A number of residents who live along the Boorowa to Narrawa Road have shared their frustration and anger over the change by Transport NSW to the speed limit on the Boorowa to Narrawa Road that came into effect last week.
According to most, they are frustrated that there was no consultation or advanced warning that the change would be coming into effect and that though they will need to travel the required 80km/h on the bitumen road, as soon as they turn off it they are able to travel 100km/h on the unsealed roads.
A group of locals are calling for the Transport NSW team and the Minister to come out and meet with them and to visit the road.
Dr Amy Kelly is one of the locals who lives off the stretch of road that joins Boorowa to Rugby and Crookwell and has estimated that it will add an extra five to seven minutes in travel time to and from Boorowa and believes that the difference will impact school children, stock and supply trucks and extend their working week.
“I think though what is the most frustrating thing, is that we’re all agreeing if it’s unsafe or it needs work on the road, that’s fine, if there’s an area or a small section of the road that needs the speed limit reduced, I think that’s completely reasonable,” Dr Kelly said.
“But, to make the entire route to Boorowa 80km/h is so impractical.
“It’s absurd, it makes no sense given that they have recently put up railings on the side of the road.
“It’s unbelievable and it’s
just bureaucracy gone mad quite frankly.”
Some of the residents see the move as a way of further cost shifting to the local Council or defunding regional roads.
“I’m very suspicious that this is classic Minns government operations where they are cost shifting back to local government or they are essentially defunding regional roads by reducing the speed limit,” Dr Kelly said.
“It makes no sense for that major highway between two moderate to large size regional towns to be reduced to 80km/h.
“The only reason why I can think that would be done is to reduce their costs so they don’t have to fund it to a standard of 100km/h.”
Dr Kelly said that as a community they would like to see the decision reviewed.
“We’d also like to see some personal input from the state government, from the Transport Minister, from Transport NSW, actually have a person on the ground, come out to the area and drive on the road and see exactly what the road is like,” Dr Kelly said.
“And to view themselves, rather than just putting it into some ridiculous algorithm in the computer that spits out this number.”
The community believes that businesses and tourism in the area will suffer as a result of the change.
“Quite frankly, it’s just the most extraordinary decision,” Dr Kelly said.
Hilltops Council Mayor Brian Ingram spoke on the change in the Ordinary Meeting held last week for the the establishment of a Local Transport Forum.
“We traced it back to a Traffic Committee meeting
in March 18 months ago,” Cr Ingram said.
“I’m as guilty as anyone else, sometimes you brush over those minutes of that committee, but having said that, the minutes of that meeting that came to Council to say ok to and acknowledge had a section of road to have the speed reduced and to go to Transport for NSW.
“Which, was fair enough, there’s a section of it that’s not too good.
“There’s a section that a lot of money has been spent on, so what happened next?
“Transport for NSW took over, Transport for NSW told no one.
“Transport for NSW came out at the last moment and said, ‘We’re going to reduce the whole length of that road to 80km/h,’ no consultation with the local community, no report back to Council, no nothing.”
Cr Ingram told the people that phoned him to contact Transport for NSW prior to realising the matter had been in the Transport Committee minutes from March 2024, however, the minutes only showed a section would be reduced.
According to Cr Ingram he asked the General Manager to follow the matter up, which he did by sending the
“For those people who live out in that area and are affected by this and were basically blindsided by it, to a point, so was Council,” Cr Ingram said.
The residents have been in contact with Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke in the hopes that she would be able to look at the matter, and have discussed the possibility of getting a petition going that can be presented in state parliament.
Ms Cooke has made representations on their behalf to the Minister for Regional Roads and Transport.
“I am also seeking further information about the evidence and findings that led Transport for NSW to lower the limit across a 40km stretch of roach, which I know is causing inconvenience for locals,” Ms Cooke said.
“According to advice from Transport for NSW, the decision followed concerns raised by police and highway patrol, which were referred to the local traffic committee for review.
“Emergency services are the first to respond to crashed, and if they have raised safety concerns, their advice must be taken seriously.”
being notified by the change in speed limit, Transport for NSW have said they did advise them.
“Residents were advised of the changes by letterbox drop, media release and EBlast,” a Transport for NSW spokesperson said.
“There were also VMS (variable message sign) boards displayed for two weeks prior to the implementation of the speed zone change.
“Transport consults with local council and NSW Police as part of the review process but speed zone reviews are not subject to community consultation.”
Transport for NSW confirmed that the matter was raised at the March 2024 Local Traffic Committee.
“It was agreed by the committee - which included Transport for NSW, Hilltops Council representatives, NSW Police and a representative for the local MP - that a speed zone review be carried out on Rugby Road from Little Plains Road to the Hilltops LGA border due to safety concerns with the road alignment and geometry,” the spokesperson said.
“As Transport carries out speed zone reviews with a route-based assessment,
quested by Hilltops Council to align with the NSW Speed Zoning Standard.
“The road length between Boorowa and Little Plains Road has a noticeable difference in the road environment from Little Plains Road, however, the higher crash rate in section one (Boorowa to Little Plains Road) was one factor that supported a recommendation to reduce the whole length.”
Transport NSW said a site inspection was carried out by Transport NSW representatives on three separate occasions to inform the speed zone review.
“During the review, Transport considered previous safety improvement work that had been carried out by Hilltops and Upper Lachlan Shire councils in the past five years,” the spokesperson said.
“There were 13 reported crashes between 2019-2024 that were assessed as part of this speed zone review.
“There are many factors that can contribute to crashes, however, speed is directly related to the severity of injuries sustained in a crash.
“Speed was identified as a contributing factor in the crashes that occurred on Rugby Road.”
Cherry Blossom Garden Club
The next meeting of the Cherry Blossom Garden Club is to be held at the Golden Glance Nursery on the 11th September at 2pm.
Discussion to be about our bus trip to Wagga Botanic Gardens and nurseries.
The date is the 23rd October all members to get your names in if you wish to go as there are only 18 seats available.
Please phone 0417717673 if you need more information.
SMITH
GAIL
Boorowa Community Op Shop gives $55,000
$55,000, That’s how much the Boorowa Community Op Shop gave out to 14 local charities and community groups on Sunday 24th August.
Opened on 27th July 2017, coordinated by the Rotary Club of Boorowa, and staffed completely by Volunteers, the shop has a unique method of distributing their annual proceeds.
Every Volunteer can nominate a local charity or community group (or more) that they wish to support, and the total hours they put in over a year, becomes the proportion of nett proceeds donated to that particular charity or group.
These groups, chosen by our volunteers, reflect the wide range of needs and opportunities in our community, and Boorowa Rotary and the Op Shop are proud to support them.
Over the past eight (8) years, the shop has become much more than just a store - it has become a place where generosity, community spirit, and hard work come together to create real impact.
Op Shop Committee Coordinator and 2025-2026 Boorowa Rotary President, Ilze Myburgh (while
unable to attend on Sunday) sent a heartfelt message thanking Volunteers and community alike.
“To our wonderful Volunteers, the many hours you give, the effort you put in, and the kindness you show are the heartbeat of the Op Shop. Without your dedication, none of this would be possible. And of course, along the way, there have been plenty of funny and
sometimes bizarre moments that make volunteering such a unique and rewarding experience.” Mrs Myburgh said. She continued saying: “I also want to thank our community for your ongoing generosity. Every donation you give - big or smallhelps us stock the shop and, more importantly, helps us make a difference to all our customers. It’s this shared spirit of giving, of both
time and resources, that makes the Op Shop such a success.
Together, volunteers and community, you make a real and lasting difference. We are deeply grateful. Thank you.”
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For all your Fresh Fillets of Fish King Prawns and Oysters GRENFELL ACUPUNCTURE &MASSAGE WELLNESSCLINIC TreatingPain,Illness &Stresssafely&effectively.
Sunday’s distribution of funds brings the total amount the Op Shop has shared in the last 8 years with the local Boorowa Community to over $267,400! A huge input into our community.
Registrations close soon for Gather and Glow
With registrations closing on Friday, 5th September, anticipation is building for the upcoming Harden Murrumburrah ‘Gather & Glow’ Rural Women’s Gathering, set to take place on Saturday, 13th September 2025 at the Harden Country Club.
This vibrant event promises a day of inspiration, connection, and celebration for women across the region, and organisers are encouraging anyone interested to secure their spot before the registration deadline of 5th September.
The theme “Gather & Glow” reflects the spirit of the day, a chance for rural women to come together, share stories, learn from one another, and leave feeling uplifted and empowered.
The program features a standout keynote address from Grace Brennan, founder of Buy From The Bush, whose work has championed rural communities and brought national attention to regional businesses.
Her story of grassroots innovation and resilience
is very relevant to all rural women.
In addition to the keynote, the day will include interactive workshops focused on creativity, wellbeing, and personal growth, as well as a morning tea, lunch and High Tea with a glass of Barwng Wines bubbles to celebrate the day.
Gather & Glow is a wonderful opportunity to connect with like-minded women in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Organisers say the event is open to all, whether you’re a farmer, business owner, student, mother, or simply someone who values community and connection. For more information or to register, visit https://events. humanitix.com/gatherand-glow-2025-hardenmurrumburrah or use the QR Code, follow us on facebook or intstagram or email ruralwomensgathering@ gmail.com..
As the registration deadline approaches, the message is clear: don’t miss your chance to Gather & Glow in Harden Murrumburrah! - GATHER AND GLOW COMMITTEE
Representatives of the 14 recipient organisations of the 2024-2025 Boorowa Community Op Shop proceeds.
Keynote speaker for the event is Grace Brennan the founder of Buy from the Bush. PHOTO: Supplied
The Cherry Blossom Garden Club.
Man from Young arrested on drug and child abuse material charges
With less than a month to go, excitement is building in Boorowa as preparations ramp up for Woolfest, the town’s signature celebration of its rich sheep and wool heritage.
This year’s event, anchored by the iconic “Running of the Sheep” parade on Sunday, will feature an expanded program designed to make the whole weekend a family-friendly experience.
Saturday will see markets, children’s activities, jumping castles, entertainment in the park and a family movie, with fireworks to finish the evening.
Emergency services will also be on hand with vehicles and displays, while the popular Quickshear competition will again be a feature, with wet-weather contingencies in place at the showground thanks to Council support.
Glenn Hurry chair of the Woolfest Committee said the aim this year has been to strengthen Saturday’s program so visitors and locals can enjoy a full weekend of activities.
“A lot of effort has gone into making Woolfest more of a weekend, not just a single day,” Mr Hurry said.
“We’ve worked to add enter-
By REBECCA HEWSON
A man from Young will appear in court faced with drug and child abuse material charges following his arrest by local police on Tuesday.
According to police a search warrant was executed on a local residence that resulted in the man’s arrest.
“On Tuesday the 26th of August 2025 a 47 year old male from Young was charged with Supply prohibited drug (Methylamphetamine), Supply prohibited drug (GBH), Supply prohibited drug on an ongoing basis, and Possess child abuse material after
Young Detectives executed a search warrant on a residential premises in Young, NSW,” Police said.
“The 47 year old was bail refused and will appear before the bail hub Wednesday August 27, 2025.”
Anyone with any information about any illegal matters are being urged to speak to police or Crime Stoppers.
“Police encourage members of the public to contact Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 or online to report illegal drug activity or any other criminal activity,” police said.
“Callers can remain anony
tainment and children’s activities on Saturday afternoon so there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.”
He said the festival’s structure remains familiar but has been enhanced by new stallholders and events.
“It’s really about building on what works while adding variety,”
Mr Hurray said.
“Last year we had around 4,000 people in town, which was a huge boost for local businesses and created such a positive atmosphere.”
Hilltops Council’s David Munnerley was singled out for his leadership in bringing the program together.
“It’s a real team effort, but David has done an excellent job coordinating everything,” Mr Hurry said.
“There’s been great support from volunteers, Council and the whole community.
“It’s come together really well.”
With strong crowds expected again this year, organisers believe Woolfest is on track to continue growing into one of the region’s premier festivals, celebrating Boorowa’s history while providing a vibrant weekend for families, visitors and locals alike.
Milvale Road bridge works scheduled
By ANNABEL CUSACK
Hilltops Council has advised that roadworks will take place on Milvale Road, Young, on Tuesday 2 and Wednesday 3 September, with temporary traffic changes in place.
The works will see the Milvale Road bridge restricted to one lane between 6:30am and 4:00pm each day.
A 40km/h speed limit will be enforced for the duration, and traffic control measures will be in place to ensure the safety of workers and motorists.
Council has asked the community to allow extra travel time and exercise caution when moving through the area.
“These works are necessary to maintain the safety and reliability of the road network,” a Hilltops Council said.
“We appreciate the patience and cooperation of road users while they are carried out.”
Work on the bridge is scheduled for September.
PHOTO: Hilltops Council
YOUR COUNCIL - YOUR NEWS HILLTOPS COUNCIL
For all Enquiries please contact Hilltops Council on 1300 445 586
PUBLIC NOTICES
PLANNED COUNCIL WORKS (INCLUDING ROADWORKS, OPEN SPACES AND WATER SUPPLY & SEWERAGE WORKS)
NOTIFICATION UNTIL WEEK ENDING THURSDAY 11/09/2025 is available on Council’s website at www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/council/ council-works-and-road-closures/
HILLTOPS DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN SURVEY | HAVE YOUR SAY
Hilltops Council is developing a new Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) to help make our region a more inclusive and accessible place to live and work for everyone, including people with disabilities.
The Draft DIAP will outline key actions and strategies to be implemented over the next four years. Community consultation is vital to ensure the plan reflects the lived experiences, needs, and ideas of local residents - especially those with disability or those who care for someone with disability.
We invite all residents to have their say and help shape a more inclusive future for Hilltops by completing a short survey at https://www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/council/have-your-say/ in person at Hilltops Council Offices and Library branches or by assisted telephone call on 1300 445 586.
Survey closes 6:00pm, Sunday 28 September 2025.
PUBLIC NOTICE | PUBLIC EXHIBITION OF DRAFT POLICIES (VARIOUS)
Council currently has the following documents and policies on public exhibition:
• Draft Transfer of Crown Road Reserves to Council Ownership Policy
• Draft Urban Tree Management Policy
The draft policies can be viewed at https://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 submission to Council. Submissions are to be recieved by 5pm Thursday, 25 September 2025.
Submissions can be made via https://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.
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 https://www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/council/have-your-say/ 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 https://www. hilltops.nsw.gov.au/council/have-your-say/; or BY LETTER TO: The General Manager, Locked Bag No. 5, Young NSW 2594.
DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS
Application No: DA2025/0146
Applicant: R Tye
Property: Lot 2 DP 748427, 241 Boorowa St YOUNG
Proposal: Indoor recreation facility (indoor fitness and health centre)
Exhibition Dates: 28 August 2025 to 12 September 2025
Submissions Close: Prior to close of business 12 September 2025
This application will be considered under Part 4 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979. The application is not integrated development or designated development. 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.
PESTICIDE & HERBICIDE USE NOTIFICATION
NOTIFICATION UNTIL WEEK ENDING THURSDAY 11/09/2025 is available on Council’s website at www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/council/ council-works-and-road-closures/
Cinema gets ready to celebrate
As the Southern Cross Cinema gets ready to celebrate 20 years since its opening the committee and the Young Witness have taken a look back at where it all began.
Hilltops Arts Inc have original photos and copies of The Young Witness that are over two decades old which showcase the beginning of what has become a favourite way for locals to watch movies and be entertained.
Going through the papers there was a timeline printed ahead of the opening which showed the Southern Cross Hall becoming the Cinema was four years in the making.
November 2000 - Kim Johnson and Anthony King met to discuss a cinema and cultural centre for Young.
February 2002 - Grant received from State Ministry of the Arts for $75,000. Work continues on further grant applications.
April 24, 2002 - Federal Government grant for $237,000 is received. Young Shire Council agrees to purchase Southern Cross Hall to be used for a cinema and performing arts centre.
May 13, 2002 - A public meeting is held at the Young S&C Club, over 200 people attend.
July 2002 - First weekend working bee. Over the next three years, hundreds of community minded citizens lend a hand.
November 2002 - Work begins with builder Mal Blair, and a team of Work for the Dole participants.
February 2003 - Second grant from State Ministry of the Arts for $55,000 is received.
August 2003 - ANZ Bank donates $2,000.
November 2003 - Young Shire Council gives $50,000, and a loan of $50,000.
January 2004 - 9m x 3m screen arrives courtesy of Douglas Transport. The screen is valued at $23,000.
February 2004 - Projector arrives, valued at $90,000. Tannoy Sound System supplied and installed by M&Ms Music Studio at a cost of $50,000.
March 13, 2004 - Test screening of ‘Spiderman’ for Arts Council Members.
March 26, 2004 - Lord of the Rings: Return of the King, is the first film screened to rapturous applause.
November 2004 - Sydney Opera House ‘Baby Proms’ perform.
January 26, 2005 - Young Arts Council is recognised with a Cultural Award on Australia Day.
July 30, 2005 - The inaugural ‘Hilltops Music Festival’ is held.
The Young Theatre Company made it to the front page of one of the Young Witness editions back in 2002 with their calls to turn the Hall into what it has now become today.
Bringing back good old days: YOUNG’s Southern Cross Hall brings back nostalgic memories of debutante balls and theatre productions for many older present and past residents of the town but unfortunately it is not so clear in the hearts of our younger citizens.
The Young Theatre Company wants to change all that by buying the hall, which has been on the market for some time, and restoring it to its former glory, using it for a theatre, cinema and youth arts centre.
Currently owned by the Catholic Church, the hall has only been used for functions for Hennessy Catholic College in recent years and has been dormant for around 18 months.
OFF SCREEN SUPPORT: Helping unload the big screen were Matthew Blair, Gordon Sanderson, Anthony King, Mark Blair, Anthony Schiller and Malcolm Blair.
While the building is sound, it is in urgent need of renovations, and couldn’t be used in its current state.
Unfortunately the project, like most wonderful dreams, needs a decent pile of cash to make it happen.
Anthony King of the Young Theatre Company said there were a number of avenues the organisation will approach for funding to develop the hall into a centre for the arts in Young.
“We will be approaching government for arts grants as well as the Premier’s office and we also have the options of the Australia Council, National Trust and even philanthropic trusts.
“We are also very keen to
muster support for the project from within the community and especially businesses who would like to assist in some way.
“It is really only at a stage where we are investigating the viability of the project, a sort of feasibility study, and gauging the interest within the community,” he said.
Another member of the Young Theatre Company, Kim Johnson, said the hall would be a home for the theatre company and would help greatly to develop the arts in Young.
“We stage our productions at the Catherine McAuley Centre at the moment, but it is not a home for the theatre company, it is a borrowed venue.
“The Southern Cross Hall is a great location right in the centre of town, people could have dinner, wander up to the hall and see a show, then go out on the town.
“I think a venue such as this would encourage more people to come to the theatre and especially more young people. While the Catherine McAuley Centre is a great venue, it is very difficult to get young people there watching, whereas I think the hall would attract an audience covering a wider cross section of the community.
“We want to take it to the streets as a twofold theatre and cinema, it would be a new angle for the arts in Young,” he said.
Parish Priest, Father Warrick Tonkin, said the Theatre Company purchasing the Southern Cross Hall would be in keeping with what it was originally meant for.
“The hall isn’t in a fit state at present to hold public functions and is currently surplus to our needs as far as the parish is concerned.
“It would really be a winwin situation if the Theatre Company were to purchase the hall, it could be used for weddings, balls and the like as well as theatre and I think it is a facility the town probably needs,” he said.
“This is a project which has been kicked around by the Theatre Company for some years but this is the first time it has been taken as far as actually seeking funding.”
Anthony King said he had nothing but support for the project from the arts community in Young and a similar project has also been carried out in Tumut with great success.
Junior sporting opportunities are plentiful in Young but for those with a taste for the arts, there is a far smaller scope to develop the skills of our talented youngsters. A centre for the arts such as the Southern Cross Hall would go a long way to rectifying that situation.
FROM THE YOUNG WITNESS
Spring has sprung across the Hilltops
Many locals are rejoicing as the start of the warmer seasons begins across the Hilltops with Spring kicking off this week.
Though the temperatures were dry, throughout the past three months the Bureau of Meteorology is anticipating above average rainfall across the Hilltops, especially throughout September and into October.
“Much of eastern and parts of central Australia face an increased chance of unusually high rainfall,” a BoM spokesperson said.
“Unusually high rainfall is in the highest 20 percent of September to November rainfall, between 1981 and 2018.”
According to the modelling data from the Bureau Young and parts of the Hilltops are sitting around a 90 percent chance of above average rainfall throughout October to December, with a 75 percent chance of up to 200mm of rain to fall.
The chance drops to between 50 to 75 percent of the region receiving up to 250mm of rain through the coming three months and then a 25 percent chance of 300mm.
For the month of September there is a 65 percent chance of the Hilltops getting above average rainfall with a 25 percent chance of 100mm and a
75 percent chance of 50mm of rain through the month.
On the temperature front, the Bureau of Meteorology believes that there will be warmer days ahead.
“Maximum temperatures are like to be above average across south-eastern Australia,” the spokesperson said.
According to the forecast models there is a 65 percent chance of above average maximum temperatures across the Hilltops and a 90 percent chance of above average minimum temperatures for September with the trend expected to continue from October to December.
The first month of winter
temperatures ranged from -4.3 degrees Celsius on both June 21 and June 22 to a top of 19.3 degrees Celsius recorded on June 23.
The temperatures were out of the median range for the month of 2.2 degrees Celsius to 13.9 degrees Celsius, however they also didn’t come close to the extremes with the coldest June temperature recorded on June 19, 1998 at -6.1 degrees Celsius and the hottest June temperature recorded on June 3, 1996 of 21.9 degrees Celsius.
In July across the Hilltops the temperatures ranged from -3.4 degrees Celsius on July 20 to 17.7 degrees Celsius on July 21.
The average July temperatures for the Hilltops are 1.1 degrees Celsius to 13 degrees Celsius with the maximum temperature recorded for the month on record being 20.1 on July 5, 2018 and the lowest ever recorded July temperature -7 degrees Celsius on July 2, 2017.
Steph calls for submissions to be made public
Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke is calling for the publication of all non-confidential submissions relating to the Land Management Code amendments.
On June 6, a four-week consultation period commenced, with NSW Local Land Services seeking feedback on significant changes to the Land Management (Native Vegetation) Code 2018.
According to the NSW Government website, ‘submissions will inform the final amendments to the code’ and ‘submissions may be made public on the Local Land Services website unless clearly marked confidential.’
Ms Cooke said it remains at the sole discretion of the NSW Minister for Agriculture whether these submissions are made public.
During a budget estimate hearing on Monday, the Minister committed to transparency but was vague in agreeing to publish the nonconfidential submissions.
“In their current form, the proposed amendments demonstrate a complete disconnect from the realities of life on the land and would see more red tape added to an already heavily regulated industry,” Ms Cooke said.
“It is vital that the final amendments reflect the input of the community, landholders and other interested stakeholders.
“If the Minister is truly committed to transparency, she must make the submissions public.”
In July, the consultation period was extended by an additional four weeks following widespread criticism from Ms Cooke and local farmers and landholders, that the pro-
cess was rushed and poorly advertised.
Ms Cooke has since released her own submission and called for changes to the Land Management Code to be halted until meaningful consultation with farmers has occurred, and the Draft Native Vegetation Regulatory Map is accurate.
“It beggars belief that the Minister would seek to implement significant rule changes that rely on accurate mapping, when the NSW Minns Government has on multiple occasions acknowledged that the maps aren’t correct,” Ms Cooke said.
“It is just as vital for the environment as it is for the agriculture industry that the Native Vegetation Map is accurate, and right now, the map has fence lines and metal sheds confused with critically endangered ecosystems.”
EXCELLENCE IN FOOTCARE
Boys to the Bush launch two new programs
Boys to the Bush have announced the launch of two new programs and are calling on the community for support as they continue to help boys become men.
The two new campaigns are Harvesting Potential and Paddock for Purpose and by helping out locals can help to enhance the wellbeing of male youth in the local community.
With Harvesting Potential, Boys to the Bush are looking for dedicated locals for the upcoming harvest season to ‘plant the seeds of transformation, one generous act at a time’.
Boys to the Bush are
asking locals to consider donating excess grain, or a portion of grain, to help fund the work of the charity.
Boys to the Bush will provide to donators plenty of supporter material and a National Grower Register (NGR) card and all that is asked is that the grower advertises the opportunity at their business and encourage growers to make a grain donation.
For more information or to get involved, you can register online at https:// bttb-harvesting-potential. raiselysite.com/ or by contacting Amanda Huggett on 0475 131 769 or by
email at amanda.huggett@ boystothebush.org.au.
The Paddock for Purpose program is seeking partners for the upcoming sale season by donating the proceeds of one beast, or a portion of your sale be it a fixed amount per head or a percentage of your earnings.
Like the Harvesting Potential program, anyone taking part is asked to advertising the opportunity and encourage clients and networks to make a contribution.
For more information or to get involved please contact Amanda Huggett on 0475 131 769.
Spring has sprung across the Hilltops, so what does the forecast look like?
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke.
Local business remembers couple
Over the weekend, our Terry Bros family faced an unimaginable loss with the tragic passing of Michael “Sheeds” Sheedy and Helen Sheedy.
These two meant the world to all of us here at Terry Bros not only as colleagues, but as dear friends who became part of our extended family.
They also meant so much to myself, Corinne, Kurt, Tammy, Peter and Lois personally, and we are heartbroken.
Sheeds - For over 21 years, Sheeds was a cornerstone of Terry Bros.
I (Ryan) had the privilege of knowing Sheeds for more than half my life.
I grew up with him, and I’ve worked alongside him for all of my working life.
He wasn’t just a colleague he was a mate, a mentor, and part of my everyday life.
Kurt also began his working career alongside Sheeds as a young school kid at Terry Bros, and they went on to work side by side throughout his whole career.
For Kurt, Sheeds was never just a colleague he was a great mate.
Beyond work, Sheeds and Helen joined in on camping trips and family milestones.
He measured countless floors and window coverings, always with a smile and never a complaint.
He was the first to lend a
hand, whether at work or around our homes, our very own handyman. He never missed a Christmas party and was always the life of the party. Sheeds had a love for old cars and a knack for spotting treasures where others might only see junk.
While out on the road in the Terry Bros van, he’d of-
ten take the long way round to check out a part or pick up something for one of his projects.
As owners, we knew this happened but we also knew the job would always be done, and done to perfection.
That was just Sheeds. He never took advantage of Terry Bros; he simply lived
with passion, honesty, and integrity, and we admired him all the more for it.
Our customers loved Sheeds just as much as we did.
Many of our long-standing customers knew him well, and he would often call in for a cuppa even when there wasn’t a measure to be done.
That was the effect he had on people.
In nearly every town, it felt like Sheeds had a mate waiting to see him.
We’ll never forget his love of meat pies he somehow knew where every good one could be found, even if it meant a 40-minute drive!
Though he hated heights, he never backed away from helping others.
He was kind, steady, and always willing to go the extra mile.
Helen - Helen had only been with Terry Bros for just over a year, but her impact was immediate and lasting. With her sharp eye for detail, kindness, and warmth, she quickly became part of the team.
Having worked in the legal world for many years, we often joked that Terry Bros had its very own solicitor. She was always ready to help, always up for a laugh, and always embraced our Christmas parties and dressup events with enthusiasm. She and Sheeds were side by side at every Terry Bros gathering a true team in every sense.
Together, Sheeds and Helen brought light, humour, and heart into our business and our lives.
Their absence leaves an immeasurable gap, but their spirit and the memories they’ve given us will remain forever.
To our staff, customers, and community thank you for standing with us during this difficult time.
Please keep Sheeds and Helen’s families in your thoughts and prayers.
Rest easy, Sheeds & Helen. You’ll always be part of the Terry Bros family.
RYAN TERRY
Cherryatrics pay tribute to Michael Sheedy
It’s with a heavy heart that we inform the Rugby League Masters community that one of the true gentlemen of the game has passed away.
Michael Sheedy (Sheeds) was a stalwart of the Young Cherrypickers, serving as club strapper for many years but generally giving his all in whatever capacity was required.
One of the all time great Cherryatrics Masters team, touring the Gold Coast in 2009 and once again proving to be a hugely popular team member, always smiling and having a laugh, and enjoying the camaraderie of teammates that only Rugby League can provide.
loved wife Helen, who was also tragically taken from us. We are all heartbroken at this time.
RIP Sheeds you were one of the greats and you will be sadly missed mate.
CHERRYATRICS
The Cherryatrics have paid tribute to club stalwart Michael Sheedy who tragically passed away recently.
6.00 Morning Programs. 3.40 Richard Osman’s House
6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Beyond Paradise. 1.25 Professor T. 2.15 I, Jack Wright. 3.00 Inside Our Minds. 5.00 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. 5.30 Landline. 6.00 Australian Story. 6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Beyond Paradise.
8.30 Midsomer Murders. 10.00 The Family Next Door. 10.50 I,
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Harry’s Practice. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Australia’s Best Drives. 12.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 1.30 The Yorkshire Steam Railway: All Aboard. 2.30 Horse Racing. Charter Keck Cramer Moir Stakes Day and Chelmsford Stakes Day. 5.30 Animal Rescue. 6.00 Dog Patrol. 6.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 George Clarke’s Old House, New Home. 6.15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent Specials. 7.05 Spicks And Specks. 7.35 QI. 8.05 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (NZ) 8.50 The Stand Up Sketch Show. 9.40 Changing Ends. 10.00 Late Programs.
6.00 NBC
7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Charter Keck Cramer Moir Stakes Day and Chelmsford Stakes Day. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game Show. 3.00 Football. AFL. Second elimination final. GWS Giants v Hawthorn. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Football. AFL. Second qualifying final. Fremantle v Gold Coast Suns. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. 11.00 To Be Advised. 12.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Round 4. Gold Coast Suns v GWS Giants. 3.00 Rides Down Under: Aussie Truckers. Return. 4.00 Deep Water Salvage. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 AFL Post-Game. 6.30 AFL PreGame. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 MOVIE: Back To The Future. (1985) 10.00 MOVIE: Ghostbusters. (1984) 12.15 Late Programs.
C’ship. 8.40 Chopped Jnr. 9.25 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.05 Abbott Elementary. 10.25 Speechless. 10.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 NRLW Wrap. 12.45 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Dragons v North Qld Cowboys. 2.35 Rugby Union. The Rugby C’ship. Aust v Argentina. 4.30 Test Rugby: Australia v Argentina Post-Match. 5.00 News. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 Rugby League. NRL. Canterbury Bulldogs v Cronulla Sharks. 9.25 NRL Saturday Night Footy Post-Match. 10.00 MOVIE: American Assassin. (2017)
6.00 It’s Academic. 7.30 Flushed. 8.30 Beat Bugs. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 The Big Adventure. 12.30 My France With Manu. 1.30 Starstruck. 2.45 Aust Got Talent. 4.30 MOVIE: Close Encounters Of The Third Kind. (1977) 7.30 MOVIE: The Da Vinci Code. (2006) 10.30 MOVIE: Wild Things. (1998) 12.45 Burn Notice. 1.30 Late Programs.
Islands Of The Pacific. 5.05 Antiques Roadshow. 6.05 Growing Up Jewish. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Austin. 8.00 The Family Next Door. 8.50 I, Jack Wright. 9.35 MOVIE: Sherpa. (2015) Russell Brice. 11.10 Anh’s
Your Money & Your Life. 3.30 Animal Rescue. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 7.00 Greatest Escapes To The Country. 7.45 Mrs Brown’s Boys. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 The Pembrokeshire Murders. 11.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.05 ER. 2.50 Heartbreak High. 3.35 A Bite To Eat. 4.05 Would I Lie To You? 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 George Clarke’s Old House, New Home.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 Fishy Business. 12.00 The Fishing Show By AFN. 1.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Round 4. Sydney v Fremantle. 3.00 Air Crash Inv. 4.00 Mt Hutt Rescue. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: Twister. (1996) 10.50 MOVIE: The New Mutants. (2020) 1.00 Late Programs.
Masks Power Heroes. 6.30 Paddington. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.35 The Mysterious Benedict Society. 8.25 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.05 Abbott Elementary. 9.50 Speechless. 10.10 Merlin. 10.55 Late Programs.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Keep your
focused on the
at
Avoid distractions. There’ll be lots of time for fun and games later. Expect to get welcome news later on in the month.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) You might soon have to decide about moving a relationship from its current status to another level. Don’t let anyone influence your decision. It must be yours and yours alone.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) You can finally get off an emotional roller coaster and get back to focusing on your goals without interruptions through the rest of the week. A nice change is due later on in the month.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. NZ Warriors v Broncos. 1.45 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 10. Newcastle Knights v Gold Coast Titans. 3.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 27. Parramatta Eels v Newcastle Knights. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 The Block. 8.35 60 Minutes. 9.35 9News Late. 10.05 A Killer Makes A Call. 11.05 The First 48. 12.00 Late Programs.
6.00 It’s Academic. 7.30 Flushed. 8.30 Beat Bugs. 10.00 Behave Yourself. 11.00 My France With Manu. 12.00 Starstruck. 1.30 Home And Away. 4.30 The Voice. 6.00 Gold Coast Ocean Rescue. 6.30 Puppy School. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. 10.30 Bones. 12.30 Quantico. 3.00 Burn Notice. 5.00 American Crime.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 The Brighter Side. 12.30 Everyday Gourmet. 1.00 The Yes Experiment. 1.30 4x4 Adventures. 2.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly Australia. 3.30 Pooches At Play. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 Food Trail: South Africa. 5.00 10 News. 6.30
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Antiques Downunder. 1.30 Dad’s Army. 2.00 Rugby Union. The Rugby Championship. Australia v Argentina. 2.40 MOVIE: Follow That Dream. (1962) 5.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 10. Canterbury Bulldogs v Cronulla Sharks. 7.00 Customs. 7.30 TBA. 11.40 Late Programs.
Morning Programs. 10.00 Good Chef Bad Chef. 10.30 The Brighter Side. 11.10 Survivor: Australia V The World.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 AFL Sunday Footy Show. 12.00 The Baron. 1.00 MOVIE: State Secret. (1950) 3.20 MOVIE: Sabata. (1969) 5.30 M*A*S*H. 6.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 10. Parramatta Eels v Wests Tigers. 8.00 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: The Monuments Men. (2014) 10.50 The Closer. 11.50 Late Programs.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) Trying to make an impression on some people runs into a bit of a snag at first, but it all works out. Meanwhile, an old and almost forgotten personal matter once again needs attention.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) A rise in your energy level helps you finish an especially demanding task. Take some time now to spend with family and friends before starting a new project.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) This is a good time to reestablish contact with trusted former associates who might be able to offer good advice regarding a career change you’ve been contemplating.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Your resourcefulness combined with a calm, cool approach can help you work your way out of a knotty situation and avoid a potentially serious misunderstanding.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A calm, quiet period allows you to recharge your energies. But later on in the month, you’ll be ready to saddle up and gallop off in pursuit of your goals.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Family matters need your attention. Check things out carefully. There might still be unresolved tensions that could hinder your efforts to repair damaged relationships.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) It’s a good time to take a stand and show as much passion on your own behalf as you do when arguing for the rights of others. You might be happily surprised by the reaction.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) You bring sense and sensitivity to a confusing situation. Things settle down later on, leaving you free to enjoy a weekend of fun and relaxation with friends and family.
4 What are night clothes consisting of loose trousers and jacket (7)
8 Name a renowned Australian bushranger (3,4)
9 To captivate, is to do what (7)
10 What is a short cord for securing something (7)
11 Who were the Secret State Police of Nazi Germany (7)
12 Which British countryman cultivates his own land (6)
14 Name recently married women (6)
18 Which colour is deep purplish red (7)
21 To lift up, is to do what (7)
22 To make lively, is to do what (7)
23 To abrogate, is to do what (7)
24 When one infuriates, one does what (7)
DOWN
1 What is power or capacity to do or act in any relation (7)
2 To be silly, is to be what (5)
3 Kingston is the capital of which parliamentary State in the West Indies (7)
4 What is a solemn promise (6)
5 Which strong fibres are used for making fabrics, cordage, etc (5)
7 What is a discharge of artillery (5)
13 Name an English actor, producer and director, Laurence … (7)
15 To drive backwards, is to do what (7)
E-QUATIONS
16 What are pieces of defensive handheld armour (7)
18 To desire eagerly, is to do what (5)
19 What is vulgar or abusive language (5)
20 Name the patron saint of Wales (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 KITSCH
(a) Pretentious or worthless art
(b) A colourless brandy distilled from wild black cherries
(c) A savoury custard tart
2 LEXIS
(a) A means of connection
6 Name an imaginary female marine creature (7)
Letters have a number value
17 When one curls the lip, one does what (6)
Some values are in the right hand cells.
Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
(b) The vocabulary of a language
(c) The law of retaliation
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:
Bath ’N’ Kitchen (abb) (3)
Fertiliser: ... & Bone (5)
Italian potato dumplings (7)
Odd (coll) (5)
Pair (3)
Sack (3)
Sadness (coll) (5)
Small nocturnal lizard (5)
Strident (7)
Timid (3)
Classifieds
We are seeking witnesses or information from the general public regarding a motor vehicle accident that occurred at around 9am on Tuesday, December 31, 2024 on Young Road, Boorowa, heading towards Young NSW, where a White Feed Truck ran a quadbike off the road.
If you have any information about this incident, you are requested to contact LHD Lawyers on info@lhd.com.au or call us on 02 9264 6644 mentioning
JAMES, Brian Cecil.
The Death has occurred of Mr Brian Cecil James. Well-known local historian. Passed away peacefully on August 28, 2025, at Southern Cross Care Young, surrounded by loving family. Now reunited with his beloved wife Robyn and son Glenn. Much loved husband of Robyn James (nee Waugh) (dec), Son of Ronald James (dec) and Alma James (nee Castles) (dec). Devoted father and father-in-law of Glenn James (dec), Belinda and Wayne Collins, Jacqui and Paul Smith, Narelle and Michael Adams.
Cherished Gramps of Sarah, Annie, Jenaye, Josh, Jayden, Emma, Branden, Will, Jordy and their partners, and great-gramps of Wren.
Sadly missed by companion Betty Stanton, extended family, friends and the Young community.
Aged 86 years. Rest in peace.
A catholic prayer service to celebrate Brian’s life will be held on Friday, September 2025, at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Young commencing at 1pm.
The cortege will then leave for the Young Monumental Cemetery. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. For those unable to attend Brian’s service, it will be viewable via the link on the Patterson Brothers Funerals website.
Patterson Brothers Funerals 95 Main Street, Young N.S.W 02 6382 5217 pattersonbrothersfunerals.com.au
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Hilltops Councillor Column
Lovely to see the trees in blossom, the canola in flower, and the paddocks looking green.
It won’t be long before we are out on our mowers every week!
The Companion Animals Advisory Committee held its first meeting on Wednesday, 13 August and we are fortunate to have some amazing people on board, bringing a wealth of knowledge and passion for companion animals. I’m looking forward to seeing
2016 Honda Jazz VTI-S, 54,500km, cruise bluetooth,control, reverse camera, aircon, 12 months (1MK4SY),registration RWC, new tyres, full-service history, one owner, excellent condition $15,000. Please call Brendan 0494 193 965.
Council Rangers often receive negative feedback from the community due to the regulatory nature of their role.
However, it’s important for the community to see the positive work they do.
Here’s a quick snapshot of our pound statistics over the past 12 months:
• 144 dogs were seized, with over 50% returned to their owners.
The remainder were rehomed or sent to rescue, meaning no rehome-able dogs were euthanised.
• 60 cats were seized, and again, no rehome-
able cats were euthanised. All were either rehomed or sent to rescue.
This is an outstanding achievement by our Rangers. Some city councils aren’t reaching these kinds of rehoming results which are a credit to our Rangers’ dedication, always exhausting every avenue to return animals to their homes before bringing them to the pound.
This is why it’s so important to ensure your animals are microchipped, registered, and that your contact details are up to date - so if they do
Live music coming to the Barnes Store
Barnes Store Café & Emporium in partnership with Fish River Roasters and MusicNSW present the ‘Songbird Sessions’ on Sunday 14 September from 2pm-6pm.
An afternoon and evening of live original music from regionally based artists is coming to the Barnes Store Café and Emporium in Murrumburrah, with tickets available now.
Doors will open at 2pm, with the first act commencing at 3pm.
Three great acts will be performing, Saralyn, Jess Crossman, and Lawdy Clawdy.
The Barnes Store Café and Emporium has recently opened additional space in the magnificent and historic Barnes Store in Murrumburrah, to enable larger functions and events.
Owners Steve and Wendy Byrne are excited to work in collaboration with MusicNSW and Fish River Roasters for the first of what is hoped to be many performances of regional artists.
“We are the last stop on a regional tour for these great artists and we are sure it will be a wonderful afternoon and evening for all those attending,” Wendy said.
Saralyn is a rising country star from the Hunter Valley, NSW who many will have recently seen as a contestant on The Voice.
Just this week Saralyn was chosen by Ronan Keating as the last member to join his team.
Her music blends heartfelt storytelling with the sonic influences of Stevie Nicks, Lainey Wilson, and Dolly Parton.
In 2024, she won the Gympie Music Muster Mothertone Talent Search open category, earning her a spot at the Deni Ute Mus-
get out, you can be contacted quickly.
Council has plans for an upgraded kennel block and off-leash area for the pound animals, so that while in care, they can be warm, cool, and comfortable.
A huge congratulations to our Rangers, Shawn and Isobel, on your amazing work! From Friday 22 to Sunday 24 August, I was lucky enough to attend - and supply billet cattle for - the 9th Southern All Breeds Handlers Camp, held at the Harden Showground.
The camp attracts over 137 competitors, along with teachers and parents, with some travelling from as far as Victoria and the Mid North Coast. One guest speaker even came all the way from Canada!
The camp is designed to teach both children and adults all aspects of cattle care, including showing, grooming, nutrition, and husbandry.
ter and a Nashville showcase in 2026.
Jess Crossman’s music mixes country, pop & indie. She’s been writing songs since she was young, and has been able to use music to take people on a journey that feels familiar.
Jess has opened for The Beach Boys, has shared stages with artists like 19twenty, Sneaky Sound System, Killing Heidi, The Potbelleez, Adalita (Magic Dirt) and Hayley Jensen, and in 2023, she made the top 50 in Australian Idol.
Lawdy Clawdy is a folk band with a country and blues twist, based in the Outback Far West region of Warren.
Lead singer and guitarist Greg Storer is a two-time Tamworth Country Music Award-winning artist who has performed his music across Australia for over 20 years.
His daughter Bonnie also plays guitar and sings for the band, and director of the Warren Chamber Music Festival, Frances Evans, plays the fiddle.
Tickets are only $60 and include two individual tasting plates provided by the Barnes Store kitchen, as wellas three hours of live music!
“With the Gather and Glow Women’s Gathering event on Saturday 13th September and Songbird Sessions on Sunday 14th September, it will be a fantastic weekend in Harden-Murrumburrah,” Harden Murrumburah Regional Develop Corporation CEO Melissa Pinney said.
You can purchase tickets through Humanitix by searching ‘Songbird Sessions Barnes Store’ online, or you can call the Barnes Store on (02) 6386 3316.
It was a great success and a huge thank you must go to the committee for organising such a great event in Harden. I am already look forward to next year’s camp, which will be the 10th year.
If you would like to sponsor next year’s event, please reach out to the committee as soon as possible. A huge congratulation to Brian and the entire team at Hilltops Council for raising money for the Vinnies Western Region Community Sleepout in Young last week.
With donations open until the end of September, there is still time to go tohttps://shoutforgood. com/fundraisers/ WesternRegionCommunitySleepout2025.
Finally, the Harden-Murrumburrah Camera Club invites you to their 2025 Photographic Exhibition & Competition at the Courthouse, Murrumburrah. The exhibition will be open from Saturday 20 to Sunday 21 September, 10am to 4pm with the official opening on Saturday, 20 September at 2.30pm. Entry is just $2.
Stay safe and drive carefully, with tourist numbers expected to be in high over the next month as people come to visit the canola fields.
Councillor Michelle Gallo
Boorowa Food Hub marks its second birthday
The Boorowa Community Food Hub, which provides support for local families doing it tough, is marking its second ‘birthday.’
For the past two years the Hub, which is situated on the corner of Brial and Park Streets, has been providing a variety of basic food items to anyone who, due to the increasing cost of living, feels the need for some support in accessing basic foodstuffs.
Stocking of the Hub is made possible by generous donations from local service clubs and many individuals.
The motto of those who manage the facility is: ‘Take what you need and leave what you can.’
Quite a number of local families make use of the Hub, and its presence ensures that their task of managing the household budget in these difficult times is made a little easier.
Coordinator of the Hub, Kathy McLennan, indicated recently that the project has received a very generous donation from the Boorowa Rotary Club, through funds raised from the local Op. Shop.
“This will greatly assist in the ongoing supply of basic items to stock the Hub, for the benefit of those who have a need of its services,” Kathy said.
Most of the supplies to stock the facility are purchased locally.
Many local individuals have supported the facility since its inception, and assistance in maintaining the service has also come from outside the district.
This support and encouragement is greatly appreciated, and ensures the continuation of its work in the local community.
A simple cake-cutting ceremony is to take place to mark the two years in which the Hub has assisted local families, making their lives a little easier in these challenging times.
The brief ceremony will take place at the Hub on Tuesday, September 9, at 4pm, and all are welcome to attend.
- DERRICK MASON
Volunteers thanked on Meals on Wheels Day
By REBECCA HEWSON
Last Wednesday was Meals on Wheels Day with Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke thanking the staff and volunteers that ensure the organisation continues to thrive across the Hilltops and the Cootamundra electorate.
National Meals on Wheels Day shines a light on the vital role the service plays across the local area in supporting older residents and those who may need a
little extra help to remain living independently at home.
“Meals on Wheels does so much more than provide nutritious meals,” Ms Cooke said.
“It’s an organisation rooted in companionship, reassurance and helping people remain independent in their own homes.
“Just as important is the friendly chat and check-in that comes with every delivery.”
For more than 70 years, Meals on Wheels has been a trusted, reliable presence in communi-
ties right across the country, and in the Hilltops it is powered by the generosity of locals who give their time to care for others.
National Meals on Wheels Day 2025 was celebrated under the theme “Aged Care You Can Count On”, acknowledging the organisation’s role in supporting older Australians and those who may find it difficult to shop or prepare meals for themselves.
Ms Cooke said the day was also a reminder of the importance of volunteering.
“Volunteering is a wonderful way to give back and make a real difference close to home, and Meals on Wheels is one of those services who are always looking for more helping hands,” Ms Cooke said.
“I want to thank every volunteer across our electorate who steps up to ensure this service continues.
“Your contribution means the world to the people you support, and to our wider community.”
CHILDREN CAUGHT UP IN HOMELESSNESS CYCLE ACROSS THE STATE
By REBECCA HEWSON
Homelessness NSW has revealed there are a ‘shocking’ number of children who are suffering from homelessness across the region and the state following release of new data.
According to the data NSW has by far the largest number of unaccompanied homeless children in the country, prompting calls for greater funding for homelessness services.
Homelessness NSW have
said In the 2023-4 financial year, 6,108 children aged 12 to 17 turned up at homelessness services without an adult in NSW.
That’s more than twice as many as in Victoria where 2,762 children presented unaccompanied.
“The level of unaccompanied youth homelessness in NSW is far higher than every other state,” Homelessness NSW CEO Dominique Rowe said.
“Thousands of children are being forced to navigate homelessness
on their own - scared, vulnerable and without the support of an adult.
“This is extremely worrying.
“These children should be safe in their beds at night, not lining up at crisis services alone.”
The data from the AIHW also showed that in the three years to 2024, almost half (47 percent) of unaccompanied children in NSW were experiencing a current mental health issue as well as homelessness.
More than half had experienced at least one of mental health issues, family and domestic violence, or problematic alcohol or other drug use.
“Homelessness services are doing the best they can to look after children in very complex situations, but we know they are overwhelmed,” Ms Rowe said.
“We are calling on the government to lift funding for services so they can meet the growing demand for support.”
LGNSW responds to minister’s new model code of meeting practice
Local Government NSW has welcomed the NSW Minister of Local Government’s release of the new Model Code of Meeting Practice by the Office of Local Governement, with the group welcoming the intent to strengthen transparency and integrity across the sector.
Local Government NSW (LGNSW) President Mayor Phyllis Miller said the sector supported moves to improve probity and process in all spheres of government.
“We acknowledge the intent of the NSW Local Government Minister in his aim to seek to raise the level of respect for councils both in the community and in the chamber,” Mayor Miller said.
“We’ve had the opportunity, along with councils, to provide feedback on the drafting of the model code and are now working through the details of the Minister’s new code to understand its application in the sector.
“As someone who we know cares deeply about councils, we know the Minister will welcome feedback from LGNSW and councils about the operation of the new code and whether any additional matters may arise as a result of putting it into practice that need to be more fully considered.”
LGNSW last year responded to the Office of Local Government’s (OLG) discussion paper with a submission following extensive consulta-
tion with member councils, county councils and joint organisations.
While acknowledging the new code, Mayor Miller said LGNSW remained disappointed with the Minister’s decision to prohibit briefing sessions for elected council representatives.
“Councillors are elected to make informed decisions on behalf of their communities. Briefing sessions are not decision-making forums – they simply ensure councillors
are properly equipped with the background and technical information they need before a matter comes to the public chamber,” Mayor Miller said.
“These briefings lead to better informed representatives and, ultimately, better decision-making outcomes for communities, but decisions are – and always will be – made transparently in council meetings, in full view of the public.
Mayor Miller said LGNSW
would continue to listen to councils, capture their feedback on the code’s operation, and share this with the Minister and OLG.
“LGNSW values the constructive and positive relationship we have with the NSW Government, and we look forward to continuing to work with the Minister in the shared interests of councils and the communities they serve particularly on key issues like financial reform,” she said.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has thanked local Meals on Wheels volunteers in celebration of the day last Wednesday. PHOTO: Supplied
Junior Pickers play in the 2025 grand finals
Young Junior Rugby League Football Club Cherrypickers played their final games for the season last Saturday with Patricia Matthews capturing the action behind the lens. Thank you so much to Patricia for all of the fantastic photos she has taken for us throughout the season.
SPORT
Weather warms up on course
The Saturday event was a 4 Ball Twister sponsored by Patrick FitzGerald and Keith Duran.
The winners were Zac Sell & Zac Smith with 59 points on a countback.
The runners up were Adam Tanner and Robert Bush with 59 points and third was Daryl Brown and Dave Taylor with 56 points on a countback.
Rick Baldwin had the best individual score with 38 points.
The Watson Toyota NTP on the 7th was won by Grant Harding and the 17th was won by Rick Baldwin.
The Pro Pin was won by Grant Harding and he received a voucher for $19.
The Terry Brothers Carpet Court secret birdie hole was won by Mick Ashton.
The Deluxe Blinds & Shutters Eagles nest jackpot of $200 on the first was not won and remains at $200 for another week.
The Ian Page Bricklaying card draw was won by Dave Taylor.
The Salami Brother Pizza award was won by Cameron Hobbs and Aaryn Murfitt. Balls went down to 32 individual points on a countback and there were 25 players.
Upcoming events- Saturday 30th August- Saturday 6th September Cooltech Refrigeration and Air conditioning monthly medals & Norman Crawford Handicap Matchplay Qualifying.
Saturday 13th September Single
Stableford sponsored by Chapman’s Embroidery.
The third round of Handiskins will be played in conjunction with this event.
The Wednesday Medley was won by Don Cruickshank with 36 points on a countback and he won 6 balls.
Runner up was Peter Terry (4 balls) with 36 points on a countback from Cameron Clark (3 balls).
Peter Broekman (2 balls) was fourth with 35 points on a countback.
The Pro Pin was won by Grant Harding and he won a $17 voucher.
Balls went down to 32 points and there were 22 players.
The Friday medley was won by Mitchell Stevens with 43 points and he won 4 balls.
Runner up was Allan Moore (3 balls) with 37 points from Grant Harding (2 balls) with 35 points.
The Pro Pin was won by Robert Bush and he received a voucher for $6. Balls went down to 27 points and there were 9 players.
The WD Quality Cuts Sunday medley was won by Zac Sell with 43 points and he won 6 balls and a $30 sponsors voucher.
The runner up was Mel Webb (5 balls) with 42 points from Swayde Honeman (4 balls) with 39 points.
Tim Norman (3 balls) was next with 37 points on a countback from Spud Smithers (2 balls). The Watson Toyota secret birdie jackpot was won by Grant Meacham and he received a $30 voucher.
Next week the Jackpot will be $30. The Pro Pin was won by Jim Brewster and he receives a voucher for $33. Balls went to 31 points on a countback and there were 36 players.
The Sunday morning Social Club played a 14 hole event that was won by Ash Pointer. Runner up was Steve Barnes and Jonny Sheather was third. There were 21 players.
- CRAIG WATSON
Springing into action at Tipperary Golf Club
19/8 - Tuesday’s social competition at Tipperary Golf Club was won by Terry Casey and Garry Cummins on 32, next best was Lindsay Sheather and Eva Lestrange on 44 3/4. Lindsay and Eva had a birdie gobble.
Garry and Terry had two birdies and David Jasprizza and Geoff Nott had one birdie.
21/8 - David Jasprizza and Geoff Nott were Thursday’s winners on 55 3/4.
Liz Harding wins Ladies Binalong Champion
The following is the draw for the Wirral cup, weekend match play: Noela/Betty, Estelle/Cathy, Liz/Michele, Pauline/Rachel. Saturday 9th single stableford winner Rachel Dorman 36 pts runnerup Cathy Aiken 35pts c/b Camille Carberry NTP 7th Elegant Timber Shutters and Blinds a grade Liz Harding, 13th Uplands Pty Ltd b grade Noela Hardman 16th not struck 17th PH Golf Liz Harding.
Wednesday 13th single stableford winner Jan Broderick 40pts NTP 13th Uplands Pty Ltd b grade Cathy Marshall, 16th Gail Hanigan c grade Mylan Davidson, 7th not struck. Saturday 16th 2 Lady Ambrose winners Liz Harding and Pauline Collier 68 nett NTP 13th Uplands Pty Ltd a grade Liz Harding 7th and 16th not struck 17th PH Golf Justine Makeham.
Sunday 17th August Binalong Open Pauline Liz and Justine made this trip. Liz Harding Scratch Winner 81 and Justine Makeham runner-up 92, congratulations ladies.
Saturday 23rd single stableford winner
Mylan Davidson 37 pts runner-up Chris Keevil 36 pts c/b Jan Broderick NTP 7th and 13th not stuck 16th Gail Hanigan a grade Rachel Dorman 17th PH Golf Chris Keevil. - LEANNE SLATER
STUDENTS WELCOMED
Congratulations to Boorowa Golf Club’s newest junior members, who competed at the NSW Catholic Primary Schools Golf Tournament in Blackheath last
week representing St Joseph’s Primary School. George Manion and Tom Scott had a great day and really enjoyed the challenge of
playing on a new course. They surprised themselves with really good scores too. Keep it up boys.
Lindsay Sheather and Garry Cummins second and Garry and Lindsay had two birdies and one gobble.
Sunday’s flag event went to David Jasprizza, Rod Pratt second.
Terry Casey and David had a birdie each.
Gobbles went to Lindsay with one, Terry with one, David with one, Garry with one, Thadem with one, Jake with two and Scone with two.
Lindsay had a birdie gobble.
In matchplay Rod defeated David 4 up. 26/8 - Lindsay Sheather and Terry Casey were the winners with 35 1/4.
Garry Cummins and Geoff Nott second with 36 3/4.
David Jazzy and Nigel Willett had one birdie and two gobbles.
Lindsay and Terry had one birdie gobble and one birdie, Eva four and ca one gobble.
Goeff and Lindsay were Thursday’s winners with 54 3/4, next best was Nigel Willett and John Gibbons on 58 1/2.
Nigel and John had two birdie gobbles.
Jake Searle and David Jazzy had two birdies and two gobbles.
Lindsay and Geoff had two birdie gobbles.
Sunday’s stableford winner was Garry Cummins on 39 points, second went to Richard Dennis on 36 points. In matchplay Richard Dennis defeated Lindsay Sheather.
Garry Cummins defeated Rod Pratt 5 up. Jake Searle and John Gibbons had a birdie gobble each.
Richard had two birdies and Thadem Davies one.
Jake, Richard and David Jazzy had one gobble each.
Sunday will be the monthly medal. Thank you to our sponsors each week, much appreciated.
- VERA McMILLAN TWO NEW JUNIOR MEMBERS AT BOOROWA GOLF CLUB, GEORGE MANION AND TOM SCOTT REPRESENTED THEIR SCHOOL AT BLACKHEATH.
The weather is warming up and there’s plenty of action at the Young Golf Club.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
- BOOROWA GOLF CLUB
Cherrybombs progress following victory
By ANNABEL CUSACK
The Young Cherrypickers Women’s Tackle side, known as the Cherrybombs, were the only Young team to record a victory on the opening weekend of the Group 9 finals, defeating Gundagai 20–0 in Saturday’s Elimination Final at Nixon Park, Temora.
The Cherrybombs established control early and maintained it throughout the contest, crossing for four tries through Beth Loco, Charlotte Gray, Kelsey Loco and Jamila Piercy. Kiarna Mitchell added two conversions to complete the scoring.
The result secured Young’s place in the Minor Semi Final, where they will meet Southcity at Alfred Oval on Saturday, 6 September, with kick-off set for 12:00 pm. A win will keep the Cherry-
bombs’ premiership hopes alive and move them closer to a place in the preliminary final.
Cherrypickers U18s:
The Young Cherrypickers U18s were defeated 20–18 by Southcity in the Group 9 Weissel Cup Qualifying Final at Anzac Park on Sunday.
Cooper Smith crossed in the 15th and 25th minutes, before Jack Woods added a third try in the 39th minute.
Woods converted all three tries, with successful attempts in the 16th, 27th and 41st minutes.
Southcity finished with four tries and two conversions, giving them the narrow margin required to progress.
The result places Young into the next stage of the finals series.
In the minor semi final this weekend, they will come up against the Coota-
mundra at Alfred Oval.
Cherrypickers First Grade:
The Young Cherrypickers First Grade side went down 42–18 to Gundagai in the Group 9 Great Northern Premiership Qualifying Final at Anzac Park on Sunday.
Young’s points came through three tries, with Jake Walker crossing in the 2nd minute before Jesse Corcoran added a double in the 60th and 68th minutes.
Conversions were shared, with Tom Demeio successful in the 3rd minute and Robert Roberts adding two more in the 61st and 69th minutes.
Despite an early breakthrough and a strong secondhalf contribution from Corcoran, Gundagai’s nine tries and weight of possession proved decisive in the result.
At Alfred Oval this weekend, the Pickers will come up against Temora Dragons first grade.
Lions ready for finals season
By REBECCA HEWSON
Young Lions Soccer Club had a fantastic weekend, making the trip to Griffith where they faced off against City in the Pascoe Cup, Gardiner Shield and Youth U18.
In the men’s first grade game Young defeated City 3-0 with goals being made by Captain Duncan Cameron in the 51st and 59th minute and Noah Ryan hitting the back of the net in the 78th minute.
Cameron was named the Player of the Match following his two goals and some great leadership on the field.
In the men’s second grade game the score ended up tied at 2-2 with City the first to strike following a goal from Luke Keefe, the Lions were left to catch up heading into the second half after Griffith’s Curtin Pendlebury put one in the net in the 22nd
minute, however, a goal just before half time for the Lions by Ralph Masae meant the Lions only needed one more to equalise.
The Lions dug deep in the second half and scored the only point in the last 45 minutes thanks to Kyeran Steenbergen scoring in the
61st minute.
Masae was named the Player of the Match on the day.
The second grade side is currently sitting fifth on the
ladder with one more round of the normal season to play with seven wins, two draws and eight losses next to their name.
The Under 18s have moved to third on the ladder following a convincing 3-0 win over Griffith on Saturday.
Jarrell Brooks for the Lions was the first to light up the point score only five minutes into the game, with Ashton Menegazzo for Griffith responding only five minutes later.
Heading back from halftime the score was tied and it was Griffith to lead the way with Menegazzo hitting the back of the net for a second time.
The Lions weren’t prepared to go down without a fight though and Henry MacIver equalised with Griffith before Jackson Riley put the boys ahead in the 84th min-
ute to win the game.
Griffith’s Ashton Menegazzo was named Player of the Match.
This weekend is round 18 and the final round of the normal season for both our Men and Women’s First Grade and Men’s Second Grade with the Under 18s having a rest thanks to a bye.
On Saturday the Men’s Second Grade side will host Yoogali FC at Hall Bros Oval with kick off at 12pm midday ahead of the First Grade Men’s side facing off against Yoogali at pm.
On Sunday the Women’s First Grade side will take on Wagga United at Hall Bros Oval with kick off at 12pm. Locals are being encouraged to get along to Hall Bros Oval to cheer the sides on and show their support for the men and women.
Short report due to the wet weather at the Sporties
This is a very short report due to the rain and cold weather preventing any play during the week.
On Thursday the rain came before play was due to start and the rain on Friday night combined with the very cold conditions on Saturday kept people at home.
The Riverina Murray Region Championships continue this weekend with the sectional rounds of the Pairs competitions to start on Saturday.
Seven teams from the club have entered this event and six of those teams will play their first–round games at Temora on Saturday afternoon.
Sheila Traynor and Margaret Gailey will be playing in the Women’s Senior Pairs.
Geoff Holt and Peter Watts and Ivor Watkiss and Cliff Traynor will be playing in the Men’s Senior Pairs.
Three teams will start in the Open Reserve Pairs – Glen Seward and Joe Read, Jill and Denis Rosen and George Somerville and Glen Benson.
Damien Miller and David Quigley will play their first game in the Men’s Open Pairs on Sunday morning.
On Saturday and Sunday 13th and 14th September the club will host the Riverina Murray President’s Cup competition.
This involves six sides of sixteen players that have been selected to represent the former districts from Zone 8. Each side consists of four teams of four players.
The sides will play three games on Saturday commencing at 8.30 am and a further two games on Sunday morning.
The draws for the Region Pairs Championships in which our club players are involved are on the notice board.
Information concerning the Region Singles Championships is also on the notice board.
TO: Young Lions Soccer Club
Matt Murray, Boro Navori and the boys will be looking to bounce back this weekend for a spot in the final.
PHOTO: Young Cherrypickers RLFC
Rovers eye the top prize
The Boorowa Rovers easily dominated in the qualifying final on Saturday defeating the Crookwell Green Devils 24-10 to secure their spot in the major semi final coming up this Saturday.
If the side wins it will mean they will be able to host the grand final at home, so the eye is on the prize for the boys.
It was a second half shutout for the Rovers to secure the win over the Green Devils with the home side having a 12-10 lead at half time before the Rovers crossed twice more to lock in the win easily.
Tries for the Rovers were made by Cooper Cross, Austin Power, Matthew Canellis and Murray Armour with Cooper Cross converting four.
The Rovers will now go up against the Bungendore Tigers this Saturday in a battle for the grand final.
The first time the Rovers and the Tigers faced off for the season it was a convincing 20-14 win for the Boorowa side with the Tigers out for revenge the next time the pair met up with went Bungendore’s way 30-22, now with the grand final on the line the Boorowa side will be looking to dominate the Tigers and secure that home grand final against the winner of the preliminary final on Saturday September 13. In the other game played on the weekend the Harden Hawks had a thrilling win over the Binalong Brahmans 10-8 in the elimination final at McLean Oval.
The Hawks will now travel to Crookwell to face off against the Green Devils this Sunday in the minor semifinal.
Rovers will be aiming to
The Hawks swooped on the Brahmans with both sides putting two over the line, however it was thanks to a conversion that the boys were able to stay ahead of the visitors.
The Hawks stood out in the defence, managing to hold back the Brahmans each time they looked like crossing the line, with the final set of the game very impressive. With only 1.21 left on the clock and despite having almost finished a full game the
Brahman’s were attempting to cross the line for the win, however, the Hawks dug into their reserves and between some fantastic defensive work and excellent communication on the field they manage to hold them out until the final siren.
There were some great plays by the Harden side throughout and it was only due to luck that the Brahman’s crossed the line at all.
The boys left it all on the field and came out victorious
in the end and will now be preparing to face off against the Green Devils in the minor semi final on Sunday at 2.30pm at the Crookwell Memorial Oval.
The Hawkettes will face off against the North Canberra Bears at Mick Sherd Oval on Saturday after a thrilling win over the Crookwell Green Devils in Boorowa last Saturday.
There was only a single point in it as the final buzzer rang with the Hawkettes de-
feating the Green Devils 1716.
Tries for the Hawkettes were made by Clare Smith and Georgia Smith had two with Emma James converting two and kicking one field goal to secure the win for the local ladies, proving why the side has the highest points scored for in the competition.
The determination both on and off the field for the ladies will be on full display this Saturday as they make the
trip to Canberra to face off against the Bears in what will no doubt be a thrilling major semi final.
Locals are being encouraged to get behind the Boorowa Rovers as they make their way through the finals, either by attending the games and cheering the teams on or by decorating storefronts and houses to show their support.
