FA20250220

A better connection

Bridge and when the new bridge is built it will make life so much easier for local residents and freight operators,” he said.

Sun shines on Bedgerabong’s big race day

have asked for better conditions for it.

Saturday

Crowds turned out in droves to enjoy the rural hospitality, cheer on the horses, take part in the foot races, and finally dance the night away with live music.

Photos, pages 12 and 13, racing page 19.

bridge was built in 1909 and is not suitable for use by modern agricultural equipment or heavy vehicles with higher mass limit loads.

Independent Member for Orange Phil Donato said it was great to see the contract had been awarded and construction was on track to commence.

“Communities in our region rely on Warroo

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said she was excited to see construction start on the new Warroo Bridge, which will have wider travel lanes and better road approaches; increased load capacity for heavy vehicles and improved access for wide vehicles.

The new bridge is expected to be open to trafc in late 2026, weather permitting.

The existing Warroo Bridge will remain open

to tra c throughout the construction of the replacement bridge and will be removed completely once the new bridge is operational. Transport for NSW will update the community as construction progresses. For more information on the project visit nswroads.work/warroobridge At Garema, works on the approaches to the Boyd Creek Bridge are nearing completion and a report to this month’s Forbes Shire Council meeting says the old bridge is scheduled to be demolished in the coming weeks.

The new concrete Warroo Bridge will be built a few metres upstream of the original timber truss bridge.

PHOTO: Supplied

The week’s stormy skies cleared to glorious blue right on time for the 2025 Bedgerabong Picnic Races.

dawned a little chiller than we’ve been used to this February, but the volunteer committee that runs the annual races couldn’t

2025 Bedgerabong Picnic Races Best Dressed winners - Best Dressed Gentleman Warren Cochrane, Best Headwear Sally Martin, Best Dressed Lady (Open) Elizabeth Paterson and Local Best Dressed Lady Kathryn Blackstock. PHOTO: Jenny Kingham

Rex may be nationalised if no private buyer found

By KAT WONG and JACOB SHTEYMAN for AAP

The federal government could buy out regional carrier Rex Airlines if a suitable private sector bidder can’t be found.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government would work with Rex administrators to nd a buyer committed to providing ongoing service to the regions, value for money and good governance.

If that falls through, Labor will begin working on contingency plans - including preparations for a potential Commonwealth acquisition.

government now had to deal with.

“The collapse of Rex ... endangers access of these regional communities throughout Australia to our capital cities and to the connectivity that is so vital for the quality of life, so vital for these local economies as well,” Mr Albanese told reporters in Merimbula, on the NSW south coast.

During the previous coalition government, Rex received substantial Commonwealth support in the form of JobKeeper payments and direct funds, Mr Albanese said.

But without strings attached to the payments, Rex expanded beyond its means into capital city routes, leaving it in a “ nancial mess” that his

This will be the second attempt to sell Rex a er it fell into voluntary administration in mid-2024.

Federal Transport Minister Catherine King said it was evident through the rst sales process that without government support, a private sale was unlikely to be successful.

“My department will work with successful bidders on an incentives package from the Commonwealth government,” she said.

“It is absolutely critical for regional communities that Rex continues to operate and continues to provide those services.

“We know they are ying 41 di erent routes every single week, and on

22 of those, they are the only airline that is available to communities to get to medical appointments, to get businesses working, to get people in and out for tourism.”

Questions were raised over the government’s role in Rex’s future a er it acquired $50 million of debt from Rex’s largest creditor to ensure the airline could continue operations and loaned up to $80 million so the carrier could run regional routes until the end of June.

Should Rex be nationalised, it would be the rst time a federal government has owned an airline in three decades a er Qantas was privatised in 1995.

Deputy opposition leader Sussan

WHAT’S ON in and around Forbes

COMMUNITY CHECK-IN

Sunday February 23

Talk2MeBro is hosting its rst community catch up of the year at the ski dam from 7.30am on February 23. This is for men and women, o ering a morning of breath work, connection, co ee and ice baths. Talk2MeBro is a registered charity and their mission is to bring awareness to mental health, o ering free community events to break down the stigma around receiving support. It’s free but you can register online through https://www.talk2mebrocatchups. org.au/forbes/

FLOOD RECOVERY

CHECK IN

Wednesday, February 26

This free session will help participants to manage thoughts and feelings commonly experienced two years a er a natural disaster. This night is presented by Phil Worrad from the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program with Legal Aid, Reconstruction NSW, NSW Ambulance and Council attending. It’s at the Forbes Rugby Club, Gordon Du Drive, from 5pm - 6.30pm. 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. RSVP February 20 to events@ forbes.nsw.gov.au or 6850 2300.

WIRRINYA AQUATIC CLUB

COCKTAIL EVENING

Saturday, March 1

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. A return bus service from Forbes will be available - be sure to purchase your bus ticket when booking or camp onsite. Tickets online now at 123tix.com.au

CARP MUSTER

March 1

OzFish is hosting a Carp Muster on Saturday 1 March 2025 at the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre at Lake Forbes. You can sh at Lake Forbes, or anywhere in the region, as long as you’re back at the OzFish hub at the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre at 2pm to weigh in your carp. It’s free to enter and there are prizes for the biggest carp and most carp caught, with categories for kids, teens and adults. In order to enter your carp into the prize categories, you must also collect at least 50 items of rubbish from local waterways. A prize will also be given for most rubbish collected. Registration begins at 6am at the OzFish hub at the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre. This is a catch and release event for natives!

JOURNALISTS

OPEN DAY AT LAKESHORE EARLY LEARNING

Saturday, March 1

Ley blamed the government’s “failure of management” for allowing Rex to go under in the rst place.

“Governments shouldn’t own airlines,” she told Sky News.

“Because that means that taxpayers own them and taxpayers pay for them.”

Mr Albanese said when markets failed, the government had to intervene in the aviation sector and look out for regional communities.

“We know internationally, Air New Zealand next door is owned more than 50 per cent by the government,” he said.

“The reason why governments have intervened in airlines around the world, whether you look at Singapore, BA got bailed out, Alitalia, Lu hansa, as well as of course the Middle Eastern Airlines, are all connected with their governments.

“There’s a reason for that, because aviation plays a critical role in communities.”

The government has also guaranteed Rex’s regional ight slots at Sydney Airport until October 2026.

The Transport Workers’ Union said nationalising Rex would be a

Council comment

IT has been a busy week with a host of meetings with NSW Government Ministers including MLA Member for Penrith Karen McKeown, Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison, Water Minister Rose Jackson, Planning and Public Spaces Minister Paul Scully and Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig.

Also in my role as Local Government NSW President, I have been working with several LGAs which have had signi cant rate variations. Forbes Shire Council is very fortunate we have had a consistent plan of developing our own source revenue. Own source revenue prevents us from being solely reliant on rate revenue. It is good to have other revenue streams rather than having to raise rates over and above rate pegging.

www.forbesadvocate.com.au

Between 10am and midday on March 1, join a tour of this newlytransformed centre at 26 Bandon Street.

Meet the team of educators and see the amazing spaces. This is a great opportunity for the community.

CENTRAL WEST FARMING LUNCH

Friday, March 7

IWD BREAKFAST SAT, MARCH 8

Central West Farming Systems is hosting a free ladies lunch and 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. Bookings are essential through trybooking.com

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

Saturday, March 8

Forbes Shire Council invites you to celebrate International Women’s Day 2025 with breakfast at Lions Park from 7am to 10am. Inspirational guest speakers are Kelly Foran and Belinda Mawhinney. Tickets online 123tix. com.au - $30 per person.

Renee Powell 0448 238 023

rpowell@midwestmedia.com.au

Brendan McCool 0448 238 254

bmccool@midwestmedia.com.au

CLASSIFIEDS 02 6342 1044

mbrown@midwestmedia.com.au

ADVERTISING

Courtney Gambrill 0448 248 080

cgambrill@midwestmedia.com.au

Saturday March 8

This great event returns to Forbes Sports and Recreation Club, with teams of three invited to register for this fun day and fundraiser for Forbes CanAssist. It’s $25 including lunch, details at the club.

LIONS MARKETS

Saturday, March 15

Lions markets by Lake Forbes are back and they have a new purpose: to celebrate our local heroes. All proceeds of the Lions Club BBQ at the regular markets will go to a nominated bunch of local heroes. This month it’s the Forbes SES and every cent will go to the local unit. The markets are at Lions Park, Lake Forbes. Stallholders contact Peter Bright 0429 463 803 or Chuck Smith 0487 858 551 or email forbes.nsw@ lions.org.au

Next week, the Business Chamber is hosting a Networking Night in Forbes on Monday 24 February at Club Forbes. This event is a fantastic opportunity for Forbes business owners to connect, share ideas, and build valuable relationships- speakers from the Forbes Advocate and 2PK Radio. All businesses are welcome. For more information, contact the Forbes Business Chamber 0436 316 868 or email info@ forbesbusinesschamber. com.au

Thank you to the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program for hosting a Flood Recovery Check in on Wednesday 26 February at the Rugby Club from 5pm. Our community is still recovering and on the night you will nd out coping mechanisms and also have the chance for a FREE physical check up. Contact Phil Worrad on 0436 921 076 to RSVP.

Remember to come along to one of my favourite nights of the year – the Welcome to Forbes event at the Vandenberg Hotel on Thursday 27 February. Please come along to welcome our newest residents, make sure you invite your new neighbour, colleague or friends. It is such a fun night. If you are new to town, please come along and meet our council, community and sporting groups and other new residents.

God Bless, Phyllis Miller OAM

Phillip Wells’ vision to help others never faded

A er 50 years in optometry - 48 of those in Forbes - it’s time for Phillip Wells to retire.

The good news is he’s delighted to be leaving his practice in excellent hands with the arrival of Graham Shipway, who’s relocated from Bunbury in WA.

“It’s been a lovely time, I’ve had great patients - a really loyal client base,” Phillip said of the Forbes practice.

“So many have become friends ... I’ve seen probably three generations in some families.

“I was just grateful that Graham has come and let me retire gracefully.”

Phillip has been a constant at the Rankin Street practice since July 1976.

“The practice had been established in 1975 by a friend of mine from university ... I’ve been here ever since,” he said with a smile.

Philip had spent time in Forbes attending Red Bend Catholic College and it was while he was a student there that he was inspired to study optometry.

Phillip was taken to the optometrist and experiencing the di erence of discovering he was short-sighted and getting a pair of prescription glasses set him on the pathway for his career.

Forbes practice.

“To me, that was a wonderful thing to do, to be able to make people see clearly,” he said. Decades on, optometry has changed but Phillip’s vision to help people never changed: he and his practice have adapted to meet the changing needs of our population with the technology available.

Everything from an extended average life expectancy to increasing screen time has contributed to increased needs in the eld of optometry.

Phillip has also seen cataract surgery go from a procedure requiring several days’ hospitalisation to a routine day procedure

and - with the introduction of intra ocular lenses - recovery times are much faster.

We are more likely to wear sunglasses and protect our eyes from UV, but also more likely to be using screens from a young age - and need regular eye checks even through childhood.

Of course technology has also had a huge impact within optometry with technology enabling earlier detection and monitoring of sight-threatening changes.

Lenses have gone from being made of glass to being resin, which is lighter, safer to wear, and has a higher UV lter.

At the practice at 67 Rankin Street, Sue Hancock will continue in her role, providing her usual friendly introduction to the practice, and Graham has taken the reins.

Graham is an experienced optometrist, with experiencing serving regional and remote Western Australia.

Phillip and Fleur extend their best wishes to Graham.

They have plans for travel and spending more time with their grandchildren, as well as in the garden and on the golf course.

“I’ve been here 48 years, this is basically home now,” Phillip said.

Vehicle theft a hit to Show, its volunteers

A Polaris side-by-side vehicle has been stolen from our Show society over the weekend.

The green Polaris Ranger was stolen from a shed on the Showground on the evening of Sunday, February 16, and Forbes police are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed or have information about the theft to contact police.

The vehicle is essential to the running of the grounds, Forbes Show Society says, appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

“This is a huge financial hit to the show and very disappointing to our volunteers,” the Show Society posted to their facebook page.

Police are also investigating a break-in at a Lucerne Street premises.

Household items were stolen from the property between Friday, February 14, and Sunday, February 16.

Report suspicious activity or crime to Forbes police station on 6853 9999 or CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.

There’s been another vehicle fire in Forbes this week but police do not believe this one to be suspicious.

Emergency services were called to Park Avenue about 3am Tuesday, February 18, to a vehicle fire.

NSW Fire and Rescue Forbes said they found a vehicle well alight, the flames having ignited nearby bushes and trees as well. They worked quickly to extinguish the blaze with no people affected, but one vehicle suffered extensive damage and two more vehicles minor damage.

Police said initial investigations indicated the fire was not suspicious, Fire and Rescue identifying a battery charger left on and connected to the vehicle as the likely cause.

Police are urging community members to take security precautions: make sure vehicles and houses - both windows and doors - are locked and secured each night. Remove any valuables and spare keys from vehicles.

Phillip Wells is delighted to welcome Graham Shipway to take on the

Can you help get this Polaris Ranger returned to Forbes Show? Contact police.

PHOTO: Forbes Show

Councils’ call to save community justice centres

FORBES Garden Club has been operating for over 70 years and consequently we have achieved so much over those years.

On November 11, 2023 we celebrated the milestone of 70 years with a special Birthday luncheon held in the beautiful historic Town Hall whereby a number of the past Presidents were present on the day (some having passed away) and Elvy Quirk the current President gave a brief outline of the Club history with some memorabilia displayed.

Over the years we have held many Open Garden events with the last Open Gardens being a two day event held in October 2023.

This was an amazing event showcasing eight gardens from the smaller town garden, the Community gardens (run by volunteers)

Save date for Garden Club AGM

to the larger scale country garden. Many came from far and wide to visit and to get ideas of what can be grown.

The Open Garden of 2023 raised almost $6000 for various charities.

To get this o the ground an amazing amount of work was done by the executive and volunteers prior to and on the two day showcasing.

We also over the years have held many flower shows where locals displayed their own grown exhibits with many coming from out of town as well as locals to get ideas and enjoy an afternoon out.

Last year it was decided that with the ageing of many members we should just revert to a social club with all the work done by previous executive.

We gather on the fourth

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, addressed to The General Manager, can be emailed to forbes@forbes.nsw.gov.au, or alternatively PO Box 333, 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).

Pre Lodgement Meetings

Forbes Shire Council encourages any party planning to lodge a Development Application to book a pre lodgement meeting first. Council offers pre lodgement meetings to assist applicants and ensure they know what they need to have their application approved. These meetings give applicants the chance to meet with a member of Council’s Planning department, introduce their project/plans to them and learn what they can and cannot do, and what they will need for a successful application. By booking a meeting applicants will help avoid any delays during the lodgement process caused by lack of information. To book a pre-lodgement meeting please contact Forbes Shire Council on (02) 6850 2300 or development@forbes.nsw.gov.au

The peak body for local government in NSW is calling on the State Government to reverse its decision to close all Community Justice Centres (CJCs) in June.

Local Government NSW (LGNSW) President Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM said shutting down the free mediation service would have devastating consequences for some of the state’s most disadvantaged residents.

Tuesday of each month mostly in a chosen garden whereby we get ideas and share a ernoon tea with like minded people.

On Tuesday February 25, 2025 at 2 pm at the Mens shed we are holding our Annual General Meeting.

All interested persons are asked to attend and put forward ideas to try and keep the club a oat.

Hopefully there are some members who will put their hand up to take a position.

Don’t let the club slip away as it is o en very di cult to reform once lost.

A ra e will be held on the day but it is decided to not hold Flower of the Month display. A ernoon tea as usual.

“The garden is a place of Peace”.

Contributed by ELVY QUIRK

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

Tender 2024-30 - Provision of Cleaning Services - Public Amenities

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

Forbes Store Cattle sale

Friday 28th February 2025 Commencing at 10am

1200 Good Quality Cattle

CJCs o er an equitable legal pathway ... providing mediation and dispute resolution services and avoiding costly formal legal action.

- PHYLLIS MILLER OAM PRESIDENT LGNSW

“CJCs o er an equitable legal pathway that vulnerable people in our communities might not otherwise a ord, providing mediation and dispute resolution services and avoiding costly formal legal action,” Mayor Miller said.

“Whether it be a dispute over fencing, overhanging branches, pets, privacy, access to land, or building/renovation works, the mediation services provided by CJCs are critical to helping communities resolve issues outside of court.”

The NSW Government’s Communities and Justice websites says Community Justice Centres received 8672 enquiries in 2022-23 and arranged 749 mediations.

They resolved: 79 per cent of neighbourhood disputes; 63 per cent of family disputes; 68 per cent of court referred matters; and 81 per cent of non-court referred matters.

But a Department of Communities and Justice spokesperson said the government would be closing Community Justice Centres from June 30, 2025 as there are other services available.

“People in NSW have many avenues to access mediation services that help them

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.

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, and be part of a supportive and lively community. Mark your calendars and join us to Give it a Go! Event, activity and workshop dates and times to be confirmed in the 2025 Seniors Guide. You can get a copy of the guide by contact Council’s Events Officer via events@ forbes.nsw.gov.au or on 6850 2300.

resolve their disputes quickly and informally where possible and appropriate,” a spokesperson said in a response provided to Mid West Media.

“As these have become more widely available the demand for Community Justice Centres (CJCs) has fallen signi cantly.

“The Government will continue to connect people with alternate services and resources that can help them resolve matters outside of the court system, through services such as LawAccess which provides comprehensive information about legal rights and advice about how best to deal with disputes.”

Legal Aid has seen a 10 per cent increase in need - that story page 6.

Mayors and councillors feel the elimination of CJCs will create a costly barrier to justice, Mayor Miller said.

“It will also force many residents to turn to formal legal channels - if they can a ord them - clogging the courts, tying up police resources, and delaying outcomes for countless individuals and families,” Mayor Miller said.

Mayor Miller said that removing options for free mediation would potentially escalate tensions and called on the Government to continue funding.

“Late last year LGNSW wrote to the NSW Attorney General expressing concern about reports that all CJCs would be closed from 30 June 2025,” Mayor Miller said.

“The NSW Attorney General has now responded con rming the closure.”

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

Forbes Garden Club is a social club that meets monthly mostly in a chosen garden where they share ideas.

PHOTOS: Elvy Quirk

EDUCATORS (BACK)

ELLA GREENHALGH, KATE STEWART (FRONT) EBONY O’MALLEY, MAGGIE HANLEY AND CENTRE DIRECTOR MICHELLE CATHERWOOD WITH COCKATIELS SUGAR AND SPICE.

THE much-anticipated Lakeshore Early Learning is up and running - and now there is an opportunity for locals to come in and see it.

Passers-by have seen hints of the transformation of what was once the Sullivan’s supermarket: on Saturday March 1 the doors will be open to the community and interested families.

Centre director Michelle Catherwood remembers shopping at Sullivan’s as a child, and she and the team are eager to showcase the absolutely wonderful space now to the community.

All are welcome, Michelle and most of the team will be there on the day to speak with those enquiring about availability for childcare.

“We’ll be showcasing what we do have on o er so we’ll have experi-

ences for the kids set up,” Michelle said.

“We’ve got water play out the back, the animals will be out for them to interact with.

“Everyone can meet the amazing team and chef Tammy will be making some amazing food so there’ll be some yummy treats.”

There’s a goat named Gru , a couple of sheep, blue tongue lizards and two carpet pythons who all make up the Lakeshore family.

Children collect the eggs laid by their four hens every day, care for their pet turtle, and everyone is friends with the cockatiels named Sugar and Spice.

If you’re thinking this sounds pretty unique, you’re right.

“Born to be wild: Bringing kids back to their ‘wildhood’” is the centre’s motto, Michelle says.

Michelle, who grew up around Forbes and Parkes, has been in the early childhood sector for 20 years a er studying her primary degree in Queensland and her diploma back in NSW.

She has worked around this area as an assistant educator, room leader and centre manager before having her own children.

Michelle has now settled here with her family and is relishing the role and seeing children enjoy all the experiences Lakeshore o ers.

“I love being able to interact with all of the kids as well as the educators and families,” Michelle said

“I love watching those families grow from the nursery through to the preschool, seeing those connections we have with them and can build on.

“It’s really lovely.”

Open day to showcase transformation

Lakeshore has six rooms catering for babies through to school preparation.

They have two nursery rooms: for nought to one, and one to twoyear-olds and two toddler rooms for two to three-year-olds.

The juniors room is for three to four-year-olds and nally the preschool room is for four to veyear-olds preparing for big school.

There’s a dedicated nought to two-year-old playscape just for the nursery children, so they can have their own space.

Older children have an incredible space where they get to interact with the goat, sheep and chickens, as well as have a little goldrush creek and a yarning circle.

“We’ve got water play, we’ve got di erent textures on the ground,

we encourage the kids to take their shoes o - just be kids basically,” Michelle said.

“We want to see everyone having fun and learning in the process - and having those animals adds that extra layer.”

There is some availability across all rooms but it is limited, you can speak to the team about that.

Lakeshore is eligible for the government’s Start Strong Funding for children to access free preschool in the lead up to school, within the long daycare centre which operates from 6.30am to 6.30pm. The centre uses Xplor so parents are updated through the day about food, nap times and of course photos of their child’s day.

Find out more at lakeshoreel. com.au phone 6850 1255 or visit them on March 1.

Lakeshore Early Learning is excited to announce the opening of its brand-new childcare centre, now enrolling for 2025.

Join us for an Open Day on Saturday, 1st March, from 10 AM to 12 PM, and explore our state-of-the-art facility. Meet our friendly staff, barnyard animals and reptiles, and enjoy delicious food prepared by our chef.

Come see what makes Lakeshore Early Learning the perfect place for your child’s growth and development!

For more information and enrolments, contact us on 02 6850 1255 or admin@lakeshoreel.com.au

Reagan loving meeting the blue tongue lizards.

Saige and Ryder with Gru the goat.

XAVIER PRACTISING HIS SKILLS WITH SCISSORS.

10pc increase in need for Legal Aid

Demand for free legal help in NSW has grown signi cantly, with tens of thousands more people seeking help from Legal Aid NSW as cost-of-living pressures increase.

The sharp rise comes as Legal Aid NSW considers how to meet this additional demand with available funding.

“We have seen enormous demand for our services in recent years and expect it to rise further,” said Legal Aid NSW CEO Monique Hitter.

“Many NSW people are dealing with more legal problems but are less able to pay for a lawyer due to nancial pressures.”

The organisation’s 2023–24 annual report shows they provided more than half a million services last nancial year, up 10 per

cent on 2022–23.

The free legal help line and web chat service, LawAccess NSW, handled almost 200,000 enquiries. Calls to that service grew 25 per cent last nancial year, with many enquiries related to legal problems regarding family law and parenting arrangements, employment issues, driving, disputes over goods and services, and debts.

“Early access to our free legal advice can help to resolve those legal problems before they worsen signi cantly,” said Ms Hitter. “That’s good for families, the court system and the wider community.”

In the courts, legal representation by LegalAid rose by 14 per cent, with a 10 per cent jump in the number of services provided by duty

lawyers who deliver on-thespot free assistance at courts across NSW.

There was also a 20 per cent increase in mediation services that help separating couples reach out-of-court agreements, with a record 3,307 mediation services.

“Unfortunately, our current funding does not allow us to o er our services to all of those people who really need them,” Ms Hitter said.

“This includes people below the poverty line who do not qualify for a grant of legal aid because their income is still not deemed to be low enough.

“We will continue to work closely with the Commonwealth and State Governments to ensure we can continue to meet growing demand for our services.”

Call to support VIEW’s vital work for Smith Family

FORBES VIEW Club is on the lookout for new members who want to give back to their community and make new connections with women in the area.

VIEW, which stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women, is a network of close to 280 clubs and over 13,000 women throughout Australia.

For 65 years VIEW has connected with others in the community, enabling The Smith Family to reach more families in need.

It provides a place for women to connect with each other, enjoy social activities, and develop lasting friendships – all while supporting the work of children’s education charity, The Smith Family.

“This year when we are celebrating 65 years of Making a Di erence, is the perfect time to join VIEW as social events are truly back on the calendar including a fashion parade, an a er-

noon tea, a theatre visit, a trivia night and sausage sizzle,” Forbes Club President, Helen Pitt said.

“Our events and activities are a way that we raise funds to support the education of children and young people experiencing disadvantage through The Smith Family.”

VIEW is proud to be the largest community sponsor of The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, which provides students with nancial, educational and personal support.

“This is crucial, particularly in the current economic climate,” Helen said.

“We have all been hit by the rising cost of living, be it power prices, food or petrol. But these rises have had an even greater impact on those already doing it tough.

“Parents shouldn’t have to choose between putting dinner on the table or buying their child a uniform for school.

“This is why it is so important that we can help children experiencing disadvantage with their education.”

VIEW nationally supports the education of nearly 1,800 students through the Learning for Life program, ensuring that they have educational support and what they need for the school year. Forbes VIEW Club currently supports 11 students.

“We are always looking for women of all backgrounds and ages to join us and look forward to welcoming new faces at our next monthly meeting,” Helen said.

Anyone interested in becoming a member can call Helen Pitt on 0427201445 or visit www.view.org.au for further information.

The next Forbes VIEW Club meeting will take place at Club Forbes on Thursday March 13 at 12 noon. Could all members please contact their respective committee member to RSVP.

Graham as Flo Rida.

PHOTO: Aaron Murray

The finale had the audience on their feet.

Tom, Phil and Nick took the stage.

PHOTO: Aaron Murray of Black Market Media

Leigh and Michele as hosts kept the audience entertained. PHOTO: Aaron Murray of Black Market Media

Kristi and Clinton Breen.

Sheryl Garner and Kimberley Ryan.

Jude Prior, Denise Hopkins, Jane Armitage, Teresa Armitage and Siobhan O’Malley.

Oh what a night! $20,000 raised for Vision Australia

Oh what a night!

This is the only way to describe the One Night Only Variety Show held at Club Forbes last Saturday night.

A mammoth $20,765 was raised from the evening with an incredible 370 in attendance.

The cause is the Abel Tasman Trek for Vision 2025, which is taking place in New Zealand from April 29 to May 3, 2025 commencing at Nelson on the South Island.

Local ladies Michele Quigley and Leigh Bartholomaeus have put their hands up to take part in the trek which raises funds for Vision Australia - Quality Living Groups.

This is a cause close to their hearts as Michele was diagnosed with cone dystrophy, a genetic condition also a ecting her father and sister, in 2014.

When the opportunity arose to give back, Michele jumped at it as did her faithful friend, Leigh.

“I’m so very fortunate to be surrounded by such supportive family and friends,” Michele said.

So began the adventure for Trish-hard Trekkers.

The ladies wanted to make the most out of any fundraising opportunity, and major brainstorming led to the concept of a variety night.

This is something that Michele had been involved in previously (the last one being 2013) and the troops were rallied.

“They say it takes a village to raise a child – well we called in all our favours for this one,” Michele said.

their powerful renditions.

The big night came and the auditorium at Club Forbes was packed, the audience abuzz in anticipation of the entertainment.

Leigh and Michele hosted, having the crowd in stitches with their back-and-forth banter.

Also featured was the musical talents of Nick Quigley, Tom Quigley, Phil Prior, Judy Prior and Marg Breadon bringing the house down with

Making appearances were Vicar of Quigley (Deb Prior and Maria Willis); Janelle’s Beautay Spot (Kristy Hartwig and Lisa Moon); Pedro the Painter (Brian King); and Flo Rida (Graham Ruge).

Together with a spattering of audience participation the crowd kept entertained late into the evening.

As well as Club Forbes going out of their way to accommodate the ladies and their needs (which were many!) the ladies were backed up by their very good friends with

sound and lighting.

“It’s all these behind the scene things that glue a good show together and with Mark and Shorty we would have struggled to not only be heard but seen,” Michele said.

an, Kaz and Lisa. An extraordinary e ort.

Mentions must go to Mick and Mick on props, Dylan on lights and Maddi their assistant.

Special mention also to Sheryl, Kim, Caz and Tom who handled crowd control at the door and the girls who su ered carpal tunnel writing ra e tickets all night: Paigan, Danica, Cherie, Meg-

Michele and Leigh are very grateful for the support from the community and local businesses including: Kevin and Jayne Norrie of Avenue 36, Mollymook, Bill Dukes of Jelbart & Dawson, Kellie Hanley Sharp Art, The Wellness Co Forbes, Eyewear Specs, Bernardi’s Marketplace, RISE Physio, The Book Dispensary, Woolerina, Farmhouse Florae, Global Gatherings, Jessica’s Essential Beauty, Little Extras Lifestyle, Blush Organic Beauty,

Down to Earth Pilates, V..Air Hairdresser, Mid-West Pest Management, Alison of Diamondesque, Held Collective, Gunns Mensland, Creative Chaos by Beck, Hansen’s Optometrists Parkes, Fiona Dunn, Forbes Central Butchery, Jenz Yogslates, Parkes, Marty & Clare, Matt Smith, EuphoriaRoad/Cahills Footwear, Pickles Co ee Collective, Painted Daisies, Judy Bell, Undercover Sleepwear & Lingerie, Wattle Cafe.

The ladies were overwhelmed by the response,

which enabled 22 prices on the night.

Leigh and Michele are now settling back into their training now for the trek in April and will continue to fundraise at any opportunity so they can achieve maximum results for Vision Australia. Should you wish to donate, please go online to https:// vision-australia.grassrootz. com/abeltasman-2025/trihard-trekkers

You can also follow their adventures on Facebook at Tri-hard Trekkers or Instagram at tri-hardtrekkers.

A resident of the Parkes electorate for more than 35 years, Jamie and his wife Judy have raised four children on their family grain and cattle farm. With a strong business background and a boilermaker by trade, Jamie has led the growth of his family’s engineering business, supporting key regional industries. As Gunnedah Shire Mayor and an active member of community group Jamie understands the needs of rural communities. He is committed to securing greater cost-of-living support for families including improved access to childcare. He backs greater support for small business, and sensible energy policy.

Glenn and Donna Pavey, Je and Ann Moon set for

Variety night hosts Michelle Quigley and Leigh Bartholomaeus are raising funds and preparing for the Abel Tasman Trek for Vision 2025.

Champions of our community

Continuing stories of locals recognised in NSW Parliament, with MP’s community recognition statements

ONE of the most rewarding parts of the job for our State Member of Parliament Philip Donato is recognising the e orts and achievements of people in our communities across the electorate.

Mr Donato regularly pays tribute in NSW Parliament to people from our elecorate, and in January brought people together to congratulate them in person.

“It’s amazing to discover the contributions made by individuals and organisations to our local community, as well as people’s remarkable personal or professional accomplishments,” Mr Donato said.

“Most of these people do not do what they do for any recognition whatsoever, which makes this presentation so much more worthwhile when I see these humble individuals being recognised by members of their community.”

Donna Bliss - CEO Yoorana Gunya

Yoorana Gunya o ers crucial services including medical care, mental health support, family violence assistance, and social and emotional wellbeing programs for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities.

Donna has been named Forbes’ Indigenous Person of the Year in 2020 and 2023 and received the Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council 2024 Sta Member of the Year award.

Starting as a receptionist 22 years ago, Donna has grown Yoorana Gunya into a multi-disciplinary Aboriginal Medical Service with a diverse team and visiting allied health services, such as a dietician, podiatrist, optometrist, audiologist, cardiologist, telehealth psychology and a visiting counsellor. Donna’s leadership and the team’s dedication provide invaluable support to Forbes and surrounding communities.

Arts Outwest

program, which has been instrumental in preserving and celebrating Indigenous culture.

those programs, with Mock Crash a standout as it addresses young people before they get behind the wheel.

Awarded by Safer Australian Roads and Highways, ‘Alex’s Award’ recognises former South Australian Senator, the late Alex Gallacher, a tireless campaigner for road safety. Rural communities rely on the road network to keep communities connected.

Logan Montgomery - Worldskills

Logan Montgomery won gold at the regional round of the 2025 World Skills competition in the tter-machinist trade category.

Logan is in the third year of his apprenticeship with Forbes rm Ace Machining under mentor Greg Drabsch.

The gold medal is a great reward for Logan who, during the regional competition, had six hours to complete a set of skills‑based tasks in the turning category. This included machining a bolt, nut and sleeve to speci cations that were then assembled within the required tolerances. Logan nished with time to spare and topped the competition, held at the Orange TAFE campus, with 81 points. As expected of a gold medalist, Logan’s work demonstrated accuracy, precision and patience. Best of luck at nationals, Logan.

Dan and Lana Nicholson - Topsoil Organics

The Central West of our state boasts a thriving cultural community and to a large extent, Arts OutWest has fostered that vibe. Mr Donato acknowledged the organisation’s 50 year anniversary, celebrated in Forbes in 2024, in parliament. Arts OutWest opens a window for just about every cultural pursuit from classical music to indigenous works and theater to lm festivals, drawing from the central west’s own rich culture.

Highlights of Arts OutWest’s contributions to our community include the Central West Short Play Festival, a showcase for local talent, and the Aboriginal Arts Development

Emily Riches and Maddison Hornery - Physie Emily Riches (11 years competition) and Maddison Hornery (12 years) were two of 15 dancers from Lachlan Valley United Physical Culture Club to qualify for the national competition of the Bjelke-Petersen School of Physical Culture in Sydney with the pair going on to qualify in the semi- nals. Maddison and Emily were part of a record cohort of dancers who advanced to Sydney from zone qualifying, illustrating the Lachlan Valley United club is doing some outstanding work training its participants.

The recipients of Business NSW’s excellence in sustainability award for 2023, Forbes’ Topsoil Organics has a focus on zero waste to land ll by the end of this year, a lo y goal but one the couple believes can be achieved.

The couple has a background in agriculture and soil science and is directing that knowledge towards pioneering a sustainable business model that takes excess supermarket organic produce and organic domestic bin waste to create healthy soil.

In their $4 million built-forpurpose shed, the Nicholsons are working towards turning the plastic packaging covering supermarket

waste into a reclaimable resource, using black soldier y larvae to clean that material.

The goal is to turn the larvae into protein for pet food before they pupate.

Melanie Suitor - Roads and safety

Melanie Suitor is a worthy recipient of the Senator Alex Gallacher Road Safety Award.

One of the state’s longest-serving road safety o cers with more than 22 years in the role, Ms Suitor has implemented many initiatives which have helped improve the road culture in her community.

The ‘Hey Kids Protect Your Lids’ helmet campaign, free car restraint checks, the load restraint project and mock crash are a few of

Rosie Wingrove JohnsonSculptures down the Lachlan

The foresight, passion and unrelenting drive of Forbes artist Rosie Wingrove Johnston during the past decade has come to fruition with the o cial opening of the Sculpture Down the Lachlan in October. Rosie’s visit to Sculpture by the Sea at Bondi many years ago set in motion a wonderful series of events that have now realised her dream of an inland version of this iconic installation with the nal work ‘Brumbies Run’ by Brett Garling, set in place among the Lachlan’s river gums.

The complete trail features 25 works over 100km from Forbes to Condobolin and has already been attracting visitors who enjoy the sometimes quirky works. While Rosie initiated this remarkable project, the support of the Forbes Art Society and the featured artists was invaluable.

Readers please note, the rst of our recipients were honoured in our February 6 edition, which you can nd online at forbesadvocate.com.au More to come.

Bliss, Yoorana Gunya CEO.

Eugowra’s hard-working volunteers recognised

EUGOWRA’S ood recovery committee, show society and museum were among those recognised in NSW Parliament in the past year.

MP Philip Donato has hosted the fourth annual Orange electorate Community Recognition Awards event at the Australian National Field Days Function Centre, presenting certi cates acknowledging individuals and organisations who have contributed to their community or who have achieved remarkable personal or professional accomplishments.

“For me, recognising people from our community and celebrating their work, e ort and accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of my job as the local Member of Parliament,” Mr Donato said.

“We should all be proud of these people’s e orts, because their motivation and their values are what help to make our region bloom and such a great place to live.”

Eugowra recipients were:

Jodie Greenhalgh - Eugowra Harness Racing Club

The Canola Cup racing day is the signature event of the Eugowra Harness Racing Club and this year long-serving club secretary Jodie Greenhalgh was presented with a Harness Racing Australia Lifetime Achievement award for meritorious service on Canola Cup day.

While it didn’t deliver much run, his property did have 31mm in storms last week.

Cool weekend follows stormy weather

Forbes residents have been digging out socks and jumpers a er a cool change brought morning temperatures as low as 6.1 degrees.

It’s hardly been a recordbreaking summer - Forbes airport has only recorded two days with a top temperature over 40 degrees so far in 2025.

A timely honour considering the countless hours she has spent helping develop the day into a major date in western harness racing.

Jodie joined the Eugowra Harness Racing Club as a 17-year-old and is now recognised as the driving force behind its two meetings each year.

The almost two decades of experience she has gained were put to the test when Eugowra and nearby Forbes were heavily impacted by the November 2022 ood event.

While Eugowra township was almost wiped o the map, its harness racing track was spared yet Forbes’ facility was not as fortunate.

Jodie set about working with the Forbes club to ensure its meetings could be run out of Eugowra, despite her own family losing almost everything.

Eugowra ood recovery committee

Eugowra Flood Recovery Committee was named Central West and then NSW Volunteer Team of the Year.

This committee does an enor-

mous job for its community a er the devastation of the 2022 oods, which almost wiped Eugowra o the map.

The Flood Recovery Committee helped guide Eugowra’s recovery, working with Cabonne Council, the NSW Reconstruction Authority and other services to deliver support to the o en-traumatised residents of the small township.

Almost immediately a er what has been described as an ‘inland tsunami’ surged through Eugowra, the committee members started working towards connecting those who lost everything with those that could help.

Committee members Sean Haynes, Liz Mitchell, Kim Storey, Dave Herbert, Janet Moxey, Ash Wright and Tim Wright continue to work hard for their fellow Eugowra residents who still battle the ood’s a er-e ects.

Eugowra Show represented by Janet Moxey

Eugowra Show Society was awarded the AgShows NSW 2023 Resilience Award and Mr Donato acknowledged he would be surprised if anyone came close to the Eugowra Show Society in the judging for this award.

The foundation the Show Society provided to help pull the community back together a er the trauma of the November 2022 ood event was critical from the outset.

It started with opening the Eugowra Showground and transforming it into a vital hub with the pa-

vilion and other facilities serving as an evacuation centre, providing shelter and accommodation.

The grounds were also used for staging for government support agencies.

Members of the Society provided a haven for ood victims and empathy for traumatised residents.

In September 2023, the 108th Eugowra Show went ahead with free entry for residents.

Its business-as-usual approach in getting the show o the ground 10 months a er the ood set a wonderful example.

As AgShows NSW stated in its award precis, ‘The Eugowra Show Society exempli es resilience and adaptation, putting community rst’.

I thank The Eugowra Show Society for its work and again congratulate them on the recognition from AgShows NSW.

Ray Agustin - Eugowra Historical Museum and Bushranger Centre Eugowra continues to pass signi cant milestones on the road to recovery from the devastating oods of November 2022.

This time it’s the volunteers involved with the Historical Museum and Bushranger Centre further illustrating the township’s resilience and sense of community.

Led by chairperson Ray Agustin, the volunteers saved the bulk of the museum’s collection, the majority of which was covered in mud during the oods.

Their e orts have earned two highly-commended gongs in the Museums and Galleries of NSW IMAGinE 2023 awards, in the category of projects with a budget of $10,000, innovation and resilience.

Following the ooding, a team of volunteers, some from out of town, and museum sta from nearby Orange and further a eld, ventured into the mud and debris, spending two weeks nding, cleaning and packing items for safe storage.

Mr Agustin was also recognised for his dedication during the ood, doing all he could to protect the museum and then coordinating its recovery, ensuring the safety of the collection and its survival.

While reopening is some way o , the museum’s future looks positive.

Murray Thomas and Jason Smith - Polocross

Murray Thomas and Jason Smith secured an Australian Masters title as members of the NSW team contesting the National Polocrosse Championships.

Played at Chinchilla in Queensland, the tournament brought together some of the nation’s top riders and the Forbes duo were well and truly in the mix, helping NSW trounce its rivals, culminating with a 36-14 win over Western Australia in the nal.

Horsemanship plays a huge part in polocrosse and training their horses to a level of endurance and speed needed for a ve-day competition is another component of their success.

But Bureau of Meteorology records show 12 days straight where the mercury climbed to over 35 degrees from January 27 and seven February nights where the temperature didn’t get below 19 degrees.

The weather broke a er a series of stormy days last week. While the Bureau’s records as of Monday only showed 7mm of rain Wednesday and a further 1.6mm over the weekend, there had been storms around Forbes and district.

The airport did record northerly winds gusting up to 46km/hr on Thursday, with those shi ing to southerly gusts of up to 50km/hr by Saturday morning.

The picturesque Bedgerabong showground received 7mm on Friday and race goers had perfect conditions for the big event on Saturday.

The temperature peaked at just 24.9 degrees and Sunday was even cooler with a top of 22.4 degrees.

But the real shock was in the mornings: a er an overnight low of 23 degrees on Friday Saturday morning dawned with a low of 12.5; Sunday 9.2 degrees and Monday 6.1 degrees.

The forecast is for a return to more typical summer conditions in the nal week of February, with daytime peaks of 32 to 24 degrees from Friday into the weekend.

Morning lows are on the increase as well with 15 degrees predicted Friday and 19 degrees Sunday.

www.hghmotorgroup.com.au/specials

(2022)

6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Death In Paradise. 1.30 Optics. 2.00 Mozart: Rise Of A Genius. 2.55 Extraordinary Escapes. 3.45 The Role Of A Lifetime. 4.30 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. 5.30 Landline. 6.00 Australian Story. 6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Death In Paradise. 8.30 Vera. 10.05 The Newsreader. 10.55 Unforgotten. 11.45 Rage.

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. Silver Slipper Stakes Day and Caulfield Blue Diamond. 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. 2.15 ER. 3.00 Doctor

3.45 Penn & Teller: Fool

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) 8.45 Ab Fab. 10.15 ER. 11.00 Not Going Out. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Silver Slipper Stakes Day and Caulfield Blue Diamond. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Sydney Weekender. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 1. Sydney 500. Day 1. Pre-race and race. 9.15 MOVIE: The Bourne Ultimatum. (2007) Matt Damon, Julia Stiles, David Strathairn. 11.35 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 National Drag Racing C’ship. Top Doorslammer. 4.00 Counting Cars. 4.30 Supercars C’ship. Sydney 500. Qualifying and support races. 6.30 Supercars C’ship. Sydney 500. Pre-race and race. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 MOVIE: Taken 3. (2014) 9.45 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 10.45 Late Programs.

Kids’ Programs. 5.10

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. Return. 9.00 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.40 Speechless. 10.00 Officially Amazing Goes Bunkers. 10.30 Dragon Ball Super. 10.55 Late Programs.

6.00 Today. 9.00

11.30 9News

The 13th

12.00

(2022) 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 WIN News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 David Attenborough’s Mammals. 8.40 MOVIE: The Hitman’s Bodyguard. (2017) Ryan Reynolds, Samuel L Jackson, Gary Oldman. 11.05 MOVIE: No Sudden Move. (2021) 1.00 Getaway. 1.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00

6.00 Morning Programs. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 My Way. 1.00 Let’s Eat With George. 1.30 Your Next Cruise. 2.10 MOVIE: City Slickers. (1991) 4.30 Explore TV. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Space Invaders. 8.30 MOVIE: A Star Is Born. (2018) Lady Gaga, Bradley Cooper, Sam Elliott. 11.15 My Life As A Rolling Stone. 12.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Get Clever. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 The Goldbergs. 11.30 Dream Home. 1.10 Holey Moley Australia. 2.45 Britain’s Got Talent. 4.50 Jabba’s Movies. 5.20 MOVIE: Blue Crush. (2002) 7.30 MOVIE: Back To The Future Part II. (1989) 9.45 MOVIE: Basic Instinct. (1992) 12.25 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 12.30 Farm To Fork. 1.00 10 Minute Kitchen. Return. 1.30 Frugal Foodie. 2.00

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 MOVIE: The Man Who Loved Redheads. (1955) 4.00 MOVIE: Birdman Of Alcatraz. (1962) 7.00 Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. Round 2. ACT Brumbies v Western Force. 9.30 Super Rugby Pacific Post-Match. 9.45 MOVIE: Operation Finale. (2018) 12.15 Late Programs.

Programs. 2.05

Escape To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 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. 1.00 Hook, Line And Sinker. 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 Hustle & Tow. 6.00 Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: Die Hard 2. (1990) 11.00 MOVIE: Mercury Rising. (1998) 1.20 Late Programs. 6.00 Hello SA. 6.30 A Current Affair. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Surfing Australia TV. 10.30 For The Love Of Pets. 11.30 World’s Greatest Myths And Mysteries. 12.40 To Be Advised. 1.40 Space Invaders. 2.40 MOVIE: Me Before You. (2016) 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. 9.00 Turning Point. 9.30 TV Shop. 10.00 Getaway. 10.40 Skippy. 11.10 Edgar Wallace Mysteries. 12.30 MOVIE: Rich And Strange. (1931) 2.15 MOVIE: The Scarlet Blade. (1963) 4.00 MOVIE: The Bridge At Remagen. (1969) 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: Rambo 3. (1988) 10.30 The Closer. 11.30 Late Programs. 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. 1.10 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.

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Having second thoughts could be a good thing, even if you’re determined to go through with your plans. You might find it worthwhile to take a fresh look at how things have been set up.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Financial matters could continue to be a problem until you’re able to straighten out some of the more pesky situations. Once this happens, the rest should be easier to unsnarl.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Family matters once again take center stage and should be dealt with competently and quickly. Again, insist that others take on their fair share of the responsibilities.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Your creative pursuits seem to be running into a roadblock. But rather than blame outside factors, look within to see if you might be holding back your efforts for some reason.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Keep your keen Cat’s Eye focused on relevant aspects of this new situation in your life. Don’t be distracted by trivial matters. You need the pertinent facts before making a decision.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) As much as you prefer doing things on your own, continue to accept help if you still need to resolve the problem that affects your project. Meanwhile, some cheerful news is about to come your way!

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) While you might begrudge the added time it will take to get your project from point A to B to C, etc., you could benefit from the facts that will emerge over this expanded time span.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Regarding your workplace suggestions, be prepared to produce the facts to counter reactions from skeptics who feel like your approach is unreasonable or even impossible.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Savvy

Sagittarians will look for work-related answers on their own rather than relying on unproved assumptions. It might take more time to do so, but the payoff is worth it.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Your aspects continue to favor family issues, with a special emphasis this week on changes in and around your home. Get everyone to suggest what they would like to see done.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) A matter you thought had been settled still might produce surprises. Best advice: Continue to gather facts to bolster your position just in case you need to produce them quickly.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) While your instincts are usually right when discerning ’twixt truth and deception, you could benefit from doing more research on the new “prospect” that you’ve been pitched.

Fashions on the Field impress

BEDGERABONG Picnic Races brings out the best of fashion and with glorious weather conditions, 2025 was guaranteed to present the judges with some tough decisions. With wonderful prizes from generous sponsors, including local businesses, there were excellent numbers in each category and you all looking stunning! Congratulations to the deserving winners.

Rhyanna Hodges, winner of the Bedgerabong Picnic Races Best Headwear Sally Martin and Troy Hodges.

◀ Chester Higgings, Bedgerabong Picnic Races Local Best Dressed Junior Under 18 and Georgia Dowell, Bedgerabong Picnic Races Local Best Dressed Junior Under 10.

◀ Rhyanna Hodges with Bedgerabong Picnic Races Best Dressed Lady (Open) Elizabeth Paterson of Gri ith.

▶ Bedgerabong Picnic Races Local Best Dressed Lady Kathryn Blackstock with Rhyanna Hodges.

Casual speeding is the biggest cause of trauma on NSW roads

PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

Entrants in the Bedgerabong Picnic Races best dressed local lady. PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

Trackside at Bedgerabong Picnic Races

Bedgerabong Picnic Races always draws the crowds and conditions for the 2025 meeting were ideal following a cool change.

With summer rains and the work of the volunteer committee, the grounds were an absolute picture with race goers enjoying the community’s hospitality.

The sun came out Saturday and race goers did too, enjoying a great day’s racing, the rural community hospitality and the evening’s entertainment with band The Alternators.

Lillian and Simone Rodgers came back to Bedgerabong for the race weekend.

Grace Quirk, Claudia Johnston and Abbey

Riley Prout ready for Fashions on the Field. day at Bedgerabong.

Georgia Knight, Samantha Noakes, Layla Healey, Ruby Hackett and Sarah Noakes

Michael Sheather, Carmen Du y, Adam Hoey, Darren Keane, Dolly Tuchel, Bec Morris, Clair Morris and Rachel Pritchard.

Share your products at Homegrown Parkes

By MARG APPLEBEE

CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE

Homegrown Parkes Expressions of Interest close on Friday, February 21.

We have been overwhelmed with applications for our March 29, Homegrown Parkes event.

As everyone kicks back into the new year, school, work etc, we have been receiving more stallholder applications.

If you have been tossing up whether to throw your towel in the ring, now is the time that the rubber hits the road.

We are pleased to welcome some new stallholders this year. Some local, some regional.

Our food vendors just about cover every type of request

for brekky, morning tea and lunch….and something to take home for afternoon tea.

We are estimating that our event will welcome approximately 2,500 – 3,000 people, based on our previous events.

This will be an opportunity for local and regional businesses who are processing, repurposing, sewing, propagating or producing fabulous local products to share their skill and products.

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

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

We will continue to place a small fee on stallholders for our October event.

We want to keep the event as accessible as possible, particularly for small stallholders.

The fee of $30 will assist with covering the costs to sustain the event.

We have switched up the program slightly, but the good news is that we still have fabulous inclusions.

All this with the intent of highlighting processes for using locally produced food and products with the aim of encouraging locals to have a go and grow in their own backyard, your cupboard or your porch and make it yourself.

We want to keep these demonstrations and workshops as short, informative and entertaining as possible, so if there

is a demonstration that you would like to see, make sure that you provide feedback after the event.

The Homegrown Parkes Committee, made up of members of Central West Lachlan Landcare, Parkes Community Arts and Parkes Shire Council contributors, are looking forward to delivering two fabulous, encouraging and inspirational events in 2025.

Applications can be found on our Homegrown Parkes page via the Central West Lachlan Landcare website.

Don’t forget that Crop Swap will be part of our next event as well!

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

Trade weight lambs lift $5 reaching $215/head at Forbes sales

CATTLE SALE

Monday, February 17

Yarding 1145 (down 86)

Number eased this sale with agents yarding 1145 head.

Quality was very mixed with both well bred and secondary cattle penned.

The usual buyers were present and competing in a better market.

Yearling steers lifted 10 to 15c with those to feed selling from 338 to 387c/kg.

Finished lines to processors sold from 330 to 360c/kg.

An improved offering of heifers saw prices lift 8 to 10c/kg for the better types.

Processors paid from 280 to 340c with those to feed receiving 255 to 320c/kg.

Heavy steers and bullocks were limited but reached 360c/ kg.

Grown heifers sold from 275 to 315c/kg.

Cows were 15c better with heavy 2 score from 255 to 281c and 3 score from 278c to 302c/kg.

The best heavy bull reached 293c/kg.

Yarding 34,900 (up 9050) Numbers lifted this sale with both and mutton showing the increase.

Lamb quality was similar to previous sales with both well

Most of the usual buyers were present and competing in a firm to dearer market where quality was once again rewarded. Trade weight lambs 22-24kg lifted $5 selling from $170 to $214/head.

Heavyweight lambs to 26kgtra heavyweights were firm to $6 better to receive from $220 to $290/head.

Carcase prices averaged from 790c to 830c/kg.

Mutton numbers lifted with

mixed quality Merinos making up the majority. Prices were $6 to $10/head dearer and more in places. Merino ewes sold from $70 to $170/head.

Crossbreds received from $73 to $155 with Dorper ewes reaching $150/head.

Merino wethers sold from $116 to $177/head.

FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVESTOCK REPORTING AGENCY

PIG SALE

Friday, February 14

A much smaller yarding today saw a lift in sow numbers and prices improved 10c to 20c p/kg. Boars also improved 5c to 10c p/ kg. There where no bacon yarded, pork was also in short supply and was firm on last sale. Suckers where also in short supply and prices lifted $10 to $15 p/head mainly on the heavier pigs.

FROM VC REID SMITH LIVESTOCK

Numbers li ed this sale with both and mutton showing the increase.

Shelley Nutley from Tumbling Downs is registered for Homegrown Parkes. EOI for Homegrown Parkes Stallholders/Food Vendors close on Friday. PHOTO: Supplied

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

4 Which ancient linear units were based on the length of the forearm (6)

7 To confuse or puzzle, is to do what (8)

8 What is a harmonious union of sounds (6)

9 Which term describes a man native to the Netherlands (8)

11 What are wigwams of Native North Americans (7)

13 What is one of the twelve disciples called (7)

15 To be of low character is to be what (7)

17 Name the mythological god of the sea (7)

20 What are hermits known as (8)

23 What, in biology, is the intercellular substance of a tissue (6)

24 Which portable shade offers protection from rain, etc (8)

25 When something confuses, it does what (6)

DOWN

1 What might we call a young girl’s sweetheart (4)

2 What is the big top known as (6)

3 Who was Eve’s gentleman friend (4)

4 Which device is used for moving heavy weights (5)

5 Name the muscle on the front of the upper arm (6)

6 How many singers are there in a trio (5)

9 Who was Australia’s second Prime Minister, Alfred ... (6)

10 What is the studio of an artist (7)

12 What, colloquially, are prison guards called (6)

14 Which word element refers to hardness or solidity (6)

E-QUATIONS 7

Letters have a number value

E-QUATIONS

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

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

16 Which compounds contain oxygen (6)

18 To rub out, is to do what (5)

19 What is a means of connection (5)

21 Name the Italian island, the scene of Napoleon’s first exile (4)

22 Snake-like fishes are known as what (4)

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

WHICH WORDS

1 HESTERNAL

(a) Irregular (b) Of different origin (c) Of yesterday

2 NAZE

(a) A headland or cape

(b) A Jewish ascetic under a vow

(c) An Indian court official

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:

Chose (5)

Concealed (3)

Crimson (3)

Enthusiast (7)

Irate (3)

Kept company (5)

Metamorphose (abb) (5)

Scolds (7)

Sound detector (5)

State Electoral Office (3)

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

By 10am Wednesday

Classifieds

Notice is given in accordance with Section 51A of the Mining Act 1992 and clauses 26 and 89K of the Mining Regulation 2016 that Mining lease application 652 (Act 1992) for Dimension Stone – a Group 2 Mineral, has been lodged with NSW Resources by Grandee Trading Co Pty Ltd, ACN 622 827 089, over an area of about 1.922 Hectares which is located approximately 25km kilometres south east of the town of Forbes in the Parish of Erasa, County of Forbes as shown on the diagram below.

Information regarding this application can be obtained from Steve Hughes Hughes Mining Services Pty Ltd, phone number 0409167607.

Information regarding landholder’s rights is available at https://regional.nsw.gov.au/landholder-access.

Forbes men’s shed would like to clear up a verbal rumour that has been circulating around.

THERE IS NO OBLIGATION FOR NEW or OLD members to fulfill any job requirements at the shed.

Enjoy a $2.00 bottomless cuppa co ee. We also play 500 cards on Wednesday’s. You’re welcome to come along. Enjoy our great shed and good company.

Forbes Garden Club AGM

Tuesday, 25th February 2025 2pm at the Men’s Shed.

Swimmers from Bedgerabong Public School and Caragabal Public School were watching the action in the swimming pool in between their races.

Small schools’ swim champions

Schools from around the region gathered in Forbes on Wednesday, February 12 to take part in the Small Schools Swimming competition.

Wanted to buy ANY pre1990 cars

Toyota Landcruisers, Volkswagens, Landrovers, Holdens, Fords, Valiants, Porsche, Commodores, old trucks etc. any condition, restored, unrestored or parts.

CASH PAID Call - 0421 313 536

HODSON, Donald John

Late of Forster Street, Forbes who passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 16, 2025 at the age of 86 years.

Dearly loved husband of Pat. Much loved father and father-in-law of Ben and Carla. Adored Pop of Ruby.

“Forever loved and dearly missed” A graveside service to celebrate Don’s life will be held at the Forbes Lawn Cemetery commencing at 10am on Monday, February 24, 2025.

Taking part in the swimming carnival were students from Quandialla Public School, Caragabal Public School, Bogan Gate Public School, Bedgerabong Public School and Eugowra Public School.

Caragabal Public School came away with a ra of champions and were named the champion school with an average score of 17.64 ahead of Quandialla Public School with an average of 16, Bedgerabong Public School with an average of 15.82, Eugowra Public School on 15 and Bogan Gate Public School with an average 7.6.

The Senior Girl Champion was Caragabal’s Emily Maslin.

The Senior Boy Champion was awarded to Eugowra’s Aiden McMahon.

The Junior Girl Champion was Elsie Noble from Eugowra Public School.

Flynn Miks from Eugowra Public School was named the Junior Boy Champion.

Zailee Brockman from Bedgerabong Public School was named the Sub Junior Girl Champion.

Quandialla’s Luke Slater was named the Sub Junior Boy Champion.

Junior and senior relays were won by Caragabal Public School.

The parent relay was won by Bedgerabong Public School, for the fourth year in a row.

The relay team swum 0.46sec outside nominated time, with the second and third placed teams no more than 1.5 secs out.

Along with being named the Senior Girl Champion, Emily Maslin also set a new record in the 11 year girls 50 metre breaststroke with her time of 57.85.

Quandialla Public School

had two students; Macey Yerbury and Kate Johnston qualify for the Lachlan Swimming Carnival which will be hosted at Condobolin.

Caragabal Public School had students qualify for the Lachlan Carnival.

Caragabal Public School’s Mia Ashton said they would like to thank Paul Faulker from Bedgerabong Public School for running the day and he did an amazing job.

Mr Faulkner said the carnival is a highlight for them and a great way to start the year.

“Catering for competitive swimmers and non-swimmers alike the day is designed for the kids to engage with students from other small communities, have some fun in and out of the water and to select a squad to

represent our small schools at the Lachlan District PSSA swimming carnival,” he said.

“I’ve been involved with this event for 35 years now and it never ceases to amaze how much good will, support and encouragement comes from our parent groups on the day.

“Many have to give up a day of work to be there but do it readily to be able to support us as teachers, to give their kids an experience and chance to compete,” Mr Faulkner said.

“Small schools are an extended family and the cheering and positive support from parents, grandparents, students and sta just brings us all closer and inspires the kids to achieve their best, try something new and maybe just discover a new talent.”

and Alex Berry came from Bogan Gate Public School to compete in the Small Schools Swimming Carnival.

Jeff leads vets golfers

Forbes veteran golfer Je Moon is proving one of the best handicap players in twin towns golf and did not disappoint last Thursday winning the weekly comp with 38 points on his well presented home course where fast yet true greens came out on top for quite a few of the 32 starters.

With only eight representatives arriving from Parkes they did have success at presentations with the ‘ever lively’ Dale Stait runner-up with 36 points on a count-back from Forbes’ Barry Shine.

Due to a ‘crook’ shoulder cutting short his round Forbes two handicap player Andrew Grierson took home the ‘burner‘ ball with the encouragement award while naturally with 20 players to selected their best six individual scores Forbes won the shield with 210 points to Parkes 185 from eight representatives.

Nearest the pins, all Forbes players. 9th A grade Alf Davies, B grade Steve Edwards, 18th A grade Bruce Chandler, B grade Franks Hanns. Ball sweep to 32 points. 36 points Barry Shine, 35 Nym Dziuba, Alf Davies, Barry Parker, 34 Niel Duncan, 33 Les Little, Alex Mackinnon, 32 Graham Newport, Bruce Chandler. All Forbes players except the ever consistent Parkes rep and scorer in Nym.

Dunkley on mark in SSAA target shoot

By TONY BRATTON

LV comp and showed they have the talents to gure prominently.

vited to play, young and old.

MEN’S GOLF

This week Forbes will host the rst of the Lachlan Valley 18hole events for 2025 with players from Grenfell, West Wyalong, Condobolin, Cowra, Parkes and Forbes to play.

Forbes players are asked to supply a ‘plate’ for morning tea.

For a change in course conditions last Thursday Grenfell players Steve Grace and John Grant took the advantage to play grass greens prior to this week’s

Last Tuesday 11 contested the 12 hole social comp where damp and slow greens tested all except president Peter Barnes who played solid without posting a double bogey for 29 points.

Two birdies, a couple of misses with pars in between had Ken Walton runner-up on 28 points from Je Moon next best with 27.

Tuesday ball toss at 8.30am, ‘comp fee’ only $3. Everyone in-

The cool morning saw the golf course calling on Saturday, with 70 players contesting an 18-hole stableford.

A Grade was won by Bradley Ashton with a score of 40, runner up Paul Kay had a score of 37.

Cooper Byrnes had a close contest for the B Grade win with 41 points; Angus Paterson from Gri th Golf Club the runner up with 40 points.

Ball sweet went to Sandy Paterson, Jonathon Cutler, Graham Newport, David, Rhodes, Brendan Hayes, Harry Callaghan, Kim Herbert, Glendon Hooper, Anthony Alley, Peter Dawson, Clayton Alley, Kailab Tyne, Robert Webb, Philip Maher, Niel Duncan, Luke Flakelar, Todd Callaghan, and David Mylecharane.

Nearest the pin went to Peter Dawson on the ninth and Kim Herbert on the 18th.

Robert Webb won the Super Pin on the third.

Croquet players enjoy cooler morning

On Saturday February 15 Aussie Croquet was played on a much cooler morning with 29 players in attendance.

Some good scores were recorded and they are as follows: 14/13 Bill Scott & Frank Donohoe def Dorelle Scott & Lyn Simmonds, Lyn Simmonds & Noel Jolli e def Geo Coles & Allan Jones, Colleen Liebich & Robin Pols def Bill Scott & Frank Donohoe: 14/12 Russell Anderson & David Williams def Unknown & Bruce Field: 14/11 Elvy Quirk & Kevin Rubie def David West & Kevin Wenning, John Browne & Neville Spry def Vince Roberts & Cheryl Toohey, David Williams & Geo Coles def Frank Donohoe & Elvy Quirk, Joan Littlejohn & Barry White def Robin Pols & Marie Spry, Colleen Liebich & Bill Scott def Kevin Wenning & Peter West, Robin Pols & Fay Picker def Cheryl Toohey & Noel Jolli e, John Browne & Ros Rennick def Barry White & Neville Spry:

There were many 14/10, 14/9 and a 14/7 score also recorded. On the day three games were won by two players namely Kevin Rubie and John Browne, Congratulations to those players. On Tuesday 18th February Golf Croquet was played with 37 players in attendance on a much

cooler morning.

Today we made welcome Ann Mackay who has come to join the Club. A huge welcome to Ann and hope she can enjoy the game and the friendship and fellowship of the Club.

We also had two very welcome visitors Sandra Roberts and Tania Roberts. Sandra hails from New Zealand and is visiting her Dad Vince Roberts. Hopeful they both enjoyed their games.

Some variations of scores recorded from 11/2, 9/4, 8/5 and many 7/6.

9/4 scores as follows: Geo Coles & Neville Spry def Rex Toole & Lyall Strudwick, John Browne & Frank Donohoe def Fay Picker & Sue Wade, Lyall Strudwick & Colleen Liebich def Graham Falconer & Marie Spry, Rex Toole & Helen Lupis def Robin Pols & Jennifer Wenning, Geo Coles & Margaret Dent def May Jones & Jennifer Wenning. 8/5 again recorded Kevin Wenning & Allan Jones def John Allegri & Sue Wade, Russell Anderson & Lyn Simmonds def Jennifer Wenning & John Farah, John Browne & Peter Mackay def Colleen Liebich & Jill Cripps, Vince & Tania Roberts def Fay Picker & Marie Spry, Graham Falconer & Sue Wade def Geo

Coles & Ray Martin, Neville Spry & John Farah def Peter Mackay & Allan Jones, Bruce Field & Sue Wade def Geo Coles & Ann Mackay, Russell Anderson (Solo) def Jill Cripps (solo) Kevin Wenning & John Allegri def Vince & Sandra Roberts, Neville Spry & Bruce Field def John Browne & Sue Wade, Elvy Quirk & Kevin Rubie def Jill Cripps & John Cole.

Three games were won on the day by Russell Anderson, Frank Donohoe, Bruce Field, Kevin Rubie, Neville Spry & Kevin Wenning. Congratulations to those players.

A reminder about Seniors week which commences on March 3. Forbes Croquet Club will again be hosting an Open Day on March 4 whereby we are inviting locals to come and try a game.

Visitors will be placed with an experienced player to get to know the ropes of the game and they will nd it a very interesting challenge as you get engaged in a game that you experience hand and eye co-ordination, gentle exercise etc and engage in a very social aspect. Morning tea will be served on the day.

Once again a very special thank you to employees of Forbes Shire Council for attention to detail in

Members are reminded the Annual General Meeting for the Forbes Sporting Shooters Association will be on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at the Forbes Sport and Rec club starting at 8pm.

Results of the Forbes SSAA sporting shooters .22 calibre rimfire rifle shoot on Sunday, February 16, 2025.

The weather was cold with a strong breeze from the south west at 20 kph and a temperature of 21 degrees.

There were 15 members at this shoot.

Results of the 100metre Rabbit target shoot: John Dunkley 117/120; Wayne Facey, 111/120; David Coleman, 108/120; Geoff Payne,108/120; John Dean, 107/120; John Gorman, 104/120; Steve Hindmarch,100/120; Norn Brook, 100/120; Mia Condon, 87/120; Anthony Bratton, 80/120; Niki Bolam, 71/120; Chris Parris, 68/120; Barbara Brook and Jane Coleman shot practice only.

75metre Mosquito target: Steve Hindmarch,116/120; David Coleman, 115/120; Mia Condon, 113/120; Wayne Facey, 112/120; Chris Parris, 110/120; John Gorman, 110/120; John Dunkley, 110/120; Norn Brook, 109/120; Anthony Bratton, 106/120; John Dean, 103/120; Niki Bolam, 103/120; Geoff Payne,100/120; Barbara Brook, 79/120 and Jane Coleman, 61/120.

50metre Blowfly target: Wayne Facey, 247/250; John Dunkley, 247/250; John Gorman, 246/250; Geoff Payne, 246/250; John Dean, 243/250; Chris Parris, 242/250; Steve Hindmarch, 239/250; Anthony Bratton, 234/250; Norn Brook, 234/250; Wayne Parsons, 227/250; David Coleman, 226/250; Niki Bolam, 226/250; Barbara Brook, 224/250; Mia Condon, 218/250 and Jane Coleman, 199/250.

25metre Fox target: Wayne Facey, 280/280; John Dunkley, 280/280; John Dean, 279/280; Niki Bolam, 279/280; John Gorman, 278/280; Steve Hindmarch, 275/280; Chris Parris, 274/280; Mia Condon, 271/280; Norn Brook, 271/280; Geoff Payne, 271/280; Wayne Parsons, 266/280; Barbara Brook, 262/280; Anthony Bratton, 263/280; Jane Coleman, 260/280 and David Coleman, 254/280.

The range officers were; Norm Brook, Niki Bolam, Anthony Bratton and Chris Parris. Scorers were: Wayne Facey, Steve Hindmarch, John Dunkley and John Dean.

The range officers were: Norm Brook, Niki Bolam, Anthony Bratton and Chris Parris. Scorers were: Wayne Facey, Steve Hindmarch, John Dunkley and John Dean.

this week.

mowing and marking our Croquet Lawns.

Also a very special thank you to the few dedicated members who come early to help set up and a thank you to all who help in any small way to pack up. Croquet is a great form of relaxation.

Contributed by Elvy Quirk

The Centre-fire rifle shoot was held after the Rim-fire shoot. There were eight members in attendance: Steve Hindmarch, Chris Parris, Geoff Payne, Pierre Dalle, Peter Sidiris, David Coleman, Norm Brook and Anthony Bratton. The temperature at the Centre-fire shoot was 29 degrees.

The range officers were: Norm Brook and David Coleman.

The next Sunday shoot will be held on Sunday, March 2, 2025 starting at 10am.

The Centre-fire rifle shoots start at 2pm after the Rim-fire shoots on Sunday.

The next Wednesday shoot will be on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 starting at 2pm. Centre fire shoots start at 2pm names in by

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

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.

The next shoot for the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting clay’s will be their Cliff Bradley Memorial D.T.L point score 25 targets, followed by a 75 target field shoot on Sunday, March 9, 2025 starting at 10am.

For all information on clay target shooting contact: Norm Brook 0458664541, Tony Bratton (02) 68523349, Ben Smith 0427524151, Doug Davis (02) 68523249 & Phil Picker (02) 68516494.

Follow Forbes Sporting Shooters on Facebook for any updates or schedule changes.

Brad Ashton, Marchus Inder, Harry Callaghan, Jayden Pendleton and Kailab Tyne on the Forbes golf course this Summer. PHOTO: Jenny Kingham

VETS GOLF

Tania, Vince and Sandra Roberts at croquet

PHOTO: Elvy Quirk

SPORT

Prized NRL trophy comes to Forbes

Just how heavy is the NRL premiership trophy?

Just ask these kids who had the chance to get up close and personal with the iconic Provan-Summons Trophy held high by Penrith Panthers after their 2024 grand nal win.

The Western NRL development ofcers hit the road this week with the trophy on the Penrith Panthers NRL Trophy Tour blitz.

They came to Forbes last Tuesday, visiting local schools before hosting an open training session down at Hughie Wilson Oval.

The message was all about trying your best, with development o cers hoping to share success stories from the region to inspire school-age children.

There are of course plenty of young Panthers fans in Forbes who were keen to have a photo with the trophy.

Our bowls Bushrangers bring home first pennants win

By TARA SHAW

The rst round of Pennants has kicked o with our Bushrangers travelling to Condobolin to play against Condo.

What a great start to the season with the Bushrangers bringing home the overall win 59 to 46.

Christian West’s team won their game 20 to 15, Mitch Andrews’ team also gained the win 26 to 17.

Unfortunately Bruce Williams’ team was unable to win their game but with only one point the di erence 1413 they certainly gave it their all.

Let’s hope the Bushrangers can continue to play at their top form when they take on Parkes Railway at Parkes next week.

Major Pairs Club championships are well underway and one game played on the weekend was certainly drew a crowd to witness a great game.

The underdogs Pat O’Neill and Mick Merritt played against Clint Hurford and Scott McKellar. Great mates on and o the greens the game was sure to be a nail biter and they did not disappoint.

Pat and Mick got o to a great start with a scoreboard showing 14-1 on 8. Clint and Scott were not rolling over yet and dug deep to get more runs on the board. Pat and Mick led 22-7 on 14, 26-9 on

17 and forged straight ahead to win the game 29-10 a er 21.

Super Saturday was held again this weekend where 16 bowlers played two games of 10 ends and scores were based on ends won over the two games.

Stephanie Hancox (visitor from Glasshouse Mountains) was paired with Wayne Burton and were the overall winners on the day winning 13 ends out of 20.

Second place winners went to a count back on margins due to a 12-all score. With the count back Denis Byrnes and Dale Scott placed second and Terry Molloy and Bobby Grant were third place winners.

Resting touchers were awarded to Wayne Burton, Stephanie Hancox, Terry Molloy and Rob Thurlow.

Wednesday bowls

A game of triples was drawn as the winner last Wednesday morning out of the six games played in comfortable conditions. With a score of 22-10 the trio of Eddie Gould, Christian West and Laurie Crouch blitzed Ray and Kerry Dunstan for skip Alf Davies over 16 ends leading 10-0 a er four to carry on their merry way except for end eight where the Dunstan’s and Alf posted a three. A third of their nal score.

It was closer for the runners-up with Don Cra having his rst outing with the

‘extended’ arm to lead for Paul Doust winning 21-19 in 20 over Tim Everest and Peter Barnes who had the early lead, 12-1 a er six. But the cra y Cra got the feel of his new found style setting the foundation for Paul to win the race home 20-17.

There is no stopping the ladies as Lesley Dunstan led like a trouper for Peter Mackay winning 21-16 over Geo Coles and Bill O’Connell in 20 who also jumped like greyhounds to lead 10-1 a er six. But that was it as the Barton St residents combined to dominate home winning 206.

Another lady in form, Ann Mackay, leading for Geo Williams winning 23-17 in 20 over Bill Scott and Lyall Strudwick having to come from 4-10 down a er eight. Is condition coming to the forefront on Wednesday mornings? Early leaders getting knocked o late. Not all games went that way. Garry James and Barry Shine won 22-14 in 20 over Sue Smith and John Gorton a er it was 7-all at the end of nine. A six on end 13 helped Sue and John to keep in the game.

In the last ladies with Bogan Gate heritage led where sports champion Cheryl Hodges and Dale Scott won 18-8 in 19 over Gail McKay and Ross Williams leading 8-1 a er eight. Inclub winners Bill O’Connell and Ray Dunstan.

Thursday bowls: Two pairs games and one triples braved the steamy a ernoon weather.

The girls Cherie Vincent and Tara Shaw drew against the most improved player Billy Cowell and Mr consistent Al Phillips.

The girls were a little slow with their start and dropping a 6 on the 5th didn’t help. On the 6th the girls started their comeback tour but it wasn’t enough to win the game going down 13-24.

Our triples games was played between Max Vincent, Terry Molloy and Wayne Burton taking on John Baass, Bobby Grant and Christan West. Big numbers on the board early for Waynes team picking up 5’s and 6’s giving them a handy lead of 11-1 on 3.

The second pairs game was played between Phil Hocking and Dale Scott against Bluie Dunning (visitor from Caloundra) and Denis Byrnes. Phil and Dale had a handy lead 9-5 on 8, 11-7 on 11 when Bluie and Denis started their comeback tour. Picking up a 5 certainly helped closing the gap and taking the lead to win overall 23-15.

Resting touchers went to Al Phillips, Cherie Vincent, Phil Hocking and Bobby Grant.

Raspberry for the wrong bias went to Denis Byrnes. Winning rink went to Billy Cowell and Al Phillips. Los-

ing Rink went to John Baass, Bobby Grant and Christian West.

Sunday bowls: With a lot of our usual Sunday bowlers representing Forbes in Condo for Pennants it was great to see 28 bowlers on the greens for Sunday social bowls.

Billy Cowell and Shayne Staines drew against Terry Murphy and Ross Williams. Billy and Shayne sitting comfortable at half time with a 10-3 lead.

Keeping Terry and Ross to only score another 3 points in the run home Billy and Shayne winning the game 22-6.

One of the crowd favourites Cli Nelson was paired with Tara Shaw to take on Ange Dwyer and Dale Hancox (visitor from Glasshouse Mountains). A slow start for Tara and Cli in the rst half going into half time trailing but 3. They refuelled and came out with avengence. Picking up a 6 and a 5 to win the game 24-11.

One of our close games was played by Trish Todd and John Cutler vs Lloyd Nelson and John Gorton.

Neck and neck all the way 4-5 on 9, 9 all on 14 when Trish and John picked up 2 on the last end to win 11-10. It was a family a air when Grub Reilly teamed with his Dad Gary Reilly to play against Jax Murphy and Alan Hilder.1 point di erence on 8 in favour of Grub and Gary.

Jax and Alan weren’t giving up and were lucky enough to pick up a 4 on the last but unfortunately Grub and Gary were victors 12-11. Paul Bray and Peter Mackay drew Noel Hocking and John Kennedy. Paul and Peter were o to a great keeping their opponents at bay only scoring 2 points at oranges.

Noel and John were able to pick up multiples in the second half but Paul and Peter showed no mercy and won the game 14-8.

Kelly Stringer leading for Mick Merritt played against Peter Greenhalgh and Al Phillips. Keeping things nice and friendly at rst 3 all on 5 when Kelly and Mick just skipped ahead before the break 8-3. Peter and Al found their groove on 11 to sprint to the nish line winning 15-13.

Tyler Murphy and Dale Scott drew Stephanie Hancox and Peter Tisdell. 3 points the di erence on 8 in favour of Tyler and Dale. 10 all on 10 and both teams winning 3 ends each of the last 6. Tyler and Dale came away with the win 16-15. Winning rink went to Tyler Murphy and Dale Scott. Second winning rink went to Cli Nelson and Tara Shaw. Losing Rink was won by Stephanie Hancox and Peter Tisdell.

Resting touchers: Shayne Staines, Billy Cowell, John Kennedy, Trish Todd.

Laisvas wins Bedgerabong Cup

By COLIN HODGES

BRAZILIAN born jockey Leandro

Ribeiro and Dubbo trainer Connie Greig combined to win the $11,000 Total Wear Solutions Bedgerabong Picnic Cup before a crowd of over 1,800 on Saturday at the beautiful racecourse west of Forbes.

On the immaculate turf track, Laisvas (Leandro Ribeiro, $2.20) tracked the leader Namarari then swept to the front before the home turn and won the 1400 metres Cup by over ve lengths from Media Chick (Zara Lewis, $5.50) and Stateswoman (Arthur Pollock, $2 favourite).

Connie Greig and Leandro Ribeiro have been dominant on the picnic circuit over recent seasons and they completed a winning double at Bedgerabong with Allande in the 1400 metres Lachlan Sands Class 1 Trophy Handicap.

Well supported with several of the 11 bookmakers, Allende ($4) from fourth wheeled around the eld and won by nearly four lengths from Ready For Li o

800 metres Roylance Tractor Replacements Class B Handicap.

Trained at Forbes by Peter Kirby, East Harlem in an exciting nish won the opening race, the 1100 metres Dunk Insurance Class 3 Trophy Handicap.

Less than a half length separated the rst four placegetters with East Harlem (Zara Lewis, $2.20 to $4) arriving in time to beat the leader Puerto Rico ($3.60 favourite), Sauce Dragon (Ashley Boyd, $6) and Individualist Leandro Ribeiro, $5.50).

(Eloise Drews, $2.30 favourite) and Yet Tobe A Cod (Zara Lewis, $7).

Parkes trainer Sharon Je ries has won the 800 metres Daniel Ball Transport-Clearview Bracelet on multiple occasions and this year it was with the well performed TAB track sprinter Obsessive Nature.

Humping the 74kg top weight, Obsessive Nature (Ashley Boyd, $2 to $1.70 favourite) came from last early to score a convincing win from the gallant warhorse Billy Bent Ear (Leandro Ribeiro, $3.60) and Real Salty (Todd Bailey, $5.50).

An all the way winner at Gil-

gandra TAB meeting the previous Saturday, Zillions (Arthur Pollock, $2.30 favourite) gave trainer Sharon Je ries a Bedgerabong double when leading throughout to beat Rebel Love (Leandro Ribeiro, $5.50) and the fast nishing Scru ’s Magic (Eloise Drews, $7.50) in the

Long time highly successful Nyngan trainer Rodney Robb won the 1100 metres Local Business Mates Maiden Plate with Hammoon Summer (Paul Zerafa, $4) which came from fourth to beat Waterpark Creek (Eloise Drews, $3.70) and Bold Bender (Leandro Ribeiro, $3.60 favourite).

The Connie Greig trained Bold Bender backed up the next day to nish third in a big eld at Dubbo TAB meeting.

Condobolin Picnics to race on Saturday and Mudgee TAB meeting on Sunday.

Bogan Gate holds Grinsted Cup in Trundle challenge

BOGAN Gate has held the Grinsted Cup in the rst challenge of the summer.

The Rabbits, into their third season defending the historic trophy, met Trundle Ducks on Forbes’ lakeside ovals on Sunday morning.

With a couple of new and returning local faces on a largely unchanged team, Bogan Gate headed out to bat rst in cool conditions.

They set a total 7/179, which was to prove too tough for Trundle to chase down.

Newcomer Luke Walmsley debuted with a valuable 30 for his team, batting as opener with Alan Umbers.

First drop batsman Miles Smith made 46 and the top score of the day went to Phil Dunford.

C Anderson took three for 30 for Trundle, those three all caught out on a busy day for the Ducks’ elders.

D Byrne took 2/28 o nine overs and Adam Hall 1/16 o nine.

Trundle headed to the centre a er lunch with a task ahead of them, Andrew Britt striking quickly to claim the wicket of opener Stu Robbins (4) caught and bowled.

Top scorer for the Ducks was T Parker, who held the ground for his team amassing 35 runs with three boundaries among them before he was caught o the bowling of Joey Tanswell.

T Umbers added 14 and Adam Hall 19 as Trundle built to a total of 107. The rst three wickets fell to Britt’s bowling, Joey Tanswell claimed two wickets and Blake Smith two. Phil Dunford and Miles Smith accounted for the rest.

Forbes now challenge Bogan Gate next Sunday.

Bogan Gate’s team is: Captain Ryan Dunford; Phil Dunford; Miles Smith; Blake Smith; Tom Caldwell; Pete Thomas; Alex Umbers; Joey Tanswell; Jake Magill; Luke Walmsley; Andrew Britt.

2025 Bedgerabong Cup winners Dean Fuller, Karen Brentnall, Brad Wilson, jockey Leandro Ribeiro, Tamara Burgess, Laisvas and strapper Frank Roberts with Nathan Clarke, President of the Bedgerabong Picnic Races Committee. PHOTO: Jenny Kingham

Luke Walmsley made 30 on debut for Bogan Gate as they held the Grinsted Cup against challengers Grenfell. PHOTO: Jenny Kingham

FORBES LITTLE ATHLETICS CELEBRATING REPRESENTATION AND SUCCESS AT THE REGIONAL CARNIVAL.

Little Athletics reps bound for State

FORBES athletes will be competing in the State championships after the club’s great weekend at our regional carnival.

Forbes Littles Athletics had 23 athletes at regional titles on a warm weekend in Dubbo, bringing home a swag of medals and placings.

Eight have quali ed for the Junior State Championships in March.

Anderson McMahon will represent in multiple events after placing first in 100m and 200m races, 1st in the long jump and second in the high jump. He also placed third in triple jump in his age group, 13s.

Manny Little was rst in the 15s high jump to qualify for State in

that event, also earning third in long jump and fourth in the 100m.

Also in the 15s, Max Ridge qualied with a second place in discus, and placed fourth in javelin.

Darcey Thomas brought home silver in the 800m hurdles to qualify for State, and was 10th in the region in the 800m in his age group 11s.

Jakalia Ware earned silver in the shot put in the 11s, as well as 11th in the region in discus.

Forbes has two State qualifiers in the 10s: Matthew Brunt bringing home silver in the discus and Madison West silver in the shot put.

Matthew also placed fourth in

the high jump and h in both 60m hurdles and long jump.

Madison was h in discus and sixth in 60m hurdles.

Our youngest State quali er is in the 9s: Ella McConnell claimed silver in the 60m hurdles at regional to earn a place at State.

The club had some great results in the 8s, who don’t go on to the next level at competition at this age.

Mac Parry won gold medals in the 70m and 100m, a silver in 200m and placed fourth in 400m.

Matilda West won a silver medal in the shot put, placed fourth in discus and eighth 70m.

Other great results from Forbes Little Athletics at regional were:

 9s

Ava Sinclair: 8th 70m; 4th 400m; 9th Long Jump

: 8th 70m; 4th 400m;

Toby Patton: 5th 400m; 5th 800m; 8th 1500m; 9th Long Jump

Cooper Marr: 5th Discus; 5th Shot Put

 11’s

Sadie Dooley: 3rd 80m Hurdles; 13th 100m; 9th High Jump; 11th Long Jump

Zola King: 3rd Shot Put; 15th 100m; 4th Discus; 10th Long Jump

Charlie Demamiel: 3rd Triple Jump; 6th 100m; 6th Discus; 13th Long Jump

Ava Marr: 4th 1100m Race Walk

Ari Hogan: 4th 100m; 7th 200m

Ash Sinclair: 5th 80m Hurdles; 10th Long Jump

200m; 10th High Jump; 11th Triple Jump

 13s

Alani Brunt: 7th 400m; 7th 800m; 4th 3000m; 11th Long Jump; 9th Triple Jump

 14’s

Beau Wheeldon: 6th 100m; 4th 200m

 15’s

Jackson Beaudin: 3rd 300m Hurdles; 4th 800m; 4th 1500m; 8th Discus; 8th Javelin; 5th Shot Put Boys Junior Relay Team - T. Patton, J. Ware, M. Brunt, A. Hogan: 5th

State qualifiers (back) Manny Little, Andy McMahon, Max Ridge (front) Ella McConnell, Maddie West, Matthew Brunt and Darcey Thomas. Absent Jakalia.