FA20250130

Communities shine

Making a di erence in incredible Eugowra: Sean Haynes named Citizen of the Year

EUGOWRA’S Citizen of the Year has been described as an amazing citizen both of the town and the wider community.

Sean Haynes and his family moved to Eugowra 13 years ago - and he serves as president of the Show Society, chair of the Eugowra Promotion and Progress Association, active member of St Joseph’s P and F and organiser of Anzac Day and Remembrance Day commemorations.

Both proud and humbled, Sean said he needed to acknowledge the people and organisations who supported and inspired his work in the community.

“First and foremost I must thank the residents and supporters of Eugowra,” he said.

“Nearly 13 years ago my family and I moved here, and while I hoped to be in a community similar to the one I grew up in, I never anticipated how much this town and its people would come to mean to me.

“The friendships and connections made, along with the opportunities to be involved in various organisations have been incredibly rewarding.

“It has and is about making a di erence in our community so thank you Eugowra for being the community that you are.”

At the Australia Day awards, Sean’s leadership

and advocacy was described as “phenomenal”.

Eugowra Show is a thriving community event and the EPPA has supported the murals, museum and Rural Transaction Centre to grow and ourish.

There have been grants and funding for local projects and facilities such as the multipurpose centre at the showground over the years.

Then, following the devastating ash ood event of 14 November 2022, Sean really went to work for the town in a voluntary capacity.

Sean was among the early responders working to ensure the evacuation centre was available and necessary

supplies available and he hasn’t stopped since.

Despite losing a house in the ood himself, Sean immediately went to workcommitted to do everything he could to help the community recover.

He liaised with emergency services, government departments, non-government organisations and charities, he has advocated to Members of Parliament tirelessly for what the community needs.

“His input cannot be overstated,” Australia Day MC

Tony Troohey said in reading the award citation.

“His work in this space continues to this day.”

■ Continued page 6

MAREE A CHAMPION OF SHIRE

Eugowra Citizen of the Year Sean Haynes with his wife Alison, son Lachlan and daughter Alana.

MAREE Yapp has been named our shire’s Citizen of the Year for her volunteer work supporting young families, championing the arts and environment. Our Australia Day awards were presented at a gala dinner at a Town Hall packed with nominees, families and friends on Saturday, January 25. Pictured are Citizen of the Year Maree Yapp with Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM and Australia Day Ambassador Ange Clarke.  Full story page 7.

Federal government commits $50million to keep Rex flying

By ADRIAN BLACK for AAP

The federal government has thrown embattled regional airline Rex another lifeline as it buys up $50 million of the car rier’s debt.

The purchase will ensure regional communities stay connected and will keep access to essential medical and freight services.

“The Albanese government is ensuring Rex Airlines regional services will continue, sup porting the administrators on next steps,” Transport Minster Catherine King said in a joint statement with Finance Minister Katy Gallagher.

and freight services, supporting regional liveability and regional economies,” the ministers said.

Police investigating car, property crimes

Police have launched multiple investigations into a spike in property crime and vehicle the s in our area.

There have been further developments in a vehicle pursuit throughout the region last weekend.

address in Parkes a er it was involved in several pursuits.

Rex went into administration in mid-2024 with about $500 million in debts, after a push into Australia’s most competitive routes dominated by Qantas and Virgin.

The debt purchase will make the government Rex’s principal secured creditor and it will seek to become a voting member on the committee of inspection.

“These actions preserve important economic, medical

It is the second lifeline extended to the battled airline in a couple of months.

Late last year, the government provided a $80 million commercial loan to Rex’s administrators to keep regional routes open, cover early entitlements for former workers and to guarantee tickets for regional routes.

Rex flies out of Parkes airport daily.

Police have engaged in several pursuits around Parkes, Forbes, Condobolin, Lake Cargelligo and Orange in recent weeks.

Police from Parkes responded to a report of three stolen cars - two from south of the state and one from Euabalong - travelling in convoy between Lake Cargelligo and Condobolin on January 21.

O cers intercepted one of the vehicles and a pursuit occurred.

Two o enders were arrested, including an 18-year-old male from Narrandera who was charged with four counts of take a drive conveyance and unlicenced driver.

He was refused bail by police on January 21 but granted bail by Condobolin Local Court.

A 22-year-old woman was also charged with two counts of be carried in conveyance and one count of larceny.

She appears before Condobolin Local Court in early February.

Police were told a Toyota sedan was allegedly stolen from a house in Orange on January 18 along with jewellery, clothing and money.

Police located the vehicle in Parkes, where a pursuit was initiated.

The vehicle was tracked through Parkes, Eugowra, Cudal, Manildra, back to Parkes and Forbes.

Police tracked the vehicle to a reserve in McDonnell Street in Forbes where it was found abandoned about 11.35am that Sunday. It was seized for forensic examination.

A 14-year-old boy was charged and appeared before Orange Children’s Court on January 20 where he was granted bail.

A second o ender, a 22-year-old male from Forbes, has since been charged in relation to the same offence, with entering building with intent, goods in custody and custody of a knife.

O cers also seized a blue Toyota Camry sedan from a Currajong Street

WHAT’S ON in and around Forbes

HAVE YOUR SAY ON FORBES FUTURE

January 30

Time is running out to contribute to Forbes Shire Council’s community strategic plan! The plan is the 10 year strategy that sets the goals and aspirations of the community. Forbes Shire council wants to hear your ideas and feedback on issues that are important to you. Drop into Forbes Town Hall between 11am and 1pm on January 30 if you’d like assistance completing their survey or go online to yoursay.forbes.nsw.gov.au

MARKETS

Saturday, February 8

Forbes Club of Rotary Ipomoea markets are on again, Sunday, February 8! Markets are on at Lion’s Park from 8am to 12.30pm. If you’d like to book a stall phone 0427201445, or head on down and browse on Saturday.

VARIETY NIGHT

Saturday, February 8

Michele Quigley and Leigh Bartholomaeus are preparing for the Abel Tasman Trek for Vision in New Zealand this year, and raising funds with what promises to be an evening full of fun, laughs and entertainment from local performers. Tickets available from The Book Dispensary.

BEDGERABONG PICNIC RACES

Saturday, February 15

A home in Clarinda Street, Parkes, was broken into on the evening of January 20 where a 2020 model 110cc motorbike was stolen.

O cers arrested and charged a 36-year-old man ve days later in relation to this o ence.

Another break and enter occurred at a house in Belmore Avenue in Parkes on January 23 where property including jewellery and an iPad were stolen.

Police are reviewing footage and have identi ed a person of interest for this incident.

A white Toyota Corolla was stolen from Bushman Street on the night of January 22 where inside the car police found an air compressor, Milwaukee toolbox and a tool believed to have been stolen from another motor vehicle in Pearce Street the day before.

“No o enders for this have been identi ed as yet,” Parkes Police Ofcer in Charge Chief Inspector Scott Rayner said.

dars and gather your friends for a night of amazing music and good vibes. Stay up to date with Parkes Shire Council for more exciting updates.

WIRRINYA AQUATIC CLUB COCKTAIL

EVENING

March 1

It’s on again! The best little race meeting in the west. Get your tickets online now for Bedgerabong Picnic Race Day. The fashions on the eld, the fun, the entertainment and of course the racing all returns to this picturesque club in 2025. Tickets online at 123tix. com.au

COUNTRY SOUNDS

Saturday, February 22

Country Sounds returns in February! Robbie Mortimer, Tyla Rodrigues, Baeden Faint and Gracey Jones will be rocking the Cooke Park Stage. Make sure to mark your calen-

Experience an incredible evening by the scenic Wirrinya ski dam! Savour delicious wood- red pizza from Povey’s Pizza and enjoy live music by the talented Gracey Denham Jones. Your night will begin with a complimentary cocktail or beer upon arrival. A return bus service from Forbes will be available - be sure to purchase your bus ticket when booking, camping onsite is also welcome. Tickets online now at 123tix.com.au

TRUNDLE BACK IN TIME

March 15 and 16

This celebration of heritage returns to Trundle with the theme Show Us Ya Tracks. There will be all the regular favourites - the tractor pull, sheaf toss, swap meet, market

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stalls and kids zone with live music too. 2025 also marks 100 years of John Deere tractors.

EUGOWRA BOOTS AND BOWTIES BALL

Saturday, April 5

This is a fundraiser ball not to be missed presented by the Eugowra Public School P and C at the Eugowra Showground Pavilion. Think hay bales, festoon lights, warm tones, plenty of seating and the beautiful country night air. Roving canapes by Smoking Brothers Catering and live music from Foxxy Cleopatra - it’s going to be spectacular. There will be buses from Forbes, Parkes, Canowindra and Gooloogong. Ticket details to come.

AMAZING MOTOR FESTIVAL

Saturday, April 5

Save the date for a celebration of historic machinery, cars, trucks, bikes and more. To be hosted by the Forbes District Historic Machinery Association, this event will bring together enthusiasts and families at the Multipurpose Equestrian Centre and Showground for a day packed with excitement.

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Bertock dominates the skies

Hungary’s Attila Bertok has won the 2025 Forbes Flat lands Hang Gliding champi onship for 2025 - his fourth in five years.

Bertok had an outstanding start to the competition and his consistency proved key as he totalled 4643 points of a possible 5000.

Gliders converged on Forbes for the annual com petition and although there were some tricky conditions mid-week - storms and high winds - they flew five days out of the available eight.

“Considering we had those strong southerlies we were very lucky,” organiser Vicki Cain from Moyes Delta Glid ers said.

This year’s competition was again very competitive, with gliders set tasks including one to Narromine and others a triangle returning to base near Forbes.

“Each day the maximum points you can get is 1000 and (Attila) was very consistent,” Vicki said.

Bertok won task one with 1000 points; then placed third on tasks 2 (834 points), task 3 (924 points) and Task 4 with 881 points.

He came in second on the final day with 904 points.

In second overall in the open championships was Gordon Rigg from Great Britain with a total 4236 points, third was Oval Opsanger from Norway, with 4071 points.

First of the Australians on the leaderboard was Jon Durand, himself a past open title winner, in fourth place and fellow Australian Craig Taylor in fifth.

Richard McLeod from Victoria backed up to win the sports class for the second year in a row.

Overall the week was an incredibly positive experience for both returning pilots and those visiting the central west for the first time.

“They’re already talking about coming back next year,” Vicki said.

First time Forbes flyer Nicholas Orand from France said he had heard about the

competition and just had to make the trip for the experience.

“Coming from France to fly the flatlands requires a lot of prep work but the outcome is well worth it on many aspects,” he wrote to Vicki afterwards.

“This year’s flying let us imagine how great the place can be, the breathtaking Australian country side and wildlife, and most of all, the welcoming and supportive

attitude of all I met these past 10 days.”

He extended thanks to all the organisers, tug pilots and support crew who make the event possible.

“Thank you Vicki and Moyes for all you do. I am flying back to France with great memories,” he wrote.

This year marked the 20th anniversary for the Forbes Flatlands Hang Gliding competition.

It was a special milestone,

but also a time to pay tribute to Bill Moyes, Vicki’s father, a founder in the sport, who passed away last September. Bill Moyes was known as “Birdman”, taking to the skies in the 1960s, claiming the first soaring flight for this type of aircraft at Botany Bay and setting records for height, free flight, and longHis honours included an OAM and an Australian Sports Medal for Moyes’ contribution to sport; he was presented with a Smithsonian Institute Invention Award for technical development; and the Federation Aeronautique Internationale’s Gold Air Medal for contribution to development of hang gliding. The paddock where the pilots launch is affectionately known as Bill Moyes international airport.

Nine of the top 10 pilots at this year’s championships were flying Moyes Gliders. One of the aspects of presentation night is drawing a landholder raffle in thanks to all the farmers whose properties the gliders land on. This year’s recipient was Paul Egan, Cooks Myalls.

Get your tickets, support Shell’s big trek for Vision Australia

These just might be the hottest tickets in town right now.

Michele Quigley - or Shell Bell as many know her - and Leigh Barthomomaeus are preparing for the Abel Tasman trek for Vision 2025.

This 53km venture on a Level 3 hiking track is all to support the work of Vision Australia - and Forbes can get on board and have a blast at the same time with a variety night of entertainment planned to raise funds.

Shell promises the night will

be one full of fun and frivolity. It’s all happening on Saturday, February 8, at Club Forbes.

Tickets are $50 and include supper, they’re available at The Book Dispensary (cash only).

Ten years ago Shell and her sister Nell were diagnosed with the genetic condition of Cone Dystrophy, which also affected their Dad as well as other members of his extended family.

Cone Dystrophy is a slowly progressive eye condition

which affects the central vision and non face recognition is one of the many symptoms.

Enter Vision Australia. An amazing organisation that has helped guide and support both Shell and Nell through this unknown journey.

Now it’s time to give back to this non-profit organisation.

Shell and Leigh have some serious training ahead to complete this trek as well as raise vital funds for Vision Australia, allowing the organisation to help many more people.

The Trek for Vision commences on 29 April 2025 in Nelson, New Zealand and finishes in Maranou five days later.

Michele

and Leigh Bartholomaeus are preparing for the Abel Tasman Trek for Vision 2025 and you can support them and the cause by purchasing tickets to the variety night of entertainment.

Expression of Interest – Leasing of Lane situated East of Ooma Street

Forbes Shire Council is seeking expressions of interest (EOI) for the lease over a lane adjoining Lots 553, 554, 606, 607 and 608

or email your business details to business@forbes.nsw.gov.au

expressions of interest for the lease of Hangar

at the Forbes Aerodrome. The hangar is located on the eastern boundary of the Forbes Aerodrome and is the southernmost hangar in the group of three hangars off Doctor Young Drive. The building ground area is 329.9m² and has unsealed access to the aerodrome runway. There is no access to electricity or water at this site and no hardstand apron to the front of the hangar. The rent expectation is $4,500 per annum, paid monthly. Expressions of interest may be tendered using the Expression of Interest Form available on the Tenders and Expressions of Interest page on Council’s website. Completed forms can be emailed to forbes@forbes.nsw.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 3 February 2025. For further information please contact Council’s Manager Corporate Business on 6850 2300 (Option 4).

Deposited Plan 750158 and Lot 2 Deposited Plan 532593 and east of Ooma Street. The lane is roughly 7,710sq m and there is no access to electricity or water at this site. Expressions of interest may be tendered using the Expression of Interest Form available on the Tenders and Expressions of Interest page on Council’s website. Completed forms can be emailed to forbes@forbes.nsw.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 2300 (Option 4).

Open Tenders, RFQs & EOIs

Council invites submissions for the following tenders, request for quotations and expressions of interest. Tenders, addressed to the General Manager, are to be lodged via Council’s e-tendering portal, VendorPanel. For further information contact Council’s Governance Officer – Procurement and Risk on 6850 2300. Please note that canvassing of any of Council’s Officers or Councillors will disqualify applications from the tendering, quotation and expressions of interest process. The lowest of any tender, quotation and expressions of interest will not necessarily be accepted.

Closing 31 January

Tender 2024-37 – Provision of Traffic Control Services

Tender 2025-02 – Supply of Telemetry and SCADA Support

Closing 14 February

Request for Quotation 2024-38 – Forbes Library Electrical and Air-conditioning

Pawel Cedro from Poland in the air. PHOTOS: Peak Pictures

Successful Forbes Flatlands Open pilots Gordon Rigg, UK, winner Attila Bertok, Hungary, and Olav Opsanger, Norway.

RIGHT:

Quigley

PHOTO: Forbes Shire Council

Real change starts with us

Ambassador’s powerful Australia Day message

On Australia Day, we recognise those who contribute to making our community and our country a great place to live.

It’s also a day where we can ask, “how can we contribute to building and nurturing a country that we want to be part of? What can we as individuals do to make that happen?”

That’s the question Forbes shire Australia Day ambassador Ange Clarke posed as Forbes gathered on January 25 for our Australia Day awards.

Ange is the founder of Where There’s a Will, an organisation that empowered communities to create meaningful connections with neurodiverse individuals.

“As Australian citizens, we all have every reason to be happy. We have every right to thrive,” Ange said.

“But happiness doesn’t come without re ection, and thriving doesn’t happen without e ort.

“Australians are at our best when we come together and not just to celebrate, but when we connect and respond and have conver-

sations that demand authenticity, that embrace our shared humanity and seek ways forward.”

Ange shared her experiences of her son Will, diagnosed with autism when he was 12, and her family’s quest for him to be seen and included.

“Emotionally, it has been overwhelming and alienating, as Will’s way of perceiving and processing the world di ered greatly from most people,” Ange shared.

“He grappled with sensitivities to sound, light and touch, making routine environments like the classroom or grocery store feel chaotic and unbearable.”

Through some of the hardest times, Ange shared as she spoke at Forbes’ gala dinner and again at the breakfast by Lake Forbes, her family saw the di erence one person’s understanding and kindness could make.

Over time, as the hope she carried for her child collided with the limitations, she felt the immense responsibility “to move mountains, to carve paths where none exist” so Will could experience the freedoms so many of us

take for granted.

“It’s almost an unbearable ache, a kind of grief tangled with erce love,” she said.

So she began - as one person. Inspired by her son’s resilience and particularly his love for cricket.

Over 20 years, inclusive sports programs, art initiatives and music concerts were created, with cricket days aplenty - changing life not only for Will but thousands of others.

“We slowly began to shi the narrative, to show our community his abilities, his determination, his joy, his incredible ability to communicate with no words, and above all of that, this boy deserved to be seen and included,” Ange said.

“Education turned fear and kindness, and I saw people lean into him rather than lean away.”

As Will got older, they looked for opportunities for employment and created a business where he could repurpose cricket bats to art.

Within six months there was an exhibition with 250 in attendance, Will featured on tv and they had a platform to share his story.

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His work inspired a charity that reached across the world, inspiring communities by painting cricket bats.

Through the charity, the family has worked with 850 artists world wide, Archibald winners, prime ministers, leaders of industry, farmers, men’s shed and more.

Their bats now reside in iconic locations around the world: Australia House in London, Hollywood, Government House, and homes.

Not only that, Will inspired “the last over” - an inclusive over on the end of games where everyone came onto the eld - and was recognised by Steve Waugh in his book The Spirit of Cricket.

They hadn’t set out to change the world, Ange shared, they’d just set out to change Will’s world.

But the world took notice.

“We must remember that true progress does not necessarily just rest in the hands of

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those in power,” Ange said.

“It begins with us.

“It’s the everyday choices we make.

“Leadership is found in communities, in families, and in every person who chooses hope over despair, and action over apathy.

“When we harness the resilience of the human spirit and the power of our collective kindness, we are reminded that real change starts from the ground up.”

Caring makes community great

Helen Smith has been honoured as our Senior Citizen of the Year for her tireless work to help others through St Vincent de Paul.

Helen is the president of our local Vinnies conference and at the heart of the vital work it does to support so many in need in our community.

Most of us are familiar with the Vinnies op shop and the volunteers who work there, but it’s only part of the picture of what this organisation does.

For Helen, Vinnies is an opportunity to be part of a caring community.

Christmas was a busy time, preparing some 133 hampers for local families, and working with the Salvation Army to ensure children received gi s.

But the need is real all year round, Helen says, and Vinnies is seeing the need with rising grocery and housing costs taking their toll.

Vinnies puts you in a place where you can help and connect people to support.

Helen, who was a teacher, rst joined St Vincent de Paul in 1996 and her involvement has grown from there to what is a very busy role today.

“There are many aspects to Vinnies and there are so many people in need,” she said.

“Sometimes they’re in need of a visitor, sometimes they’re in need of food.

“There are many people in

need of homes - it may not be obvious to a lot of people.

“Vinnies provides an opportunity to be part of a caring community.”

One of the joys in Helen’s role is raising up the next generation with Mini Vinnies in schools across the vast Wilcannia-Forbes diocese,

with a wonderful group at Red Bend Catholic College and even in smaller schools including Trundle and Peak Hill.

Caring students and inschool coordinators are doing so much to support the work of Vinnies.

Vinnies volunteers also

work closely with many other organisations in town including CatholicCare WilcanniaForbes and Havannah House as well as the Salvos, then organisations like Lions following the ood disaster just to name a few.

Helen is also happy to hear from other organisations who would like to work together.

Of course, if you have time to give, Helen can recommend Vinnies as a wonderful place.

“It’s based on Catholic and Christian values but any person of any belief who shares those values can belong to it,” she said.

Just come to the Vinnies store in Rankin Streetthere’s a phone number on the door if it’s outside hours

or drop in and see the volunteers.

“It’s a community, Vinnies,” Helen said.

“All people who are interested are welcome to come and join up.”

You can be involved in the shop, as a visitor, or working with the other agencies in town.

“There are so many agencies, so many people who care,” Helen said.

“That’s why I’m in Vinnies.

“You do gain: you gain friends, you gain community.”

Helen also gives her time through the Catholic church - as a Holy Communion minister she takes communion and spends time with those who can no longer come to church themselves.

This too she sees as a privilege to keep people who have served the church and community over many years connected.

Accepting our Senior Citizen of the Year honour in a packed Town Hall on Saturday night, Helen said the experience was very humbling.

“I receive this not only for myself, but for my friends at Vinnies, who work so hard for the community,” she said.

“And for the other organisations that are represented here and represented in town.

“There are so many passionate about our community and caring for people, we need to work together to keep it the great community it is.”

Our 2025 Senior Citizen of the Year is Helen Smith.

Award honours family, community

■ From page 1

Award recipient Sean Haynes thanked the Moxey family: Moxey Farms brought the Haynes family to Eugowra and Sean remains deeply thankful for the opportunity they presented to him and many others in the community.

“Their ongoing support has allowed me to be involved in a variety of community-led initiatives and for that I’m truly grateful,” he said.

“Of course none of this would be possible without the unwavering love and support of my family.

“Your understanding and encour-

agement have allowed me to dedicate time to our community and for that I am grateful.”

He nished paying tribute to the example set by his family.

“The desire to be involved in the community and make a di erence is something that’s been ingrained in me by my parents, grandparents and extended family,” Sean said.

“Their example has shaped who I am and how I approach how I am involved in our community today.

“So in accepting this award I do so not just for myself but in honour of all those who have inspired me.”

Kirbie is Young Citizen of the Year

Kirbie Mongan has been named Eugowra’s Young Citizen of the Year at Cabonne Australia Day celebrations.

Kirbie’s kind nature, willingness to lend a hand and achievements on the football field were recognised at the official ceremony at the Eugowra bowling club on Sunday.

Kirbie is an active member of Eugowra rugby league club and the Geagles league tag side, and has achieved representative rugby league and league tag honours in the school and Woodbridge Cup competitions.

She has also received numerous awards from her football club which not only recognise her sporting ability but emphasise her character including excellent leadership and teamwork.

In 2024, Kirbie was presented with the Eugowra Geagles Don and Hazell Tildsley memorial medal, best back for the season and club player of the year.

She was shortlisted for overall best and fairest across the Woodbridge Cup competition as well.

Off the field, Kirbie has represented her school and community at community events, working as a lifeguard at the local pool and as a babysitter.

“Thank you, I’m very grateful even being nominated for this award,” Kirbie said in accepting the award at the Cabonne

Top group connecting kids to sporting opportunities

Giving their growing population of young children the chance to play sport on a Eugowra team and do swimming training in their local pool has seen Eugowra’s Junior Sports Committee named the town’s community group of the year on Australia Day.

The orgnisation formed in 2023 and elded two teams in the Parkes and District soccer competition through the winter, then gained a grant to buy sports equipment for a sports club.

In 2024 their registration

grew to three soccer teams and they formed a swimming club that’s participating in the Cabonne small town swimming shieldand will even host a carnival in February.

On Australia Day, the committee was recognised for their e orts to ensure the children of Eugowra can access these sporting opportunities - as well as the bene ts to the community as they come together to cheer them on.

Accepting the award, Lachlan Noble thanked local

businesses and community members who have contributed signi cantly to make it all possible.

He thanked the parents and community members who have stepped up to coach and to guide the kids in the di erent sports as well.

“It’s been really rewarding watching the kids grow and develop, in terms of ability but also in condence,” he said.

“At the end of the day, seeing the kids smile that’s what it’s all about.”

Cabonne Australia Day Ambassador Warren Potent congratulates Eugowra Citizen of the Year Sean Haynes.

Honour for Maree’s life of giving back

A belief in the positive potential of every person inspires our Citizen of the Year Maree Yapp.

Maree is well known to many through work that has come out of her role as Schools as Community facilitator at Forbes North, but her passion and dedication takes her commitments far beyond work.

Accepting the award at a dinner honouring all nominees on Saturday night, January 25, Maree said she was inspired by those on stage as she shared some of what motivates her.

“I have a few little rules that I try to live my life by and one of my rules is to believe in the positive potential of every individual,” Maree said.

“It is about recognising that everyone in our community has something to o er to our community to make it a better place.”

She also shared her new year’s resolution for this year, which she hoped others could take something from.

A time to celebrate our selfless volunteers

Australia Day was an opportunity to celebrate Forbes and all that’s wonderful about it, Mayor Phyllis Miller said as she opened activities.

“I needed a cracker that I couldn’t fail at. So I decided to do less,” she said.

“Now, that doesn’t mean less for our community or to be less passionate about anything we do, but it’s to do less things like that we don’t need: less worrying, less stress and less anxiety.

“Doing less of the unhelpful things, letting them go, will free up time to do more of the things I enjoy.

“Imagine if we all did a little less, imagine what we could achieve together for our community.”

Maree was a member of the P and C at Forbes North for more than 20 years - long a er her own children had nished there.

She started the Birth to Kinder program at the school, supporting reading, talking, singing and listening for children from birth.

This organisation provides a free book to all babies born in Forbes.

The annual community reading day makes literacy-based activities and fun available to all children, and Maree has also volunteered for story time and rhyme time at the library week to week.

In the past couple of years, Maree has worked with a new committee to bring back the Galari Lachlan River Arts Festival a er a ve-year hiatus, providing arts and music opportunities for families in and beyond Forbes.

Maree served as president for that rst festival in 2024 and has this year taken the role of secretary with Monica Wren stepping into the president’s role.

The festival had live entertainment from local and regional bands, art workshops, choir workshops, and of course the opportunity to be part of the stunning lantern parade.

In relaunching the festival, Maree was passionate about ensuring people could derive at least some of their income from their creative pursuits.

Artists and performers had been so impacted by COVID-19 and associated lockdowns, it was important to the committee they pay each creative taking part in the festival at least something - although they did kindly have people donate their time.

One of the amazing aspects of the festival was how families and community members came and went through the day, enjoying the markets, the performances and the free activities.

The Wellbeing Hub, popular

throughout the day, gave an opportunity for people to take part in yoga and other therapies.

As they make plans for River Arts for the future, there are de nitely opportunities to be part of things like a community choir and drumming groupreach out through social media if you’re interested.

With another passion for the local environment and being in nature, Maree is an active volunteer with Central West Lachlan Landcare currently serving as its treasurer.

Maree joined 10 or 11 years ago when she found herself in a position to give back to community - and Landcare was a great cause.

The organisation has a focus on healthy rural communities from an environmental perspective, but has also had signi cant focus and work on rural resilience and mental health.

They played a signi cant role in the Rural Women’s Gathering in Forbes a couple of years ago.

“One of my favorite things each year is Eco Schools day, I actually take a day o work every year to go and volunteer for Landcare and help out,” Maree said.

“Homegrown Parkes has been amazing too.”

Maree added Landcare and Galari River Arts are among the organisations that would very

much welcome new volunteers: you can learn more and connect with them through social media.

In accepting the award, Maree recognised the achievements of all nominees as well as our shire councillors for their contributions to our community.

Councillors are not eligible for nomination for these awards, but Maree pointed out they attend many meetings and events to support community groups and involvement.

“A er reading about all the other nominees and the wonderful achievements I did not think there was any chance my name would be read out as the Forbes citizen of the year,” she said.

“The strengths and vision of each of the nominees, and their determination to advocate for others is inspiring as it is awesome.

“The Senior Citizen of the Year nominees have contributed signi cantly to the many and varied institutions in our community and make our town a place we are all proud to call home.

“With such a strong eld of nominees for the Youth of the Year one cannot help but to feel optimistic about our future, nestled on the river in our alluring rural setting.”

Nominees for our local awards were gathered at Forbes Town Hall for a gala dinner on the eve of Australia Day, on Saturday, January 25.

Mayor Miller OAM began by acknowledging the Wiradjuri people and their continuing connection to this land and water.

“I think we need to be very mindful that we do that,” she said.

Forbes’ Citizen of the Year Maree Yapp, Senior Citizen of the Year Helen Smith and Young Citizen of the Year Annika Dukes (spotlight on her achievements to come) were named at Saturday night’s dinner.

All nominees were honoured on the night, they were:

Citizen of the Year: Tami Hanley (Stewart); Rosie Johnston; Jack Buckley; Donna Bliss; Tim West; Kim Muffet; and Keith Mullette.

Senior Citizen of the Year: Bob Drinkwater and Freda Drinkwater; Peter Bright and Elaine Bright; Kevin Dwyer; and Lloyd Gerdes.

Young Citizen of the Year: Sam Mackay; Freya Hooper; Grace Barbary; Isabella Brown; and Indrie O’Connell.

Mayor Miller said it was an honour to be nominated - and that she loved hearing each nominee’s story each year.

“Your selfless contributions to our community through sport, social, academic, charity and other achievements have made our shire much better place to live in,” she said.

“I’m very proud as the mayor of Forbes to lead such a strong, dynamic and multicultural community. And you all work so hard to make it thrive. Because without all of you in the room tonight it wouldn’t thrive.”

January 26 dawned with the Rotary community breakfast, where hundreds gathered at Lions Park and heard from our Australia day ambassador Ange Clarke (her story, page 4).

Rotary Club of Forbes Ipomoea were our hosts, naming Bedgerabong-born Nedd Brockmann our Rotary Ambassador of the Year for his incredible efforts to raise funds for homelessness. That story to come.

There was free entry to Forbes pool, as well as Eugowra pool, for the day and it was very welcome in the heat.

In Eugowra, official celebrations took place at the bowling club in the afternoon, where Sean Haynes was named Citizen of the Year and Kirbie Mongan Young Citizen.

They had the giant inflatable set up and hosted yabby races, face painting and fun for the kids.

Forbes Shire Council hosted a citizenship ceremony in the afternoon, and hundreds returned to Lions Park in the evening for a picnic dinner and fireworks.

Trundle shines on Australia Day

The Trundle community was buzzing on Australia Day a er some very special milestones were marked, such as the opening of the main street and the community gym.

The openings saw the attendance of Australia Day ambassador Tasman Cassim, Mayor Neil Westcott, Deputy Mayor Marg Applebee and other councillors and Parkes Shire Council representatives, State Member for Orange Phil Donato.

A er the formalities the community enjoyed an Australia Day community breakfast at Berryman Oval, which was followed by speeches and the town’s Australia Day awards.

“To our volunteers who came down and helped with cooking, serving, setting up and the ag crew saving the day!” Trundle Boomers Rugby League Club posted on its Facebook page on Sunday.

“Thank you to the Trundle Bush Tucker committee for the donations to the community.

“Congratulations to all our nominees and to our winners - we have a wonderful community here in Trundle.”

The 2025 Trundle Citizen of the Year is a very deserving and dedicated Senior Constable Judith Crawford.

Young Person of the Year went to Jaxson Whiley.

Sportsperson of the Year is Vashti Williams.

The Trundle Central School student and Parkes Little Athletics athlete placed third in the state for her age group in javelin in September and threw a personal best.

Acknowledgement Awards also went to Heather Earney and Les Whiley.

Matters of State with Member for Orange Philip Donato

AUSTRALIA DAY 2025

It was such an honour to be this year’s Australia Day ambassador for Trundle. It was a real privilege to join with the Trundle community to celebrate Australia Day, and also formally opening their brand-new Commu nity Hub and street enhance ment, along with their new community gym. Well done to the Trundle community and Parkes Shire Council.

A special part of Australia Day festivities is being in volved in the citizenship ceremonies of our newest citizens.

It was a real privilege to join with Forbes Mayor Phyl lis Miller OAM, new citizens, family and friends at Forbes Shire Council for the special occasion.

Australia Day is an extra special day for me and my wide, Nadia. It happens to be our wed ding anniversary, and this year we celebrated 28 years of marriage!

2025 COMMUNITY BUILDING PARTNERSHIP GRANTS PROGRAM – OPEN

The Community Building Partnership (CBP) 2025 grant round is now open.

Apply by 21 February 2025 - Community Building Partnership 2025 grant round.

Visit nsw.gov.au/cbp to read the Program Guidelines and start your application today! I would encourage all eligible community groups to apply for grant under this program.

ruary 2025 (5 pm AEDT). No applications will be accepted a er the closing date and time. All projects must be completed by 3 August 2026.

TULLAMORE VISIT

Grants funding is essential for supporting community

ing Club is an important social hub for locals, and I’ve been pleased to support a number of funding grants for them over the years.

On my recent visit to Tullamore I took the opportunity to meet with members and check out progress of the bowling club’s $43,000

enhancement project which I supported, including new water tanks and irrigation –which is a particularly valuable enhancement given we are now in the peak of summer and the heat-tortured greens need all the pampering they can get.

I also dropped in to visit the Tullamore preschool and childcare centre.

This is such a vital service for this community, and I was pleased to have previously supported them with $16,185 in grants funding for a new kitchen.

The new kitchen has been installed and it looks great.

This upgrade will help to support the ongoing operation of the preschool and help develop our young people.

A BUNDLE FOR TRUNDLE

Last week I dropped in to Trundle Central School and caught up with Principal John Southon, to personally congratulate him on the several hundred thousand dollars in funding his school will receive to refurbish their science lab.

The lab is largely the same as it was back in the 80s, when some of the current teachers were students at the school!

I was pleased to be able to assist John in securing this funding, which will bene t not only students from Trundle, but also other schools who use their lab.

The Trundle community are truly fortunate to have such a strong advocate, pas-

sionate educator and principal.

John always has his students and the community front and centre in his mind. I look forward to seeing the lab get its long overdue facelift.

It was lovely to also make a return visit to the Trundle Children’s Centre. There I officially congratulated the team on the $11,770 in grants funding they’re receiving for a new play area shade sail I supported.

This facility is so important to the community and helps prepare the kids for ‘big school’.

I also visited the Trundle War Memorial Hall School or Arts. I formally congratulated Secretary Kim White and President Andrew Rawsthorne in securing $10,000 grants funding which will go towards the purchase and installation of a hearing loop. Hearing impairment, especially among our elderly, contributes heavily to socially isolation.

It is hoped the hearing loop will help to encourage older residents who are hearing impaired to participate in events and meetings hosted at this historic site.

This is a great initiative, and I was pleased to help the project along.

While in Trundle I managed to get a sneak peek of Trundle’s first community gym last week, and of course I had to test the equipment while I was there.

The gym is now officially open, and it is located in the

rear of Trundle War Memorial Hall School of Arts.

This is a great initiative, and fantastic for the community who will be able to access it at all hours of the day. As I always say, an active community is a healthy community.

GUESS WHAT?

Unfortunately, NSW Parliament only allows me to have the one office – which most of you will know is located in Orange.

Whenever I have hosted constituent meetings and some events at Forbes and Parkes I have relied on the hospitality of the local council.

I’m truly grateful for the generosity of our current and former mayors of both Forbes and Parkes, who’ve kindly allowed me to use their facilities for these meetings and events, but for a long time I have wanted to establish a local shopfront to provide locals with a dedicated space to meet with me.

Well, late last year the opportunity finally arose and it all fell into place. I recently took possession of the keys to a new office, centrally located in Forbes. My face and name are now on the shopfront, so it’s a done deal!

Once it’s officially opened, I’ll let you all know and I will also be looking forward to taking appointments to meet with locals at my new Forbes office on scheduled dates.

A large crowd turned out for the opening the million dollar Trundle Forbes Street project while (right) High Nathaniel Kelly and Izaac Bolan enjoyed the swing. PHOTOS: David Ellery

Thank you to all who made Christmas special

LETTER

The Havannah House Christmas Lunch Committee would like to give a heartfelt thank you for all those involved in the preparation of the HH Christmas lunch.

They would also like to thank those who donated cash, toys, food, goods in kind.

This lunch would not be possible without the amazing generosity of this town.

It is a privilege to serve this community who continue despite the hardship that businesses and individuals have experienced with the oods over the last years.

We wish the community could see the faces of those that donate their time not just on Christmas Day but also Christmas Eve and a few days before as well, the generosity in the eyes of those who come and the smiles on their faces to help.

The donations of cash, toys, food and goods in kind come from businesses and individuals who have a generous heart toward those who may not be able to give to their children what they would like.

The Christmas lunch have people who would not necessarily have someone to share with or they may due to a disability of some kind unable to prepare a meal for themselves and their loved ones.

There are all kinds of reasons why Christmas is di cult for some, and it is a joy and a privilege that we spend Christmas Day with such beautiful people.

The Havannah House Christmas Committee

Happy new year from Sunshine Corner

Hi to all our Sunshine Club members.

Welcome to 2025. May we stay healthy during this year of our 100th year of the Royal Far West charity being in operation.

Thank you for supporting us through this month of January with us opening staggered hours. we appreciate your patience and support.

We are still running a sale on our ladies wear at 50 cents an item. Thank you for the support in this sale.

Our first meeting of 2025 will be on February 7, at 10am at our op shop in Templar Street Forbes.

At the present moment our pick up and deliveries will be by arrangement.

We are accepting donations of good quality linen, clothes, bric a brac, kitchenware and furniture.

Our birthday book is open and we hope you have had a fantastic birthday - or are planning to have one:

Marko’s Bailey, Marko’s Harry, Mickey Bill, The Runner, Marko’s Danny, Darby, Bubbly Beverly, Laynie, Isabella, Macka, Camp’s Brother, Uncle Bushy, Betty Boop, Edward’s Mum, Poppa’s Little Wag, Lainie Isabelle, Bevo, Eye of the Tiger, Little White Dove, Marko’s Wayne’s Hunter, Back Hoe King, Specky Two, Marko’s Danny’s Rachael, Just Vale, Boree. Best wishes to you all.

Please let us know of any updates needed to this birthday book, if anyone in our books has since passed away, we do apologise for this inclusion and please do let us know.

The Royal Far West op shop will be back to opening 9am to 3.30pm from February 5, 2025. Till then, stay safe, Reenie.

Deb Roylance and Muriel Lancaster preparing for the big day.

ABOVE RIGHT: Jesse Cartwright helping set up and (right) Ruth Barnes sharing the Christmas joy on December 25.

PHOTOS: Supplied

5.20 Kangaroo

6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00

9.00 Rage. 12.00

12.30 Beyond Paradise. 1.25 Optics. 1.55 Extraordinary Escapes. 2.45 Croc

With Steve Backshall. Final. 3.30

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Horse Racing. Southern Cross Stakes Day, Caulfield Members Day and Doomben Raceday. 5.30 Lunch Break. 6.10 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Australia. Day 4. Afternoon. 7.00 Dog Patrol. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 9.30 I Escaped To The Country. 10.30 Amazing Homes. 11.30 Late Programs.

4.25

6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.50 Robot Wars. 9.50 Doctor

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Cycling. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road 2.00 The Women’s Ashes Pre-Game Show. 2.30 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. Afternoon. 3.30 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Aust. Morning. 5.30 Border Security. 6.00 News. 7.00 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Aust. Afternoon. 8.10 Sri Lanka Vs Australia: Tea Break. 8.30 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Aust. Late arvo. 11.00 Late Programs.

5.30 Eat The Invaders. 6.00 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. 6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Beyond Paradise. 8.30 Vera. 11.35 Rage. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 4.20 Odd Squad. 4.45

6.00 Morning Programs. 3.00 Bathurst 12 Hour. Qualification and support races. 3.30 The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. Afternoon. 4.30 Tea Break. 5.00 The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. Late arvo. 7.00 Dinner Break. 7.30 The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. Evening session. 10.00 Late Programs.

4.00 A Bite To Eat. 4.30 MythBusters. 5.20 Love Your Garden. 6.10 Amazing Spaces. 7.00 Spicks And Specks. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (NZ) 8.50 Live At The Malthouse. 9.55 Ab Fab. 11.25 ER. 12.10 Late Programs.

6.00 Drive Safer. 6.30 A Current Affair. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 Attenborough’s Wonder Of Song. 1.30 MOVIE: The Dust Factory. (2004) 3.30 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo. 4.30 Explore TV. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Country House Hunters Australia. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: Elvis. (2022) Austin Butler. 10.35 Becoming Madonna. 12.25 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 Britain’s Got Talent. 2.00 The Food Trail. 3.00 Mesmerised. 3.30 Motor Racing. Bathurst 12 Hour. Qualification and support races. 4.30 Travel And Eat With Dan & Steph. 5.00 A Moveable Feast. 5.30 MOVIE: A Dog’s Way Home. (2019) 7.30 MOVIE: Grown Ups 2. (2013) 9.30 MOVIE: Last Cab To Darwin. (2015) 12.05 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Running Wild: Australia’s Camels.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Australia By Design: Innovations. 12.30 Exploring Off The Grid. 1.30 The Yes Experiment. 2.00 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures. 3.00 What’s Up Down Under. 3.30 Farm To Fork. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 Good Chef Bad Chef. 5.00 10 News First. 6.30 The Dog House Australia. 8.30 The Dog House. 9.30 Ambulance Australia. 10.30 Ambulance UK. 11.45 Late Programs.

6.00

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Avengers. 11.40

MOVIE: My Learned Friend. (1943) 1.10

MOVIE: The Oracle. (1953) 3.00 MOVIE: I’ll Take Sweden. (1965) 5.00 MOVIE: Some Like It Hot. (1959) 7.30 MOVIE: The Man In The Iron Mask. (1998) 10.00 Are You Being Served? 11.00 Tennis. Davis Cup. Australia v Sweden. Day 2. 5.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! 1.30 Cook With Luke. 2.00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield. 2.30 Basketball. NBL. Round 19. Sydney Kings v Perth Wildcats. 4.30 Good Chef Bad Chef. 5.00 10 News First. 6.00 The

6.00 Morning Programs. 6.10 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Australia. Day 5. Afternoon session. (Please note: alternative schedule may be shown due to changes to cricket coverage). 8.10 Sri Lanka Vs Australia: Tea Break. 8.30 Cricket. First Test. Sri Lanka v Australia. Day 5. Late afternoon session. 11.00 MOVIE: Underwater. (2020) 1.00 Late Programs.

7.00 Australian Idol. Return. 8.50 Billy Joel Live At Madison Square Garden. 10.50 April Jones: The Interrogation Tapes. 12.20 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road 4.00 The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. Afternoon. (Alt schedule may be shown). 4.30 Tea Break. 5.10 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. Late arvo. 7.10 Dinner Break. 7.30 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Aust v England. Evening session. 10.00 Late Programs.

to stay focused so that you don’t dissipate your energies.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) You’re eager to charge straight ahead into your new responsibilities. But you’ll have to paw the ground a little longer until a surprise complication is worked out.

GEMINI

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Reassure a longtime, trusted confidante that you appreciate their words of advice. But at this time, you need to act on what you perceive to be your own sense of self-interest.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Fishing Australia. 12.30 The Pet Rescuers. 1.00 Swimming. Australian Open Water Championships. Highlights. 1.30 MOVIE: Much Ado About Nothing. (1993) 3.50 David Attenborough’s Green Planet. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 RBT. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Married At First Sight. 8.40 60 Minutes. 9.40 9News Late. 10.10 See No Evil. 11.10 The Brokenwood Mysteries. 1.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Get Clever. 10.00 Dream Home. 11.30 My France With Manu. 12.30 Zumbo’s Just Desserts. 1.40 The Voice. 3.30 MOVIE: A Dog’s Way Home. (2019) 5.30 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. 6.30 Puppy School. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. 10.30 Bones. 12.30 Monk. 1.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 My Favorite Martian. 10.30 MOVIE: The Floating Dutchman. (1952) 12.05 MOVIE: Father’s Doing Fine. (1952) 1.50 MOVIE: The Constant Husband. (1955) 3.40 MOVIE: The Honey Pot. (1967) 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: The Monuments Men. (2014) 10.50 Chicago Med. 11.50 Late Programs.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) You need to let your warm Leonine heart fire up that new relationship if you hope to see it move from the “just friends” level to one that will be as romantic as you could hope for.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) There’s still time to repair a misunderstanding with an honest explanation and a heartfelt apology. The sooner you do, the sooner you can get on with other matters.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Expect a temporary setback as you progress toward your goal. Use this time to reexamine your plans and see where you might need to make some significant

Day

Australia Day started with breakfast by the lake in Forbes, many turning out to enjoy the morning in relaxed surrounds.

Familiar Rotary volunteers served up a great barbecue breakfast for several hundred people while the cafe was also kept busy.

In Eugowra activity centred

on the bowling club with the presentation of awards, yabby racing and inflatable fun Fitting for a scorcher of a day, the pool had free entry and Forbes offered the same. Forbes rounded out the day’s events with the party in the park, capped by the spectacular fireworks display off Bates Bridge at 9pm.

Volunteering to cook up breakfast with Rotary in Forbes were Geo Williams, Michael Jelbart and Karl Lupis.

enjoying some delicious breakfast by Lake Forbes.

Isaac, Danni, Brett, Shelley, Elizah, Emma, Curly and Kobie enjoying Australia Day morning on Lake Forbes.

Gail and Kevin McKay enjoying breakfast by the lake.

Cheryle and Clem Hodges, Colin Britt, Dave and Janelle Mattiske and (standing) Laurie Pietsch.

Pam Jackson and Loretta Dwyer at Forbes’ Australia

Sarah Savage.

(front) Kaiden and Amara at the party in the park.

Dione and Wal White enjoying Australia Day evening with

Maggie Dooley, Sadie Dooley, Lola Quirk and (front) Maggie White enjoying the party in the park.

Lette with her grandma Kathleen Haynes enjoying Sunday evening’s party in the park.

The Park family Matt, Tully, Stella, Daisy and Kellie enjoying Australia Day in Eugowra.

Townsend enjoying Australia Day celebrations in Eugowra.

Kerstin Heinzel and Rosemary Townsend enjoying Australia

Kim Storey, Liz Mitchell, Ruth Nielsen and Virginia Townsend at the Australia Day awards in Eugowra.

Barbara Brook celebrating her birthday with Di Brook and Val Maunder at the Australia Day breakfast in Forbes.

The Nicholson family Lana and Dan with Violet, Georgie, Lucy and Andie.

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

1 Which shortened Latin term means “for the time being” (3,3)

8 What is an orchestral composition forming the prelude to an opera (8)

9 Name a private or personal concern (6)

10 Which persons fix windows with glass (8)

11 What is a fleet of warships (6)

12 Name a coastal resort in SE France, on the Riviera (4)

13 Who wrote The War of the Worlds, and The Time Machine, H G ... (5)

16 Name late Australian Aboriginal rock singer, Archie ... (5)

19 What is a colloquial term for an earlier pound note (4)

21 When one circulates counterfeit money, one does what (6)

22 Which dog originated in Newfoundland, Canada (8)

23 Name a renowned US band leader, Woody ... (6)

24 Name a former English colony on the Atlantic coast of North America (8)

25 To have brought forward any point for discussion, is to have done what (6) DOWN

2 Name another term for an umpire (7)

Letters

Some

3 What is physical exertion, especially when painful (7)

4 Daniel who, was known as “Mad Dog” (6)

5 Name the owner of a rural property on which sheep or cattle are pastured (7)

6 Which contagious disease resembles scarlet fever (7)

7 Name a title applied to Jesus (7)

13 Name an English crime novelist, Edgar ... (7)

E-QUATIONS

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

14 Who was an Australian painter and sculptor, born in Russia, George ... (7)

15 What are sudden strong winds also called (7)

17 Toronto is the capital of which province in Southern Canada (7)

18 Name an alternative term for butchery (7)

20 Name a county in northeastern England (6)

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

1 AUTONYM

(a) Hallucination of an image of one’s body

(b) An author’s real name

(c) A true impress or copy of the original

2 EQUIVOCAL

(a) Of doubtful meaning

(b) Without ghorsereat variations (c) In the direction of the equinox

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: At the earliest (7) Desire strongly (5)

Each (5)

Fish (3)

Graph: ...-chart (3) Insect (3)

Irrefutable evidence (5) Letter (3)

Openings (5) Player piano (7)

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

Become part of the CWLL committee

By MARG APPLEBEE CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE

Join us for our Central West Lachlan Landcare Annual General Meeting!

Our Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held on Wednesday, February 5 at 5.30pm.

We are looking forward to providing a sum up of our 2023/24 year to our members and welcome attendance from Parkes or Forbes Shire residents who are interested in becoming more involved with CWLL.

As you may have seen, the last nancial year was an extremely busy time for us and the Committee provide the much needed voluntary support to everything that happens on a day to day basis. While I’m talking about our voluntary CWLL Commit-

tee….our Treasurer Maree Yapp has just been awarded Forbes Citizen of the Year!

Just one of our fabulous Committee Members who support Landcare and make a di erence in our commu nities.

We traditionally have held our AGM in September/Octo ber, but due to a changeover with our nancial reporting program, which was beyond our control, we sought an extension from the Depart ment of Fair Trading to en sure that our reporting is perfect. CWLL is a registered charity and an incorporated body, so accountability and transparency is crucial.

Our existing Commit tee have been instrumental in committing to support Homegrown Parkes as for the next two years.

Without their support, we would not be able to com-

like the Landcare Enabling Program, Biodiversity Conservation Trust Private Land Conservation Matters and People Led Preparedness, which have provided em-

awareness raising across the Region.

Importantly, moving forward, the Committee will provide a support network for our Regional Landcare

Carcase prices averaged 774c to 820c/kg

SHEEP SALE

Tuesday, January 28

Yarding 24,500 (down 2000)

Numbers fell this sale with agents yarding 24,500 head.

There was 17,450 lambs penned and quality was similar to that of previous sales.

There were good numbers of finished lambs offered along with the plainer types.

The usual buyers were present and competing in a fairly steady market that did fluctuate with quality.

Trade weight lambs held steady with 20-24 kg selling from $147 to $210/head.

Heavy lambs to 26kg

were firm to $2 better ranging from $192 to $224/head. Extra heavyweights received from $210 to $284/head.

Carcase prices averaged 774c to 820c/kg. Mutton numbers were made up of mostly Merinos and quality was very mixed.

Prices eased with Merino ewes selling from $65 to $153/head.

Crossbreds sold from $68 to $176 and Dorper ewes reached $130/ head.

Merino wethers received from $77 to $140/head. FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVESTOCK REPORTING AGENCY

tively in Parkes and Forbes Shires, usually at our o ce at Kelly Reserve or at the

We are very conscious unteers contribute each month and try to make meetings accessible via

mittee roles of Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Treasurer, Public O cer and Secretary, a Parkes Shire Councillor lor, plus three Committee

These positions allow me to focus more on Parkes and Forbes Shires. Our Committee commitment is one meeting per month.

age will be forwarded ahead of the AGM. For further information on this article, please go to www. centralwestlachlanlandcare. org, twitter, facebook or Instagram @cwllandcare

Central West Young Aggies tour

Join Central West Young Aggies for a farm tour at Parkes on Saturday, February 15.

Local farming family based in Parkes, Mark and Katrina Swi will be hosting the farm

Mark and Katrina are both Nu eld scholars and have traveled the world, learning more about decision making management and the use of AI to improve innovation and pro-

The farm tour will focus on all the ‘need to know’ questions you may have about fam-

From decision making for management to creating your business vision and up skilling, this farm tour is for all those interested in a future in

On the day you will have the opportunity to hear from multiple guest speakers on the day.

Claudia Mitchell will be speaking about decision making for management and Brooke Watts will be speaking on business vision and succession.

Brooke and Chiara from Central West Farming Systems will also be introducing their derisking the seeding program, connecting young farmers and agronomists.

The farm tour will run from 10am to 3pm and you can register your attendance online via hummanitix.

If you are interested in joining the Central West Young Aggies committee they will also be holding their AGM on the day.

There are multiple positions open and they look forward to welcoming new young aggies that are passionate about progressing our community.

forbeslivestock.com.au

Email us info@forbeslivestock.com.au

Phone us 02 6852 2299 Tim Mackay 0424 116 631 Randal Grayson 0428 287 020

Grace 0427 422 383

Casablanca a winner at Parkes

By COLIN HODGES

Eighty three years a er the movie Casablanca was rst screened, a handsome four year old chestnut gelding by the same name won a Maiden Handicap on Saturday at Parkes.

Set in Morocco and starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, the 1942 lm is regarded as a masterpiece and the owners who payed big money for the equine Casablanca were hopeful of Academy Award winning performances.

There was justi cation for the high price as Casablanca was by the champion sire Snitzel and from the ATC Australian Oaks winner Rising Romance.

Adding further to the sales ring appeal, the Arrow eld stud bred Casablanca was a full brother to the team Hawkes trained lly Yearning, winner of the Group 1 Caul eld 1000 Guineas when ridden by Damien Thornton and placed 3 times in Group 2 races, the Edward Manifold, Armanasco and Lets Elope Stakes.

But alas, the hoped for rewards did not eventuate and Casablanca knocked down for $1.4 million to TFI/Kia Ora stud at the 2022 Inglis Easter Yearling Sale was sold again for $11,000 in 2024 through the online Inglis Digital platform to clients of the Dubbo trainer Cindy Monaghan.

Angus Barlow a Dubbo based stock and station agent who doubles as a livestock market reporter on ABC radio is now a part owner of Casablanca and takes up the story.

“Originally trained by Gerald Ryan and Sterling Alexiou at Rosehill, Casablanca with no luck a er 3 starts was transferred to Stuart Kendrick at the Gold Coast where the best result from 2 starts was a second on the poly track,“ Angus Barlow said.

“Entered for the April 2024 Inglis on line sale, shrewd horse investor Tim Moses from Dubbo snapped up Casablanca for $11,000 a er making enquiries with Brisbane jockey Michael Cahill.”

“Tim then formed a syndicate to race Casablanca with trainer Cindy Monaghan and a er a couple of dismal runs it was deemed to need the tie back operation.”

“The operation was performed, the horse was put back in work and presto, a good win at Parkes”, Angus Barlow related.

(Shayleigh Ingelse, $41).

Ridden by Nick Heywood in the 1200 metres Parkes Farm Centre/Kennards Hire Maiden Handicap, Casablanca jumped quickly and led for home.

Donna Emilia ((Dylan Stanley, $19) nished well but was beaten a nose by Casablanca ($12) with threequarters of a length to the third placed Rebel Flyer

Keenly awaited was the appearance of the highly promising galloper Zarizatycoon in the 1400 metres Parkes Couriers/Standen Building Class 2 Handicap. Trained at Bathurst by Gayna Williams, Zarizatycoon had looked well above average when leading throughout to win at Narromine and Mudgee, how-

ever bled when unplaced at Rosehill.

Following the mandatory time away from racing, Zarizatycoon resumed over 1280 metres at Orange and a er travelling wide nished less than a length from the winner Nomorenightshi , the Mack Gri th trained 4 times a winner, half brother to Zarizatycoon.

Away quickly from an out-

side barrier at Parkes, Zarizatycoon was eased back and at the 600 metres trailed the leading trio by several lengths.

Expertly ridden by Clayton Gallagher, Zarizatycoon ($1.65 favourite) gained an opening at the top of the straight and broke clear for a comfortable win by over a length from Extravagant Choice (Ellen Hennessy,

$21) and Lockadente (Claire Ramsbotham, $13).

A big ve year old gelding, Zarizatycoon looks to be still learning how to gallop and with further improvement is forecast to win plenty more races.

The good crowd on Saturday has Parkes Jockey Club o cials looking forward to the Parkes Cup meeting on Sunday, May 18.

Hot golf scores match weather

MEN’S GOLF

By SHORT PUTT

On Saturday the forecast hot weather continued the trend from the week.

However, the Forbes golfers were not daunted, producing some hot scores of their own.

The Mens competition on Saturday was an Individual Stableford event, sponsored by Rob Allen Livestock Transport. The field of 51 players, down in numbers due to the long weekend and the forecast, produced a range of scores in conditions that thankfully did not include the strong winds of the previous week.

The Div-1 required a count back to determine the winner after Andrew Dukes and Harry Callaghan both finished on 41 points. Andrew played steadily on the front-9 scoring 19 points and then had a rollercoaster ride in the back-9.

He mixed 3-pointers with 1-pointers and a smattering of 2- and 4-pointers to score 22 points.

Runner-up Harry had a similar start, although more consistent, to score 20 points. His back-9 was also steady with 2- and 3-pointers all the way. He claimed he found the greens ‘easy’ today. But it was not enough to oust Andrew who took the win.

The Div-2 was a much easier case to decide. Cooper Byrnes was the winner with 40 points. He had a rough start with three 1-pointers in the first four holes but steadied to score 18 points. On the back-9 his consistent score was 3-pointers with only one blemish on the 11th hole to score 22 points in his total of 40.

‘2’. He was in the last group of the day, spoiling the effort by Jeff House who played much earlier.

The Div-2 Runner-up was Nick J Morrison whose 35 points led a big pack of chasers. He had a rough front-9 starting with a miss but really connected on the back-9 where he had numerous 2and 3-pointers. This gave him the runner-up spot on count back from Frank Hanns and Les Little, with a crowd of four players on 34 points in hot pursuit.

The ball sweep went to 35 points, going to: 40 – L Whitfield; 39 – N Duncan, D Churchill; 38 – S Vaughan, F Melisi; 37 – C Hanrahan, A Matthews; 36 – P Dawson; 35 – J House, B Ashton, F Hanns, P Maher and L Little. There were two visitors – Sam Vaughan (Charlestown GC) and Cooper Nielsen (Bathurst GC). They both enjoyed the course and scored handsomely.

The NTP’s went to: 9th – D Rhodes; 18th – P Dawson. Both managed their 2’s. Overall there were nine 2’s, with the 18th proving most prolific recording five of them. Seven were scored by Div1 players and two by Div-2 players.

The 3rd hole Super-Pin was a ‘deja vue’ experience for Nick Morrison whose shot to 231 cm was inside his distance of last week. And just like last week he missed his

The best Scratch score was a 69 by Caleb Hanrahan, followed by Peter Dawson and Harry Callaghan (71’s) and Andrew Dukes (72). Caleb played par-golf on the front-9 with a bogey on the 4th countered by birdies on the 2nd and 5th. Two birdies on the back-9 with a plethora of pars cemented an excellent round.

George Falvey was at the course early and eager to play but unfortunately was called away, so he could not improve on his ‘Bradman’ achievement of the previous week. Brian Clarke had a better day but Dave Bernardi had one to forget. Stuart French had returned from an overseas trip and surprised himself with a good round of golf. It shows the value of relaxation – so don’t play golf. At the other end of the spectrum was Ecky Dawson. He started his round well when his tee shot on the 1st hole struck the pin where the ball almost dropped into the hole but instead settled for an easy putt for a ‘2’. On the 18th hole his tee shot again struck the pin, from where his ball drifted slightly away. However, it stopped barely 10 cm inside the NTP marker thus depriving Jeff House of that honour.

In fact, Jeff House had a bizarre game. He scored 1-under for all the par-3’s, hit 2

balls OB on the second, lost one ball in the water on 15 but still managed ‘2’ points, had a shocker on 14 but scored another five pars. And he missed out on two prizes. Peter Barnes had a similar day, scoring the same number of points for his 18-holes that other players scored for their 9-holes.

The friendly competitive nature of golf where players in a group are battling for the ‘Keno’ ticket can lead to close finishes or complete drubbings. An example of the latter was one group where a pairing combined like ‘Torvill and Dean’ to score a resounding 7-5 drubbing. The players shall remain nameless but never let it be said that old warhorses like Pete Grayson and Brian Doyle do not give up without a fight, or gentlemen like Niel Duncan and Bruce Chandler do not gloat over drinks.

Unfortunately, the day was interrupted by slow play by a group who did not remember the etiquette of golf and call the following groups through if they themselves are having trouble, like lost balls.

Players are remined to remember the etiquette of golf, to be aware of groups behind them, and to follow the Rules of Golf, especially with respect to time limits for recovery situations. We are not a ‘larger urban area’ club but we must still look to each other when playing.

There was no play in the Sunday Stableford Medley

and too few players in the Monday Stableford Medley to make a comp. And likewise, no play in the Wednesday Stableford Medley comp.

Here is the News:

The Mens Pennants season starts on Sunday 2 Feb with our Div 2 and Div 3 teams in action. The Div 2 team play Parkes and the Div 3 play SMCP, both at Duntryleague. The Div 1 team don’t start until February 16.

The Summer Sixes competition rolls on with Week 11 again producing good scores. Refer to the separate report for details.

Don’t forget the Taylor Made Equipment Demo day organised for Wednesday 12 Feb by Head Pro Will. Comments about the design of the new equipment are very complimentary. Contact him at the Pro Shop if you want a session.

It is crystal ball time:

This Saturday, 1 Feb, will be the Monthly Medal an Individual Stroke, sponsored by Terry Bros Carpets. The hot weather is expected to continue but will be bearable. And there is the usual Sunday Stableford Medley comp.

SUMMER SIXERS

By SMOOTH SWINGER

Round 11 of the sponsored Forbes Golf Club Summer Sixers competition was played under hot conditions that encouraged players to

nett score was made by Veronica Rebellato (Flip Floppers) with 30 nett. The Best non-member nett score was made Dylan Biles (Top 5) with 30.5 nett, and on count back from Alan McLennan (Globe Hotel).

The ball sweep went to 35 nett. As usual balls for members will go onto their account while non-members can get theirs from the Pro Shop.

The golfers are showing an aptitude to playing in hot weather so there should be some outstanding results this week. Remember to keep the fluids up.

Remember, swing easy.

VETS GOLF

Forbes’ Andrew Grierson produced one of the best rounds in vets golf for some time when he shot a one-under 71 at the twin-towns veterans competition at Parkes last week.

On a day where the temperature was hot and the scoring hotter, Grierson’s sub-par round saw him return 44 points for the 18 holes to win by three points from fellow Forbes golfer Peter Grayson who took the runners-up prize on a countback from Parkes’ John Dwyer.

get out real early or much later. The outcome was that those teams scoring consistently managed wins.

Unfortunately, the hot weather did cause a couple of teams to not record a score but it gave their opponents a good chance at some practice. Despite that the team winning scores were very similar in all Groups.

In Group 1 the best score was made by Globe Hotel who managed 102.5, who reversed their loss of last week. They beat Duffers by a 5 point margin. Blackridge Hire and Dragoness also had wins, both comfortably. Group 2 saw the closest games and the lowest score.

Flip Floppers produce the best score (99) to hand EHAG a defeat with their 107. Grant Howell AE (105.5) scrapped past The Foxes (106) while Walkers AgnVet (103) nudged out Forbes Auto (104). Gunn Golf (102) had the bye but still played well.

Group 3 saw Murray’s Mates, with the best group score of 108, record a win over Southside Swingers (109.5). Murray’s Mates retain top spot while 2nd placed LIV (111.5) also had a win, over Midpro (158).

LITT won the grudge match against HD&SI quite comfortably. The lowest score in Group 4 was made by Sandbaggers (99.5) who knocked Six Appeal. The other winners were Still Trying, Part Time Putters and Top 5.

The Rnd 11 Best member

Grierson’s playing partners attributed his great round to his calm demeanor, new-look flowing locks and new golf outfit which stood him out from the field. His round included four birdies - the third, fourth, ninth and 11th holes - and three bogeys.

Forbes again provided the bulk of the 32 players with 21 starters to Parkes’ 11, however the home side pushed them all the way to go down by 227 to 226 points in the twin-towns shield for the best six scores from both sides.

In the nearest-to-pins playing partners Barry Shine (Forbes) and Johnh Dwyer left it to the last hole to claim the honors in A and B grade on the fourth hole, while Kim Herbert (F) and John Pearce (P) were the A and B grade winners on the 11th. Forbes’ John Milton won the encouragement award.

The ball sweep went to 35 points with winners as follows: 41 points - John Dwyer (P); 39 - Rob Cheney (P); 38 - Richard Hamilton (P) and Steve Uphill (F); 37 - John Fowler (P); 36 - Barry Shine (F); 35 - Nym Dziuba (P).

The vets return to Forbes this week with entries taken from 8.30am for a 9am shotgun start. Due to the funeral service for the late Alison Lockhart last Tuesday where a majority of Tuesday social golfers attended it was decided that no competition was to take place.

But it is back on this week with the new time for ball toss of 8.30am scheduled. So, to be part of this casual walk in good company be there. Everyone is welcome, the beginner to the ‘pros’, male, female, young and old.

Alf Davies, Laurie O’Connor and Dave Mylecharane halfway through their round in the sun.

PHOTO: Short Putt

Our Sportsperson of the Year named in 2024 was Georgia Cole.

SOYA nominations due January 31

Nominations for the 2024 Forbes Sportsperson of the Year Awards close this Friday and there is no better time to nominate a sporting champion.

Sporting heroes does always have to be participants - they can be administrators, coaches, trainers, referees or officials.

Go online to the Forbes Sportsperson of the Year

Association on Facebook to find the nomination form and required details, there are award categories for: Senior Sportsperson

Junior Sportsperson (under 18 as of January 1, 2025) Team Coach / Trainer Administration Referee/Umpire/Official All Rounder

Include details of the nomi-

nee’s major sporting achievements of the past 12 months, as well as other sports the nominee was involved in.

You can return nominations via email to morrisonaj68@gmail.com or fax 02 6851 1146.

The night will also see the celebration of the Central West Credit Union Junior Sports Achievers and school sports achievers.

Roll up for bowls comps

By TARA SHAW

The Major Pairs Championship is about to kick o at the Forbes Sports and Recreation Club or bowlie, with the draw being completed and on the board, the rst game to be played on or before February 9. With 16 teams nominated it will be a great competition over the next few weeks. Who will be the 2025 Champs?

On another note, Pennants bowls round 1 starts on February 16 with Forbes coming up against Condobolin to be played in Condobolin.

In preparation for Pennants, 16 pennants players are heading to Caragabal on Thursday January 30 to play against Grenfell top teams. Wednesday social bowls

They make ‘em tough out the Bogan Gate way if the welcome to last Wednesday morning bowls is any indication with the ever chirpy Bill Looney asking ‘where are all the bowlers, it’s not that hot. Just a good ‘ol summers day’. For 12 it was play as normal with three games of pairs where card draw winners were Noel Jolli e and Lyall Strudwick 30-12 winners over 20 ends playing Geo West and Laurie Crouch. A six on end 10 kicked them out to lead 13-6 which was followed by ve end of three’s.

Also over 20 ends had Bill Scott and Sue White winning 16-10 over Mr Looney and Kerry Dunstan leading 11-0 a er seven.

To their credit Bill and Kerry did make some sort of a game out of it winning the run home 10-5.

In the last Tim Everest and Paul Doust won 25-17 over

22 ends playing Eddie Gould and John Gorton.

They also started best, 8-0 a er four then 16-11 at halftime before 8-1 in the last seven ends. No in-club ra e.

Thursday bowls - The weather was a little warm on Thursday a ernoon and it showed. You couldn’t keep 10 dedicated bowlers o the greens though.

Ben Parslow and Cherie Vincent drew against Tara Shaw and Clint Hurford.

A very slow start for Tara and Clint with only having 5 points on the board against 15 on 11.

They tried their best and closed the gap but Cherie and Ben took out the win 2219.

Our triples games was played by Ange Dwyer, Billy Cowell and Scott McKellar coming up against Max Vincent, Dale Maynard and Dennis Byrnes.

Big numbers to start the game and put Bill’s team in a great position leading 14-0 in 4. There was no slowing them down with the sweet smell of victory and kept Denni’s to single gures. Bill’s teams won the game with nal score 21-9.

Winning Rink was Rink 3 – Ange Dwyer, Billy Cowell and Scott McKellar.

Resting touchers: Ben Parslow, Tara Shaw, Cherie Vincent, Clint Hurford.

Jackpot did not go o and will increase next week.

SUPER SATURDAY Whilst a lot of people get away for a long weekend, 16 bowlers participated in Super Saturday Social bowls.

Two games of 10 ends and there was a clear winner. For second place with equal ends won it was done on a count

back of margins between the games.

Overall winners were Ron Thurlow and Dennis Byrnes. Second place, Billy Cowell and Christian West, third place, Tara Shaw and Bert Bayley.

Resting touchers for the day were awarded to Bert Bayley and Tara Shaw. Raspberries were awarded to Scott McKellar and Laurie Crouch.

Sunday Social bowls/Australia Day - A great roll up for our Australia Day/ Sunday social bowls morning. 34 players in total which included Anne Maria and Craig Phyllis, Phil and Venesa Webster, Tony Dicks and Pod Phillips, Wayne and Lynne Hayhow all the way from Darwin.

Winning rink was won by Peter Mackay and Bert Bayley. Losing rink was won by Melinda Merritt, Joyce Gray and Chris Hodge.

Whilst there were no resting touchers recorded there were plenty of raspberries. The Jackpot rink drawn out was rink 3 – they needed to draw a 7 and button pushed by Anthony Wilson saw himself, Tara Shaw, James Johansson and John Markwart the lucky ones to share in $600 jackpot.

Chicken ra e winners: Anne Marie Phyllis, Mitch Andrews, Justin Sci eet, Pod Phillips x 2, Sue White, Pooch Dukes, John Cutler and Linda Merritt. Coming up: Nominations are now open for the Forbes Open Easter Bowls Carnival starting Friday, April 18. Nominations to Tara Shaw, details and form available on the Forbes Sports and Recreation Club Facebook page or contact the club.

Many good scores as croquet players take to courts

On Saturday January 25 Aussie Croquet was played with 27 in at tendance.

Many good scores recorded as follows:

One runaway score May Jones (Solo) def Ros Rennick & Robin Pols.

14/13 scores as follows: Bruce Field & John Browne def Bill Scott & John Cole, Ros Rennick & Cheryl Toohey def Harley Stewart & John Farah, John Browne & Geo Coles def Bill Scott & Allan Jones.

14/12 Rex Toole & Cheryl Toohey def Geo Coles & Allan Jones, John Farah & Enid Baker def Dorelle Scott & David Williams, Harley Stewart (solo) def Russell Ander son (solo), John Cole & Peter West def John Allegri & Fay Picker.

14/11 Russell Anderson & Pe ter West def Kevin Rubie & Fay Picker, Robin Pols & John Allegri def Joan Littlejohn & Noel Jolliffe, Elvy Quirk & Frank Donohoe def Kevin Wenning & Harley Stewart, John Browne & Elvy Quirk def David Williams & John Farah, Bill Scott & Cheryl Toohey

Bruce Field & Elvy Quirk whilst two games were won by John Cole, Geo Coles, Robin Pols, Kevin Rubie, Cheryl Toohey, Rex Toole & Peter West. Congratulations to those

On Saturday it was lovely to see Joan Littlejohn & Ros Rennick back playing a er a break away.

Cherylin Cole remains hospitalised however there is better news on the horizon as she is able to have some gate leave. Best wishes

On Tuesday January 28 Golf Croquet was played with only 27 in attendance and it was thought due to the very hot day.

8/5 scores as follows: May Jones & Mal Smith def Bruce Field & Geo Coles, John Allegri & Fay Picker def Lyall Strudwick & Frank Donohoe, Russell Anderson & John Cole def Helen Lupis & Marie Spry, Bill Scott & Noel Jolli e def Geo Coles & John Browne, Frank Donohoe & Sally Perry def Elvy Quirk & Russell Anderson, Robin Pols & Ray Burridge def Margaret Dent & Lyall Strudwick, Neil Gilmour & Peter West def Robin Pols & Russell Anderson.

There were also many 7/6 scores on the day.

Three games were won by Noel Jolli e, Kevin Rubie, Ray Burridge & John Cole.

14/10 Bruce Field & Fay Picker def Robin Pols & Vince Roberts, May Jones & Bruce Field def Frank Donohoe & Enid Baker.

All three games on Saturday were won by John Browne, May Jones,

def Ros Rennick & Allan Jones, Kevin Rubie & Rex Toole def Enid Baker & John Allegri, May Jones & Geoff Coles def Frank Donohoe & Kevin Wenning, Dorelle Scott & John Cole def Noel Jolliffe & Peter West, Kevin Rubie & Noel Jolliffe def Kevin Wenning & Russell Anderson, Elvy Quirk & Robin Pols def Rex Toole & Vince Roberts.

There were only a couple of runaway scores recorded. 10/3 John Farah & John Allegri def Helen Lupis & Sue Jolli e, Kevin Rubie & Peter West def Marie Spry & Bruce Field.

9/4 scores Kevin Rubie & John Cole def Peter West & Bill Scott, Noel Jolli e (solo) def Margaret Dent & Kevin Wenning, Frank Donohoe & Mal Smith def Elvy Quirk & Fay Picker.

Two games won by John Allegri, Frank Donohoe, Neil Gilmour, Fay Picker, Robin Pols , Bill Scott & Peter West.

It was lovely to see Sally Perry grace the Croquet lawns again after a hip replacement which went really well. Well done Sally and so pleased to see you back playing.

Stay cool, stay safe.

Contributed by ELVY QUIRK

Junior basketball back on court

Basketball is bouncing back!

Kids have taken to the courts to learn new skills with Basketball NSW ahead of the launch of a local junior competition.

There were plenty of eager participants, so it’s hoped a junior competition will be up and running on Monday afternoons this term.

Come-and-try clinics were hosted on Red Bend Catholic College’s under cover court, with Basketball NSW development officer Andrew James and assistant coach Mel Sullivan getting eager players set with the basic skills.

They had the chance to test them in games straight up - starting with one-onone contests on court.

The session was free and the players all took home a ball to keep working on their new skills.

Forbes Basketball Association is planning a registration day at the start of Term 1: follow them on Facebook for the details.

Once they have numbers they’ll be able to set times, the plan is for games Monday afternoons with Aussie Hoops available for the four to seven-year-olds.

They’d welcome more people and volunteers, especially if there are some people who can help with

Pickleball comes to Forbes courts

America’s fastest-growing sport has come to Forbes!

Yes, you can now take up a racquet and join a social game of pickleball at Forbes tennis club on Thursday evenings.

Pickleball is played with a small, solid paddle and a plastic perforated ball on a small hard court.

It’s just a really fun game that people of all ages can learn really quickly, the organisers at Forbes tennis club say.

Forbes tennis coach Peter Cli on says the club rst started o ering pickleball

on social tennis nights last year, and it’s been easy for players to adapt.

Pickleball, which originated in the US in the 1960s, is a bit of a mix between tennis, badminton and table tennis.

With underarm serves and a court designed to hold back those hard volleys at the net, it can be enjoyed by all ages and abilities and it can become fast and competitive.

With a new year ush of new interest and players, it’s proven easy to learn and new players are always welcome at the courts.

You can play singles but most popular is doubles.

Come along to Forbes tennis club from 7pm on a Thursday evening to be part of the fun.

Forbes tennis club’s night competition resumed this week, and will continue in A and B Grades for the next ve weeks.

Interested in a game? Look up Forbes Town and District Tennis Club or Peter Cli on Tennis Coaching on facebook, or email forbestennisclub@gmail.com. au

Eva-Rose Sullivan and Clara Wood were helping Matilda West and Matilda Rees learn some new skills.

Ted Sheather, Harry Rosser and Axel

Leo Sheather and Clyde Sheather battle it out on the basketball court.

Harry’s big hitting Super 8s finale

A whopping 33 runs o the last over - a six on the last ball - saw Battapi win Saturday’s Super 8s cricket carnival in absolutely sizzling style.

Harry Leadbitter showed no signs of pressure as he stepped up to the crease with his team requiring 29 runs in the nal over to chase down the total of 100 set by MidPro.

He sent the ball sailing over the boundary for six no less than ve times o the last seven balls he faced to secure the win.

Saturday saw the return of the Forbes District Cricket Association carnival with 10 teams lining up to compete in a huge day at Botanical.

There were some close games, crazy batting totals and terri c bowling gures.

Forbes Battapi went through the day undefeated, nishing at the top of Pool B and meeting VCR from Pool A in their semi- nal.

MidPro topped Pool A and took on Kiacatoo from Pool B in their seminal.

This set up an absolute blockbuster of a grand nal for the late a ernoon.

Midpro Engineering elected to bat rst and set a strong total of 6/100 o their 8.0 overs, this total guided by knocks from Bailey Edwards 28 and Darren Riches 36.

Forbes Battapi set with the task of run chasing.

With a slow start to their innings, Angus King and Ky O’Byrne at the crease contributing totals of 27 & 33 to bring them into the frame of requiring 29 runs o the last over for victory.

Harry Leadbitter nished the innings with a rapid- re 38 not out, securing a thrilling victory with a 6 on the nal ball.

He was named player of the nal, and team mate Kye O’Byrne the player of the day.

Highest individual scores for the day were Frazer Du 100*; Toby Hurford 91* and Jordan Wright 86*.

BEDGERABONG

Engineering (back) Bailey Edwards, Jarrod McDean, Darren Riches, Jacob Molloy, Joe Dukes (front) Mat Townsend, Matt Wright, Jack Brown.