That’s the stark warning from Belubula River landholders as an old rail bridge remains in the waterway more than two years a er the devastating oods that caused its collapse.
Transport for NSW has told the Canowindra News that its contractors plan to have the heritage-listed bridge removed by the end of September 2025 - weather permitting.
But the bridge has been there since November 2022 and Michael Payten, Chairman of the Belubula River Landholders group, is calling for its immediate removal.
Conditions are currently drier and water levels lower: waiting only increases the risk that wetter conditions will return and water will be pushed into the town.
“When it will inevitably ood again it’s going to put a lot more pressure on the town,” Mr Payten said.
“It will attract debris and when debris binds to that bridge in the river it’s going to cause a dam wall there. There’s nowhere much for the water to go except higher.”
That would mean more water affecting the town and surrounds.
The need to remove the bridge was formally identi ed in Cabonne Shire Council’s ood recovery plan – adopted in June 2023.
Transport for NSW, in a statement provided to The Canowindra News, says Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison visited the site in October 2024, with Transport for NSW Acting Regional Director West Holly Davies and representatives from Cabonne Council, to meet the contractor and gain an understanding of the scope of work required to remove all debris associated with the ood event.
Before they can remove the bridge itself, a number of heritage considerations and approvals need to be addressed.
“The next stage of work to be completed by the contractor will comprise the removal of three bridges near Canowindra, includ-
ing the heritage-listed Belubula River Underbridge, plus removal of silt at the bridge site and further elements of the disused rail infrastructure,” a spokesperson for Transport for NSW said.
“Preparatory work is already underway, however, before any work can begin on-site there are a number of heritage considerations and approvals to be addressed.
“The contractor has advised Transport that the two non-heritage listed structures will be removed by 30 June 2025 and work to remove the heritage-listed bridge is expected to be completed by the end of September 2025, weather permitting.”
WARNINGS THAT FLOOD RISK GROWS WITH WAIT TO REMOVE BRIDGE FROM BELUBULA
Just get it out of the river, Mr Payten says.
Even in these favourable conditions, those down Coocumber Creek upstream are seeing increased ows as a result of silt build-up upstream of the bridge.
“(Coocumber Creek) is taking way more water now since this bridge went in,” Mr Payton said.
“The landholders on that side of the river have got this ongoing problem that that creek is running all the time – every time there’s even a little fresh in the river, not a ood.”
Ken Stanley’s property is down
Coocumber Creek and he says water levels are higher and the water is taking longer to drain away.
“What’s happening is we’re seeing more water going down Coocumber Creek which is meant to be just an over ow,” he said.
“We have access problems getting down to our farm – we have a concrete crossing but it’s sometimes quite deep and it shouldn’t need to be that deep.”
Transport for NSW says it has been working with local stakeholders on remediating the damage caused by the 2022 oods, and has completed the rst stage of extensive ood clean up in the area.
“The rst stage of this extensive ood clean-up work included debris removal, restoration of the surrounding area and implementation of measures to mitigate future blockages or structural impacts, ensuring the safety and reinstatement of private land through our work with the landowners,” a Transport for NSW spokesperson said.
“This work was completed in December 2024.”
The work also included stabilisation of the heritage-listed non-operational rail corridor, cutting in new top drains and scour protection for the billabong and excavation of the rail embankment.
Michael Payten said the fallen bridge means, “there’s nowhere much for the water to go except higher.”
PHOTO: Dan Ryan
Kirsty Evans named NSW Regional Woman of the Year
Kirsty Evans has been recognised as NSW Regional Woman of the Year for 2025.
Having led e orts to provide pro bono legal advice to the community of Molong a er it was a ected by severe ooding in 2022, Kirsty has dedicated over 250 hours helping 12 business owners, delivering over $100,000 in legal services pro bono. Her advocacy has resulted in claims that were originally denied by insurers being overturned, with insurers partially accepting liability. Through her leadership, approximately $1 million has been returned to the community. In 2024, Kirsty present-
ed evidence at the Parliamentary Inquiry into insurers’ responses to 2022 major oods claims, exposing systemic failures and advocating for better practices. The inquiry adopted several of Kirsty’s ndings in its recommendations.
The Parliamentary Inquiry into insurers’ responses to 2022 major oods heard many residents had not received adequate support, with claims processes being particularly di cult to navigate in the a ermath of the natural disaster.
Evans leads an all-female team at her rm in regional NSW, Cheney Suthers. Her commitment to justice
extends beyond disaster relief, with a proven track record of securing increased compensation for infrastructure projects and improving access to legal services for her community.
“In a time where many lawyers are exhausted, overworked and disillusioned, pro bono work not only allows us to build our skills but live our values,” she said on her rm’s social media account.
Kirsty Evans, of Cheney Suthers has been recognised for helping victims of the 2022 floods. Photo: Cheney Suthers’ instagram.
WHAT’S ON in and around our region
CUC COWRA REGION STUDENT ENGAGEMENT NIGHT
Thursday 13 March at 6pm
Semester 1, 2025 registered students are invited to join us for FREE pizza and drinks at the Cowra Bowling Club.
Did you know...? 55% of CUC Cowra Region students are the rst in their family to study in 13 di erent areas of study including Health, Education, Psychology, Social Work and Community Services, Business and Management, Law, Science, Tertiary Preparation, Science, Engineering, Architecture and Built Environment, Theology and Religion, Agriculture and Rural Sciences, Arts and Design!
This shows that where you live should not determine whether you can or not study in higher education.
We hope you can join us for a great night to meet other local registered students, CUC Cowra Region sta and Board members to celebrate your higher education journey! Are you studying and want to register for Semester 1, 2025? Email us at degrees@ cuccowraregion.edu.au for the registration or re-registration link.
Visit our website to learn more: www.cuccowraregion.edu.au
COWRA COMMUNITY MARKETS
Sid Kallas Oval, 8:30am - 12:00pm
The Cowra Community Markets are held every third Saturday of every month at Sid Kallas Oval with a wide variety of local fresh produce, diverse stallholders and local buskers.
Each month at their Markets you can nd locally grown fruit and veg, eggs, honey, oils and other pantry staples.
They also have home baked bread, cakes, slices and biscuits, homemade preserves, homewares and gi ideas, clothing, candles, plants, collectables and bric-a-brac, tea and co ee, and much more.
LEARN TO PLAY BOWLS
Sundays 9:15am, Cowra Bowling Club
$10 per Adult per game, Children free Looking for a fun, social, and relaxed way to spend your Sundays?
Join the Cowra Bowling Club and have a chance to learn to play bowls every week. Whether you’re a complete beginner or just want to re ne your skills, the Cowra Eagles Bowlers will guide you through the game!
To register your interest, simply contact: Sonia Morgan - 0425 228 505 Mim Shroder0417 062 679 Bob Morgan - 0481 244 081
LITTLE FISHES AT THE MUSEUM
Ages of Fishes Museum
Free program and entry. Join friendly sta at the Age of Fishes Museum Canowindra on the rst Friday of every month for some fun, hands on science lessons! Each month, the little shes’ study a new topic. Perfect for curious minds and little adventurers, this fun and educational session is sure to spark creativity and wonder.
COWRA’S LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER FOR A NIGHT OF CELEBRATION AND CONNECTION
Club Cowra (CJs), March 26, 6pm-9pm Cowra’s LGBTQ+ community is embracing
JOURNALISTS
Dan Ryan 02 6342 1044
dryan@midwestmedia.com.au
Cara Kemp 0455 675 544
the freedom to come together openly and proudly. With growing acceptance and inclusion, there is excitement to celebrate gathering without hesitation, promote events, and simply enjoy each other’s company. This event is a great opportunity to bring people together in a warm, welcoming environment.
This special night o ers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies in the Cowra area to connect and socialise.
Guests can enjoy complimentary nger food, while a cash bar will be available at CJs. Those wanting a meal can order dinner from the bistro from 5:30pm.
To add ambiance, there will be live music throughout the evening.Just as people come together through sports, hobbies, and faith, this night is an opportunity for the local LGBTQ+ community to unite,
cara.kemp@midwestmedia.com.au
CLASSIFIEDS 02 6342 1044
classifieds@cowraguardian.com.au
ADVERTISING
Courtney Gambrill 0448 248 080 cgambrill@midwestmedia.com.au
share experiences, and build friendships. This stress-free, inclusive, and welcoming gathering is open to all.
For more details, please contact Club Cowra at (02) 6342 1144.
COWRA FESTIVAL OF INTERNATIONAL UNDERSTANDING
March 21-23
The 2025 Cowra Festival of International Understanding where will celebrate guest nation, India! The Festival originated in the mid-1960s at a time when the town was coming to recognise the bene ts of promoting understanding between nations.
FLICKERFEST SHORT FILM FESTIVAL
Rosnay Organic Wines
27 April 6:45pm, with optional dinner from 5:45pm
A specially curated selection of highlights from Flickerfest’s Australian Academy® Qualifying competition programmes in Bondi 2025. See the best entries of this year’s 34th festival. Rosnay organic wine will be served, and BYO alcohol is not permitted. All adult tickets include a free glass of wine or so drink.
COWRA ANGLICAN CHURCH BOOK FAIR
St John’s Anglican Church Hall Cowra (98 Kendal St) March 20-22, 8am-2pm
Thousands of clean, high quality books at the St John’s Anglican Church Hall Cowra Thursday March 20th to Saturday March 22nd from 8am till close.
Contacts: Bruce Pietsch - 0427 722 810 and Judy Penfold 0418 695 551
The national fundraising challenge has raised nearly $300,000 at time of writing in 2025 alone.
Mullets for Mental Health registration opens
REGISTRATIONS are now open for Black Dog Institute’s Mullets for Mental Health, raising funds for crucial mental health research.
The Black Dog Institute is calling on Aussies everywhere to show they’re all ears by growing a mullet to support the 1 in 5 Australians who experience a mental illness each year. Back and bolder than ever, Mullets for Mental Health is the national fundraising challenge that brings together Australians of all hair types to shape and grow their mullets in the name of better mental health.
“Mullets for Mental Health is more than just an opportunity to have fun with your hair – it’s a
chance to drive change and spark important conversations among mates, families, and communities, breaking down barriers to seeking help,” said Mullets for Mental Health Campaign Manager, Tom Farrar.
“In Australia, 9 lives are lost to suicide every day – 7 of them men. Sadly, suicide remains the leading cause of death among Australian men aged 15-44, with rates even higher for those living in regional and remote areas. By taking part, you’re not only supporting Black Dog Institute’s vital suicide prevention research and programs but also standing in solidarity with those a ected by mental illness,” Farrar said. “So, rally your mates,
grow a mullet, and raise funds for better mental health this April”.
Since its launch in 2020, over 35,000 participants have grown a mullet, raising more than $13.3 million for better mental health.
Funds raised by Mullets for Mental Health this year will continue to support Black Dog Institute’s innovative research in suicide prevention, the development of digital mental health tools and apps for adults and children, and programs that bring community presenters into schools to promote mental health awareness and support.
More info is availavle at https:// www.mulletsformentalhealth.org. au/
Tractor rollover into Lachlan river
molong, near Mandurama, which resulted in a serious injury.
At 3pm on Wednesday 5th March, emergency services were called to a property on Vernon Drive, near Savages Lane, to nd the tractor had rolled down an embankment with the vehicle upside down in the river.
Two persons were inside the tractor, paramedics removing both patients, and the man was being treated on the scene. The other patient, a woman, wasn’t injured.
The man su ered head injuries in the accident.
The incident is the latest in a spate of on-farm accidents in the region, following a fatal ATV rollover at Frogmore on 16 January, and another vehicle rollover at Milla-
Experts have called for urgent action to increase safety on farms, to reduce the risks of further critical incidents.
“This is not just a wake-up call - it’s an emergency,” said Felicity Richards, Chair of Farmsafe Australia. “We cannot continue to accept farm fatalities and serious injuries as just part of life on the land. The data is clear: we need to change the culture around safety, and we need to do it now.”
The latest data released by AgriFutures Australia and collated by the team at AgHealth Australia has revealed a sharp and deeply concerning rise in on-farm fatalities and serious injuries, with 72 lives lost and 133 serious injuries recorded in 2024.
AgHealth Australia’s Farm Safety Research Manager, Kerri-Lynn Peachey, who monitors and collates incidents on-farm each year, called the latest statistics a stark reminder to prioritise farm safety. “With deaths and injuries more than doubling since 2023, we can’t ignore the warning. While some fluctuation is expected, 72 fatalities far exceed the five-year average of 53,” she said.
“We must stop treating these incidents as unfortunate accidents and start treating them as preventable tragedies,” Ms Richards said. “Farm safety isn’t about red tape; it’s about keeping people alive. If we don’t act now, we will be having the same conversation in another 12 months - only with more names added to the toll.”
A MAN in his 80’s has been transported to Orange Hospital a er his tractor rolled into the river
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) has urged the public to wake up to the risks of lithiumion battery products amid a spate of dangerous res.
FRNSW crews have responded to multiple across NS, including four incidents in a 12 hour period.
So far in 2025, there have been more than 25 lithiumion-related res.
In one incident in Sydney’s southwest, re ghters extinguished an e-scooter that had exploded and caught re. Two men sustained injuries, one from ying shrapnel and the other from smoke inhalation.
While investigations are ongoing, it is believed the re was caused by an incorrect charger being used in tandem with a modi ed device, two of the leading causes of lithiumion battery related res.
“We had at least 318 lithiumion battery res in NSW last year, that’s well up on the 272 of 2023 and 165 of 2022, we know they are on the rise, but people are still taking dangerous risks in their homes,” Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner, Jeremy Fewtrell said.
“Please, heed our advice. Lithium-ion res are happening to households almost every day.” Commissioner Fewtrell highlighted the tragic deaths
Battery fires spark wakeup call
of individuals following battery res, and families placed at risk a er leaving batteries on charge overnight.
“We had two people die in such a re last year, we had a family of seven narrowly escape a lithium-related blaze that destroyed their home at Penshurst late last month and we had to rescue three residents and a dog from a highrise e-bike re at Merrylands West around the same time,’ he said.
A recent NSW Government survey has also highlighted a high-degree of community complacency around the risks
associated with the use of lithium-Ion battery products.
The Department of Customer Service (DCS) survey within the community shows that while 44% of people understand the risks associated with the use of lithium-ion battery products, they’re still willing to engage in risky behaviours when charging their portable devices.
Overall, the survey also showed there was limited knowledge about how to safely use lithium-ion battery products, with around 32 per cent of respondents not knowing how to implement safety
measures and 29 per cent being unsure how to implement safety measures.
“People are aware of the risks but are still willing to overcharge their lithiumion batteries, leave them on charge when they sleep or mix and match power cords. It’s a recipe for disaster and they need to stop now,” Commissioner Fewtrell said.
“Don’t charge lithium-ionpowered devices near exit points. In at least three of the recent res, residents were trapped by the ames and were forced to ee through windows.
Police Recruitment Roadshow travels across NSW
The NSW Police Force has today officially launched a recruitment drive in Southern NSW aimed at recruiting police officers to regional areas.
The drive is part of a recruitment roadshow which will travel from Wagga Wagga to Griffith, Albury, Queanbeyan and Nowra promoting the “You Should be a Cop in your hometown” initiative which is designed to attract police recruits back to their hometown.
The initiative places recruits into regional areas of their choosing based on operational needs, giving new recruits the confidence that when they join the NSW Police Force, they may be able to work and live in their hometowns.
NSW Police Minister and Counter-Terrorism Minister Yasmin Catley highlighted the essential role of police officers in regional communities.
“Police officers in our regional areas are the backbone of the community – they’re the ones who step up when it matters most, keeping people safe, offering support, and being a constant presence the community can count on,” she said.
“The recruitment roadshow is spreading the message that people of all ages, backgrounds, and career goals are encouraged to join the NSW Police Force, with the promise that once you’ve completed your training, you can return home to work.”
Ms Catley also noted the new wage increase, which includes allowances for police recruits to be paid a wage while undertaking their training.
“[We] are ensuring people from regional NSW can serve close to home – all proof that there has never been a better time to join the NSW Police Force,” she said.
Deputy Commissioner for Corporate Services, Dean Smith APM, said the program has been hugely popular and with good reason.
“We know that becoming a police officer and moving away from home can be a big ask, especially if you have family and enjoy where you live. This initiative is designed to build a community of country cops from regional towns,” he said.
“It’s a game changer to be paid to train at the Police Academy in Goulburn and at the same time nominate the region you call home so we can do our very best to find the closest possible position in that area.”
An example of battery fire damage.
PHOTO: FRNSW
Cowra saleyards report
MARCH 5
By ROB PEARCE, market reporter at Meat and Livestock Australia
NUMBERS reduced slightly and quality slipped a little throughout while the supplementary fed lambs were well presented.
There were mainly heavy lambs penned along with trade weights and a few stores were offered. All the buyers were operating except for one and competition was solid with the market holding and dearer in places.
Light lambs to the processors sold from $90 to $138 while restockers from $114 to $142/ head. Medium and heavy trade weight lambs were a couple stronger and averaged from 780c to 800c/kg cwt.
Heavy trade sold from $179 to $206/head. Heavy weight lambs were dearer by $3 to $4/head and averaged 795c to 810c/kg cwt. Heavy weight lambs sold from$212 to $215 while extra heavy weights sold from $220 to a top of $270/head.
Mutton numbers fell and quality was varied with some good heavy sheep throughout and prices were firm to a couple dearer for heavy sheep. Extra heavy first cross ewes sold from $128 to $174.20/head or 430c/ kg cwt.
COWRA council has started the year in the black, headed towards a surplus of nearly ve million dollars for the end of the nancial year.
The Quarterly Budget Review Statement, presented at an information session held on Monday 17 February 2025, showed an estimated $3,798,000 surplus for the end of the nancial year in June, with additional surpluses in waste and water expenses.
The review covered the period from October to December 2024.
“Managing costs and expenditure successfully seems to be happen-
ing. So we’re in a strong position,” Cr Tony Horton said.
The council sewage fund was expected to leave a $852,000 de cit in the council budget by end ofnancial year on June 30, due to an increase in employee costs, along with maintenance and contracts.
“It’s showing a positive improvement, [and] sta are monitoring the budget and and keep an eye on expenditure,” Cr Peter Wright said.
The water fund, previously expected to run at a $69,000 de cit, was expected to instead ip, provid-
ing a $1,336,000 surplus by June 30.
“The biggest headache with water is we’ve got an ageing infrastructure that’s going to require millions of dollars to maintain and bring up to date within the next 25 years, and you’ve got a lot of xed costs,” Cr Wright said.
“We’ve got reasonably cheap water, you could say, although a lot of people think it’s very dear”
Acknowledging the work of council sta in putting together the report, councillor Peter Wright thanked both sta and residents for
using resources mindfully, and contributing to the surplus.
“We will also be able to do the other feel good things that the community wants to be part of.
“Working with the First Nations people, the ability to be accessible [in] all our council and parks and buildings and so forth, to have an area where people can play sport, have an area where people can develop their their music and art skills,” he said.
“I just congratulate our sta doing work through it all. Thank you.”
EMMS MOONEY CATTLE MARKET REPORT
PROUDLY SERVICING THE CENTRAL TABLELANDS
Elders Emms Mooney, operating out of CTLX Carcoar are your commercial livestock specialists, and can assist with paddock sales, feedlotting, off the hook and AuctionsPlus sales.
11/03/2025
Total Yarding: 1825 (-863)
Numbers were back by 863 for a yarding of 1825 cattle. Quality was mixed with large supplies of heifers available, there were good supplies of heavy feeders and prime cattle along with secondary lighter weights suitable for feeders and restockers. Most of the regular buyers were operating. Young cattle to the trade gained 10c to 15c, prime yearling steers sold form 341c to 377c, and prime yearling heifers, 270c to 350c/kg. Feeder steers were up to 15c dearer, selling from 310c to 418c, and feeder heifers were 5c better, 285c to 345c/kg. Prime grown cattle lifted 10c, heavy steers sold from 320c to 360c, and heavy heifers, 260c to 342c/kg. Cows were 8c better, 2 and 3 scores sold from 220c to 288c, and heavy prime cows, 282c to 312c/kg. Heavy bulls sold to 340c/kg. Market reporter, Angus Williams
Contact your local agent today
Emms Mooney 1800 282 623
Ben Emms 0428 639 381
Pat Bird 0438 361 109
Harry Larnach 0428 637 540
Liam Murphy 0459 426 658
Alicia Connor 02 6368 4611
What’s on at Club Cowra
ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS
The Cowra Musical and Dramatic Society will be performing an Episode of the hit Series Absolutely Fabulous as part of the Senior’s Week celebrations. For just $11 you will get a light morning tea and a hilarious rendition of the episode “Fat” from one of Britain most famous comedy shows. Book Early and don’t miss out.
ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS.
Tuesday march 11 (12 noon0 and Thursday March 13 (1pm).
Julee-Anne Bell starred on The Voice Australia in 2021 and wowed the judges and audiences Australia wide with her stunning vocals and
warm personality. Julee-Anne has been blind since birth and she continually inspires and motivates people from all walks of life with her willingness to set the bar high and achieve incredible goals.
Soprano, Julee-Anne Bell received a Bachelor of Music (First Class Honours) in 1993 from the University of Queensland where she studied voice under Margaret Nickson. In 2004, Julee-Anne received her master’s in music studies, majoring in choral conducting and advanced aural studies. Her list of credits as a professional musician is astonishing and she brings to this show a considerable level of stagecra and personality that delivers a show that audiences will be talking about for a long time a er.
Melissa Buchholz has been a professional pianist for over 35
years and has worked nationally and internationally as accompanist for some of the top musicians in the world. Melissa also has a name as a soloist and is equally at home playing classical, pop or jazz genres. Her music speaks to her audiences, and she is thrilled to be working alongside Julee-Anne in this fabulous show.
Together the two artists present a show lled with great music, humour, charisma and just an all-round entertaining time! The music presented covers various genres and includes songs from Music Theatre, Pop, light classical and jazz. Stories are included that detail the history of the song or show as well as personal recollections from both performers about how the songs impacted their lives. Audiences will be touched by many emotions through the show - happiness,
sadness, nostalgia and more!
Perfectly Imperfect Thursday 27th March https://www.123tix.com.au/ events/47076/perfectly-imperfectmelissa-buchholz-and-julee-annebell
So much entertainment coming soon to Club Cowra, keep your eye our for con rmed dates and times.
COMING SOON
ROCKET MAN & PIANO MAN.
The Elton John and Billy Joel Show
LAST STAND COLD CHISEL SHOW GIRLS OF ROCK
A tribute to the ladies over 6 decades.
COMING SOON
Obesity overtakes tobacco as risk factor
Living with overweight or obesity has overtaken tobacco smoking as the leading risk factor contributing to disease burden in 2024.
The Australian Burden of Disease Study 2024, released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), estimated the millions of years of healthy life Australians lose because of injury, illness or premature death –measuring over 200 diseases and injuries.
This report also provides estimates of how much of this disease burden can be attributed to 20 individual risk factors such as alcohol use, physical inactivity, poor diet, overweight or obesity and tobacco smoking.
‘Australians lost an estimated 5.8 million years of healthy life due to living with disease and dying prematurely in 2024,’ said AIHW
spokesperson Ms Michelle Gourley.
‘Over one-third of the total burden of disease and injury in Australia in 2024 could have been avoided or reduced due to modi able risk factors included in the study.
‘Overweight, including obesity, overtook tobacco use as the leading risk factor in 2024, driven by a substantial fall (41%) in the age-standardised rate of total burden attributable to tobacco use since 2003.
‘This fall is likely due to declines in smoking prevalence and burden rates from some of the major linked diseases, such as lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).’
An estimated 8.3% of total disease burden in 2024 was due to overweight (including obesity) and 7.6% was due to tobacco use (excluding vap-
ing). This was followed by dietary risks (4.8%) and high blood pressure (4.4%).
Alcohol use and illicit drug use were the leading risk factors contributing to disease burden for young males aged 15–24, while child abuse and neglect was the leading risk factor contributing to burden for young females of the same age.
When looking at rates of total disease burden, there was a 10% decrease between 2003 and 2024 a er adjusting for population ageing. This decrease was driven by a 26% decrease in the rate of fatal burden, as the non-fatal burden rate increased by 7%.
‘While Australians are living longer on average, years
Boost your budget with
energy rebate
lived in ill health are also growing, resulting in little change in the proportion of life spent in full health. This contributes to the growing demand and pressures on the health system and services,’ said Ms Gourley.
In line with previous years, cancer was the leading group of diseases causing burden in 2024 (16.4%), with 91.3% of this burden fatal and 8.7% non-fatal.
The leading speci c causes of disease burden were coronary heart disease (5.5%), dementia (4.5%), back pain and problems (4.3%), anxiety disorders (3.9%) and COPD (3.7%).
Males experienced more
total disease burden than females across all age groups, driven by males having higher rates of fatal burden. The leading individual causes of burden also di ered between males and females. Coronary heart disease was the leading cause of burden among males, and dementia was the leading cause of burden among females.
For young people, mental health conditions and suicide and self-in icted injuries were the leading contributors of disease burden.
For males aged 15–24, suicide and self-in icted injuries caused the most burden (12%), followed by anxiety disorders (10%) and depres-
sion (7%). For young females of the same age, the leading causes of burden were anxiety disorders (17%), depression (12%) and eating disorders (7%).
In the 5–14 age group, the leading causes of disease burden were autism spectrum disorders and asthma for males, and asthma and anxiety disorders for females.
‘Burden of disease is the gold standard approach for measuring the impact of illness, injury and death, and this information provides an important evidence base to inform health policy and service planning,’ said Ms Gourley.
Men the ‘missing link’ in treatment
A LANDMARK study reveals that bacterial vaginosis (BV), a condition a ecting nearly a third of women worldwide and causing infertility, premature births and newborn deaths, is in fact a sexually transmitted infection (STI), paving the way for a revolution in how it is treated.
Monash University and Alfred Health researchers at the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre say their ndings, published today in the New England Journal of Medicine, hold the key to driving down stubborn and distressing recurrence rates of BV among women.
Authors Professor Catriona Bradshaw and Dr Lenka Vodstrcil say the standard practice of treating BV as an imbalance (disruption) to the vaginal microbiome means that more than 50 per cent of women get it back within three months a er the standard week-long treatment of an oral antibiotic.
In their trial of 164 couples with BV in monogamous relationships, they found that treating BV as an STI, with both sexual partners treated simultaneously, achieves signi cantly higher cure rates than the current practice of only treating women.
In fact, they stopped the trial early when it became clear that BV recurrence was halved in the partner treatment group compared to treating women alone.
“This successful intervention is relatively cheap and short and has the potential for the rst time to not only improve BV cure for women, but opens up exciting new opportunities for BV prevention, and prevention of the serious complications associated with BV,” Professor Bradshaw said.
In the multicentre randomised trial, all women received rst-line recommended antibiotics. Male partners were randomly assigned to either partner-treatment, where they received both an oral antibiotic and a topical antibiotic cream for one week, or to a control group. The control group for this trial received female antibiotic treatment only and no partner-treatment, which is the global recommended practice. Couples only took antibiotics for one week but were then followed up for 12 weeks to establish how e ective this intervention was in curing BV over 3 months.
Dr Vodstrcil said having BV was already known to increase the risk of contracting other STIs.
“We’ve suspected for a long time
Our trial has shown that reinfection from partners is causing a lot of the BV recurrence women experience, and provides evidence that BV is in fact an STI.
- PROFESSOR CATRIONA BRADSHAW
that it’s a sexually transmitted infection (STI), because it has a similar incubation period (a er sex) to most STIs and is associated with the same risk factors as STIs like chlamydia, such as change in sexual partner and not using condoms.”
Professor Bradshaw said while studies have shown that men may harbor bacterial species associated with bacterial vaginosis on the penile skin and inside the penis, previous trials that included male partners did not show improved cure rates in their female partners.
“This was interpreted as evidence against sexual transmission,” Professor Bradshaw said.
“However, these studies had de-
sign limitations, and none used a combination of oral and topical antibiotics to adequately clear BV bacteria in men, especially from the penile-skin site.
“Our trial has shown that reinfection from partners is causing a lot of the BV recurrence women experience, and provides evidence that BV is in fact an STI.”
“Part of the di culty in establishing whether BV is sexually transmitted has been that we still don’t know precisely which bacteria are the cause, but advances in genomic sequencing are helping us close in on that mystery,” Professor Bradshaw said.
The results have already led to the
Melbourne Sexual Health Centre changing its clinical practice to treat couples. A new website for health professionals and consumers provides all the information needed to prescribe and access partner treatment.
“This information has been co-designed with consumers and participants in the trial and health professionals to make it accessible to all,”
Professor Bradshaw said.
“Changes in national and international treatment guidelines always take time, so we felt an obligation to provide accurate online and downloadable information at the time that the results of the trial are published.”
Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, Assistant Minister for Indigenous Health, Ged Kearney said the Monash study has revealed how a simple change in treatment can make a signi cant di erence for women.
“Bacterial vaginosis is a common condition that can have serious consequences for women, such as early pregnancy loss and premature labour. It’s critical that we have a more e ective way to treat it,” she said.
Acting Children’s Guardian appointed across NSW
The state minister for families and communities has announced a new Acting Children’s Guardian, following “serious and disturbing” allegations levelled against the previous guardian, Stephen Kinmond. Kate Washington said in a statement that Mr Kinmond would ‘step aside’ from the role while the inquiry was taking place, to interrogate accusations
“The Governor of NSW appointed Ms Rachael Ward as the Acting Children’s Guardian while a Special Ministerial Inquiry is conducted into the O ce of the Children’s Guardian,” Ms Washington said
“Ms Ward has more than 23 years’ experience specialising in child protection law and is a member of the Children’s Court Advisory Committee. She has, most recently, served as Director of Child Law within the Department of Communities and Justice.
The Children’s Guardian and the o ce of the children’s guardian form a statutory state government agency which oversees organisations that provide services to children. The o ce of the children’s guardian manage working with children’s checks, voluntary and statutory outof-home care, and reducing the risks of harm at home for children.
Key responsibilities include promoting the quality of child safe practices, , educating employers and organisations, monitoring organisations and individuals to achieve child-centered culture and compliance and working to facilitate sector-wide cultural change to achieve safe places for children.
“I am con dent Ms Ward’s knowledge and experience will be an asset to the O ce of the Children’s Guardian during this time,” Ms Washington said.
Authors Professor Catriona Bradshaw and Dr Lenka Vodstrcil.
APPLICATIONS to apply for funding from the Rabo Community Fund in 2025 have opened to rural and regional community organisations and initiatives making a meaningful contribution to ‘the bush’.
Launched by agribusiness bank Rabobank in 2021, the fund has to date invested more than $3 million into initiatives designed to support the vitality and sustainability of rural and regional communities across Australia.
To be considered, eligible applicants must have an initiative that aligns with addressing one of the six key themes. The organisations applying must be Australian based with an Australian Business Number (ABN), and the minimum investment amount per initiative is $5,000.
Rabobank regional manager for Australia and New Zealand, Mark Wiessing said the Rabo Community Fund demonstrated Rabobank’s commitment to a thriving and sustainable rural sector.
“As one of the world’s largest cooperative banks, supporting rural communities is ingrained
in our global mission,” he said.
“Over the past three years, these initiatives have included diverse topics from improving nancial literacy, educating careers’ teachers on the diverse and exciting career pathways in agriculture available to students and facilitating events that connect people and promote wellbeing.”
Since launching, the fund has successfully partnered with organisations such as George the Farmer, Boys to the Bush and Heart of Australia.
Rabobank head of community and client engagement
Glenn Wealands said: “the bank is proud to be able to providenancial support to these organisations that are undertaking important work in rural communities”.
Mr Wealands said to date, the Rabo Community Fund had donated almost 6000 George the Farmer books to preschools and primary schools across Australia.
The Rabo Community Fund has also been providing nancial support to Boys to the Bush, an organisation focused on pre-
Fund applications open for rural initiatives
vention and early intervention strategies for disconnected boys across New South Wales and Victoria.
“Boys to the Bush has impacted over 7000 lives through involvement in camps, mentoring programs, school and education programs, alternative care arrangements and community engagement days,” Mr Wealands said.
The fund’s support allowed the Riverina-based organisation to establish a new “community hub” in Wagga Wagga in late 2023 – o ering preventive interventions for males aged between nine and 22.”
Mr Wealands invited rural and regional community organisations and initiatives that t the application criteria to consider applying for funding from the Rabo Community Fund. Applications close on Thursday, May 1, 2025. Further information and application forms can be found on the Rabobank website
Rabobank regional manager for Australia and New Zealand, Mark Wiessing.
The NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water is inviting community members from across the region to attend upcoming information sessions on the development of the full business case for the proposed Belubula Water Security Project.
The drop-in sessions are an opportunity for the community to receive information about project planning, ask questions and provide feedback to the project team.
The sessions are being held in:
Orange: Tuesday 25 March 2025 any time between 12 pm to 5 pm at the Orange Central Square
Shopping Centre (227 Summer Street, Orange)
Canowindra: Wednesday 26 March 2025 any time between 10:30 am to 12:30 pm at CWA
Canowindra Branch Hall (14 Blatchford Street, Canowindra)
Bathurst: Wednesday 26 March 2025 any time between 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm at Central
Tablelands Collection Facility, Learning/Workshop space (20 Leena Street, Bathurst)
Blayney: Thursday 27 March 2025 any time between 11 am to 2 pm at Blayney Shire Community Centre (41 Church Street, Blayney)
Online: Tuesday 1 April 2025 online from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm AEDT. Registration is required.
Community members are also invited to complete a feedback survey available on the project webpage.
About the project
The proposed Belubula Water Security Project aims to improve water availability and increased drought resilience for residents, businesses and the environment across the Belubula Valley.
This important initiative is investigating options aligned with the draft Lachlan Regional Water Strategy and the Macquarie-Castlereagh Regional Water Strategy.
The 4 options being investigated include:
• a new pipeline between Lake Rowlands Dam and Carcoar Dam to transfer up to 2 gigalitres of water per year, capturing spills and boosting supply
• raising the Lake Rowlands Dam wall to increase storage from 4.5 gigalitres to 8 gigalitres
• building a new dam 2.5 kilometres downstream of Lake Rowlands
• connecting the Belubula and Macquarie valleys through an interregional pipeline.
The department is working with WaterNSW and Central Tablelands Water on this project.
AS we move through 2025, I remain committed to advocating for the needs of our region and ghting for the issues that matter most to our communities.
In my recent sittings in Parliament, I have raised critical concerns a ecting the Central West - from improving road safety and strengthening regional health services to pushing for vital reforms in mental health legislation and advocating for life-saving measures in schools and aged care facilities.
The tragic loss of lives on our roads, particularly on Lake Canobolas Road, highlights the urgent need for greater investment in road infrastructure and safety measures to prevent further heartbreak in our community.
I have called for a comprehensive review of road conditions and increased state funding to upgrade critical road networks in the region.
FORENSIC PATIENT SECURITY
The security and wellbeing of regional communities remain a top priority.
Minister Rose Jackson introduced a bill to parliament which substantially addressed the management of forensic mental health patients and access to social media.
I strongly supported this legislative reform, and I am pleased to advise that this bill passed the NSW Legislative Assembly, unopposed.
This now means that forensic patients are better managed, and the community is a orded greater protection - which better aligns with community expectations.
I also called for additional protections for the community through amendments to the Mental Health Legislation Amendment Bill 2024, ensuring that forensic patients granted leave from mental health facilities are electronically monitored to prevent situations like those we have recently witnessed.
While my amendment to mandate ankle bracelets was voted down, I will not give up on pushing for commonsense reforms that prioritise community safety over awed administrative processes.
LIFEVAC
Our community has also faced devastating losses due to child choking incidents, and I have been working to push for the introduction of LifeVac airway clearance devices in schools, childcare centres, and aged care facilities. Simple, a ordable measures like this could prevent future tragedies and give our children and vulnerable people a greater chance of survival in an emergency.
NSW FARMERS BEING LEFT IN THE DUST
I once again called on the NSW Government to act on my virtual fencing reform initiative. This ag technology is already advancing in QLD, WA, and Victoria. NSW farmers are at a competitive
disadvantage while outdated legislation stalls access to this innovative livestock management tool.
Last week, I asked the Minister for Agriculture what steps her department has taken following the 2024 parliamentary report on virtual fencing, and whether work has yet commenced on developing a code of practice.
Like many frustrated farmers, I await her response.
FREE GRANT WRITING WORKSHOP
Have you been frustrated when applying for grants, and disappointed to be told you’ve been unsuccessful a er you’ve done all of the hard yakka putting a submission together?
You’re de nitely not on your own! I hear this routinely from many frustrated grant applicants.
To help remedy this I will be hosting my second annual Grant Writing Workshop.
Expert tuition will be delivered by the guru - professional grant writer Keith
Whelan, aka The Grants Guy, to help you achieve increased chances of success on your next grant application.
The comprehensive 3-hour grant writing workshop will be held in Orange Ex-Services Club’s Greenhouse Function Room, 231-243 Anson Street Orange, commencing 6pm sharp on Wednesday 9th April 2025, bump-in from 5.30pm.
This event is completely free-of-charge.
Positions for this workshop are limited to organisations based in the Orange electorate.
There will be limited spots, so get in quick to reserve your place - BOOKINGS are ESSENTIAL.
Light refreshments will be served for participants during an intermission.
To avoid disappointment, book your place at this unique and informative event by contacting my ofce by email orange@parliament.nsw.gov.au
RSVP by COB Monday 24th March 2025
There are three seat belts on the seat, enough for students sitting by themselves or in twos or threes
Gun Club Central Championship CONTRIBUTED
It was very pleasing to be able to welcome 16 shooters to the Club on Saturday 1 March for the monthly competition. Considering the extremely hot conditions, those present enjoyed the friendly afternoon.
The day commenced with the Annual General Meeting of the Club and saw the return of the executive for another year. President is Mick Crowe, Treasurer Ewen Dun and Secretary, Jenny Mould. Once again, the Club reported on a very stable 2024 of competition and are looking forward to a similar 2025. The program of events featured the Central Zone Mixed Targets Championship. This consists of 10 double barrel targets, 10 single barrel, 10 pointscore and 5 pair of double rise and can be quite the challenge. Local shooter, Tony O’Leary took out the event with an outstanding score of 59/60. Congratulations Tony on a fine display of clay target marksmanship also taking out the High Gun for the day with a score of 121/125.
Other local competitors to do well included Malcolm Drury, Mick Crowe, Michael O’Leary, Stephen Gittoes and Col O’Leary. Our next competition on Saturday 5 April will feature the Commonwealth 50 target Pointscore Continental Championship as well as the Central Tablelands Double Barrel Championship and we hope to see quite a few here to vie for these prestigious titles. For full results and more photos, please visit the Club Facebook page.
If you would like more information about clay target shooting, please contact the President, Mick Crowe via our email cowragunclub@gmail.com Targets championship.
Dear Parents and Guardians, By law, all drivers and passengers must use the seat belts in any vehicle that is fitted with them.
Students on the bus have the expectation that they must wear the seatbelts while travelling on the bus. While bus drivers will verbally remind students to fasten their seatbelts, it is the student’s responsibility to buckle themselves in. The driver’s responsibility is to operate services safely and efficiently. The attention they need to give this will prevent them from being able to closely monitor or enforce students adherence.
It would be a great assistance if you can help by talking to your children about wearing their seat belts on the bus without waiting to be asked. It is just like getting in the car-if there is a seat belt on their seat, they need to buckle up.
If you would like any more information or would like to talk to us, please contact Cowra Bus Service on 0263 421021 and we will be happy to help.
PHOTO: Facebook
ST RAPHAEL’S
Our school gives us so many opportunities during our schooling years. We have many sporting opportunities like footy, soccer, netball and swimming and many more. We also have academic opportunities boosting students to get out of their comfort zones and try different things e.g. Spelling bees, public speaking, writing competitions and a Science and Engineering Challenge. Our school and teachers push us to the right limit. One of the best things about our school is our teachers are always there to encourage you. The teachers at this school are your loudest cheerleaders and they always have your back and are ALWAYS there to help. We at St Raphael’s have a great learning environment. We have a new basketball court and new sport ovals making our playgrounds amazing. The best thing about our school are the people. St Raphael’s is filled with many unique, kind and caring people who are there to make your life better. To conclude, all would like to say is how great our school is!!!
St. Raphael’s Catholic School is a magnificent environment! The teachers here are really supportive and always have a happy smile on their faces. At St Raphs there are massive sporting opportunities like dance, cheer and soon to be soccer, netball, swimming football and all sorts of things. In the academic world there are things like CWA public speaking, the Da Vinci Decathlon and spelling bees. I also bet all the other Year 7s are excited for our Year 7 Camp and Retreat Day! There’s a lot of fun waiting for us ahead! Here at St. Raphael’s Catholic School everyone has friends to hang out with and have lots of fun at lunch and recess. Overall, I think that our school has lots of things to do and is always a happy environment!
hen started at St Raphael’s I was welcomed by the friendly teachers who were very supportive and are dedicated to help students achieve their best in every subject. In the five weeks I have been here think our school is a great place to learn and grow. It has so many academic opportunities like the Science and Engineering Competition or the spelling bee. There are other things like cheerleading, band and dance. There is also a year seven camp and retreat day. know that the students here are valued and encouraged. We also have so many amazing facilities, including the science lab, kitchen, classrooms, a canteen and so much more. In conclusion, I think that St Raphael’s is an amazing school with welcoming teachers and students and is a great learning environment.
Andrea
Our school is a wonderful place to come to everyday. We have the most encouraging and helpful teachers. We have a lot of opportunities like the athletics carnival, spelling bees, writing competitions, public speaking competitions and lots of fun occasions like camps, or retreats. We have a great learning environment, a new basketball court which everyone loves, sports ovals and new science labs. All of our teachers and staff are very welcoming and supportive to each and every one of us. They love to see us succeed and grow, both academically and personally.
Claire
Our school is great because it has an enthusiastic and positive learning environment.
St Raphael’s has a lot of school spirit, at the swimming carnival we have competitions and a big crowd full of excited students and parents roaring and cheering for their friends and family while they swim their hearts out. The teachers at St Raphael’s always have a positive smile on their faces. The teachers are always eager to come to your table to help you when you need it. Our school has a lot of extra curriculums including cheer, band, dance and a lot more. That is why our school is Fantastic.
Patrick
Our school is so great because there are very caring students and very kind teachers. That’s not all, there is a wide opportunity for academics like science and engineering challenge, public speaking competition, spelling bee and more. If you enjoy sports more there is also a wide variety of sports like Rugby League, Soccer, Swimming my favorite, Athletics and way more sports. Maybe you like to play music or cheerleading or even dance. There are new facilities only eight years old, there is a basketball court freshly painted and a new science labs. The fun activities at camp that you do are amazing.
We are all so lucky to go to school at St Raphael’s.
Our school has so many opportunities, academic, sporting and religious, that anyone can participate in. We have great teaching facilities, such as large classrooms, refurbished basketball courts and great Food Tech/ Hospitality resources. Students at our school possess a strong sense of competitiveness and ambition, as well as good-sportsmanship and positivity. There are loads of retreats and excursions to take part in, like our Shiroishi/Cowra student exchange and a tour of Japan. The sporting opportunities are endless, with
St Raphael’s School in Cowra offers a supportive and exciting environment for students to grow. With a variety of academic and sporting opportunities, including science challenges, public speaking, swimming, and athletics, there’s something for everyone. The dedicated teachers create a positive
Firstly, our school is great because of the positive environment, which makes us strive for excellence.
Thereason I think that our school is so great is because all the people here are so welcoming and friendly. For example our teachers always help if we are in need of help whether it’s in class on the field they are always there with a helping hand. Such as our amazing Science lab, it always has big opportunities and learning growth. Also like when we step out onto the oval we have so many different occasions open for us to reach out and grab them for example: Rugby/League, Soccer, Swimming carnival, Athletics carnival, Basketball, Netball, League Tag, Touch Football and Tennis etc.
could go to at this school. We also have a great learning environment, we just got a brand new basketball court, a new science lab and new facilities. Overall, St Raphaels is such a wonderful school to be at with all these great things about it.
ur school is great because not only do we have new facilities like the Mother Scholastica learning centre, but we also have a new basketball court that is loved by many people. The academic opportunities however interest me the most, with the Science and Engineering Challenge and the Da Vinci Decathlon just to name a few. The amount of opportunities that are available is amazing, with cricket, touch football, netball, swimming, athletics and soccer just to name a few. All of this would not be possible without the amazing teachers, they are all encouraging and supportive of our schoolwork, they always help us to gain as much knowledge and experience as possible. In the end it’s not all sports and academics, we have our Year 7 camp and Year 7 Retreat. Overall our school is a great place to learn, have fun and experience new things.
Harper
believe our school is the most amazing because we have new facilities. Mother Scholastic Centre is only 8 years old, our basketball court is brand new, and our science labs are full with everything that high school science labs need. Our school has a wide selection of different sports like swimming carnivals, athletics carnivals, touch football, soccer, basketball and a lot of other sports to choose from. We also have a lot of other opportunities like spelling bees, public speaking, camps and alot more. Our teachers love watching us succeed and grow through everything. They are very supportive and never let us down or struggle. Our school has a great friendship quality. Everyone is there and no one is never not there. think our school is amazing and we have a lot of supportive members and have everything we need.
This positive environment is reinforced by the lovely teachers that work here that spread a supportive atmosphere around the school making students feel valued and have a positive outlook on the St Raphael’s schooling, they encourage students to do their best and help others who may need some more help! This positive environment makes students feel supported and encouraged not only by their friends and classmates but also their teachers. This encouragement can sprout into wanting to do extracurriculars of which our school offers throughout the school year. Not only do they have something for every type of student they also have a variety of extracurricular activities for academics, sport and music; if you like sport you have a whole platter of different extracurricular activities for you which include; dance, cheerleading, netball, football, soccer, tennis, touch footy and also golf! What if you’re a more academically inclined student? That would be no issue here at our great school. We have many extracurriculars to engage academically focused students which are; CWA public speaking, Da Vinci Decathlon, Science and Engineering Challenge, spelling bees, poetry and writing competition and last but not least, ‘Write a Book’ in a day challenge! But what if you want to do something related to music? No worries! We offer band and choir extracurricular’s. This is only what makes part of our wonderful school and we have many other awesome qualities for your children in St Raphael’s catholic school.
This is one that I admire the most is the academic environment of our school, not just in our school but outside of our school too such as Science and Engineering Challenges, Public speaking competitions, Spelling bees and our writing competitions too. We have great excursions that you can take on board for a new adventure outside of our learning criteria. St Raphael’s great learning environment for instance our new facilities, sports oval,new basketball court and our new science labs. Some sports that our teachers take time out of their lunch breaks to do things such as dance band and cheer with Mrs Flanagan. We also have very uplifting teacher to support us like when we are doing the 1500m race at the Athletics carnival and we’ve got the very last 100 meters to go and the joy and smile just kicks your head back in the race to finish that final 100m that you thought you wouldn’t make it but you did. We also always say a big
sporting carnivals and their school at other levels of sport. There are many opportunities whether you like public speaking, spelling, writing poems, dancing, sport or science and engineering, St Rapheals can provide all of that. As a Year 7 student at St Raphaels am amazed by how lovely the school is. That is why St Raphaels is an amazing school.
Gaella
Literacy Improvement at St Raphael’s
IMPROVING literacy continues to be a central priority at St Raphael’s in 2025. As part of our ongoing commitment to educational excellence, our secondary teachers have worked consistently to implement strategies within the classroom and our assessment programs, which focus on enhancing students’ literacy skills.
Our dedication to literacy development has already resulted in positive outcomes, with many students demonstrating signi cant academic growth throughout 2024. Our students have shown notable progress in their understanding of subject speci c vocabulary, improved writing structure and the ability to break down complex writing tasks. This focus on literacy has not only strengthened students’ reading and writing abilities, but has also had a positive impact on their overall academic condence and achievement.
To support this progress, secondary teachers have undertaken Professional Learning (PL) in Term 1, targeting literacy improvement, with additional PL opportunities planned throughout the year.
In 2025, our Stage 4 students can expect to concentrate on paragraph structure and vocabulary in their classes. Stage 5 students will focus on understanding and applying NESA verbs in their writing. Stage 6 students will continue to work on mastering complex writing tasks and participate in a series of Writing Workshops.
St Raphael’s remains committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring that literacy remains a top priority for all students and sta .
Numeracy checks trialed in public schools
A NEW screening check to track Year 1 students’ early progress in numeracy will be trialled across 150 public schools, to help bring up NAPLAN results in primary age students.
plete with each student and will focus on foundational number sense skills that are key to later success in maths and numeracy, providing an opportunity for early intervention to ensure all
require targeted assistance, such as
First parent, teacher, student meetings at CPS
2025 Parent-Teacher-Student Meetings
LAST Wednesday, CPS hosted the rst of two Learning Support Plan (LSP) meetings, Personalised Learning Pathway (PLP) meetings, Three-way Interviews (3WI) and Individual Education Plan (IEP) meetings with students and parents. Thank you to all families who have already booked a meeting online!
The second a ernoon of meetings will be held on Wednesday 12th March from 3:30-6:30pm. If you haven’t yet booked an interview, there is still plenty of time - just go to the Sentral for Parents app or contact the school on 63422400 and we will t you in.
Infants Meetings will be held in the Infants Building (Open Space and Classrooms)
Primary Meetings will be held in the Hall.
Entry to the school will be via the
Coles Carpark gate or Brisbane St gate.
There will be no entry via the Vaux St admin gate. Meetings will run for 15 minutes each.
A free sausage sizzle will be provided for all students and family members who attend.
If you require transport, or need help with the online booking process, please contact the school on 63422400 or Miss Elbourne, our Aboriginal Education Ofcer on 04476 178 792
A HUGE thank you to our teachers for their time and e ort in preparing and hosting these important meetings. We look forward to working together to help your child achieve their goals in 2025.
Charles and George McAuley, along with mum Courtney, attended the Parent-Student-Teacher meetings at CPS last week.
MEEKNESS is a characteristic that has fallen out of favour in modern times. A world that is training itself to be pumped up, assertive and self promoting is all at sea with what meekness is about, and it sees it not as a quality, but as a sign of feebleness and timidity and taking the weak way out.
When Jesus gave his Sermon on the Mount and told the crowd “Blessed are the meek”, it didn’t sound like he was telling them about something that was going to be easy to do. It came straight after telling them they would be blessed if they abandoned their pride and mourned instead, and shifting along on that same theme, he geared it up again. They were also to be meek.
Away from its present day associations, where its
FOCUS ON LIVING
“Meekness
Not Weakness”
meaning is more to do with failure, it simply meant gentleness and mildness. Jesus presented it as a positive quality. The interesting thing is, gentleness has a lot to do with confidence. An individual at ease with himself and others feels no inner pressure to strive or play act. He has a realistic view of his position in the cosmos, and greater sensitivity to his fellow man.
Full on, totally committed self-assertiveness is tiresome to behold, and often springs from self-doubt. There is nothing so wearying to onlookers and practitioners alike. Brashness or rudeness may be only a stone’s throw away.
In the beatitudes, Jesus created a series of steps to help his audience understand that what may
check students’ number understand-
numbers, and how numbers can be for example adding 2 and 4 makes 6.
“Literacy and numeracy skills are the foundations of an education that sets children up for life. The [government] wants to ensure students are on track early on, so all children have the opportunity to succeed,” deputy premier and education minister Prue
“That is why we are trialling the introduction of a Number Screening Check in Year 1 which, along with the existing Phonics Screening Check, will serve as an important tool for teachers, enabling them to assess the foundational skill development of our young learners.
“We know that early intervention is crucial for students needing additional support – the earlier we identify children who need attention, the more chance they have to succeed.
The trial, launching in Term 2, follows an early pilot across 19 schools in November 2024, the purpose of which was to develop the content, structure and mechanics of the check. The department will further refine the details of the check using feedback from the trial.
Resources to help schools implement and respond to assessment results will also be developed during the pilot.
The Year 1 Number Screening Check will support the existing Year 1 Phonics Screening Check, providing teachers with an early view of individual students’ progress and an opportunity to intervene in their development of these foundational skills of literacy and numeracy.
seem like a loss to them in denying themselves, was actually to their benefit and happiness. Only by increasing their awareness of the early steps could they ever manage making it to middle ground, and only by their gaining that territory could they ever manage something really difficult. Meekness was going to be necessary before they could ever have a true understanding of righteousness.
“Blessed are the meek”, Jesus said, “for they will inherit the Earth”. We may not understand the manner of that promise, and dogmas many and varied have been built on it, but it’s certain that the results of applying gentleness and mildness can be enjoyed right away in the here-and-now.
The Cowra Church of Christ sponsors this article. The church meets on the second and last Sunday of the month at the Nguluway Meeting Room between the Library and the Art Gallery, Darling Street, Cowra. Starting times: Church Service 10:00am, Morning Tea 11:00am. Everyone is welcome. Enquiries phone: 0439 401 813, or e-mail: cowrachurchofchrist@gmail.com.
Mrs Kathryn Keefe: Literacy Lead Teacher at St Raphael’s Catholic School.
Rosnay taps in to new vintage
ROSNAY has tapped their 2025 vintage and featured touring band, ‘Those Folk’ - a husband & wife musical duo comprised of songwriters and multiinstrumentalists, Lawrence Menard and Clare Quinn. A partnership forged in the fires of folk music, their songwriting explores love, hope, belonging, and the human condition.
Breathtaking vocal harmonies are featured alongside guitar, accordion, mandolin & banjo. The duo are now heading to Katoomba for the 28th Blue Mountains music festival. Music, artwork and nibbles will continue at Rosnay, with artist Donna McLaughlin visiting on March 22, and Flickerfest in April 2025.
Brett Larkin and Oliver Statham.
Henry and Kaiya visiting from Melbourne.
Harold, Susan, Jeanie, Varis, Catherine and Pennie Scott.
Harold, Susan and Jeanie.
‘Those Folk’ musicians, Lawrence Menard and Clare Quinn.
PHOTOS: Dan Ryan
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Coolmore Classic and Peter Young Stakes. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 7.30 MOVIE: RED. (2010) Bruce Willis, Mary-Louise Parker. 9.45 MOVIE: Atomic Blonde. (2017) Charlize Theron, James McAvoy. 12.05 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Better Homes. 3.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 5.00 Horse Racing. Coolmore Classic and Peter Young Stakes. 6.00 Dog Patrol. 6.30 Bondi Vet. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 10.30 I Escaped To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 My Way. 1.00 Let’s Eat With George. 1.30 Hybrid Horizons. 2.00 The Pet Rescuers. 2.30 Bondi Vet. 3.30 David Attenborough’s Mammals. 4.30 The Garden Gurus. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Space Invaders. 8.30 MOVIE: San Andreas. (2015) Dwayne Johnson, Carla Gugino. 10.45 MOVIE: Volcano. (1997) 12.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Blokesworld. 1.30 Cool Cars & Bikes. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Motor Racing. National Drag Racing Championship. Round 2. New Year Nitro. 4.00 Carnage. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Football. AFL. Round 1. Sydney v Brisbane Lions. 9.00 MOVIE: Total Recall. (1990) 11.25 Late Programs.
6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Death In Paradise. 1.30 Poh’s Kitchen. 2.00 Under The Vines. 2.45 Extraordinary Escapes. 3.40 The Role Of A Lifetime. 4.30 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. Final. 5.30 Landline. 6.00 Australian Story. 6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Death In Paradise. 8.30 Vera. 10.00 The Newsreader. Final. 11.00 Unforgotten. Final. 11.50 Rage. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 4.05 Grace’s Amazing Machines. 4.20 Odd Squad. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Thomas. 5.50 Paddington. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.30 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.10 Chopped Jnr. 8.55 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.35 Speechless. 10.00 Officially Amazing Goes Bunkers. 10.25 Dragon Ball Super. 10.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Beat Bugs. 9.00 Get Clever. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success. 12.00 Malaysia Kitchen. 12.30 Dream Home. 2.10 Holey Moley Australia. 3.40 Britain’s Got Talent. 5.40 MOVIE: Stuart Little. (1999) 7.30 MOVIE: A Knight’s Tale. (2001) 10.15 MOVIE: The Count Of Monte Cristo. (2002) 12.55 Late Programs. 6.00 Camper Deals. 6.30 Reel Action. 7.00 On The Fly. 7.30 Escape Fishing With ET. 8.00 IFISH. 8.30 Farm To Fork. 9.00 My Market Kitchen. 9.30
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.35 Doctor Who. 3.25 A Bite To Eat. 3.55 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. 4.35 MythBusters. 5.30 Heartbreak High. 7.00 Spicks And Specks. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (NZ) 8.45 Ab Fab. 10.15 ER. 11.00 Ghosts. 11.30 Rage. 12.35 Heartbreak High. 1.20 Late Programs.
5.05 A Dog’s World With Tony Armstrong. 6.00 Antiques Roadshow. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Darby And Joan. Return. 8.20 Unforgotten. Return. 9.05 Boat Story. New. 10.05 MOVIE: The Turning. (2013) 1.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 3.50 Doctor Who. 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Heartbreak High. 7.00 Spicks And Specks. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Louis Theroux: Drinking To Oblivion. 9.00 Planet America: Weekend Edition. 9.50 ER. 10.30 Ghosts. 11.00
12.50 QI. 1.20
2.55
2.10
Kids’ Programs. 4.20
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 MOVIE: Mr Forbush And The Penguins. (1971) 3.10 MOVIE: Fire Over Africa. (1954) 4.50 MOVIE: Kings Of The Sun. (1963) 7.00 Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. Round 5. Queensland Reds v NSW Waratahs. 9.30 Super Rugby Pacific PostMatch. 9.45 MOVIE: Rocky III. (1982) 11.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Mass For You At Home. 6.30 Key Of David. 7.00 Joseph Prince: New Creation Church. 7.30 Farm To Fork. 8.00 The Yes Experiment. 8.30 Motor Racing. Formula 1. Australian Grand Prix. Day 3. 5.00 10 News First. 6.00 The Sunday Project. 7.00 Australian Survivor. 8.30 Matlock. 9.30 FBI. 11.30 The Sunday Project. 12.30
Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Cycling. ProVelo Super League. 4.00 Yachting. Vendee Globe. H’lights. 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Strade Bianche Women. H’lights. 5.30 Hitler: Decoding A Dictator. 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Ancient Greece By Train. 8.25 Alhambra:
Squad. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 The Monster At The End Of This Story. 5.50 Paddington. 6.40 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Horrible Histories. 8.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.10 Abbott Elementary. 9.55 Speechless. 10.20 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs.
Pre-Game. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 1. Melbourne v GWS Giants. 6.00 The Wash Up. New. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: A Good Day To Die Hard. (2013) 10.35 MOVIE: Big Trouble In Little China. (1986) 12.45 Late Programs. 6.00 Hello SA. 6.30 A Current Affair. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Wide World Of Sports. 11.00 NRL Sunday Footy Show. 1.00 Fish Forever. 1.30 Drive TV: Drive Car Of The Year. 2.00 Oz Off Road TV. 3.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 2. Parramatta Eels v Wests Tigers. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Married At First Sight. 8.40 60 Minutes. 9.40 9News Late. 10.10 See No Evil. 11.10 The First 48. 12.00 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 The Incredible Journey. 9.00 Turning Point. 9.30 TV Shop. 10.00 AFL Sunday Footy Show. 12.00 Getaway. 12.30 Avengers. 1.30 Dad’s Army. 2.00 MOVIE: West Of Zanzibar. (1954) 4.00 MOVIE: What Did You Do In The War, Daddy? (1966) 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: The Fugitive. (1993) 11.10 The Closer. 12.10 Late Programs. 6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Beat Bugs. 9.00 Get Clever. 10.00 Holey Moley Australia. 11.30 Dream Home. 1.10 Zumbo’s Just Desserts. 2.20 Home And Away. 4.20 TBA. 5.30 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. 6.30 Puppy School. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. 10.30 Bones. 12.30 The Blacklist. 1.30 Ordinary Joe. 2.30 Prison Break.
both personal and professional, to see where problems might exist and how they can be overcome. Keep the lines of communication open.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) It’s not easy to bring order to a chaotic situation, whether it’s in the workplace or at home. But if anyone can do it, you can! A pleasant surprise awaits you by week’s end.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Be careful that you don’t make an upcoming decision solely on the word of those who might have their own reasons for wanting you to act as they suggest. Check things out for yourself.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A personal relationship that seems to be going nowhere could be restarted once you know why it stalled. An honest discussion could result in some surprising revelations.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) An unexpected attack of self-doubt could be a way of warning yourself to go slow before making a career-changing decision. Take more time to do a closer study of the facts.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) A workplace problem needs your attention now before it deteriorates to a point beyond repair. A trusted third party could be helpful in closing the gaps that have opened.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A recent family situation could give rise to a new problem. Keep an open mind and avoid making judgments about anyone’s motives until all the facts are in.
SCORPIO (October
Agent’s Choice
Lyndhurst
DUNOON’ 21 MEADOWS LANE, LYNDHURST
bed 4 | bath 3 | car 4 | � 82ha (200acres*)*
AUCTION / 11am Friday 4th April 2025
AGENT / Agri Rural NSW - Josh Keefe 0436 926 866
OPEN FOR INSPECTION / Contact Agent
WEBSITE / agriruralnsw.com
Positioned within a highly reliable, elevated Central Tablelands position between Cowra & Blayney. ‘Dunoon’ provides 200 acres of high quality red basalt & mixed loam soils, ideal for farming and/or grazing. There is a comfortable 4 bedroom family home, with a spacious living and dining space complete with a woodfire. The master bedroom has large built in wardrobes and an ensuite bathroom. The property offers an excellent water supply via 7 dams, stock & domestic bore and pump equip dam which pump to a header tank and reticulates to 4 new concrete troughs. The home has 3 rainwater tanks being some 67,000ltrs* also. The land is divided into 7 well fenced paddocks, with substantial new fencing completed, along with a centralised laneway for ease of livestock management. The property is perfectly suited for both cattle and or sheep, and includes all steel cattle yards and loading ramp, with good truck access & sealed road frontage to the property.
5 - 7 MACQUARIE STREET 1,635sqm* PRICE / $1,100,000
FOR INSPECTION / By Appointment WEBSITE / emmsmooney.eldersrealestate.com.au
Lifestyle: A potential ‘Blue Chip’ commercial investment opportunity in Central West NSW. Features: Don’t miss out on this exceptional investment opportunity. The Salvation Army have been a long term established tenant with over 20 years of occupancy and has recently renewed their lease to a 5 year lease with two (2) further five (5) year options till February 204. Figures include a secure gross return of approx. 7.16% per annum, gross income of $78,786.88 (exclusive of GST) per annum with a fixed 3% annual rent increase ensuring growth on return. There is future development potential with approximately 1,635m2 of land in the CBD. Another feature is the substantial 40m of Macquarie Street frontage and rear lane access via Doust Lane. Continue to lease as a whole or there is potential of splitting into four separate tenants in the future.
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
1 Name the English poet, biographer, and essayist, (Henry) Austin ... (6)
8 Which early English king was known as the “Unready” (8)
9 What is an image cast on the ground by a body intercepting light (6)
10 Rwanda is adjacent to which East African republic (8)
11 What is the term applied to an animal or plant lacking pigmentation (6)
12 Name a part of speech (4)
13 What are medals known as (coll) (5)
16 Which board is used to file fingernails (5)
19 Name the track over which horseraces are run (4)
21 Which man was formerly employed as a harem attendant (6)
22 What is a long-distance race (8)
23 What are moral obligations (6)
24 Which term describes the distance upwards (8)
25 What is something unusual (6) DOWN
2 Which Shakespearean character was the Moor of Venice (7)
3 What, in NZ, is a steep ridge (7)
5 Which colourless, volatile, flammable liquid hydrocarbon is obtained chiefly from coal tar (7)
6 Which colour is tawny, with darker streaks (7)
7 Name a term describing “perfectly” (7)
15 What is an enactment made by a legislature, and expressed in a formal document (7)
17 Name a province in the south-western Republic of Ireland (7)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
(b)
(c)High commendation
4 Name a former Australian TV entertainer and compere, Bert ... (6)
13 What is syntax also known as (7)
E-QUATIONS 7
14 What salt is used in a fertiliser (7)
Letters have a number value
Some valuesare in the righthand cells. Create remaining values using cluesin centre cells.
E-QUATIONS
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
18 Which term describes the wealthiest (7)
20 What, in the USA, do they call a mudguard of a motor vehicle (6)
2 FURACIOUS (a)In a state of fear (b) Very angry (c) Thievish
BIYWORD
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:
Deliver formally to (7)
Dogs: mottled coat colour (5)
Existing (5)
Large group (3)
Ovum (3)
Particular point of view (7)
Restore (5)
Round-based cook pot (3)
Sales representative (abb) (3)
Sound of a plucked string (5)
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
CANOWINDRA SERVICES & CITIZENS CLUB Gaskill Street, Canowindra NSW 2804 NOTICE OF 53nd ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
NOTICE is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of The Canowindra Service and Citizens Club Limited will be held in the Club on Sunday 30th March 2025 at 11am
This
31 Rothbury RD, Cowra, that 1080 (sodium fluoroacetate) baits will be laid on the abovementioned property between the following dates 15/3/2025 - 21/3/2025.
Property owners are warned their domestic pet and working dogs may be affected. Seek veterinary advice in the event of poisoning. 1080 poisoned baits will be laid in accordance with the current 1080 Pesticide Control Order under Section 38 Pesticides Act 1999. For further information contact: David Fagan 0418 208 021
Any member who may desire to submit any motion of query to be considered or dealt with, shall give complete and precise notice in writing to the Secretary by Friday 21st March 2025.
David FERGUSON Died 27th February 2025, aged 92 years.
Late of Walker St, Cowra. Loving husband of Nettie (dec) and beloved father and father-in-law of George (dec) and Aileen. Gramps to Eryn and Karl, Lib and Dave, Anna and Shaun. Adored GG of Andy, Harrie and Mattie.
David’s family and friends are respectfully invited to attend his service to be held in the Waratah Chapel, Philpott’s Funeral Home Cowra, commencing at 10:00am on Monday 17th March 2025. Thence for private cremation.
Richard Arthur NASH
Passed away 6th March 2025, aged 81 years.
Late of Tilga St, Canowindra and formerly of “Macquarie Fields”, Toogong. Beloved husband of Christine (Dec) and a loving father and father in-law of Ben and Tamara, Alex and Kylie, James and Sally. Grandfather to Lucinda, Molly, Hugh, Isla and Harry.
Richard’s family and friends are respectfully invited to attend his Memorial Service to be held at the Cranbury Uniting Church, Cranbury commencing at 11.30am on Friday 14th March 2025.
DANCE education o ers tremendous bene ts for kindergarten students, supporting their development across physical, social, and emotional domains. Cowra Ballet School, with its comprehensive range of dance styles, provides an ideal environment for young children to ourish.
Building Bodies and Minds Through Movement Research consistently shows that structured dance programs help kindergarteners develop crucial motor skills during this formative period. Education specialists have stated that dance engages the whole body in ways that traditional classroom activities simply cannot.
At Cowra Ballet School, kindergarteners participate in age-appropriate classes that strengthen coordination, balance, and spatial awareness. The school’s approach ensures children develop physical literacy in enjoyable, non-competitive settings.
“We’ve designed our kindergarten program to build condence through movement mastery,” explains Cowra Ballet School Owner and Principal
Hayley Barker. “Children learn to control their bodies while expressing themselves creatively.”
Social Skills Take Center Stage
Beyond physical bene ts, dance classes at Cowra Ballet School foster essential social development. Students learn to take turns, follow instructions, and work cooperatively with peers - skills that translate directly to classroom success.
“Dance requires children to be present with others in a shared space,” Barker notes. “Our students develop awareness of themselves and their classmates, creating a foundation for positive social interactions.”
Parents have observed remarkable growth in their children’s ability to communicate and collaborate. “Since joining Cowra Ballet School, my daughter has become more comfortable speaking up and working with others, despite her troubles at school” shares local parent, Erin.
Emotional Expression Through Movement
Perhaps most signi cantly, dance provides kindergarteners with healthy outlets for
STINGRAYS COMPETE AT SPEEDO SPRINTS
THE Stingrays swim team put on a phe nomenal display at the Speedo Sprints held at SOPAC, with every swimmer achieving personal bests in their races.
Competing against some fast and talented swimmers, the team showcased their speed and skill in the pool as well as their sportsmanship and determination.
Coach Brooke was said to be very proud of the team, not only how they raced but also how they conducted themselves in amongst the competition.
The Stingray’s swimmers who delivered great performances were: Evie, Jack, Charlie, Pat
With their impressive results and continued progress, the team is looking ahead to even greater achievements in the pool!
▶ Evie, Jack, Charlie and Pat at the Speedo Sprints.
AS expected, the 40th Annual Cowra Festival 4’s was highly successful again. A er six gruelling rounds the undefeated winners were the team of Dick Je ries, Josh Andriske, Al Andriske and Cooper McMullen from Dubbo, with the only other undefeated team of Richard Girvan, Leif Selby, Russ Nobes and Jake Graham from Nelson Bay relegated to second place.
Thanks again to all the bowlers that contested the event and many thanks to Mark and Tony for the fabulous greens, also the Club Management and sta for the drinks, meals and club presentation each day. Further thanks to the volunteers that undertook all the other activities around the club and greens each day, for the duration of the event, we couldn’t run the tournament without the volunteers.
We all look forward to next year’s 41st annual event.
emotional expression. Through Cowra Ballet School’s diverse program - o ering ballet, jazz/ hip hop, tap, and acro - children discover ways to communicate feelings that may be di cult to verbalize.
The ballet school’s supportive environment encourages selfexpression without judgment, helping children develop emotional resilience and self-regulation skills that bene t them
A Foundation for Lifelong Learning
Cowra Ballet School’s comprehensive approach ensures kindergarteners experience dance as both an art form and a foundation for broader development. Classes incorporate elements of music appreciation, storytelling, and cultural awareness alongside technical skills.
“We’re not just creating dancers,” Barker emphasises. “We’re nurturing confident, expressive children who develop a love for learning through movement.”
For local families seeking holistic development opportunities for their kindergarteners, Cowra Ballet School o ers programs designed speci cally for young learners, with classes available for kindergarten students speci cally.
To learn more about how dance can bene t your kindergartener’s development, contact Cowra Ballet School for information about their kindergarten programs.
0400 306 309 cowraballet@gmail.com
Canowindra Bowls
FIRSTLY we would like to express our sympathy to the Bryant family on the recent passing of Ronnie Bryant.Ronnie born the 27/3/1956 and passed on the 26/2/2025 aged 69.
Ronnie has been a helpful to the Canowindra club over many years and will sorely missed.
Last weekend the number fives played Parkes Town club.
The score board changed several times during the game.
Parkes eventually won 66/58 with two rinks to one giving them a 9/1 win.
It will be very hard now for the Fives to go through to the playoffs.
The sevens had a bye and with result of other game s are in the on the scoreboard.
The selections of the teams have concentrated of qualification of player and given the sevens best opportunity to proceed to the next level.
The following teams were picked to play at Cowra on March 9 with a 11am start.
Grade 7 - vs Cowra: Mick T; Eryn; Nigel; Greg C; Tot; Clinka; Harry ; Jamie S; Marc S; Crock; Caine; Larry, Reserves: Leanne W, Sparky, Barry B, Mitch M, Cristy, Bob C, Graham, Greg W. Grade t - vs Cowra: Brent; Roger; Crowey; Jack; Phil L; Barney; Tony; Westy; Ken P; Ben; Jamie G; Bourkie.
Blues womens team preparing to start the season on May 3
The it was onto Saturdays 2nd round Men’s Club Singles matches with Shane Egan defeating John Bischof 25/12, Laurie Chew overcoming Shane Beasley 25/22, Ian (Wal) Walker beating Peter Browne 25/12, Paul Druery belatedly overcoming a determined Greg Nicholls 25/21, Braydon Chew battling against
Bruce Thurtell and winning 25/21, Noel Hubber defeated Ray Harper 25/10, Bob Morgan managed to out run Kak Smith 25/15 and Ken Porter had a walkover. Outstanding results in Sundays Pennant Matches all played at home. Grade 5 had an emphatic win over Canowindra 80/39, 10 points to 0, Grade 6 are in the
Events.
Saturday’s quarter nals matches of Men’s Open Singles will see Shane Egan v Laurie Chew, Marker John Bischof, Wal v Paul Druery, Marker Peter Browne, Ken Porter v Braydon Chew, Marker Bruce Thurtell and Noel Hubber v Bob Morgan, Marker Ray Harper. All matches should be good close matches.
On Sunday, our Grade 5 Pennant team will host Parkes B & S at home.
Sunday morning mixed social bowls will also be on, phone between 8.45am and 9.15am for 9.30am start.
Good bowling everyone until next week.
the 2025 season set to kick off on May 3, the Cowra AFL Women’s Blues are deep in preparation, putting in the hard work during preseason training and upcoming matches in Canberra.
The team is determined to improve on last year’s performance, with a strong focus on fitness, skills, and team cohesion.
Coach Marc Hyland is pleased with the progress the squad has made so far, especially with the addition of new players who have adapted quickly.
“Our numbers have actually started to pick up, with a few new faces at training,” Hyland
“We’ve been working hard on fitness, and our ball work and skills are already above where we were last year.”
“Everything we’ve built on from last season is preparing us well for this year.”
The team is showing increased determination and hunger, after coming close to securing more wins last season.
Hyland believes that extra effort in fitness and skill development will help them close the gap.
“We felt we should have won a few more games last year, and that’s been our motivation this season… To make sure our fitness is at the next level and our skills are sharper,” he said.
“The girls have a goal in mind, and they’re determined to get it done.”
One of the early challenges this season will be helping newer players adjust to the physical demands of the game.
“Some of the newer players haven’t experienced the physical side of the sport yet, but we’re doing drills at training to get them as prepared as possible,” Hyland said.
Despite this, he is confident that the squad will come together as a strong unit.
“I think we’ve got a whole team of players to watch this year,” he said.
“There won’t be just one or two standouts… We’ll have an entire team making an impact.”
The Blues are also eager to renew their rivalry with Orange, a team they split results with last year.
“Orange was our closest rival last year,” he said.
“We beat them once and narrowly lost another, so we’re looking forward to facing them again,” Hyland said.
“But you never know how teams will change with new and departing players, so we’re just excited to get back out there and compete.”
With the season approaching fast, the Blues are still welcoming new players and encourage anyone interested in joining the squad.
“It’s great to see new faces, and we’re always looking for more players,” Hyland said.
The Cowra Ballet School cherishes development in their younger students.
Forbes took the win at the Western Challenge
By CARA KEMP
THE Western Challenge XIV took place on Sunday, March 9, at Tom Clyburn Oval in Canowindra, where teams battled it out under hot conditions in a packed day of League Tag.
The tournament featured four pools of teams, with Pool A consisting of Manildra Rhinos, Forbes Magpies, Trundle Boomers, and Cargo Blue Heelers.
Pool B included Orange Warriors, Peak Hill Roosters, and Eugowra Golden Eagles.
Pool C saw Cowra Magpies, Bathurst St Pats, Molong Bulls, and Oberon Tigers compete, while Pool D was made up of Canowindra Tigers, Bathurst Panthers, Grenfell Goannas, and Blayney Bears.
The rst matches of the day saw Forbes Magpies secure a 10-0 victory over Cargo Blue Heelers on eld one, while Manildra Rhinos dominated Trundle Boomers 16-0 on eld two.
Other key results throughout the day included Eugowra Golden Eagles drawing with Orange Warriors 8-8, Trundle Boomers falling to Peak Hill Roosters 0-4.
Molong Bulls going down to Bathurst St Pats 12-18, Cowra Magpies defeating Oberon Tigers 21-0.
Canowindra Tigers overcoming Blayney Bears 22-0, and Grenfell Goannas losing to Bathurst Panthers 0-10.
As the tournament continued, Cargo Blue Heelers were defeated by Manildra Rhinos 4-10, Trundle Boomers lost to Forbes Magpies 4-22.
Orange Warriors claimed a 4-0 victory over Blayney Bears, Peak Hill Roosters drew with Eugowra Golden Eagles 4-4.
Molong Bulls and Cowra Magpies ended their match with a 6-6 draw, Bathurst St Pats dominated Oberon Tigers 30-0.
Cargo Blue Heelers took down Trundle Boomers 100, and Manildra Rhinos and Forbes Magpies played out a 6-6 draw.
In the later matches, Peak Hill Roosters lost to Orange Warriors 0-20, Eugowra Golden Eagles narrowly defeated Grenfell Goannas 4-0.
Bathurst St Pats secured a 10-0 win over Cowra Magpies, Oberon Tigers fell to Molong Bulls 0-10.
Bathurst Panthers were defeated by Canowindra Tigers 0-6, and Blayney Bears went down to Grenfell Goannas 0-16.
The semi- nals saw Forbes Magpies take on Orange Warriors, with Forbes dominating 26-0, while Bathurst St Pats faced Canowindra Tigers, securing a 14-0 victory.
In a the nal game, the Forbes Magpies faced o against Bathurst St Pats, emerging as Western Challenge XIV champions with a hard-fought 8-4 victory.
Bill Attard led the way in the Veterans Golf last Thursday
COWRA veterans players played their 9 hole Stableford event on Thursday 6.3.25 with 40 players competing.
The pro compalso played their 18 hole Stableford event with 45 players completing including 2 visitors from Young and Peak Hill GC .
Bill Attard lead the way in the vets comp with 22 pts, while Alfonso Melisi lead the way in the pro comp with 38 pts matched by Bob Vidulich With 38 pts also.
Saturdays event was a 4 stick challenge
sponsored by Craig Pierce Steve Williams Peter Smith And Chris Brown. Mitch Hatch
Holly Pull playing for the Canowindra Tigers.
PHOTO: Any Harrison
Georgia Kennedy playing for the Canowindra Tigers.
PHOTO: Any Harrison
Danielle Spence playing for the Cowra Magpies.
Abby Slattery playing for the Cowra Magpies.
CAPTAIN, KELLY PRICE PLAYING FOR THE CANOWINDRA TIGERS.
PHOTO: AMY HARRISON
Miss Nikki back to teach the girls
By COWRA DANCE FACTORY
Cowra Dance Factory welcomed back ex-student Nicola Carter into the studio this week.
Nicola was a student of CDF throughout her high school years. A er graduating high school Nicola went on to study dance at the prestigious Ev and Bow Dance Studio in Sydney.
Nicola has also spent time working as a professional dancer and has travelled extensively throughout Europe furthering her dance experience.
Miss Nikki, as she is known by the students, returned to Cowra to choreograph two new routines for the senior students.
The students worked alongside Nikki for 6 hours over the weekend to create a jazz and contemporary dance item for the
upcoming eisteddfod season.
The jazz routine is a fast, upbeat dance where the students can show o their skills such as turns, leaps and isolations.
The contemporary dance routine is to a string quartet track of music. The students explore di erent ways their bodies can move and travel.
The students will perform rstly at Cowra Eisteddfod in May.
The students love competing at their local eisteddfod so their families and friends can see what they have been working on.
Cowra Eisteddfod also brings talents from all around the region and as far as Canberra.
This is a great opportunity for the students to enjoy the performances from other dance studios without having to travel out of town.
FootyNRL TIPPING
TIPSTER Isaac Watt
Sydney Road, Cowra, NSW, 2794
TIPSTER Lenerrd Mooddey
Preseason trial matches coming quick for the Canowindra Pythons Roth talks trials
By CARA KEMP
THE Canowindra Pythons will participate in the CWRU 2025 preseason trial matches, which will provide a valuable opportunity to assess tness levels, re ne skills, and build team cohesion ahead of the new season. Their rst match is set for
March 22 at 3pm at Grenfell Rugby Club, when they will face the Molong Magpies.
Later that same day, at 4pm, they will go head-tohead with the Grenfell Panthers at the same venue.
Preseason trial matches play a critical role in preparing teams for the intensity of the regular season.
Pythons coach Tom Roth, highlights their importance, not just for tness and game readiness but also for fostering excitement and attracting new players to the squad.
“These games are important to see where our tness levels are and to get the ball in our hands again,” Roth said.
they’re a great way to have fun, get people keen, and bring more players into the team,” he said.
“We’ve got some really handy football players looking to join, but we need to show that we have a strong, committed side,” he said.
“The more we train, the better we get, and that’s how we’ll attract more players.”
“More than anything,
He noted that several players have shown signi cant growth during preseason training, and while the squad is shaping up well, the team is always eager to welcome new players.
Roth encourages anyone considering joining the team to attend training sessions and give it a go.
“Even if you’re on the fence about playing, just come to training and see if you like it,” he said.
With momentum building and the season fast approaching, the Canowindra Pythons are looking forward to testing themselves in these preseason matches.
The Canowindra Pythons are ready to take on their preseason matches.
