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Calarie’s champions

State award for volunteers who saved their hall

Calarie Hall was home to a lot of good memories for a lot of locals, now the volunteers who dedicated countless hours to restoring it for current and future generations have been celebrated.

The committee who manage the local recreation reserve has won the prestigious NSW Government Crown Land Management Excellence Award at the 2024 Community Achievement Awards of New South Wales and the ACT.

With hundreds of nominations, the team of local volunteers who have re-developed the Calarie Hall into a thriving community centre won the Award from a strong field of community contributors.

The winners were announced at a gala presentation dinner at Sydney Masonic Centre on Friday evening, with 200 guests gathered from across the State and The Hon Stephen Kamper MP, Minister for Minister for Lands and Property.

Calarie Hall Recreation Reserve chairperson Bill Holmes said the committee had no expectations of winning, with other shortlisted nominees doing amazing works in their own communities.

“We were over the moon when we made the shortlist to the semifinalists, and then we were ecstatic when we heard we made it to the top four as the finalists,” he said.

“We had no expectations of winning.”

Yet this group was certainly worthy: they’ve not only saved their hall but they’ve got it thriving.

“It was the community spirit and community involvement of all of us having some sort of childhood memory of being there and remembering our parents and how much work they put into it back in their day,” Mr Holmes said.

“It’s always been the Calarie Hall area, as long as anybody can remember.”

Mr Holmes remembers his Nan and Pop moving the hall there from Daroobalgie, celebrating his own 21st there, and family weddings.

It went out of community hands for a time, but about 2009 a group of passionate locals began the process of getting the hall back and classified as Crown Land Reserve.

“It was hard when we first took over, it was only a small commit-

tee,” Mr Holmes said.

He and his wife Brooke, Ange Male, Linda Merritt, Allan Pritchard, Timmy Bray, Cassie Merritt, Ann Nicholson and Michael Fischer were among those who rallied in those early days.

It was hard work and personal investment, but the community began to rally.

“It bonded the community back really because everyone was together, pitching in,” Mr Holmes said.

“They could see what we were doing and wanted to be involved - that’s pretty much how we got to where we are now.”

Now it’s a thriving venue for the local community but the region. Today, the committee is grow-

ing and Calarie Hall is once again a venue for weddings, birthdays, family reunions - not only for locals but for the region.

It proved its value as an evacuation centre when this time two years ago, it became home to people driven from their homes by the biggest floods Forbes had seen in decades - and unprecedented for areas of the central west.

The century-old building on the property has been completely reconstructed, now with heating and cooling as well as a covered deck and a brand new kitchen.

There are all new amenities on site, with the sprawling grounds welcoming for camping and events.

The award is well-deserved recognition of all this community-

minded crew - and they’ve still got more planned.

If you haven’t been there, you might like to join them for Christmas bingo on December 8, or follow Calarie Hall Recreational Reserve on Facebook to find out about future events because they’ve got Nathan ‘Whippy’ Griggs coming back to the region in 2025.

The Hon Stephen Kamper said it was a stellar achievement to be nominated, let alone a winner.

“All have shown they are astute managers who are passionate about caring for public land for the benefit of their communities –whether it is upgrading facilities, preserving heritage, or making reserves more inclusive and accessible for all,” he said.

Calarie Hall representatives Justin Scifleet, Tara Shaw, Bill and Brooke Holmes, Michael Fisher and Ann Nicholson with the Hon Stephen Kamper MP at the 2024 Community Achievement Awards of New South Wales and the ACT. PHOTO: Supplied

What’s on in and around Forbes

CINDERELLA AND THE CRYSTAL SLIP-

PER

October 25 - November 9

Parkes M and D is proud to present Cinderella and the Crystal Slipper. This production is a traditional Pantomime by Brian Luff a musical comedy and fun for the whole family. Tickets are now available at https://www. parkesmandd.com.au/box-office

EUGOWRA HOSPITAL AUXILIARY

CAKE STALL

Friday, November 8

Eugowra Hospital Auxiliary is holding their annual cake stall to raise funds for the MPS from 8:30am to 12pm. All your favourite baked goods, giant Christmas raffle, plants, and 100s club. Tickets are available over the next three weeks at Danny’s, The Fat Parcel and the Craft Shop.

EUGOWRA CATCHMENT LANDCARE

Saturday, November 9

At Pioneer Park in Eugowra from 4pm listen to ecologist Adam Kerezsy about the health of our catchment and the ecosystem it supports. Connect with others working to help the community and catchment thrive and learn how to transform our waterways and why it matters. BBQ available, please register for catering via humanitix.

ROTARY MARKETS

Saturday, November 9

The Rotary Club of Forbes Ipomoea Markets are moving to Grinsted Oval to run in conjunction with the 2024 BBQ Championships this year! From 11.30am this is going to add to the atmosphere of an all-round great day out.

NATIONAL BBQ CHAMPIONSHIPS

November 9 and 10

Become the 2024 National BBQ Champion. National and local teams will be competing for honours in grilling and smoking over two big days of championship action at South Cricle Oval. There will be a bar, live music, food trucks, major cash prizes, cooking demonstrations, celebrity chef and barbecue stalls - find out more in the full story on page 7 of this edition.

REMEMRANCE DAY

Monday, November 11

Forbes RSL Sub Branch invites community members to gather at the Cenotaph for a service to remember those who died or suffered in wars or conflicts from 10am. A Lone Pine will be planted followed by the Remembrance Day service. This day marks the anniversary of the Armistice which ended World War I (1914-18).

FORBES PRESCHOOL OPEN NIGHT

Tuesday, November 12

Forbes Preschool is opening the doors to the community from 5pm to 7pm on Tuesday. Come along and see the facilities,rooms and yards, meet the educators and learn about this wonderful local centre and all they do.

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH AGM

November 13

Everyone is invited to come along to the meeting at the Vandenberg Hotel from 6.30pm. Hear what’s happening in Neighbourhood Watch and what they do for the community, with the chance to be involved. NHW focuses on improving home security and safety, informing police and local service providers about safety risks, and reducing the fear of crime.

BILA GALARI TOUR

November 14 and 15

A 2-day tour following in the footsteps of our first Australians on a memorable expedition down the Lachlan River with the River Dreaming Aboriginal Corporation. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history and culture, and discovering the fascinating stories and traditions that have shaped this remarkable waterway. There is a limit of 10 participants per tour. For inquiries and bookings contact River Dreaming Aboriginal Corporation directly at enquiries@rdac.org.au

EUGOWRA CHRISTMAS SHOPPING NIGHT

Friday, November 15

Eugowra businesses will be open late and local markets and stall holders will be in attendance from 5pm to 8pm. For enquiries email hello@visiteugowra.com.au

LIONS MARKETS

Saturday, November 16

The final Lions markets for 2024 are on Saturday, November 16. They’re at Lions Park from 8am to 1pm (gates open early for stall holders). A site costs just $10, contact Peter Bright to book in 0419 463 803 or Forbes N District Lions on Facebook. Forbes and District Lions support our community.

BOGAN GATE SPRING MARKETS

Saturday, November 16

From 8am to 1pm in Bogan Gate Hall there will be a range of market stalls. You will be able to find handmade goodies, vintage finds, jewellery, plants, cake stalls, jams and chutneys, bric and brac, face painting, can-

dles, Devonshire teas and more. To book a stall call Shelley on 0428738172.

WHITE RIBBON DAY

Monday, November 25

Join the Forbes Domestic and Family Violence Committee for White Ribbon Day. a day to educate and raise awareness around the issue of men’s violence against women. At 9:30am assemble in Victoria Park for 10am march to Lions Park. Official opening will begin at 10:45am with attendees able to meet service at 11:15am. A gold coin donation BBQ will also be available. Everyone is welcome. FORBES COLOUR RUN

Wednesday, November 27

Join Club Aruma for the Forbes colour run from 9:30am to 2pm at the Forbes Rugby Union Oval. There is a $10 entry fee and bring a bank t-shirt, sunscreen, hat and water bottle. Make sure to register your interest before Wednesday, October 30 by contacting Amy Morgan on 0427720523 or amy.morgan@aruma.com.au

Local childcare educators honoured

THE joy of seeing children grow and learn is at the heart of a career in early childhood education for two awardwinning educators at Eugowra Community Children’s Centre.

Last weekend, Director Raewyn Molloy won the Samara Golding-Piper Memorial Award for Excellence in Leadership, and Terri Van Tempest the Molly Ticehurst Memorial Award for Outstanding Certificate III Early Childhood Educator at the Central West Early Childhood Awards.

Raewyn, who has been in the sector for some 20 years, says there’s no role more rewarding, and early years education is increasingly in the spotlight as our understanding of how much learning occurs in that time grows.

“This is the age they build the foundations, develop social skills, participate and learning through play base learning, make friends and develop independence-confidence,” she said.

“In the first five years a child’s brain is rapidly growing and 90 per cent developing.”

The industry is facing challenges, but those within the sector have a vital role in assisting children to develop and become confident indi-

viduals ready to under take the next stage of their education.

“There is nothing more rewarding than assisting a child to discover, learn, experiment and build relationships,” Raewyn said.

“Sharing of knowledge and guiding others over the years has been a very rewarding, seeing someone who is very shy grow into a confident individual.”

Raewyn began her journey in early education and care as a trainee, then progressed to complete her Diploma, teaching degree and then an Advanced Diploma in Leadership and Management.

“Over the years implementing a traineeship program has provided an opportunity for people to enter the Early Education and Care industry, with many trainees going on to do further qualifications. Traineeships provide an opportunity for trainees to develop their confidence, knowledge and skills in the Early Education Area,” she said.

Winning the Samara Golding-Piper Memorial Award for Excellence in Leadership was an honour.

ECCC was destroyed by the flood event of November 14, 2022, but today again has 17 staff and enrolments of 54

children. The team is looking forward to expanding once they’re in their new permanent premises.

“These have thrown many challenges and a new way of thinking outside the box as ECCC continues its journey to rebuild, supporting the local communities that access the service,” Raewyn said.

“Leadership is a journey, and you never stop learning,” she added.

“Supporting and guiding other is privilege that we can all strive for. It is a privilege to be able to care for, guide and educate children.”

Educator Terri Vane-Tempest won another very special award on the night: the

Molly Ticehurst Memorial Award for Outstanding Certificate III Early Childhood Educator.

Terri started her traineeship at ECCC two-and-a-half years ago and has never regretted it.

She’d had an interest in childcare but never pursued it until she saw the trainee-

ship advertised.

“I was very surprised to get an interview, even more surprised to get a phone call saying I had the job,” Terri said. Terri too works with four and five-year-olds as they prepare for big school and she loves it.

“The smiles on their faces,” she said when asked what makes it so enjoyable.

“I love sitting with them, building relationships with them, just have the silly conversations and have fun with them - play-based learning is a big part of my educating style.”

There’s a class of graduates preparing to make the move from ECCC to big school in the weeks ahead and while Terri knows that farewell will be a bit tough, she also knows they’re very ready.

“To see the growth from the start of the year to now, it’s amazing,” she said. “How much they’ve changed and grown and the knowledge they’ve picked up in that short amount of time ... they’re all going to go so well next year.”

The job? Terri wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it.

“It’s an amazing career to be in - I haven’t looked back, I’m glad I took that step and I wish I had made it sooner,” she said.

Wanita recognised for her dedication to vital service

By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK

WANITA Smith of Forbes Community Out of School Hours Care has been recognised for her dedication to care.

At the recent Central West Early Childhood Awards in Orange, Wanita was awarded Outstanding Out of School Hours Educator for 2024.

Wanita said winning the award was a big win not only for herself but as it also brought knowledge about out of school hours care.

“Everyone knows about long day care but not many people know about out of school hours care, so it was good to get people to realise that this service is in Forbes and there are many around the region as well,” Wanita said.

“It’s also good for the educators who work in out of school hours to be recognised for what they do because it is a challenge sometimes but it is a great job to have.”

Wanita is the Forbes Community OSHC Coordinator and runs after school care as well as vacation care.

“It’s for the primary school kids that need care in the afternoons while parents are still working,” she said.

“We’re a really good service in-between school and home for after school care, we have around 20 kids every day and more in vacation care during the school holidays.

“We provide these services to the community and we’ve been doing it for nearly nine years now so we’ve built up a

really good rapport with the community as well which is nice.”

Wanita’s favourite part of her job is spending time with the kids - and there is so much involved in the role.

Wanita (right) was awarded Outstanding Out of School Hours Educator for 2024 at the recent Central West Early Childhood Awards.

PHOTO: Supplied

“I love just spending time with them, they have so much of an innocence to talk about things and listening about their day and all the things they have done at school and then we help them with some of their

questions that they have,” she said.

“We do a lot of mental health work with our kids here, we have a couple of programs in place here for helping with their wellness,” Wanita added.

Wanita is passionate about out of school care being on the Board of Directors for Networks and Communities which is the peak body for out of school hours care in NSW.

“They do a lot of the advocacy between the services and the government and they provide professional development specifically for our sector of child care,” she said.

“I’m very passionate about OSHC and I speak up about it a lot and make sure it’s looked after.”

Wanita was on the Board of Directors last year and stepped down this year but is making a return to the board.

“It was a really good achievement for me because it was really good networking for knowing what’s happening in the industry and in the sector and we can get our voices heard about our services and what we do and how special we are.” Wanita was recently asked to join the Board of Directors again they need people who are vocal about the sector and Wanita is passionate about OSHC.

“I’d also like to thank Central West Early Childhood Awards for recognising all our educators, in all different areas of childcare,” Wanita added.

Eugowra Community Children’s Centre Director Raewyn Molloy was awarded the Samara Golding-Piper Memorial Award for Excellence in Leadership and Terri Van Tempest was awarded the Molly Ticehurst Memorial Award for Outstanding Certificate III Early Childhood Educator. PHOTOS: Supplied

Lone Pine for Victoria Park

Special planting to commence Remembrace Day commemorations

Forbes RSL Sub Branch invites community members to gather at the Cenotaph this Remembrance Day for a service to remember those who died or suffered in wars or conflicts.

During the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month we come together for a minute of silence.

Commemorations at Forbes will commence at 10am with the planting of a Lone Pine in Victoria Park, adjacent to the Cenotaph.

The seed is a direct descendant of a pine cone found by a digger at the Lone Pine battle site in 1915, sent home to his mother in memory of his brother who died in service.

The Australian War Memorial tells the story of this meaningful tree.

On 6 August 1915 the 1st Australian Infantry Division launched a major offensive at Plateau 400 on Gallipoli.

The ridges, once covered with the Aleppo pine, had been cleared to provide cover for the Turkish trenches, leaving just one, solitary pine.

The area became known as Lone Pine Ridge.

After three days of brutal fighting the ANZACs succeeded in capturing the enemy trenches, but with 2,000 Australians killed.

After the battle, Lance Corporal Benjamin Charles Smith, 3rd Battalion AIF, collected several pine cones from the branches used to cover the Turkish trenches. He sent the cones home to his mother, Jane McMullin, in remembrance of his brother Mark.

From one of these cones, several seeds were propagated and successfully raised as seedlings.

The Remembrance Day service conducted by Forbes RSL Sub Branch will follow the tree planting, commencing about 10:45am.

This service will include laying of wreaths at the Cenotaph, with senior students from Forbes High School and Red Bend Catholic College to read the names of the fallen who enlisted for service in our own community of Forbes.

The service will conclude with the observation of silence at 11am.

November 11 marks the anniversary of the Armistice which ended the First World War (191418).

Representatives of France,

Britain and Germany signed a document at 5am on November 11, 1918 that put an end to four years of conflict.

Six hours after the document was signed, at 11am, the signatures brought into effect the Armistice that ended WW1.

People rejoiced and celebrated the news across the world, including Australia with school, church and fire station bells ringing around the country despite the late hour of the day, waking hundreds to share the news that war was over.

Amidst the expressions of jubliation, the nation was grieving: more than 60,000 Australian soldiers had made the ultimate sacrifice.

Over 150,000 Australian soldiers were also wounded or taken prisoner and around 23,000 soldiers were missing.

Another six months passed before the treaty of Versailles was signed in June 1919 for exhausted troops to return home to their loved ones.

Despite retuning home, many never truly left the horror of the

Salvos to launch Christmas Toy Appeal

The Salvation Army Forbes and Parkes is again organising Christmas toys for families in need.

This year the Salvation Army will be partnering with Khub in Forbes again as they host the 37th ‘K-Mart Wishing Tree Appeal’.

Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of the Australian Community the Appeal has collected more than 14 million gifts since it began in 1987, with an average of 300,000 gifts donated annually.

Khub will launch their Christmas Toy Appeal on Tuesday, November 12.

Brand new toys and gifts – unwrapped – can be donated at Khub Forbes or at the Forbes and Parkes Family Stores.

Whilst there is a need across all age groups, the Salvos see a particularly strong need for gifts among tweens and teenagers.

Please consider buying a gift for all ages, including teenagers.

Christmas is the busiest time of the year for the Salvos.

This year they expect the need to be the most significant they have seen due to the increasing rise in cost-of-living expenses. Our role is to ensure everyone experiences a little cheer at Christmas, irrespective of their circumstances.

REGISTER FOR CHILDREN’S GIFTS

Families can register for gifts for children in their care at the Salvos Stores

• Forbes Family Store – 128 Rankin Street, between 9.30am and 3.30pm Tuesday to Friday • Parkes Family Store – 33 Church Street, between 10am and 2pm Tuesday to Thursday Application forms must be in by Friday, November 29.

Families will be contacted and given a day and time slot, in December, to come to the Family Stores to collect their gifts.

Thanks Khub, and the generous public of this area for your support again this year.

battlefields behind.

Remembrance Day services are a tradition still honoured today as we remember all who have served in the Australian Defence Force, in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations since.

On Remembrance Day you can expect to see red poppies being worn in remembrance.

If you can’t attend the service, there are other way to commemorate Remembrance Day: pause for a minute’s silence where you are or watch the service online.

Christmas Tree Festival

How are your entries coming along for the Rotary Ipomoea Christmas Tree Festival? This wonderful annual event is on again from Friday December 6 to Sunday December 8.

Contact 0439 708 456 to make an entry or ask questions.

This year’s event is raising funds for Havannah House, which provides crisis accommodation to women and children who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Gather at the Forbes Cenotaph on Monday, November 11 to honour Australia’s service men and women.

Special delivery for Eugowra SES

EUGOWRA’S State Emergency Service unit has taken delivery of a new rescue boat and storm trailer.

Volunteers were on hand to receive the keys to the Gemini inflatable rescue boat from NSW Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib, with Senator Jenny McAllister and Member for Orange Philip Donato.

Mr Donato said Eugowra’s new rescue boat would allow SES volunteers to undertake flood rescue: they are equipped with a range of life jackets, as well as reconnaissance and support tasks.

“SES volunteers make a valuable contribution to our local community and many across the region were busy working during the floods in 2022,” he said.

“These additional vehicles and vessels delivered across the local region will goa long way in helping prepare and respond to emergencies.

Colin Malone, Assistant Commissioner NSW SES, said the the boat had been co-designed with the or-

ganisation’s volunteers and selected for the type of conditions Eugowra has experienced in the past.

“It’s been many eyars of work going into developing these assets,” he said.

“There’s a lot of special features in this boat that have been codesigned by our volunteers, with our fleet team, and with the engineers at the boat companies.

“It’s been purposely built to handle the environment we’re standing in, to handle the type of flooding we may see in this area again and that has happened in the past.”

Mr Malone acknowledged the volunteers who will in coming weeks be training to use the boat.

“A lot of these people joined the unit off the back of the catastrophic flooding

that happened here,” he said

“So that crucible moment brought the community together ... and they’re still growing out of it today.

“Thank you to our amazing volunteers.”

Eugowra and Canowindra also received new ‘ark angel’, an inflatable rescue raft critical for quick and efficient flood response as they can be transported on top of an op-

erational vehicle.

All the new vehicles are equipped with ‘vehicle as a node’ technology, allowing crews to communicate using 4G and satellite networks in additional to regular radio networks, helping crews stay connected during emergencies.

Mr Dib said it was fantastic to hand over the boat - and other equipment - to the Eugowra unit to equip volun-

teers for the future.

“The bravery and selflessness over our SES volunteers over recent years has been remarkable, and during the last storm season alone they responded to almost 16,000 flood and storm incidents across the state,” he said.

In 2022 NSW SES volunteers logged more than one million hours and completed more than 3800 flood rescues, 67,000 animal rescues, 2800 resupply missions and 628 medical resupply missions.

Nearly 3000 new volunteers joined the ranks of the SES in the past year, and the service continues to encourage more people to join their local unit to further strengthen the state’s response to storms and floods.

“To our volunteers, thank you for all you do, thank you for giving up your time, for putting yourself in danger and making sure you protect the community: it takes a special kind of person to volunteer and an extra special person to volunteer within the emergency services,” Mr Dib said.

SES Commendation for Courage for young volunteer

EUGOWRA’S Macky Den has been honoured for his bravery during the flood disaster that hit his community on November 14, 2022.

The NSW State Emergency Service has presented the now SES Eugowra Unit member with the Commissioner’s Commendation for his actions to help others that day while NSW Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib and Senator Jenny McAllister, Minister for Emergency Management, were in Eugowra.

Mackay’s honour was one of a number awarded to the Eugowra unit and its members, volunteers and community members, with others presented at the NSW SES

Canobolas Cluster Awards Ceremony, in Orange in August.

The NSW SES acknowledged their responses that day as heroic in the face of catastrophic flooding.

In the early hours of Monday, November 14, 2022, the towns of Eugowra, Molong, Cudal and Canowindra were heavily affected by widespread rain over a short period.

The catchment areas flowing into the Molong Creek, Belubula River and Mandagery Creek overflowed, causing flash flooding to the towns and surrounding areas.

In Eugowra, NSW SES and inter-agency personnel responded quickly, with 12 helicopters in action over a six-hour period and

hundreds of flood rescues taking place.

More than 700 residents were evacuated, and 200 homes were severely impacted, as the SES carried out on the largest ongoing flood operations in its history in the central west.

PICTURED RIGHT: Eugowra’s Mackinley Den receives the NSW SES Commissioner’s Commendation for Courage from MP Philip Donato, Chief Inspector Craig Ronan, The Hon Jihad Dib, Senator The Hon Jenny McAllister, Assistant Commissioner Colin Malone and Unit Commander Anthony Robinson.

Eugowra SES controller Anthony Robinson with volunteers Hayden Patullo, Macky Den, Snow Jones, Shane McMillan.

Gardeners share knowledge

By ELVY QUIRK

ON Tuesday October 22 the last meeting for the year was held by the Forbes Garden Club at the home of Evelyn Mahlo.

President Margaret welcomed members.

Recently Ros Turner (who has been a member of our Garden Club) moved to her new surrounds down the Coast to be closer to her family. Her family offered some of her pot plants if they wished to pick them up. This was a very kind gesture indeed. Elvy has organised a card to be sent to her.

The afternoon came with a number of guest speakers and together with Evelyn Mahlo they gave some informative words.

Evelyn spoke on her garden and how she and her late husband Peter moved into their new home in 2007 and started planning their garden and with the help of the late Denis Irvine in some aspects it came together. The garden consists of many rooms and is picture

perfect with plantings of Buxus hedges etc

Recently Robyn Mattiske was part of a number of people who visited Norfolk Island and Robyn mentioned that a Garden Tour of the Island was a beautiful and varied trip.

She spoke on many of the plantings and in particular it was noted that many of the plants grown there are also grown in our climate.

A further speaker, Elvy, spoke on the recent Friendship Day at Young hosted by the Young Garden Club and held in the beautiful setting at Clifton Gardens.

Four of our members Therese Davis, Janette Thomas, Joyce Morrison and Elvy Quirk attended. Clifton Gardens is a beautiful hillside setting with many large trees and underplantings of many and varied plants including succulents, cactus, iris, some grasses etc.

A beautiful Wisteria adorns the building which provides accommodation for wedding guests etc.

The venue was suitably decorated, refreshing starters were served, a beautiful meal, so very well organised and a very friendly atmosphere. Congratulations must go to Helenie Carmody and her band of workers.

Our final speakers on the day were Michelle and David Mahlo. Michelle firstly spoke on how she and her husband David have started their own business named Daves Yard Care which provides

all aspects of garden maintenance from weeding to mowing etc David later spoke on the control of weeds such as Winter grass etc

We need fresh ideas for next year and Gail McKay spoke as to a visit to the Olive Farm at Bogan Gate with lunch perhaps at the Bogan Gate pub could be a lovely day out.

Our final get together for the year will be our Christmas luncheon which will be held at the Vandenberg Hotel on Tuesday November 26 commencing 12pm.

If you are wishing to attend the cost is $40 for a two course meal and you should have your money to Lloyd our Treasurer before or on 15th November. Numbers are necessary for catering purposes.

Flower of the month was won by Anne Reade with a beautiful Red rose, 2nd to Robyn Mattiske with a geranium and 3rd to Denise Thurston with a bearded Iris.

Raffle prizes went to Robin Lyell, Sylvia Glasson, Annette Thornton and Gail McKay. Happy gardening.

VIEW: Tea towels, trivia and a sausage sizzle

By SUE CUNNINGHAM

FORBES View Club cele-

brated the humble Tea Towel at its October 10 meeting.

All members and guests were asked to bring along their favourite tea towel for entry into one of the six competition categories.

The competition categories included Australiana, Animals, Botanical, International, Humorous and the prettiest.

Competition was fierce in all categories with tea towels not having seen the light of day since they were bought and buried at the bottom of kitchen drawers or at the back of the linen cupboards.

Indeed, many members commented on the number of tea towels they had, and this was evident in the number entered in each competition section.

Alison Lockhart took out the Grand Champion Tea Towel, while Ann Mackay won the most Humorous section.

Fun was had by all guests and sparked many conversations.

A successful Trivia Night was held on November 1. It was a night full of fun

and laughter and of course, lots of trivia.

Congratulations to the winning table and thank you all who attended and supported our fundraising efforts so we can continue to support disadvantaged children, especially during these difficult financial times.

A hot Saturday, November 2 saw View Club ladies serving up sizzling sausage sandwiches, cold drinks and selling tickets in a $250 Bunnings voucher raffle.

Thank you to all those wonderful and generous people who supported us.

The winner of the raffle was Michelle Mahlo, but all who supported us are winners as you are helping us to support disadvantaged children with their education.

At present Forbes View Club support nine students ranging from eight to 18.

Your donations will ensure that these students can take part in The Smith Family’s numeracy, literacy, tutoring, digital and mentoring programs to help them catch up and keep up at school.

There will be a garage sale on November 16 at 217 Farnell St starting at 8.30am.

Anyone with quality items they wish to donate are welcome to drop off at this address before the day. Quality clothing will be available.

View Club’s next meeting will be on November 14 at 12 noon at Club Forbes.

Guest speaker for this meeting will be Trudi Mallick with up to date information about the new Art Gallery being developed in the old ambulance station.

Ladies are asked to book with their designated contact person for this lunch by Thursday November 7.

The Sunshine Club’s Christmas raffles include a Christmas stocking bursting with gifts and a dinner setting for six.

Hi to all our Sunshine Club members.

A few weeks ago the Royal Far West was the lucky recipient of a $1500 donation from the Bushtrackers Caravan Owners Association to assist us with our fundraising.

On Wednesday, December 11, at 7pm the Royal Far west will be holding their Christmas bingo at Club Forbes.

We are currently selling raffle tickets for a Christmas stocking and a six-setting dinner set. These tickets are $1 each and only available at our Op Shop in Templar Street during opening hours of 9am to 3.30pm Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. This raffle will be drawn on December 11 at our bingo night.

We are currently accepting donations of clean crockery, clothes, furniture, linen and bric a brac.

Your deliveries are very welcome during our opening hours.

We are currently running a sale on ladies summer wear and our ladies evening wear is half price.

Men’s and children’s wear are at normal prices.

We have an extensive range of costume jewellery and giftware available.

Our Christmas decor is also available.

Our birthday book is open and best wishes go to Tommy of Forbes, Penton, Shanno, Bruce Almighty’s Clare.

Hope you all have a great day.

Hope everyone stays safe and well.

‘Til next time, Reenie

VIEW Club president Helen Hurley with Bunnings’ Darren Hill. PHOTOS: Supplied

Alison Lockhart with her winning tea towel and Ann Mackay with most humorous.

Evelyn Mahlo in her garden.

PHOTO: Supplied

Chefs fire up for weekend barbecue championships

By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK

THE National BBQ Championships are finally here and the big weekend promise to have something for everyone to enjoy.

At Grinsted Oval there will be a bar, live music, food trucks, major cash prizes, cooking demonstrations, barbecue stalls and of course the chance to get some hot tips from celebrity chef Mat Blak.

Mat is an international chef and will be judging the 2024 National BBQ Championships.

An award-winning chef, Mat has worked at high end restaurants in London, including for Gordon Ramsay and Jamie Oliver. Mat will be running cooking demonstrations, giving you the chance to learn from the very best in BBQ-ing.

If you’ve got a secret sauce or are the master of your own barbecue, you can nominate your team or even volunteer to be a judge - links online through the National BBQ Championships Forbes Facebook page or Forbes Shire Council.

Station 294 Forbes brigade NSW Fire and Rescue were our winning team in 2023 and member Mathew Teale told Deputy Mayor Chris Roylance it’s a day to put your best foot forward.

“Cook your best steaks, have your best marinade,” Mr Teale said.

“We are a competitive bunch and there’s nothing better at the end of the day you can take home the apron that says “National BBQ Champions”.”

The team donated their winning prize money to the children’s burns victims at the Children’s Hospital.

Cr Roylance encourages everyone to check out all of the action over the weekend.

There’s two big days.

On Saturday, November 9 grilling will take centre stage with the Australian Barbeque smoking event on Sunday.

Over the weekend there is a $20,000 prize pool up for grabs with prizes for the overall winner, category winners for chicken, pork, beef and lamb, prizes for the best team name, best dressed team, best dressed tent and prizes for runners-up.

Local and national teams are competing for the titles but even if you’re not part of the competition, it’s worth visiting.

There will live music from Katie Jayne and Cameron Sharp and kids entertainment from Elite jumping castles.

The Rotary Ipomoea markets are on Saturday, and there’ll be food vendors including pulled meats, ice cream and donuts.

If you’re inspired to expand your barbecue range, stall holders will have ingredients to get you started.

Northparkes Triple Flag Scholarships Triple Flag

Northparkes Operations recognise the importance of supporting students in order to give them the same opportunities for further education in comparison to their peers in metropolitan locations. Financial, geographical and other socio-economic barriers can impact students access and equity in relation to further educational opportunities and outcomes.

Our Triple Flag Scholarships:

assistance for community members from the Parkes and Forbes local government areas who are successfully enrolled in university, TAFE, VET or other nationally recognised training program.

Shortlisted applicants will be required to complete a phone interview with members from our Northparkes People & Culture Team and a Triple Flag representative, with scholarships awarded in January 2024.

How to apply:

To apply, students must complete a survey, please follow the below link, or scan the QR code: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/G9VWNR3

For further information, please reach out to the Northparkes People & Culture team on 02 6861 3311 or via the NPO.recruitment@evolutionmining.com mailbox

Applications close

Sunday, 24 November 2024

This week, from the mayor’s desk

By PHYLLIS MILLER OAM

It is finally here – the National BBQ Championships are on again!

What a great weekend of food, live music, markets and a healthy bit of competition.

We have more than 20 teams from Forbes and around Australia competing over the two days for the National BBQ title for grilling or to the win the Australian Barbecue Alliance’s Smoking competition – the winner of which will have the opportunity to represent Australia in the Jack Daniel World BBQ contest.

On Saturday, the event will be officially opened at 12.30pm with live cooking demonstrations by Guest Chef Mat Blak who has travelled from the UK to judge the event. On Saturday night there will be live music through the day with Cameron Sharpe and then Josie Laver and Kate Jayne (remember her from Sundown Sounds) playing into the night.

On Sunday, the Australian Barbecue Alliance will be training up local volunteer judges (you can enrol on our website) to be a part of tasting the cooking of some of Australia’s best smokers.

It is all happening at Grinsted Oval – there will be markets, entertainment for the kids and plenty of food trucks. Bring your hat, bring a chair or a picnic rug and come and support Australia’s BBQ best.

A date for the diary - Forbes Domestic and Family Violence Committee will be hosting the White Ribbon Day is on Monday 25 November at Lions Park.

The event includes a march from Victoria Park to Lions Park, guest speakers, information stalls and a community BBQ, all aimed at raising awareness about men’s violence against women. The march will start from Victoria Park at 10am. Businesses are being asked to stand out the front to show their support as well.

Food from the BBQ will be a $1 donation and proceeds will go to the White Ribbon Day Association.

Northparkes Sumitomo Scholarships Sumitomo

Our 2025 Sumitomo Scholarships:

Sumitomo Metal Mining Oceania Scholarship eligibility criteria:

How to apply: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/G9FQ6JK or via the Applications close Sunday, 24 November 2024

Celebrity chef Mat Blak is our BBQ Championships judge and will be running cooking demonstrations too. PHOTO: Supplied

Stories galore and more at Reading Day

Favourite stories and fun activities were all part of Forbes Birth to Kinder’s 2024 Reading Day.

Children gathered at Nelson Park to hear stories, dance, colour and craft and even hold the fire hose.

Forbes Birth to Kinder aims to raise awareness in the Forbes community about the importance of reading, talking, singing and listening to children right from birth to enhance the development of early literacy and this annual event is a really fun part of that.

Resilient Homes Program – Central West open for applications

Homeowners in Cabonne, Forbes, Parkes, Lachlan LGAs, as well as Euabalong in Cobar whose residential properties were impacted during the 2022 floods are now able to apply for the Resilient Homes Program.

Eligible Homeowners may receive support under three streams:

•Home Buybacks

•Resilient Measures (

•Home Assessments

NSW Reconstruction Authority will be hosting ommunity op-up to assist residents with applications and offer support for those who need it.

nsw.gov.au/ra/events 1800 844 085

Community is at the centre of the recovery effort in the Central West.

Dan from Chiropractic Life has a book! He shared Barry Bear the Chiropractor with children on Reading Day.

Amy Shine from Forbes Preschool reading to little visitors.

Lacey and Tilly from Forbes High School sharing dance and song with Tennyson, Eve, Zoe and Tom from Forbes Public.

Mathew Teale from Fire and Rescue NSW Forbes station with Peter Johanssan and Anthony Peters.

Forbes North students Matthew, Tanner, Patrick, Brax and Amelia all smiles checking out the fire engine.

Willow and Peyton making webs for a very busy spider!

Leo Rumble loved crafting his Gruffalo.

Marlee Gunn was all smiles glittering up her Gruffalo on reading day at Nelson Park.

Forbes North’s Mrs Milgate reading in the principal’s reading tent.

Jax from Forbes North was happy playing with playdoh at Birth to Kinder’s reading day.

Lawson from Forbes Public was happy to meet Vanessa the bearded dragon.

Forbes Shire Council rangers Matt and Jess introducing Vanessa the bearded dragon to Forbes Public student Charlie.

Check out those smiles! Olivia and her classmates from Forbes North loved learning about the fire engine and fire safety with Fire and Rescue NSW.

Picnic time for teddy bears and friends

Kerry Johansen with Ted and Jordy Shaw with Lola.

Sofia Kimber with Popcorn.

Tilly Slavin decorating a teddy bear.

Rosie Horan enjoyed the water play stall.

Harlin Biggs, Kiesha Edwards, Kenley O’Leary and Jayce Biggs.

Riley Prout holding Care Bear and Sophie Thompson holding Doggy. PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

Bella Lang with Tigger, Tamara Land and Dimity Dumbress with Mr Wrinkles.

Bingo, Winnie Scott and Rabbi and Bluey, these special guests were a big hit with the kids at the teddy bear’s picnic.

Addison and Hazel Howe drumming with Rob Shannon.

Dylan Vella, Elise Mitchell, Jaxon, Lisa and Josh Vella.

Bridie Ranger and Banjo Penney enjoying the teddy bear’s picnic with their very special furry friends.

Christian, Charlie and Elijah Ellery with their mum Jess Macdonald. PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

Little ones and their teddy bears gathered at Lions Park on Saturday for all the fun of the annual Forbes Shire Council Teddy Bear’s Picnic. It was a fun morning of music, dancing and family fun, with children delighted to welcome special guests Bingo and Bluey.

Town sparkles for Taste on Templar

The town was all a-sparkle Saturday night for the much-anticipated Taste on Templar 2024.

The Forbes Business Chamber event, which pours funds back into community causes, was a night to remember as people from around the region gathered at the long tables to catch up ahead of the festive season.

Catering by Eat Your Greens was once again delicious, the Happy Daze mobile bar was a great new feature and Gabe Music took the party into the evening in spectacular style.

A big thank you to the volunteer committee who make it all happen every year - a big effort but a most wonderful event!

The Forbes Hospital maternity and theatre crew having a wonderful night at the terrific

Emma Brown, Eleanor West and Felicity Brown.

Tianne Crossley, Georgia Sideris, Iesha Sinclair and Jodi Williams.

Lara Harris and Jack Beath.

Amedlia Holz of Bathurst, Charlotte and Rachel Trounson, Bathurst, Alex Byrne, Gunningbland and William Trounson of Bathurst. PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

Bridie Hughes and Tilly Donovan.

Rose De Jong gave the Welcome to Country.

Marg Duggan from the Forbes Business Chamber welcomed everyone to Taste on Templar.

The Parkes-Forbes Service NSW team came to Taste on Templar for their Christmas Party.

Bri Celledoni and Caitlin Haase.

Scott Mitchell, Susan Mill and Liz Mitchell.

Grant McMillan, Janet Churchill, Tara Heir and Alex McMillan.

Jake Candrick, Atem Makuach and Chris Palmer of Sydney.

Jennifer and Bernard Horan.

Taste on Templar 2024 on Saturday night.

PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

CENTRAL WEST AND HILLTOPS

VIRTUAL FENCING ON NSW AGENDA

Central west feedlot west leading the industry the

By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK

GUNDAMAIN Pastoral Co has again been recognised on a national level being awarded 2024 Australian Feedlot of the Year (3000-8000 head).

Gundamain is located 4km out of Eugowra and has a multitude of enterprises including a cattle feedlot, sheep including first cross and Merino Ewes and prime lambs, a cropping enterprise where barley, wheat and canola is grown, hay production and an Angus breeding herd.

It’s not the first time the family operation has been recognised at these awards, but it’s certainly an honour.

“It’s very exciting, but we weren’t expecting it this year,” Caitlin Herbert said. “We were in the finals against another really good brand new feedlot and we’ve been here for about 25 years now so we were really surprised and happy with the outcome.”

Finalists for the awards are based on scores from the National Feedlot Insurance Scheme.

Feedlots are audited annually on everything they do, assessing animal welfare, staff retention, environmental stewardship and sustainability.

“They come out and assess us on those things every year which we quite like,” Caitlin said.

“It ensures the strength and continuation of the industry and it keeps you accountable to do the best job you can do.”

Judges then go out to feedlots who make the finals.

“The judges come out and visit and they ask you a multitude of questions on quality assurance, culture, product integrity, environmental responsibility, business planning and animal welfare responsibility and then they go for a drive around the feedlot and assess the facilities,” Caitlin said.

Gundamain are self sufficient in hay and silage for their feedlot.

“It is quite vertically integrated, all the cattle we breed come all the way through with us and we buy cattle locally from Forbes, Carcoar, Mudgee and Wagga,” Caitlin said.

“We’ve been providing from two markets, one for 15 years and and the other for 12, so we’ve been with our suppliers long term too.”

Gundamain has been in the Herbert family for 150 years, celebrating their sesquicentenary last year.

“It’s very special but it’s also a lot of responsibility too and really big shoes to fill from the past,” Caitlin said.

Caitlin is the first daughter to come back to the family farm and has now been there for five years with her husband Edward Thomas.

“We couldn’t picture being anywhere else,” Caitlin added.

Caitlin herself has completed a Nuffield scholarship in international drough practice in feedlots, that story page 4.

Caitlin Herbert and (inset) with Andrew and Tess Herbert at the Gundamain feedlot.

PHOTO: Supplied

New job opportunities with Apollo

LOCAL business Apollo Fabrication Group is strengthening its position as one of Australia’s leading structural steel specialists, supporting new job and career opportunities in the region.

The increasing demand for Apollo’s experience and expertise in delivering large-scale and complex steel structures has led the company to diversify into design consultancy and project management, in addition to its steel fabrication and installation services.

The highly regarded team is currently completing projects at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra and Australian Opal Centre at Lightening Ridge and will soon turn their focus to commencing another major commercial facility and a move

into transport infrastructure.

Apollo CEO Caleb Jackson said the business’ growth and diversification is opening opportunities for people to build their careers in Young, and the region to attract talent.

“We are actively recruiting for a number of corporate services roles, draftspersons, project managers, and site supervisors as well as launching a new round of our apprenticeship program,” Mr Jackson said.

“This is a perfect time for school leavers looking to enter a trade to consider a career in the dynamic steel industry.

“An apprenticeship with Apollo provides young people with career pathways in a range of sought-after trades.

“It also strengthens the local economy by building skillsets

RECRUITING NOW

and retaining those skills in our region.”

Apollo’s Training Opportunities Program equips school leavers and adults with no qualifications to complete Level 3 and 4 trade certifications through to diplomas, with the opportunity to go on to becoming a project manager or supervisor in the future.

These opportunities come at a time when the company is also looking at expanding its steel fabrication business in Young and opening other offices in metropolitan locations across the Eastern Seaboard.

“Currently on public

exhibition, the proposed rezoning of our land on Telegraph Road and staged expansion of the Young facility will help lay the foundation for our future growth,” Mr Jackson said.

For information on training and career opportunities at Apollo, visit the company’s website: www.apollofabrication.com.au

About Apollo Fabrication Group

FOUNDED in 2000, Apollo Fabrication Group is a family owned and operated business which started as a manufacturer of specialist waste management equipment.

Today, it is one of Australia’s leading names in structural and architectural steelwork, delivering bespoke building solutions across the education, health, industrial, residential, and defence sectors.

Based in Young, NSW, Apollo is dedicated to innovation, sustainability, and supporting the local community through job creation and economic development.

Apollo is seeking enthusiastic persons to join our expanding team.

From trades and site supervisors to draftspersons, project managers and corporate service roles.

Join the team shaping Australia’s steel construction industry right here in Young. Register your interest

Apollo has invested in a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant where we design, manufacture, coat, store and deliver our steel structures. Apollo is committed to continuously improving the sustainability of its products, as well as its processes.

Apollo Fabrication are looking for locals to join their team.

Finishing lambs? The benefits of BioPro

By AUSTRALIAN PROBIOTIC SOLUTIONS

AUSTRALIAN Probiotic Solutions

offers a natural and effective solution for animal nutrition through the use of probiotics.

The formula has been developed with leading microbiologists, industry vets, and nutritionists, and has been proven effective since 2004 in Australia.

BioPro products and benefits:

Home processing of grains and mixing

Our high strength product (BPH100HS) fed at 4 g/lamb/day for a cost of 3.5 cents or $2.09 per 60 day feeding period. This is added on top of the existing feeding program, assuming that you are mixing grain yourself and feeding through a mixing wagon or through self-feeders.

Two per cent inclusion, loose or pelleted additives

Our complete macro/micro pellet (or loose mix) with the probiotics included – which is equivalent to the two per cent inclusion products that you are probably familiar with (i.e. 1 bag per tonne etc).

This product will cost you 5 cents per lamb per day for a 20 g pellet, or 3.75 cents per lamb per day for a 15 g loose mix. All up this will be $3 per lamb for the pelletised product or $2.25 per lamb for the loose mix, working on the 60-day feeding period.

Stockfeed mill Inclusions

If you are buying ‘lamb finishing’ pellets from a stockfeed mill we recommend a different product with coated yeast (our Rumicell product) to withstand high manufacturing temperatures. The cost of this product is also about 3 cents per lamb per day,

which works out to $1.98 per lamb for the feeding period.

What’s in BioPro?

BioPro is unique in that it contains a combination of five different lactic acid bacteria (four of which are microencapsulated for safe delivery to the lower gut where they are activated by enzymes and go to work), an active live yeast (a specific strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae), and five digestive enzymes.

Most other products contain either yeast or bacteria only, and at significantly lower doses (measured in colony forming units per gram – ours is 26.3 billion cfu’s per gram or 5.25 billion cfu’s per lamb dose).

Key benefits of feeding BioPro are

1. Quicker turn-off of stock

2. Saving in protein cost per head

3. Reduced mortalities

4. Natural alternative to antibiotic Quicker turn-off

Let’s say that you want to take a lamb from 30 kg to 50 kg as quickly as possible. Based on energy, protein, and fibre, this can be achieved in about 60 days with a good composite lamb.

To reach this, lambs need to grow at 333 g/head/day, requiring everything to go smoothly. To achieve a faster turn-off, better feed conversion efficiency is essential, and that’s where the probiotics come in.

Our probiotics contain five specific types of bacteria (only one – Bacillus subtilis - has a role in the rumen and the rest in the lower gut), each with their own important role in digestion or immune boost response.

In addition, there is an active live yeast that promotes improved fibre digestion (through feeding and therefore promotion of various

bacteria, fungi and protozoa that increase microbial protein growth) and stabilises rumen pH. When the digestive enzymes (protease, amylase, cellulase, lipase, and pectinase) are added as well, maximum availability of the feed nutrients are achieved through their powerful hydrolyzing effect (turning feed components into a more usable form).

Together, this all means that more of the ‘potentially’ digestible components of the diet are digested (allowing for greater feed intake because the food is more completely digested in a shorter time and so the animal can fit more in), leading to improved liveweight gains – assuming that the diet is correctly balanced.

To cover the costs mentioned above, the lambs would only have to finish two to three days quicker.

In practice, this may look like heavier lambs at the end of the feedlot period if you are not weighing them regularly enough to know that they will achieve their target liveweight faster.

Saving in protein cost

When you feed a lamb, you are feeding a vast number of microbes in the rumen. These include bacteria, fungi, and protozoa primarily and their job is to digest feed sources that the lamb itself can’t utilise. They ferment the forages and grains

to energy sources called volatile fatty acids and protein sources to ammonia which they use to grow and multiply. With BioPro, beneficial microbe numbers are increased in both the rumen and the lower gut.

After extensive and ongoing manure testing of new customer herds (most of our testing has happened in cattle) and flocks, we have evidence to show how big the crude protein benefit of feeding a BioPro product is.

It is likely that the range will be between 20-25 g/cow/day of crude protein that can be attributed to our probiotics.

Why? Because 70 per cent of the lamb’s protein source is the microbes themselves, either from the rumen (stimulated by the yeast and the Bacillus) or coming out of the intestines (the Bacillus and other protected bacteria).

Whatever we do to grow more microbes will obviously effect the microbial crude protein pool, and then ultimately the amount of metabolizable protein available to the lamb. If protein supplements are not adjusted accordingly, this can result in increased protein content in the manure, representing wasted opportunity. We often advise customers to reduce protein supplements by an amount equivalent to the cost of BioPro, making it cost-

neutral while still enjoying greater efficiency.

Reduced mortality

Reduced mortality is one of the most noticeable paybacks we hear from long-term customers. This is driven by the Bacillus, as well as the rumen-protected bacteria included in BioPro, that go to work crowding out pathogens (the bad bugs) in the intestines and stimulating the immune system through secretion of bacteriocins.

When this BioPro bacterial work is combined with a good induction program (including drenching and vaccinating) and a better-balanced rumen (higher rumen pH etc..), it is not hard to understand how lower mortality rates could be achieved. If we assume that a 50 kg finished lamb is worth $200, then you only have to save approximately one extra lamb for every 100 lambs on feed, to start profiting from a ‘reduced mortality’ perspective.

Natural alternative to antibiotics

Our products are a natural alternative to antibiotics, which are no longer accepted by many processors like ALC, TFI, and JBS. We are essentially ‘supercharging’ the digestive system with the bugs and enzymes that we believe deliver the best outcomes in terms of digestive health and efficiency, as well as overall animal health.

Results and further research

We have many current customers who can confirm seeing these benefits, but we also have several on-farm demonstrations underway right now that we can report on in future. The first two are achieved by improving digestive efficiency, and the third by enhancing the immune response.

Feeding to fatten

Come

to

Study to inform our drought practice

By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK

DELIVERING consistently good cattle through dry times has been the focus of a year of international study for Eugowra’s Caitlin Herbert.

Caitlin, Gundamain Pastoral Co, was awarded the 2024 Nuffield Drought Resilience Scholarship to complete a year of international travel and write a paper.

“Historically our drought conditions in Australia force an intensification of our external beef industry, so I was looking into how feed lotting can work with the wider beef supply chain to maintain consistent cattle turn off despite variations in seasonal conditions,” Caitlin said.

“For example in drier years when destocking occurs, using feedlots to ensure we can continue to service beef

demand while grazing is limited.”

This interest stemmed from the 2018-2020 drought and Gundamain’s experiences in turn over in feedlot cattle and using the feedlot to fill the gap while beef supply was shortened.

“With Nuffield it’s given me an opportunity to take time away from our business specifically and explore operations similar to ours on a global scale with the same struggles as us and bringing back best practices, ideas and technologies both to our business and the wider agricultural community,” Caitlin said.

Highlights included, Brazil and Argentina in South America, Canada and the United States.

“Brazil has the second highest cattle population in the world and the highest

beef turn off,” she said.

“They export a lot to China and it was really interesting to see the scale of production in Brazil.”

Caitlin then went to Argentina as she said the model is quite similar to Australia, although they turn off their beef a lot quicker.

“Canada is very similar to Australia but they are dealing with huge weather

variability,” she said.

“Their temperatures in their feed yards were ranging from -50 degrees Celsius all the way to over 40. They generally have to feed their cattle all year round because they can’t leave them out on grass due to the weather.”

In the United States Caitlin visited Texas, Kansas, Nebraska and Colorado.

“The US is just coming out of a drought and Australia’s been exporting so much beef over there so it was really interesting,” she said.

“They have done a lot of work in heat mitigation. For example they have storm and heat stress rations where they adjust what the cattle are eating energy wise depending on what the weather was doing.

“They also have a lot of investment into research on feedlots, which is really different to Australia.”

The experience will benefit Gundamain and the wider Australian feed lotting and cattle industry.

“It helps us so we are better prepared for the next drought that hopefully won’t hit us but inevitably will,” she said.

State takes steps toward virtual fencing legislation

BRINGING stock virtual fencing to Parliament for debate is a key recommendation of the Committee on Investment, Industry and Regional Development.

The committee was tasked with reviewing the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Amendment (Virtual Stock Fencing) Bill 2024 (‘the bill’), to understand the proposed changes and implications of legalising the technology.

Now the State has taken one step closer to letting farmers virtually fence their livestock, with the committee recommending Parliament proceed to debate the bill, considering the evidence from the inquiry.

Member for Orange Philip Donato introduced the Bill to the Legislative Assembly in earlier this year.

“Virtual fencing is an innovative system that enables livestock

farmers to create virtual boundaries without the need for physical internal property fencing,” he told Parliament in February.

“Virtual fencing is invisible and somewhat intangible.

“The virtual boundary is created on a computer program using GPS technology for the purpose of confining stock animals to a predetermined area without using traditional fixed fencing.

“Stock animals are fitted with a neck collar that is powered by a solar-chargeable battery.

“When the stock animal approaches the pre-determined boundary, the collar emits an audible cue, followed by a safe electrical stimulus to deter the animal from the virtual fence line.

“The energy of the stimulus delivered by the collar is less than that of a standard electric fence.”

The benefits are manifold, Mr Donato told Parliament, and particularly important after the floods and fires of the past few years.

“Traditional fencing is not only costly to install and maintain but also limits the flexibility of grazing areas,” he said.

“With virtual fencing, farmers can adjust internal boundaries and move their livestock with ease, reducing labour and time requirements.

“This not only makes their operations more cost effective but also allows them to focus on other critical

aspects of their business.”

Committee chair Roy Butler MP said legalising the technology would bring New South Wales into line with other Australian and overseas jurisdictions that permit the commercial use of virtual stock fencing.

The committee heard from stakeholders including technology producers, animal welfare advocates, farmers, local councils, academics and members of the public.

The report considered the impact of virtual stock fencing on animals and recommended that the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development develop a mandatory code of practice to protect animal welfare.

“We believe that a mandatory code of practice will ensure safeguards are put in place and that technology producers are kept to high standards,” Mr Butler said.

Caitlin Herbert was one of five drought resilience scholars from around Australia.

PHOTO: Supplied

Stock animals are fitted with a neck collar that is powered by a solarchargeable battery.

PHOTO: Courtesy Philip Donato MP

CENTRAL WEST AND HILLTOPS

HARVEST Feature

Celebrating excellence in wheat production as judges tour State

SOUTHERN region growers are being urged to enter this year’s prestigious AgShows NSW Suncorp Bank Championship Dryland Field Wheat and Durum Competition.

This highly anticipated annual competition celebrates excellence in wheat production and provides an opportunity for growers to be recognised for their hard work in overcoming challenging conditions.

Stephen Hatty, Chair of the AgShows Wheat Advisory Committee, says the competition sees every kind of seasonal condition and challenge and through them all provides valuable opportunity to growers.

It is a chance to gain insights into best practices and innovations in wheat farming that can help improve productivity and sustainability across the sector.

Judging started up north and is progressing through the State, with judges in western NSW in October and central NSW in the first week of November.

“Up north we’ve been getting some pretty big results, some very good yields, very

nice crops up there,” Mr Hatty said.

“The western region - the Peak Hill and Hillston area we visited last week - they’re pretty nice crops.

“Further south here where I am near Ganmain we’ve seen a fair bit of frost damage but there’s an odd crop that has escaped without too much damage.”

Until those frosts, the season had been a pretty good one for the region.

“We certainly see a lot of seasonal conditions within the competition every year and because it is state-wide you pick up most events, good and bad, across the State you’ll find it,” Mr Hatty said.

He encourages growers to get involved - especially at a local level.

“I think the good thing about it is the networking and just seeing how your peers are going,” he said.

“Going on to a bigger level is all good too but I see the local level as much advantage as the state competition.

“Some of the competitions do a bus tour for the day when they’re judging their crops, it’s a good chance for

people to get out and about before harvest - and sometimes when you’ve had a bit of a hit in a year like this, then it’s a good chance to get out and talk about it.”

With frosts and dry weather across NSW throughout September, private forecasts predict Australia’s national wheat crop may fall below 30 million tonnes - well short of the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences’ (ABARES) September forecast of 31.8 million tonnes.

“While we may see a lower

national wheat crop this year, the competition remains an excellent opportunity for growers to demonstrate the effectiveness of their management practices under difficult conditions,” Mr Hatty said.

“Every year, we are impressed by the level of skill and innovation NSW growers bring to the table.”

September 20 is the deadline for entries from the Southern region which includes Albury, Ariah Park, Bribbaree, Boorowa, Coolamon, Cootamundra, Culcairn, Harden, Henty, Hol-

brook, Howlong, Illabo, Junee, Puccawan, Temora, The Rock, Wagga Wagga, Walbundrie, Wallendbeen, and Young.

To enter the competition, growers should contact their local competition coordinator.

A full list of local coordinators can be found on the AgShows NSW website - https://www.agshowsnsw. org.au/competitions/wheatcompetition - along with entry forms and judging criteria.

The state winner will be

revealed at the Wheat Presentation Dinner in Dubbo on January 12, 2025.

Judges have toured the top five western region results out of local crop competitions, which covers Ardlethan, Bogan Gate, Barellan, Barmedman, Beckom, Berrigan, Burcher, Condobolin, Caragabal, Corowa, Deniliquin, Finley, Ganmain, Griffith, Hillston, Lake Cargelligo, Leeton, Lockhart, Merriwagga, Narrandera, Oaklands, Peak Hill, Rand, Rankin Springs, Trundle, Tullamore, Tocumwal, Top Woodlands, West Wyalong, Weethalle, Ungarie, Urana.

This week they are judging central region crops, which includes Alectown, Binnaway, Canowindra, Carcoar, Coolah, Coonabarabran, Cowra, Cudal, Cumnock, Dubbo, Dunedoo, Eugowra, Forbes, Grenfell, Gulgong, Gunnedah, Manildra, Mendooran, Merriwa, Molong, Parkes, Premer, Quandialla, Quirindi, Spring Ridge, Tambar Springs, Tamworth, Wellington, Werris Creek, Wirrinya, Woodstock, and Yeoval.

A good crop starts with your sowing fertiliser

CREATING the ideal environment to sow a summer crop starts with good tilthy soil, good moisture, and a fertiliser that feeds and encourages beneficial microbiology to supply nutrients in a balanced form to the growing crop.

As farmers prepare to make a significant investment in down the tube fertiliser to sow summer crops they need to consider a fertiliser such as YLAD Multi-Species Grow, that is designed to promote and support beneficial soil microorganisms creating good soil structure that supports root growth and reduces erosion in both crops and soil quality over time.

YLAD Multi-Species Grow also encourages the growth of microbes that produce organic compounds, which help form soil aggregates, improving soil structure, aeration and water retention.

For the past 20 years, Rhonda has demonstrated

the capacity of healthy soils, filled with biology, to provide plants the vast majority of their nutritional needs. “Affordable investments like YLAD Multi-Species Grow will grow your below-ground biological herd.

This soil community will do a much more cost-effective job at getting the right nutrients to your plants at the right time,” which is not always the case with conventional fertilisers.

“Many farmers are still sowing multi-species crops with MAP or single super,” observes Rhonda, “which unfortunately means they are not getting the full benefits of microbial exudates and nutrient cycling offered by growing multiple species crops”.

To support farmers sowing multi-species crops, YLAD Living Soils has developed YLAD Multi-Species Grow. Designed specially to provide specific nutrition, as well as allowing for nitrogen fixa-

tion, it has proven a success in facilitating the necessary uptake of nutrients, trace minerals and microbial food supply for the multi-species

crops.

Production from paddocks where YLAD Multi-Species Grow has been used have shown a 49 per cent yield

in prime lambs and Angus Steers gaining up to 2.5 kgs per day.

A reduction in harmful pathogens is associated with this YLAD M fertiliser due to it supporting beneficial organisms such as mycorrhizal fungi and biocontrol bacteria.

Multi-Species Grow is easy and safe to work with. This granular fertiliser is applied down the tube with sowing, at an application rate of 66 kg/ha. Compared with other typical MAP fertilisers, not only is Multi-Species Grow an easy substitute using the same equipment, but it is also much more affordable and non-toxic to farmers and soil.

Multi-Species Grow offers a helpful amount of buffered nitrogen, meaning traditional nitrogen fertilisers are less necessary, while microbes in in the soil build back their ability to fix nitrogen naturally. As such, farmers who have applied Multi-

Species Grow have reported increased root nodulation, mass, and depth.

Farmers have also observed more life in their soil, improved quality and nutrient density in their livestock forage, and increased health in their following round of crops.

All of these outcomes mean a decreased likelihood of disease and pest problems for crops and herds.

Science is even demonstrating how having more diverse plants on your farm means that your landscape releases more bacteria and terpenes during transpiration, which not only cools your landscape, but also improves rain nucleation in your precipitation shed.

To learn more about using Multi-Species Grow to gain greater productivity and profitability call: Rhonda Daly on 1 300 811 681 or email info@yladlivingsoils. com.au

Barry Unger, Ben Graystone, Greg Diener and Frank McRae in a central district finalist crop at Peak Hill.

PHOTO: AgShows NSW

David Bushell and Bill Daly, YLAD Living Soils. PHOTO: Supplied

Weather bites but national crop still forecast to be ‘marginally larger’

By RABOBANK

AUSTRALIA is looking towards harvesting a “marginally larger” winter crop this season, despite significant weather challenges experienced in a number of key grain-growing regions throughout the year, Rabobank says in its 2024/25 Australian Winter Crop Forecast.

The agribusiness banking specialist says the nation is on track to produce an estimated total winter crop of 47.1 million tonnes, up one per cent (0.5 million tonnes) on the previous season, but down 13 per cent on the fiveyear average.

Report author, RaboResearch analyst Vitor Pistoia, said the projected “small uptick” in total crop production in 2024/25 was “poised to come mainly from wheat” and, to a smaller extent, pulses and oats.

“While the wheat harvest is expected to be an improvement on last year, canola and barley production look set to be down year-on-year due to the combination of low rainfall and late frost which struck many crops at a critical period,” he said.

Mr Pistoia said this winter cropping season had been a “mixed bag”, characterised by patchy rainfall, a warm winter and late frosts.

“This season’s start was variable across the country,” he said.

“While Queensland, the majority of New South Wales and one particular region in Western Australia (around Corrigin in the Central Wheatbelt) got going early on, large swathes of WA, Victoria and South Australia had to wait until early June to see seed germination,” he said.

“Similarly, rainfall through the growing season was patchy and this was coupled with a widespread warmer winter.

“Higher winter temperatures – of up to two degrees Celsius above average depending on the region –boosted water evaporation at the same time it prompted faster crop development.”

LATE FROST: Then, in mid-September, Mr Pistoia said, the south-eastern part of Australia’s cropping belt – including in some areas of South Australia – had been struck by consecutive nights of late frost.

“This cold snap damaged crops to differing degrees and prompted many farmers to cut them for hay, especially in the regions already affected by low rainfall volumes, such as Victoria and South Australia,” he said.

New South Wales is projected to have 14.6 million tonnes of total winter crops heading to its harvest bins this season.

Mr Pistoia said growing conditions for winter crops had been good in the state until mid-September, except for in southern regions such as Albury. However, the mid-September frost events had impacted crops, particularly around areas including Forbes, Grenfell and Griffith.

PRICE OUTLOOK: Once harvested, Australia’s grains and oilseeds look set to trade in a relatively range-bound market when it comes to prices, the report says, with the exception of canola, where “market fundamentals” support an outlook for higher prices.

“The worldwide grain and oilseeds outlook has changed in recent months from a potential glut to a patchier stocks picture,” Mr Pistoia said.

“An uncertain outlook for Black Sea wheat production due to dry weather is supporting wheat prices, although this is being buffered by notable increases in US wheat and corn stocks.”

Compared with the past 20 years, the 2024/25 projected global stocks-to-use ratios of wheat and corn are “virtually at their median point”, the report says, while soybeans and rice are above it.

“This reinforces the relative ‘comfort zone’ the global market sees itself in,” Mr Pistoia said.

“There are though some outlier crops in this picture within the oilseeds complex. Globally, stocks of sunflower and canola are projected to be tight due to weather problems and also geopolitical issues weighing on production.”

For wheat, the bank forecasts APW (Australian Premium White) port prices to range between AUD 320 and AUD 360/tonne by the end of 2024 until half way through the first half of 2025.

For barley, lower global stocks of the malting variety are supporting prices for some regions, although not

KEEP HARVEST FLOWING WITH AGI WESTFIELD AND BEULAH MACHINERY COWRA

RELIABLE equipment and dealer service will be crucial in keeping harvest flowing throughout the region over the next few months.

Beulah Machinery in Cowra has geared up to keep the season running smoothly by backing farmers with outstanding AGI Westfield auger deals, service, support and the all-important spare parts required.

Beulah Machinery Workshop Manager and AGI Westfield specialist, Mick Schaefer, explained farmers can’t go wrong with trusted international brands like AGI Westfield backed by solid local businesses like Beulah.

“AGI Westfield has been a trusted name in the Australian agricultural community for many years,” Mick outlined.

“Established in Manitoba, Canada, AGI and their brand AGI Westfield, have produced grain augers since 1951.

“They understand farmers want affordable, simple, straightforward designs for labour saving performance and dependability.

“AGI has become the leading grain auger manufacturer in the world due to their commitment to design and innovation.

“For filling the largest silos as quickly as possible, you can’t beat the quality of AGI Westfield swingaway augers.

“Built strong and designed to last, these augers come in 10”, 13” and 16” with precisionengineered auger flighting and commercial strength frame/ trussing.”

Beulah also supplies the AGI Westfield conventional auger range, the proven workhorse of every operation. Made for durability, longevity, and capacity, the STX2 delivers on all accounts and will move grain fast.

“The AGI Westfield STX2 selflevelling motor with redesigned guards is mounted to the frame, maintaining proper tension at all heights,” Mick explained.

“This saves the operator from having to reset the belt tension once the auger is raised into position to provide better traction.”

Supported by an RHS heavy duty undercarriage, the barrel sizes come in 8” and 10” and range in length from 31’ to 61’.

They are designed with ease of use in mind.

“The self-propelled kit also automatically adjusts the intake height when auger discharge is raised or lowered,” Mick said.

“These practical features, along with the lengthy list of standard inclusion, are the key reasons we stock these outstanding augers.”

Beulah Machinery Pty Ltd began in Cowra NSW in 1996 as a farm-based agricultural equipment distributor and dealer.

“At Beulah, we use what we sell and we back what we sell with first class customer service, spare parts and support,” Mick said.

“We have an extensive range of AGI Westfield auger and conveyor parts for your seasonal maintenance and repair.

for Australia, Mr Pistoia said.

“Despite the lower stocks, global demand for malting barley is also soft and in addition Australia’s distance from key markets puts us at a disadvantage,” he said.

“However, the re-opening of the Chinese market to Australian barley producers is supporting the Australian barley demand outlook.

Following the removal of Chinese tariffs on Australian barley, China regained its position as the number one destination for Australia’s barley exports in 2023/24.”

Based on current barley market fundamentals, the report has port zone feed barley forecast to trade in the AUD 290 to AUD 320/tonne range.

“For malting barley, the outlook is to have minimal, if any, discount compared with APW wheat,” he said.

For cereal hay, assuming a slight increase in cattle and sheep prices and that feedlots maintain high numbers of cattle on feed during 2025, the bank is forecasting prices to likely range between AUD 350 and AUD 400/tonne. Although this may be adjusted by summer rainfall and the La Nina outlook, Mr Pistoia said.

For canola, the Rabobank report says, a combination of global geopolitics, bad weather and high farming costs has tempered harvest sizes.

“A wet summer in the EU and a hot dry one in the Black Sea region has exacerbated a supply shortfall of canola,” Mr Pistoia said.

“In addition, the continuing solid demand for vegetable oil is sustaining canola demand, while the EU tariffs on Russian and Belarussian oilseed imports mean the EU now needs to source this supply internally or from other exporting countries.”

And with the European preference for non-GM canola, Mr Pistoia said, Canada, the world’s largest canola exporter, was not in a good position to fulfil this demand, despite rebuilding its stocks after a reasonable harvest.

“Putting all these elements into the picture, we expect Australian non-GM port prices for canola could range between AUD730 and AUD 780/ tonne in the first half of 2025, and the GM canola price to potentially trade at an eight to 12 per cent discount to this,” he said.

At Beulah, we use what we sell and we back what we sell with first class customer service, spare parts and support.

“View our website or give us a call and we will be able to help you out.” Beulah Machinery Open Monday - Friday, 7:30am - 5pm 9930 Sydney Road, Cowra Phone (02) 6341 3270 beulahmachinery.com.au

ABOVE: Beulah Machinery in Cowra has geared up to keep the season running smoothly.

RIGHT: Beulah Machinery in Cowra is backing farmers with outstanding AGI Westfield auger deals, service and support.

Hutcheon and Pearce helping you this harvest season

AS the harvest season approaches, time is of the essence.

Every moment counts, and equipment downtime can mean the difference between a profitable yield and lost potential.

At Hutcheon & Pearce, we understand how critical it is to keep your machines running smoothly, and that’s why we are dedicated to standing by our customers when they need us most.

With over 70 years of experience serving the agricultural community, Hutcheon & Pearce is committed to supporting farmers through the highpressure demands of harvest.

Additionally, with access to genuine John Deere parts and cutting-edge diagnostic tools, Hutcheon & Pearce is equipped to resolve problems quickly and effectively.

At Hutcheon & Pearce, we’re a partner in your success. We know the challenges you face during the harvest season, and we are here to make sure that your machines are in top shape, allowing you to focus on what matters most - a successful and productive harvest.

At both our Forbes and Cowra branches, we are here to helpwhether it’s providing rapid parts delivery, expert repairs, or preventative maintenance, our team of skilled technicians are ready to respond, reducing downtime and helping you get back in the paddock faster. We also offer a suite of innovative John Deere technologies designed to increase efficiency and keep you informed, such as JDLink, which monitors equipment health in real-time, alerting you to potential issues before they turn into costly delays.

For more information, phone the Forbes branch on (02) 6862 1666 or the Cowra branch on (02) 6341 4800.

Hutcheon and Pearce is here to help this harvest, whether it’s providing rapid parts delivery, expert repairs, or preventative maintenance.

MARSHALL MULTISPREAD

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ROLLER MILLS

12”, 24”, 36” & 48” Models PTO or Electric Dry and High Moisture Rolling Folding Discharge Auger

For 60 years the heart of the RENN Roller Mill has been its precision-machined 16” diameter rolls, which provide more grain rolling area per revolution compared to other brands of roller mills with smaller diameter rolls. RENN Roller Mills save time and money year after year by rolling more grain per hour with less horsepower. Chill cast rolls for great wearability - rolls can also be regrooved. Ideal for all types of grain, corn and legumes.

Vertical Feed-mixers

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Large carbide-insert knives.

Successful year for Kianma Poll Herefords

By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK

KIERIN and Nikki Martin of Kianma Poll Herefords in Forbes have had an impressive year on the show circuit.

Taking a team of cattle to Sydney, Rockhampton, Brisbane and Melbourne they have been awarded multiple champion ribbons.

Their top performing bull Kianma T-Rex T002 claimed supreme champion bull at the Sydney Royal and grand champion bull at Brisbane Ekka and Beef Australia in Rockhampton.

The first show to kick off Kierin’s and Nikki’s year was the Sydney Royal where not only did Kianma T-Rex perform well but Kianma Last Day T016 was awarded junior champion female and stood top three of the junior heifer interbreed and Kianma Poll Herefords won pair of junior females.

Kianma Poll Herefords then made their showring debut at Beef Australia after a 19 hour trip with four head and a calf.

Hereford and Poll Hereford en-

tries were judged by American Hereford Association Executive Vice President Jack Ward with associate judge Mitchell Taylor, Quipolly, New South Wales.

Kianma Last Day T016 was again junior champion female, Kianma Princess T006 reserve junior champion female and Kianma Princess S009 grand champion female and her January drop heifer calf Kianma Princess V1.

“This cow has a tremendous amount of presence, quality and look about her. She has width and dimension to her chest and is nursing a beautiful heifer calf with a lot of quality. The teat size is really nice, and she has excellent milk flow,” Mr Ward said to Herefords Australia.

Kianma T-Rex T002 also stood in top seven line up in the Beef Australia interbreed with Kianma going on to win the group class.

The July 2022 drop T-Rex was sired by Eathorpe Precision P040 and out of Kianma Matchless P009.

Mr Ward said the champion was structurally sound, with balance and quality, muscle expressed

down the top line, good weight for day of age, and a tidy sheath.

“Beef Australia was a pretty good experience, we got a lot out of it,” Kierin said.

At the Brisbane Ekka Kianma TRex T002 was again senior champion bull and grand champion bull with Kianma also placing second in the breeders group.

The last show of the year for Kianma Poll Herefords was the Melbourne Royal.

Kianma performed well being awarded the most successful Hereford exhibitor.

Other results included Kianma Top Shelf T014 grand Champion bull, supreme Hereford exhibit and reserve champion interbreed bull, Kianma Matchless U007 Junior Champion Female and Kianma also took out the breeders group.

“Melbourne Royal was a pretty good end to a really good year.

“Finally we’ve had a ticket to every big interbreed in the country this year and finally got one across the line which was good.

Amongst shows Kianma Poll her-

Spring is storm season but they’ve been patchy so far.

Season could be warmer, wetter than average: Bureau

THERE is a chance of above-average rainfall as well as temperatures for our region for the next three months.

Much of the region had a drier than average start to the Spring, with rainfall below long-term medians in September and October, but the Wyangala Dam storage was still at 94 per cent at the end of October.

In the Bureau of Meteorology’s long-range forecast released October 31, senior climatologist Stephanie Jacobs said much of the country could expect rainfall and temperatures above long-term averages in the next three months.

Parts of eastern, western and far northern Australia are predicted to see above average rainfall from November to January, and the central mainland rainall within the typical seasonal range.

The one-month outlook for Parkes indicates a 60 per cent chance of exceeding median rainfall, with the same at the Young end of our region and a slightly higher chance just to the west. Days and nights are likely to be warmer than average, with a greater than 70 per cent chance of exceeding the median temperature in the Parkes region and 80 per cent chance for the Hilltops. So far, Spring has been drier than predicted across much of this area.

efords have also had a successful sale year.

They travelled to Wodonga in May for the Wodonga Hereford National Show and Sale.

“We sold a bull there for $10,000,” Kierin said.

“We also had our own on property sale in August.

“We had an 80% clearance on sale day and we have sold everything since so we’ve sold all our sale cattle for the year which is pretty good.”

Kianma Poll Herefords was established in 2008 by Kierin.

“It began for me with Herefords as that’s where we gained support and then it grew to a passion for the cattle.

“We just really like what the cattle have to offer, they suit our business model very well, that’s how it started and it’s grown to our business now, it’s what we know and where we want to head.

“It has certainly been a successful year and we are absolutely happy with the results.”

Kierin and Nikki with Kianma Poll Herefords are already planning for 2025.

Parkes airport recorded 24mm of rain for the month of September, below the median of 33.4mm, and 36.8mm in October, the median 36.9mm.

Forbes had below median rainfall in September of 20.2mm (median of 31.2mm) and October with 29mm in October (median of 34mm). Cowra had 19mm in September, below the 34mm median, and did get some more rain in October with 42.4mm, above the 39mm median.

Young had a drier September with 3mm recorded at the airport and 13.2mm recorded in October, well below the medians of 35.8mm and 43.2mm.

The El Nino Southern Oscillation and the Indian Ocean Dipole were both neutral at the time of the report.

The Bureau of Meteology has urged people to understand local fire danger risk ahead of the season and review bushfire emergency plans.

Kianma Last Day T016 was awarded junior champion female and stood top three of the junior heifer interbreed at they Sydney Royal.

Kianma Top Shelf T014 won supreme Hereford exhibit with Kierin and Nikki Martin.

Kianma T-Rex T002 claimed supreme champion bull at the Sydney Royal and grand champion bull at Brisbane Ekka and Beef Australia in Rockhampton.

Riley Martin, Nikki Martin, Mark Skown, Kierin Martin, Tabby Cross, Mitch Taylor, Blair Martin and Jack Ward with Senior and grand female champion was awarded to Kianma Princess S009 (AI) (P) and her January drop heifer calf, Kianma Princess V1 at Beef Australia in Rockhampton. PHOTOS: Supplied

Selling centre celebrates 60 years

By DAN RYAN

LIKE any other selling day, the 60th anniversary of Cowra’s Saleyards was a cacophony of creaky gates and the calls of sheep, being drowned out by prices, bids and the discussions of the market among mates.

For 60 years, the saleyards has played a vital role in the agricultural economy, serving as a hub for farmers and buyers to conduct business, with this day something of a milestone for generations of farmers and buyers alike who have witnessed and borne change at the mercy of markets and drought.

Les Sutherland, who was born in Cowra, says the biggest milestone for him was the first $50 suckling lamb.

“I was only a kid but I can remember the closing of Homebush saleyards.

“We’d put sheep on the train to go all the way from Koorawatha,” he said.

“When you think about it, they were sending them to Homebush, and next day they’d be selling them so they’d have to have been efficient.”

Chris Cummins has over 35 years livestock buying experience, starting with PD Mulligan, and he’s bought plenty through Cowra saleyards.

“Everyone over the region sold their lambs in Cowra,” he said.

A common theme brought up by farmers was the social aspect of the saleyards, where people in a common trade are often separated by large distances and busy schedules - there’s little other

chance for them to meet.

Mr Cummins said the saleyards also needed to be preserved for the vital role they play in the region.

“Saleyards still play a very important role for setting the benchmark for prices.

“They’re still an integral part of the community,” he said.

Paul Dresser of JJ Dresser also said he’d seen a great deal of change.

“I was here at the first sale in 1964, my father was on the saleyard committee who helped start the yards, and I’d just left school,” he said.

“My brother and myself started selling in 1971 and have been ever since.

“You see a lot of change, in that era a trade lamb was 16 kilos. And now they’re 23.

“To say to someone in 1970 ‘there’ll be lambs in these saleyards here that’ll weigh 34 kilos they’d have shaken their heads and walked away.”

Mr Dresser echoed Mr Cummins’ words about the value of the yards as a social space.

“I think it’s a wonderful thing, the social side of farming.

“To be able to talk about what is going on at your place, which you’re terribly worried about, you’ll find many of the others are having the same problems,” he said.

“It eases your mind to talk to them and see what they’re doing about it and then you can go home.”

Mr Dresser, having attended the yards for years, reinforced the value of the yards

as a measure of quality.

“It’s very important, as small a saleyard it is, the quality here would be 90 percent top quality lambs and that’s what keeps this saleyard rolling through,” he said.

The next generation of salesmen, sellers and buyers, is in good hands with Cooper and Joe Sullivan, as well as Will Cain.

All three expressed their admiration for the generations who had kept the trade going.

Mr Cooper Sullivan told the Cowra Guardian that he’d been shown a photo of Joe Dresser who helped design the saleyards.

“So I suppose it’s intertwined with Dresser’s blood and history, there’s a fair bit of a connection,” he said.

“The farmers probably only come off the property once or twice a week, talk shop and see how everyone’s going.”

Mr Sullivan said the Saleyards were known for their quality and transparencyand their location, location, location.

“That’s why why Cowra’s so strong, it’s that it’s located in the breadbasket of the state. Everywhere you look, for a 300 km radius, it’s prime land,” he said.

“The saleyards are just one of many avenues you can go down.

“If they’re quality stock, you’ll find five or six processors standing up there waiting for you.”

Farmer feedback to improve advice and support

A NEW study is being launched that will give landholders the opportunity to complete a short survey once a year for five years to track current and future land management practices in NSW and improve support for farmers. Manager Strategy, Evaluation and Business Improvement Tracey Potts said the study will help measure Local Land Services’ reach and impact across regional NSW, while continually improving its services.

“Local Land Services has thousands of touchpoints with farmers and landholders each year through events, training and one-on-one support,” Ms Potts said.

“This study asks one fundamental question: what influence does our agency have on land managers’ adoption of best-practice systems?

“These valuable insights will help us tailor our information and services to provide more targeted support.”

The survey covers a range of

basic and progressive practices as they relate to the agency’s services, including sustainable agriculture, natural resource management, animal biosecurity and welfare, and invasive species.

It asks landholders how they manage threats on their property, manage natural and production assets, and prepare for change and emergencies.

Landholders who own or manage 2Ha of land or more are invited to take the initial baseline survey by November

30, 2024 to be part of the study. Those who do so will go in the draw to win a prize. Register online at regionalnsw.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/ SV_a9R0O5fOGxOVidw or visit the website for more information at www.lls.nsw.gov.au/ what-we-do/our-major-projects/measuring-what-matters

The Measuring What Matters project aims to evaluate the impact of Local Land Services’ advice and programs to best meet landholders’ needs.

COWRA REGIONAL AL LIVESTOCK SELL SELLING CENTRE

Prime lamb and Sheep Sale every Wednesday 11:30am.

• Selling Agents • Allan Gray & Co • Normal C. Bellamy

• JJ Dresser & Co • James P Keady • Elders – Cowra

• Kevin Miller Whitty & Co • Landmark Cowra

The Cowra Saleyards has been selling quality for 60 years.

Will Kane, Joe and Cooper Sullivan.

Chris Cummins and Paul Dresser said the yards were important for their quality and social value.

Les Sutherland and Graham Clements at the 60 year celebrations.

A new study is being launched, that will give landholders the opportunity to track current and future land management practices in NSW and improve support for farmers. PHOTO: Supplied

Shoring up sheep industry future

Two of the region’s most promising young stock auctioneers, Jack Harper and Darcy Howard, see the Cowra Show Society ‘s Hoof and Hook competition which they hosted in October as a promotional tool for the industry.

“We’ve nearly doubled (entries) this year and have students from St Raphael’s School giving us a hand,” Mr Harper said.

“It was nice to see the kids get involved and show a bit of interest,” he said.

Judging of the hoof section was completed at the Cowra Show on October 19 before the 180 lambs entered were sent to Cowra’s Breakout River meets, who Mr Harper thanked for being involved, the following week for judging on the hook.

He also thanked Glen Peterson from Thomas Foods International who undertook the hoof judging and took the time to explain the process to students who assisted on the day.

“When I’m looking to buy stock we’re always looking at meat yields, it’s not the live weight, I’m looking at the carcass weight,” Mr Peterson told the students.

“You can have two lambs of the same weight but with a different build that will give you more meat,” he said.

Mr Peterson went on to explain to the students how they could envisage what a lamb looked like from the size of the chop they purchase in the supermarket or butcher shop.

trade, hoof export and hoof export sections..

Second in the hoof trade section was a tie between M Thornberry and Tom Harris.

The hoof export runner up was again M Thornberry.

Second in the heavy class was Tom Harris.

In the shorn category first in the hoof section went to A,R,P and J Hurrell with the Boyd Bros taking second place.

In the hook categories first in the trade section went to PA and ML Weal with F Trengrove in second place.

The export category went to Brett and Shaneen Treasure with A,R,P and J Hurrell in second place.

In the heavy lambs equal first on the hook went to P Sturgess and Elmsleigh Partnership.

The best of the shorn lambs on the hook was awarded to Boyd Bros with Brett and Shaneen Treasure in second place.

“Thanks to our sponsors and the exhibitors,” Mr Harper said.

“You don’t have these competitions unless people want to get involved and showcase their product.

“Hopefully it just keeps growing from here,” Mr Harper said, explaining entries had nearly doubled in 2024.

“The feedback from everyone has been really good, the vendors loved it, we’ve got a few sponsors on board.

“We’re very happy with the quality, everyone has done a good job presenting them, even with a bit of rain on them they’ve still presented really well,” he said, in a year that the district’s lambs are “doing very well”.

Judging of both the lambs on the hoof and the hook is done blind with the judges unaware of the owners of the lambs.

The champion lamb of the show on the hoof was exhibited by Ross Graham who also took out the champion lamb on the hook to go along with successes in the hoof

“It’s a good way for local producers to show off their stock and get a bit of recognition from the locals who come through on the day and have a look at how well the industry is put together,” Mr Harper said.

YOU KNOW the Central West and Hilltops Farmer newspaper reaches over 20,000 READERS every month?

Sheep and goat eID tag discount program is open

The $10.2 million electronic identification device Tag Discount Program is now live and available to support producers with the costs of eID devices for sheep and goats.

The use of eID tags will become mandatory commencing 1 January 2025 for all sheep and goats born from this date.

Under the program, producers will receive a discount of $0.76 (including GST) per eID device purchased between November 1, 2024 and October 31, 2025, or until funds are exhausted.

The discount program will ensure there are eID tags available to producers from $1.

To take advantage of this program, sheep and goat producers in NSW must have an active Property Identification Code (PIC) and purchase eligible devices from participating retailers or directly from manufacturers during the specified period.

duce the duration and industry impact of any emergency animal disease or residue incident.

Eligible white 2025 NLISaccredited eID devices will have the discount automatically applied at the point of sale, meaning producers will pay $0.76 less (including GST) than the original retail price when purchasing online or in-store.

For more information please visit the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website and sign up to the NSW sheep and goat eID newsletter.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said the program would help farmers prepare for the future of livestock management in NSW.

The structure of this discount program is designed to maximise benefits for producers while minimising administrative responsibilities, with the discount applied directly at the point of sale with participating device manufacturers and retailers.

The government says the move to eID devices will ensure more accurate and timely traceability to help re-

Producers who require more than 3500 devices under the program will need to request pre-approval via the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website.

The discount can be applied on one order per PIC. Multiple orders are allowed for orders greater than 3500 devices, with pre-approval.

“By streamlining the purchasing process and providing significant discounts on eID devices, we are reducing the administrative load for producers,” she said.

‘This is about protecting the state’s $21.2 billion agriculture sector from biosecurity threats and ensuring our export markets remain secure.”

Organisers Darcy Howard (left) and Jack Harper (right) with judge Glen Peterson and son Archie with the champion lambs exhibited by Ross Graham at the Cowra Show.

The use of eID tags will become mandatory for all sheep and goats born from January 1, 2025.

PHOTO: DPI

Connecting rural women in Harden

NSW Rural Women’s Network Gathering a time to share inspiration, learning and laughter

By REBECCA HEWSON

LADIES from across the state converged on Harden Murrumburrah to take part in the NSW Rural Women’s Network Gathering.

The weekend-long event not only focused on community, connection and women, it also highlighted the Harden Murrumburrah region as well with events held at The Lighthorse Hotel, the Harden Country Club, the Harden Murrumburrah Arts Council and the Harden Murrumburrah Community Markets.

The Harden Country Club was a hive of activity on the Saturday.

Thanks to sponsors from Harden Bearings and Hardware, Stocklive, the Harden/Boorowa branch of the NSW Farmers, Hilltops Council, Yarrawonga, Harden Murrumburrah Rural Development Corporation, PKF, Flemings Rural, Long Track Pantry - Jugiong, Back Creek Orchard, Hardrock Gym and the Harden Country Club participants enjoyed three amazing workshops throughout the day that focused on fun, fitness, mental health and wellbeing as well as learning new skills, or brushing up on old ones.

HRDC Deputy Chair Samantha Flanery was the emcee for the day and welcomed everyone, Wiradjuri Elder, Aunty Lill Cooper said a very touching Welcome to Country before Minister for Women, Seniors, Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison MP spoke.

Monitor rams, keep bruco out of your flock

By NIK CRONIN CENTRAL WEST LLS

OVINE brucellosis, or ‘bruco’ in sheep, is the most common cause of infertility in rams.

It is diagnosed with varying frequency depending on where you are in New South Wales.

I generally say it is uncommon in our local area in Forbes, but over the past six months I have seen a few positive lab results come in which is a bit of a concern.

Bruco is a bacterial infection of the ram’s reproductive organs.

It causes an inflammatory reaction which can partially or completely obstruct the passage of sperm.

In most cases there are secondary changes that can be palpated in the scrotum of an infected animal.

There may be enlarged (early on) or shrunken testicles (a more chronic sign), with lumps or bumps in the epididymis. One or both sides may be affected.

Infection spreads when an infected ram and a clean ram mate the same ewe, and also during homosexual activity between rams out of joining.

There is no treatment for bruco, so infected rams need to be culled. This is expensive where there is a high infection rate.

If you have any concerns regarding bruco, or the fertility of your sheep flock, you can talk to your local district vet at the Central West Local Land Services Forbes office on 6850 1600.

Eradication programs can be drawn out as repeat testing is required as part of the process.

As always, prevention of infection is the best strategy.

To prevent the introduction of bruco to your sheep flock; - Prevent strays. This is simple but crucial biosecurity, and even more important with a few more positive cases turning up in our district

- Examine ram testicles at least annually as part of a pre-breeding soundness check around 12 weeks before joining.

Any with abnormalities can be examined by a vet and tested for bruco

- Buy rams from studs that participate in the NSW Ovine Brucellosis Accreditation Scheme (and that also means don’t buy rams from the sale-

yard!)

- While ewes can carry bruco, infection is said to be short-term. So the risk of introducing infection in introduced ewes can be managed by isolating dry ewes for at least one month before joining; or with pregnant ewes, lambing them in isolation and not joining them for four months post lambing.

More in-depth information on bruco can be found in this NSW DPI Primefact, including a link to really handy video demonstrating ram scrotal palpation.

If you have any concerns regarding bruco, or the fertility of your sheep flock you can talk to your local district vet at the Central West Local Land Services Forbes office on 6850 1600 or your private vet.

Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty MLC, wasn’t able to make it to the event, however, she sent a video message to everyone, focusing on the importance of rural and regional women in NSW.

Jana Pittman spoke on balance, her own personal experiences with Olympics, both summer and winter, studying medicine, the importance of female health, her family, and putting things into perspective.

Her speech was touching, funny and insightful, and of course inspirational.

Later in the day there was another very insightful panel with Kimberley Furness, Ruby Riethmuller and Jana Pittman on empowering women in regional, rural and remote NSW and how to overcome the barriers to professional and personal fulfillment.

Attendees were able to ask questions and speak with Kimberley, Ruby and Jana and personally share their own experiences and ask for advice, help etc.

On Saturday night there was a dinner with plenty of entertainment and the opportunity on Sunday to attend the Harden Murrumburrah Community Markets, where they could sample and purchase local products and produce.

The entire event was applauded by Women NSW, attendees who came from across NSW and Victoria and everyone involved.

A huge congratulations goes out to the Harden-Murrumburrah committee on their hard work, dedication and going above and beyond to put on what was an amazing event that celebrated women from the country and bush.

The 2025 Gathering will be held in Lismore.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke had a fantastic time making her new scarf.

Harden Murrumburrah Regional Development Corporation Deputy Chairperson Samantha Flanery was MC for the 2024 Rural Women’s Gathering.

Jana Pittman’s address to the 2024 Rural Women’s Gathering was funny, poignant and challenged us to change our perspective.

Kimberley Furness talking about how to cultivate a community of rural and regional business women.

Imogen and Ebony Ryan and Isabelle Whiteman ready to go on the dodgemsfree all day at Eugowra’s Canola Cup day.

FABULOUS

rawfor

AT SPRING RACES

SPRING RACING HAS BEEN IN FULL SWING AROUND THE REGION, WITH THE SUN SHINING ON GREAT DAYS HOSTED BY COUNTRY RACING CLUBS.

ACING WING ON, WITH THE ING T BY LUBS.

Forbes

Fashions

i

Best Dressed Gent Harrison Terry at the Forbes Spring Races.

Most Elegant Lady Kristy Moore at the 2024 Forbes Spring Races.

Penelope and Charlotte Crawford from Cargo in their pretty dresses for the Canola Cup family fun day on the October long weekend.

NATALIE HAYES AND CASEY WALKER FROM GRENFELL TRACKSIDE AT EUGOWRA’S CANOLA CUP.

Young attendees were all smiles in the shade of one of the tents.

Some younger fashionistas showed off some spring fashion at Young.

Burrangong Races was a day to enjoy a chat and a cold one with friends.

Plenty of beautiful dresses were spotted at Burrangong Picnic Races, some provided by Young’s very own Kirk & Co, a sponsor of the event.

Lady of the Day Sally Martin at the Burrangong Picnic Races.

Elizabeth Patterson from Griffith took out the title of Canola Cup Queen at Eugowra on the October long weekend.

Lisa Cummings, Jenny Laing and Glenda McIntosh from Cowra enjoying Eugowra’s Canola Cup.

Eliz the o on t

Spring Races

h on the Field d organisers Sheryn Davie and Mel West.

Jackie Murray was a very deserving winner of Best Millinery at Forbes Spring Races.

Landcare a winner, will you volunteer?

By MARG APPLEBBE

CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE

Homegrown Parkes and Central West Lachlan Landcare were acknowledged as winners of the Community Spirit and Inclusion Award at the Keep Australia Beautiful NSW Awards night on Saturday in Bathurst.

It was my pleasure to be able to accept the Award which acknowledges the passion, hard work and dedication of our Homegrown Parkes Committee.

Our Homegrown Parkes submission contributed to the overall win for Parkes, who are now the State winners and will attend the National Conference in May 2025!

This Award is possible due to the decision of our Landcare Committee to support the delivery of Homegrown Parkes events until June 2027, in line with our current funding for the Local Landcare Coordinator role through the Landcare Enabling Program.

This decision from our committee

has led to partnerships, engagement, contributions back into our community, encouragement of new small business, increased social cohesion and educational opportunities.

This would not be possible without the dedicated volunteers from Central West Lachlan Landcare and Parkes Community Arts.

If you have thought about joining a volunteer group like these, now is the time!

We have already began planning for our two events in 2025 and hope to share some exciting news in the next couple of weeks regarding these two events.

Of course, Homegrown Parkes is not possible without support from Parkes Shire Council.

It takes a team behind the scenes to prepare and recover from events in the Park itself and we work closely with Council Events staff to ensure that we are making the most of opportunities for each event.

Parkes will now host the 2025 Keep Australia Beautiful Awards, which is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our local projects and our communities.

Next week I will be sharing some of the feedback from our last event.

Thank you to everyone that contributed to our surveys.

This helps to shape our future events and to make improvements to provide the best free community learning and engagement event that we can.

Moving forward and looking towards our March event ... here are some things that you can be doing: start planning for veggies and fruit, plants and preserves that you can share at Crop Swap; follow Homegrown Parkes on Facebook and Instagram, and talk to others about getting involved or maybe have a ‘produce challenge’ with your friends.

For more, please go to www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org, twitter, facebook or Instagram @cwllandcare or contact Marg on 0418 611 053.

Feeder heifers hold firm at Forbes, selling 240c to 316c/kg

MONDAY’S CATTLE SALE

Yarding 1264 (down 580)

Quality was mixed with prime yearlings and grown cattle well represented.

Feeder weight cattle were also well supplied and there were limited numbers of cows.

Not all the regular buyers were present.

Young cattle to the trade were down 15c to 20c, prime yearling steers sold from 260c to 344c, and prime yearling heifers, 261c to 337c/kg.

Feeder steers slipped 6c, 290c to 357c, while feeder heifers held firm, 240c to 316c/kg.

Prime grown steers were firm to dearer, 270c to 359c, and prime grown heifers sold 10c cheaper, 270c to 346c/kg.

Cows lifted 10c, 2 and 3 scores sold from 180c to 285c, and heavy prime cows, 285c to 300c/kg.

TUESDAY’S SHEEP SALE

Yarding 27,895 (down 13,105)

Lamb numbers eased and there were around 6400 new season lambs offered.

The quality was back in the new season run with a plainer and lighter offering that was drier.

Old lambs were also lighter and plainer with heavy weights in short supply.

Shorn short skinned lambs attracted a lot of attention from buyers while longer skinned lambs were discounted.

The market sold to cheaper trends with most falling $10

to $15/head.

Shorn new season lambs and shorn old lambs with weight were firm to $5 dearer but numbers were limited on those lambs.

New season store lambs sold from $64 to $139/head and trade weights back to the paddock reached $160/head.

Trade lambs ranged from $135 to $196 and heavy weights $196 to $223/head.

Most averaged from 790c to 830c/kg.

Old trade lambs were mixed in quality and sold from $114 to $178 with shorn lambs selling up to $207/ head.

The woolly old lambs sold between 600c and 730c while the shorn lambs 800c to 850c/ kg.

Heavy weights ranged from $186 to $231 and extra heavy lambs $244 to $276/ head with old and new season shorn lambs ranging from 800c to 860c/kg.

Heavy Merinos were firm on reduced numbers and sold from $171 to $218/head or 680c/kg.

Mutton numbers lifted and the quality was good with plenty of medium and heavy mutton.

Prices were firm to $8 dearer with the medium weight ewes selling from $48 to $95 and heavy crossbred ewes reached $131/head. The best of the Merino ewes reached $136/head and most mutton ranged between 320c and 380c/kg.

FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVESTOCK REPORTING AGENCY FRIDAY’S PIG SALE

Only 1 boar and similar numbers of sows saw prices firm on last sale.

A very light yarding of bacon saw prices drop $10-$20 mainly quality related pork numbers remained on the fence as last sale with prices slipping $30 to $40 per head. A good quality yarding of mainly lighter suckers saw prices also drop by $10 to $15.

FROM VC REID SMITH LIVESTOCK

Bathurst Regional Council Mayor Robert Taylor and Marg Applebee accepting the Keep Australia Beautiful Awards for Homegrown Parkes in the Community Spirit and Inclusion Category.

PHOTO: Supplied

Cows lifted 10c, 2 and 3 scores sold from 180c to 285c, and heavy prime cows, 285c to 300c/ kg. PHOTO: File

Central West

Wrangler takes the reins takes the reins in Jeep round-up in

JEEP WRANGLER: The latest Wrangler continues championing the Jeep way with a reworked black textured seven-slot grille with dark slots, metallic bezels, and bodymatched surround, boosting cooling for better performance.

By DEREK OGDEN, Marque Motoring

NOTHING could be more Jeep than the Wrangler.

Introduced in 1986, the midsize SUV has been central to the maker’s brand identity since World War II when it was produced by Willys.

Progressing through the CJ (Civilian Jeeps) to this day they use a separate body and frame, rigid live axles, a tapering nose design with flared fenders, a foldflat windscreen and can be driven without doors.

Also, with a few exceptions, they have part-time four-wheel drive systems, with high and low gearing, and standard open bodies with removable hard or soft tops.

The Wrangler was redesigned to meet safety standards and make it more comfortable on-road by upgrading the suspension, drivetrain, and interior, compared to the CJ.

The suspension on all Wranglers included trackbars and antiroll bars, and, from the 1997 TJ onwards, front and rear coil springs instead of leaf springs.

For the 2024 Wrangler, the Pentastar V6 engine has been retired in favour of a turbocharged four-cylinder motor, developing 200kW of peak power and 400Nm of torque with fuel effi ciency gains and unchanged towing capacity at 2495 kg for a braked trailer.

The MY24 Wrangler comes in four variants, all cheaper and with more equipment than the models they replace – the Sport S four-door, which replaces the Night Eagle 4dr, Overland 4dr and Rubicon 2dr and 4dr.

Prices start at $75,950 for the entry-level Sport S and top out at $90,450 for the Rubicon 4dr.

All are before on-road costs and dealer delivery charges.

The Wrangler range is covered by Jeep’s five-year unlimited kilometres warranty, plus five years roadside assistance.

STYLING

The latest Wrangler continues championing the Jeep way with a reworked black textured seven-slot grille with dark slots, metallic bezels, and body-matched surround, boosting cooling for better performance.

Badging relates to the Jeep Trail Rated tradition, leaving no doubt as to the model and what it is good at.

The antenna is integrated into the ‘Gorilla Glass’ windscreen protecting it from brushes with low hanging flora.

Eighteen-inch alloy wheels come in a range of modern designs, with the spare clinging to the rear barn door under a soft cover.

INTERIOR

The interior space on offer is close to what you’d get in a medium-sized SUV.

Overland and Rubicon models now boast McKinley leather seats with 12-way power up front and four-way lumbar support, as well as a hard seat back panel.

Heritage inspired surroundings feature soft-touch furnishings with contrasting stitching.

Updates include a reworked instrument cluster and panel bolster bezels. A rail on top of the dash acts as a mount for devices such as smartphones and cameras.

A cramped footwell is home to a solid footbrake pedal leaving next to no space for the driver’s left foot, a nod to the wagon’s lefthand drive origins.

The handbrake also lines up on the left of the transmission tunnel.

The optional one-touch top opens up the somewhat sombre cabin surroundings, letting in light and air.

Grab the tool kit and really free up the interior, removing roof, doors, windscreen and almost anything that’s not ‘tied down’.

The boot will take 898 litres of cargo with the rear seat backs up and 2050 litres to the roof line with the backs folded.

A rear seat reminder checks for kids or other stuff in danger of being left behind when leaving the vehicle.

ENGINE/TRANSMISSION

The Wrangler is powered by a 2-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine pumping out 200kW of power and 400Nm of torque. Left behind is the V6 Pentastar motor.

On Overland, the new unit is mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Jeep’s Selec-Trac 4×4 system.

SAFETY

All models now include first and second-row curtain airbags as well as the standard front and side seat-

mounted airbags already fitted. Active safety includes autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop function, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear-view camera and front and rear parking sensors.

DRIVING

Jeep claims combined urban / highway cycle fuel consumption of 9.2 litres per 100 kilometres for the Sport S and Overland, and 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres for the Rubicons, down from 9.7L/100km and 10.3L/100km of the V6. The test Overland recorded 15.6 and 7 litres per 100 kilometres, respectively, on recommended 95 RON premium petrol.

The Wrangler incorporates lightweight, high strength aluminium body-on-frame design with a five-link front and rear suspension, which features upper and lower high-strength steel control arms, full-width highstrength steel track bars and tuned shocks for a balanced on- and offroad performance.

On test, on the bitumen there was tyre noise from the rugged Bridgestone Duellers.

The Wrangler lives up to its Trail rating on the Rubicon in the Sierra Nevada, the Overland’s Selec-Trac 4 4 System providing automatic swapping of two- and four-wheel drive, Dana solid front and rear axles, two-speed transfer case, traction control and four skid plates.

This provides part-time low and high range, and high range and high range full-time automatic 2WD and 4WD switches according to driving conditions.

The TrailCam cuts out blind spots during off-road navigation and boosts power delivery on angled bends.

Perched atop the grille the camera lens stays free from debris and automatic washing ensures clear visibility.

SUMMARY

Something old, something new: the Wrangler remains tall in the saddle of the Jeep pantheon.

RATINGS

Looks: 8/10

Performance: 7/10

Safety: 6/10

Thirst:7/10

Practicality: 8/10

Comfort: 6/10

Tech: 8/10

Value 6/10

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

4 What is a mark against a person for deficiency (7)

8 Thor was the ancient god of what (7)

9 Name an aromatic seed used in medicine, cookery, etc (7)

10 Who founded the settlement in New South Wales, Arthur ... (7)

11 To be standing upright, is to be standing in which manner (7)

12 Name the bush tucker made from flour and water (6)

14 What are growths of facial hair (6)

18 Which term implies that which is near or on the kidneys (7)

21 Which sea lies between PNG, Indonesia, and Australia (7)

22 What is a sailing vessel built and rigged for speed (7)

23 To raise to a higher degree, is to do what (7)

24 What are very small parts or quantities (7)

DOWN

1 What is a fixed or regular pay (7)

2 Who, with her husband, discovered radium in 1898, Marie ... (5)

3 To regard with blind adoration, is to do what (7)

4 Who deals in textiles and cloth goods (6)

5 Name a widely cultivated cereal plant (5)

6 To go in again, is to do what (7)

7 What is a drink made of spirits and hot water (5)

13 Which term broadly describes a communist (7)

15 What is a more common term for otalgia (7)

E-QUATIONS

Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining

Solve

16 Who are fierce, brutal persons (7)

17 What are sudden blazes of fire or light, used as signals (6)

18 Name a WA racecourse (5)

19 Kathmandu is the capital of which kingdom in southern Asia (5)

20 Who wrote “Auld Lang Syne”, Robbie ... (5)

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

1 CORELLA

(a) A long-billed cockatoo

(b) A cotton stuff made to resemble velvet

(c) The membrane that forms the front covering of the eye

2 DESICCATE

(a) To earnestly desire

(b) To preserve by drying

(c) To divert from a sacred purpose

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:

Attempt (3)

Awful (3)

French cap (5)

Gem from oyster (5) Of the breast (7)

Personal journal (5)

Send money (5) Tap lightly (3) Until (poet) (3) Woman who serves drinks (7)

6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Martin Clunes: Islands Of The Pacific. 2.00 Escape To The Country. 3.00 I Escaped To The Country. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 5.00 Horse Racing. Five Diamonds Ladies Day and Keith Noud Raceday. 6.00 Dog Patrol. 6.30 The Highland Vet. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Five Diamonds Ladies Day and Keith Noud 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 MOVIE: Independence Day: Resurgence. (2016) Liam Hemsworth, Jeff Goldblum. 9.55 MOVIE: I, Robot. (2004) Will Smith. 12.10 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 2.00 Motor Racing. Shannons SpeedSeries. Round 7. 4.00 Desert Collectors. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Football. AFL Women’s. First 9.15 MOVIE: Robin Hood. (2018) Taron Egerton. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Border Security: International. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 8.30 MOVIE: Ford V Ferrari. (2019) Matt Damon, Christian Bale, Jon Bernthal. 11.40 Late Programs.

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A once-harmonious relationship appears to be hitting some sour notes. Spend some time together to see why things have gone off-key. What you learn might surprise you.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) You feel a need to make some changes. Good! You can do it on a small scale (some new clothes, for example) or go big and redecorate your home and/or office.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Control your tendency toward early boredom. A situation in your life might be taking a long time to develop, but patience pays off. Stay with it.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) You might feel like you’re on an emotional roller coaster this week. Don’t fret; just ride it out and let things settle down. A Pisces shows understanding.

8.40

Angel Has Fallen. (2019) Gerard Butler, Morgan Freeman,

Huston. 11.00 Inside Beverly Hills.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Buffy The Vampire Slayer. 3.00 My Asian Banquet. 3.25 Modern Family. 3.50 Bondi Vet. 4.45 Australia’s Got Talent. 6.15 MOVIE: Ferdinand. (2017) 8.30 MOVIE: The Breakfast Club. (1985) Molly Ringwald, Ally Sheedy, Emilio Estevez. 10.35 MOVIE: Dangerous Minds. (1995) 12.25 Late Programs.

11.50 The First 48. 12.40 Tipping Point. 1.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 1.50 Keeping Up Appearances. 3.10 Antiques Roadshow. 3.40 MOVIE: Hell Is A City. (1960) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Antiques Downunder. 8.30 MOVIE:

1.00 Late

6.00 Getaway. 6.30 A Current Affair. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. 12.00 Horse Racing. Melbourne Cup Carnival. Stakes Day. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: Sully. (2016) Tom Hanks, Aaron Eckhart. 9.30 MOVIE: Plane. (2023) Gerard Butler, Mike Colter, Tony Goldwyn. 11.40 MOVIE: Judas And The Black Messiah. (2021) 2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. 2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 4.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Sydney Weekender. 11.00 Holistic Living. 11.40 Australia’s Cheapest Weddings. 1.00 Australia’s Got Talent. 2.30 Wife Swap Australia. 3.45 Dancing With The Stars: All Stars. 5.15 MOVIE: Goodbye Christopher Robin. (2017) 7.30 MOVIE: Big. (1988) Tom Hanks. 9.45 MOVIE: Beaches. (1988) Bette Midler. 12.25 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.20 Shark Tank. 11.25 Taskmaster Australia. 12.30 10 Minute Kitchen. 1.00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 1.30 The Dog Down Under. 2.00 Charming China. Return. 2.30 Buy To Build. 3.00 What’s Up Down Under. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Helping Hands. 10.30 Antiques Downunder. 11.30 MOVIE: The Happiest Days Of Your Life. (1950) 1.15 MOVIE: Summer Holiday. (1963) 3.30 MOVIE: Clambake. (1967) 5.30 MOVIE: Separate Tables. (1958) 7.30 MOVIE: You’ve Got Mail. (1998) Tom Hanks. 9.55 MOVIE: Music & Lyrics. (2007) 12.05 Late Programs.

6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 The Block. Final. 9.00 60 Minutes. 10.00 9News Late. 10.30 See No Evil. 11.30 The First 48. 12.20 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Holistic Living. 10.30 My Asian Banquet. 11.00 Farmer Wants A Wife. 12.30 Behave Yourself. 1.30 Wife Swap Australia. 3.00 Sean’s Kitchen. 3.30 Home And Away. 5.30 Gold Coast Ocean Rescue. 6.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. 10.30 Law &

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.30 MOVIE: 633 Squadron. (1964) 4.30 M*A*S*H. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 Rugby League. Championships. Men’s Bowl. Final. 8.15 Pacific Championship: Men’s Bowl – Final Post-Match. 8.30 MOVIE: Outbreak. (1995) Dustin Hoffman. 11.00 Chicago Med. 12.00 Late Programs.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Do something different for once: Compromise. A stubborn stand on an important issue proves counterproductive. You need to be open to new ideas.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) A friend offers advice that you perceive as an act of betrayal. But before you turn against the messenger, pay attention to the message itself.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A year of riding an emotional pogo stick finally settles down. Use this calmer period to restore frayed relationships and pursue new opportunities.

SCORPIO (October 23 to

(November

to

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) While you prefer taking the tried-and-true course in life, be adventurous this week and accept a challenge that can open up new vistas for you.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Your strong sense of justice helps you deal with a job-related situation. Stay with your principles. A Sagittarius emerges as a supporter.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) You need to build a stronger on-the-job support system to persuade doubting colleagues that your innovative proposals are workable.

~FUNERAL NOTICE~

The relatives & friends of the late Elaine Fay Cheney

Aged 86 yrs Of Pye Street Eugowra.

Beloved wife of the late Stan Cheney

Loved Mother & mother in law of Kerrie (dec’d) & Ian, Christopher & Anne Marie, Timothy & Loving Grandmother & great Grandmother of their children

•

•

Following the recent implementation of the Area Training Plan, Area Western successfully collaborates across 7 Districts to coordinate the Area training calendar to provide expanded learning & development opportunities for volunteers and staff. A rewarding opportunity now exists to further support implementation through contribution to continuous improvement practices; providing SME advice and support; and coordination and development of training.

For further information please refer to or contact , Acting Manager Capability

For information on how to apply, please refer to and search for Job reference:

Are respectfully invited to attend her thanksgiving service to be held at St Matthew’s Anglican church Eugowra

Commencing at 11:30am Monday 11th

November 2024

A private family cremation will be held at Michael Hanley’s Crematorium, Forbes

MICHAEL HANLEY’S FAMILY

Independent Funerals and Cremations

Services of Forbes, Parkes and District 02 6852 1961 ALL HOURS

~FUNERAL NOTICE~ THOMSON, James Anthony “Tony”

2/6/1939 - 23/10/2024 (aged 85)

Of Johnson Street, Forbes NSW

Passed away peacefully at home. He will be dearly missed by his loving wife and very close family, and all those who knew him.

Husband of: Pamela Delves Thomson (nee Lindeman)

Father & Father-in-law to: Jamie & Fiona; Anthony & Lilly; Hamish & Jane; Brian & Muffie Grandfather to: Mackenzie, India, Evie; Libby, Charlie; Audrey, James, Winnie, Vivian; Henry, Bonnie and Dimity

Son of: Jim and Marg Thomson, of Gunnedah, NSW (both deceased)

All family and friends of the late “Tony” are warmly invited to attend his funeral service, to be held at St Johns Anglican Church, Forbes.

Commencing at 12 noon, Friday 8th November 2024. Followed by interment in the lawn portion of the Forbes cemetery

MICHAEL HANLEY’S FAMILY

Independent Funerals and Cremations Services of Forbes, Parkes and District 02 6852 1961 ALL HOURS

WEST, Graham.

30/3/45 ~ 10/11/18

6 years ago you left us to pass through heavens gate.

6 long years and we still miss our husband, our father, our friend, our mate. Joan, David, Wayne, Terry and families.

Nissan Classic draws visitors

Dubbo winner after 136 players, 15 clubs contest weekend

By SHORT PUTT

The annual staging of the Forbes Nissan Classic weekend was bathed in sunshine throughout, with only a wind that seemed to oscillate around to contend with on the Sunday. It was easy to see that both members and visitors alike enjoyed their golf activity.

The major event was held on Sunday with the running of the Classic Stroke Event. The field of 136, including ladies, had representatives from 15 clubs with 54 visitors attending. They all enjoyed a course in tip top condition, greens that were deceptively quick in places and a good feed afterwards.

President Tony Cogswell welcomed all the visitors and thanked Frank Spice Nissan, the Forbes Shire Council, and the other sponsors that help make the event possible. Prizes were offered for Scratch, Handicap and Stableford across three grades in the men and one division in the ladies.

Also up for grabs were NTP’s across all par-3’s and a couple of novelty shots with ‘nearest 2nd shot’ being awarded.

The Mens A-Grade Scratch winner, and holder of the Nissan Classic Trophy, was Cooper Giddings (Dubbo) who managed a 68 on the day.

On his front-9 pars were easy but he only managed a couple of birdies and a bogey.

It was the back-9 where he excelled with ‘trouble free’ golf and managed birdies on the 13th, 15th and 18th holes.

The Mens A-Grade Scratch Runner-up was John Betland with 71. He matched Cooper’s front-9, having started with a birdie and finished with a bogey, and was ‘on fire’ on the back-9. He was 3-under after seven holes but an untimely double-bogey on the 17th and bogey on the 18th meant he slipped back.

The Ladies Scratch was won by Brianna Duncan with 88.

A double-bogey to start did not enthuse her and she could not find form for the remainder of the front-9. But she settled into her swing on the back-9, recording four pars and a lone birdie, with this score giving her 4-points in stableford on that hole.

The Ladies Scratch runnerup was Sharon Grierson with 92. She also needed the front-9 to get warmed up, but stormed home on the back-9 with some excellent play.

Other prize winners were (Forbes unless stated otherwise) were:

Men A-Grade Handicap: S Sallaway (68 nett), R Murray (70 nett).

Men A-Grade Stableford: A Dukes (37 pts), Alf Davies (34 pts).

Men B-Grade Scratch: B Thomas (84), P Kay (86).

Men B-Grade Handicap: W Hagan (70 nett), P Barnes (72 nett).

Men B-Grade Stableford: J Reid (36 pts), J Wood (Dubbo – 35 pts).

Men C-Grade Scratch: R Smith (92), C Byrnes (94).

Men C-Grade Handicap: L Fraser (72 nett on c/b), NJ Morrison (72 nett).

Men C-Grade Stableford: B Ferrao (Breakers – 34 pts), W Brooking (Cabramatta – 33 pts).

Veteran: Scratch – P Dawson (72), Handicap – A Melisi (73 nett).

Junior: Scratch - A Quirk (84), Handicap – C Howe (76 nett).

Men Visitor: Scratch – M Wood

(Dubbo) 73, Handicap – R Hey (Parkes) 74 nett

Ladies Handicap: J Cripps (75 nett), L Cowhan (77 nett)

Ladies Stableford: J Fletcher (31 pts), L Knight (Magenta Shores) 30 pts.

Best Ladies Visitor Nett: M Starkey (North Ryde) 82 nett.

Nearest the pins went to:

Men: 1st A-Grade – R Hey (Parkes), 9th C-Grade – C Banks, 18th B-Grade – R Grayson.

Ladies: 9th – H Davidson, 18th –J White (North Ryde).

The super-pin was won by Shane Sallaway, with a shot to 203 cm, who received an enthusiastic following at the presentation, but sadly no speech was given by him under orders from ‘the boss’.

The sometimes blustery wind affected a few players, especially those teeing off the 10th.

One player, a ‘leftie’, tried to manoeuvre his tee shot to scrape past the trees and then use the wind to hold the centre of the fairway. But he only managed to put three balls into the water.

Another hit the tree on the right side of the tee box, from where his ball bounced to the far side of the 15th fairway. From there he played a magnificent shot into the water.

Other players saw their magnificent tee shot start off down the fairway, then get snaffled by the wind and drift way over onto the 15th fairway.

Any suggestion of a slice was accentuated. One person searching for his ball among the gums trees between the 15th and 14th fairways was H/Pro Will. It can happen to the best of us.

On Saturday the ‘Forbes Advocate Trophy’ 4BBB was played, with 124 players, including five Juniors, participating.

Once again it was important to have a good pairing to ensure you combined well to score highly.

The Men’s Scratch Stableford winners were John Betland and Peter Dawson, who managed to accumulate 43 points. There was a fair margin back to the runners-up, the pairing of Steve Betland/Charlie Dwyer with 38 points.

The Men’s Handicap Stableford went to Stuart Thomas and Hamish Steele-Park with 50 points. They are both used to dealing with numbers and cumulative results so it was easy for them.

Runners-up were Tom Grieve (Pacific Dunes) and Lindsay Beileiter (Wentworth) with 46 points.

The Ladies Scratch Stableford went to Brianna & Carolyn Duncan with 33 points to produce a dominant performance. A long way back was runners-up Wendy Simmons & Sharon Grierson on 25 points.

The Ladies Handicap Stableford went to Heather Davidson & Kerry Stirling with 47 points. They were chased all the way by Bronwyn Dwyer (Breakers) and Kath Jeffress (Cowra) on 45 points.

The ball sweep for men went to 42 points on count back, with 15 pairs being recipients. The ball sweep for Ladies went to 38, with four pairings being lucky. Check in the Pro Shop.

The NTPs went to: 9th – Ladies H Davidson; Men J Pendleton, 18th – Ladies J Fletcher, Men J LeBrocque.

The ‘second shot nearest’ winners were: Ladies (on 13th) – B Duncan; Men (on 12th) – Div 1 J Betland, Div 2 S Martino.

The Superpin was snatched by Peter Dawson, whose shot to 152 cm was the best seen for a long time and less than half the distance for the next closest, who entered his distance in ‘feet and inches’.

The conditions on the day were beautiful, but sometimes the golf was not so good.

Paul Kay had trouble on the 10th tee, but being the champion he is he soon recovered.

Here is the news:

Head Pro Will has a Callaway Equipment Day scheduled for Wed 13 Nov. Contact him at the Pro Shop if you are interested in trying some gear.

The Mens ‘Medal of Medallists’ will be held on Saturday November 15.

All those who won a medal from December 2023 to November 2024 are eligible to compete for the top honour, and are encouraged to participate. The Wallace Cup is sponsored by Lachlan Commodities.

The Events (Men’s) Committee has been re-scheduled to Tuesday November 12, at the FGA House. If you are interested in nomination please contact the Events Cttee Secretary S Grallelis.

The 2024-25 Summer Sixes comp is going well with a number of very low scores being recorded. We shall see what happens when the handicaps settle down.

There are nine rounds before the Christmas-New Year break, with the grand final scheduled for April 6. There is a lot of fun golf to be had!

It is crystal ball time:

This Saturday, November 9, is the November Monthly Medal, sponsored by Jelbarts Tyrepower. There will be a Stableford Medley on the Sunday.

LADIES GOLF

By THE BIRDIE

Ladies Golf results this week begin with Wednesday October 30th a Stableford round Sponsored by Agri-West with play in 2 Divisions.

Div 1 was won by Heather Davidson on count/back from Ev Uphill both ladies scoring 32.

Division 2 was awarded to Alison Kingston with 34 from Julie Wood with 33.

Ball-sweep winners to 32 include Julie Wood, Jenny Hubbard, Ev Up-

hill and Robin Lyell.

Nearest to the pins were Colleen Bratton on the 9th and Alison Kingston on the 18th.

Saturday November 2nd was the start of the Nissan Classic.

4BBB Stableford for Ladies sponsored by the Forbes Advocate.

Winners of the 4BBB Scratch were Brianna Duncan and her mum Carolyn with 33 ( did you help out Carolyn?).

Runners/up were Wendy Simmons and Sharon Grierson with 25.

4BBB Handicap winners were Heather Davidson and partner Kerry Stirling with 47 from runners up Bronwyn Dwyer (Visitor from Breakers) and her partner Kath Jeffries (Visitor from Cowra ) with 45.

Ball Sweep winners were Colleen Venables and Jill Cripps 41, Debbie Tilley and Robin Lyell with 40, Jennifer Fletcher and Veronica Rebellato 38, Leah Knight (visitor Magenta Shores) and Sally Battersby ( visitor Magenta Shores) 38.

Nearest to the pins were Heather Davidson on the 9th and on the 18th Jennifer Fletcher.

2nd Shot onto the 13th green was Brianna Duncan.

Sunday November 3rd was the Nissan Classic sponsored by Frank Spice Nissan.

Scratch Winner with 88 was Brianna Duncan next Best Sharon Grierson on count/back with 92.

Handicap Winner with 75 Net was Jill Cripps runner/up Linda Cowan 77. Stableford winner was Jennifer Fletcher with 31 from runner/up Leah Knight(Visitor from Magenta Shores) 30.

Best Visitor net winner was Megan Starkey from Nth Ryde.

Nearest to the pins were Heather Davidson on the 9th and the 18th was Jackie White (Nth Ryde)

Matches set down for play this week include on Saturday November 9th Individual Stableford sponsored by Jessica’s Beauty & Wellness and on Wednesday November 13th Individual Stableford sponsored by Flint Street Butchery and Forbes’s Central Butchery with play in 2 Divisions.

Saturday November 16th Stroke sponsored by Kate Steel-Park in 2 Divisions. Medal of Medalists Sponsored by Walkers Ag-N-Vet.

The weather is starting to warm up so see you on course early.

VETS GOLF

Spring weather had vets golfers out in one of the best showings with 35 players taking to the Parkes course last Thursday where the inform Ken Sanderson took major honours well under handicap with a creditable 40 points.

Home town stalwart, the likeable John Pearce led the lefties home to be runner-up with 39 points, usually good enough for first prize. Another to be well liked in the vets ranks, Les Little from Forbes left Parkes with the encouragement award after a hard day’s work.

Nearest the pins, 4th A grade Peter Bristoll (P), B Allan Rees (F), 11th A Don McKeowen (F), B Tom Delminico (P).

In the twins town shield, Parkes with 16 players selected their best six individual scores 228, Forbes with 19 players 218 points. Ball sweep to 35 points. 38 Rob Staples (P), Peter Bristoll (P), Tom Delminico (P), Joe Davies (P), 37 Dale Stait (P), Kim Herbert (F), 36 Don McKeowen (F), 35 Nym Dziuba (P), John Fowler (P).

After play a vote was taken regarding tee-off times for the duration of daylight saving where in future Parkes games will therefore be 9am with Forbes remaining at the 10am tee-off until December.

That means Thursday’s play will be in Forbes with noms from 9.30am for 10am shot gun start. November 14 Parkes with tee-off at 9am followed by the Lachlan Valley Open day in Forbes on November 21, noms from 9.15am for a 10am shot-gun start with the last twin towns in Forbes on November 28, 10am shot gun start..

A reminder – The twin towns vets Christmas party on December 5 in Parkes after 18 holes of play. 9am tee-off

What are you doing Tuesday at 9am?

Not much, well you are invited to join the usual dozen or so in a 12 hole social comp, ladies and men, young and old.

Ball toss for partners at 9am, for most coffee after.

Last week the ever consistent Barry Parker took honours with 27 points from Ross Williams 26 then Ken Sanderson 25.

See you Tuesday.

B-Grade Scratch winner Brett Thomas with President Tony Cogswell.

Ladies Stableford winner Jenny Fletcher with Ladies Scratch winner Brianna Duncan.

A-Grade Scratch Champion Cooper Giddings (Dubbo) with Michael Spice (sponsor). PHOTOS: Supplied

Weekend of bowls in honour of club legends

Changes are coming at the Forbes Sports and Recreation Club with nominations for the board of directors finalised to be presented at the Annual General Meeting with a date yet to be confirmed awaiting the auditors report.

Noted amongst the absentees for re-election are current president/treasurer Peter Mackay, vice-president Ray Dunstan and long serving committee member Greg Gunn.

While their contribution to the successful running of the popular Forbes community club has been praised by all members will be hoping the same trend continues with Michael Coles and Jason Howell seeking the honour of club president while Ron Thurlow is standing for re-elected as vice president. At the AGM a treasurer will need to appointed after current committee member Sid Morris withdraw his nomination earlier this week.

Seeking board member election are current members Kerry Roach and Peter Greenhalgh who will be joined by Anne-Marie Howell, Phyllis Miller, Aiden Clarke and Ben Parslow.

On the green 13 Forbes players travelled to Dee Why last weekend for their annual carnival which attracted 28 teams for the two day staging. After the first day’s play on Saturday teams were graded for Sunday’s matches.

Playing 88 ends of bowls over two days is no small task.

Sunday’s matches following the grading from Saturday resulted in:

A grade - Clint Hurford, Viv Russell, Greg Gunn and Scott Andrews;

B grade - Ian Hodges, Peter Besgrove, Brian Asimus and Shane Bolam; C grade - Shayne Staines, Robert Dukes, Bert Bayley and Christian West.

Reports are that the weekend proved a great experience for the ‘newer’ bowlers who proved great ambassadors of the Forbes club.

Unfortunately for our B and C grade teams they were not able to bring home any cash rewards.

However, our A Grade team were the lucky ones coming third overall to being home a financial reward.

Reports from all travellers is that it was a great weekend to play the Dee Why carnival as the city club brings multiple teams to the annual Forbes Easter Carnival every year.

It can also be reported the Forbes players from last weekend is they will be back next year seeking further success.

This weekend play the Bowlie will be the Invitational Day honouring three outstanding players who had the club at heart: Clive Herbert, Lindsay Willding and Greg Parslow. Saturday will be the feature on the greens with three games of 15 ends prior to lunch followed by one game after lunch then presentations. Sunday will be a catch up day with the annual Sunday morning bowls from 9.30m followed by a BBQ lunch.

Prizemoney sits at 1st $2200, 2nd $1100, 3rd $700, 4th $450, 5th $400, 6th $300 while the ‘wooden spoon’ is worth $150.

Co-organiser John Cutler said on Monday while 30 teams have already nominated he is hoping there will be a couple of late nominations, “That would be good,” he said.

He added the day could not be staged without the support of sponsors who include Hutcheson and Pearce; Forbes Stock and Station Agents; Lachlan Sands; C and D Floorcovering; Troy Clarke Painting; City to Country Roofing; Lachlan Cranes; Greg Gunn

Mensland.

SOCIAL BOWLS: Feature last week in social bowls was the last round of the three week play on Sunday morning for the T and M Tyres trophy generously sponsored by Tony and Helen Osbourne.

Over the competition 43 played for the much sought after trophy where Jason Howell first with 38 points from Al Phillips 36.5 and Terry Murphy 35.

On the green last Sunday play was for the $600 jackpot which went unclaimed.

Winning rink had Angie Dwyer and Mick Merritt 26-9 over Jax Murphy and Lawrence Jackson in the scheduled 16 ends. It was a strong finish, only 7-2 after six.

Losing rink resulted in Kelly Stringer and John Cutler going down 10-20 playing Terry Murphy and Tony Osbourne. 10-6 as they headed to drinks. It was a draw between Trish Todd and John Kennedy who drew 13-all with Joyce Grey and Al Phillips with Joyce and Al having to win the last four ends 4-0 for the draw.

Paul Baker and Paul Doust won 20–11 playing Laurie Crouch and Scott McKellar while in the last Jason Howell and Lyall Strudwick won 13-10 over Dale Maynard and Allan Hilder.

Resting touchers, Angie Dwyer, Jason Howell, Laurie Crouch, Trish Todd and Al Phillips, raspberries to Scott McKellar and

Terry Murphy. Chooks, Terry Murphy, Al Phillips, Lawrence Jackson, Mick Merritt, Jax Murphy, Sal Jamo, Paul Hodge, Mick Merritt and Clint Hurford.

Winners last Wednesday morning were John ‘Slippery’ Ward and Kerry Dunstan 15-11 over Irene Riley and Geoff Williams in 20, 9-5 after 10. Runners-up were Gail McKay and Trevor Currey 15-12 in 16 over Ann Mackay and Helen Bailey finishing best after it was 6-all after eight.

In triples Bill Scott, Bill Looney and Gary James won 11-10 in 14 over Tim Everest, Eddie Gould and Bill O’Connell getting home with a four on the last end.

It was a draw between Angela Dent and Noel Jolliffe in 19 playing Geoff West and Paul Doust just lasting after leading 14-4 after eight. Freddie Vogelsang and Alf Davies won 28-20 in 20 playing Colleen Liebich and Peter Mackay.

She has done it again, Ann Nixon leading and winning with Barry Shine 19-18 over Sue Smith who played to conditions leading for Newcastle visitor Chris Bayley in 18. Close all game, 9-all after nine. In-club winners were Peter Mackay and Eddie Gould.

Twenty players Thursday afternoon for another $600 jackpot (unclaimed) with winning rink Paul Atkins and Al Phillips 18-15 in 22 over Tony Bratton and Lyall Strudwick in a close game all day, 4-all after five, 8-all after 10, 12-all after 16. 6-3 home the difference.

Losing were Dale Maynard and Cherie Vincent going down 10-33 in 22 playing Angie Dwyer and Scott McKellar.

Also comfortable home were Bill Looney and Denny Byrnes winning 20-9 over Allan Hilder and Ron Thurlow.

Jason Howell and Jeff Nicholson won 19-15 in 22 over Tara-Lee Shaw and Robert Dukes leading 11-5 after 11 of 22 ends. In the last Max Vincent and Glenn Kearney won 22-17 also in 22 over Jamie Dukes and Wayne Burton. They were behind 11-12 after 14 before a blistering finish 10-5 in eight ends.

Resting touchers Wayne Burton, Al Phillips, Paul Atkins, Denny Byrnes. Raspberries, Wayne Burton and Glenn Kearney.

Join croquet club for a game Tuesday, Saturday

By ELVY QUIRK

Aussie Croquet was played on Saturday November 2.

All three games were won by just one player, May Jones, two games were won by Russell Anderson, Bruce Field, John Job, Noel Jolliffe, Fay Picker, Elvy Quirk, Vince Roberts, Rex Toole and David West. 14/13 scores were recorded by Bruce Field & Allan Jones def John Cole & John Allegri, May Jones & John Browne def Peter West (Solo), Elvy Quirk & Vince Roberts def Bill Scott & Allan Jones. 14/11 scores recorded by Fay Picker & Colleen Liebich def Elvy Quirk & Carolyn Neilsen, Russell Anderson & John Allegri def Joan Littlejohn & Cheryl Toohey, John Job & Noel Jolliffe def Fay Picker & David Williams, David West (solo) def Marie Spry & Robin Pols, Carolyn Neilsen & John Cole def Rex Toole & Colleen Liebich

There were many other scores of 14/10, 14/9 and 14/8 also recorded.

Aussie Croquet is becoming popular, it is more challenging than Golf Croquet. Golf Croquet was played on November 5 and a very warm morning even though we got off to an earlier start. Melbourne Cup sweeps were the order of the day with many taking part.

All three games were won by John Browne, Ray Burridge and Rex Toole. 7/6 game scores were recorded by many: Kevin Wenning & Helen Lupis def Lyall Strudwick & John Job, Lyall Strudwick & John Allegri def Mal Smith & Noel Jolliffe, Ray Burridge & Wayne Wright def Colleen Liebich & Robin Pols, Colleen Liebich & Mal Smith def Elvy Quirk & John Allegri. 8/5 scores as follows: Lyall Strudwick (solo) def Irene Ford (Solo), Noel Jolliffe & Marie Spry def Robin Pols & May Jones, Rex Toole & Mal Smith def John Allegri & Frank Donohoe, John Browne & Wayne Wright def Elvy Quirk & Sue Jolliffe, Colleen Liebich & Ray Burridge def May Jones & Robin Pols, Russell Anderson & Bruce Toole def Graham Falconer & Shirley Chamberlain, Irene Ford & Fay Picker def Carolyn Neilsen & Peter West, Elvy Quirk & May Jones def Shirley Chamberlain & Fay Picker, John Browne & Sue Jolliffe def Helen Lupis & Vince Roberts.

Starting time for the summer season is 9am with arrival at 8.45am to get your names into the draw.

The bi-monthly luncheon is to be held at the Forbes Sportsman Hotel (Golf Club) on Tuesday November 12 with arrival at 12 pm for 12.30 pm serving.

The Christmas season is just around the corner with arrangements to be published closer to the time.

Playing a game of croquet is most rewarding as it is a gentle form of exercise.

Should you wish to try the game come down to Halpins Flat at 8.45 am on a Tuesday and you will be teamed up with an experienced player. Flat soled shoes are needed. Mallets are available to use.

Sporting Shooters news: McCue starts day with perfect score

By TONY BRATTON

Members are reminded the Forbes Sporting Shooters Association By-Monthly meeting for December will be on Wednesday December 11 at the Forbes Sport & Rec club starting at 7-30pm.

Results of the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 caliber rimfire rifle shoot Wednesday October 30.

25metre Buffalo target: David McCue, 270/270; Bruce Dent, 268/270; John Dean, 266/270; Lionel Redfern, 266/270; Norm Brook, 264/270; Wayne Burton, 264/270; Doug Shead, 262/270; Lyall Strudwick, 261/270; Jennie Carpenter, 253/270 and Dennis Christey,

245/270.

50m Fly target: David McCue, 98/100; Doug Shead, 96/100; Dennis Christey, 95/100; Norm Brook, 94/100; Lionel Redfern, 94/100; Lyall Strudwick, 93/100; Bruce Dent, 91/100; John Dean, 88/100; Jennie Carpenter, 84/100 and Wayne Burton, 82/100.

75m Rabbit target: Bruce Dent, 116/120/ Dennis Christey, 115/120; David McCue, 110/120; John Dean, 109/120; Norm Brook, 100/120; Doug Shead, 99/120; Lyall Strudwick, 94/120 and Lionel Redfern, 88/120.

100metre Fly target: John Dean, 102/120; David McCue, 102/120; Bruce Dent, 99/120; Norm Brook, 94/120; Den-

nis Christey, 82/120; Doug Shead, 77/120; Lyall Strudwick, 61/120 and Lionel Redfern shot practice only.

Results of the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre rimfire rifle shoot on Sunday November 3: 25metre .22 target shoot; Steve Hindmarch, 247/250; Brian Neilsen, 245/250; John Gorman, 243/250; Wayne Facey, 243/250; John Dunkley, 243/250; John Dean, 242/250; Niki Bolam, 242/250; Chris Parris, 240/250; Anthony Bratton, 240/250; Norm Brook,238/250; David Coleman, 230/250; Mia Condon, 227/250 and Barabara Brook, 227/250. 50metre Rabbit target shoot; John Dunkley, 240/250;

John Gorman, 237/250; Wayne Facey, 237/250; Brian Neilsen, 227/250; Niki Bolam, 227/250; John Dean, 225/250; Mia Condon, 220/250; Steve Hindmarch, 215/250; Anthony Bratton, 211/250; Norm Brook,207/250; Chris Parris, 195/250; David Coleman, 194/250; and Barabara Brook, 182/250. 75metre Bear target shoot; Niki Bolam, 109/120; John Gorman, 106/120; Wayne Facey, 106/120; Anthony Bratton, 106/120; John Dean, 104/120; Brian Neilsen, 103/120; John Dunkley, 102/120; Steve Hindmarch, 93/120; Chris Parris, 86/120; Norm Brook, 77/120; David Coleman, 69/120; Barabara Brook, 53/120 and Mia Con-

don, 37/120. 100metre Rabbit target shoot; Wayne Facey, 108/120; John Dunkley, 108/120; Steve Hindmarch, 108/120; Niki Bolam, 107/120; David Coleman, 105/120; John Dean, 102/120; Brian Neilsen, 98/120; Norm Brook, 93/120; Mia Condon, 88/120; John Gorman, 84/120; Anthony Bratton, 83/120; Chris Parris, 73/120 and Barabara Brook, 68/120.

The Centre-fire rifle shoot was held after the Rim-fire shoot. There were 4 members in attendance: Steve Hindmarch, Chris Parris, Anthony Bratton and Norm Brook.

The next S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 caliber and

other rimfire rifle shoot (.22 magnum or.17HMR), The next Sunday shoot will be held on Sunday 17th November 2024 starting at 10am.The next Wednesday shoot will be on Wednesday 20th November 2024 starting at 2pm. The Centre-fire rifle shoots start at 2pm after the Rimfire shoots on Sunday, Centre fire shoots start at 2pm, names in by 1-30pm. The next shoot for the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting clay’s will be this Sunday November 10, this shoot will be a 100 target field shoot starting at 10am. If wet a five stand shoot will be held. Follow Forbes Sporting Shooters on Facebook for updates.

Tony Osborne congratulates winner of the T and M Tyres competition, Al Phillips.

PHOTO: Tara Shaw

FPS AFL team is kicking goals

Forbes Public School’s AFL team is celebrating successes in the PSSA knock-out and Paul Kelly Cup, as western region finalists in both competitions.

The team travelled to Blacktown to compete in the Paul Kelly Cup regional final gala day on July 29.

This consisted of other regional champions from western NSW,The Blue Mountains, South-west and Western Sydney.

FPS were to play three pool games for the day, to qualify for the semi-finals.

The first game was against Blackwell PS.

They kicked an early goal that put the FPS boys on the back foot.

The boy adjusted and dominated field position for the remainder of the game but unfortunately were only able to kick behinds and were narrowly defeated.

The second game was against North Rocks PS.

Fired up, the FPS boys were able to freely kick goals and ran away with the game.

The final pool game was against Currans Hill PS, FPS in control of the game for a comfortable win.

The success in the pool games enabled FPS to progress to the semi-final where they came up against Wycliffe Christian School.

The boys were under a lot of pressure early on, howev-

er, they managed to defend well and only conceded two goals.

In the second half they lifted and dominated field position, kicking two goals to draw level.

Late in the game they had some good opportunities to kick away, but unfortunately missed, kicking two behinds

which kept the game close. Thankfully, it was enough for the boys to progress to the final against Hammondville PS.

The boys played out of their skins during the game. They controlled territory but unfortunately, kicked a number of behinds. FPS led the game right up

until the final minute, when a Hammondville goal gave them a narrow lead.

Although disappointed, the Forbes team showed excellent sportsmanship.

Jack Pointon was named player of the match and received the game ball, congratulations Jack!

The Paul Kelly Cup fol-

Forbes students on the ball in tough regional tennis final

By FORBES PUBLIC SCHOOL

In an electrifying conclusion to the Western Region Tennis Knockouts, the Forbes Public School tennis team showcased resilience and tenacity to finish as runners-up in a hard-fought final.

Despite facing formidable opponents, they demonstrated remarkable skill, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the match.

From the outset, it was clear that the competition would be intense.

The opening singles matches were a testament to our team’s dedication and hard work.

Each player fought valiantly, delivering powerful serves, precise volleys, and strategic plays that kept the spectators on the edge of their seats.

At the conclusion of the singles games we were level at 2-all and the doubles matches proved to be equally thrilling.

Our pairs hit some well-coordinated plays and demonstrated a deep understanding of each other’s strengths and strategies. Their communication and synergy were on full display, as they executed intricate plays and fought back from challenging positions.

In the end, while we fell just short of claiming the championship title (53), our team’s journey to the final and their performance on the day were nothing short of inspiring. They displayed the heart, skill, and perseverance that define true champions.

As runners-up, they have set a high standard for future competitions and have proven that they can compete with the best.

We congratulate the FPS team for their outstanding effort and commend them for their dedication.

This runner-up finish is a testament to their hard work, and we look forward to seeing them continue to achieve great success in the seasons to come.

We extend a heartfelt thank you to Peter and Sophie Clifton and Trevor Toole for generously dedicating their time to train the team each week.

We also greatly appreciate Mrs Stitt, Mrs Webb and all the parents for ensuring the players got to and from training sessions and games.

there was a strong breeze that was favouring one end and would have an impact on each game.

The first game was against Orana Heights PS. With the wind in the first half the boys were able to kick two goals and restrict Orana Heights to zero.

In the second half the ball spent most of the time in the back line, but with a bit of hard work the boys were able to score a goal against the wind and win the game.

The second game was against the combined team of triallers.

The first half was close with Forbes PS ahead at half time. Unfortunately the boys were tired after back to back games and were unable to match the energy level of their opponents, resulting in a close defeat.

In the final match of the day Forbes PS played West Wyalong PS this was a really close game with both teams scoring goal-for-goal.

lowed the PSSA Western AFL final in Parkes, where three teams were competing for the title of western champions: West Wyalong PS, Orana Heights PS and Forbes PS.

There was also a mixed team of students from other schools that were trialling for the Western team. It was a sunny day but

The boys never gave up but were narrowly defeated by West Wyalong.

Despite some disappointment, all our boys showed exceptional sportsmanship. Congratulations Leo Dwyer and Max Pointon on their selection in the Western AFL team and Arlie Gunn who was named as an emergency. By FORBES PUBLIC SCHOOL

Trainer’s winning run around the region’s race tracks

By COLIN HODGES

The win by Mrs Bull at Dubbo on Saturday gave local trainer Connie Greig winners at five different venues in the space of 12 days.

Clever Cookie won at Orange followed by Real Salty (Harden), Nevada Showgirl (Mudgee) and I’m Scarlett (Quirindi) before Mrs Bull after a solitary win and 18 placings from 32 starts broke through to win at Dubbo.

Taking prizemoney earnings to over $110,000, Mrs Bull (Mikayla Weir, $4.80 favourite) tackled the leader Slush Fund (Chelsea Hillier, $5.50) in the straight and after a stirring battle won by a half head with Ms Reeves (Siena Grima, $7.50) almost three lengths away third in the 1300 metres Southlakes Estate Benchmark 58 Handicap.

Enjoying the Spring racing atmosphere, thousands were trackside to see an all Dubbo finish in the opening event, the 2200 metres MAAS Group Holdings Western Eagle Benchmark 58 Handicap.

Trained by Dar Lunn, Hot Gospel (Adrian Layt, $5) reached the lead then lasted to beat the Garry Lunn trained Raiding (Siena Grima, $4.40) by a half head with a half length to Nevada Showgirl (Andrew Banks, $6) from the Connie Greig stable.

Garry Lunn later won the 1600 metres A1 Earthwork & Comet Equipment Class 1 & Maiden Plate with Ain’t She

Swell owned by Peter Harrow and partners.

Amongst the tailenders in the big field, Ain’t She Swell (Siena Grima, $4.60) produced a powerful finish to win by a half neck from Autumn Song (Clayton Gallagher, $3.50).

Local trainer Michael Mulholland followed his second with Autumn Song with a good win by Jet Empress in the 1000 metres Macquarie Geotechnical Benchmark 66 Handicap. Raced by Mulholland in partnership with Kel Turner, Jet Empress (Shayleigh Ingelse, $2.50 favourite) advanced to four wins and three placings when coming from off the pace to beat Gidgee Guy (Ellen Hennessy, $41).

Yet another close finish when the Brett Thompson, Gulgong trained Hammering Away (Jake Pracey-Holmes, $6 to $5.50) arrived in time to beat Prince Of Sepang (Shannen Llewellyn, $3.10 favourite) by a head with the leader Quick Onyx (Clayton Gallagher, $4.20) two lengths away in the 1200m Hello Sport Class 1 Handicap.

Other winners were the Lou Mary Scone trained Open Pearly Gates (Mikayla Weir, $1.45 to $1.35 fav.) and Magic Forest (Mathew Cahill, $4) trained at Goulburn by Danielle Seib.

Warren has been promoting the Cotton Cup meeting with “Frock Up, Suit Up and Show Up to the Randwick Of The West” and has organised a host of attractions for Sunday.

Forbes Public School AFL representatives (back) Joc, Maxy, Anderson, Van, Hamish, Cameron (middle) Declan, Arlie, Mac, Ari, Eddie, Jack B, Cruze (front) Harry, Leo, Max P, Nate, Max M, Jack P.

PHOTO: Supplied

Forbes Public Schools tennis team members Lachlan, Will, Ivy and Charlie.

PHOTO: Supplied

Cooper wins golf’s Nissan Classic from big field of competitors

DUBBO’S Cooper Giddings has won Forbes’ annual Nissan golf Classic from a field that included visitors from 15 clubs.

Sunday’s Classic stroke event had a field of 136, including ladies, with 54 visitors.

President Tony Cogswell welcomed all the visitors and thanked Frank Spice Nissan, the Forbes Shire Council, and the other sponsors that help make the event possible.

Prizes were offered for Scratch, Handicap and Stableford across three grades in the men and one division in the ladies.

Giddings holds the Nissan Classic Trophy with a 68 on the day. It was the back-9 where he excelled with ‘trouble free’ golf and managed birdies on the 13th, 15th and 18th holes.

A-Grade Scratch runner-up was John Betland with 71.

He too was ‘on fire’ on the back-9: three-under after seven holes but an untimely double-bogey on the 17th and bogey on the 18th meant he slipped back.

■ Full story and results, inside

Rachel Grimmond powers forward for Lachlan Under 14s in their home game against Goannas while (inset) Kitarna Atkinson is on the fly for the undefeated

It’s finals time

Lachlan District to field three junior teams in Saturday’s semis

CALLING all supporters, Lachlan District Rugby League’s juniors will contest the finals of the western women’s rugby league competition, kicking off this weekend.

The Under 12s team drawn from Forbes, Parkes and Condobolin have finished the season minor premiers, undefeated, with a win last weekend.

Lachlan travelled to Coonamble to take on the Cougars on Saturday, finishing their season with a 14-22 victory over their hosts.

Our try-scorers included Ivy Jones and Pearl Karatiana, with successful conversions by Zoe Field, Rubie Haworth and Jinxi Piggot.

They’ll now take on Goannas in the semi-final at Orange’s Pride Park this Saturday, with kick-off scheduled for 9.30am.

Lachlan 14s had a narrow 2420 loss to Cougars but head into the finals series second on the competition ladder.

Tries in the final round to winger Kelise Dargin, prop Ka-

tie Galvin, lock Laila Hartwig and second rower Sarah Price, with Rachel Grimmond and Galvin converting two of the tries.

Our 14s now face Vipers in the semi-finals, with kick off scheduled for 10.30am at Orange’s Pride Park.

Lachlan’s Under 16s are also finals contenders, securing second place on the ladder with a 14-24 win over Cougars in Round 7 of the short Spring competition.

Tries were scored by number three Matilda Stitt, 20 Kailei Coe, second-rower Bailey McAneney, captain and five eight Ruby Jones and lock Georgia Cameron. Their semi-final is scheduled for 1pm and they’re coming up against Panorama Platypi.

In the opens, Woodbridge meet competition heavyweights Panorama Platypi after a costly in the semi-finals while Goannas meet Vipers.

Lachlan and the Cougars missed out.

Lachlan Under 12s.

A-Grade Scratch Champion Cooper Giddings of Dubbo with sponsor Michael Spice. PHOTO: Supplied