’s Burrangong Hospital, donated to the building of the Young School of Arts, donated to the building of the new Methodist Church in Young in 1909, and donated sand bags to the local branch of the Red Cross during World War I, amongst other philanthropic activities.
Quay spent the last 11 months of his life living with his son Les and daughter Edna at Bondi, dying at St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney in 1942. Thanks to Ely Finch, historical linguist and translator, for his work on the Chinese Australian newspaper sources.
YOUNG HISTORICAL SOCIETY –KAREN SCHAMBERGER
Saint John the Evangelist Anglican Church You are invited to:
9am Sunday, 10 August 2025 19 Cloete Street, Young ~ ALL WELCOME ~
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE DAY
Church Heritage Display Return of Carter Family WW1 Tribute
Face Painting
I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. Philippians 1:4-5 Worship & Holy Communion Thanksgiving & Praise with Assistant Bishop Vanessa Bennett & Archdeacon Neil Percival Installation of Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Plaque
Facilities Tour Morning Tea & Fellowship
Enquiries: (02) 6382 1811 or stjyoung@bigpond.com
4 Name an item used in weightlifting (7)
8 Which social worker is attached to a hospital (7)
9 To postpone to a future meeting, is to do what (7)
10 Which disease is known as the bends (7)
11 Name another term for a garbage can (7)
12 What is a token, or an indication (6)
14 Name a piece of photographic apparatus (6)
18 Which number is one thousand times one thousand (7)
21 What is used for preventive inoculation (7)
22 What is the official proving of a will as authentic (7)
23 To be staggering, is to be doing what (7)
24 Name the final course of a meal (7)
DOWN
1 What is the dead body of an animal (7)
2 Which term describes the boundary of something (5)
3 Name the loss of the sense of smell (7)
4 Which spirit is distilled from the fermented juice of grapes (6)
5 What, in India, are kings or princes called (5)
6 To be free from variations, is to be what (7)
7 Which fabric is woven from flax yarns (5)
13 Name an alternative term for a scaffold (7)
15 What are Parisian gangsters called (7)
16 Which term relates to a large allotment of rural land (7)
Letters
Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
17 To turn upside down, is to do what (6)
18 What is a light, lowpowered motorcycle, equipped with pedals (5)
19 To be angry, is to be what (5)
20 Name some flightless birds of New Zealand (5)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
1
(a)
(b)
(c)
2
(a)
(b) Sympathetic (c)
Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.
CLUES:
Before (poet.) (3)
Corundum mix for grinding (5)
Equals (5)
Made a mistake (5)
Propose: ... the question (3)
Small printers’ measures (3)
State of great suffering (7)
Time period (3)
Top quality (5)
Mid-19th century war (7)
6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House
6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Grantchester. 1.15 Patience. 2.05 All Creatures Great And Small. 2.55 Great Southern Landscapes. 3.25 Earth. 4.25 Spicks And Specks. 4.55 Dr Ann’s Secret Lives. 5.30 Landline. 6.00 Australian Story. 6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Grantchester. 8.20
6.00 Shopping. 8.30 Better Homes. 11.00 Harry’s Practice. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Room For Improvement.
12.30 Last Chance Learners. 1.00 Better Homes. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 5.00 Slow Train Through Africa. 6.00 Every Bite Takes You Home. 6.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 1.30 Late Programs.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Industry Celebration Day, Caulfield Season Finale and Saturday Raceday. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Great Outdoors. 7.30 Mysteries Of The Pyramids. New. 8.30 MOVIE: The Da Vinci Code. (2006) Tom Hanks, Audrey Tautou, Ian McKellen. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Blokesworld. 1.30 Teeing Off With Daisy Thomas. 2.00 Seven’s Motorsport Classic. 2.30 Motor Racing. Shannons SpeedSeries. Round 4. Day 1. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 Pawn Stars. 9.30 American Pickers. 10.30 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. NZ Warriors v Titans. 2.30 NRLW Wrap. 3.15 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Roosters v Canterbury Bulldogs. 5.00 News. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 Rugby Union. British & Irish Lions Tour. Aust v British & Irish Lions. 10.00 Test Rugby: Australia v British & Irish Lions Post-Match. 10.15 MOVIE: Creed. (2015) 12.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 The Big Adventure. 12.30 Wife Swap Australia. 1.55 My Ireland With Colin. 2.55 Black-ish. 3.25 America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League. 5.25 MOVIE: Spies In Disguise. (2019) 7.30 MOVIE: Under The Tuscan Sun. (2003) 9.45 MOVIE: Charlie’s Angels. (2000) 11.45 Late Programs.
Gringo.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.10 Good Chef Bad Chef. 12.30 The Brighter Side: Save. Grow. Dream. 1.00 Buy To Build. 1.30 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures. 2.30 All 4 Adventure. 3.30 Farm To Fork. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 Everyday Gourmet With
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.35 Heartbreak High. 3.25 A Bite To Eat. 3.55 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Car S.O.S. 6.15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 7.05 House Of Games. 7.35 QI. 8.05 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 8.55 Wil Anderson: Wilogical. 9.55 Extras. 10.55 ER. 11.40 Late Programs. 6.00
Junior. 5.10 Octonauts: Over Under Adv. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. Return. 8.00 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.40 Chopped Jnr. 9.20 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.05 Speechless. 10.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Eels v Knights. 1.30 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Dragons v Broncos. 3.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 21. Canterbury Bulldogs v Manly Sea Eagles. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 The Block. Return. 8.55 60 Minutes. 10.00 World Aquatics Championships. Singapore 2025. Day 1. Finals. 11.00 9News Late. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 MOVIE: The Ghost Of St. Michael’s. (1941) 2.15 MOVIE: The Pride And The Passion. (1957) 5.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 4. North Queensland Cowboys v Canberra Raiders. 7.00 Keeping Up Appearances. 7.30 MOVIE: Bride Wars. (2009) 9.20 MOVIE: Sex And The City 2. (2010) 12.20 Late Programs.
10.30 Vicar Of Dibley. 11.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 Aussie Mates, Their Lawns & Barbies. 12.00 The Fishing Show By AFN. 1.00 Fishing Addiction. 2.00 Fish’n Mates. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 20. St Kilda v Melbourne. 6.00 The Wash Up. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: Taken 3. (2014) 10.45 MOVIE: Battleship. (2012) 1.25 Late Programs.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A misunderstanding tests the temperament of the sometimes headstrong Aries. But instead of blowing your top, take time for a pleasant diversion while things cool down.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) A workplace problem could make the divine Bovine see red, but talk it out before you consider walking out. Some surprising facts emerge that could change your earlier focus.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) You face a choice between ignoring your uneasy feelings about your relationship with a special person and demanding explanations. A close friend offers wise counsel.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A change you’d been hoping for carries an unexpected complication. Stay the course, and things will work themselves out. Also, be sure to make time for family and friends.
6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 10.15 Behave Yourself. 11.15 America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League. 1.20 Home And Away. 4.00 Dancing With The Stars. 5.30 Gold Coast Ocean Rescue. 6.00 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 7.00 MOVIE: The Proposal. (2009) 9.20 MOVIE: Made Of Honor. (2008) 11.25 Bones. 12.25 Lie To Me. 1.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 10 Minute Kitchen. 11.00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield. 11.30 Cook With Luke. 12.00 MasterChef Australia. 1.10 Good Chef Bad Chef. 1.30 Charming
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.30 Getaway. 3.00 Are You Being Served? 3.30 MOVIE: Khartoum. (1966) 6.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 4. Cronulla Sharks v Wests Tigers. 8.00 M*A*S*H. 9.00 World Aquatics Championships. Singapore 2025. Day 1. Finals. 10.00 TBA. 12.00 Late Programs.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) Aspects favor spending time with loved ones. On the job, new ideas are generally welcomed, but some demands for changes could cause problems. Be ready to defend your choices.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Good news: A workplace problem is close to being resolved with results that should please everyone. Take time off to indulge in your love of fun and games.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Most of the time, you are the most unflappable person around. But be ready to be thrown offbalance in the nicest way when Cupid takes aim in your direction.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) It’s not often when someone tries to “sting” the sharp-witted Scorpion, but it can happen. Continue to be skeptical about anything that seems too good to be true.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Your strong sense of self-esteem helps you serve as a role model for someone who needs personal reassurances. Your efforts pay off in an unexpected way.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Someone close considers revealing a painful secret. Withhold judgment. Instead, open your generous heart and offer dollops of your love and understanding.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Your talents as a peacemaker are called upon once more as an old problem reemerges with new complications. Move cautiously to avoid falling into hidden traps.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Your artistic side is enhanced with the reception given to your new project. Use this success as encouragement toward fulfilling your larger goals.
Over the past two weeks, the Victoria Street Recycling Centre in Young has experienced a significant increase in contamination according to Hilltops Council.
In a statement posted on social media Council said the contamination included:
General household waste
Used needles/syringes
Dead animals
“This centre is operated by the Elouera Association, and all recycling is hand-sorted by their dedicated staff,” Council said.
“These recent contaminants pose serious health and safety risks to workers and damage the effectiveness of our recycling system.”
Council is asking the public to please DO NOT place general waste, hazardous items, or biological materials in the recycling bins and to dispose of waste correctly.
Go to the Recycling & Resource Recovery section at https://www.hilltops.nsw.gov. au/services/waste-servicesrecycling/ for a comprehensive list of what goes in what bin.
“Let’s protect our workers and do the right thing for our environment,” Council said.
condemned the contamination and called for locals to take the time and do the right thing.
“ Very sad, it’s more than feral, it’s a total disrespect for everyone,” one local commented.
“There is no excuse, no matter how self entitled you think you might be.”
Another anonymous member commented on their experience while working in the plant.
In the local community groups the majority of residents all
“I’ve assisted on the belt where (dog waste) came through getting squashed into the belt,” they said.
“It was pretty horrific, also
Proposed Road Disposal Section 152D Roads Act 1993
In accordance with section 152D of the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given of the proposed sale of the Crown public roads listed in Schedule 1.
If a sale proceeds, the road(s) will cease to be a public road upon transfer of the road to freehold land in accordance with section 152H of the Act. Schedule 1: • Crown roads at Frogmore, adjoining north of Lot 108 DP754100 being the property south of 190 Gentle Destiny Road. (File Ref: 17/01472, Cluster: 678788)
All interested persons are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal to Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure – Crown Lands, PO Box 2215, DANGAR NSW 2309 within twenty-eight (28) days of the date of this advertisement.
Any person is entitled to make submissions with respect to the sale or disposal of the road. Please note that submissions may be referred to third parties (such as council or the applicant) for consideration in accordance with the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 For the Manager, Divestments
For further enquiries please visit the website roads.crownland.nsw.gov.au or contact Mandy Ade by email at mandy.ade@crownland.nsw.gov.au or on (02) 6640 3923 quoting file references above. LT0623
unopened chicken products, dirty nappies...if in doubt, throw it out.
“It’s not fair on the staff (clients) who work there.”
Another commentor wrote that it’s not hard to sort waste from recycling, ‘same as it’s not hard to throw rubbish into a garbage bin and not just on the ground.’
According to the Elouera Association, who run the Young Recycling Facility, website items that can be recycled include:
Glass bottles
Plastic drink bottles
Glass jars
Paper
Plastic containers
Aluminium cans
Plastic milk bottles
Tin cans
Cardboard
Scrap metal that is dropped to the depot
To find out more about what products can and cannot be recycled, also how to prepare products to be recycled please visit the Hilltops Council website or visit the Elouera Association website where there is a list of what can be recycled at https:// elouera-association.com/ elouera-recycling/.
Hilltops Businesses – You’re Invited! Come along to our upcoming workshops showcasing the new Hilltops LGA Regional Website.
Our workshops will demonstrate the new website’s functionality and show you how it can help promote your business.
Free Business Listing Included
Every attendee will receive a free business listing set up with professional assistance which will be connected to the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW), giving your business broader exposure across multiple tourism platforms.
What You’ll Learn
You can learn how to profile your business on the new platform.
Understand the mobile-friendly features that will reach more visitors.
How ATDW Integration Expands Your Marketing Reach across NSW and Australia.
Online Session – Thursday 7 August at 11am.
For those who can’t attend in person. This session will also be recorded and made available online afterwards.
Spaces are limited – for more information and to register email vic@hilltops.nsw.gov.
au
Let’s put Hilltops on the map together!
Young - Council Chambers - Wednesday 23 July, 11am
Harden - Barnes Store EmporiumThursday 31 July, 10am
Jugiong - The Sir George - Thursday July 31, 2pm
Boorowa - Boorowa Bakery - Wednesday 6 August, 8am
Online - Thursday August 7, 11am - email for a Teams invite at vic@hilltops.nsw.gov. au.
Please email the above to register interest.
SHEA, Francis Gerard “Gerard”.
The death has occurred of Mr Francis Gerard Shea better known as Gerard. Late of Templemore Street, Young. Passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 21, 2025 at the Bowral and District Hospital.
Much loved husband of Kerry. Devoted father and father-in-law of Matt and Sam, Chris and Renae, and Phil. Adored Pop of Aidan, Oliver, Flynn, Layla and Calvin. Sadly missed by all extended family and friends.
Aged 79 years. Rest in peace.
A Catholic Mass to celebrate Gerard’s life will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2025 at St Mary’s Catholic Church Young, commencing at 11am. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Following the Mass, Gerard will be taken for private cremation.
For those unable to attend Gerard’s service, it will be viewable via the livestream link on the Patterson Brothers Funerals website.
Patterson Brothers Funerals 95 Main Street, Young N.S.W 02 6382 5217 pattersonbrothersfunerals.com.au
By ANNABEL CUSACK
It was a dominant weekend for the Young Lions Soccer Club, with three of their four teams securing impressive victories in Round 11 of the 2025 Home and Away season.
The Youth U18 side kicked off Saturday with a commanding 7–0 win over Tolland FC at Rawlings Park.
The Lions showed their class across the park, controlling possession and piling on the goals in a clinical performance.
The 2nd Grade Men (Gardiner Shield) team couldn’t replicate the result, going down 2–0 to Tolland FC in the 3pm match.
The 1st Grade Men (Pascoe Cup) bounced back in the late fixture, defeating Tolland FC 3–1 in an intense encounter.
Rhys Lacey was named Player of the Match for his efforts in a strong all-round team performance that saw Young pull away in the second half.
On Sunday, the Young Lions Women (Leonard Cup) enjoyed a 3–0 victory over the Cootamundra
Strikers at Hall Bros Oval.
The home side controlled the match and comfortably secured the three points, rounding out a successful weekend for the club.
Looking ahead to Round 12, all three men’s teams will travel to Hanwood on Saturday 26 July.
The Youth U18s will kick off the day at 1pm, followed by the 2nd
Tuesday’s social game was won by Terry Casey with 34 nett. Next best Lindsay Sheather with 36 nett.
Terry Casey was Thursday’s stroke event winner with 60 nett on a countback from John Gibbons.
Lindsay Sheather had one gobble.
Sunday was a two person Ambrose.
The winners were Terry Casey and Justin Sheather with 52 1/4. Runner up was Lindsay Sheather and David Jasprizza on 56 1/2.
Bridies went to Michael Comellan and Liam Tonks, Terry and Justin and Lindsay and David.
Terry and Justin also had five birdie gobbles.
Was nice to see Nigel again, hope you are feeling much better.
Grade at 3pm and the 1st Grade at 5pm, all at Hanwood 1.
The Women’s team will return to Hall Bros Oval on Sunday 27 July, hosting Hanwood at 12 noon.
Thadem is back fighting fit after his holidaying in the warmer climate.
Sponsor of the week Adam Jasprizza Electrical.
- VERA McMILLAN
By REBECCA HEWSON
It was a huge win for the Boorowa Goldies over the West Wyalong Weevils at Boorowa Rugby Club last weekend with the Goldies taking a lockout 92-0.
In what was a very one sided game the Goldies crossed the line for a massive 14 tries and 11 conversions, proving why they are currently sitting at the top of the South West Cup table.
Tries for the Goldies were made by Sloane x 2, Johnson x 2, McGrath x 2, Chudleigh, Hick x 2, Pye, Berry,
Poplin, Salmon and Carmody with Josh Carmody converting eight and Liam Salmon converted three.
In the other local game played on the weekend, despite the fierce rivalry between the Young Yabbies and the Harden Red Devils, the Devils managed to use the home ground advantage to out do the Yabbs, securing the win 33-7.
Tries for the Red Devils were made by Alcorn, Jeremy Martin, FairfieldSmith, McGeoch and one other player with Glover converting four.
The single try for the Yabs was made by Aidan Kain with Liam
Miller converting for the green and white.
In the other games across the competition the Cootamundra Tri Colours were too good for the Grenfell Panthers outclassing them 40-7, the Condobolin Rams hosted the Temora Tuskers and solidly took the win 40-5.
This weekend the Tuskers will host the Panthers at Temora, the Weevils will face off against the Condo Rams at West Wyalong, the top of the table clash between the Goldies and the Red Devils will be held at Boorowa Rugby Club ahead
of their Tweed and Skivvies night and the Yabbies will host the Tri Colours at Cranfield Oval in Young.
Kick off for all games will be 3.15pm.
This weekend is the final round of the competition ahead of the semifinals with Boorowa Goldies, Harden Red Devils, Cootamundra Tri Colours and Young Yabbies making up the top four of the ladder heading into the final round of the normal competition.
In the Women’s Xs the Yabbiettes had a bye over the weekend, however the Goldies took a hit on the road to the semis going down to
the top of the ladder West Wyalong Redbacks 10-73.
Tries for the Goldies were made by Collins and Anderson.
Well done to both the Goldies and the Yabbiettes on what has been a hard fought season against some top class competition.
By way of introduction in the past week the young Croquet Club has welcomed Penny and Kevin from Morwell Croquet Club in the Latrobe Valley in Victoria,
Their exciting venture started mid-June when they packed themselves up along with their cat and hit the road in their caravan.
On speaking with Penny she informed me that she has been playing croquet since 2018 and is currently president of the Morwell Club and has also been a member of the Victoria Croquet Squad for the past three years.
Penny plays of a handicap of four, Keven joined the ranks 18 months ago after spending some years languishing the bowling greens.
He has been a good student and continues to rise through the ranks. He is already playing off an eight.
In watching Keven play I can assure you it will not be long before his handicap will be in single figures.
Keven retired 10 years ago after 35 years in the power industry, while Penny spent most of her working life in aged care.
Both Penny and Kevin enjoy playing in tournaments and have both been quite successful.
This very motivated couple like to go to new clubs and meet new people. They thoroughly enjoy the experiences and hope to keep doing so for time to come.
Penny and Kevin have really en-
joyed their time while playing croquet at the Young courts. Because the play was keen the courts are in top condition. They were made very welcome and hope to be accepted into the well known tournaments at Young at some time.
While on their visit Penny and Kevin gave the Hilltops region a good going over, all with excellent reports from the pair.
So today we say goodbye to the new friends we have made as they continue on their way.
They are next off to Cowra, maybe for a game of croquet, before heading to Orange and on to the coast working their way up to play in the big tournament at Sawtell and back down to Deniliquin then home untill their next venture.
Thank you for your story, From the noticeboard: Club singles under way.
AGM meeting 20/8 with nominations seven days prior.
Social play is on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10am and Sunday at 1pm.
Coming up this weekend the Tuskers will face off against the Grenfell Pink Panthers at Temora Recreation Ground, while the Yabbies have now finished their season with no Cootamundra side in the competition.
The Boorowa Rovers took a huge step towards a semi final birth and possibly a top three spot when they scored a 32-28 victory over arch rivals, the Harden Hawks on Saturday afternoon.
In a bizarre game, the Rovers led early 12-0 but then trailed at halftime by 24-12.
After halftime, another dramatic momentum swing saw the Rovers score 20 unanswered points to lead 32-24 before Harden crossed late to make the final score 32-28.
The win will see Boorowa just one win off the competition lead with five games to play.
Next week is another huge game against Binalong who will be desperate for a win to hang to keep their semi final chances alive.
This competition is very even and there will be more twists and turns to come as we head to the pointy end of the season.
Thanks to the tremendous supporters who attended today and we hope to see you back at the showground next Saturday arvo.
50 games and going strong!
Congratulations to one of our coaches, Cooper Cross on this milestone with the Rovers.
Three teams from Young were competing in the opening rounds of the Region Fours Championship over the weekend.
Jonathon Watson, Brian Madden, David Quigley and Damien Miller were playing in the Men’s Fours at Wagga RSL.
They received a forfeit from Sean Smith’s team from Junee in their first–round game.
On Sunday morning they defeated the Wagga RSL team of Matt McComber, Joshua Annetts, Heath Walker and Brett White 18–14.
On Sunday afternoon they had a 19–15 win over the Wagga Rules team of Darren Conroy, Glen Fahey, Harrison Conroy and Ian Whybrow.
They have qualified for the final to be played at Narrandera on Sunday.
Unfortunately, the results for the other qualifying games that were played at Leeton are not available.
On Sunday morning at Temora Glen Seward, Geoff Holt,
Graeme Edgerton and Peter Watts won their first–round game of the Men’s Senior Fours over a Leeton team by 18 to 16.
In the afternoon they lost 17–24 to Wayne Foote, Bill Robertson, Trevor Firman and Bruce Lack from Temora.
Also at Temora the Women’s Senior Fours team of Elsie Hines, Heather Bailey, Jill Rosen and Margaret Gailey had a close 18–17 win of J Bell’s team from Leeton and District in their first game.
They lost their second–round game 17–26 to A Leonard’s team from Wagga Rules.
At Young on Saturday there were three games of pairs played.
The winning teams and their scores were Albert Carter and Colin Chapman 19–10, Darryle Miller and Denis Rosen 26–11 and Brian Christie and Greg Woods 38–4.
There were 12 players involved on Thursday afternoon and the vouchers for the af-
ternoon went to Albert Carter and Chris Wright.
Players are reminded that there is information on the notice board concerning a qualifying round of the BPL Cup to be played at Young on Sunday 3rd August.
Entry details for the Region Triples Championships are now on display.
Entries should be made at the club and close on 31st July.
An entry form for the 2025 President’s Day for the Men’s Bowling Club is on the notice board and entries can be made as a team of four or as individual players.
Thanks to those people who purchased tickets in the raffle for electrical goods that was held to help defray the expenses of the Grade 6 Pennant side’s trip to Newcastle.
The raffle was drawn on Thursday afternoon and the three prize-winners were Gary Quinn, Tom Preston and Chris Wright.
On Wednesday, at Weethalle, Liz and Justine won the A Grade Scratch Div with a score of 78 (net 70).
On Thursday at Ariah Park, Cathy and Estelle won the A Grade Nett with a score of 65.
Once again Liz and Justine were the A Grade Scratch with 78 (nett 68).
Liz and Cathy also won NTP’s. Well played, ladies!
On Wednesday 16th, the ladies played a Single Stableford.
Winners on the day:
Mylan Davidson 36 pts and Sandra Holmes 35 pts.
NTP’s –
7th B Grade sponsored by Elegant Timbers, Shutters and Blinds –Camille Carberry
Ball winners: Mylan 36 pts 4, Sandra 35 pts 3, Camille Carberry 33 pts 2, on a c/b from Chris Keevil 33 pts, Cathy Marshall 32 pts, Carolyn Shaw 29 pts, Amber Roles 29 pts and Michele Blizzard 29 pts all with 1 ball each.
On Saturday the ladies played a Single Stableford.
Winners on the day: Rachel Dorman 37 pts and Chris Keevil 35 pts on a c/b from Cathy Aiken 35 pts.
NTP’s:
7th A Grade sponsored by Gail Hanigan – Chris Keevil
16th C Grade sponsored by Uplands P/L – Marg Kinlyside 17th sponsored by PH Golf – Chris Keevil. 3 balls
Ball winners: Rachel 37 pts, Chris 35 pts, Cathy 35 pts, Estelle Roberts 34 pts, Justine Makeham 31 pts – 1 ball each.
Next Saturday is a 4BBB Stableford and next Wednesday is a Single Stableford.
- PAMMIE McCLOY
The Saturday event for men was the NRL Challenge Single Stableford sponsored by Geoff Hill.
The winner was Aaryn Murfitt with 42 points from Barry Gaal with 39 points on a countback from Casey Ahton.
The Watson Toyota secret birdie hole was the 7th and the jackpot of $90 was shared by four players.
The jackpot returns to $30 next week.
The Pro Pin on the 7th was won by Nick Bush and he receives a voucher for $68.
The Terry Brothers Carpet Court secret birdie hole was the 8th and won by Grant Harding on a card draw.
The Deluxe Blinds & Shutters Eagles nest jackpot of $200 on the first was not won and remains at $200 next week.
The Ian Page Bricklaying card
draw was won by Lachlan Rolls.
The Salami Brother Pizza award was won by Des Daley. Balls went down to 33 points on a countback and there were 73 players.
Round 1 of Handiskins was held in conjunction with the Saturday event.
The winner was Aaryn Murfitt with 42 points and Mark Hawker was the LVTong NTP winner on the 7th.
Upcoming events:
Saturday 26th July - Tester Porter Services Two Person Ambrose. Minimum of six drives each player, must have three drives on the front nine and three drives on the back nine.
Saturday 2nd August is the Cooltech Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Monthly Medals, held in conjunction will be Round 2 of Handiskins.
The Wednesday Medley was won
by Allan Moore with 38 points and he won 12 balls.
Runner up was Frank Lincoln (9 balls) with 37 points from Curtis Schaefer (7 balls) with 35 points.
Cameron Clark (5 balls) was fourth with 34 points on a countback from Peter Terry (3 balls) and Peter Broekman (2 balls) with 33 points).
The Pro Pin was won by Mark Hawker and he received a voucher for $44.
Balls went down to 29 points on a countback and there were 60 players.
The Friday medley was won by Grant Harding with 37 points and he won 4 balls.
The runner up was Levi French (2 balls) with 32 points.
Levi also was the winner of the Pro Pin and he received a voucher for $7.
There were 10 players.
Welcome aboard to WDs Qual-
ity Cuts as our new sponsor of the Sunday medley.
This weeks winner was Andrew Sabidussi with 40 points and he won a voucher for $30 from WDs Quality Cuts and 6 golf balls.
Mitch Cameron (4 balls) was runner up with 38 points from Gavin Marshall (3 balls) with 37 points on a countback from Hugo Davidson (2 balls).
The Watson Toyota secret birdie jackpot of $90 was not struck and the jackpot will be $120 next week.
Balls went to 32 points on a countback and there were 33 players.
The Sunday morning Social Club played a 14 hole event which was won by Simon Roberts. Steve Barnes hit the shot of his life to ace an eagle on the 8th.
There were 24 players.
CRAIG WATSON
Boorowa Goldies Rugby Club have raised a total of $32,889 at its annual Ladies Day.
The Club proudly announced the total result last week with $24,667 donated to Burrowa House Aged Care Facility to assist with developments for their enclosed sunroom.
“This facility is essential for our community and directly impacts BRU members, their families and the community as a
whole,” the Club said.
$8,222 was donated to the Nathan Stapleton Spinal Injury Support Fund.
“Nathan continues to require assistance in his recovery from a serious spinal injury he suffered while playing for the Goldies in 2022,” the Club said.
The Club has thanked the community for their support of the event.
“Boorowa Rugby Club would like to thank anyone that attended the Ladies
Day Luncheon, bought a raffle ticket, bid on an auction item, bought a ladies day jersey or contributed in any way,” the Club said.
“The BRU volunteerswhat a sensational effort.
“A great day up at the ground and an even better night at the Boorowa Hotel.
“Thank you to Boorowa and the wider rugby community for your continued support.
“See you at Ladies Day 2026.”
