CowraGuardianThursdayAugust142025

Cowra reflects on 81 years since breakout

By DAN RYAN

Cowra paused on Tuesday August 5th to mark the 81st anniversary of the Cowra Breakout, honouring those who lost their lives in one of the most extraordinary events in Australian wartime history, as well as reflecting on the legacy of reconciliation it continues to inspire.

Taking place in the early hours of the morning 81 years agothe particular acts of sudden, unexpected violence, humanity and heroism in the breakout punctuated the otherwise tranquil farmland that residents would recognise today.

At the time, the camp housed thousands of POWs, including Italian, Korean, and Japanese prisoners. For many Japanese soldiers, capture was considered deeply dishonourable, and the determination to escape - or die trying was strong.

By the end, 231 Japanese prisoners were dead, many by gunfire or suicide, along with four Australian soldiers. Another Australian later died as a result of wounds. Around 359 prisoners broke free, though all were recaptured within nine days. It remains the largest escape attempt from a POW camp in modern military history.

In the decades since, the tragedy has transformed into a story of friendship between former adversaries, symbolised by the Japanese War Cemetery - the only one of its kind in Australia - and the Cowra Japanese Garden.

unique role in reconciliation.

“It is an honour to join you all once more here on a crisp Cowra day as we commemorate the 81st anniversary of the Cowra Breakout. That tragedy was followed by an act of kindness, which in time led to further acts of kindness and generosity, leading to eventual reconciliation,” he said.

emerging that demand our attention,” he said.

He also praised the enduring strength of the Japan–Australia relationship, highlighting a recent Lowy Institute poll that again placed Japan among the nations most trusted by Australians.

Closing his address, Ambassador Suzuki said that Cowra stood in as a place of ‘grace and goodness’ in an unstable world.

Speaking at Tuesday’s commemoration, Japan’s Ambassador to Australia, Suzuki Kazuhiro, reflected on Cowra’s

“Across the world, the norms and institutions that underpinned peace and prosperity in the aftermath of WWII have been shaken, with new challenges

“For the fifth year in a row, Australians have placed Japan at the top of those nations most trusted to act responsibly in the world. We recognise that in each other we have a true friend, a real mate,” he said.

“81 years ago Cowra was the scene of tragedy. That tragedy was followed by an act of kindness, which in time led to further acts of kindness and generosity, leading to eventual reconciliation,” he said.

reminds me that there are still places of grace and goodness left in this world, and I am fortunate enough to find myself in one of them.”

“Coming to Cowra, meeting with locals and enjoying country hospitality in the tranquil setting of this refined tea room within the elegant Japanese Garden,

“At a time when peace has been too often overlooked and sorrow deepens amid the growing reliance on force around the world, the story of Cowra stands as a silver lining. Together with the people of Japan, I am forever grateful for this legacy and feel committed to ensuring that its message is passed on to future generations.”

to: Cowra Council

WHAT’S ON in Cowra, Canowindra and Surrounds

COWRA PARK RUN

Cowra POW Camp, Saturday, 14 June –Saturday, 20 December, weekly

A free, fun, and friendly weekly fivekilometre community event on beautiful Wiradjuri Country. Walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate – it’s up to you.

The course is 5000m long. This has been accurately measured by us with a professional measuring wheel. The course is at the Cowra Breakout Cycleway and Walking path, Corner of Evans Street and Sakura Avenue, Cowra. The course is run entirely on concrete paths. Some sections of the course may accumulate mud, leaves and puddles after rain. Depending on availability, marshals will be at key sections of the course, or signs will be in place.

The parkrun is free to enter, but please register before you come along [cowra@ parkrun.com].

Only ever register with parkrun once, and don’t forget to bring a scannable copy of your barcode. If you forget it, you won’t be given a time.

Every week, grab a post-parkrun coffee in the Rose Garden Coffee House- next to the Cowra Visitor Information Centre.

COMMUNITY MARKETS

Support local at the Cowra Community Markets. Browse through a wide variety of fresh produce, diverse stallholders and hear from local buskers.

Entry via gold coin donation – 8am– At Sid Kallas Oval

More info on all events and tickets via the link below: https://visitcowra.com.au/cowra-winterwanderlust

For all enquiries, please contact us via phone 02 6342 4333 or email events@ cowratourism.com.au

COWRA’S WAR 1939-1945

19 July to 24 August 2025

Cowra Regional Art Gallery

The Cowra Breakout Association presents Cowra’s War 1939-1945 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in pictures and objects.

The exhibition explores Cowra’s vital and multifaceted role in Australia’s World War II effort, inviting you to reflect on Cowra’s wartime experience - a story marked by service, resilience, and a continuing commitment to peace.

LEARN TO PLAY BOWLS

Sundays 9:15am, Cowra Bowling Club

little adventurers, this fun and educational session is sure to spark creativity and wonder.

COWRA TOURIST RAILWAY

Saturday, 26 July – Sunday, 30 November

interested can call Carmel (0409939241), Jenny (0400395196) Elaine (0409781271).

LGBTQIA+ NIGHT OUT

CJ’s @ Club Cowra, Last Wednesday of each month, 6-9pm.

of pastoral, agricultural, horticultural, viticulture, industrial and cultural pursuits of Woodstock and the surrounding district. The Show provides prizes including cash and trophies.

WELCOME TO COWRA

$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 refine your skills, the Cowra Eagles Bowlers will guide you through the game. To register your interest, simply contact: Sonia Morgan - 0425 228 505 Mim Shroder - 0417 062 679 Bob Morgan - 0481 244 081

LITTLE FISHES AT THE MUSEUM

Ages of Fishes Museum

Free program and entry

Join friendly staff at the Age of Fishes Museum Canowindra on the first Friday of every month for some fun, hands on science lessons. Each month, the little fishes’ study a new topic. Perfect for curious minds and

Running the last Saturday and Sunday of each month, view the gorgeous Cowra countryside from the beautifully restored Planet 52 and two R cars on board a trip from the heritage listed Cowra Railway Station to the Lachlan Bridge and back. Pop into one of the many rooms at the Cowra Railway Station also open for inspection along with Vintage Cars from the Cowra Antique Vehicle Club.

Tickets available on the day.

LEARN TO PLAY CROQUET

Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 1pm

Corner Darling and Brougham Streets, $5 per game.

It’s a fun way to play sport in a relaxed and social way. Join us for a meet and greet, Dress: casual, flat soled shoes, hat and drink bottle.

Open to all over 10 years old. Those

JOURNALISTS

Dan Ryan (02) 6342 1044 dryan@midwestmedia.com.au

CLASSIFIEDS (02) 6342 1044 classifieds@midwestmedia.com.au

ADVERTISING

www.cowraguardian.com.au

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Courtney Gambrill 0448 248 080 cgambrill@midwestmedia.com.au

Cowra’s LGBTQ+ community is embracing 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.

WOODSTOCK MEMORIAL SHOW

Sunday, September 7

The Woodstock Memorial Show is held annually on the first Sunday in September, the first day of spring, Fathers Day. The Show was instigated in 1946 initially as a gymkhana with the sole purpose of raising funds to support the ongoing maintenance of the Woodstock Soldiers Memorial Hall. To this day this remains just one of the objectives of the annual event.

The show encourages the development

Club Cowra, Sunday, 31 August

Have you moved to the Cowra Shire in the last few years?

Please join us for an informal catch-up over afternoon tea at our Welcome to Cowra event.

We’ll have lots of information available about our town and villages; locals on hand to answer your questions; and community and sporting group representatives sharing their details.

Everyone gets a free giveaway bag and gift and there will be face painting for the kids. You’ll also be in with a chance to win one of our lucky door prizes - family tickets to either the Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival or the Cowra Spring Show.

This is event is free, but bookings are essential. Reserve your place today at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/welcometo-cowra-tickets-1432501714189

Death sentenced

Scott Death, has been sentenced to a maximum term of imprisonment of 3 years, 2 months for the fatal bus crash which injured five and killed 84 year old Raymond Padgett.

The 34-year-old appeared at Orange District Court Thursday July 31st, with members from the defendant’s and victim’s families attending.

The court heard Death had ‘tunnel vision’ when deciding to enter his car, reverse from his driveway after drinking, and crashing into a courtesy minibus while attempting to visit his grandfather’s grave, on the night of December 16, 2023.

The court heard that he had decided to drive after a fight with his partner - heading toward the intersection at the end of his street colliding into the courtesy bus on Fitzroy Avenue - throwing 84 year old Raymond Padgett from the vehicle, killing him and injuring five others.

Magistrate Musgrave referred to police facts, where Death had told officers, “I had tunnel vision. I don’t know what speed I was doing, I didn’t even see the headlights of the other car. I just put my foot down, I didn’t slow down - I didn’t take my foot off the accelerator,” quoted the Magistrate.

Death had been intoxicated, having consumed ‘five alcoholic drinks at a social function’ and had at the time his blood alcohol was measured was at

0.101, more than double the legal limit.

The risk of a traffic incident on Fitzroy Avenue at that time was also considered, with the magistrate saying “I accept that the driver was not on a road that was in frequent use, or in a built up area - sadly this risk eventuated and affected the people on the bus.”

The court heard that Death had admitted to having knowingly made false or misleading statements, drive in manner dangerous occasioning death, as well as mid-range drink driving. Magistrate Musgrave said she accepted Death was remorseful.

Death had initially led po-

lice to believe his car had been stolen - with police initiating a break and enter investigation - later admitting to police that he was the driver of the vehicle and that he was afraid of going to prison, and did not know how to explain the event to his children.

“The offender is genuinely, and deeply remorseful - I’m forced to admit that this is not inconsistent with the false statements he made. He provided an explanation for his lies and his delay in disclosing his role. “

Magistrate Musgrave accepted that Mr Death had been living with bipolar disorder, but was not medicated or

following a treatment plan.

The Magistrate quoted Mr Padgett’s family and granddaughter as having lost their “pop” and “a great mate.”

Death was handed a box of tissues as the magistrate read out the sentence and supporting statements.

In addition to the maximum jail term of three years and two months imprisonment, Death was disqualified from driving for nine months and will be forced to have an interlock installed on his vehicle.

Death will be able to apply for parole in September of 2026. He remarked after sentencing to onlookers, “see you in a year.”

Nine charged with 20 offences under Operation SoteriaCentral West

Police have charged nine people with 20 offences under Operation Soteria during a three-day Surge operation in the Central West.

Operation Soteria is a strategic initiative focusing on aggravated break, enter and steal offences, stealing motor vehicles, and ‘post and boast’ offences where social media is used to gain notoriety.

The three-day surge operation ran between Thursday 31 July 2025 and Saturday 2 August 2025, with a focus on Orange, Forbes, Parkes and Bathurst. During the operation, officers conducted 60 bail compliance and apprehended domestic violence order checks, 19 person searches and 11 vehicle searches.

Additionally, Traffic and Highway Patrol officers conducted 434 stationary and mobile random breath tests, and issued 90 traffic infringement notices, as well as eight positive random drug tests.

Two incidents of note:

About 9.15pm on Saturday 3 August 2025, officers attached to Chifley Police District were patrolling the Bathurst area when they attempted to stop a sedan on Boyd Street. When the driver allegedly failed to stop a pursuit was initiated. During the pursuit police deployed road spikes successfully before the car hit a bush on Green Street. The driver and passenger both allegedly attempted to run from the scene; however, police arrested them nearby.

Both the driver – a 40-year-old man – and passenger – a 28-year-old woman – were taken to Bathurst Police Station. The man was charged with drive recklessly/ furiously or speed/manner dangerous, police pursuit - not stop - drive recklessly, drive motor vehicle during disqualification period, class A motor vehicle exceed speed over 45 km/h, and possess prohibited drug.

Police executed an outstanding warrant on the woman for a kidnapping-related offence.

The pair were refused bail and appeared at Parramatta Local Court yesterday (Sunday 3 August 2025), where they were formerly refused bail to appear at Bathurst Local Court on Wednesday 6 August 2025.

Nominations open for 2026 Women of the Year

Cowra residents are being encouraged to nominate outstanding women and girls in their community for the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards.

The annual awards shine a spotlight on women whose actions inspire those around them, as trailblazers, quiet achievers, courageous reformers, or role models in their communities.

Nominations are now open across six categories: the Premier’s Woman of Excellence Award, Aboriginal Woman of the Year, Community Hero, Regional Woman of the Year, Young Woman of the Year for ages 16 to 30, and Ones to Watch, for 7-15 year olds.

Nominations are open now, and will close just before midnight on Tuesday, September 9.

Established in 2012, the annual awards have celebrated the women and girls whose determination, bravery, skill and passion has inspired their communities and others to achieve great things.

Last year’s NSW Regional Woman of the Year, Kirsty Evans, was acknowledged for her significant impact on flood survivors across the Central West. In the wake of severe flooding in Molong in 2022, the legal professional provided more than 250 hours of free legal support to local business owners battling denied insurance claims, services worth over $100,000.

Her advocacy led to nearly $1 million being returned to the community after insurers reversed their decisions and accepted partial liability. In 2024, Evans presented evidence at a Parliamentary Inquiry into the insurers’ responses to the flooding disaster in the Central West.

Nominations can be made online at www. nswwomenoftheyear. awardsplatform.com, with any questions directed to The Cabinet Office womenoftheyear@tco.nsw. gov.au

Cowra Hospital Memorial Rose Garden finds new home

The Cowra Hospital Memorial Rose Garden, first opened on Saturday, 11 October 2008, has been lovingly relocated to the Cowra Cemetery, ensuring its legacy continues for future generations.

The garden was originally established to mark the 50th anniversary of the opening of Cowra Hospital in 1958.

It also paid tribute to those who contributed to the hospital’s history, including the late Mrs. Mary Purcell, daughter of the late Mayor Mark Whitby - a strong advocate for a new hospital in the 1950s.

The project was led by former Nursing Unit Manager of Cowra Maternity, Joan Hurst, who later worked in Nursing Administration.

She was joined by a dedicated team including Wendy Hyde, Jeannie McLaren, Carole Doyle, Aileen Ferguson, Beverly Lazarou, and Kathy Day.

Funding came from committee members, nursing and medical

staff, community donations, and generous sponsorships from Cowra families who wished to honour loved ones with a rose or a name on the large memorial plaque.

The plaque is set into a stone sculpture by Ken Hutchinson.

A trellis was donated by the late Tom Chapman and Dawn McKay, and the garden was carefully maintained over the years by Cowra Hospital gar-

dener Dave O’Donnell, along with the committee and helpers.

In 2021, the committee - represented by Wendy Hyde and Carole Doyle - was informed that the memorial rose garden would need to be moved to make way for the construction of the new Cowra Hospital.

After meetings with the new hospital’s infrastructure team, led by Anabel Dunlop, and Cowra Coun-

cil’s infrastructure leaders Phillipa Childs and Peter Taylor, it was agreed that the garden would be relocated to the Cowra Cemetery.

The move took place in July 2022, involving the careful removal of 60 roses, headstones, plaques, and sculptured stones.

The work was carried out with great care and dignity by Wendy Hyde, Carole Doyle, Helen Isaksen, Ken Hutchinson, Cowra Cement Works, Les “Cobar” Houghton, Dave from Cowra Turf, Peter Taylor, and the dedicated Cowra Council workers.

Today, the site at the cemetery is home to around 70 roses.

Adding to the garden’s beauty is a striking “Mother and Baby” sculpture, commissioned 20 years ago by then NUM of Cowra Maternity, Joan Hurst, and crafted by Ken Hutchinson.

After being displayed in Ms. Hurst’s own garden for many years, she has generously donated it to the Memorial Rose Garden, where it now takes pride of place overlooking the roses.

Expo to highlight floodresilient homes options

Flood-affected home owners are encouraged to attend a Resilient Homes Expo planned for September.

The NSW Reconstruction Authority is hosting the expo in Eugowra to bring together Resilient Homes Program homeowners and community members with building services.

The expo will provide information about the Resilient Homes Program’s grant process, development approval processes, and how successful resilient building and relocation projects can be delivered.

Homeowners and business represent-

atives can visit information stands and speak with representatives from councils, the Reconstruction Authority, SafeWork NSW, Building Commission NSW, and various industry associations and businesses interested in resilient building services.

There will be opportunities to book 15-minute one-on-one appointments with a member of the Resilient Homes Program team or a council officer. The expo is on at Eugowra Showground from 4pm to 7pm on Wednesday, 3 September.

Flood water just before the flooding of a house at Windsor, Western Sydney, NSW, Australia. July 5, 2022 Photo: Wes Warren/Unsplash.

The Rose Garden will provide a place for quiet reflection for all.

With CAROLE DOYLE

Joan Hurst with the sculpture, ‘Mother and Child’ by Ken Hutchinson.

PHOTOS: Tess Roberts

ARTIST KEN HUTCHINSON AND JOAN HURST.

COWRA COUNCIL NOTICEBOARD

11th August 2025

BUSINESS ASSISTANCE PUBLIC NOTIFICATION

Notice is given that at the ordinary meeting of council on Monday 28 July 2025, the following resolution was passed:

1. That Council give public notification of its intention to provide financial assistance to Cowra Early Childhood Services by way of a $36,000 partial refund of development application fees for the construction of a preschool at 14 Short Street, Cowra.

2. That funds be transferred from the Business Assistance Reserve to cover this payment.

Submissions on this proposal are sought from the community and will be accepted up until 4pm on Monday 1 September 2025

Submissions should be sent to council@cowra.nsw.gov.au

COWRA CIVIC CENTRE

14TH AUGUST

TWO SHOWS 10:00M OR 1:00PM

BOOK NOW

PUBLIC EXHIBITION

Go to: www.cowracouncil.com.au

Click the Public Exhibition button on the home pageEvery idea, opinion, and perspective counts – so take a few minutes to have your say and be part of the conversation that shapes Cowra.

Be part of something big!

The Bell Beats Music & Arts Festival is lighting up Cowra this October — and we want YOU in the spotlight.

We’re seeking bold, brilliant artists to bring the Bell Beats Arts Quarter to life with:

Video artworks

Ephemeral installations

Artmaking workshops

Apply by Monday 18 August 2025

For artists based in Central West NSW

To apply, email: Cassandra.HardLawrie@cowra.nsw.gov.au

Alcohol Free Zone

Council gives notice, in accordance with Part 4 of Chapter 16 of the Local Government Act 1993, of its intention to establish, for a period of 4 years, an Alcohol-Free Zone in the following locations:

The Mid Western Highway from Shelley Street extending east over the Lachlan River bridge along Kendal Street/Mid Western Highway to Somerset Street;

All streets running off Kendal Street between those designated areas above north to Liverpool Street and south to Vaux Street;

The entire length of Liverpool Street;

The entire length of Vaux Street;

The entire length of Bartlett Street;

The entire length of Bartlett Avenue;

The entire length of Railway Street;

The entire length of Railway Lane; The entire length of Busby Lane; The entire length of Doust Lane; The entire length of Rowston Lane; Redfern Street from the intersection of Smith Street south into Bridge Street to the intersection of Lachlan Street; Smith Street from the intersection of Liverpool Street south to the intersection of Redfern Street; Unnamed street from intersection of Bridge Street south under the bridge overpass to the intersection with Lachlan Street; Unnamed street from intersection of Bridge Street west over the Low Level Bridge to the intersection of Lachlan Valley Way;

The entire length of Len Whiteley Drive; and public places within the proposed Alcohol Free Zone that are a car park or part of a car park.

The Alcohol-Free Zone will exclude those areas with separate approval from Council and Liquor and Gaming NSW to conduct footpath dining including the consumption of alcohol.

Submissions on this proposal are sought from the community and will be accepted up until 4pm on Monday 8 September 2025. Submissions should be addressed to:

The General Managers Office council@cowra.nsw.gov.au

Private Bag 342

116 Kendal Street Cowra 2794

Low level bridge closure extended

Cowra Council has announced the extension of repairs on the low level bridge at the Lachlan RiverBila Galari.

In a statement shared to social media, Cowra Council warned the signifiant project would last until at least August 15.

“The concrete approach slabs have now been installed, but due to an unforeseen delay in material delivery, the project timeline has been pushed back slightly,” a spokesperson for council shared online.

“This is a significant project that will deliver

long-term benefits for the community.

We truly appreciate your patience and understanding as we work towards completing these important upgrades.”

This follows the installation of traffic monitoring cameras on surrounding streets, council the number of vehicles passing to better understand the impact of the bridge closure.

Mayor Paul Smith told the Cowra Guardian he hoped the numbers of vehicles passing captured on the cameras would help secure the business case for a second ‘mid level’ bridge.

with calls for a new bridge growing.

concrete at the

Workers have been toughing it out in chilly conditions to get the bridge secured for a re-opening later this month.

14 billion drink containers recycled through Return and Earn

New South Wales’ love affair with Return and Earn recycling has reached a new high, with the 14th billion container officially returned, with Bilyara residents taking no small part in collections and returns.

In just seven years since launching in December 2017 as a litter reduction initiative, Return and Earn has grown to deliver strong environmental, social, and economic benefits for communities across NSW.

The positive environmental impact of returning 14 billion bottles and cans for recycling instead of making new containers with virgin materials includes:

Water savings equivalent to 32,840 Olympic swimming pools

Energy savings equivalent to powering 191,100 homes for an entire year

Carbon emission savings equivalent to taking 1,017,400 cars off the road annually.

“This impressive milestone means over $1.4 billion in container refunds has gone back into people’s pockets, helping with the cost of living, saving for a special goal or supporting some amazing organisations,” said James Dorney, CEO of network operator TOMRA Cleanaway.

Danielle Smalley, CEO of scheme coordinator, Exchange for Change, said over $82 million has been raised for charities and community groups through donations and return point hosting fees, supporting their important work from providing food and shelter to environmental conservation.

“Return and Earn is one of the best product stewardship schemes in the country and shows what incredible

environmental, economic and social outcomes can be achieved when government, industry and the community work together,” she said.

The 14 billion milestone coincides with Return and Earn releasing the latest Local Government Volume Report, which shows the enthusiastic community participation in container return-

ing by council area in the last six months.

Return and Earn is delivered in partnership between the NSW Government, scheme coordinator Exchange for Change and network operator TOMRA Cleanaway.

Bilyara residents have joined the program, running a kitty. In a recent post, a

Bilyara employee said “Residents have been keeping their cans and bottles, which are kindly collected by our Nifty Nev, to take part in the Return and Earn at our local Woolworths. Residents have a kitty going, that as a group they can decide what they would like to spend it on. Our first haul....... $25.60!”

FAST FACTS

An additional 3.8 billion drink containers have been returned via yellow bin kerbside collections.

Two out of every three eligible drink containers supplied into NSW are recycled through the scheme.

Return and Earn has achieved a 73 per cent reduction in drink container litter since the scheme began.

Aluminium containers

(513,877,536) and PET containers (358,569,925) were the most common drink containers recycled through the return point network in the last six months.

Glass bottles are recycled into new bottles and jars in as little as 30 days. Plastic soft drink and water bottles are back on shelves in six to eight weeks. Plastic bottle lids are recycled into items including flowerpots and bin lids

There are more than 660 return points across NSW and 83 per cent of adults have participated in Return and Earn, the majority doing so monthly.

Recyclers can choose to donate their return to one of over 400 donation partners on the Return and Earn app. For more information visit returnandearn.org.au.

New

entrance to the low level bridge. Image Cowra Council.

IMAGE: Cowra Council

The Low Level bridge has been closed for emergency repairs,

PHOTO: Dan Ryan

What’s On at Club Cowra

KILLER QUEEN EXPERIENCE

16 August

Formed in 2003, The Killer Queen Experience has risen from a Local Brisbane based Queen Cover Band to an International Touring Show and is Australia’s most sought-after Tribute Act today.

Meeting Queen in 2020 is the highlight of their career!

Lead Singer John Blunts resemblance to Freddie Mercury is uncanny, appearing Live to 7 million viewers on the FRENCH TV SHOW - “Qui Sera Le Meilleur Sosie?” - “WHO WILL BE THE BEST IMPERSONATOR”

Killer Queen have taken their show to such places as the UK, Norway, Singapore, India and shared the bill with the likes of Jeff Beck, Foreigner, Journey, Twisted Sister, Thin Lizzy and Kelly Rowland. In May 2019 KQ perform in Russia for the first time.

The 2 - hour live show consists of all Queens Greatest Hits including – Bohemian Rhapsody, We Will Rock You, We Are the Champions, Somebody to Love, Radio Ga Ga, Another One Bites the Dust and select album tracks for the hardcore fans.

LAST STAND - CHISEL BARNES SHOW & THE OZ ROCK ANTHEMS SHOW

22 August

Tickets $25 presale Move over Advance Australia

Fair, 2 songs that are always considered as Australian National Anthems are Khe Sanh and Working Class Man.

This is Chisel / Barnes.

Cold Chisel songs have made their mark in Australian history as some of the best tunes to ever come out of Australian Pub Rock.

Anthems such as Flame Trees, Bow River, Choir Girl, Cheap Wine and of course Khe Sanh.

The list of Chisel classics goes on and on.

Jimmy Barnes also made his own solo mark on Australian Rock with some massive songs including Driving Wheels, Lay Down Your Guns, Die To Be With You Tonight, Last Frontier, and who does not know the words to Working Class Man? Combine the songs of both and you have a night like no other.

The Best of the Best that Australia has to offer, this is the Last Stand - Chisel Barnes Show.

KENNY ROGERS

Singer Graham Toole Hits Jackpot as Kenny Rogers.

Graham Toole, a renowned tribute artist, had been called up to perform as Kenny Rogers with the Las Vegas Legends in concert at Melbourne’s Crown Casino.

The US-based Legends are celebrated in musical tribute circles, boasting the longestrunning show in the world with a full cast of singers, dancers, and a live band.

With ‘American Kenny’ unexpectedly out injured, Graham had just nine days to

learn four songs and a duet before taking to the stage for twentytwo shows alongside tributes to Rod Stewart, Tina Turner, Stevie Wonder, Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, Donna Summer, and Cyndi Lauper. They are world-class tribute artists Graham enthused.

Graham has made a career out of singing the songs of the greats, performing tributes to Glen Campbell, John Denver, and Kenny Rogers over the past 38 years.

Growing up in a musical household, Graham’s passion for music was evident from an early age when he joined an old-time dance band, and at 16, he won a talent competition to be the curtain-raiser for a young John Williamson travelling out west TV show

In 2004, Graham was recognized with the Frank Ifield International Spur Award for his potential global country music appeal, individual style, and professionalism.

He and his wife Leonie and children have performed on the streets of Tamworth, sharing their love for music with the community.

A special evening with Graham Toole presents an evening devoted to the music and songs of Kenny Rogers, Glen Campbell, John Denver and Friends.

Performing all the hits including: Lady, The Gambler, Rhinestone Cowboy, Lucille, Country Roads & more. Performed with a live band. Graham’s performances

transcend generations, with grandparents eager to share the music they grew up with.

“They are just such well-crafted songs,” It’s been a brilliant opportunity to play wonderful songs that everyone knows... that’s the fun part: we encourage people to join in.”

As for Favorites, he said that it was too hard to choose, with the melody in one, or a phrase in another clicking with him in particular situations.

“And that’s what it’s like for audiences too... one line in a song can just take them back to that special time in their lives.

THE RADIATORS

Super Aussie Icons the RADIATORS are deservedly having a major resurgence with a massive popular come back, also attracting the younger generations picking musical tastes up from there parents - bringing there latest album RADIOLOGY to Number One spots on current Australian Music charts... the last few months.

Right now the band have not long started there 2025 Aussie Tour, absolutely smashing live audiences and literally selling out venues.

What a refreshing tour.. bringing back real live Australian authentic rock music.

Tickets at the Club or 123tix

TANIA KERNAGHAN & JASON OWEN

Following the overwhelming success of their chart-topping

duets “Back Home Again” and “Let Your Love Flow’’ Tania Kernaghan and Jason Owen are on tour together in 2024 / 2025, performing in Cowra last year, Tania and Jason pledged they would be back and true to their word they are once again heading our way!

With their unique talent and sensational energy, Tania and Jason captivate their audience wherever they perform!

Their superbly crafted concert is presented in an up close and personal setting, whilst taking their audience on a remarkable journey down memory lane.

Performing an extensive repertoire including some of their biggest hits, along with a selection of the greatest songs of all time, thisconcert has something for everyone to totally enjoy!

THE LUKE COMBS EXPERIENCE

From Beautiful Crazy to Beer Never Broke My Heart, experience all the big tracks performed live with the energy and passion that’s packing out venues across Australia.

The Ultimate Luke Combs Tribute Show – Live at Club Cowra

Saturday, 25 October, doors 7pm - show 8pm - 18+ Show https://events.humanitix.com/ the-ultimate-luke-combs-tributeshow-club-cowra

Growers winning war on weeds, with work to do

With GRDC

A new report reveals that Australian grain and cotton growers are achieving productivity gains by investing in smarter, long-term weed management strategies, proving weeds can be beaten.

A decade on from the last national estimate, new CSIRO research funded by the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) and Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC) has found that weeds cost the grain and cotton industries an estimated $4.43 billion per year.

Taking into account inflation and adjusted values, this is a 7% increase in costs for grain growers, however despite this increase in costs, growers are reaping the rewards of their investment.

Through proactive management and innovation, the impact of weeds on crop yield has fallen, from 2.8 million tonnes in 2016 to 1.2 million tonnes in 2025 translating into higher production and income.

“Weed control remains one of the biggest annual costs for growers, but the investment is paying off,” said Rick Llewellyn, CSIRO Research Scientist who coauthored the report led by Jackie Ouzman.

“By staying ahead of the weed seed bank, resistance and adopting smarter, more targeted practices, growers are protecting longterm profitability and enabling flexibility in their system.”

Australian growers lead the way with integrated weed management, combining pre-emergent herbicides, harvest weed seed control, crop rotation and new precision technologies such as camera-guided spraying.

One of the biggest gains comes from improved summer fallow weed control, which helps conserve valuable soil moisture and supports better crop establishment in drier seasons, an essential part of farming in a changing climate.

“Effective weed control is a critical part of climate adaptation,” said Dr Llewellyn.

“With increasingly variable rainfall and larger cropping programs, growers need to sow crops when conditions are right without

delays for weed control.”

The 2025 study also includes cotton production for the first time, offering a fuller picture of weed impacts across Australia’s two largest cropping sectors.

Weeds cost producers on average $4.3 billion ($203 per ha) in grain crops and $145 million ($445 per hectare) in cotton crops – with cotton growers shown to invest heavily in keeping weed densities exceptionally low.

“Australian growers are showing global leadership in weed management, but the cost increases are real. We need to keep supporting research and find ways to stay ahead of evolving weed challenges while also reducing these costs,” said Dr Llewellyn.

The study reaffirms continued investment in weed management research, not just for reducing

CYNICISM has been described by some as self-imposed blindness, thwarted romanticism or disappointed idealism. The poet Oscar Wilde said, “A cynic is a man who knows the price of everything, and the value of nothing”. Charlie Chaplin said, “Our knowledge has made us cynical; our cleverness, hard and unkind”.

Knowledge can have such an effect. Every age has thought itself cleverer than the previous, and here we are, suddenly, in an age that is convinced it knows everything, and that what we don’t know is only a click away.

However, while cynicism has nothing to recommend it, neither has gullibility. Gullibility has no filters in place to

losses, but for unlocking gains in productivity, climate resilience and sustainable land use.

“The only reason we’re not seeing widespread yield losses from weeds today is because of years of sustained research and grower innovation,” Dr Llewellyn said.

“This is a quiet success story, but it’s a battle where you can’t pause - the weed challenge keeps evolving and demanding new solutions.”

New weed threats continue to emerge at a local level but nationally the most costly weeds remain familiar: ryegrass, brome grass, sow thistle, wild radish and wild oats, while the costliest fallow weeds in grain production at a national level are melons, heliotrope and fleabane.

Management of weeds remains a high research priority with

GRDC re-investing in five-year, nationally coordinated, $47 million Weed Management Initiative. Under the initiative, GRDC will invest $25 million to create regional nodes with strategic partnerships with $22 million in co-contributions from the University of Western Australia, the University of Adelaide, Charles Sturt University and the University of Queensland.

Weed management in Australia is grounded in decades of research, development and extension and reflects GRDC’s commitment to grower accountability, innovation and long-term return on investment.

The WMI will support more than 20 weed research scientists, working under experienced node leads, as well as 12 new PhD student scholarships to build critical capacity in this field.

FOCUS ON LIVING “Too Fine a Mesh”

protect us from predators or falsehoods, and filters need to be there. Cynicism, on the other hand, has filters of too fine a mesh – so fine, in fact, that we can be kept ignorant of many things worth examining.

We tend to think of cynicism as a modern condition, but Athens was bristling with cynicism by the time the apostle Paul arrived there. Theirs was not only their particular philosophical Cynicism, but also the disparaging kind that leads to rejection without full examination and consideration. Paul’s fellow-worker, Luke, tells that among the many gods of Athens, was an altar “to an unknown god”. It might appear that they were open to consider something new, and some

NSW launches ultimate biosecurity guide to weed control

NSW Chief Invasive Species Officer, Scott Charlton, launched the latest NSW Government weed management guide at the 23rd NSW Weeds Conference in Port Macquarie, on August 5.

Welcomed by more than 280 biosecurity specialists at the event, the popular New South Wales Weed Control Handbook: A guide to weed control in non-crop, aquatic and bushland situations has been in high demand across the state since the first edition was published in 2001.

“Whether you’re managing weeds in bushland, pastures, yards or aquatic situations, this Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) handbook is the ultimate guide to weed control for NSW,” Mr Charlton said.

“The guide supports the shared biosecurity responsibility we all have to protect NSW from invasive plant species by providing land managers with the most up-to-date weed control information.

“You can check on the latest integrated weed management tactics, learn your legal responsibilities, and find the latest updates on herbicide use and how to manage chemical resistance.”

Local council and weed management biosecurity officers, land managers, farmers, gardeners and environmentalists use the handy guide in the field, supported by DPIRD training and digital resources, to manage weeds across the state.

The 8th edition of the DPIRD New South Wales Weed Control Handbook highlights integrated weed management strategies and new control options, including herbicide capsules which are sealed in woody weeds for safer application and effervescent tablets to control water weeds.

Listing state priority weeds, including prohibited matter, there are now 336 weed species covered in the latest edition, 25 more than the last edition.

DPIRD training, including an induction course for new council weeds officers, understanding Prohibited Matter, vehicle and machinery hygiene, identifying Opuntioid cacti, water weeds and grasses, and biosecurity essentials complement the guide.

The weed control handbook is supported by NSW WeedWise, the complete digital guide to weed identification and management in NSW.

The weed control handbook is available from local council weeds officers and online.

of them were, but when Paul preached about Jesus Christ – someone with historical back-up, not carved in stone by a human hand – some began to sneer.

This first sermon Paul preached in Athens, was at the Areopagus known as Mars Hill, a marble hill next to the Acropolis. It wasn’t, however, in vain. The Bible tells us that several joined him and believed (Acts 17:34). Among them was Dionysius – a judge of the Areopagus – who, history tells us, became an overseer of the church in Athens.

The good news about Jesus Christ can meet with resistance from hardcore cynics, but among the many people who hear will be those who consider and recognize its value.

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.

A wheat harvest with wild oats present in the background. PHOTO: Chris Stacey GRDC INSET: Report Co-author, CSIRO Research Scientist Rick Llewellyn

Another record broken at Cowra as national indicators climb

By DAN RYAN with MLA

Cowra’s saleyard record has been broken for the third time in recent weeks, with the Miekeljohn Partnership and JJ Dresser and Co. reclaiming top honours.

The pen of heavy prime lambs sold for $468.20 on Wednesday, August 6, falling just short of the $477.20 national record held at the time.

It did not take long for the national record to also be broken, edging above $480 in the state’s south.

Meat and Livestock Australia’s market report confirmed an increase in yardings at Cowra, with 960 sheep yarded and 2660 lamb yarded to a total 3620, up by 550

on the previous week.

“Lamb numbers remained steady and quality improved with the trade and heavy weights in top condition, while the new seasons were also well presented with 400 offered.

“There were mainly trade and heavy weights supplied along with a few new season store lambs.

“All the buyers were operating as well as an extra couple and competition was strong resulting in a firm to dearer market,” the report said.

The MLA report detailed that lambs to the processors sold from $174 to $222 while store new seasons sold from $149 to $200/head.

Trade weight new season lambs

sold from $224 to $252/head.

Heavy trade weight old lambs were firm to $9/head dearer and averaged 1120c to 1250c/kg.

Heavy trade 23 to 24kg sold from $278 to $293/head.

Heavy weight lambs were firm to $10/head stronger mainly due to extra weight and averaged 1150c to 1200c/kg cwt.

Extra heavy weight lambs sold from $318 to $468.20/head.

Mutton numbers increased and prices lifted $20/head.

Heavy first cross ewes sold from $205 to $320/head or 730c to 810c/kg cwt.

Nationally, rain and new season lambs helped boost the restocker market, which rose 109c

“Supply and price of sheep and

lambs through yards lifted following last week’s market strength.

“Lamb yardings increased 16% to 174,971 head, and mutton yardings lifted 27% to 81,969.

“Dubbo, Forbes and Wagga saw their first solid lines of new season lambs – increasing competition for trade and heavy weights,” Erin Lukey, MLA Senior Market Information Analyst, said.

“Trade and heavy lambs both rose above 1,200c/kg carcase weight (cwt). The National Heavy Lamb Indicator lifted 65c to 1,247c/kg cwt with Carcoar seeing the highest average price at 1,319c/ kg cwt. The Trade Lamb Indicator rose 43c to 1,224c/kg cwt with the firmest price in Forbes at an average 1,270c/kg cwt.”

Dan Ryan

Staying in sheepwhat the numbers are saying

While the Australian sheep industry has faced its fair share of challenges over the decades, switching enterprises isn’t always the best move. Sheep producers are invited to take a clear-eyed, practical look at the future of the sheep industry at a series of free workshops across the Northern Tablelands this August.

Hosted by Northern Tablelands Local Land Services, ‘Staying in sheep: what the future holds’ workshops will run on 13 and 14 August in Walcha, Guyra and Glen Innes. Designed for sheep producers, whether they’re all-in on sheep or considering their options, the workshops will explore what’s really driving profitability in sheep enterprises.

Agrista’s Jess Paton will walk participants through benchmarking data that compares the financial performance of sheep against other enterprises and highlight the key factors that are driving enterprise performance.

“There’s a lot of speculation around the future of the wool industry. This workshop is about giving producers the facts and figures to help make confident, informed decisions,” said Jess Paton, Consultant, Agrista. “It’s not about talking the industry up or down - it’s about being clear on where the value is, and what it takes to capture it.”

Camilla Stokes, Senior Biosecurity Officer with Northern Tablelands Local Land Services, said producers will also hear about tools for assessing their own performance and making practical changes to improve outcomes.

“No two farms are the same but having a handle on how your business stacks up, and what the top performers are doing differently, is where the value lies,” said Ms Stokes.

Workshops will also feature a session on Ovine Johne’s Disease and on-farm vaccination safety, presented by Local Land Services District Veterinarians and Zoetis’ Dr Thomas Burke.

“Ovine Johne’s Disease is present across the Northern Tablelands and is something local producers need to understand. This session will focus on what’s relevant, what works and how producers can manage the risks,” said Ms Stokes.

The workshops are free to attend, but registration is essential as places are limited. To register, visit the Northern Tablelands Local Land Services Facebook page or register online. You can also call your local office on 1300 795 299 for more information.

Stock agents from JJ Dresser, again breaking records.

Cowra Public School recognises combined service of staff

Last Thursday, Cowra Public School Principal, Mrs Jenny Lewis, had the privilege of presenting three CPS staff members with their NSW Department of Education Service Certificates, at a special staff morning tea.

Service Certificates were presented to:

 Mrs Deidre Costa – 50 Years Service

 Mrs Kerry White – 40 Years Service

 Mrs Amanda Ross - 20 Years Service

Mrs Deidre Costa has

devoted an inspiring 50 years of service to the NSW Department of Education, demonstrating unwavering commitment and passion for her students, particularly children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Kerry White has made a significant impact over her 40 years of service, nurturing and guiding countless young minds and teaching generations of students at CPS. Amanda Ross has contributed 20 years of her expertise and care, as a School Learning Support

Officer, making a lasting difference in the lives of all of her students.

Thank you, Deidre, Kerry, and Amanda, for your exceptional service and the profound influence you have had on our educational community. You have truly made a difference.

Mrs Deidre Costa, Mrs Kerry White and Mrs Amanda Ross were presented with NSW Department of Education Service Certificates last week.

Shiroishi students build lifelong friendships in Cowra

The St Raph’s/Shiroishi High School exchange offered unique cultural experiences for both schools, including calligraphy lessons, farm visits and local tours.

St Raph’s staff, students and families recently welcomed eight students and their teacher from Shiroishi High School, along with Etsuko-san from Shiroishi City Council and their guide Middy, for a memorable 4 day cultural exchange - an annual highlight on the St Raphael’s Catholic School calendar.

After warm introductions and the chance to settle in, the full program got underway.

Highlights included classroom activities with their Host Buddies, a tour of local landmarks including the Peace Bell and Bellevue Hill, and an interactive quiz about where our St Raph’s students learnt more about Shiroishi and school routines in Japan.

The exchange offered unique cultural experiences for St Raph’s, such as a Japanese calligraphy lesson, and Matcha tea ceremony where the authentic sweets brought from Japan were a delightful treat.

In return, the Shiroishi group enjoyed a visit to Mr Ben Cooley’s farm, where they cuddled four-week-old puppies, witnessed lambs being born, and fed horses

- an unforgettable highlight for our visitors.

On Saturday, St Raph’s host families showed their guests around Cowra, sharing Saturday sports and even feeding a camel.

That evening, families came together over a BBQ and bonfire at the Bennett family home, where students shared stories of their stay and reflected on the friendships they had formed.

The visit concluded with a trip to the Japanese War Cemetery, POW Camp, and the serene Japanese Gardens.

When it came time to say goodbye, there was both laughter and tears - the emotional connections formed through overseas exchanges such as this are deep and long lasting.

Both Cowra and Shiroishi students promised to stay in touch, continuing the bond between their communities.

This exchange stands as a beautiful testament to friendship, understanding, and the enduring connection between Cowra and Shiroishi, and St Raph’s is honoured to maintain this legacy of cultural exchange.

Students get an early look into Ag careers

By DAN RYAN

Young people from across the region packed into the sheds at Cowra Showground last Thursday, August 7, for the Central West Poll Dorset Youth Day - an event designed to give students a hands-on look at careers in agriculture.

Schools from as far as Sydney to Mudgee joined the program, with many students coming from agricultural backgrounds and others getting their first real exposure to the industry. While some participating schools, such as The King’s School, Forbes High, Cowra High, Canowindra High and Orange High, already offer agriculturebased curriculums, the day provided valuable insight for students without a direct connection to farming.

Ruth Klingner from Ridge Haven Poll Dorsets in Cudal said the event’s reach was

one of its greatest strengths.

“There’s eleven different schools, kids from as far away as Sydney with the Kings School, St Pauls, TRAC, Cowra, Yass, Forbes, Orange, Mudgee and Grenfell,” she said.

With so many different backgrounds represented, the day offered a broad view of the industry, highlighting that there are more pathways into agriculture than simply working on a farm.

“If someone’s interested in the Poll Dorset stud, then they’ll get a little bit out of it from that perspective. But we focus on the whole lamb industry – yes, working on a farm is a fantastic job, but there’s a whole lot more in agriculture than working on a farm,” Ms Klingner said.

Hands-on sessions and rotating stalls guided students through every stage of the lamb industry from lambing and raising livestock to processing. For those not destined for a farm career, the lessons still connected them to the source of their food and clothing.

age young people into agriculture.

With the average age of an Australian farmer now 56, industry leaders are aware of the pressing need to encour-

“Not all these kids will work in agriculture, but hopefully most of them eat lamb,” said Ms Klingner. “So it’s still helping them to know what a good chop looks like versus a not so good chop might look like.”

“A lot of people are talking about farmers getting older and older, but we don’t do stuff for the youth it’s only going to perpetuate,” Ms Klingner said.

“We want people to open their eyes, see that ag is an opportunity, sheep is an opportunity, and it’s just something worth considering because if you don’t get exposed to it you don’t even think of it.”

Cowra Library Rhyme Time receives special guest

Cowra’s Rhyme Timers saddled up and celebrated the Horses Birthday during the week.

Jodie read a noisy version of ‘If I was a Horse’ by Sophie Blackall to our little riders.

Then it was time to see our super special guest of honour.

Kate and pony friend Shelby from @Cowra Pony Club.

The kids enjoyed patting and brushing

Shelby who gobbled an abundance of apples and carrots while Kate taught the kids all about horses.

It was a horse-filled fun Rhyme Time for everyone.

Cowra Library

Rhyme Time is held on Wednesdays at 10amjust come along.

Storytime at Cowra Library is lots of fun.

We read stories, sing songs, play games and make craft.

Storytime sessions are held every Thursday during the school term and cater for children from birth to 6 years, and their carers.

Storytime is free and each session lasts approximately one hour.

‘Shelby’

HEADACHE OUT OF THIS TAX SEASON

Some guests were a bit young for reading but were happy to meet Shelby.

Shelby enjoyed quite a few apples and pats in between stories.

and Kate Gavenlock from Cowra Pony Club were special guests at Cowra Library’s weekly Rhyme Time.

Where does the meat on the shelf come from? Students are taken through processing and chop judging.

Students look on under instruction to examine whether stock are in-lamb.

Students from across the region: Cameron Harrison, Orange High School, Alyssa Price, Canowindra High School, Jo Balcombe, Lilly Fragar, and Alex Newton, Orange High School, Monty Bragg, Kings College.

Throwback Thursday: Wyangala Dam falls to 7

By DAN RYAN

per cent

Twenty years ago, Cowra faced one of the toughest droughts on record. In 2005, creeks ran dry and motorists were left driving an extra kilometre or two to access Wyangala Waters.

At the time, two journalists from the Cowra Guardian, Janine Finlayson and Peter Clarke took to the air with pilot Don Hodge, to capture parched pastures and dry backyards across Cowra.

In June 2005, rainfall was about 120mm below average, following four dry years across the region. Across the autumn months, only 26.4mm fell: 20mm in March, 5.2mm

in April and 1.2mm in May. At one point, Cowra endured 54 days with rainfall of less than 1mm, at one point sweltering under 37 dry, sunny, days in the autumn of 2005.

While the 2025 autumn break came later in the year, the numbers tell an all-too-similar story. In March, Cowra Airport recorded 13.2mm of rain, 5.4mm in April, before a very welcome 51mm of rain at the end of May to total 69.6mm across the autumn months.

Drought-affected conditions persist today as they did 20 years ago. Across June, only 29.4mm of rain fell across the Cowra district, followed by 49.6mm through July.

Rainfall totals for the state through autumn.

IMAGE: supplied, Bureau of Meterology

The waterline along the Lachlan River painted a heartbreaking picture.

A rare albino kangaroo was spotted in the flyover.

Journalist Peter Clarke and pilot Don Hodge above Wyangala Dam in 2005.

Australian Gridded Climate Data

for

and

at Alston Bay, opposite

main beach at Wyangala Dam.

A farmer prepared his paddock in hope of rain in June 2005.

It’s hard to recognise the famous dam wall at Wyangala with floodgates keeping nothing in at all.

An aerial photo, pre-drone era shows Cowra in dry conditions looking from Mulyan Street to the Lachlan River.

Cowra Hospital on track for late 2025

By DAN RYAN

Construction of the longawaited $110.2 million Cowra Hospital Redevelopment is powering ahead, with the finish line now firmly in sight.

A Health Infrastructure spokesperson confirmed the project is entering its final stretch, with crews turning their attention to the finer details that will soon transform the site from a building project into a fully operational healthcare facility.

“Construction of the $110.2 million Cowra Hospital Redevelopment is progressing well, with the new facility nearing completion. Works are currently focused on the internal fit out and landscaping of the internal courtyard spaces,” the spokesperson said. It’s been a major undertak-

ing, reshaping the healthcare landscape for Cowra and its surrounding districts. Inside, the fit-out is well advanced.

“Finishing works including painting, joinery, and vinyl flooring installation throughout the hospital are under way. Externally, sunshades and awnings are nearing completion.”

The upgrades outside the facility are equally significant. The Brisbane Street driveway, the future gateway for emergency care - has been completed.

As with any major build, the final stages require some patience from staff and the public.

“Minor changes to vehicle and pedestrian routes are ongoing to facilitate construction, with all staff and visitors encouraged to follow the directions of signage and traffic controllers at all times.”

Beyond the bricks, mortar, and asphalt, the redevelopment is designed to change how healthcare is delivered in the region.

“Once complete, the Cow-

ra Hospital Redevelopment will enhance healthcare services for Cowra and the surrounding regions and increase capacity to better meet the current and future

health needs of the local community. The project is also providing a boost to the local economy during construction, supporting direct jobs and indirect jobs, and creating opportunities for local trades and suppliers in the region.”

The project - which began with early works and community consultation years in the making - has already made its mark on the town. For local tradespeople, suppliers, and contractors, it has provided not just a steady stream of work, but the chance to be part of a facility that will help address regional health needs for decades to come.

With the main structure now complete and the internal spaces taking shape, the focus is firmly on delivering a hospital that will meet modern clinical standards

while remaining accessible, welcoming, and adaptable for future needs. Landscaping of the internal courtyard spaces will help create a more therapeutic environment for patients and visitors, while modern finishes and facilities will streamline how care is delivered.

According to Health Infrastructure, everything remains on schedule.

“The redevelopment is on track for completion in late 2025 and the community will continue to be updated throughout the final stages of the hospital’s redevelopment,” the spokesperson said.

As the countdown to opening continues, Cowra can look forward to a hospital that blends cutting-edge healthcare with a design that reflects the changing needs of the community.

Cowra Council opens 2025–2026 Community Grants Program

Cowra Council has announced that applications are now open for the first round of the 2025–2026 Community Grants Program, offering funding to support local volunteer-run, not-forprofit organisations in delivering projects that benefit the wider community.

The Cowra Shire Council’s Community Grants Program is designed to support local, not-for-profit, and primarily volunteer-run groups within the Cowra Shire.

Since its launch in August 2015, the program has provided valuable funding to help community organisations enhance infrastructure, improve resources, and run initiatives that benefit the local area.

Available twice a year, the program offers grants of up to $3,000 per financial year.

Since its inception, it has funded more than 360 projects and distributed over $430,000 to local initiatives - a figure that has now grown to more than $456,000 supporting 382 community projects.

This long-running initiative demonstrates Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting and empowering the

community, boosting everything from grassroots sport to essential facility upgrades and new community events.

Funding can be used across five key categories:

 Building and facility development

 Arts and culture

 Small capital equipment

 Sport and recreation

 New community events

The goal of the program is to foster growth, inclusiv-

Our School Buses

ity, and sustainability in the local community by supporting projects that have a direct and positive impact on residents.

By offering financial assistance, the program helps community groups achieve their goals and further their missions, making Cowra a better place to live and work.

The most recent funding round saw 21 local projects share in more than $26,700,

If there is a seat belt on your seat make sure you wear it, the way you do while travelling in the car

Your bus driver's job is to keep everyone safe and they need to pay attention to the road while driving.

There are three seat belts on the seat, enough for students sitting by themselves or in twos or threes

with beneficiaries including Cowra Little Athletics, Cowra Uniting Food Hall, Woodstock Memorial Show, and the Salvation Army Cowra.

Funded projects ranged from air-conditioning and lighting upgrades to new equipment and event infrastructure.

The program also supports the Cowra 2036 Community Strategic Plan, which sets out a shared vision of “a leading,

innovative and creative community, proud of our place in history, offering opportunity with the best of country living.”

The community has identified eight key directions for achieving this vision:

 Health and Wellbeing

 Innovation and Education

 Liveability

 Community Leadership and Engagement

 Business and Industry

 Transport and Infrastructure

 Environmental Sustainability and Stewardship

 Reconciliation and Inclusion

To be eligible, organisations must:

 Be an incorporated notfor-profit entity

 Be primarily volunteer run

 Be based within the Cowra Shire and able to show how their project will directly benefit local residents

 Have acquitted all previous Cowra Shire Council grants

 Have no outstanding debts to Council Applications for Round 1 close on Thursday, 29 August 2025.

The application process is straightforward, with guidelines available from the Cowra Council website or the Council administration building.

For assistance, applicants can contact the Council’s Grants and Executive Projects Officer.

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 seat belts, 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 02 6342 1021 and we will be happy to help.

Representatives of local community groups that were recipients under the 2022 round of community grants.

This photograph from Andrew at Over and Above photography shows progress is full steam ahead at the hospital. Photo used with permission

Progress in reducing teen smoking slowed as vaping increased

New research from the Daffodil Centre, a joint venture between Cancer Council NSW and the University of Sydney, reveals that Australia’s progress in reducing adolescent smoking has slowed since about 2010, and vaping may be the reason.

The study, published in the Medical Journal of Australia, conducted prior to the current policy approach on vaping, analysed population-level data from more than 170,000 students aged 12–17 surveyed between 1999 and 2022/23 as part of the Australian Secondary Students’ Alcohol and Drug (ASSAD) survey.

Researchers compared smoking trends from 1999–2009, when vaping was rare or non-existent in Australia, with those from 2010–2022/23 when e-cigarettes emerged, becoming widely used. They examined five key behaviours: ever, past year, past month, past week, and daily smoking.

Sam Egger, lead author and Statistician at the Daffodil Centre said that while smoking continued to decline after 2010, the rate of decline slowed significantly across all five behaviours from 2010 onwards, coinciding with the emergence and rise of vaping in Australia.

The study challenges a common misconception that if vaping was truly causing more teens to smoke, youth smoking rates would be going up, “we often hear that if vaping caused teens to smoke, we should be seeing smoking rates rise,” explained Mr Egger, “but that’s a misunderstanding. If vaping is leading more teens to smoke, we wouldn’t necessarily see smoking rates rise. We’d more likely see smoking rates continue to fall, but at a slower pace than before vaping became available.” he said.

The study showed that 13.2% of 12-17 year olds had tried smoking by 2022/23. But if the pre-2010 smoking trend had continued, that number would have been just 5.8%.

Co-author on the study

Professor Becky Freeman from the University of Sydney and Chief Investigator of the Generation Vape research project, said the findings contradict claims that vaping may be accelerating the decline in teen smoking.

falling more slowly than they were before vaping became common,” she said.

“Some have claimed that vaping is helping to drive teen smoking rates down faster, but our study found the opposite. Yes, smoking rates are falling, but they are

“That’s a real concern given how much progress had been made prior to ecigarettes becoming available.”

This study is the first in Australia to examine wheth-

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er the rise of vaping may have affected teen smoking at the population-level. The findings reinforce the team’s 2024 results from the Generation Vape study, which showed that adolescents who had vaped were more likely to go on to try smoking than those who had not. That

earlier study was the first in Australia to demonstrate this link.

“These results reinforce what many public health experts have feared: vaping isn’t helping kids avoid smoking, it appears to be derailing our progress,” Anita Dessaix, co-author and Chair of Can-

cer Council’s Public Health Committee, said.

“Australia’s longstanding approach to tobacco control, helped to lessen the impact of vaping on smoking uptake, but we can’t stop yet.

“It’s important to note that our analysis is based on data collected before the 2024 vaping reforms came into effect. Now that those reforms are in place, we need strong, coordinated enforcement to make sure they work to protect the health of young people. We are committed to supporting the strong action taken by the Commonwealth Government to regulate the sales of vapes and e-cigarettes,” Ms Dessaix said.

The findings are consistent with those of a recent New Zealand analysis by the same research team, published in The Lancet Regional Health: Western Pacific. That study also found that progress in reducing teen smoking slowed after 2010, following the emergence and rise of vaping in New Zealand.

“The pattern of slowing progress in reducing adolescent smoking following the emergence of vaping in both Australia and New Zealand is similar in a manner that seems unlikely to be a coincidence,” Mr Egger said.

Study finds Vaping may have slowed Australia’s progress in reducing teen smoking.

PHOTO: Sebastian Radu on Unsplash

150 years of Canowindra Public Education

The Canowindra community is set to celebrate a remarkable milestone in its history as it marks the 150th anniversary of public education in the town. A weekend filled with engaging activities, reflections, and community spirit is scheduled for Friday 31st October – Sunday 2nd November, inviting all residents, former students, educators, and friends of Canowindra Public School to ‘Come Home’ and join in the festivities.

This historic celebration will take place at the Canowindra Public School and surrounding venues, showcasing the rich history and achievements of public education in the area. The weekend will feature a range of events, including:

-Welcome Cocktail Party: Kick off the celebrations with

friends at the Welcome Cocktail Party at Perenialle Plants, reconnect and reminisce with great food and talented ex students entertaining us. 6- 9pm tickets are $40 and available through Eventbrite.

-Canowindra Public School Fete and Open Day: 11am -2pm at CPS Tilga St - A day of activities for all ages, kicking off with a School Talent Showcase and Official Opening at 11am. Our

Fete includes laser tag, fun games, face painting, class fete stalls, P&C canteen for lunch, markets, interactive workshops and school memorabilia on display. Everyone is welcome.

-Canowindra High School Open Day and Picnic Brunch: 8am – 12pm at CHS Browns Ave -Enjoy a delicious brunch curated by the Hospitality Students, a relaxed morning providing an opportunity for

community members to connect and reminisce about their educational experiences at Canowindra High School. This milestone celebration is a tribute to the dedication of educators, the resilience of students, and the support of families throughout the decades. With an emphasis on community involvement, the event aims to foster connections between past and present, ensuring that the legacy

of public education in Canowindra continues to thrive.

“We are excited to commemorate 150 years of public education in Canowindra,” said Sharon Hawker, Principal of Canowindra Public School. “This celebration not only honours our past but also inspires future generations to value education as a cornerstone of our community.”

Members of the communi-

ty are encouraged to participate in the celebrations and share their stories and memories of public education in Canowindra. For more information on the event schedule and how to get involved, please visit https://www.facebook.com/CanowindraPublicSchool

‘Come Home’ as we celebrate the past, present, and future of public education in Canowindra.

Time to strike a good deal

As Australia undergoes the shift to renewables, rural and regional communities are demonstrating new ways of securing a good deal from large-scale solar, wind and battery projects.

This is the conclusion of a new report – Striking a New Deal for Renewables in Regions – authored by the Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal (FRRR) and Projects JSA, as part of the Striking a New Deal collaboration. It comes ahead of a first-ofits-kind national gathering of local government and regional development leaders at a Summit hosted by REAlliance in Newcastle.

The report draws on insights from leaders in regions with significant renewable energy investments around Australia and outlines the common risks and opportunities facing their communities.

While the majority of Australians living in regional communities generally support the nation’s shift to renewable energy according to studies from CSIRO, FCA, and Porter Novelli, the report clearly shows that the first phase of this change has been challenging.

Leaders have been grappling with significant uncertainty about what will actually be built and when; the local risks and opportunities of these developments for their economy, environment and community; and limited

local agency to influence the development process.

With the need to replace aging coal-fired power stations, state and federal governments have so far been ‘building the plane while flying it’. However, with clearer policies and more projects reaching the approval stage, solutions to common issues have emerged, creating more opportunities for regions to achieve meaningful and lasting benefits from investments.

Sarah Matthee, Climate Solutions Portfolio Lead at FRRR, noted, “Communities simply want a good deal in return for hosting this new energy infrastructure. They want certainty, more clarity on the opportunities and risks of these projects, more resourcing and more agency in the decisions being made that will impact their regions for decades to come.”

Lead author, Jack Archer, added, “Development at this scale will never be universally popular, but if locals can see they have been heard and clearly understand how their community will benefit, there can be enduring

support for the energy shift in regions across Australia.”

The report recommends government and industry collaborate to produce risk and opportunity accounts, to act as living ledgers, to make the terms of the local deal clearer. Currently information is fragmented and buried in planning documents, and with misinformation on social media and in local networks, it’s difficult for locals to understand what’s going to happen, if they will be better off and what issues need further work as development progresses.

The report also recommends combining the transparency of these new accounts with upgrades to community services and housing, ongoing input from local leaders in the development process and genuine security that benefits will be delivered.

“This set of actions is the key to unlocking the local social licence governments and industry are seeking. It’s a practical approach that can be implemented quickly and it will change the game,” Jack Archer said.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

WHEN: Wednesday 3rd Sep 2025

TIME: 9.30am

LOCATION: Forbes Services Club

at 12.30pm

Sungrow EMEA/unsplash

An aerial shot of Canowindra Public School.

PHOTO: Supplied

ACROSS

1 Name a pioneer in hypnosis, Franz Anton ... (6)

7 What is the science of being, as such (8)

8 Which term describes someone new to the work, etc (6)

9 What is a state of sleep or drowsiness (8)

10 To feel self-reproach, is to do what (6)

11 Which term suggests something revolting (8)

14 What are constituent parts of a whole (8)

18 To set on fire, is to do what (6)

19 What do we call the last work of a composer (4,4)

21 What is a lump of native gold (6)

22 Name the smallest particle of a substance capable of independent existence (8)

23 Which term describes “of two parts” (6)

DOWN

1 Name a renowned magician (8)

2 Name an unmarried woman (6)

3 Who discovered X-rays in 1895, Wilhelm Konrad ... (8)

4 What is a colloquial term for a prison (4)

5 When one jostles, one does what (6)

6 Which attitude stereotypes an elderly person according to age, other than individual abilities (6)

12 To not have a signature, is to be what (8)

13 Which term describes that which is selected from diverse sources (8)

E-QUATIONS 7

15 Name a renowned Australian writer of verse and prose, Henry ... (6)

Letters have a number value Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in 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.

16 What is a stable trough from which cattle eat (6)

17 What is something puzzling or inexplicable (6)

20 Which term implies a burden or a responsibility (4)

Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.

1 QUIDDITY

(a) A confection of quince juice and sugar (b) Chewing tobacco

(c) The essence of anything

2 SPISSITUDE

(a) Density

(b) Lasting ill will (c) Flashiness

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:

Blood fluid (5)

Cow’s stomach (5)

Deserve (5)

Increase in breadth (5)

Males (3)

Number (3)

Opening in bone (7)

Pig (3)

Public processions (7) Ruin (3)

Agent’s Choice

3

AGENT

Sydney Roosters v Canterbury Bulldogs. 9.55 Golden Point. 10.45 MOVIE: Man On A Ledge. (2012) 12.40 Tipping Point. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 2.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.30 Whose Line Is It Anyway? 2.50 Heartbreak

6.00 Kids’ Programs. 3.00 Play School. 4.10 Andy’s Global Adventures. 4.25 Mecha Builders. 5.20 Thomas And Friends. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.30 Good Game Spawn Point. 8.05 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.35 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.00 Robot Wars. 10.00 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs.

8.30 MOVIE: San Andreas. (2015) 10.45 MOVIE: Collateral Beauty. (2016) 12.45 Late Programs. 6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules: High Stakes. 12.00 Revenge. 3.00 First Dates Australia. 4.05 Sean’s Kitchen. 4.35 MOVIE: Stuart Little. (1999) 6.25 MOVIE: Nanny McPhee. (2005) 8.30 MOVIE: Easy

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 My

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Harry’s Practice. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Horse Racing. The Rosebud Day, Caulfield P.B. Lawrence Stakes Race Day and Mekka Raceday. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 5.00 The Yorkshire Steam Railway: All Aboard. 6.00 Every Bite Takes You Home. 6.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Grantchester. 1.15 Professor T. 2.05 All Creatures Great And Small. Final. 2.50 Great Southern Landscapes. 3.25 Earth. 4.25 Would I Lie To You? 4.55 Dr Ann’s Secret Lives. 5.30 Landline. 6.00 Australian Story. 6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Grantchester. Final. 8.20 Midsomer Murders. 9.50 The Family Next Door. 10.40 Miss Austen. 11.35 Rage. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Super Monsters. 5.40 Peter

6.00 Morning Programs. 3.35 You Can’t Ask That. 3.55 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Car S.O.S. 6.15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 7.05 House Of Games. 7.35 QI. 8.05 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (NZ) 8.50 The Stand Up Sketch Show. 9.40 Extras: Xmas Special. 11.00 Late Programs.

6.00

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Border Security: International. 12.30 Football. AFL. Gold Coast Suns v GWS Giants. 3.30 Horse Racing. The Rosebud Day, Caulfield P.B. Lawrence Stakes Race Day and Mekka Raceday. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Great Outdoors. 7.30 Ron Iddles: The Good Cop. 8.35 MOVIE: The Martian. (2015) Matt Damon. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 NFL. NFL. Preseason. Week 2. Seattle Seahawks v Kansas City Chiefs. 3.30 Teeing Off With Daisy Thomas. 4.00 Motor MythBusters. 5.00 Counting Cars. 5.30 Football. AFL Women’s. Round 1. GWS Giants v Essendon. 7.30 Pawn Stars. 9.30 American Pickers. 10.30 Air Crash Inv. 11.30 Late Programs.

9.25 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.05 Speechless. 10.45 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Cronulla Sharks v Titans. 2.30 NRLW Wrap. 3.15 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Broncos v Eels. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 24. South Sydney Rabbitohs v Parramatta Eels. 9.25 Soccer. English Premier League. Matchweek 1. Aston Villa v Newcastle United. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.40 My Asian Banquet. 1.15 Jabba’s Movies. 1.45 My France With Manu. 2.40 Starstruck. 3.55 Aust Got Talent. 5.45 MOVIE: Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs. (2009) 7.30 MOVIE: Evan Almighty. (2007) 9.30 MOVIE: Fun With Dick And Jane. (2005) 11.20 MOVIE: The Favourite. (2018) 1.40 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.10 GCBC. 12.30 Expedition Tasmania. 1.00 The Yes Experiment. 1.30 4x4 Adventures. 2.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly Australia. 3.30 Pooches At Play. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield. 5.00 10 News. 6.30 The Dog House Australia. 7.30 Selling Houses Australia. 8.30 Ambulance Australia. 9.40 Gordon Ramsay’s Secret Service. 10.40 Elsbeth. 11.35 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 3.00 Rugby Union. Shute Shield. Finals. Week 1. 5.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 7. New Zealand Warriors v Canberra Raiders. 7.00 Keeping Up Appearances. 7.30 MOVIE: You’ve Got Mail. (1998) 9.55 MOVIE: Magic Mike’s Last Dance. (2023) 12.10 Late Programs.

Islands Of The

4.30 Joanna Lumley’s

Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Harry’s Practice. 10.30 Escape To The Country. 1.30 Discover. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. 3.00 Your Money & Your Life. 3.30 The Zoo. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 7.00 Greatest Escapes To The Country. 7.45 Mrs Brown’s Boys. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 Manhunt: The Night Stalker. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Sound FX: Best Of. 9.00 NFL. NFL. Preseason. Week 2. Los Angeles Rams v Los Angeles Chargers. 12.00 The Fishing Show. 1.00 Fishing Addiction. 2.00 Fishy Business. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 23. Sydney v Geelong. 6.00 The Wash Up. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: Gladiator. (2000) 11.40 Late Programs.

5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Compass. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Austin. 8.00 The Family Next Door. 8.55 Miss Austen. Final. 9.50 MOVIE: Puberty Blues. (1981) 11.15 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. 11.45 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 5.10 Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge. 5.25 We’re Going On A Bear Hunt. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.30 Paddington. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show.

To Eat. 4.05 Would I Lie To You? 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Car S.O.S. 6.15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 7.05 House Of Games. Final. 7.35 QI. 8.05 The Piano UK. 8.55

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A more harmonious aspect favors all relationships. Family ties with mates and children are strengthened. Libra is Cupid’s choice to win the amorous Arian’s heart.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) The bold Bull is ready to take on fresh challenges. Expect some opposition as you plough up new ground, but supporters will outnumber detractors.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) An upcoming job change could mean uprooting your family to a far-distant location. Weigh all considerations carefully before making a decision one way or the other.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A long-standing problem is resolved by a mutually agreed upon compromise. You can now focus on getting the facts you’ll need for a decision that you’ll soon be asked to make.

6.00 Morning Programs. 1.45 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 7. Sydney Roosters v Newcastle Knights. 3.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 24. North Queensland Cowboys v Newcastle Knights. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 The Block. 8.40 60 Minutes. 9.40 9News Late. 10.10 Body In The Suitcase. 11.10 The First 48. 12.05 Late Programs.

6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 10.00 Behave Yourself. 11.00 Take Me Out. 1.35 Home And Away. 4.30 The Voice. 6.00 Gold Coast Ocean Rescue. 6.30 Puppy School. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. 10.30 Bones. 12.30 Lie To Me. 1.30 Alias. 3.00 Burn Notice. 5.00 American Crime.

6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures. 9.30 Good Chef Bad Chef. 10.00 MasterChef Australia. 1.30 Location, Location, Location Australia. 2.30 House Hunters Australia. 3.00 Australia By Design: Architecture. 3.30 Wheel Of Fortune. 4.00 Lingo.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 The Baron. 1.30 MOVIE: The Hallelujah Trail. (1965) 4.30 Dad’s Army. 5.00 M*A*S*H. 6.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 7. North Queensland Cowboys v Canterbury Bulldogs. 8.00 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: The Silence Of The Lambs. (1991) 10.55 The Closer. 11.55 Late Programs.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) The Big Cat needs to be wary of what appears to be a golden investment opportunity. This “sure thing” could turn out to be nothing more than a sack of kitty litter.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) You give of yourself generously to help others, but right now, you must allow people to help you. Confide your problems to family and trusted friends.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Relationships benefit from a strong harmonious aspect. Things also go more smoothly at work. Someone you thought you’d never see again asks for a reconciliation.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) A minor distraction interferes with travel plans, but the delay is temporary. Meanwhile, expect to play peacemaker once again for feuding family members.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Keep positive momentum going on the home front. Arrange your schedule to spend more time with your family. You’ll soon have news about a certain job change.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Control your possessive tendency that sometimes goads you into an unnecessary display of jealousy. You could be creating problems where none currently exist.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) A new project holds some challenges that you hadn’t expected. But don’t be discouraged; you’ll find that you’re more prepared to deal with them than you realized.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Yours is the sign of the celestial chemist, so don’t be surprised if you experience a pleasant “chemistry” betwixt yourself and a new Leo in your life.

Shed

By R SANSUM

As

For

New members are always welcome, stay warm and look out for roos on our roads.

With best wishes, from the Cowra Men’s Shed.

The Animal Welfare League NSW is conducting free veterinary services in Canowindra on Friday, 15 August 2025 from 8am - 11am at the Canowindra Showground. This is open to anyone within the Cabonne LGA. This is a separate outreach program to the discounted vaccination vouchers Cabonne Council is offering to residents.

Men’s Shed

PHOTOS: Dan Ryan

Cowra women storm home after long layoff

After six weeks without a game, Cowra’s women’s side made a triumphant return to the pitch with a commanding 5–1 win over a strong Waratahs Blue outfit on Saturday.

Coach Mitchell Thompson admitted the opening stages were tense, with the Waratahs pressing hard and testing Cowra’s defence in the first 15 minutes.

“The team were so nervous and it showed,” Thompson said. “Waratahs came out fast attacking our goal early.”

Once the side settled into rhythm, Cowra began to dominate possession in the opposition half. A sweeping move down the right led to a pinpoint cross from Jaca, met perfectly by Allie Woods

who volleyed home to open the scoring.

The second half saw Cowra sharpen their passing game and exploit space with well-timed through balls, adding four more goals via Candice, Courtney B, Tay, and Jaca. Thompson praised the even spread of scorers as a sign of the team’s depth.

Defensively, the backline absorbed plenty of pressure from Waratahs’ quick strikers, with goalkeeper Linda Woods impressing for her decisive interventions.

A special mention went to Courtney M, who returned from running the City2Surf in Sydney to take the field the same day.

the house down despite not playing for six weeks,” Thompson said. “I’m proud of their commitment.”

The Player’s Player award went to Allison Buttigeig. Cowra now turn their focus to building momentum ahead of the finals.

C Grade Put 12 Past Waratahs

Cowra’s C Grade side produced an attacking masterclass at home, thumping Waratahs 12–3 under coach Drew Willis.

Brown controlled the centre of the park, helping to stifle Waratahs’ forward threats.

Willis said the performance was a confidence boost for his young side but warned against complacency. “There were moments where we got comfortable, which led to lazy shots and passes,” he said. “It’s important to keep the mindset that there’s always room to improve.”

Senior Men Hold Barnies to a Draw

Cowra’s senior men played out a tight contest with Barnies, finishing locked at 1–1.

“This group have trained

A four-goal haul from Toby Morrison led the way, with Connor Munroe (3), Levi Strange (2), Toby Croker (2) and Tyler Morgan also finding the net. Midfield generals Jack Croker and Jackson

Cowra will look to build on the result as they push toward the end of the season.

Eagles Bowls hosts guests, Spring preps begin

ON THE GREEN WITH EAGLES BOWLS

Tuesday 5th the Cowra Ladies played the semi-finals of the Cowra Women’s Triples with Sonia Morgan, Joan Bailey and Dawn Dye defeating Eileen Brown, Jo Davies and Dorcas Presnell 19/14, whilst Mim Schroder, Jane Kiernicki and Leila Burns accounted for Robyn Nelligan, Marlene Nicholls and Sharen Hubber 25/17.

In a 1st round match of Men’s A Grade Singles on Wednesday 6th Mark Hubber, in a very close contest, defeated Mick Baldwin, whilst Rob Oliver had a very good win over Steve Treasure in a 1st round match of Men’s

B Grade Singles. Last Thursday we had the Final of the Cowra Women’s Triples with Sonia Morgan, Joan Bailey and Dawn Dye having a lengthy tussle and eventual win over Mim Schroder, Jane Kiernicki and Leila Burns. Across the weekend we hosted thirty-three visiting teams, plus nine local teams of bowlers, in our initial Cowra Breakout Pairs Tournament. Everyone had a great weekend, with absolutely fabulous weather for bowls, could not have asked for better.

After 4 rounds to decide the top 8 teams, we had a short play-off series to decide the eventual winners and

placings, with the following results.

1st Scott Rawson & Mick Anderson (Goulburn & Hazelbrook)

2nd Aaron Seves & Glenn

Perrin (Cabramatta)

3rd Ian & Lesley Townsend (Lithgow)

4th Todd Fisher & Brent

Lees (Canowindra)

5th Phil Barnard & Paul

Lewin (Parkes Railway)

6th Joe Burgin & Laurie Chew (Cowra Eagles)

7th Frank Mierczak & Jeff Platts (Lithgow City)

8th Kathy Betcher & Kate Cooper (Grenfell)

Saturday Shootout - Dorcas Presnell (Cowra Eagles)

1st Round Sonia & Bob Morgan (Cowra Eagles)

2nd Round Michelle Lane & Jason Nunan (Wallerawang)

3rd Round John Bischof & Dave Hart (Cowra Eagles)

4th Round Danny Quinn & Shane Funnell (Wallacia & St Johns Pk)

Whilst we were enjoying the event at Cowra, we also had five of our newer bowlers (Brian Potts, Geoff Payne, Shane Beasley, Ian (Wal) Walker and Brayden Chew) representing our club at Canowindra on Saturday in the NSW Rookies Singles, with Wal and Brayden getting through to the Regional playoffs at Orange on Sunday. Wal and Brayden faced each other in the 1st match of the day, with Brayden sneaking across the line 17 shots

to 16. Brayden then went on to a great 17/5 win over his Wallerawang opponent in the semi-finals, followed up with a fabulous 17/8 win over his Parkes opponent in the Final.

Brayden is now off to Raymond Terrace later in the year to compete in the State Rookies Finals. Congratulations to all the winners across all events in the past week or so and congratulations also to everyone that competed. Thank you to everyone (too many to individually name) that assisted in the running of these events.

Upcoming Matches and Events.

Our ladies’ State fours team of Sonia Morgan, Dawn Dye,

Sharon Bohanna, and Sharen Hubber will now play their delayed match at Canowindra this Saturday. A date for the final of the Men’s Club Pairs is still to be determined.

The remaining 1st round matches of the Men’s Graded Singles will be played this Saturday & the semi-finals on Sunday.

The Spring Business House Bowls will commence Thursday 18th September and is played over 6 Thursdays. I would encourage all our local businesses and enterprises to enter a team, as a local charity is always the recipient of our fundraising.

Good bowling everyone until next week.

2025/26 Women’s Triples R/up - Mim Schroder, Jane Kiernicki and Leila Burns.

2025/26 Women’s Triples Winners - Dawn Dye, Joan Bailey and Sonia Morgan.

2025 Cowra Breakout Pairs Saturday Shoot-out - Dorcas Presnell.

2025 Cowra Breakout Pairs - 1st Scott Rawson and Mick Anderson.

2025 Cowra Breakout Pairs - 2nd Aaron Seves and Glenn Perrin.

On the fairways with Vet’s

Golf

Full house for Cowra open.

With the return of some good winter weather saw golfers out in good numbers this past week.

Tuesdays 18 hole and 9 hole events have 38 players. While on Wednesday the Ladies had 15 contest the event.

Thursday we had 46 players in the Veterans 9 hole comp while 41 players played the 18 hole event.

Over the weekend we held the Cowra open sponsored by Jeff’s Joinery & Building Centre, JD Welding and Ben Core Electrical.

Saturday saw 129 players with 56 members and 73 visitors playing, while on Sunday we had 119 players a great turnout for golf in Cowra

Tuesday results

18 hole: 1- David Gouge 36 pts; 2- Peter Garlick 35 pts c/b; 3- Geoff Curtale 35 pts

9 hole: 1- David Fagan 18 pts c/b; 2- Ray Salisbury 18 pts

Wednesday Ladies over all

1- Cheryl McKeown 75 c/b; 2- Deb Gumley 75; 3- Eileen Wilson 78

Club Medal: Div 1- Eileen Wilson 78 c/b; Div 2- Deb Gumley 75

NTP: 7th hole Cheryl McKeown; 14th hole Eileen Wilson

Putting comp Carmel Mansell- 31 putts

Thursday 18 hole comp

A Grade: 1- Brett Bembrick 39 pts; 2- Bob Morgan 36 pts; 3- Terry WinwoodSmith 33 pts c/b

B grade: 1- David Booth 38 pts; 2- Bruce Amos 37 pts; 3- Mark Edwards 36 pts

NTP: 7th hole Peter Garlick; 14th hole Jeff MacPherson

Cowra Open Saturday

A Grade: SCR Winner- Michael Curtale

68; SCR runner up- Jarrod Porter Yass GC

71 Nett Winner - Rodney Eastwood 71 c/b Nett R/U - Michael Brooks 71

B Grade: Scr Winner Aaron Leete

Mudgee GC 80 c/ b Scr R/U Donny

Sproh 80 Nett Winner Tim Brady 66 Nett

R/U Marty Starr 69 C Grade Scr Winner

Bernie McGlinchey Jamberoo GC 92 c/

b Scr R/U Mark Edwards 92 Nett Winner

Colin Ridding 69 Nett R/U Clive Wilson 73 Ladies Scr Eileen Wilson 99 Nett Linda McGlinchey Jamberoo GC 85 NTP 5th hole

Rodney McDonald 130 cm 7th hole Colin

Van Woerkom 103 cm 14th hole Mark

Pinkerton 23 cm 16th hole Jarrod Wood

27 cm NTP Approach 3rd hole Anthony

Rath 110 cm 10th hole Colin Stockley 87 cm Sunday open A Grade Scr Winner Paul Bright Royal Canberra GC 69 Scr R/U Caleb

Hanrahan Forbes GC 70 Nett Winner Ken

McLean 70 Nett R/U Christopher Sutanto Fox Hills GC 71 c/b B Grade Scr Winner

Richard Enzerink 84 Scr R/U Mathew Dunn

86 Nett Winner Alfonso Melisi 70 Nett

R/U John Holmes 74 C Grade Scr Winner

Mark Troth 87 Scr R/U Matt Devlin 95 Nett Winner Clive Wilson 75 Nett R/U Wil

Sutton 75 Ladies Scr Elizabeth Armstrong

Jamberoo GC 95 Nett Eileen Wilson 92 NTP

5th hole Nicky Basson 144 cm 7th hole

Joey Dean 232 cm 14th hole Nicky Basson

130 cm 16 th hole Will Stephenson 350 cm

Approach NTP

3rd hole Will Turner 60 cm

10th hole John Ball 52 cm

Over all results

A Grade: Champion Dominic Falk

Goulburn GC 67,73. Runner Up Cooper

Giddings Dubbo GC 69, 72 Nett Winner

Will Turner Mudgee GC 142 Nett Nett R /U

David Kang 143 Nett B Grade Scr Winner

Terry Winwood -Smith 165 Scr R/U Shane

Wilson Lynwood GC 167 Nett Winner Adam

Rodges 144 Nett Nett R/U Peter Kaden Nett

145 Nett C Grade Scr Winner Johns Van

Huizen 175 Scr R/U David Thomas 185 Nett

Winner Jeffrey Marks 146 c/b Nett R/U

David Gouge 146 Jeff’s Joinery & Building

Tradie Champion Matt Dunn Nett 146

Ladies Champion Jenny Dresser 182 Nett

Winner April Van Woerkom The Grange GC

166 Nett.

Tigers still in the hunt

First grade, league tag sides continue Woodbridge Cup campaigns

RUGBY LEAGUE

By RENEE POWELL

Let’s go, Tigers. Canowindra’s Woodbridge Cup campaign returns to Tom Clyburn Oval this weekend, after disappointment for first grade in the opening round of the 2025 finals.

Sunday’s clash of the Tigers saw Oberon dominate on their home ground, winning 45-10.

Canowindra to host Orange United Warriors this Saturday for the opportunity to advance to the next round.

Our league tag side had a win to see them on the road to take on Cowra Sunday, but our youth league’s season has ended with a loss.

FIRST GRADE

Tigers were down nine of their senior squad heading into Sunday’s qualifier, and a number of Under 18s backed up from their own game in Manildra to sit on the bench for the first grade.

Oberon scored within three minutes of kick-off in Sunday’s clash in a less-than-ideal start, but Canowindra snapped straight back to level the scores at 6-6 seven minutes in to the game.

A beautiful ball from Wally Gaeta out to Jonty Thurgate saw the winger run 20 metres and score in the corner.

Tigers had plenty of possession in these early stages and John Grant put them in the lead 18 minutes in when he put a grubber down to see Canowindra in front 6-10.

Oberon was next to seize an opportunity, and ran in a second soft try to have a half-time lead of 18-10.

The second half opened with

Josh Cooney runs the ball forward for

home this Saturday to take on Orange United

Tigers down a player due to a sin binning and Oberon made the most of it – running in three tries in 10 minutes to take hold of the game.

Tigers pushed themselves hard and made some promising plays, but Oberon ran in a few late tries and added a field goal on full time for a final score of 45-10.

LEAGUE TAG

Canowindra’s Tigresses have dominated their elimination semi-final with a 26-8 win in the league tag over Grenfell to earn themselves another game in Cowra, against Cowra.

Laura Price, who bagged her

hat trick for the match, opened the scoring for Canowindra in cool conditions at Oberon on Sunday. Adison Newcombe sprinted 40m before sending the ball back into the centre to Price who scored near the post to see Canowindra lead 4-0 10 minutes into the match.

Lily Bannan extended that to 8-nil when she went round the fullback to cross the line with 12 minutes to go in the first half.

Price made her second just a few minutes later, skirting down the short side and cleverly evading Grenfell’s fullback to score

under the posts, with the conversion making it 14-0.

There were just minutes to half time and the Tigresses were putting in some good work in defence, but the Girlannas went through for their first to see the half time score 14-4.

They seized an opportunity and narrowed the gap to 14-8 early in the second half but that was as far as the Tigresses were going to let them go.

Canowindra was on the attack again and Taleitha O’Byrne pounced on a kick from the last tag to give Canowindra a 20-8 lead.

Price sealed the deal when she swooped on the ball, found open spaces on the edge and sprinted 70m to put it down under the post.

Bannan’s conversion made it 26-8 and earned Tigresses another game, they travel to Cowra on Sunday.

YOUTH LEAGUE

Scores were locked at full time but it was the young Rhinos who survived Sunday’s youth league elimination semi-final at Manildra.

Kaiden Cole ran in two tries for Canowindra, Jason McCann and Noah Brown one apiece, to see the scores level at 20-20 when the full time whistle sounded. Cooper Breen scored in extra time to thrill the Tigers’ supporters, but the Rhinos responded late and the conversion gave them the advantage with the final score 26-24.

This sees the young Tigers’ 2025 campaign come to an end, and the club particularly appreciates those who immediately got on the road to Oberon to sit on the bench for the first grade side.

the Tigers, who are back at

Warriors.

Park Run hits stride this winter

Park Run has been in full stride throughout the winter, with joggers helping themselves to stay warm with sporting off-seasons in sight. More than just a chance to get fit; it’s about building connections and having fun along the way.

So, if you’re looking to try something new, meet new people, or just get active in a supportive environment, Cowra Park Run might be the place for you.

When is it?

Every Saturday at 8am. Where is it?

The event takes place at the Cowra Breakout Cycleway and Walking path, Corner of Evans Street and Sakura Avenue, Cowra, NSW 2794. See Course page for more details. What does it cost to join in?

Nothing - it’s free! but please register before you first come along. Only ever register with parkrun once and don’t forget to bring a scannable copy of your barcode (request a reminder). If you forget it, you won’t get a time. How fast do I have to be?

We all take part for our own enjoyment. Please come along and join in whatever your

Cowra parkrun needs you!

It is entirely organised by volunteers - email cowra@parkrun.com to help.

Park run volunteers brave the cold to ensure a smooth operation.

Cowra women

storm home after long layoff

Page 21

Magpies grind showcased teamwork at Manildra

By DAN RYAN

Coming off the back of a defeat at Sid Kallas the previous week, the Magpies raised a few heartbeats at Manildra but were unfortunately just shy of victory.

First blood came from Josh Weston, planting a handy try for the Magpies and causing Manildra’s confidence - earned by a sound win on Magpies home turf - to shatter, with the team switching on.

The first half saw an aggressive force against the Magpies, with a few opportunities to exploit mistakes lost.

The Magpies defense held up against a relentless assault, however Manildra managed two tries in quick succession just before half time.

Cowra answered, putting Manildra on the back foot with Ricky Whitton and Dan Hatch each making stunning breakthroughs, supported by team mates and converting.

“I think if we had another five minutes of that energy we would have taken the game” said Mr Ingram. “It was a really good performance by us, just a bit bit unlucky. We were finishing the stronger of the two, and we just couldn’t crack the opportunities in the end. So, it is what it is but it was a much better performance than the previous week.”

Manildra’s performance had been strong, however the Magpies came away having worked well as a team.

“The boys were making that extra effort on the inside and your teammates, not focusing on individual stuff or anything like that - we do what we can to help each other out. And the boys rolled into it, they were really turning up for one another.” said Mr Ingram.

Having faced off an incredibly aggressive side, with defenses holding up through discipline and teamwork, the Magpies are digging deep to go on the offensive.

“We kind of bite into some of that aggression, we want to be aggressive, but we want to control that. And that’s what I think we did for the first good 20 minutes, and

that we were really matching. We always talk to the boys about staying in the grind and completing our sets and building pressure, and we were really doing that. It’s usually about who is going to break first, and they broke first because we scored the first try.”

Looking ahead to Molong, Cowra’s season wide performance means a

comp win is still up for grabs.

“We’re there for a reason, they’re there for a reason. We all made the semis, it’s just a matter of who turns up on the day with the right attitude and who wants it the most, we’ve just got to get our gameplan right, we don’t want to lose at home,” Mr Ingram said.

“It’s still the same goal for us --

three games and we win the comp. There’s no tomorrow.” League Tag also performed strongly, but were unable to win against Cargo at 19-0 Youth League defeated Narromine 26-0, in what Mr Ingram described as their best performance this year. Cowra plays Molong at Sid Kallas oval this Sunday, August 17.