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Future’s bright

First in State among results to celebrate for our graduating Class of 2024

THE future looks bright for Forbes’ Class of 2024, with our Year 12 graduates celebrating the release of HSC results before Christmas.

From Red Bend Catholic College, Freya Hooper placed rst in the State in Primary Industries and was congratulated by Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car at an awards presentation in Sydney on Tuesday.

Primary Industries is a pracbased agriculture course Freya enjoyed.

She’s now planning to study Ag Science at CSU Wagga Wagga with a view to continuing in the agricultural sector, hopefully something livestock based.

Classmate Harry Whitty placed h in NSW in the course.

Dux of the College is Sam Gould, who achieved an impressive ATAR of 94.25.

“Sam’s consistent e ort and dedication to his studies have set a wonderful example to his peers,”

Red Bend principal Stephen Dwyer said.

Nine students achieved ATARs in the 90s with congratulates on this achievement going to Steven Su, Grace Dwyer Mulligan, Lauren House, Vienna Farrell, Amelie Kerr, Nicholas Gascoigne, Jessica Mckenzie and Isabel Brown.

Jess and Grace were among those who joined their classmates at celebrations at the College on Wednesday.

Jess plans to study a Bachelor of Law at the University of New England in 2025.

Grace will be heading for Syd-

FHS Dux is on her way

FORBES High School Dux Isabella Brown has already taken the rst steps on her 2025 pathway.

Isabella’s excellent HSC results and ATAR have secured her place to study physiotherapy through Charles Sturt University, but she’ll be doing most of the study online as she’s just started work at Rise Physiotherapy Group as an allied health assistant as well.

Work experience at the local business led Isabella to discover her passion for physiotherapy, which she’s looking forward to pursuing.

“I just love the variety of it,” she said.

“Being with people, talking to people, building relationships and helping them - it’s really my passion.”

Isabella thanked her principal Kathleen Maksymczuk, who also took her advanced English class, and her Forbes High teachers for their support through her high school studies.

Forbes High School was incredibly proud of all students at their achievements in the HSC, Mrs

Red Bend principal Stephen Dwyer with Jess Mckenzie and Grace Dwyer Mulligan who achieved ATARs in the 90s and Freya Hooper who came first in primary industries.

App makes planning Elvis trip easy

For the first time in Parkes Elvis Festival history, festival goers will be able to customise their own programs from their phone.

The Parkes Elvis Festival app launched on Wednesday, January 8.

Events, Attraction and Sponsorship Coordinator, Kassidy Martin, said the app would allow people to have access to the program on the go.

“The app has come about as part of our funding agreement with Destination New South Wales,” Kassidy said.

“We have a three year partnership with them, they are one of our strategic partners and as part of that they are funding us delivering this app.”

The Parkes Elvis Festival app will allow Elvis enthusiasts to access the program, making it easier to select what events and artists they would like to see and on what day.

“The app breaks down the festival program by time so you can make sure you’re not doubling up or missing anything.

“We’re picturing it as ‘the program in your pocket’ and it just means that you’ll be able to create your own personalised program while you’re on the go.”

The new app will also allow you to take look at and get directions to the different venues offering Elvis entertainment.

The app also provides up to date pop up messaging allowing the ability to provide alerts and updates.

“We know that logging into an app stops some people from downloading apps so luckily you won’t actually have to log into this app to be able to use it but you will still be able to save what shows and events you would like to attend.

“It will be specific to your actual phone,” Kassidy added.

The Parkes Elvis Festival app is now available for download on the App Store for Apple users and on Google Play for Android users to make navigating this year’s Parkes Elvis Festival that little more easier.

Join the festival fun

WHAT’S ON in and around Forbes

PARKES ELVIS FESTIVAL

January 8-12

Celebrating its 32nd year, the Parkes Elvis Festival is back again with feature artists, Cote Deonath, Emilio Santoro and Riley Jenkins. The theme for the festival is Easy Come, Easy Go and there will be non-stop entertainment in both Parkes and Forbes. Check out the Parkes Elvis Festival website or app to view the full program.

AMAZING FORBES STREET BREAKFAST

Friday, January 10

Elvis Festival-goers in Forbes can enjoy a relaxed breakfast from 7am in the heart of Templar Street. This free event will feature live entertainment from Paul Sun Duo and Elvis Roberts. ‘Ray of Elvis’ is back by popular demand and don’t miss some swing dancing fun with Sydney Swing Katz.

BIG SUMMER 2025

January 13 to 16

Big Summer is an epic four day holiday program for primary aged school children, welcoming kids from years one to seven as of 2025. Big summer will be held at Forbes Baptist Church at 7 Attlee St. The program will run from 9am to 2pm for the four days. $10 per child for the four days or $25 for three or more children. BYO recess, lunch, water bottle and enclosed shoes. Register through trybooking.com (or scan the QR code).

INDOOR INFLATABLES

January 15

Get out of the heat and enjoy modular play, jumping castles and in atable games!

There are three sessions, starting 10am, 11am and midday, and these are free but you must register online through Forbes Shire Council www.forbes.nsw.gov.au

Please note children must be school aged to attend this event and do not need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian, this is in line with Council’s Child Safety Policy and Procedures.

WANDERERS SOCCER CLINIC

Tuesday, January 21

Looking for the perfect way to keep your young footballer active and entertained these holidays? The Wanders will be hosting a school holiday clinic at the Forbes Botanical Gardens Sporting Complex. A clinic will

www.forbesadvocate.com.au

Visitors are rocking and rolling into the region and Forbes can join in the fun of the Elvis Festival on Friday morning right in our own town centre. The Amazing Forbes Street Breakfast has become a Friday morning favourite for Festival-goers and it’s on again from 7am to 11am on January 10. It all happens in Templar Street, in the heart of Forbes CBD, so you can grab a great coffee and breakfast and enjoy free live enter-

tainment through the morning. There’s a great line-up for the music lovers starring Paul Sun Duo, Elvis Roberts and Ray of Elvis, then the Sydney Swing Katz return to light up the dance floor. Forbes Arts Society is holding an exhibition of art works at the Forbes Town Hall in Harold Street throughout the festival, opening Wednesday right through to Sunday. The Elvis-inspired exhibition will be open 10am - 4pm each day.

be held from 9am to 12pm for ages 5-8 and an a ernoon clinic will be held for ages 9-12 from 1pm to 4pm. Scan the QR code on the yer to register.

SILENT DISCO

Tuesday, January 21

Don’t miss out on the Silent Disco at the Forbes Youth Centre. This Forbes Youth Action Team holiday event is free and popcorn, fairy oss and drinks are provided, but you do need to register! The ve to 10-year-olds join the party from 5-6pm with 11 years and older taking the dance oor from 6.30pm to 8pm. More information and registrations on-

JOURNALISTS

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ADVERTISING

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line through Forbes Shire Council’s website forbes.nsw.gov.au

AUSTRALIA DAY COMMUNITY BREAKFAST

Sunday, January 26

The annual Australia Day community breakfast will be held from 8am to 10am located on the picturesque Lake Forbes at Lions Park. This event includes the Rotary Citizenship Awards and will kick o the community celebrations on Australia Day. The o cial ceremony of the event will be held at 9:15am. Gold coin donations to Rotary Forbes are welcomed.

cgambrill@midwestmedia.com.au

AUSTRALIA DAY FIREWORKS

Sunday, January 26

From 6pm food vendors will be at Lions Park on Australia with the event concluding with the annual reworks display o Battyes Bridge at 9pm. Come down to Lions Park with your family and friends and enjoy plenty of food options to choose from! BYO chair and picnic blanket.

EUGOWRA BOOTS AND BOWTIES BALL

Saturday, April 5

SAVE THE DATE: A fundraiser ball not to be missed presented by the Eugowra Public School P and C at the Eugowra Showground.

Boost for Eugowra childcare

The Eugowra Community Children’s Centre has received over $400,000 from Evolution Mining to contribute to their new purpose-built day care centre.

The donation will help to fund the long day care room in the new centre, that is set to open in 2026.

This is an extremely important facility for Eugowra as the original centre was destroyed in the 2022 oods, and the busy centre

now operates out of a temporary location.

With more space there will be more children who can bene t from the centre as Eugowra continues to rebuild to be better than ever following the devastating oods.

The Eugowra Community Children’s Centre Management Committee said the donation would allow the community-owned service to continue to provide long

day care for working families in a new, purpose-built facility.

“We are absolutely certain that the impacts of this donation will be long lasting as we can now ensure that future generations of local families will have access to this critical service for many years to come,” they said.

Northparkes Operations General Manager Rob Cunningham said this was an outstanding project for Evolution to be involved in

and really reinforced the strong commitment to support communities where they operate.

“Childcare is a need throughout Australia, but Eugowra, as it recovers from the 2022 oods, is such a worthy recipient,” he said.

“We are thrilled to partner with the team at Eugowra Community Children’s Centre and we’re looking forward to seeing the nal results as the build progresses.”

Man charged with assaulting police on new year’s eve

A 24-year-old man has been charged with assaulting police after an alleged altercation in the early hours of the new year.

Police were called to reports of a fight in Webb Avenue early in the morning of January 1, Forbes police said, and allegedly found two males engaged in a physical altercation.

A 24-year-old was arrested on scene and conveyed to Parkes police station, where he was charged with three counts of assaulting police and one of resisting an officer in the execution of duty.

He was released on bail to face Forbes Local Court later this month.

In other police matters from over the festive period, police are investigating a break-in at the Forbes landfill.

Police said unknown persons had entered the site between 6am on December 25 and 5.30am on December 29, stealing items before leaving.

Police have CCTV from the site and are making enquiries into the matter. They are appealing for information about the theft of an Engel fridge from a vehicle parked on Underwood Street between 9am Christmas Eve and 10am on December 27.

Any information on any of these matters can be provided to Forbes police on 6853 9999 or at the station next to Victoria Park.

There are a number of ways you can report or provide information to police.

For non-urgent police assistance, reporting minor crime and general enquiries, you can contact the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.

Go online to https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/ and click the report online button, or phone 1800 333 000.

State releases its 20-year plan for Lachlan Valley water security

Improving water conservation and leak reduction, potential expansion of the regional water supply grid and broadening ood risk management part of a 20year strategy for water security for the Lachlan region.

The NSW Government has launched the Lachlan Regional Water Strategy for Forbes, Parkes, Cowra, Weddin and other communities across the Lachlan for the next 20 years and beyond.

“This is a strategy for the whole Lachlan community,” NSW Department of Climate Change, Environment, Energy and Water Executive Director of Regional Water Strategies Kaia Hodge said.

“We know water security is front of mind for these communities, as is preparing our water resources for future challenges and weather extremes, including droughts and oods.

“We’re working to meet these challenges, progressing an array of solutions that will best support the region.”

Actions in the strategy include:

Supporting towns and local water utilities to deliver water supply, urban water e ciency, water conservation and leakage reduction initiatives;

Supporting local councils to improve ood risk management;

Investigating the potential expansion of the regional water supply grid. Future work will also consider the outcomes of the Belubula Water Security Project Final Business Case, which the NSW Government is developing;

Improving groundwater knowledge and management;

Investigating upgrades and automation of existing weirs and structures in the mid and lower Lachlan to improve environmental water delivery; Increasing numbers of native and threatened sh by improving sh passage and installing screens at priority

sites to protect sh from irrigation pumps;

Working with industry to plan for, adapt to and mitigate against climate change by better understanding their needs, addressing systemic issues around water reliability, and leveraging climate model data to improve water management; Better integrating strategic land use and water planning;

Improving cultural outcomes and creating jobs in the water sector for Aboriginal people.

Ms Hodge said the strategy was backed by scienti c data and informed by listening to feedback from local govern-

ments, Aboriginal people, environmental and industry groups, water users and locals.

“This strategy is critical to supporting a strong local economy, maintaining a healthy river system, and delivering safer, more secure, resilient and reliable water supplies for the entire Lachlan for generations to come,” Ms Hodge said.

How strategy actions will be delivered is outlined in an implementation plan, available on the website at: https:// water.dpie.nsw.gov.au/ourwork/plans-and-strategies/ regional-water-strategies/ nal/lachlan-regional-waterstrategy/

Gum Bend at Condobolin.

PHOTO: Supplied

FHS students celebrating Band 5, Band 6 results in HSC

■ From page 1

Forbes High School student Grace Barbary also achieved a Band 6 in Korean Continuers which was studied through the NSW School of Languages.

The school has seen a steady improvement in results across all subjects.

The 2024 HSC student body worked collaboratively and consistently to perform well across all subject areas.

There were 12 Band 5 results across nine di erent subjects and this is testament to the support the students receive from the committed Forbes High School sta .

Many students have been successful in gaining university placements from Teaching to Physiotherapy, to Law and Forensic Science.

The school extends congratulations to all students who completed the Higher School Certi cate and leave Forbes High School with the skills to achieve in any endeavour that they commit themselves to in the future.

Congratulations, Red Bend

■ From page 1

Red Bend Catholic College students excelled across a wide range of subjects, with 37 Band 6 results (90 and above); 150 Band 5 results (marks of 80 to 90); and 206 Band 4 results (70 to 80).

All 73 Year 12 students who applied for university places have received o ers.

Twelve students engaged in 64 individual work experiences or work placements.

Eighteen students attended regular weekly work placements

and ve have secured full time employment or trainee / apprentice positions with their host employers.

Beyond academics, the Class of 2024 continued the proud Red Bend College traditions of contribution to artistic, cultural and sporting pursuits.

“We congratulate all students on their remarkable achievements and wish them every success in their future endeavours,” Mr Dwyer said.

“I would also like to extend my gratitude to our dedicated sta

whose guidance and support have enabled our students to reach their full potential and prepared them for the next stage of their journey.

“We are immensely proud of our students and all they have achieved and contributed to our college community.

“While we celebrate their academic success we also take great pride in knowing that our Year 12 cohort is leaving our College as individuals who embody the values of being ‘good Christians and good citizens’.”

Christian school has plenty to celebrate in milestone year

Parkes Christian School is celebrating another year of fantastic HSC results, with their Compressed Curriculum structure being of huge bene t to students, resulting in the best overall results for the school in its history.

Almost a quarter of all results across the HSC cohort were Band 5 or 6, which is an outstanding result.

Compressed Curriculum sees students sit three HSC subjects when they are in Year 11, followed by another three in Year 12.

This structure allows students to focus on fewer subjects at a time, with double the amount of class time provided for each subject. This intensive pattern of study means that students have far better recall of course content during their exams.

In their 10th year of delivering the HSC, the school is very proud of the results achieved by the 2024 cohort.

All students who applied for university Early Entry

schemes were successful, while other students have already moved into employment or traineeships.

Students achieved the highest percentage of Band 5 and 6 results in a single year for the school, coming in English Advanced and Extension, Agriculture, Community and Family Studies, Drama, Design and Technology, PDHPE and Physics.

Among the Year 12 students who completed their studies this year, Matilda Wilson performed very well in English, with an E3 in Extension 1, and receiving the highest mark ever awarded at PCS in the extremely challenging Extension 2 course.

Abigail Heard showcased her creative talents by adding to her Band 5 in Music last year by also receiving a Band 5 in Drama and an E3 in Extension 1 English.

Mitchell Unger also received a Band 5 in the same subject for his automated waterskiing winch design.

Marcus Moss was rewarded with a Band 5 for his innovative Board Game in Design and Technology, while

Georgina Greenland also received Band 5 in Community and Family Studies, while Xavier McDonald rounded out an excellent year for the Year 12 group with an E3 in Extension 1 English.

A number of Year 11 students have set themselves up for outstanding HSC success, especially Chloe Amery, Angelique Bland and Josh King who received either Band 5 or 6 results for all three of their subjects.

Chloe scored a Band 6 in Agriculture, and Band 5 in English Advanced and De-

sign and Technology, Angelique received the same results for English and Design and Technology, while also receiving a Band 6 for Drama, and Josh received a Band 5 for English Advanced and Physics, while doing brilliantly well to receive a Band 6 in Design and Technology.

Other Year 11 students to receive Band 5 results were Mia Baker (Community and Family Studies, and PDHPE), Oliver Mayo (Design and Technology), Addison Lewer (Community and Family Studies, and Drama) and Charli Gould (Drama)

These students will complete the second half of their HSC in 2025.

Stage 6 Coordinator Greg Ballantyne is thrilled.

“As a school we are really pleased for our HSC students. Their results are the product of many hours of hard work and dedication,” he said.

“Our entire cohort has done extremely well and managed the challenges of

the HSC so well. But more importantly they have all developed strong character and been able to achieve their goals.

“Every student who applied for early entry to university received an o er, maintaining our 100 per cent record over the past nine years.

“We work hard as a sta to give our students the best possible opportunities to succeed, so it is nice to see them taking those opportunities. But at the end of the day, it is the students who have done the hard work and need to take all the credit for their achievements.

“The thing I’m most pleased with is that every student seemed to be very happy throughout their HSC, enjoyed being at school, had time to pursue other interests and hobbies, and learned a lot about being people of good character and integrity. These are the things that will stay with them throughout their lives.”

Some of the members of the Red Bend Class of 2024 relieved and happy to gather back at the College a er the release of results in December.

Don’t throw those clothes in landfill, recycle them

Unwanted textiles will be saved from land ll thanks to a recycling initiative Forbes Shire Council has started.

The Council has partnered with Reuse Repurpose Recycle Australia in a 12-month trial to provide recycling bins for textiles at the Forbes Recycling and Waste Depot.

While residents are still encouraged to donate textiles to local op shops, the new bins at the waste depot/land ll will mean items not suitable for an op shop, such as damaged clothes can be recycled.

RRR Australia runs a program that keeps textiles out of land ll and will collect items placed in the textile recycling bins and reuse, recycle or repurpose them.

Good quality items are donated to charities, op shops and shelters to be reused, while items that cannot be reused are recycled and made into items such as blankets, throws, caravan and outdoor mats.

Poor quality items are repurposed and donated to the

Final

RSPCA, arts and cra s stores for o -cut material to be used, while damaged items are made into industrial rags.

All clothing (including damaged items), shoes and boots, blankets, towels, backpacks, handbags and material o cuts can be placed in the textile recycling bins.

Items that cannot be recycled include sheets, pillowcases, doonas, pillows and cushions, wet or soiled items and industrially stained items.

With the average Australian disposing of 23kg of textiles per year to land ll, Forbes Shire Council Mayor, Phyllis Miller OAM, said this program would save land ll space.

“Forbes Shire Council is committed to sustainability and this program will help preserve our land lls and ensure textiles stay in the circular economy,” she said.

Textiles can be recycled at the Forbes Recycling and Waste Depot during its trading hours, 8:30am – 5pm seven days.

call for

Do you know someone who has made an outstanding contribution to our community?

Now is the time to nominate them for this year’s Australia Day honours.

Forbes Shire Council will host a dinner on Saturday, January 25, recognising our Citizen of the Year, Senior Citizen of the Year (65 years and over) and Young Citizen of the Year (25 years and younger).

Regard will be given to nominees’ achievements in the year immediately prior to receipt of the award, as well as the past achievements, and ongoing con-

Mobile black spot funding available

It’s time to identify mobile phone black spots, with the opening of Round 8 of the Mobile Black Spot Program.

Riverina MP Michael McCormack is inviting feedback from Riverina constituents about where they would like to see improved mobile coverage.

“Round 8 of the Mobile Black Spot Program is now open for Mobile Network Operators and Mobile Network Infrastructure Providers to make applications,” Mr McCormack said.

“A total of $55 million is up for grabs under Round 8 for the purposes of co-funding projects to deliver new, resilient mobile coverage in regional and remote areas of Australia which are prone to natural disasters.

“As part of the application process, applicants are encouraged to consult with State, Territory and Local Governments, as well as local communities, to help ensure telecommunication infrastructure is delivered where it is needed most.”

To help with the process, Mr McCormack is calling for members of the public to contact his office with locations which they believe need better mobile connectivity.

“Such locations will be listed on the Mobile Blackspot Round 8 Project Noticeboard which will inform program applicants of areas in need for their application,” Mr McCormack said.

Australia Day award nominations

tribution to the Forbes Shire.

The selection criteria are:

 Demonstrated excellence in their eld

 Signi cant contribution to the Forbes Shire community

 An inspirational role model for the Forbes Shire community

Selection panels will also give consideration to the following in assessing and comparing nominations against the below criteria:

 Personal, academic and professional achievements – past, current and future

 Contribution in the relevant

Demonstrated commitment to Nominations close at 5pm on

You can nd the nomination form on the Forbes Shire Council website forbes.nsw.gov.au or visit

“Applications for Round 8 of the MBSP close on 30 April 2025, whilst the Project Noticeboard closes on February 7, 2025.

“I ask that any feedback regarding mobile blackspots and potential sites for improvements be sent to my office in a concise email before January 31, 2024.

 Future goals and likely impact

 Degree of di culty of the achievement and sacri ces made

 Previous awards and recognition

 Voluntary involvement

 Nature and length of activity or service

eld (how has nominee ‘given back’ of the Forbes Shire’s communities and/or economy

Completed forms can be emailed to community@forbes.nsw.gov.au or sent to Forbes Shire Council PO Box 333, Forbes NSW 2871.

Tickets to the awards night are free but must be booked online by January 17 through 123tix. com.au

“I look forward to hearing the community’s feedback and continuing to advocate for improved phone coverage in the Riverina.”

Feedback on locations which could benefit from improved mobile coverage should be emailed to michael. mccormack.mp@aph.gov.au

Project proposals on the Round 8 Project Noticeboard may also be submitted by local governments.

gov.au, posted to The General Manager, Forbes Shire Council, PO Box 333, Forbes NSW 2871 or delivered to 2 Court Street, Forbes. Tenders will be accepted until COB 31 January 2025. For further information please contact Council’s Manager Corporate Business on 6850

PHOTO: Forbes Shire Council

Christmas winners share

A total $20,000 in local shopping dollars was won in the lead up to Christmas, through the Evolution Mining Find it in Forbes Christmas promotion.

People shopping at businesses participating in the annual Forbes Business Chamber campaign had the chance to go in the draw to share in Why Leave Town cards valued from $500 to $5000. Forbes Business Chamber is delighted to announce the winners: Grace Loomes who shopped at Turners Furniture One; Marina Emery who shopped at Robb’s Jewellers; Linda Rout who shopped at Allure on Main; John Sweeney who booked the winning ticket while shopping at Terry Bros Carpet Court; Michelle Owen who shopped at Bernardi’s Marketplace; Name not to be disclosed 13/12/2024 Allure On Main; Sherylee Cowell who shopped at Undercover Sleepwear; Therese Gale who shopped at Bernardi’s Marktplace; Patricia Allen who shopped at Cahills Footwear; Kate Harris who shopped at The Book Dispensary; Denise Jelbart who shopped at Undercover Sleepwear; Paige Nicholson who shopped at Cahills Footwear; Pat Green who shopped at

$20,000

Allure on Main; Pat Caines who shopped at Undercover Sleepwear & Lingerie;

Jayden Scott who shopped at Allure on Main;

Jodie Bemberick who shopped at Euphoria Road;

Allison Armstrong who shopped at Little Extras Lifestyle;

Linda Merritt who shopped at Bernardi’s Marketplace; Andrew Gunn who shopped at Terry Bros Carpet Court; Leanne Shackell who shopped at Bernardi’s Marketplace.

Two more winners who elected names not to be disclosed picked up their winning tickets in the draw at Allure on main and The Book Dispensary.

Updated construction hours

Updates to the Construction Roster

Lachlan River Bridge

construction will ramp up to include every weekend from Saturday 18 January 2025 through to Sunday 25 May 2025. The intent of the change is to lessen the overall duration of works and noise impacts on the community.

Construction will occur daily during this period between the hours of 7am–6pm.

To ensure public safety, residents and passing motorists are urged to take care and observe all tra c management and signage around these work sites.

You’re welcome at Men’s Shed

Forbes Men’s Shed is here for our community: welcoming new members and giving back to Forbes a er a successful 2024.

The Men’s Shed enjoys great facilities on Union Street and there really is something for all to be involved in from furniture restoration to an impressive library.

Members have the chance to take up the tongs at a fundraiser barbecue or just enjoy company around the card table with Wednesday a ernoon card games every week.

One of their thriving endeavours is rewood and kindling, organised by Peter West, and thanks to the success of this venture in the past year they’ve been able to make a number of donations back into the community that has supported them so

well over the years.

Havannah House, CanAssist and Forbes hospital were all recipients of donations, and the Men’s Shed has also been able to support local schools.

Members are urging more men in the community to drop in and see them, and to consider becoming members.

Men’s Shed provides a place to catch up and be involved in the community.

Forbes Men’s Shed is open every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9am to 12.30pm.

But they also have a very popular cards a ernoon every Wednesday, from 1-1.30pm through to about 4.30pm.

They have facilities for metal work including welding, and carry out small re-

pairs as well as making wool tables.

Woodworking is another activity, they complete carpentry work with projects like making bird nesting boxes, repairing household furniture and renovating local outdoor seating.

They also cut and split rewood and bag kindling for local sale, and have a permanent garage sale with tools and other items during their open hours.

The walls are lined with bookshelves and their extensive library is available for borrowing, and it’s well utilised by members and community members.

New members are very welcome and anyone interested should just drop in any of the above mentioned times and chat to the people there.

Out-of-Hours Works –March 2025

Martinus Rail plan to undertake track works and related works on behalf of Inland Rail in the rail corridor of, Lachlan River Bridge during a statewide track possession.

Works will start from 6am on Saturday 22 March until 6pm on Monday 24 March 2025. These works will be continuous, including night works.

Community based projects (eg repairs to cupboards),

A very welcome guest arriving at the Forbes Business Chamber Christmas carnival.

Harley Stewart, John Bruce, Howard Smart, Brian Wilkie and Leo Butler with just a few of the items made by the Men’s Shed, including bird nesting boxes and croquet mallets.

John Bruce with the firewood, which is a thriving venture for the Men’s She and (inset)

Harley Stewart will help you find a good read in the expansive library.

Be aware of Summer bushfire risk

NEW South Wales has experienced mixed rainfall throughout winter and spring, and mean temperatures for April to October have been the third highest on record since 1910.

Due to existing dryness, above average temperatures, higher than normal grass fuel loads and a mixed rainfall outlook, areas of central northern and central southern NSW are predicted to see above normal fire potential this summer.

In some areas, rainfall hindered burning efforts and encouraged grass growth. Meanwhile, other areas received much lower rainfall than normal, leaving them dry and, in some cases, even droughtaffected.

While some parts of the State are forecast to receive more rain than usual this summer, this forecast could change.

This uncertainty, combined with forecasts for higher (than average) temperatures, means there is significant risk that the forecast rainfall will not address all the areas

that are currently experiencing dry conditions.

Areas around Deniliquin, Hillston, Walgett and Coonamble have higher than normal grass fuel loads. Grasses in these areas are already dry (cured) and are predicted to see above normal fire potential this summer.

Elsewhere in the State, existing conditions and a forecast for above

normal rainfall is expected to provide the usual fire risk.

Parts of southeast NSW (including the South Coast, Monaro and Southern Ranges) have seen lower than average rainfall over the past few months. There remains a danger that, if they do not see forecast rainfall, forests in these areas could become dry enough to fuel fast moving, damaging fires.

The Hazards Near Me NSW app provides information about local bush fires, fire danger ratings, fire bans and hazard reductions.

PHOTO: Supplied

Improved emergency apps available

It’s best to be prepared in case of natural disaster and emergency, and there are emergency information phone apps from the NSW Government that can help you take precautionary action.

Two apps in particular are regarded as potentially life-saving additions to your phone: the Hazards Near Me NSW app and the Emergency Plus app, both instantly available to download free through the website, nsw.gov.au/GetReadyNSW.

With information sourced directly from emergency service authorities, and replacing the previous Fires Near Me NSW app, the Hazards Near Me NSW app is a gateway to reliable emergency updates on bushfires and floods in regional areas.

in other areas west of the Great

loads remain

due to favourable growing conditions. If these grasses dry out and cure over summer, a combination of high fuel loads and cured grass could also pose a risk for quickly moving, intense grass fires, particularly during middle to late summer.

The Hazards Near Me NSW app provides information about local bush fires, fire danger ratings, fire bans and hazard reductions.

If you are caught up in an emergency, time and location accuracy are critical, which is where the Emergency Plus app comes in.

This app gives your precise location to emergency services, using three unique words and a tool to help you ring Triple Zero quickly.

Similarly,

Dividing Range, grass fuel

high

Existing dryness, above average temperatures, grass fuel loads and a mixed rainfall outlook are contributing to bushfire risk this Summer.

PHOTO: Supplied

6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Beyond Paradise. 1.30 MOVIE: Casablanca. (1942) 3.15 Lucy Worsley: Agatha Christie Mystery Queen. 4.15 Joanna Lumley’s Great Cities Of The World. 5.00 Eat The Invaders. 5.30 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. 6.00 Brian Cox: Life Of A Universe. 6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Beyond Paradise. 8.30 Vera. 10.00 Shetland. Final. 11.00

6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 2.00 Better Homes. 3.00 Escape To The Country. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Bondi Vet. 5.30 Horse Racing. Gold Coast Magic Millions Raceday. 7.00 Dog Patrol. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 9.30 I Escaped To The Country. 10.30 Australia’s Amazing Homes. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.05 ER. 2.50 Not Going Out. 3.20 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. 4.05 Speechless. 4.25 MythBusters. 5.20 Amazing Spaces. 6.05 Making Of David Attenborough’s Natural History Museum Alive. 7.00 Spicks And Specks. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Would I Lie To You? 8.30 Melbourne Comedy Festival: The Gala. 10.35 Late Programs.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show Summer Series. 12.00 Border Security: America’s Front Line. 12.30 Surf Patrol. 1.00 Horse Racing. Gold Coast Magic Millions Raceday. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: International. 7.30 MOVIE: Back To The Future Part III. (1990) Michael J. Fox. 10.00 MOVIE: Mercury Rising. (1998) Bruce Willis. 12.25 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 American Pickers. 4.00 Desert Collectors. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 Aussie Salvage Squad. 8.30 Heavy Tow Truckers Down Under. 9.30 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 10.30 Deep Water Salvage. 11.30 Late Programs.

Billionaire

(2016) 8.55 Fresh

9.40 Speechless.

10.40

International. Night 5. 11.00 MOVIE: It’s Complicated. (2009) 1.30 MOVIE: Carry On Regardless. (1961) 3.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules: High Stakes. 12.15 Big Brother. 1.50 My Kitchen Rules. 3.45 Jordie, Sam & Ted’s Adventures. 4.15 Bondi Vet. 5.15 A Moveable Feast. 5.45 Britain’s

6.00 Morning Programs. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra Summer. 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 Find My Beach House Australia. 1.30 MOVIE: Problem Child. (1990) 3.10 MOVIE: Everything, Everything. (2017) 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Country House Hunters Australia. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: Rams. (2020) Sam Neill. 9.50 MOVIE: Just A Farmer. (2024) Leila Mcdougall. 11.50 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.20 Jabba’s Movies School Holiday Special. 12.50 Rebel Wilson’s Pooch Perfect. 2.10 A Moveable Feast. 3.05 Blow Up. 4.10 Britain’s Got Talent. 5.25 MOVIE: A Dog’s Purpose. (2017) 7.30 MOVIE: The Boss Baby: Family Business. (2021) 9.40 MOVIE: Forgetting Sarah Marshall. (2008) 12.00 Late Programs.

Officially

I Escaped To The Country. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Rosemary & Thyme. 8.30 McDonald And Dodds. 10.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 NFL. NFL Playoffs. Wild Card Round.

Australia Junior. 5.10 Superworm. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.35 Moominvalley. New. 8.00 The Secret Life Of Our Pets. 8.50 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.35

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) It’s a good time to take a muchneeded break from your recent hectic schedule and spend some time in quieter surroundings. Important news could arrive early next week.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) The Taurean traits of reliability and thoroughness could be well-tested when decision-makers consider your proposals and/or requests. Be prepared to answer some probing questions.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) A sudden attack of boredom leaves you with some tasks undone. It’s OK to take a short respite, but get back to work by week’s end so that you have time for other projects.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Avoid prejudging a situation just because it looks bad. Facts could emerge that can make your position uncomfortable, to say the least. Meanwhile, a relative has interesting news to share with you.

7.00 Tennis.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 10 Minute Kitchen. 11.30 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 12.00 Australia By Design: Innovations. 12.30 Exploring Off The Grid. Return. 1.30 The Yes Experiment. 2.00 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures. Final. 3.00 Good Chef Bad Chef. 3.30 My Market Kitchen. 4.00 All 4 Adventure. 5.00 10 News First. 6.30 The Dog House Australia. 8.30 The Dog House. 9.30 Ambulance

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Helping Hands Summer Series. 10.30 My Favorite Martian. 11.10 Edgar Wallace Mysteries. 12.30 MOVIE: Ski Party. (1965) 2.30 Tennis. Adelaide International. Day 6. 6.00 Tennis. Adelaide International. Night 6. 9.00 MOVIE: The Sentinel. (2006) 11.15 MOVIE: The Elephant Man. (1980) 1.45 Late Programs.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) This is a good time to begin reassessing some of your recent decisions about your long-range goals to see if they still have merit. In addition, spend more time with loved ones this weekend.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) An unsettled situation at home or on the job early in the week could drain your energy levels, making it difficult to get your work done on schedule. But things improve by midweek.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A temporary setback could give you time to go over your plans to find weaknesses that you might have overlooked before. Also, a romantic getaway with a special person is favored this weekend.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Professional and personal situations benefit you once you set a positive tone in getting things off to a good start. Honest dialogue smooths over any occasional display of balkiness.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A problem with workplace colleagues or family members seems to defy even your sage counsel. But be patient. Your words will eventually lead to a resolution.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Don’t just wait out an unexpected and unexplained delay in your career move. You could gain added respect if you ask why it happened and what you can do to move things along.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Although your workplace strategies are usually accepted, you could be challenged by someone who isn’t so favorably impressed. Be prepared to defend your positions.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Your friendship circle expands with new people coming into your life at this time. Welcome them warmly, but don’t neglect cherished longtime personal relationships.

Homegrown in the planning

By MARG APPLEBEE CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE

It is so fantastic to have our wonderful visitors in town for the Parkes Elvis Festival!

Planning is in full swing for our Homegrown Parkes events on Saturday, 29 March and Saturday, 11 October 2025.

The 29 March event will coincide with the National Corvette Convention and the Masters Games in Parkes, which will provide an opportunity for visitors to ll their Saturday in Parkes with plenty of good food and local produce!

A er Homegrown Parkes winning the Community Spirit and Inclusion Award at the Keep Australia Beautiful Tidy Towns NSW Awards, it is tting that when Parkes hosts the Tidy Towns Awards in October, that we share our event with visitors to our Shire as part of the weekend event. We have been thrilled with the response from the community,

stallholders and food vendors for our October 2024 Homegrown Parkes event. Thank you for your feedback!

Homegrown Parkes is an opportunity for local and regional businesses who are processing, repurposing, sewing, propagating or producing fabulous local products to share their skill and products with the community.

I would encourage potential stallholders to submit an Expression of Interest early as we have already received over 30 applications. You can nd the link to the registration via our facebook page or on our website….or here.

Applications are reviewed by our Homegrown Parkes Committee to ensure that they t with the ethos of the Homegrown Parkes event.

All stallholders and food vendors are required to provide $20 million insurance Certi cate of Currency and food vendors need to supply their Food Safety Certicate.

We want to keep the event as ac cessible as possible, particularly for small stallholders. The fee of $30 will assist with covering the costs to sustain the event.

Demonstrations will again be one of the highlights of the next event on Saturday, 29 March 2025, highlighting processes for using locally produced food and prod ucts with the aim of encouraging locals to have a go and grow in their own backyard.

Check out our last column of December 2024 for ideas to be in volved in Crop Swap at the event.

The Homegrown Parkes Com mittee, is made up of members of Central West Lachlan Land care, Parkes Community Arts and Parkes Shire Council, are looking forward to delivering two fabu lous, encouraging and inspira tional events in 2025.

For further information on this article, please go to www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org, twitter, facebook or Instagram @cwllandcare

First sheep sale of the year sees 37,000 yarded

MONDAY’S CATTLE SALE

Yarding 471 (down 470)

The rst sale for 2025 saw agents yard 471 head.

Quality was mixed but fair with some handy lines of nished cattle o ered along with the plainer types.

The usual buyers were present and competing in a market that opened strongly showing a 15 to 25c/kg increase from the previous sale.

Yearling steers to feed sold from 320c to 413c/kg. Heavyweight nished lines to processors received from 340 to 394c/kg.

The heifer portion was also strong with feeders paying from 340 to 372c/kg.

Thursday, January 9 sees Forbes’ Central West Livestock Exchange host the annual first cross ewe sale starting at 10am. Agent Adam Chudleigh is pictured getting the successful event under way in 2024.

Those to processors received from 300c to 350c/kg.

Heavy steers and bullocks ranged in price from 338 to

367c/kg with grown heifers reaching 348c/kg.

Some handy runs of heavy cows sold from 290c to 310c with plainer types receiving from 260c to 288c/kg.

TUESDAY’S SHEEP SALE

Yarding 37,300 (up 15,100)

The rst sale for the year saw agents yard 37,300 head. There was 28,850 lambs penned and quality was fair but mixed with some good lines of trade and heavyweights o ered along with the plainer secondary types.

The usual contingent of buyers were present and competing in a market that was easier than the previous sale but still started the year

strongly. Trade weight lambs 20-24kg sold from $148 to $212/head.

Heavy lambs to 26kg received from $196 to $228 with extra heavies ranging from $223 to $293/head.

Carcase prices averaged from 800c to 850c/kg for the better lambs with secondary types averaging less.

Mutton numbers were made up of mostly Merinos and quality was mixed.

Prices were also strong with heavy sheep averaging from 510 to 580c/kg Carcase weight.

Merino ewes sold from $70 to $206/head.

Crossbred ewes received from $55 to $170 with Dorper

ewes reaching $168/head.

- Market reports from MLA’s National Livestock Reporting Agency

FRIDAY’S PIG SALE

A heavier yarding of sows saw prices improve 10c per kg. Boars dropped 10c kg, bacon was in short supply with prices improving $30 to $40 mainly on the heavier pigs. Pork was also in short supply and prices also improved $20 to $30 per head.

A good run of suckers, pigs mainly on the lighter weights saw a rm market consistent with the last sale of 2024.

- From VC REID SMITH LIVESTOCK

Contact us:

Scott Reid: 0428 521 481 admin@vcrlivestock.com.au

Murray Reid: 0488 432 207 vcrlivestock.com.au

Sam Smith: 0448 847 017 VC Reid Smith Livestock Office:

Finn and Mitch Miles at the Dirty Gloves stall at the October 2024 Homegrown with some of the magnificent coloured kangaroo paw plants for sale at their stall.

Colour run fun to end school year

FORBES Public School is a positive behaviour school.

Sta focus on strengths to build student self-con dence and explicitly teach rules and expectations to ensure children can succeed across all settings.

Teachers and SLSOs frequently give out blue cards to acknowledge positive choices and reinforce the values safe, respectful and responsible. Individuals post half their blue card in a tub for the chance to win a Friday slushie.

The other half goes in a tall, clear tube and goes up and up until it reaches the top - then it is reward time!

The school receives a whole-day of fun like: PJ Day, disco, movie and popcorn, footy colours dress-up day, swap playgrounds, mini Olympics or water fun day.

They ended the year with a colour run where students put on sunnies and ran through the Fire Brigade’s hoses, ew down slip-n-slides, manoeuvred around an obstacle course, dunked in the blow-up pools, dodged wet sponges, were squirted by water guns, jumped over hurdles and of course got colourful corn our on them.

The students had so much fun - as you can see in these photos!

By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK

EVERY year on November 14, St Laurence’s Parish School Forbes celebrates the Feast Day of St Laurence O’Toole.

This year the school celebrated in honour of their Patron Saint with a whole school Mass in the St Laurence Parish Church.

“It’s a special day for our school,” Ms Donna Pavey said.

In 1162 Laurence O’Toole

became the rst Irish Archbishop of Dublin.

During his time as Archbishop, in 1190, the Normans landed in Ireland and in the following year they besieged Dublin under their leader, Strongbow.

Laurence met Strongbow to arrange a peace but the Normans attacked while the talks were happening.

They seized the city and began killing the citizens and

looting their houses.

Laurence saved the lives of many by the sheer force of his presence and carried the bodies of others in his own arms to be buried.

In spite of many setbacks he was to continue his e orts as peacemaker to the end of his life.

On Feast Day students at St Laurence’s who exhibit the qualities of a peacemaker are recognised.

One student in each class

Celebrations at St Laurence’s

who works hard to maintain positive relationships, realises when there is an injustice against others and respects the opinions of others is awarded a peacemaker award.

Bishop Columba presented this year’s peacemaker awards to Amity Dunn, Georgia Wood, Ryan Davey, Ivey Rousell, Aliyah Kaptingei, Ella McConnell, Molly Betland, Edith Toohey, Indie Acheson, Helaina Nixon-Tamblyn, Austin Smyth,

Billie Edwards and Milarnie Hanley.

A er Mass the whole school celebrated with families with open classrooms and a St Laurence’s community gathering with cake, to mark the occasion.

In the St Laurence Parish Church is a painting of St Laurence O’Toole with the Forbes township and the St Laurence church behind St Laurence which was painted by Sisters in Chile.

6342 1044

classifieds@ forbesadvocate.com.au

Classifieds

By 10am Wednesday OPEN HOURS

DYKES

Ella (Denny) of Gerringong

Passed away peacefully on Wednesday 25th December 2024. Beloved wife of the late Cecil. Dearly loved mother and mother-in-law of Heather and Ray, Andrea, Jennifer and Vince. Much loved Nanna of her grandchildren Kristi, Shannon, Nathan, Deahna, Lisa, Brenton, Claire, and her 17 great grandchildren. Ella will be sadly missed by her loving family and many dear friends.

Aged 86 Years

Forever in Our Hearts

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Ella’s funeral service to be held at H.Parsons Funeral Home, 125 Manning Street Kiama on Friday, 10th January at 12pm. Following the service the funeral will proceed to Gerringong Cemetery. Those unable to attend are invited to view her service via the link below https://streaming.naoca.com. au/e/f950db63-bf07-4ee3-abd018c68c44902d?pin=5644

SSAA news: Summer events

By TONY BRATTON

Results of the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting shooters rim re and Centre- re shield shoot on Sunday December 29, 2024.

The rim re scores were: Kris Gorman105/120; John Dunkley, 104/120; Jamie Mitton, 102/120; David Mitton, 100/120; John Gorman, 98/120; Wayne Facey. 97/120; Daniel Martin, 96/120; Di Fleming, 94/120; Steve Hindmarch, 94/120; Barbara Brook, 87/120; Norm Brook, 84/120; Anthony Bratton, 81/120 and John Dean, 71/120. Steve Hindmarch, leads in this shield with a total 99-107-102-94 nal total 402/480.

Centre- re score was: Steve Hindmarch, 84; total for centre re shield and winner was Steve Hindmarch, with a totals of 77-84-98-82 total 341/480;

Results of the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre rim re ri e shoot on Wednesday January 1, 2025.

25metre Fly target shoot: Bruce Dent 200/200; Wayne Facey 200/200; Norm Brook

199/200; and David Coleman, 182/200.

50metre Fox target shoot: Bruce Dent 120/120; Wayne Facey 114/120; David Coleman 112/120; and Norm Brook 111/120.

75metre Rabbit target shoot: Wayne Facey 116/120; Bruce Dent 100/120; Norm Brook 97/120; and David Coleman 93/120.

100metre Bear target shoot: Wayne Facey 117/120; Bruce Dent 107/120; David Coleman104/120; and Norm Brook 95/120.

The weather was hot with a light breeze from the north east at 7 kph and a temperature of 37 degrees.

The range o cer was Anthony Bratton. Scorer was Wayne Facey.

Results of the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre rim re ri e shoot held on Sunday January 5, 2025.

25metre Fox target shoot: John Gorman 280/280; Courtney Gorman 280/280; Wayne Facey 279/280; Kris Gorman 279/280; John Dunkley 278/280; Niki Bolam 277/280; Brian Neilsen 277/280; Chris

Parris 276/280; Steve Hindmarch 274/280; Michael Buttriss 271/280; John Dean 271/280; Anthony Bratton 270/280 and Mia Condon 124/280.

50metre Fox target shoot: John Gorman 120/120; Kris Gorman 120/120; John Dunkley 120/120; Wayne Facey 118/120; Steve Hindmarch 118/120; Niki Bolam 116/120; Brian Neilsen 116/120; Courtney Gorman 116/120; Chris Parris 112/120; Anthony Bratton 110/120; John Dean 108/120; Mia Condon 104/120 and Michael Buttriss 89/120.

75metre Mosquito target shoot: John Dunkley 116/120; John Gorman 112/120; Kris Gorman 110/120; Chris Parris 107/120; John Dean 103/120; Courtney Gorman 103/120; Steve Hindmarch 102/120; Niki Bolam 99/120; Anthony Bratton 95/120; Michael Buttriss 86/120; Brian Neilsen 86/120 and Mia Condon 54/120.

100metre Bear target shoot: Steve Hindmarch 112/120; John Dunkley 112/120; John Gorman 111/120; Kris Gorman 110/120; John Dean 109/120; Niki Bolam 108/120;

Courtney Gorman 108/120; Brian Neilsen 98/120; Anthony Bratton 98/120; Chris Parris 95/120 and Mia Condon 30/120.

The weather was hot with a light breeze from the north west at 16 kph and a temperature of 34 degrees.

The range o cers were Niki Bolam, Anthony Bratton, Mia Condon and David Coleman.

Scorers were Steve Hindmarch, Wayne Facey John Dean and Chris Parris.

The Centre- re ri e shoot was held a er the Rim- re shoot. The shooters in attendance were Steve Hindmarch, Chris Parris and Anthony Bratton. The temperature at the Centre- re shoot was 38 degrees.

The range o cer was Anthony Bratton.

The next S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre and other rim re ri e shoot (.22 magnum or.17HMR), the next Wednesday shoot will be on Wednesday January 15, 2025 starting at 2pm.

The next Sunday shoot will be on Sunday January 19, 2025 starting at 10am. The

Centre- re ri e shoots start at 2pm a er the Rim- re shoots on Sunday, Centre re shoots start at 2pm, names in by 1-30pm.

All events held at the Bedgerebong road range, turn right o the Bedgerebong road onto Dr. Young Drive. All target shooters are welcome to attend these shoots.

Any person wishing to try Rim- re or Centre- re ri e or shotgun shooting can attend any of these shoots to take part a er lling out a P650 form at the club, Junior shooters must be 12 years or over.

For all information on .22 cabilre rim re shooting contact: Wayne Facey 0414524059; Norm Brook 0458664541; Ben Smith 0427524151; David Coleman 0427401263 A er-Work.

The next shoot for the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting clay’s will be their monthly shoot on Sunday January 12 this shoot will be a 100 targets this shoot could be ve stand or eld depending on the weather shoot starting at 10am.

For all information on clay target shooting contact: Norm Brook 0458664541; Tony Bratton (02) 68523349; Ben Smith 0427524151; Doug Davis (02) 68523249 & Phil Picker (02) 68516494. Any person wishing to obtain a long arm firearm licence can contact Wayne Facey on 0414524059; Norm Brook on 0458664541; Tony Bratton on (02) 68523349 to do a firearm safe shooting assessment course which is a requirement for a firearm licence application.

Members are reminded that Local Range rules apply to the Forbes SSAA range. SSAA members should check the face book page for shoot details for dates and times and cancellation of shoots due to wet weather also check the local community radio station 2LVR 97.9 FM.

Members are reminded the By-Monthly meeting will be on Wednesday February 12 at the Forbes Sport & Rec club starting at 7-30pm.

Like us on facebook @ Forbes Sporting Shooters.

Smith ends

racing year on high with quinella

By COLIN HODGES

Local trainer Alison Smith finished the year on the right note when landing the quinella with Can Do It and Brief Statement in the final event at Orange on December 30.

ished gamely to win by a head from Light Infantry (Blake Spriggs, $6 to $5) with a short head to Infinite Prince (Chad Lever, $7).

is asking fishos to help protect the region’s waterways this summer. PHOTO: Supplied

Help protect our waterways from pest species this summer

As the summer holidays approach, Central West Local Land Services urges vigilance against aquatic pests in our waterways.

Nigel Boyce, Team Leader Invasive Species and Biosecurity, said help from the public is crucial in keeping pest species out of our rivers and streams.

“We are calling on all recreational and commercial shers, sh farmers, and ornamental sh enthusiasts to be vigilant while enjoying their time on the water” Nigel said.

“While you’re out on the water this summer, please keep an eye out for anything unusual.”

The Central West Local Land Services Regional Strategic Pest Animal Management Plan identi es Mozam-

bique tilapia as a freshwater species to be on the lookout for in the Central West region.

Nigel said people should also be on the lookout for red n perch.

“Mozambique tilapia and red n perch are listed as noti able species under Schedule 1 of the Biosecurity Regulation 2017. It is illegal to move, buy or sell, or be in possession of both.

“If Mozambique tilapia are caught through recreational shing or other means, they must be dispatched immediately and must not be returned to the water.

“Red n perch are already found in our region and may be immediately released at point of capture, although this is generally discouraged.

“Red n must not be used as bait and it’s illegal to possess live red n perch. We don’t want red n to disperse any further than it already has.”

Both species are voracious predators of other native species and can destroy recreational sheries in enclosed waters.

“They are considered a serious pest species and not something we want to see establish in the Central West region, and in the case of tilapia, introduced to Central West waterways.

“We all have a General Biosecurity Duty, including all shers, sh farmers, and keepers of ornamental sh, to reduce the likelihood of pest sh being bred or released.”

Early detection of aquatic

pests is critical, as once a pest species establishes itself in an area, it becomes very di cult, if not impossible, to eradicate.

To help reduce the risk of pest sh or disease establishment, report any sightings of suspected aquatic pests to the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).

Rapid reporting can help minimise the impacts of new pests or diseases.

If you think you’ve seen a Mozambique talapia, take good quality digital photos or collect a sample.

If it’s a sh or invertebrate, place it in a plastic bag and freeze it.

Report via www.dpi.nsw. gov.au/dpi/bfs/aquatic-biosecurity/report-an-aquaticpest-or-disease

Both gallopers made their runs together out wide from back in the field and closed on the leaders over the the final stages of the 1000 metres Orange Motor Group Benchmark 58 Handicap.

In a desperate finish, Can Do It (Ashley Morgan, $7) won by a half head from Brief Statement (Jordan Quince, $4.40) with Ditterich (James Innes Jnr, $12) a long neck away third.

Owned by Richard Lang, Nathan Smith, Mitchell Collins and Brian Dunn, Can Do It has recorded two wins and a second placing at the last three starts over the 1000 metre trip at Orange while the highly consistent mare Brief Statement has posted 4 wins and 15 placings from 30 starts.

Five-year-old gelding

Bamboula at only the fourth start in a race staged a good performance to win the 1280 metres Tamburlaine Organic Wines Country Boosted Class 1 Handicap for Wellington trainer Jim McMillan.

Winner of the Super Maiden Handicap on Forbes Cup Day, Bamboula drew the outside gate at Orange and it was a good ride by Dylan Stanley to find a handy fourth position not long after the start.

Dylan Stanley who is apprenticed to Jim McMillan, switched his mount to the inside in the straight and Bamboula ($7.50 to $11) fin-

Racegoers may have seen a future star when the Bjorn Baker, Warwick Farm trained Stallone scored a stunning victory in the Inland Digital Class 1 & Maiden Plate after being backed from $1.33 to $1.14 favourite.

A three year gelding, Stallone had beaten a big field by almost four lengths in a 1400 metres Maiden Handicap at Orange in mid December and over the 1600 metres on Monday tracked the leader Tithing before accelerating to an over seven lengths win from Takeover Artist (Louise Day, $8.50) and Nightwalker (Mikayla Weir, $41).

Promising stayer Shadow Shot was well ridden by Clayton Gallagher when winning the 2100 metres Kennards Benchmark 66 Handicap. Trained at Gulgong by Brett Thompson for Rodger and Nerida Atkinson, Shadow Shot ($2.90 favourite) from back in the field ran home strongly to beat the leader Aiseirigh (Olivia Dalton, $13) and Lady Tino (Mitch Stapleford, $6.50).

Making it three wins from the last four starts, the Michael Mulholland, Dubbo trained Epic Poem (Shayleigh Ingelse, $5 to $4.60) finished best to beat How’s It Kev (Mathew Cahill, $3) and Vaquero (Louise Day, $21) in the 1600 metres The Oriana Orange Benchmark 82 Handicap. Orange will next race on Friday January 10 followed by Dubbo on Tuesday January 14.

Central West Local Land Services

ABOVE: The redfin perch must not be used as bait. BELOW: The female tilapia. PHOTOS: Gunther Schmida

Monthly medal success for Ashton

MEN’S GOLF

By SHORT PUTT

Hot, sunny weather bathed the Forbes golfers throughout the festive season, with many were keen to try out their Xmas gi s. And throughout that there were some good scores.

On Saturday, the rst Mens Competition for 2025 was the Monthly Medal, sponsored by Nutrien Ag Solutions.

The eld comprised 65 players, all keen to do their best and start the year with success.

The A-Grade was won by Brad Ashton whose nett 67 earned him success at last a er numerous ‘misses’ through last year.

He powered home with a scratch 33 on the back-9.

Runner-up was Matt Roylance (71 nett) making a comeback a er a period away. He managed a number of pars, a birdie on the 17th but oundered on the 7th and 8th.

The B-Grade once again returned the best score of the day. This time it was junior player Charlie Howe who scored a 66 nett, in which his worst hole was a double bogey on the 7th but otherwise he was rock solid.

Runner-up was Fons Melisi (73 nett) who could only muster four pars all day.

The C-Grade was won by Jonathon Cutler who started the year in better form than he nished last year.

His 74 nett included as monster ‘2’ on the 3rd hole but he did not feature on the Super pin sheet.

Runner-up was John Byrne with 75 nett and on count back from Brian Clarke. His round was a classic case of two halves, with the back-9 being his better half.

The ball sweep went to 74 nett on count back, going to: 71 – J Betland, S Betland; 72 –J Coulthurst, D Mylecharane, P Cowhan; 73 – L Flakelar, O Paterson, S Hayes; 74 – J Auld, M Simmonds, L O’Connor, P Kay, B Robinson, T Gri ths, P Dawson, D Quirk, B Doyle. The visitors included Ethan

Ga ney (Beerwah), Gary Nicholson (Temora), Stuart Hayes (Murrumbidgee) and Farran Stevens (Grenfell).

The NTP’s went to: 9th –T Howe; 18th – T Grayson. There were eight 2’s with the 1st hole missing out.

Some were the result of long putts and others were the result of chip-ins from afar as did Paul Kay.

The 3rd hole Super-Pin went to Brad Ashton with a shot to 260 cm, but unfortunately he was not able to convert.

It was good to see some players returning a er some time away. Brian Doyle enjoyed his game, managing a birdie on the 6th hole, and Je Haley was home a er a hectic family festive season. It was also good to see out Junior players competing well.

Charlie Howe had his rst ‘win’ over dad Troy, while Tom Grayson has a bit of ground to make up a er his rst comp game. Archie Quirk stumbled a bit letting dad David notch a win.

The greens were rolling well which contributed to some long putts being made.

But it was not always good. Stevie G managed a long bomb from o the green at the 9th to salvage a ‘4’ a er nding the water, but then missed a tiddler on the 12th to manage a 4-putt.

And the fairways were rolling well also which in some cases led to balls rolling behind trees too o en, as was the case for Paul Kay, or too close for comfort to the penalty area lines.

Peter Cowhan was pleased to be out a er his festive season but must have thought Christmas was still going. Travelling down the fairway he heard a woosh overhead as a ball o the tee sailed over his cart.

He initially thought it was Santa heading home at last but instead found instead that it was Darren Riches unleashing a drive.

Despite the rolling fairways one player managed eight shots before he arrived at the water on the 15th hole.

His drive was okay but shots a er that somehow found low hanging branches, bad kicks o sticks into the trees and many other travails. But at least he could laugh about it.

There was plenty of opportunity for golf through the break, with Stableford Medleys and Mens Stableford

The wet weather early in December caused some changes to the scheduled programme.

Following is a summary of the results:

On 21 December the Monthly Medal was played having been postponed from 7 Dec. A eld of 62 gathered for the event, sponsored by Stephen Uphill who unfortunately could not snare a prize. Two visitors, Terry Galvin (Trundle) and Mike Holmes (Wagga Wagga) enjoyed their run.

The prize winners were:

A-Grade - Andrew Grierson (nett 73) from Terry Gri ths (74); B-Grade - Ken Sanderson (69) from Archie Quirk (69); C-Grade - Richard Smith (69) from Cody Banks (70).

The ball sweep went to 74 nett. The NTP’s: 9th – A Cole, 18th – T Sharpe. Super pin –D Mylecharane (155 cm).

Boxing Day had a Stableford Medley with 13 players working o their Christmas lunch. Unfortunately no Ladies participated.

The overall winner was Bede Tooth with 39 points on count back from Nick J Morrison (39).

The ball sweep went to37 points. Both of the NTP’s went to Kailab Tyne, who just missed out on the ball sweep.

The Mens event on Sat 28 Dec was an Individual Stableford, sponsored by John & Jenny Ridley. This was rescheduled from 21 Dec.

The Div 1 winner was Lee Grierson (38 points) on count back from Andrew Dukes (38 pts). The Div 2 went to Charlie Howe (40 pts) in an outstanding performance, and ahead of Fons Melisi (38 pts).

The ball sweep went to 33 pts on count back. NTP’s: 9th – C Howe, 18th – L Flakelar. Super pin – Brad Ashton (193

cm).

There were not enough players to hold a Stableford Medley on Sun 29 Dec.

New Year’s Day saw a good eld of 19 players contest the Stableford Medley. Visitors included Chris Cartman and Mike Duval from Grenfell with Chris handling the grass greens well.

The overall winner was Cody Banks (40 pts) from Randall Grayson (38 pts).

The ball sweep went to 35 pts on c/b. NTP’s: 9th – D Quirk; 18th – Mike Duval. Here is the news:

A reminder to those men players looking to play in the Pennants teams. The draw commences on Sunday 2 Feb for Div 2 and 3 and Sunday 16 Feb for Div 1. We do not have a Div 4 team this year. If you are interested in playing then contact the Pro Shop to nd out the Captain for your Division.

The Summer Sixes competition has been progressing well, with some adjustments required of the wet weather. Players are taking advantage of the sunny conditions during the break to get some cards in. The comp re-commenced this week, being Week 9.

Head Pro Will shall be restarting the Wednesday AllDay Stableford Medley comp

for those who want some extra activity.

It is crystal ball time:

This Saturday, 11 Jan, will be an Individual Stableford event, playing the Annual ‘Le ies vs Righties’ contest. And there is the usual Sunday Stableford Medley comp, returning to the 9-Hole format.

VETS GOLF

Only one word can describe the sponsored Christmas 2-ball ambrose for twin towns veteran golfers and ‘others’ in Forbes on Thursday December 19, ‘excellent’. While it was generally felt the concept is an avenue which both Forbes and Parkes vet clubs could/ should follow is a mix of competitions may entice more senior players to the veteran golf ranks.

Sponsored by Forbes members, Allan Rees, Alf Davies, Peter Grayson and Barry Shine the 2-ball ambrose attracted 32 players to an extremely well presented Forbes course despite recently being a victim of minor ooding due to the early December rains.

Winners were the Forbes pairing of Ken Walton who only had praised for the play of fellow partner Ted Morgan

stating ‘I only went along for the ride’. He too must have played well as every player had to during the round register ve drives each.

Their score of 66.2 nett on handicap resulted in hams taken home while runnersup Steve Uphill, another to re on the day partnered Alex MacKinnon scoring 68 nett for a sleeve of golf balls on a count-back from Peter Barnes and Alf Davies. All from the host club.

Nearest the pins, also for a sleeve of balls were Parkes’ Rod Luyt on the 9th and Barry Shine from the host club at the 18th.

While not a registered twin towns vets comp there will be play in Forbes on Thursday January 2 for all interested while the twin town battle commences with 18 holes in Parkes on January 9.

TUESDAY GOLF

Last Tuesday the heat resulted in only 10 social 12 hole players with Ken Sanderson winning with 28 points from Ken Walton only one in arrears.

Next Tuesday 12 hole outing will be January 7, all the more the merrier. Be at the Pro Shop for a ball toss at 9am.

Canowindra Tigers score a Kangaroo for Woodbridge Cup

The Canowindra Tigers have red an early warning shot to their 2025 Woodbridge Cup opponents with the signing of former Canberra Raiders, Gold Coast Titans and Kangaroos prop forward Shannon Boyd. Boyd, 34, who returned home to Cowra several years ago a er an injury enforced retirement from top level rugby league will join Ron Lawrence on the coaching sta of the Tigers in 2025 following successful negotiations which started on the sidelines of a junior league game.

fella was playing under 8s as well and our other front rower ‘Wally’ Gaytor, his young fella was playing as well.

season and have a proper pre-season because he hasn’t played for four years.

“His experience will be invaluable,” Miller said.

Boyd played alongside Lawrence during his days with the Cowra Magpies more than a decade ago but hasn’t played since his retirement from the NRL in 2020.

Between 2014 and 2018 he played 111 for the Raiders before moving to the Titans where injuries restricted him to just 14 games in 2019 and 2020.

His representative career included one game for NSW Country and ve appearances for Australia.

Boyd is just the start of what could be a major rebuild for the Tigers with two regular rst graders making the move to other clubs in 2025 and several others considering retirement.

“There’s plenty in the pipeline,” Tigers co-coach Ron Lawrence said.

“His young fella’s playing under 8s in Canowindra,” Tigers president Malcolm Miller explained a er the Tigers announced Boyd’s signing.

“Ronald Lawrence’s young

“They went down to Condo (last season) to play down early morning and they went down on the Friday night and sitting around having a few beers Ronnie put the acid on him and planted the seed.

“He was nearly going to have a run last season but decided he wanted to do a full

Signing with The Canberra Raiders, Boyd played for the club’s youth league sides from 2010 to 2012 and played for NSW Under 18s and Under 20s.

He made his rst grade debut with the Raiders in 2014.

His debut in the Australian Rugby League team came just two years later in the startling line up against New Zealand in a Four Nations tournament match.

Just how much game time the Tigers get out of Boyd, will be le to the former international.

“A man of his experience, he’ll know and he’ll tell us,” Miller said.

“We’re just happy to have him in the club and every game he can play will be a bonus.

“He’s been through a system where they know how to train and look a er themselves,” Miller said.

The Tigers have lost Jack Grant to the Cowra Magpies and Charlie Frendo is leaving to join the Grenfell Goannas.

“Obviously a er a grandnal appearance it’s important to keep the core or most of the lads together,” Lawrence said.

“A couple have decided to leave and we’re working to replace them and others have decided to retire, but we’re working on talking them out of retirement,” he added.

As for any impact the signing of Boyd will have on the Player Points Index System Miller says the club is still placed for more signings. A er nishing in the top four last season the Tigers are restricted to a roster coming in under 42 points next year. Boyd will take up 15 of those points.

“We’ve only got 42 points because of our success the last couple of years and we’ve calculated even with the other players we’ve got and all the players from last year that are staying we’ll be okay.

The Tigers expect to start pre-season training in mid January.

“It’s just going to be good for the town, it’s already got the town abuzz and created interest,” Miller said.

Peter Grayson enjoying his golf in the Monthly Medal.

Pooch’s Classic Boxing Day bowls

By TARA SHAW

Thirty keen bowlers continued celebrating the festive season at the Forbes Sports and Recreation Club on Boxing Day for the annual Pooch’s Classic for Pooch’s birthday.

Two games of 10 ends and nals scores based on overall wins (gaining 2 points) and ends won (1 point per end).

Experienced bowlers were paired with and skipped for less experienced bowlers to make it a more even playing eld.

Across the greens all morning you could see the smiles on everyones faces, hear the competitive banter and many many laughs.

Winners of the day went to Terry Murphy and Bert Bayley with a top score of 19.

Second Place was Nathan Suttie and Christian West on 18. Third Place went to Tyler Murphy, Jarrod Andrews and Clint Hurford with 17 points.

We had two teams that were equal last on 6 points so with a toss of a coin Nick Bolam and Shayne (Sharka) Staines were the last place victors.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the day including the cook Scooter Andrews and Cristy Dukes for the salads, it

was a great day had by all. Sunday morning social bowls resumed this week a er the Christmas period and 18 bowlers took to the greens.

Three games of pairs and one game of triples was played.

Ross Williams teamed up with Shayne Staines to take on Alan Hilder and Peter Tisdell. Scoreboard showed

at hal ime 9-10. Shayne and Ross came out of the break strong winning the next four ends to lead 15-11. Holding onto the lead Shane and Ross won the game 18-12.

One of our newest bowlers, Juss Sci eet lead for Cherie Vincent drawing against Ange Dwyer and Bert Bayley. Early runs on the board

them a handy lead of 8-3 at oranges.

Juss and Cherie were not giving up yet taking the next three ends to close the gap and trail by 3. They dug deep but it wasn’t enough for the win, nal score 13-9 to Ange and Bert.

The battle of the brothers was our last pairs game with Billy Cowell leading for Mick

Merritt vs Tara Shaw and Graham (Cagey) Cowell.

Tara and Cagey were o to a great start going into the break 7-4. Billy and Mick refueled and regrouped and came out swinging.

Billy and Mick picked up a 4 and then a 3 which put them straight back in the game and only one point difference on 12.

It was anyone’s game going

into the last end with Tara and Cagey having a slight lead 14-13 but Billly and Mick won the last end to have a 14 all draw.

Our triples game was played by Max Vincent, Benny Parslow and Lyal Strudwick battling it out against Noel Hocking, Jamie Dukes and John Kennedy.

Lyal’s team started strong and won 5 of the 6 ends before half time 8-2.

John’s team pulled out all the stops at the break and won the next 4 ends to trail by 2, 8-6.

Lyals team were the victors of the day winning the last 2 ends to take home the trophy 10-6.

Winning Rink: Rink 3

(Ange Dwyer and Bert Bayley)

Losing Rink: Rink 4 (Noel Hocking, Jamie Dukes and John Kennedy)

Resting touchers: Mick Merritt.

Jackpot drawn was $390 and Rink 5 had the chance. They needed a 6 but they were unlucky and drew an 8. Chicken ra es were won by: Billy Cowell, Johny Woods, Peter Besgrove, Clint Hurford, Spro Asimus, Mick Merritt, Ian Hodges.

Wednesday and Thursday Social bowls resumes this week at normal times.

Croquet club celebrates Christmas and 2024 success

By ELVY QUIRK

Forbes Croquet Club has been in recess since December 14 and will resume play on January 7, 2025.

During recess our Christmas luncheon and prize giving day was held on December 17 at the Vandenberg Hotel with 54 in attendance.

The tables were suitably decorated in the Christmas theme by Irene Ford, Cheryl Toohey and Elvy Quirk.

A scrumptious meal was served by the sta and the set up in the bar area was nothing short of amazing with plenty of room to move.

Each guest was treated to a Christmas cookie made by Irene Ford and a special thank you must go to Irene.

The Christmas cake made by President, Elvy and iced by Shirley Myers took pride of place with Kevin Wenning and Wayne Wright our very new members given the honour of cutting the cake.

Lucky door prizes were won by Jane Gilmour and John Cole whilst many other lucky prizes were won by various members.

On the day Encouragement Award Certi cates were received by Russell Anderson, Geo Coles, Frank Donohoe, May Whiley-Jones, Evelyn Mahlo, Bill Scott, Lyn Simmonds and Rex Toole.

Major Trophy awards for the most games won during the year went to the following: Ladies Aussie Croquet Winner Elvy Quirk, Runner Up Fay Picker, Ladies Golf Croquet Winner Elvy Quirk, Runner Up Robin Pols, Mens Aussie Croquet Winner Peter West Runner Up John Browne, Mens Golf Croquet Winner Noel Jolli e, Runner Up Kevin Rubie. Congratulations must go to those players.

Forbes Croquet Club is a progressive Club with almost 70 members with many contributing towards the run-

ning of the Club. So pleasing to see such a happy place.

During the recess Forbes Shire Council employees have top dressed and fertilized the Croquet lawns and with the extra water given we should start the year with a good coverage on the lawns. A special thank you to the Council employees. A special thank you to our members who have given time to help with the watering. Our member Cherylin Cole has been hospitalized for some weeks and hopefully a er further surgery in the New Year she will be up and about. It has been a long process. Best wishes are extended to Cherylin. Looking forward to the New Year and a safe return to the Croquet Lawns. Croquet will recommence on January 7, 2025. 8.45 am for a 9 am start. As the New Year rolls in Best wishes to all for a happy and healthy New Year.

Terry Murphy, Pooch Dukes, Bert Bayley enjoyed Boxing Day bowls.

Encouragement award recipients Russell Anderson, Frank Donohue, May Whiley-Jones, Rex Toole, Bill Scott, Lyn Simmonds and Evelyn Mahlo (absent Geo Coles).

Ladies golf croquet runner up Robin Pols and winner Elvy Quirk. runner up Kevin Rubie.

Gliders launch 20th year

Milestone Forbes Flatlands Hang Gliding championship starts January 14

The Forbes Flatlands Hang Gliding Championships will launch the 2025 season from January 14.

With 40 pilots registered across nine countries so far for the 20th year of the event, it’s set to be another fantastic year for camaraderie, competition and adventure.

Forbes Flatlands organiser Vicki Cain said the nine-day event was perceived as a premier competition, with competitors from Australia, Ireland, Great Britain, Turkey, Austria, Norway, USA, France and Poland.

“The Forbes Flatlands Championships annually attracts Australia’s best hang glider pilots and is also an important event on the international calendar,” Vicki said.

“As in previous years, we continue to strive to lead the Australian hang-gliding competition scene through innovation and consistency to provide a benchmark for other events around the country.

“The AAA-rated SAFA event is key to cultivating, improving and determining pilots for the Australian Hang-Gliding Team, which is why it’s so important to our competitive pilots.”

Forbes Flatlands was developed 20 years ago to develop the upcoming and current top end competitors and continues to do so today.

The launch arena for the duration of the competition is only a short 8km from the town of Forbes.

“Bill’s” paddock north of the Forbes airport is a ectionately called BMIA, Bill Moyes International Airport.

with mowed grass and there

is enough room for 50 plus pilots to tow in all wind directions.

The headquarters will be based at the Forbes Aeroclub.

The tasks will be set depending on the weather each day, but in previous years the championships has been able to set the longest task ever in a hang-gliding competition in Australia several times.

In 2016 with super conditions and a very experienced and audacious task committee a 367.6km task was set north to Walgett. Twenty-six of the 59 competitors made goal.

Two years later an even longer task was achieved with a 388.8 km task set north to Manilla.

That year 16 of the 47 competitors made goal.

“We are looking forward to hosting another successful competition in Forbes, the home of Australia’s at-

land hang gliding locations,” Vicki said.

“We provide an opportunity for pilots of all skill levels to experience the thrill of competitive hang-gliding to enhance their ying skills and to further enjoy the great camaraderie of the sport.”

Expect to see competitors arriving in town from this weekend, with registration and practice day Monday. Land holders who see the pilots out and about: if they land on your property you can go in the draw for an appreciation prize at the end of the event.

It’s a real community event with many local businesses and the local council getting behind it due to its positive contribution to the local economy.

“We are grateful for support from local businesses in Forbes, The Forbes Shire Council and the NSWHPA which enables us to contin-

Forbes XI opens Summer with Western Zone win

Forbes cricket XI has opened their Western Zone Plate campagin with a win over Trundle.

The local team hosted Trundle at South Circle Oval before Christmas, the visitors winning the toss and electing to bat.

Trundle set a challenging total of 138, all out o 45.3 overs.

Forbes’ fast bowling attack, of Harry Leadbitter, Toby Hurford, Henry Hodges and Ollie Patterson led by captain Dan Sweeney, was in full force.

Peter Webb stole the show with a blistering 4/31 (10.0 overs), and was supported well by Sweeney 3/24 (9.3 overs), Hurford, Leadbitter and Patterson all taking one wicket each.

With the wicket of Wright striking Forbes early, a solid

partnership was formed between Webb and Hurford.

Soon a er, the partnership was broken, but the Forbes total was increased with middle order contributions of Leadbitter, Welsh, Cole and O’Byrne.

The total was chased down successfully by Tom Glasson and Dan Sweeney, with Forbes taking home the win of the rst round of the Western Zone Plate.

Forbes’ top gures of the day were: P. Webb 4/31 (10.0); D. Sweeney 3/24 (9.3); T. Hurford 1/24 (10.0); and with the ball P. Webb 49; H. Leadbitter 22; T. Hurford 14.

It was a cracking start to the representative season for Forbes, with a team of rep-

resentatives from the Forbes and District cricket competition and some of our local junior talent rising to the senior ranks.

Captain Sweeney said the pitch was good, with good variation, but Forbes su ered an early blow with injury to Nick Corduroy.

“Trundle batted pretty well, set us a challenging total with the variation in the wicket,” Sweeney said.

“But our strengths had some good bowling, especially from Pete Webb and Toby Hurford. They bowled exceptionally.”

Forbes now travels to Condobolin to take on Condo this Sunday, 50 over contest to start 10am.

gliding competition.

PHOTO: File