FA20250213

NEXT GENERATION OF KINDERS BEGIN THEIR BIG SCHOOL JOURNEY

A NEW school year has begun and a new generation of kinders just like cousins Olive Stewart, Izzy Dobell and Alice Dobell (pictured) who were very excited to start kinder together at St Laurence’s. Playgrounds and classrooms were abuzz last Thursday as children set down their bags and began to explore their new classrooms. Many families came in to mark the milestone and we’ve captured some of smiling faces, enjoy the photos on pages 6 and 7 of this edition.

Records crumble

Aussie Biscuits bakes 272,000 twin packs of treats in month

Forbes’ Aussie Biscuits has smashed sales records - pumping out more than 272,000 twin packs of its buttery treates in one month.

The disability enterprise in November broke its record for most productive month by 15 per cent and increased busines revenue by 30 per cent.

And yes, their delicious jam drops remain the most popular biscuit.

Aussie Biscuits reopened its online shop and shopfront in January, a er closing since June 2024 while the business worked through big corporate orders and dealt with a series of equipment issues.

Since it was hit with oods in December 2022, Aussie Biscuits has focused on rebuilding both its bricks and mortar and its team.

Production Coordinator Damian

Little said it’s taken time.

“We’re rapt with the growing support of big businesses, particularly coming from the accommodation sector,” he said.

“We’ve seen strong growth in the hotel sector where more chains like Best Western are looking to stock products with a purpose like Aussie Biscuits.”

Continued page 3

CatholicCare’s Aboriginal art competition returns

Aboriginal community members of western NSW are invited to put paint to canvas for the 2025 CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes Aboriginal Art Competition.

A total prize pool of $4000 is on offer for the best original works.

CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes has launched the competition to discover and recognise emerging Aboriginal artists in western NSW.

Entries close on Monday March 31, 2025.

CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes chief executive o cer Anne-Marie Mioche said the organisation was pleased to hold the competition for the fourth time.

She is encouraging emerging Aboriginal artists living in the Diocese of Wilcannia-Forbes, or in communities where its services are available, to enter.

“Each time we’ve held this competition, we’ve received some truly awesome and inspiring entries,” Ms Mioche said.

“We started this competition in 2019 because we knew there was unrecognised talent in our vast region, and we wanted to showcase these artists.

“In 2023 the competition attracted 14 entries from across our region, and two impressive artworks tied for rst place.”

WHAT’S

The competition o ers the prize pool to encourage emerging Aboriginal artists to create and share meaningful artworks that show the rich Aboriginal culture and artistry in western NSW.

The winner of rst prize will re-

ceive $2000, while second prize is $1500 and third prize is $500.

Previous winning artworks have subsequently featured in CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes branding and publications.

Ms Mioche said the competition was warmly embraced by her team.

ON in and around Forbes

BEDGERABONG PICNIC RACES

Saturday, February 15

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 calendars 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.

FLOOD RECOVERY CHECK IN Wednesday, February 26

It is more than two years since the oods. This free session will help participants to manage thoughts and feelings commonly experienced two years a er a natural disaster, and identify potential risks during this recovery stage. For many, life is nding a new sense of normal, but for others, recovery continues to be a struggle. It can feel like things are getting harder. This night is presented by Phil Worrad from the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program with Legal

From the mayor’s desk

It is great to see some of the many projects we have happening in our town hitting milestones in their development.

If you have driven past Spooner Oval recently you would have seen the structural steel of its new grandstand going up.

This marks a significant milestone in the project, and we will now start seeing the rest of this facility take shape, including the exterior of the building, interior fit outs and the installation of the seats.

The project is on track to be completed by September this year and is going to be literally gamechanger for sport in Forbes once it’s done.

Coming up

“I always feel excitement at the arrival of new entries, and I know our team members do as well,” she said.

“We love viewing the artworks and learning the story behind them.”

The full information pack is available here: https://tinyurl.com/mrck-

53an

www.forbesadvocate.com.au

Aid, Reconstruction NSW, NSW Ambulance and Council attending. It’s at the Forbes Rugby Club, Gordon Du Drive, from 5pm6.30pm. RSVP by text to Phil 0436 921 076.

WELCOME TO FORBES

Thursday, February 27

The next welcome to Forbes event is on Thursday 27 February at the Vandenberg Hotel from 5:30pm. Welcome to Forbes welcomes new members of the Forbes community to the amazing town and locals. Meet new residents, sporting and community groups. Please RSVP by February 20 to events@forbes.nsw. gov.au or 6850 2300.

WIRRINYA AQUATIC CLUB

COCKTAIL EVENING

March 1

Experience an incredible evening by the scenic Wirrinya ski dam! Savour delicious woodred 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

CENTRAL WEST FARMING LUNCH

Friday, March 7

Central West Farming Systems

JOURNALISTS

is hosting a free ladies lunch & learn in Forbes. Presenters include Diana Fear - CEO of CWFS, Chiara Stommel - Trials Agronomist and Carbon Farming Outreach Trainers will partner with Emma Ayli e - a highly respected local agronomist to better understand carbon farming through the support of the National Industry-led Carbon Farming Outreach Program. Questions to Brooke on 0428 039 273 or Brooke.watts@dpi.nsw.gov. au Bookings are essential through trybooking.com

We are pleased to be a partner in the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program event on Wednesday 26 February at the Forbes Rugby Club. The aim of this event is to check in with our community on how we are tracking two years after the floods.

Come along and have a chat to the services attending and get a free blood pressure and glucose check.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

Saturday, March 8

Save the date to celebrate International Women’s Day 2025March Forward with breakfast at Lions Park from 7am to 10am. Tickets are available online through 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 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

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BEDGERABONG PICNIC RACES SAT, FEBRUARY 15

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. Tickets online 123tix.com.au

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.

We have our Welcome to Forbes event the next day on Thursday 27 February at the Vandenberg Hotel. This is for all new residents of Forbes and is a great chance to get to know your councillors, other new residents, local community groups and sporting organisations.

Welcome to Forbes events are lovely occasions as we really enjoy welcoming new people to town.

We will be celebrating International Women’s Day on Saturday 8 March with a breakfast at Lions Park. We are excited to announce we will have two inspirational guest speakers – Kelly Foran and Belinda Mawhinney.

Kelly is the founder and CEO of Friendly Faces Helping Hands, which helps rural families through health crises, and Belinda is a leadership consultant who strives to improve workplace culture.

It’s sure to be another inspiring occasion – make sure to book your ticket! Please see our website for details about all these events.

God Bless, Phyllis Miller OAM

visual arts teacher Tracie Axton (le ).

PHOTO: Supplied

a chat to the services

the Vandenberg Hotel.

Enjoy the Forbes Show? Join AGM and be part of it

It’s time to get the show on the road!

The 2025 Forbes Show that is: and it all begins with the or ganisation’s AGM next Tuesday, February 18.

The annual meeting is on from 6.30pm at the Vandenberg Hotel and outgoing president Pip Perry is encouraging those who enjoy our annual show to take the rst steps to being part of it by coming along.

Mr Perry, who’s been involved in the local show for more than 50 years, has announced he won’t be able to put his hand up for another term as president and he’d love to see more locals involved.

The very rst Forbes Show was in 1874 and the event has a

show - by our gate numbers and good entries it’s always popular,” Mr Perry said.

Agricultural aspects of the Show such as young judges events and school show teams continue to grow, and the pavilions are always full of art and baking, cra s and owers.

The ring events continue to draw good numbers and one of the things Mr Perry would like to do this year is bring the popular showjumping closer to the spectators.

Forbes Show made the shi to a one-day event last year with all events focussed on the Saturday, and welcomed a good crowd in good weather.

“We’re looking forward to another good show year, and it all

starts with the AGM,” Mr Perry said.

Mr Perry has been involved with the show since he was young: lending a hand wherever it was needed whether that was the showjumping arena or on the cattle committee.

He joined the committee of the PA and H Association in 1973 and has now served as its president in three separate stints over the decades.

As passionate as Mr Perry remains about this established local event, he’s keen to see the next generation bring their ideas and their skills to the table as well.

“I’d like to stay involved but it’s time for a bit of new blood,” he said.

Records crumble in Aussie Biscuits’ big month

From page 1

Damian said the team had overcome hurdles including equipment breakdown and just all getting to know one another through an in ux of large corporate orders.

“There’s a lot of new faces who naturally have needed time to learn the ropes and become embedded into the team,” Damian said.

“This has meant we needed to taper back on our engagement with the public through our website and shop to give us space to get back on our feet.

“We are incredibly proud to have achieved such an amazing result, especially considering we haven’t been taking online orders, and our physical shop has been closed.”

Aussie Biscuits has a strong focus on business development.

“With continued support from companies like commercial co ee company Espresso Services, and new business growth from cleaning supplier Veridia and real estate company BGIS, we have seen impressive growth in our results.

“Attending large events like the No Vacancy expo over the last few years has signi cantly increased awareness of the business,” Damien said.

With the website back in business and the shop front getting ready to open its doors soon, Aussie Biscuits is excited to see what 2025 will bring.

“We’re looking at product development and environmentally sustainable packaging, which we hope will help us get on the radar of even more big clientsthis year,” Damian said.

Of course, at the heart of Aussie Biscuits is its team, sta like Daniel Jones and Wayne Christensen (pictured right).

Daniel has been working with Aussie Biscuits for 27 years and Wayne 16 years.

While Daniel’s favourite biscuit is the shortbread and Wayne’s the jam drop, they agree on the best thing about working at Aussie Biscuits: it’s the people and the team they work with.

A VEHICLE was destroyed by fire in the early hours of last Thursday morning.

Police are appealing for information or any witnesses after the vehicle was locatedablaze - in the vicinity of Morton and Edward streets. NSW Fire and Rescue attended and extinguished the flames.

Police are also investigating an attempted ram raid on a local business and a break-in at a home in the early hours of Wednesday, February 5.

Offenders in a vehicle only described as white in colour have attempted to break into a Lachlan Street car dealership about 2.40am. Police would like to hear from anyone in the community who witnessed the incident or has information about it.

A house in Barton Street was broken into in the early hours of February 5, offenders entering the home and stealing a vehicle.

Anyone with any information on these matters or that can help police in their investigations can contact Forbes police station on 6853 9999 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Police are appealing for information about power tools and equipment believed to be stolen.

Last Friday, police attended London Road near Parkes and spoke to the occupant of a Ford Territory parked there.

Aussie Biscuits thanks the community for ongoing support.

Flood Recovery Check In Forbes Shire Council invites all residents impacted by the 2022 floods to attend the Flood Recovery Check In. It is more than two years since the floods. This free session will help participants to manage thoughts and feelings commonly experienced two years after a natural disaster and identify potential risks during this recovery stage. For many, life is finding a new sense of normal, but for others, recovery continues to be a struggle. It can feel like things are getting harder.

DATE: Wednesday 26 February

TIME: 5pm-6.30pm

AT: Forbes Rugy Club, Gordon Duff Drive, Forbes RSVP: Text Phil 0436 921 076

Presented by Phil Worrad from RAMHP - Rural Adversity Mental Health Program with Legal Aid, NSW Reconstruction Authority, NSW Ambulance and Forbes Shire Council attending.

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, Vendor Panel. 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 21 February 2025

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

Closing 21 February

Tender 2024-30 - Provision of Cleaning Services - Public

Amenities

Closing 21 February 2025 2pm

Request for Quotation 2024-38 - Forbes Library Electrical and Air-Conditioning

Closing 26 February

Tender 2025-04 – Design, Supply and Install Playground and

Soft fall at Forbes Lions Park and Apex Park

Tender 2025-06 – Design, Supply and Install Amenities Blocks at Forbes Ski Dam and Apex Park

Expression of Interest 2025-05 – Lake Forbes Landscape Design

Expression of Interest 2025-07 – Design, Supply, and Install

Shade Structures at Lions Park

Closing 27 February

Tender 2025-03 – Approved Supplier Panel – Concreting

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

In accordance with s. 154 of the Roads Act 1993, Council places on public notice a call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the lease over a lane adjoining Lot 325 Deposited Plan 752962 and Lot 14 Deposited Plan 1117216 east of Claret Street. The lane is roughly 2,735 sqm and there is no access to electricity or water at this site. EOIs 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 28 February 2025. For further information please contact Council’s Manager Corporate Business on 6850 2300 (Option 4). Welcome to Forbes

The Forbes Shire Council is pleased to announce the next Welcome to Forbes event is taking place on Thursday 27 February 2025 at the Vandenberg Hotel, Court Street from 5.30pm. This event welcomes new residents to Forbes in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

If you are a new resident of Forbes or know of any new Forbes residents we would love to invite you to this event. You can RSVP to Council’s Events Officer via email events@forbes.nsw.gov.au before 20 February 2025.

International Women’s Day Forbes Shire Council will be celebrating International Women’s Day on Saturday 8 March and invites the community to join us from 7am for a delicious breakfast by the lake. ***Announcing*** inspirational guest speakers Kelly Foran and Belinda Mawhinney

Checks revealed the vehicle’s registration was cancelled and during a subsequent search of the vehicle, officers located numerous tools and other items.

A 22-year-old man was arrested and taken to Parkes Police Station where he was allegedly found to be in possession of knives and tools.

The 22-year-old man was subsequently charged with custody of a knife in a public place and possess house breaking implements.

He was refused bail by Parramatta Local Court to reappear at Parkes Local Court next week.

Police have further searched and seized a large quantity of tools and equipment, believed to have been stolen.

The items included; ‘Engel’ Portable fridge, 4 x ‘Stihl’ Chainsaws, ‘Kincrome’ socket sets and spanners, ‘Milwaukee’ battery charger, Milwaukee drill set in tool box, Milwaukee circular saw, Milwaukee cordless multi tool, Milwaukee compact friction impact wrench, ‘Makita’ long nozzle blower, Makita circular saw, Makita brushless air compressor skin and hose, and more. They can be viewed on the Central West Police District Facebook page.

Both Kelly and Belinda are dedicated to empowering others, whether through compassionate support or strategic leadership development. Tickets include Breakfast, amazing guest speakers and a gift for all attendees. Get your tickets at 123tix.com.au. We look forward to seeing you there! For additional event information, please contact Council’s Events Officer on events@forbes.nsw.gov. au or 02 6850 2300.

Seniors Week - Give It A Go Festival in Forbes NSW Seniors festival runs from Monday 3 - Sunday 16 March 2025. Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the 2025 Give it a Go Festival in Forbes for seniors! This year’s festival promises a range of events and activities, inspiring workshops and delightful entertainment. Seniors who are looking to reconnect with old friends, make new ones or simply enjoy a day out, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to have fun, learn,

Daniel Jones and Wayne Christensen boxing up packs of bikkies at the Forbes factory.

Outgoing show president Pip Perry is urging community members to come to the AGM.

Community groups combine to buy new chair for hospital

By BRENDAN MCCOOL

The Forbes Men’s Shed, in partnership with Forbes Rotary and the Bali Fund, have worked together to purchase a new adjustable chair for the Forbes Hospital.

The chair donated is a T688 model Fresenius chair primarily used in infusion clinics and ambulatory care units: it’s a specialised renal chair as well as suitable for wound care.

Nurse Unit Manager Jane Armitage said the chair has all the features they need and is one of the best models they can have for their treatment.

This donation was described as being fantastic by Ms Armitage, and was initiated by a client who saw the hospital’s need

Forbes Men’s Shed members and local nurses try out the new

er unloading it.

to have an additional chair and then approached the Men’s Shed who were able to help.

Ms Armitage said Forbes Rota-

ry’s Graham Uphill was also very instrumental in helping set up this donation.

Graham Uphill, who has in-

Trusted local journalism is key for factual reporting

META’S plans for the removal of factchecking services on content posted to its platforms and the government’s decision to introduce age limits for access to social media has brought a renewed focus on the importance of regional, rural and local news publishers, according to Country Press Australia (CPA).

Andrew Schreyer, Country Press Australia president, said publishers have never been tasked with so many layers of responsibility, and it’s never been more vital for the work they do to be appropriately recognised and valued by government and the broader community.

“The decisions local newsrooms make about content, photo selection, accuracy, fairness, balance and integrity go to the heart of the cra of journalism,” Mr Schreyer said.

“Our papers don’t engage in clickbait, they don’t produce or publish fake AI content, they work hard to ensure mis and dis information are not allowed to fester in the communities we serve.”

Mr Schreyer said the vast majority of Country Press Australia publishers are the only local media outlet with boots on the ground in these communities, producing public interest place-based journalism that ful lls a vital role in our democracy.

volvement in Forbes Rotary, the Forbes Men’s Shed and the Bali Fund said each group worked together and put in about $2000 each for the chair.

Mr Uphill said they like to put money back into the community for things such as this.

Forbes Men’s Shed president Jim Walklate said it had turned out to be a great project for the hospital.

The Men’s Shed was able to help following a good year, with plenty of rewood cut and sold, with good members wanting to jump in and help.

The specialised chair will be housed in the community health area and will allow Forbes to undertake infusions for more people and have access to more chairs as needed.

Probus welcomes a new member

The Probus club of Forbes Inc held its January meeting at Club Forbes on January 24,

“Country Press Australia is disappointed at Meta’s decision to abandon third-party fact checking on its Facebook and Instagram platforms in the US.

“Third-party fact checking has not yet been abandoned on Meta platforms in Australia, however the move in the US may be an indication of Meta’s intentions worldwide and is a worrying development regardless.”

Equally, Country Press Australia has welcomed Communications Minister Michelle Rowland’s strong comments that came in the wake of Meta’s announcement and her support for high quality fact checked information for the public, such as the place-based public interest journalism produced by Country Press Australia’s 240 member mastheads.

“We are also heartened by comments from eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant on the harms of social media and the responsibility to comply with Australian law,” he said.

“The mis and disinformation that spreads on Meta’s platforms are harmful to people’s health, wellbeing and to social cohesion.

“This information can be hard for consumers to recognise.

“The removal of third-party fact checking will see the levels of mis and disinformation on social media increase exponentially.

“Without any fact checking mechanism the rates of mental health issues caused by social media will no doubt rise.”

Our papers don’t engage in clickbait, they don’t produce or publish fake AI content, they work hard to ensure mis and dis information are not allowed to fester in the communities we serve.

He commended the government for its recently announced News Bargaining Incentive and News Media Assistance Program funding which will help Country Press Australia member publishers continue to produce the quality local public interest journalism that is so well trusted by its audiences.

“Professionally produced local public interest journalism, such as that produced by Country Press Australia mastheads, is the antidote to mis and disinformation and this has been well recognised by the government,” he said.

President Neil opened the meeting at 10.30 am with 23 members in attendance and visitors, Geoff Williams and Greg Gibson. Neil also advised that there would not be morning tea due to a price increase.

A total of 12 apologies were received from Bruce Adams, Alan Baker, Trevor Drury, Ray Burridge, Merv Langfield, Alister Lockhart, Don Rath, Tom Sharp, Ian Thomas, Barry Wright, Brad Stewart, Bob and Ray Jelbert.

Geoff Williams was inducted into membership. Geoff grew up on a farm between Forbes and Condobolin.

He attended school in Condobolin where he was very active with sport. He was a player in the Australian school boys cricket team that toured England.

Following school Geoff went to Sydney to Play Rugby Leaue and joined the Police Force. After some years in Sydney he moved to Parkes as a Detective. He left the Police Force and went back to farming until he retired.

Mal Smith reported Ray Jelbart and Kevin Girot still not well enough to attend the meeting, Alan Baker and Merv Langfield in hospital.

Mal told a couple of jokes.

President Neil gave a PowerPoint presentation of our 40th birthday celebration.

Our guest speaker introduced by Allen Toole was Senior Constable Sara Tabb from the NSW Police.

Sara’s talk was about her life in the Police Service. The talk was illustrated with some videos:- The Academy, A day in the life o fa a cop, a day in the life of the Highway Patrol, Mounted Police, Dog squad training. etc

Appreciation was given by Mick Malloy

The next meeting is on February 28, 2025.

By NEIL GILMOUR

chair a

- ANDREW SCHREYER, COUNTRY PRESS AUSTRALIA PRESIDENT

All roads lead to races at Bedgerabong Saturday

SATURDAY is the big day!

Bedgerabong Races are back with a six-race program and one of the biggest social days of the local calendar scheduled for the country track.

Secretary Wayne Hodges says both the race track and the grounds are in pristine conditions thanks to summer rainfall and the hard work of the committee.

Everything’s lush and green, and the nal touches are being put on the course for this big annual event in the lead up to the weekend.

So what do race goers need to know?

Get your tickets online now through 123tix.com.au - they’re just $20 and under 16s are free.

Gates will open at Bedger abong Showground at 11am, and those who’d like to catch the bus from town can gather at Victoria Park for that same time.

Buses will be heading out from town through to about 2.30pm.

EFTPOS is available for drink tickets, but you cannot get cash out on site so please do come prepared with cash.

All you need will be on course on the day.

The Bedgerabong school P and C will be running the can-

teen, there’ll be food vendors on site as well.

There’s strictly no BYO or glass: the bar will again operate with a ticket system.

For the kids there will be jumping castles, some supervised kids games and cra s, with face painting from 1pm to 5pm.

Fashions on the Field once again has wonderful prizes

and generous sponsorship, with categories including best dressed lady and gentlemen and best headwear.

Locals within 100km of Bedgerabong can enter for best dressed local lady, local gent and local junior.

While race elds hadn’t been nalised at time of preparing for press, there is a six-race program anticipated to com-

mence about 1.30pm - see Col Hodges’ preview back page.

The feature race is the Bedgerabong Cup over 1400m sponsored by Total Wear Solutions for the third year as major sponsor with the second feature race the Clearview Bracelet over 800m.

Schedule and elds will be available on the day.

Once the racing is done, the entertainment picks up for the humans with the traditional foot races on the track.

Live entertainment with the band, The Alternators, will take race goers into what’s expected to be a great evening.

The buses will bring people back to town from 6.30pm.

Mr Hodges extended the committee’s thanks once again to the local and regional business community for their generous support and sponsorship - nd them on the Bedgerabong Picnic Race Club Inc facebook page. Major sponsors include Daniel Ball Transport, Dunc Insurance, Roylances Tractor Replacements, Forbes Machinery, Walkers AgNVet, KMWL, Terry Bros, Lachlan Quarry Sands and Forbes Shire Council.

Tickets at www.123tix.com. au/events/46582/bedgerabongpicnic-races

Lock

in the date, it’s time to get your Frost and Fire tickets

Lock in June 21 for this year’s Frost and Fire festival.

Earlybird tickets for this much-anticipated night of music, food and fun are now available online through 123tix.com.au

While the artists to headline this year’s event are yet to be announced, Forbes Shire Council is promising another incredible night.

Returning to the stage as MC is Dooley Thomson, with our very own Shell Bell Quigley joining him as co-host - guaranteeing there won’t be a dull moment on the main stage.

Council is encouraging people to snag those tickets and make plans to cosy up by toasty fire buckets, indulge in hearty treats from our food trucks, and savour boutique brews while being serenaded by internationally recognised Australian music acts on the main stage. There will be Wiradjuri cultural performances, the effigy bonfires and entertainment for children including fire performers and face painting.

Shuttle buses will depart multiple locations through town through the night, with accessible parking available for booking at the site.

Phyllis Miller with our Frost and Fire co-hosts Michelle

and Dooley Thomson launching this year’s tickets.

Casual speeding is the biggest cause of trauma on NSW roads

Mayor

Quigley

Frankie with mum Jo Henley all ready for a day in kinder at

Little Audrey was ready to start kinder at Forbes North, with Danielle and Shannon Markwort.

Sophie Piper exploring Elijah’s kindergarten classroom at Forbes North with him.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Beyond Paradise. Final. 1.30 Optics. 2.00 Mozart: Rise Of A Genius. 3.00 Hippo Watch With Steve Backshall. Final. 4.00 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. 5.00 Eat The Invaders. Final. 5.30 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. Final. 5.55 Australian Story. 6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Death In Paradise. Return. 8.30 Vera. 10.00 The Newsreader. 10.55 Unforgotten. 11.40 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Better Homes. 3.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 5.00 Horse Racing. Apollo Stakes Day and Black Caviar Lightning Raceday. 6.00 Dog Patrol. 6.30 Bondi Vet. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 10.30 I Escaped To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.05 ER. 2.50 Not Going Out. 3.15 Doctor Who. 4.05 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. Final. 9.50 Ab Fab. 11.20 ER. 12.05 Late Programs.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Apollo Stakes Day and Black Caviar Lightning Raceday. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 7.30 MOVIE: The Bourne Supremacy. (2004) Matt Damon. 9.45 MOVIE: Taken 2. (2012) Liam Neeson, Famke Janssen. 11.45 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Pawn Stars. 11.00 Storage Wars. 11.30 American Resto. 12.00 Golf. LIV Golf Adelaide. Day 2. 5.00 LIV Golf League Post-Show Adelaide. 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.

6.00 Kids’ Programs. 4.20 Odd Squad. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.30 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.15 Chopped Jnr. 9.00 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.40 Speechless. 10.05 Officially Amazing. 10.30 Dragon Ball Super. 10.55 Late Programs.

6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules: High Stakes. 12.00 Buffy. 3.00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success. 4.00 Bondi Vet. 5.00 Britain’s Got Talent. 7.00 MOVIE: Hotel Transylvania. (2012) 8.55 MOVIE: Signs. (2002) 11.15 MOVIE: The Guernsey Literary And Potato Peel Pie Society. (2018) 1.40 Late Programs.

WIN News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 David Attenborough’s Mammals. New. 8.40 MOVIE: Valentine’s Day. (2010) Ashton Kutcher, Jennifer Garner, Anne Hathaway. 11.10 MOVIE: The Sun Is Also A Star. (2019) 1.00 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Invictus Games. 2025 Vancouver Whistler. H’lights. 3.00 MOVIE: Up The Chastity Belt. (1971) 5.00 Our Yorkshire Farm. 6.00 Antiques Roadshow. 7.00 Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. NSW Waratahs v Highlanders. 9.30 Super Rugby Pacific Post-Match. 9.45 MOVIE: Man On A Ledge. (2012) 11.45 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 My Way. 1.00 Let’s Eat With George. 1.30 Your Next Cruise. New. 2.00 Innovation Nation. 2.15 MOVIE: Overboard. (1987) 4.30 Explore TV. 5.00 News. 5.30 Getaway. Return. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Men’s All Stars. Round 1. Indigenous All Stars v Maori All Stars. 10.00 NRL: Indigenous All Stars V Maori All Stars PostMatch. 10.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success. 12.00 Dream Home. 1.45 Holey Moley Australia. 3.15 Britain’s Got Talent. 5.00 MOVIE: Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse. (2018) 7.30 MOVIE: Back To The Future. (1985) 10.00 MOVIE: What Women Want. (2000) 12.35 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 12.30 Exploring Off The Grid. Final. 1.30 Frugal Foodie. 2.00 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures. 3.00 What’s Up Down Under. 3.30 Roads Less Travelled. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 Good Chef Bad Chef. 5.00 10 News First. 6.30 The Dog House Australia. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. 8.30 The Dog House Australia. 9.45 Ambulance Australia. 10.45 Ambulance

6.00 Morning Programs. 3.30 Invictus Games. 2025 Vancouver Whistler. Day 5. Highlights. 4.30 Touch Football. Indigenous All Stars v Maori All Stars. 5.30 Rugby League. NRL. Women’s All Stars. Round 1. Indigenous All Stars v Maori All Stars. 7.30 MOVIE: Bridget Jones’s Baby. (2016) 9.55 MOVIE: I Don’t Know How She Does It. (2011) 11.45 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 For The Love Of Pets. 11.00 World’s Greatest Myths And Mysteries. 12.00 Fishing Australia. 12.40 Bondi Vet. 1.40 MOVIE: Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. (1988) 4.00 David Attenborough’s Green Planet. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 RBT. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Married At First Sight. 8.30 60 Minutes. 9.30 9News Late. 10.00 See No Evil. 11.00 The First 48. 11.50 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. Return. 1.30 Gardening Aust. 2.30 Monty Don’s Spanish Gardens. 3.30 Sue Perkins’ Big Adventure: Paris To Istanbul. 4.15 Extraordinary Escapes. 5.05 Maggie Beer’s Big Mission. Final. 6.00 Antiques Roadshow. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. 8.30 The Newsreader. 9.25 Love Me. 10.20 MOVIE: Love And Other Catastrophes. (1996) 11.35 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 4.05 Grace’s Amazing Machines. 4.20 Odd Squad. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Octonauts And The Great Barrier Reef. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.45

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Are You RV Safe? 11.00 Luxury Escapes. 11.30 Buy To Build. 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 To Be Advised. 4.30 Good Chef Bad Chef. 5.00

Cities Of The Underworld. 3.30 Steam Train Journeys. 4.30 I Escaped To The Country. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Rosemary & Thyme. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 Extreme Railways. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 1.30 Tackling Australia. 2.00 Merv Hughes Fishing. 2.30 Al McGlashan’s Fish’n With Mates. 3.00 Fishing Addiction. 4.00 Motor MythBusters. 5.00 LIV Golf League Post-Show Adelaide. 6.00 Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: Die Hard. (1988) 11.15 MOVIE: Striking Distance. (1993) 1.25 Late Programs.

too late to follow up on it. You might find a pleasant surprise waiting. Meanwhile, see a doctor about a pesky health problem.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) The best way to get over a personal disappointment is to get out, meet old friends, and make new ones! One of those new friends could very well become a special person in your life.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) A chance to invest comes with some strings attached that could cause economic problems later on. Be careful. Cupid favors romantic possibilities with a loving Libra or a passionate Pisces.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A simple problem threatens to turn into a legal showdown unless it’s cleared up soon. Wishing it away won’t help. In addition, a telephone call could lead to a change in travel plans.

6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Get Clever. 10.00 Holey Moley Australia. 11.30 Dream Home. 1.15 Home And Away. 4.10 TBA. 6.00 The Goldbergs. 6.30 Puppy School. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. 10.30 Bones. 12.30 The Blacklist. 1.30 Ordinary Joe. 2.30 The Resident.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.15 MOVIE: Passport To Pimlico. (1949) 2.00 Invictus Games. 2025 Vancouver Whistler. Day 6. Highlights. 3.00 MOVIE: Dangerous Voyage. (1954) 4.30 MOVIE: Support Your Local Gunfighter. (1971) 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: Rambo: First Blood Part II. (1985) 10.30 The Closer. 11.30 Late Programs.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) A close friend who suddenly becomes remote is in need of your warm reassurance. Give it generously. Meanwhile, a misunderstanding on the job creates the potential for future problems. Settle it quickly.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Career advancement involves the need for added training. The investment of your time and effort will pay off. In other news, some stormy personal situations begin to calm down.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Scale back on your grandiose schemes for a while. Neither the time nor the circumstances are right to make the huge financial

Importance of governance in Landcare

By MARG APPLEBEE

CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE

This week Landcare members from across the Central West gathered for Governance Training in Parkes.

Governance is incredibly important for Landcare groups, particularly when many of our regional groups are also employers, run events and projects.

Good governance is crucial to the e ective operations of community organisations and to gaining and retaining the con dence of the community, funding bodies, sponsors, volunteers and project partners.

As part of the roll out of The Landcare Enabling Program, Landcare NSW have engaged long term Landcarer and friend to NSW, Kim Boswell from The Forever Agenda (in conjunction with the legal team) to provide assistance to the Landcare Regions to assess their current governance compliance, to workshop improvements and move forward with con dence and a mindset of continuous im provement.

CATTLE SALE

Monday, February 10

Yarding 1231 (down 621)

Numbers fell this sale with agents yarding 1231 head.

Quality was mixed with some handy lines of feeder cattle o ered along with the secondary types.

The usual buyers were present and competing in a rm to easier market.

Yearling steers held fairly steady with middle and heavyweights to feed selling from 330c to 376c/kg.

Finished lines to processors sold from 310c to 358c/kg.

The heifer portion slipped in price due to a decline in quality from last week’s exceptional run.

Middle and heavyweights sold from 260 to 340c/kg.

Heavy steers and bullocks ranged in price from 310 to 350c/ kg.

this package is designed to meet you where you are at and simplify what is o en a complex and con fusing, yet vital area of the work that we do.

Essentially, good governance other stakeholders.

The critical component of good governance is that all people in

volved in the direction and control of the organisation are aware of

Real humans with lives and families are a ected by the way we run our organisations.

Whether we look at organisational culture, the way in which sta are managed and held accountable for their performance or how we facilitate tricky dynamics or our meeting practices, the impacts of how we conduct business within our organisations can have far reaching impacts on the people involved.

These facilitated workshops provide an opportunity for the committee to gather together and dive deeper into the key areas of governance for the organisation and to address any key areas that require collective action.

It was a pleasure to host Kim

Trade weight lambs sell to top of $207 at Forbes on Tuesday

Grown heifers reached 330c/kg.

Cows were rm to 3c easier.

Heavy 2 score selling from 254 to 268c and 3 score received 268 to 286c/kg.

The best heavy bull reached 291c/kg.

SHEEP SALE

Tuesday, February 11

Yarding 25,850 (down 9150)

Numbers fell this sale with both lamb and mutton showing the decrease.

Lamb quality was very mixed with both nished and secondary lines penned.

The usual buyers were present and competing in a firm to easier market that was dependent on quality and finish offered.

Trade weight lambs 20-24kg were firm to $3 easier with prices ranging from $150 to $207/head.

Heavy lambs to 26kg were also steady receiving from $195 to $226/head.

Extra heavyweights sold from $214 to $270/head.

Carcase prices averaged 775 to 830c/kg.

The best heavy hoggets reached $184/head.

Mutton numbers slipped to just 7700 head.

Quality was similar to previous sales and prices remained fairly steady.

Merino ewes sold from $71 to $153/head.

Crossbred ewes ranged from $63 to $169 with Dorpers reach ing $144/head.

Heavy Merino wethers sold from $138 to $165/head.

FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVESTOCK REPORTING AGENCY

Phillip Diprose, Melanie Cooper, Cassie Andrews, Kate Stuckey, Clemance Matchett, Jenna Keates, Margot Jolly, Danielle Littlewood, Kim Boswell and Marg Applebee with Landcare. PHOTO: Supplied

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

1 Shakespeare’s Macbeth was known as the thane of ... (6)

8 What is a liquid preparation of the colour and consistency of milk (8)

9 Name the second-largest country in the world (6)

10 Decimal currency commenced on the 14th of which month in 1966 (8)

11 Name the capital of the Republic of the Philippines (6)

13 What are reconditioned worn motor-vehicle tyres (8)

16 Which language is spoken in Beijing (8)

19 Name the capital of the Campania region of Italy (6)

22 What is a flight of steps (8)

24 To be stately, majestic or grand, is to be what (6)

25 Who, colloquially, keeps watch during a two-up game (8)

26 To tidy up, is to do what (6)

DOWN

2 Name the sacred city of Tibetan Buddhism (5)

3 Name a popular winter beach resort in Florida (5)

4 What is an alternative term for a sailor (8)

5 What is an electric light globe known as (4)

6 To be sagacious, is to be what (6)

7 Which zone lies between the tropics of Cancer and Capricorn (6)

12 Name a part of speech (4)

14 Which English poet voiced the moral concerns of the Victorian age (8)

15 Who was slain by his brother, Cain (4)

17 Which person writes novels, poems, essays, etc (6)

E-QUATIONS

18 When one imbibes, one does what (6)

Letters have a number value

Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.

E-QUATIONS

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

20 Name a former Australian territory in south-eastern New Guinea (5)

21 What is the nest of an eagle or a hawk (5)

23 Which unit of power is defined as one joule per second (4)

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

1 SEITY

(a) In the psalms, a Hebrew word meaning pause (b) Personal identity (c) Feudal lordship

2 UNCIAL (a) Of one mind (b) Offensively suave and smug (c) Pertaining to an inch

BIYWORD

Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.

CLUES:

Artful craft (7)

Community Liaison Service (3)

Cultivated soil (5) Defeats (5) In good health (3) Of sound (5) Pit in macula (5) Short novel (7) Tree (3) Weep (3)

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

Smiling faces poolside as Eugowra hosts swim carnival

Eugowra’s Junior Sports Committee has hosted the community’s first swimming carnival in many years and we popped in to capture the action and those supporting the day. Story page 15.

and community

Parents

members keeping the carnival running as timekeepers.

Lexi Taylor competing in Eugowra.

Colin Nayda, Alison Haynes, Johnny Dukes, Alan Noble and Mark Bray organised the BBQ and ra les.

Lexi Taylor, Chloe Cha ey, Flynn Miles, Elsie Noble and Aiden McMahon waiting for their race.

Rachel Miles, Toby Fren, Molly, Michael and Albert Miles. PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

Lexi Taylor, Elsie Noble and Olivia Bray all set to

Amity McMahon in the breaststroke.

High scores and sharp shooting on golf course

MEN’S GOLF

By SHORT PUTT

On Saturday the milder weather was welcomed by the Forbes golfers who certainly took advantage.

A number of golfers achieved individual milestones that earned high praise.

The men’s competition on Saturday was an Individual Stableford event, sponsored by Troy Howe Electrical. The eld of 67 players, which included two juniors, produced commendable scores for most of the eld.

The Div-1 was a close encounter by two golfers performing at their peak. Archie Quirk red even halves of ’40 scratch’ to nish with 42 points and take the win.

A bogey start on the rst two holes of the halves did not bode well but he red back with numerous pars, a couple of birdies and a 3-pointer on the closing hole to score well. No 4-pointers on the card but consistent scoring and only a single 1-pointer.

Runner-up was Glen Hooper who had the best golf day of his life, literally.

and a total of 37. He did lament the ‘if onlys’.

The ball sweep went to 35 points on count back, going to: 38 – S Betland, N Duncan, T Grifths, S Sallaway; 37 – W O’Neill, N J Morrison, L Little, A Bosho ; 36 – J Betland, C Hanrahan; 35 – G Newport, C Goodsell, P Murphy, S Kirkman, A Grierson, S Thomas, T Callaghan, Alf Davies. There were two visitors – Kyle McGinty (Tally Valley) and Gary Nicholson (Temora GC). They both enjoyed the course although Gary struggled on the greens. Charlie Goodsell (Parkes) also played and earned himself a ball.

The NTP’s went to: 9th – N Duncan; 18th – B Slack-Smith. Both managed their 2’s as their balls nished less than 15 cm, or six inches, from the holes.

Overall there were ve 2’s, with the 3rd and 9th sharing the honours. A lone ‘2’ on the 18th was scored by a Div-2 player.

The 3rd hole Super-Pin was a delightful experience for those in the group watching.

playing at Wentworth.

VETS GOLF

Forbes may have supplied the most players in twin towns vets golf last Thursday but they did not take home the winners trophy with Rob Staples from host club Parkes best on a hot day a er posting a creditable 39 points.

Not only that Rob was Chef De Partie heading barbeque duties a er play assisted by Forbes’ big hitting Neil Herbert. A winning combination if ever there was one.

Runner-up was Allan Rees from Forbes on a count-back from club mate Alex Mackinnon a er both scored 38 points. Winner of the encouragement award, or as MC Peter Bristol called it the ‘entertainment award’ was presented to Rod Luyt from Parkes.

Mega matches as squash returns to courts

By DROP SHOT!

Forbes Squash Club has returned to the courts for the year’s first comp with a short summer hit off.

His 41 points matched Archie on the front-9 but a 1-pointer on the 12th hole held him back. But Glen was well pleased with his effort having recorded the rst time he has broken ‘80’ in his gol ng days. His birdie on the 14th hole which yielded a 4-pointer was especially pleasing.

The Div-2 had a similar score for the winner but more breathing space to those behind.

Sam Jarrett was also close to his ‘best ever’ score in amassing his 41 points. A very hot front-9 earned him 21 points but he stumbled at the start of the back-9 with two 1-pointers. A better run a er that which included a birdie and 4-pointer on the 15th was brought undone by double-bogeys to nish.

The Div-2 Runner-up was Brian Doyle who remained calm throughout, despite a few hiccups. A run of bogeys and double-bogeys in the middle of the front-9 earned him only 17 points.

But he began the back-9 with gusto and red all the way until the 15th where a ‘miss’ made him stumble. But in true champion style he brushed that aside to storm home and score 20 points

Todd Callaghan hit a smoothly arching shot that curled on the pin and landed so ly to nish only 90 cm from the pin. Needless to say he scored his ‘2’ and walked o with a bounce in his step.

The best Scratch score was a 68 by Steve Betland, followed by John Betland (69) and Shane Sallaway (70). Both John and Shane shot under par on the front-9 but Steve hit the ball sweetly to blast around the back-9 in only 32 shots well under the other two.

This was a day of personal highlights. Not only did we have players recording their ‘best ever’ scores, but it was a day for the sharpshooters.

Both the 9th and 18th NTP’s nished at ‘tap in’ distance and caused much excitement in the watching groups as the thoughts of ‘Hole in One’ were raised along with the heart rate.

Couple that to Todd’s shot on the 3rd, the best in over a year, and the target was most de nitely in their sights.

There was no play in the Sunday Stableford Medley.

Here is the news:

The second round of the Men’s Pennants had mixed results for Forbes. Again, only the Div 2 and Div 3 teams were in action, both

The Div 2 team managed a 4-1 win over Duntryleague in a game containing close matches. Dave Mylecharane (3/2), Josh Coulthurst (1 up), Chalie Dwyer (5/4) and Andrew Grierson (3/2) had wins but Andrew Dukes fought hard to lose 1 down.

The Div 3 unfortunately lost to Mudgee 1-4. Troy Howe had a resounding win by 8/6. Ben Robinson had a close loss (1 down), Randall Grayson was unlucky to lose 3/2, Matt Roylance had no click losing 5/4 while Archie Quirk had a baptism of re and held his own but lost 3/1.

Next week the Div 2 and Div 3 teams have a bye, hosting the Pennants at Forbes, while the Div 1 team commence their play at Parkes where they are up against Bathurst.

A Taylor Made Equipment Demo day was held on Wednesday 12 Feb. Head Pro Wil has organised a Callaway Equipment Day for March so if you are interested contact him asap.

This Saturday, February 15, will be an Individual Stableford, sponsored by Forbes Bus Lines. Fine weather is forecast so we can expect some good play again. And there is the usual Sunday Stableford Medley comp.

Croquet news and results:

Aussie Croquet was played on February 8 on a very warm morning.

Scores recorded 14/13 Vince Roberts (solo) def Bruce Field (solo), David Williams & Frank Donohoe def Russell Anderson & Bruce Field, Lyn Simmonds & Enid Baker def Colleen Liebich & Joan Littlejohn.

14/12 scores as follows: Kevin Rubie & David Williams def John Cole & Cheryl Toohey, Kevin Rubie (solo) def John Allegri (Solo), Harley Stewart (Solo) def Marie Spry & Fay Picker, Rex Toole & David West def May Jones & Lyn Simmonds.

14/11

scores Allan Jones & John Cole def Marie Spry &

Bill Scott, Allan Jones & John Farah def Robin Pols & Kevin Wenning, Harley Stewart & Fay Picker def Peter West & Sally Perry, Allan Jones & Peter West def John Cole & Ros Rennick.

There were also many 14/10 and 14/9 scores recorded on the day.

Two games on the day were won by John Allegri, John Browne, Phillip Moran, Harley Stewart & David Williams. Congratulations to those players.

Seniors week is on again in March with many celebrating during that week. On March 4 Forbes Croquet will be hosting an Open Day. Anyone who would like to

Nearest the pins, 4th A grade Don McKeowen (F), B grade Neil Herbert, 11th A grade Rob Staples, B grade Alex Mackinnon. In the twin towns shield, Forbes with 18 players to choose their best six scores 220 points, Parkes with 12 reps 208 points.

Ball sweep to 35 points, all Forbes with exception of Peter Bristol who posted 35 points. Others were 38 Alex Mackinnon, 36 Ted Morgan, Barry Shine, Steve Uphill, Peter Grayson, 35 Ken Walton and Don McKeowen.

Thursday’s play is the rst of two weeks in Forbes with noms from 8.30am for a 9am shot gun start this week. The second in Forbes on Thursday week (Feb 20) will be the rst of the Lachlan Valley 18-hole events for 2025 with players from Grenfell, West Wyalong, Condobolin, Cowra, Parkes and Forbes expected to contest the ever popular hit. Local players are asked to supply a ‘plate’ for morning tea.

Last Tuesday 12 played the 12 hole social comp and despite the heat a couple carried on to the play the entire course. Winner with 29 points was Barry Shine who enjoyed a mid-week handicap from fellow playing partner Ted Morgan next best on 25 points.

Don’t forget it is an 8.30am ball toss on Tuesday in the hope of beating the summer heat.

So if interested in playing a ‘mini’ round for a ‘comp fee’ of only $3 be at the Pro Shop for ball toss at 8.30am.

Two separate competitions will be played Wednesday and Thursday evenings for five weeks with semis and finals week six. Play starts at 6PM. Results thus far follow.

Wednesday February 5: In two mega matches, Adam Cuskelly level pegged Robey McMillan fourth set 18-16 but succumbed to Robey’s persistence losing the fifth 11-15 and in a five set bout Lindy Cowhan went all with out with Matt Wright but Lindy lost the fifth 9-15.

Court 1: Markworts v CJones 13 points to 22. Will v Cooper 2-5, Noah Brown v Ellie Cowhan 1-6, Kim Chudleigh v Bec Jones 5-2, Nate Markwort v sub R Bilsborough 2-5 and in a mega match.

Court 2: RJones v Webbs 18 to 17. Riley v Louise 6-1, Lucy Robinson v Harry Bilsborough 6-1, Cam Webb v Lucas Jones 1-6 and Grace Chudleigh v Sam Webb 2-5.

Court 3: Hardys v Benticks 12 to 16. Marcus v sub W Markwort 1-6, Jono Webb v sub K Chudleigh 5-2, Bros Luke and Hunter Bilsborough had a tight three setter where Hunter snatched the third 17-15 and Rachael Bilsborough v sub N Markwort 5-2. These results put RJones up front on 22 points followed by CJones 18, Webbs 17, Benticks 16 Markworts 13 and Hardys 12.

Thursday evening: Big matches highlights: Shanna Nock and Lockie Jones fought on through five actionpacked sets till Shanna grasped victory 16-14 and Scotty Webb scrubbed up 15-6 after he and Adam Chudleigh polished the court boards for five big sets.

Court 1: Hornerys v Pipers 26 to 11. Sam v Darryn 1-6, Wayne Bilsborough v Brendon Allegri 5-2, Tim Coombs v Pete Cowhan 2-5, John Ridley v sub Henry Willis 6-1 and Greg Ridge v Claire Bayley 6-1.

Court 2: Millers v Jones 23 to 19. Lockie v Max 1-6, Nathan Roach v Dan Bayley 2-5, Cam Dale v Lawry Brayne 4-3, Weivan Huang v Will Markwort 3-4 and Oliver Paterson v sub H Willis 5-2.

Court 3; Shaws v Dawes 26 to 15. Jake v Ollie 1-6, Jake Shaw v Jono Cannon 6-1, Mark Webb v sub J Ridley 5-2, Max Ridley v sub T Coombs 6-1, Alex Bayley v Al Carlisle 2-5 and T J Markwort v Tim Welsh 6-1. Hornerys and Shaws lead early with 26 points apiece, just ahead of Millers on 23, Jones’ next on 19, Dawes follow with 15 then it’s Pipers on 11points.

This week: team 2 v 3, 1 v 6, 4 v 5.

save the date for club open day

try a game of Croquet come down at 8.30 am on the day and you will be paired with an experienced player to get to know the ropes. On that day we will have a special morning tea as well. All will be made most welcome. Croquet is a form of gentle exercise, great for hand and eye co-ordination and a really social aspect is evident at the Forbes Club.

Our Croquet lawns are looking good a er the constant watering by some of our dedicated members.

The storms over the past few days have also helped to put a green cover back.

On Tuesday February 11 Golf Croquet was played with

34 players in attendance.

It was great to see Peter Mackay come down to join us for a game and hopefully he will be a regular.

Scores recorded 11/2 Allan Jones & Neil Gilmour def Fay Picker & Lyall Strudwick.

10/3 Russell Anderson & Rex Toole def Barry White & Lyn Simmonds: 9/4 John Cole & Mal Smith def Lyn Simmonds & Barry White, Kevin Wenning & Neville Spry def Elvy Quirk & Robin Pols, Kevin Rubie & John Farah def Rex Toole & Allan Jones, Wayne Wright & Peter West def Jennifer Wenning & Sally Perry.

8/5 as follows Elvy Quirk & Lyall Strudwick def Peter

West & Kevin Wenning, Allan Jones & Frank Donohoe def Graham Falconer & Fay

Picker, Kevin Rubie & Russell Anderson def Bruce Field & Neil Gilmour, John Farah & Margaret Dent def Robin Pols & Wayne Wright, Ray Martin & Lyn Simmonds def Vince Roberts & Marie Spry, Lyall Strudwick (solo) def Fay

Picker & Marie Spry, Colleen Liebich & Neil Gilmour def Sue Wade & John Browne, Ray Martin (solo) def Graham Falconer (Solo), May Jones & Russell Anderson def Frank Donohoe & Vince Roberts, Bruce Field & Bill Scott def Peter Mackay & Geo Coles, Kevin Rubie & Bruce Field def Neville Spry(solo),

Colleen Liebich & Robin Pols def Elvy Quirk & Frank Donohoe, Bill Scott & Mal Smith def Kevin Wenning & May Jones. There were also many 7/6 scores played on the day. All three games were won by Russell Anderson, Ray Martin, Kevin Rubie & Bill Scott. Russell and Ray are not o en amongst the top winners so congratulations to both these players and congratulations to others who also won three games. Croquet is good fun and has a very social aspect with about 70 members in our Forbes Club. A gentle form of exercise for young and old alike.

Contributed by Elvy Quirk

Cricket comp heats up

The Forbes District Cricket summer competition continues with things getting pretty tight leading into the final rounds.

Round 11 saw Trundle Ducks and Condo / Kiacatoo claim victories, while the clash between VCR and Condobolin Boomerangs ended in a draw.

Results of February 1 were:

Trundle Ducks def Tigers

Tigers batted first, finishing at 8d/71 off 22.3 overs.

J. Skinner topped the scoring with 26.

Trundle’s bowlers were on fire, with J. Liesegang 3/8 off four overs and D. Byrnes 3/11 off four overs. J. Moss 2/16 off five overs.

Trundle Ducks chased the required runs down in 15 overs, with the loss of just one wicket.

B. Coburn was 40* and S. Robbins 29*.

H. Hodges took 1/14 off 6.0 overs.

VCR and Condobolin Boomerangs draw

N Roach top scored with 47 for VC Reid as they batted to 99 (all out) off 24.2 overs.

Doing the damage for the Boomerangs was R. Cartwright who took out 4/11 off six overs.

C. Sloane (2/9 off 4.2 overs) and T. Smith (2/20 off 3.0 overs).

Condobolin headed to the centre and played out 27.1 overs to have the contest end in a draw.

E. Heffernan led the scoring with 28 for the visitors, with S. Bell adding 20 and A. Milne 18.

S. Bale was on fire bowling for VC Reid taking 4/8 (3.1 overs), M. Wright took 2/12 (3.0 overs).

Condo/Kiacatoo defeated Vandenberg Colts

Condo/Kiacatoo made 116 before they were bundled out in 23.4 overs. C. Venables topped the scoring with 29.

H Mackay took three of the wickets for Vandenberg, J. Rudd 2/5 (2.0 overs).

But the Colts couldn’t chase down the runs - out for 57 off 21.0 overs.

J. Little put 17 runs on the board but for the bowlers D. White took 3/9 off five overs, R. Smith 2/15 off six and G. Smith 2/7 off one.

Forbes Battapi had the bye.

Round 12 results were:

Condo/Kiacatoo defeated Trundle Ducks

Condo/Kiacatoo smashed 6/137 off their 20 overs at Berryman Oval on Friday evening, with top scorer Z. Grimmond 41.

C. Anderson led the bowling for Trundle taking 3/27 (4.0 overs), L. Watt 2/11 (3.0 overs).

But Condobolin / Kiacatoo’s bowlers fought back and bundled Trundle Ducks out for 57.

J. Liesegang’s 8* was the top score, L. Watt and T. Umbers added 7 each.

D. White claimed 3/10 (4.0 overs), R. Smith 3/23 (4.0 overs)

and G. Johnson 2/12 (3.3 overs).

Forbes Battapi defeated Vandenberg Colts

The Battapi batted first and H Leadbitter hit 64 as they set a total of 9/144 (30.0 overs).

Taking wickets for Van were A. Flick 2/6 (2.0 overs), M. Glasson 2/14 (6.0 overs).

The Colts took up their bats but were all out for 40 off 22.0 overs.

H. Leadbitter had red hot bowling figures of 3/2 (4.0 overs), R. Graham took 3/11 (5.0 overs) and B. Seyffer 1/2 (2.0 overs).

Condobolin Boomerangs defeat Tigers due to forfeit and VCR had the bye.

West, Davies work for win in bowls major pairs

The last rounds of the Major Pairs were played out at the Forbes Sports and Recreation Club on the weekend.

Christian West and Alf Davies had a hard fought 19-14 win against Shayne Staines and Robert Dukes. Shayne and Pooch stayed with their opponents until the twelfth end down 7-9. Alf and Christian then scored seven shots on the next two ends and although they scored well over the remaining ends Shayne and Pooch the game was lost.

Bill Cowell and Laurie Crouch proved too good for Chris and Russell Hodge with a winning score of 23-11. Bill and Laurie lead 9-6 at the ninth end but continued on their winning way scoring on eight of the last 12 ends.

Clint Hurford and Scott MacKellar had to fight hard before coming out on top for a 22-13 win against father and son pair, Joe and Jeff Nicholson. At the seventh end Joe and Jeff lead 5-3 and at the 15th end they held the lead at 12-11. We may need an inquiry because over the last six ends Clint and Scott picked up 11 shots to 1 to run away with the game.

Kerry Roach and Sue White may have been expected to win but that was not the case as they went down 24-17 to Mick Merritt and Pat O’Neill. Kerry and Sue lead 9-5 at the sixth end but then did not score again until the 11th end being 10-14 down.

At the 12th end they were down only 12-14 but again sat to 12 four more ends and the horse had bolted. They scored six on the last five ends but not enough to stop Mick and Pat coming away with the win.

Ian Hodges and Bert Bayley had a comfortable 23-6 win against Glen Kearney and Bruce Williams. On the fifth end Glen and Bruce held a shot to make it 4-all.

Much like the last game they then sat on the four for 10 ends giving Ian and Bert a free run and they ran away for the 23-6 win.

In the last game Brian Asimus and Mitchell Andrews had another hard game but ran out winners 21-14 over Jason Howell and Viv Russell. Brian and Mitch lead 6-nil at the fifth end but by the 16th end Jason and Viv had pegged them back to be 11-all.

Unfortunately for Jason and Viv Brian and Mitch scored eight shots on the next two ends and from there the game was never in doubt.

Wednesday social: He may only been playing for a couple of months but it didn’t show as Tim Everest ‘stole the show’ on Wednesday morning leading for Barry Shine. The were drawn as winners taking a 22 end game 20-12 against Bill Looney and Jeff Nicholson. It was 14-3 after 12 before Bill and Jeff won 9-6 over the last 10 ends.

It happens most weeks and for some reason a game, sometimes two, finish on an uneven end. Last Wednesday morning the game between Pat O’Neill and John Gorton taking on Peter Mackay and Don Craft ended after 15 ends recorded for 17-12 to P and J. 8 all after eight prior to Pat and John winning the next four ends 9-0 for 16-8.

Another odd end game. This time in 23 ends we had Kerry Dunstan and Dale Scott winning27=13 over Bill O’Connell and Michael Coles. They were well in command at 15-3 after 12.

Sue Smith and Billy Cowell won 22-14 in 22 ends over Cheryl Hodges and Ross Williams. After it was 7 all at the end of seven it soon became 18-8 after 15. All over bar the shouting.

In the last, over 20 ends Eddie Gould and Laurie Crouch showed no mercy winning 27-9 over Bjarne Ibsen and Paul Doust. Worth noting Bjarne was having his first outing on the greens while also telling it was his fifth trip to Forbes as many years ago he worked on the Doust orchard situated on the Orange Road.

Wednesday morning bowls for all, noms by 9am for a 9.30am start. Phone the Club on 6852 1499 for a social morning of sport.

Thursday social: The winning rink on Thursday was Benny Parslow and Dale Scott who had a 22-10 win over Phil Hocking and Denny Byrnes. Benny and Scott hit the mat running winning the first two ends before losing the next three to be down 2-4. They then took control of the game, at ten it was 10-6 and at 15 it was 1510 and they proceeded to pick up seven shots on the last three end for the win.

The losing rink went to Bill Cowell and Alan Phillips who accounted for Wayne Burton a Cherie Vincent 22-6. Bill and Alan had control of the game all afternoon with the scores at 8-4 on eight, 18-5 on 13 before running out convincing winners 22-6.

In the last game the combination of Max Vincent and Christian West proved to good for Angie Dwyer and Bruce Jones with a winning score of 18-8. There were only 13 ends played in the game with Max and Christian winning eight ends to five for a good win.

Sporting shooters news and results

By TONY BRATTON

Results of the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre rimfire rifle shoot on Wednesday February 5, 2025.

The weather was warm with light breeze from the south west at 5kph and a temperature of 33 degrees.

The results of the 25metre Fly target shoot were: Bruce Dent, 199/200; Lionel Redfern, 199/200; John Dean, 198/200; Bruce Runchel, 195/200 and David Sanderson, 192/200.

50m Crow target: Bruce Dent, 239/250; John Dean, 228/250; Bruce Runchel, 224/250; David Sanderson, 210/250 and Lionel Redfern, 210/250.

75m Bear target: Bruce Dent, 115/120; John Dean, 112/120; Lionel Redfern, 112/120 and David Sanderson, 101/120.

100m Bear target: Bruce Dent, 113/120; John Dean, 107/120 and Lionel Redfern, 102/120.

The range officer was Norm Brook, the scorer was Bruce Runchel.

The Forbes sporting clays held their monthly shoot last Sunday February 9, 2025, this was a 100 target field shoot.

The weather was very warm with a temperature of 34 degrees and a light breeze from the south east at 12kph. There were 11 shooters in attendance at this shoot, from Forbes, Parkes, Griffith, Grenfell and Dubbo.

The results of the field shoot were: Greg Allen (Griffith) 24-21-19-19 total 83; David Mitton 17-16-20-18 total 71; David Tanks (Parkes) 17-19-13-16 total 65; Matt Duffy (Parkes) 16-15-16-16 total 63; Israel Trapman (Dubbo) 14-16-13-18 total 61; Phil Creal 15-14-15-14 total 58; Ben Smith 15-15-18-10 total 58; Mathew Mitton 16-18-6-17 total 57; Mel Trapman (Dubbo) 12-12-13-10 total 47; Trent Mossiss (Grenfell) 10-7-8-7 total 32; and Des Shead, 8-11 total 19.

Sunday morning social bowls:

The winning rink on Sunday went to Angie Dwyer and Alan Phillips with a very close 13-10 win over John Baass and Peter Tisdell.

Except for the first end Angie and Alan lead all the way and at the 11th end it was 9-7 to Angie and Alan.

Although both teams scored four shots each on the last five ends it was enough to get Angie and Alan over the line.

Runners-up on the morning were Jax Murphy and Alan Hilder with a very close 14-13 win over Phil Hocking and John Cutler.

Jax and Alan were leading 12-7 on the eleventh end but then gave Phil and John a sniff only scoring 2 shots on the last five ends giving Phil and John a change to they fell short by one shot.

Kelly Stringer and Peter Mackay had a good 24-9 win over Lloyd Nelson and Mick Merritt. At the 12th end Kelly and Peter led 13-9 and it was at this time the wheels fell off and Lloyd and Mick never scored another shot.

Joyce Grey and Dale Scott battled for a 19-17 win against Trish Todd and Ross Williams. Trish and Ross lead 9-4 at the seventh end but at the 11th end it was 10all.

Although Trish and Ross scored a 3 on the last end it was not enough for a win.

In the last game Terry Murphy and Billy Cowell proved too good for Mia Conden and Ron Thurlow with a comfortable 29-5 win.

Ladies: Sandra Priest suggests to those ladies now not playing bowls that perhaps they would like to turn up on the first Wednesday of the month for a get together. Good idea to keep in touch.

The next shoot for the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting clay’s will be their memorial shoot for the Cliff Bradley trophy on Sunday March 9, 2025.

This will be a 25 target DTL point score followed by 75 target field shoot starting at 10am. If wet a five stand shoot will be held after the Cliff Bradley trophy.

For all information on clay target shooting contact Norm Brook 0458664541; Tony Bratton (02) 68523349l Ben Smith 0427524151; Doug Davis (02) 68523249 & Phil Picker (02) 68516494. The next S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre and other rimfire rifle (.22 magnum or.17HMR).

The next Sunday will be held this Sunday February 16 2025 starting at 10am. The centre- fire shoot will take place at 2pm on Sunday after the rimfire shoot. Centre-fire shooters names in by 1-30pm so the targets can be placed on the Centre-fire range.

The next Wednesday shoot will be held on February 19, 2024 starting at 2pm.

All events are at the Bedgerebong road range, turn right off the Bedgerebong road onto Dr. Young Drive.

All target shooters are welcome. Any person wishing try rifle or shotgun shooting can attend any of these shoots to take part after filling out a P650 form at the club, Junior shooters must be 12 years or over.

For all information on .22 calibre rimfire shooting contact: Wayne Facey 0414524059; Norm Brook 0458664541; Ben Smith 0427524151; David Coleman 0427401263.

Members are reminded that local range rules apply to all Forbes SSAA ranges.

SSAA members should check the facebook 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. Forbes sporting shooters will hold their Annual General meeting on Wednesday March 12 at the Forbes Sport & Rec Club starting at 8pm.

PHOTO: Jenny Kingham

Back in the pool: Eugowra hosts Small Towns Shield carnival

The fabulous weather was a big positive for the 2025 Eugowra Swim Meet which brought more than 130 swimmers from across the central west small schools for a day of swimming races competing in the Small Towns Shield.

Eugowra, Cudal, Molong and Manildra teams all swam, while Yeoval and Cumnock had the bye due to there only being five lanes in the 25m Eugowra Pool.

Children between the ages of five and 18 swam in their age divisions in all strokes and the medley, and the presence of many supporting families actively involved in the meet and the level of encouragement for all of the children was great to see.

The Eugowra Junior Sports Club swimmers did their town proud.

Huge thanks are extended to all the parents, grandparents and community members who helped to make the day run smoothly.

AO a ‘money can’t buy’ experience

By Parkes Coach Helen Magill

What an amazing Summer of tennis it has been throughout all the capital cities leading into Melbourne and the Australian Open Grand Slam Tournament.

The hundreds of players from around the World who travelled down under with their teams to have the chance to play in the rst Grand Slam of 2025 along with the thousands of visitors from overseas, most of whom le their chilly winters to explore all things Australia, stopping o in Melbourne and enjoying the beautiful warm weather o erings.

In sport and business we o en talk about ‘Money Can’t Buy’ experiences and how impactful they can be on generations of families.

Twenty Parkes and Forbes HotShots tennis players and their families were treated to two magical ‘money can’t buy’ days recently during the Australian Open Grand Slam event in Melbourne.

Unlike the domestic sports which run weekly throughout their seasons, for us involved in Tennis, we have a very small window when we have the opportunity at a World class event to make a signicant impact on the ground and inspire those around us.

Ten years ago I organised a trip to Melbourne for 30 kids to have a ‘money can’t buy’ experience and those positive memories are still talked about today so I thought it was time to organise another big crew to have a similar unforgettable experience.

The Australian Open is such a signi cant event in the tennis calendar now so we see hundreds of Coaches, mostly from Victoria, apply to have a group of a maximum of 10 participate.

The organisation and application process began in September and by mid December notice came through from Tennis Australia that

the group of 20 would be accepted for a ‘HotShots Kids on Court Experience’.

Our Australian Open adventure started early on Day 1 of the Tournament when I was asked if our group would do a Channel 9 Today Show cross on site from Garden Square in Melbourne Park.

The families were keen and arrived at around 7am well before the public and the kids played with some of the activations before rehearsing and then were all involved in their minutes of fame on television.

We were escorted o to a VIP area where all the Sta , O cials and Ballkids hang out and eat throughout each day and night of the event.

The whole group were treated to a delicious breakfast by Tennis Australia which was very kind before Zoe Amery and Ben Westcott performed special duties at the O cial Opening Ceremony celebrating 50 years since John Newcombe won the Australian Open. Evonne Goolagong also won that year (1974,1975, 1976).

This was still prior to the public being allowed into the precinct so our group had front row viewing of the ceremony and all the dignitaries involved.

The Honourable Steve Dimopoulos MP Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events even came across to meet the kids, ask some questions and take some photos with them.

Their day of being little superstars was continuing.

The anticipation was building for the kids as the gates opened and the public came racing into Melbourne Park to secure their seats on the outside courts.

The night before I received notice that our group had been chosen to play on Rod Laver Arena so I couldn’t contain my excitement and had contacted all the families to advise.

The kids were ‘pumped’ to get out on court and show their skills to all the people who were coming into RLA to nd their seats and get ready for Day 1 of the Australian Open.

Whilst the families were escorted into Rod Laver Arena to get their phone cameras ready, the kids were taken into a special li which goes underneath the courts.

They were taken on a tour through the tunnels and the guide explained where the player lounges were, the tournament boxes to report in, media centre etc and their

eyes were wide open exploring everything and asking plenty of questions.

We were led onto court by Ivy Skinner from Forbes who was beaming with a big smile.

Ivy is one of the leading juniors in the Central West and loved leading the group out onto Rod Laver Arena.

We all sat courtside and watched the players nish their practice sessions before it was time for the kids from Parkes and Forbes to show their skills.

The courtside commentator announced our group as representing Parkes to the people in the stadium to a big cheer and applause and their time to be next level ‘super stars’ had commenced.

I had invited Chloe and Clare Amery, who were part of the Parkes coaching team last year, to come onto Rod Laver Arena with me to assist with the delivery.

Tennis Australia had asked if a younger group of players could show some coordination skills with racquet and ball that we do in the HotShots program as a spectacle for the camera crew to get footage for later use throughout the year, while others in our group were asked to rally on the courts.

The parents, grandparents

and even great grandparents were in the front rows of Rod Laver looking proud as punch and watching intently. Most wished they had those VIP seats for the actual matches later on.

Lara Amery did a super job lming 10-15sec grabs for other media outlets while I was out on court taking plenty of action shots.

Seven-year-old Alessandro Villella, who is a con dent public speaker, volunteered to represent the group and be interviewed on court about his amazing experience which beamed across the big screens for all to see and hear.

As the clock ticked over to almost noon we nished on court, got a special group photo behind the ‘Melbourne’ sign and the group received more applause from the crowd for their e orts.

Now it was time for Ivey Rousell to shine.

Ivey was put forward as a candidate to toss the coin during Day 1. It wasn’t con rmed until quite late that Ivey would be accompanying John Newcombe on court to reveal his commemorative coin for the opening match.

All the Parkes players formed a guard of honour

as rstly the professional players walked out from the tunnel, followed by Ivey with John Newcombe, in front of a now packed stadium.

Ivey had been practising her coin tosses since Christmas Day and despite the nerves, tossed the coin perfectly and was lucky enough to keep the coin as a memento of the occasion.

The group exited and were reunited with their families, took a few deep breaths and then it was time to explore the precinct and all things Australian Open from the TopCourt which was an area full of gaming activities, Pop and Padel Tennis, Mecca makeup and hair as well as a nail salon, to the ever popular HotShots Ballpark which had a plethora of fun activities as well as a multi-tiered water slide.

Some of the group ventured to the practise courts to watch Carlos Alcaraz and Alex DeMinaur training while others found a few seats on Kia Arena to watch matches.

Finally to nish Day 1, Tennis Australia gi ed the kids with a bag each of Australian Open and HotShots merch in appreciation of their early start and helping with media commitments.

Amity McMahon in the Eugowra junior sports colours.

PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

Eugowra committee members Katrina Noble, Damien Gilmore and Jake Eppelstun.

Eugowra hosts its first swimming carnival in years.

Hotshots kids under Rod Laver Arena where the players walk through. Zoe Amery and Ivy Skinner enjoyed the walk through.

IVEY LEADS WAY TO AUSTRALIAN OPEN

LOCAL

tennis juniors have had the experience

of a lifetime at the Australian Open.

Ivey Rousell joined seven-time Grand Slam singles champion John Newcombe on Rod Laver Arena to reveal the official Australian Open match coin.

The seven-year-old from Forbes then had the honour of conducting the coin toss before the first game on Rod Laver Arena, between world No.5 Qinwen Zheng and Anca Todoni.

■ Full story inside

▶ Ivey Rousell on court with Anca Todoni, John Newcombe, and Qinwen Zhang for the coin toss. PHOTO: Supplied

Trainers go the extra mile

Bedgerabong races draw return visitors

By COLIN HODGES

SO impressed was Queensland trainer Benno Bowen with his rst visit in 2023, he intends again making the 750 kilometres trip from Cunnamulla, with ve starters for the picnic meeting on Saturday at Bedgerabong.

Speaking to club o cials earlier this week, Bowen said the hospitality at his previous visit was tremendous and he had been amazed by the presentation of the turf track and racecourse which is widely recognised as one

of the most scenic in New South Wales.

Prior to a two months break, the Bowen team had raced at Moree and in Queensland at Thangool, Charleville and Roma.

Nominated for Bedgerabong are Glide On By, Karakaroo, The White Mouse, Goldie’s Power and Flying To Mars.

Meanwhile, Dubbo-based Connie Greig will continue her quest for yet another NSW Picnic Trainers Premiership with a big team nominated including Laisvas in the 1400 metres Bedgerabong Picnic Cup and Billy Bent Ear in the feature sprint, the 800 metres Clearview Bracelet Handicap.

Billy Bent Ear boasts a size-

able fan club but under the Rules Of Racing will have to retire when turning 13 years of age on the 1st of August 2025.

During a wonderful career, Billy Bent Ear has recorded 19 wins and 44 placings from 159 starts and earned $281,075 prizemoney.

Brazilian jockey Leandro Ribeiro now based in Muswellbrook is a multiple winner of the NSW Picnic Riders Premiership and is

likely to ride most of the Connie Greig-trained runners.

Other notable gallopers amongst the 63 nominations for Bedgerabong include the Rodney Robb, Nyngan trained All Words winner of the Betoota Cup in Queensland before a long spell and the Daniel Stanley, Wellington trained Bush Warrior, winner last season of the $50,000 NSW Picnic Championship Final at Coonamble. Final acceptances are due to be declared on Thursday February 13 at 9am. Tickets for Bedgerabong need to be purchased online in advance of the meeting. Tickets at www.123tix.com. au/events/46582/bedgerabong-picnic-races

Saturday’s feature race is the Bedgerabong Picnic Cup and in 2024 Ricky Blewitt rode the Clint Lundholm-trained Tupou to the win.