Howell-ing success
A couple of Eugowra legends announce step back a er another top trial
By MADELINE BLACKSTONE
A passion for dog trials and wanting to give back to the sport found Eugowra couple Kevin and Kay Howell organising utility and yard dog trials locally and around the state for more than 20 years.
This month they’ve hosted their last State Utility Dog Championship in Eugowra and it was a winner in every way - Kevin even claimed a second place in the open competition with his dog Roy IV.
So don’t worry, they aren’t going anywhere.
“We have been running the Utility Trial in Eugowra for about 19 years but before that we ran a Yard Dog Trial at the Eugowra Show in September every year and we’ve been doing that for about 25 years,” Kevin said.
“This was our last one that Kay and I organised but I will still be involved with the committee.”
Yes, Kevin will still continue to compete in trials and Karana Kelpie Stud will continue to breed kelpies.
At the recent utility trial in Eugowra 86 dogs from around the state including Penrith, Hawkesbury, Central Coast, Gundagai, Hay, Nyngan, Montana and locally came to Eugowra competing over three classes.
“It went on very well. The sheep were fairly testy but that’s how you like them in the competition, you don’t want them too easy because it’s not a real test.”
In the nursery class Phil Spackman with his dog Pedro placed rst followed by Ellen Vaughan with her dog Copper in second, Billie Bourke with her dog Dusty
Pre poll opens
Saturday
Local pre-polling in the Federal election opens this Saturday 26 April.
in third and Sharon Steer with her dog George.
In the novice class Nigel Brazier with his dog Sterlo took top honours.
Behind Nigel in second was Daniel Pumpa with his dog Ripper, in third was Garry White with his dog Whites Chrissy and in fourth was Nigel Brazier in fourth.
Open class saw Garry White with Whites Broke claim the win with Kevin Howell and his dog Roy IV in second, Greg Walton with his
dog Harvey in third and Garry White with his dog Whites Bindy in fourth.
“Competitors come a long way and they like our trial because we have a permanent set up and we look a er the course well.”
Taking over Kevin and Kay’s role with dog trials in Eugowra will be a committee of eight.
“They said that it has taken eight people to take our place, I thought that was a pretty good comment.” To page 2
Those needing to cast their votes ahead of election day, Saturday 3 May, can attend the Forbes Town Hall from 9am Saturday.
Forbes is now in the electorate of Parkes, which was held by The Nationals Mark Coulton.
There are 10 candidates, and The Advocate starts to feature them today on page 6 with more to come next week.
For those needing to vote early, the Town Hall polling centre is open:
Saturday 26 April: 9am to 4pm
Monday 28 April: 8.30am to 5.30pm
Tuesday 29 April: 8.30am to 5.30pm
Wednesday 30 April: 8.30am to 5.30pm
Thursday 1 May: 8.30am to 5.30pm
Election day is Saturday 3 May and you can vote at:
Forbes Town Hall: 8am to 6pm
Forbes Tennis Club: 8am to 6pm
Forbes High School: 8am to 6pm Bedgerabong Public School: 8am to 6pm
Eugowra voters are in the electorate of Calare and can vote from 8am to 6pm at Eugowra Public School.
Australian Electoral Commissioner Je Pope said those who can vote on Saturday 3 May need to do that.
“If you can’t then you can vote at one of our many early voting centres across the country,” he said.
“I encourage all voters to consider their circumstances and plan their vote.
“The bulk of our work still happens on election day, but for a variety of reasons it’s clear from past elections that more Australians are needing to access early voting options. Just over half of all voters cast an early vote, including a postal vote in 2022, and we expect that number to be similar this year.”
Kay and Kevin Howell on duty.
Nigel Brazier watches as Sterlo jumps on the backs of the sheep in the race.
PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham
Forbes Library will be o ering free oneon-one assistance every Wednesday for anyone who needs help with technology. PHOTO: Supplied
Be connected: Free one-on-one technology help sessions at library
Did you know that Forbes Library o ers free one-on-one assistance every Wednesday for anyone who needs help with technology?
Please book your place by calling Forbes Library on 6852 1463 or call in to book your place for most Wednesday mornings between 10am – 12 noon.
Don’t forget to bring along your device – laptop, mobile phone, Ipad, etc. and ensure it is fully charged.
Participants are encouraged to let library sta know what their questions are and what they would like assistance with.
Forbes Library has computers and free WiFi for you to use and you can also get help with basic computer operations.
The Library team can also help you to use free Library Apps to search the catalogue, place reservations and access thousands of e-audiobooks, ebooks, comics, movie streaming and more, on your own device using your free Central West Libraries Membership Card.
Forbes Library is a welcoming space to read, relax, study and use the computers and free WiFi.
Bookings are essential for free technology one-on-one sessions for all ages at Forbes Library.
Please call 6852 1463 to book your spot.
Top event and success at farewell trial
From page 1
Kevin Howell has been running dog trials now for around 40 years.
“Kay and I both ran a utility trial at the Orange Field Days for about 20 years and we ran a yard dog trial at the Canberra Royal Show for about the same amount of time.
“We have been doing the yard trial in Eugowra for 25 years and because I was a competitor I wanted to put a bit back into the sport and put on a trial for other competitors,” Kevin said.
Kevin has always preferred utility trials to yard
trials due to the dogs he likes to breed at Karana Kelpie Stud.
“A utility trial involves working in a big area, out in the arena.
“We have three sheep up the other end of the arena and the dog has to run out and pick those three sheep up without crossing the centre line.
“The dog brings the sheep down to the handler then puts them in the yard with the other sheep.
“We do a yard trial and dra those sheep back out into the open again.
“You work those sheep through di erent obstacles
WHAT’S ON
YOUTH WEEK GALLERY OPEN DAY
Thursday 24 April
Join us at the Forbes Town Hall for a special Youth Art Gallery Open Day, where young artists from our region will have their work showcased in a professional setting. This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the creativity and talent of our local youth. The gallery will be open from 10am to 4pm.Come along, explore the incredible artworks, and support the next generation of artists in our community.
ANZAC DAY SERVICES
Friday 25 April
Forbes RSL Sub Branch invites the community to ANZAC Day commemorations.
Marchers are asked to assemble at Club Forbes at 5.15am for a 5.20am march to the Cenotaph for the Dawn Service.
Those participating in the mid-morning march are asked to assemble in Cross Street from 10.15am for a 10.30am step o . They will proceed to the Cenotaph for commemorations to commence about 10.40am.
and you nish up putting them in a free standing pen and that’s the end of the trial.”
Kevin says it’s a very testing trial because the dog has to keep control of the sheep as the handler is only allowed to give the dog directions.
Kevin expressed a big thank you to all of the sponsors of the recent Eugowra utility trial.
“We can’t run trials without sponsors and a big thank you to the Eugowra Show Society,” he said.
“Our Show Society are behind us all the way which makes it work.”
CANOWINDRA BALLOON CHALLENGE
26 April - 4 May 2025
DIGGERS HARNESS RACING
Friday 25 April
Spacemen. It’s all happening at Spooner Oval, Forbes’ home of rugby league. Game day opens with league tag from 10.30am and under 18s scheduled for 11.30am.
NATHAN “WHIPPY” GRIGGS AT CALARIE HALL
Thursday, May 1
Check out an Aussie banter whip cracking show from a Guinness world record holder Nathan “Whippy” Griggs at his Pass the Hat gig. This event is free entry and everyone is welcome for a fun night at Calarie Hall from 7pm.
A MORNING OF MUSIC
Sunday 18 May
Enjoy the unique sounds of the pipe organ and electronic organ together as Maz Rees and Grant Barton take you on a musical journey. The Town Hall doors open at 10am for the concert to start at 10.30am. Entry is simply a donation to CanAssist Forbes.
RAISE THE WINGS DINNER
Saturday 31 May
Forbes Diggers Harness Racing returns to the Forbes Showground paceway with its traditional ANZAC Day meeting. Gates open midday and the club will host eight races including the feature Forbes Shire Council Diggers Cup and local memorial races. There will be canteen, bar and toilet facilities, free children’s entertainment and face painting, with music by A iktion. Gold coin donation on entry.
GARDEN CLUB BUS TRIP
Forbes Garden Club is planning a bus trip to Tumbling Downs Olive Grove at Bogan Gate on Thursday 15 May, leaving at 9.30 am and also visiting three gardens in Parkes.
We need 30 members and friends on the bus at a cost of $35, this includes a Devonshire tea.
A packed lunch or food can be purchased at Parkes Services Club.
We look forward to a lovely outing so please ask your friends or family to join us, we need numbers for this to go ahead.
Our Treasurer Lloyd Gerdes can be contacted at ph 68 514 494.
Canowindra’s International Balloon Challenge returns and with it two big nights of entertainment for the region. Furnace and the Fundamentals, Big Night Out, and Nathan Lamont (and one other yet to be announced) will be the festival’s entertainment on Friday, 2 May 2025. The Cabonne Community Glow is the signature event of the Canowindra International Balloon Challenge - an amazing familyfriendly spectacle and should not be missed, it will take place on 3 May 2025. Tickets available online now.
TALK TO ME BRO
Sunday 27 April
Talk2Me Bro is hosting a guys catch up at the Boys to the Bush o ce in Sherri Street from 7.30am. There will be breathwork, ice baths and connection. Register online at talk2mebrocatchups.org.au/forbes-guys and don’t forget your swimmers, warm clothes, towel, yoga mat and pillow (optional).
HOME GAME
Sunday 27 April
Forbes Magpies open their Peter McDonald Premiership season against Parkes
Little Wings is bringing their Raise the Wings fundraising dinner to Forbes and you’re invited to be part of something special. This event supports Little Wings as they provide free ight and on-ground transport to get children from regional and rural NSW to the specialist medical care they need. Tickets are $120 or $800 a table of eight, which includes a delicious three-course meal; a three-hour drinks package; entertainment; auctions and a dance oor. It’s all on at Club Forbes, tickets available now through events. humanitix.com
MEN’S TABLE ENTREE
Tuesday 3 June
This night is an introduction to The Men’s Table, an opportunity for locals to nd out how a Table works and whether you’d like to be part of it. The Men’s Table creates an environment for men to share about their lives, challenges, highs and lows, getting connected and creating community.
This “entree” will be hosted by a couple of long-standing members of other Men’s Tables, sharing their experiences from their Tables, and responding to questions, concerns and ideas. Book online now through events.humanitix.com Want
www.forbesadvocate.com.au
JOURNALISTS
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
Kevin and Kay Howell will be stepping back from organising the Eugowra Utility Dog Trial a er 19 years. PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
Roylances set sights on Australian title
By MADELINE BLACKSTONE
Justin Roylance has one Australian V8 Superboats Championship title to his name and he is looking to make that two this weekend.
At Temora the nals of the Australian V8 Superboats Championship will be held on Saturday, 26 April.
Justin with team Outlaw currently sit equal rst in the championship on unadjusted points and three points behind rst place on adjusted points which eliminates the lowest points scored by the team that season.
Sitting equal rst with team Outlaw is team PSP Racing driven by Ollie Silverston from New Zealand who is also mates with Justin.
At Temora Ollie will be navigated by Justin’s daughter, Macey Roylance.
When the Forbes Advocate spoke to Justin before the nals they were in the shed prepping before the big weekend.
“We are actually just in the shed prepping for this now, we’ll head over to Temora on Friday and set up and get into racing on Saturday so it’ll be from about 10am through to about 8.30pm which will be a good family event,” Justin said.
Ahead of the nals Justin said it is the end of a very long season.
“We’ve had a challenging year between racing in the Australian season and the World Series in New Zealand.
“We obviously had a big accident over there (New Zealand) and had to rebuild a whole new boat and the boat only just got back in time to go and compete at Keith in South Australia.
“We got second place there and we’re hoping to do better than that at nals in Temora.”
Over the course of the championship there has been a couple things that hasn’t gone team Outlaw’s way but Justin says that racing and they are very lucky to have such a fantastic team and sponsors behind them.
“Without them we couldn’t do it,” he said.
Before the nal race Justin said he is feeling pretty exhausted.
“It’s been a big year so it will sort of be a relief when it nishes although our new season starts 30 days later.
“Obviously very happy about where we are and we have put in a lot of work to get to this point.”
In 2021 Justin claimed the Aus-
tralian title saying it was pretty cool as they worked really hard for it.
“We nally got our ducks in a row and like everything, racing you can be prepared all you like but you still need that little bit of luck so we take it pretty seriously.”
The team does a lot of mainte-
nance and preparation during and a er events working hard to make sure everything is right especially on the day of racing.
“Heaps can go wrong very quickly if you’re not prepared.
A er placing third in the world series this year Justin is looking to reach that top step this weekend in Temora.
“We’re gearing up this week and we should be prepared and ready to go for Saturday morning,” Justin said. Tracy Little will be Justin’s navigator at Temora a er Justin’s daughter Eliza Roylance was in the seat last round at Keith.
Mural artists take up their brushes for Eugowra
By MADELINE BLACKSTONE
Mural artists have once again gathered in Eugowra to give their time to tell the town’s stories through public art.
Artists from Labrador in the Gold Coast, Rochester in Victoria, Londonderry in Sydney, Canberra and Nowra made their way to Eugowra to help restore two beloved murals.
With the weekend usually taking place in May the committee thought they would move the event forward to April to try and score some beautiful weather and that they did.
“We were blessed with better weather this year so that was a bonus and half the reason why we brought it forward,” committee member Jodie Greenhalgh said.
“Artists had to deal with the paint being a bit different with hotter conditions they are not used to but we finished two mu-
rals.”
The bushfire mural and the NSW Farmers mural were redone over the course of the weekend.
The bushfire mural was first painted in 2015 as a tribute to Eu-
RFS, depicting local Fire
Theo Wykamp along with countless volunteers saving Eugowra from the big fire in 2001.
“We wanted to brighten that one back up again,” Jodie said.
“We’ve redone a few of them either because they were damaged by the flood or their paint has faded a lot.”
The bushfire mural was half covered by floodwater causing a two-tone difference to the paint and the mural had a bit of structural damage due to a shipping container hitting the side of it.
“It now looks nice and bright again,” Jodie said.
The NSW Farmers mural illustrates how farmers are helped to grow the best by support of NSW Farmers and the history to modern times of food and fibre production in the Eugowra district.
“The NSW Farmer mural was really bent up,” Jodie said.
“It was in one of the major parts where the flood was really bad. It had to be panel beaten straight and because some panels were bolted on they were stripped out during the flood so it tore the painting away.”
The mural was finished and is now waiting on the frame for it to go back up.
As well as fixing murals the View Club held markets in Pioneer Park along the creek.
“This year we were lucky to have the markets back along the creek and it was nice to see a lot of people in town which helps our local businesses out as well,” Jodie said.
Next year the committee is planning to create a new mural capturing the 2022 floods.
“It’s a pretty big job to do a whole new mural so we really need to concentrate on getting the murals that were damaged from the flood in 2022 and get them all back up again.”
Overall the weekend was a lovely one and the good weather has encouraged the committee to consider holding the annual Eugowra Murals Weekend during a similar time next year.
gowra
Captain
Justin Roylance and his daughter Eliza Roylance navigating in Keith South Australia. PHOTO: Supplied
Making a difference key for Allwright Bourke
A continuing passion for providing high quality legal services in the local area has found Allwright Bourke Lawyers and Conveyancing recognised as a nalist in the Business NSW Excellence in Small Business award in the western region.
Allwright Bourke was founded in 2014 by Steph Allwright and is celebrating its 11th year in business this April.
What began with a single o ce in Parkes has since expanded to include permanent o ces in Forbes, Dubbo and Tumut and with it an experienced and growing competent team.
Steph said the business has grown organically in response to a real need for high quality legal services in rural and regional areas.
“People were having to travel out of town for legal advice,” Steph said.
Steph saw a solution and that was to provide high quality legal advice locally.
Jess Bourke is now Steph’s business partner and the rm now o ers legal services in conveyancing, wills, estate planning and family law and is not only known for its professionalism but for its strong ties to the local community.
“At the core of what we do is a genuine love for living and working rurally,” Steph said.
“It’s not just about delivering profes-
sional services, it’s about being part of the community.”
The rm supports a wide range of the community including sporting clubs and not-for-pro t organisations and is proud to give back to the communities that have supported their growth.
The Business NSW Excellence in Small Business award acknowledges a businesses growth, it’s ability to achieve business success and it’s resilience.
“It makes us very proud to see our hard work recognised, it’s a beautiful thing to know the community values what we do and our business is seen as an industry leader in regional NSW,” Steph said.
As the rm enters it’s second decade, Steph says the business will remain focused on delivering personalised legal services with a local touch.
“This nomination gives us the condence that what we’re doing is not only working, it’s making a di erence,” Steph added.
Allwright Bourke is one of three Forbes nalists for the western region business awards, which are to be celebrated at a gala dinner on on Friday 16 May 2025 in Dubbo.
Last week we shared the story of Henley’s Rustics, our other nalist is Topsoil Organics.
Pedestrian path on Bates Bridge closed for repair
The pedestrian access over Bates Bridge will be closed for about two weeks from next Wednesday for repair.
Forbes Shire Council has advised, through social media, that the bridge over Lake Forbes will be closed to pedestrians from Wednesday 30 April to allow the handrail to be replaced.
It’s expected the works will take up to two weeks.
The handrail was extensively damaged in the flood events of November
2022 and the council has put temporary fencing up in recent months.
Forbes Shire Council also says works will commence at Johnny Woods Crossing in early May, but pedestrian access on the Western side of the lake will remain open.
These repairs are funded under the NSW Natural Disaster Essential Public Asset Restoration Program (flood damage). The council has extended thanks for understanding and cooperation.
• Dawn Service March at 5:20am from Club Forbes, Templar Street to Cenotaph, Harold Street
• Dawn Service at 5:30am at Cenotaph
• Mid-morning March at 10.30am from Cross Street to Cenotaph • ANZAC Day Commemoration at 10:40am in Victoria Park, Harold Street
• Lowering of flags at 5:00pm at Cenotaph Bulky Waste Clean-Up 2025 The annual Bulky Waste Clean-Up will be held Monday 5 May –Friday 9 May 2025. Place your bulky waste items on the kerb on the weekend of the 3 – 4 May. Your waste may be collected at any stage throughout the week and may not be collected in-line with your normal bin service, so please remember to plan ahead. There are four categories of waste eligible for collection including scrap metal and white-goods, garden organics, e-waste, and general bulky waste. Keep an eye on Council’s social media page and iRecycle App for more information.
Minister confirms five buybacks offered
The Resilient Homes Program has now o ered ve home buybacks and completed 125 home assessments across oodimpacted Central West communities.
The Minister for Recovery Janelle Safn joined Member for Orange Phil Donato and Reconstruction Authority CEO Mal Lanyon in Eugowra on 15 April to provide an update on the $40 million program.
The assessments, by an independent ood resilience expert, give advice to homeowners on how to make their properties more resilient to ooding.
Since applications for the Resilient Homes Program opened on 28 October, the Reconstruction Authority has received 200 applications.
More assessments are scheduled in the immediate future, Minister Sa n con rmed. “We want to make sure that
Expression of Interest: Lease Opportunity - Forbes Visitor Information Centre, Café/Restaurant
Operator
Council is seeking proposals from suitably qualified and experienced operators to lease the Forbes Visitor Information Centre Café/ Restaurant (the former Lachlan Vintage Village). With frontage to the Newell Highway at the southern entrance to Forbes, the café/ restaurant has an established local customer base plus a steady stream of travellers calling into the Visitor Information Centre.
Council is seeking a long-term lease (3+ years) with competitive terms. The Information Pack containing essential information and the EOI response form is available on Council’s website at Tenders and Expressions of Interest or call Kath Garland on (02) 6850 2300.
EOI closes 6 May 2025
Expression of Interest – Short-Term Licence over Forbes Rifle Range
Council is seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) for a short-term licence agreement over the Forbes Rifle Range, being Crown Land described as Lots 1710–1711 DP 728830, Lot 3 DP 750158 and Lot 1356 DP 750158, located off Rifle Range Road.
The site is approximately 181,724 sqm (around 18.1 hectares) and does not have access to electricity or water.
EOI proposals are to be submitted using the EOI form available on the Tenders and Expressions of Interest page on Council’s website. Completed forms, addressed to the General Manager, must be received by COB Friday 9 May 2025.
For further information, please contact Council’s Manager Corporate Business on (02) 6850 2300 (Option 4).
the homeowners in the Central West who face the greatest ood risk get the support and information they need to make the right decisions for them about their future,” she said.
“I’m committed to working with councils, local leaders and communities across the region. I am here to listen, and I want to make sure that the programs we are delivering here are tailored to the needs of the Central West and informed by the community’s on-the-ground expertise and experience.”
It’s now two-and-a-half years since the devastating 2022 oods.
Ms Sa n, Mr Donato and Mr Lanyon met with impacted residents, businesses and community leaders while in town, to hear their perspectives on the recovery process and resilience measures.
“The ood recovery process and de-
livery of the Reconstruction Authority’s Resilient Homes Program are continuing steadily, and with certainty,” Mr Donato said.
Mr Lanyon encourages anyone who may be eligible for the Resilient Homes Package and hasn’t applied, to call the Reconstruction Authority Concierge Team. The Resilient Homes package is available to ood-a ected residents of Cabonne, Forbes, Parkes and Lachlan shires.
Households needing assistance to understand their options and consider next steps can contact the program’s concierge service. You can call 1800 844 085 or can make an appointment with a member of the Concierge Service team by calling 1800 844 085 or email resilienthomesprogram@reconstruction.nsw.gov.au
EOI Frost and Fire: Food and Beverage Vendors
Council is seeking Expressions of Interest from community groups, food vendors and interested organisations for food and beverage vendors for this year’s Frost and Fire Event, 4-10pm Saturday 21st June 2025 at Forbes Ski Dam.
Expressions of Interest are now open for the provision of:
• Bar services;
• Food and beverage services; and
• Pre-order food and beverage services
Organisations must be willing to obtain relevant licensing and insurance requirements as outlined in the expression of interest. Vendors must submit their EOI before Wednesday 30 April for consideration. For the Expression of Interest Form or more information, please contact Council’s Event Manager by email community@forbes.nsw.gov.au or visit www.amazingforbesnsw. com/frost-and-fire/ Frost and Fire Sponsorship Opportunities
Forbes is once again hosting our iconic Tourism Event, Frost and Fire on Saturday 21 June 2025. Taking place on the longest night of the year, Frost and Fire is an unforgettable outdoor celebration of the Winter Solstice. The night includes an electrifying mix of live Australian music, cultural performances, hearty winter treats from a range of food trucks, boutique brews by cozy fire buckets and a night sky scattered with stars. Attracting close to 3000 spectators, Frost and Fire has delivered a range of internationally renowned Australian artists such as Sneaky Sound System, Thirsty Merc and Vera Blue to the Central West. There are several new sponsorship opportunities now available including naming rights. We are currently seeking Gold, Silver and Bronze sponsors.
To find out more about sponsorship opportunities, please visit the Amazing Forbes website or contact Council’s Community Relations Officer, Sarah Savage on community@forbes.nsw.gov.au
PHOTO: Supplied
Lest we forget
Forbes RSL Sub Branch invites our community to gather to honour our service men and women this ANZAC Day, Friday 25 April.
Dawn service
Commemorations commence with the Dawn Service, with those wishing to march to the Cenotaph to assemble in front of Club Forbes at 5.15am for a 5.20am march to the Cenotaph where the Dawn Service will take place about 5.30am.
ANZAC Day march
Marchers for the mid-morning march are asked to assemble in Cross Street from 10.15am for a 10.30am step-o .
The ag party will lead the march, followed by our schools and preschools; St Johns First Aid Service; Forbes Town Band; vintage cars; returned service men and women and their relatives; NSW Ambulance; Rural Fire Service; State Emergency Service members.
at the Cenotaph will start with the wreathlaying at 10.40am.
Club Forbes is open for breakfast and lunch, with two-up from 2pm.
Harness racing
Harness racing returns to the Showground paceway, with gates to open midday with free entry. Full story on the back page.
In Eugowra Commemorations are:
Dawn service at 5.45am at Memorial Park Cenotaph 10.45am March from the corner of North and Board Street to the Cenotaph at Memorial Park for an 11am service.
Bogan Gate
Dawn service at 6am at the Bogan Gate Memorial Hall with guest speakers Cr George Pratt and CMDR Christopher Mills, Royal Australian Navy, and the Trundle Troop 6th
Jones just 19 when he enlisted for WWI
On Friday 25 April we honour the men and women who served our country through all con icts, and in this edition we feature some of our locals, and local connections, with more on
Albury Fullerton Jones was just 19 years old when he embarked for service in World War I, he was not to come
The Forbes legal clerk enlisted for service on 5 October 1917, and set sail with the 2nd Battalion, 26th Reinforcement on 19 December that same year.
With Private Jones’ photograph and service record, Forbes Museum holds a beautiful letter signed by the children of St John’s Church of England Sunday School.
It reads,
“On the eve of your departure to enter the great world-wide struggle of right against might, we the children of St John’s Church of England Sunday at Forbes desire to express our appreciation of your e orts on our behalf ...
“We realise you will constantly exposed to many dangers, but trust you may be spared to return safely at no very distant date.
“Like many others, we anxiously await the glad news proclaiming peace; and hope that when it is ultimately attained it will be de nite and lasting.
“Heartily wishing you God-speed on your perilous undertaking.”
Albury was the son of Sydney and Emily Jones, the younger brother of Bill, and attended Forbes Public School as a child.
Alice Sharp was honoured for 50 years service with Red Cross, including service as a voluntary aid in World War II.
Alice’s service in war, to the Red Cross
Alice Sharp was honoured for decades of service to the Red Cross, and particularly as a voluntary aid through World War II.
Mrs Sharp was awarded the Commandant in Chief’s Card for distinguished service during the war years.
She was invited to attend a parade of VA Detachments in the grounds of Government House in October 1946, to be presented with the award by His Excellency The Governor Lieutenant Colonel S G Nelson.
The primary role of a Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD) member was that of nursing orderly in hospitals, carrying out menial but essential tasks, The Australian War Memorial explains.
At the start of the First World War, Australian VADs were restricted from traveling overseas by the Defence Council and many chose to travel and serve with British detachments.
This policy was changed in 1916 a er a request from Great Britain, and the rst detachment of 30 o cial Australian VADs to serve overseas le Australia in September 1916.
In World War II VADs were given more medical training, but they were not fully quali ed nurses.
They worked in convalescent hospitals, on hospital ships and the blood bank as well as on the home front.
Some 1500 VADs gathered in Sydney for the parade and presentation, followed by a concert and reunion.
Mrs Sharp served as Commandant of the Forbes Voluntary Aid Detachment, and was in 1966 recognised for 50 years service to the Red Cross.
“By direction of the National Council I write to express the thanks of the Society for the splendid service you have given in its name during the last 50 years,” a letter from then Chairman Geo rey Newman-Morris said.
“I congratulate you on being one of those devoted people whose untiring e orts have made the name and emblem of the Red Cross so widely respected in our community, and its humanitarian principles so well understood.”
Private Jones passed away from illness in Sutton Veny Military Hospital in Wiltshire, England, on 26 March 1918 and is laid to rest there.
Albury Fullerton Jones and (inset) the letter so beautifully written from Forbes.
PHOTOS: Forbes Museum collection
Ten in contest for Parkes electorate
On Saturday 3 May, Forbes votes in the vast electorate of Parkes - a change of representation since the last election.
The Parkes electorate candidates for 2025 in ballot paper order are:
Mark Carter (Pauline Hanson’s One
Nation).
Stephen Pope (Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party).
Trish Frail (The Greens).
Petrus Van Der Steen (Trumpet of Patriots).
Bob Wilson (Indigenous - Aboriginal Party of Australia).
Nathan Fell (labor).
Jamie Cha ey (The Nationals).
Maurice Davey (Family First).
Stuart Howe (Independent).
Sally Edwards (Libertarian).
The Forbes Advocate has reached out to each candidate o ering them editorial space to introduce themselves and outline their key policies. The rst of these pro les appear on this page today, with more to come.
Bob Wilson: Indigenous - Aboriginal Party of Australia
I was born in 1955 in Wilcannia on the Darling River in NSW. I was the rst born of 10 Wilson kids.
My dear old Mum and Dad raised us kids under the gum trees on that river.
My Dad is from the Dunghutti tribe from the east coast NSW and Mum was from the Barkindji tribe, and we originated from the Lake Mungo tribe.
The following are some Indige nous - Aboriginal Party of Australia policies in relation to the Parkes electorate.
Energy: The IAPA is totally opposed to nuclear power or the storage of nuclear waste anywhere on the continent. We are also opposed to the acquisition of nuclear submarines.
The IAPA is very supportive of renewable energy and ambitious targets for the reduction of greenhouse gases.
Inadequate infrastructure: It is obvious to the Indigenous - Aboriginal Party of Australia (IAPA) that the Electorate of Parkes has been taken for granted and neglected for decades.
We fail to see how the voter’s loyalty to one political party has been rewarded in any way. We are not proud that Parkes has the highest infant mortality rate in the State, comparable to, or worse than some third world countries, or that safety
Brie y tell us about yourself and your background.
and education is compromised by a totally inadequate telecommunications network.
Youth crime: The IAPA agrees that no one wants violent crime to occur and reducing its occurrence is a goal all Parkes residents share. However, young Aboriginal people are already unfairly overrepresented in the criminal justice system due to disadvantage which is no fault of theirs.
Well-resourced programs of prevention would both protect victims of crime, and also save the lives of young o enders at a cost far less than simply punishing crimes a er they have occurred.
Increased sentences do not have a deterrent e ect on the young traumatised minds of most juvenile o enders.
The IAPA also believes that local Indigenous communities already
have the answers to youth crime through empowering parents to care better for their own children. Safe housing is a fundamental human right and we call on the government to ensure housing equity and prioritisation for vulnerable groups, particularly Aboriginal people.
We need a focus on community led solutions; listen to those most a ected by the crisis and understand one solution doesn’t suit all in regional and remote towns especially. The government has the opportunity to make lasting changes to address the housing crisis.
Any new housing plans should involve the training of community members to carry out maintenance on the housing. This would improve the pride and skills of the people but also mean repairs are carried out quicker and more cheaply.
Cost of Living Relief: - Immediate increase in the level of unemployment bene ts especially for remote areas where the cost of living is so high. (This is just a stop gap measure - employment is the real solution.)
- Heavily subsidized photovoltaics and battery storage for remote areas, especially on public housing, to reduce electricity bills.
- Further reduction is fuel excise for remote areas where people are forced to travel huge distances for
needs as simple as seeing a doctor. High fuel costs do not reduce consumption because remote residents have no other options.
Roads: The IAPA would like to see a revitalisation of the existing rail network to take wear and tear o roads and reduce cost of living.
Domestic Violence: The IAPA mostly sees Domestic violence in Parkes as a by-product of poverty and the stress caused by poverty. So as well as adequate services the IAPA would like to see an increase in employment and recreational opportunities in remote areas.
Water security : The IAPA would like to see the encouragement and subsidy of drinking water tanks, grey water systems and other water saving measures.
Connectivity: The IAPA is concerned about the over-reliance on satellite technology for telecommunications because of the risk of total blackout if satellites malfunction. The IAPA would like to see land based systems still well maintained.
Health: The IAPA would like to see innovative solutions to attracting doctors to the regions. One used successfully elsewhere is to provide free childcare for Doctors; something which is scarce in the cities. A local community can train and retain childcare workers a lot more easily than doctors.
Mark Carter: Pauline Hanson’s One
Nation
I moved to the town of Parkes in 2001-2002 but when I wasn’t able to nd full time work I moved back to Sydney.
I returned in 2010 and have been here ever since.
I worked at Manildra until 2019, then started a transport company one month later.
I’ve put myself forward because it just felt like the right thing to do.
I was sick of politicians doing nothing for the people, only looking a er themselves and the minorities making big noises. Stop the waste from government so our in ation will drop quickly and everyone who has mortgage or loan will feel relief.
TAFE needs to be cheaper, and give incentives to nish the courses they start and penalties for those who don’t.
I thought everyone was looking for greener energy and not more toxic energy, and there are better places to put an Energy from Waste plant, not near towns or populated areas.
I am new bloke not here for myself, I’m here for the people of the electorate.
I will be a public servant, which means to serve the public for the majority.
Nathan Fell, candidate for Labor Petrus Vandersteen, Trumpet of Patriots
I’m Nathan Fell, I live in Broken Hill and have lived in the Parkes Electorate for 22 years. I’ve worked in mining for most of my adult life, starting as a labourer, then work ing as a laboratory technician, a metallurgist and now a lab man ager.
Why have you put yourself for ward as a candidate, and if elect ed, what principles would govern your representation?
I decided to run because I felt that many of the elected o cials didn’t really represent myself and the people around me. As a 30 year old, working class person living in a relatively isolated community I wanted to show that people like me do care and want to be accu rately represented in the decision making for the decisions that are going to a ect us for the next 40+ years. I would represent the people of Parkes by being open and honest. I would endeavour to consult with the community as much as pos sible, I think the people feel that they are being told what their is sues are by people that don’t know what life is like west of the moun tains. With a seat at the table in the next Labor government I will show up for the people of our electorate and make sure that their voices are heard.
What are your three key issues in Parkes and what plan do you have to make a di erence?
The three key issues that i’ve come across during my travels over the last two weeks would be: Healthcare, childcare and aged care all as one issue - i think they
Roads is a big issue - as someone who just spent 2 weeks driving on many of the roads in the electorate I can tell you that a few are really good, but most are in need of some dire help. The local councils likely need some more help from the state and federal governments. Explain how you would help create more opportunities for youth, speci cally around employment and education?
A perfect example of this came up when I was talking to a small freight company last week. We got on to the discussion how di cult it was for the owner to get new workers, he was saying that he will get people who have done the 2 day MC course but have never really driven before come and ask for work. Issues arise when they still need on the job training.
I think there should be some sort of traineeship or apprenticeship for people wanting to get into the industry. For the rst 2 years they can ride along in the vehicles, learn the loading and unloading practices, learn the maintenance and the paperwork that comes
Speci cally for the towns of Parkes and Forbes, what change would you like to see?
Forbes is in dire need of a 24 hour police station. Just yesterday, 22 April, I had someone from the area contact me about this.
I would love to see Parkes become even more of a destination in and of itself. When I was there with Minister Jenny Aitchinson for the bypass opening a lot of people were talking about how removing over 1200 daily trucks from the town will make it a much more desirable place for people to visit.
In your nal pitch, why should they vote for you?
I’ve been out in the communities, and I will continue to be out in the communities for the foreseeable future, elected or not. I’ve been trying to speak to as many every day people as I can so that I have an understanding of what they want and need from their elected representative.
Brie y tell us about yourself and your background.
Petrus Vandersteen is a professional musician with a diverse background in security and the tech industry.
Mr Vandersteen says he will bring a no-nonsense, solutions-focused approach to Parliament.
“I’m standing for the people of Parkes who feel forgotten, who want their country back, and who deserve a representative who’ll speak plainly, act boldly, and always put Australia rst,” he said.
Why have you put yourself forward as a candidate, and if elected, what principles would govern your representation as Parkes’ federal MP?I hate to be the sideline whinger, so I decided (again) to stand up for what I believe in and represent like minded souls. I stand for a practical problem solving approach, through transparency, accountability and integrity.
What are your three key issues in Parkes and what action/policy/ plan do you have to make a di erence?
1. Block with all means that toxic waste incinerator plan in Parkes, state or not. I’ll man the barricades!
2. Housing and cost of living issues. We can do a whole lot better than what’s happening now. Cap mortgages at 3%, put a moratorium on rent hikes.
3. In ation is a sign of a devaluing dollar. Bring back manufacturing and self-su ciency as a nation, and consider cheap, clean and safe thorium based nuclear power,
tried, tested and approved by a dozen of other nations. Low power prices bene t everything from families to corporations!
Earn it before we spend it. Put up a 15% excise (paid by other countries) on our mining exports like iron ore to pay for our national debt in record time.
Explain how you would help create more opportunities for youth in Parkes – speci cally around employment and education – to help diminish the need for people to leave the area?
Decentralised government, bringing back manufacturing and cheaper housing, cutting red tape and bureaucracy, stimulating entrepreneurship, cutting power prices and stimulating a positive attitude, we DO have a bright future ! In your nal pitch to the Parkes electorate, why should they vote for you?
Only vote for me if you agree with what I believe in. Because you are either going to love me or hate me, because I intend to deliver, come hell or high water, what is needed.
Diocese launches Wilcannia-Forbes Way
Catholic Education WilcanniaForbes is thrilled to announce the launch of ‘The Wilcannia-Forbes Way’ at four significant cluster conferences across the diocese in Broken Hill, Cobar, Parkes, and Deniliquin.
This milestone highlights the dedication, unity, and collective commitment of the entire Catholic Education Wilcannia-Forbes community in its shared mission to serve students and families throughout remote and rural NSW.
The conference in Parkes was held on 10-11 April with all school staff from St Laurence’s Forbes, Holy Family Parkes, St Joseph’s Condobolin, St Patrick’s Peak Hill, St John’s Trangie, St Mary’s Warren and St Augustines Narromine attending.
While the diocese encompasses 52 per cent of the state, these conferences highlight the intimate connection, relationships, and shared responsibility that binds
educators across vast distances.
This unity is driven by grounding values, understandings, and a deep commitment to inspiring horizons rich in faith, learning, and wellbeing for all students.
The foundation of these frameworks, including the Learning and Teaching Model and Wellbeing and Behaviour Response Framework, is the new Bishop’s Charter for Catholic Education.
“The Bishop’s Charter is entrusted to each of our schools, empowering them in their vital role of fulfilling the church’s mission to inspire and enrich the lives of our students through the gift of Catholic Education,” affirmed Bishop of the Diocese of Wilcannia-Forbes, Bishop Columba-Macbeth Green.
Driven by grounding values and shared accountability, ‘The Wilcannia-Forbes Way’ empowers the 18 parish schools of the diocese to meet diverse student and community needs.
It references key knowledge col-
lections while remaining flexible to each school’s unique context.
“’The Wilcannia-Forbes Way’ isn’t just a new initiative; it’s the powerful culmination of deep, evidence-based learning and the celebration of high-impact practices already flourishing within our schools,” Director of Catholic Education Mrs Paula Leadbitter said.
“This suite of documents represents our commitment to capturing and sharing the amazing, innovative approaches that make a real difference for our students and families across the diocese.
“It’s about codifying our collective wisdom and ensuring these successful strategies continue to thrive and inspire.”
Catholic Education WilcanniaForbes looks forward to nurturing ongoing collaborative work to continually celebrate and enhance the Catholic education landscape for students and families across the diocese.
of Wilcannia-Forbes),
Education Wilcannia-Forbes) and
COME AND
OUR NEW CENTRE
Smith steps into Men’s Probus presidency for new year
By NEIL GILMOUR
Forbes Probus Club AGM was held on March 28, 2025, at Club Forbes.
The results were as follows:
President Mal Smith, Senior Vice President Mick Malloy, Junior Vice President Noel Fuge, Secretary Lloyd Gerdes, Assistant Secretary Trevor Drury, Treasurer John Bruce, Public O cer John Bruce, Publicity Neil Gilmour, Speaker
Recruitment Alister Lockhart and John Bruce, Tour Director John Gorton, Welfare Alister Lockhart, Club Ambassador Barry Wright.
The retiring President Neil Gilmour thanked Alister for conducting the elections and wished the incoming committee every success.
No matter what you are studying—whether it's a Certificate III or a Doctorate—we’re here to help. Use of our Centre and services is completely free for registered students, including: Free
Academic support
Private study and exam rooms
Meeting rooms
Video conferencing
High-speed internet
Desktop and laptop workstations for use in the Centre
Social and networking events
Opening hours: Registered students can access the Centre from 5am–1am, 7 days a week.
The Centre is staffed Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm. Got questions? Contact Jacob Cass on 0409 119 933 or email jacob.cass@cucparkes.edu.au.
The Catholic Education Wilcannia-Forbes leadership team at the Parkes conference Nick Baird (Head of Learning and Teaching), Matthew Smith (Head of Corporate Services), Bishop Columba Macbeth-Green (Bishop of the Dicoese
Paula Leadbitter (Director of Catholic
Chris Kupkee (Head of Catholic Identity and Mission). PHOTO: Supplied
PICTURED LEFT: Alister Lockhart with Lloyd Gerdes, Neil Gilmour, Mal Smith, Mick Malloy and John Bruce. PHOTO: Supplied
Honour their service
Friday 26 April 2025 marks 110 years since the ANZAC landing at Gallipoli.
On this day, Forbes and the nation will stop to remember all Australians who have served in times of peace and war.
As we prepare for local commemorations, our volunteer-run Cra Shop has packed its window with tributes - well worth a visit.
Photos provided by local families tell the story of those from our community who stepped up to serve their country across the generations.
Grahame ‘Dorsey’ Uphill was one of those to share photos and stories of his family’s extensive service across World War I and World War II.
Emily Jackson, a great aunt to the life-long Forbes local, trained in a Salvation Army hospital and served as a nurse in World War I in Bombay.
Nursing was to prove a life-long calling and on Emily’s return she worked in a repatriation hospital until her retirement.
Emily’s brother Percy Jackson also enlisted for service in World War I, serving in France. He was sent home in about 1917, a er being gassed, and while he survived the war he was only to live a few years longer.
Grahame’s dad John (Jack) Uphill enlisted and served with the 7th Division.
Working in transport, Jack served in Egypt taking supplies from the wharf at Port Said. It was in World War II the Australian mainland came under direct attack for the rst time, as Japanese aircra bombed towns in north-west Australia.
Jack’s division was brought back to Australia a er 14 months and worked transporting supplies from Adelaide to Adelaide River in the Top End.
The rural location south of the city became a major base for communications, transport and storage a er the bombing of Darwin on 19 February 1942.
Jack came home to Forbes to farm a soldier settlement block at Wirrinya.
Dorsey’s mum’s family was also serving through the wars.
Cousin Ida Love was a nurse, and in World War II joined the Australian Army Nursing Service to work rst at Kapooka and then in Bougainville at the 2/1st AGH.
Lindsay Love served in Borneo and the Middle East, and Marion Love joined the AWAS to serve in Darwin.
Their rich history of service shows the sacri ce Australian families made.
From a population of fewer than ve million, the Australian War Memorial states, 416,809 men enlisted to serve in World War I.
Of those, more than 60,000 were killed and 156,000 wounded, gassed, or taken prisoner.
Almost a million Australians, both men and women, served in the Second World War, in Europe, the Mediterranean and North Africa, in south-east Asia and other parts of the Paci c.
Australians recognise 25 April as a day of national remembrance for all our service men and women.
Those who never returned
By GRAHAME UPHILL
In many places they lie, far across the sea, Men and women who gave their lives to keep this country free.
They came from every walk of life, and every occupation,
From every town and city across our mighty nation. It mattered little if they were black or white, or some shade in between, They were all Australians fighting for their country, King and Queen.
Many lie in countries far away, in Africa France and Turkey.
While some of them are laid to rest beneath the oceans murky.
Some lie in fields beneath a cross, their name engraved upon, Some lie unmarked beside a jungle track, unable to go on.
They were Australia’s sons and daughters who put up their willing hands,
To fight and die, and now they lie in the soil of foreign lands.
They said goodbye to friends and family, who were left behind to yearn Then boarded ships and sailed away, never to return.
They made the ultimate sacrifice, gave up their future years, And left their loved ones mourning, and shedding many tears.
They were cut down in the flower of youth, never to grow old, Never did they have the chance to let their lives unfold.
That’s why in April every year we have a special day,
To remember the men and women who are owed a debt we can never repay.
brought home a er being gassed, but died short years later.
RIGHT: Emily Jackson served as a nurse in Bombay in World War I.
Can’t make it on Election Day?
If you can’t vote on Saturday 3 May, you may be eligible to vote early.
All Australian citizens aged 18 years and over are required by law to vote.
So, if you can’t make it to a polling place on election day, you may be eligible to: · vote early at an early voting centre, or · apply for a postal vote.
If you’re travelling, working or will be outside the electorate where you’re enrolled on election day, you can vote early.
To check early voting options and eligibility, visit aec.gov.au/early
Your vote will help shape Australia.
To learn more aec.gov.au/early 13 23 26
6.00 Get Clever. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Larry The Wonder Pup. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 Rebel Wilson’s Pooch Perfect. 1.05 Dancing With The Stars. 3.30 The Goldbergs. 4.00 Jabba’s Movies. 4.30 Frogger. 5.30 The Amazing Race. 7.00 MOVIE: The Smurfs 2. (2013) 9.15 MOVIE: Wild Hogs. (2007) 11.15 MOVIE: Hollow Man. (2000) 1.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning
Roosters v St George Illawarra Dragons. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 8. Melbourne Storm v South Sydney Rabbitohs. 9.55 Golden Point. 10.45 MOVIE: Criminal. (2016) 12.40 Tipping Point. 1.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. 12.00 Avengers. 1.00 Antiques Roadshow. 1.30 MOVIE: Against The Wind. (1948) 3.30 MOVIE: The Thousand Plane
Late
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Harry’s Practice. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Impossible Builds. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 3.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 5.00 Horse Racing. Saturday at the Valley, Charity Race Day and SA Oaks & Sangster Day. 6.00 Dog Patrol. 6.30 Bondi Vet. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 In The Room: Leigh Sales With Lin-Manuel Miranda. 1.30 Darby And Joan. Final. 2.15 Extraordinary Escapes. 3.00 Megafauna: What Killed Australia’s Giants? Final. 3.50 A Life In Ten Pictures. 4.45 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli. 5.15 Landline. 5.40 Australian Story. 6.10 Father Brown. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Vera. Return. 9.05 Midsomer Murders. 10.35 Unforgotten. Final. 11.20 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 4.05 Grace’s Amazing Machines. 4.20 Odd Squad. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Bluey’s Big Play. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.30
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Saturday at the Valley, Charity Race Day and SA Oaks & Sangster Day. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Americas. 8.00 MOVIE: Evan Almighty. (2007) Steve Carell, Morgan Freeman. 10.00 MOVIE: No Hard Feelings. (2023) Jennifer Lawrence. 12.15 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.30 Australia ReDiscovered. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Watersport. Offshore Superboats. Replay. 4.00 Full Custom Garage. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 Aussie Salvage Squad. 8.30 Football. AFL. Round 7. GWS Giants v Western Bulldogs. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 Drive TV: Launch Pad. New. 1.00 Innovation Nation. 1.15 Surfing Australia TV. 1.45 The Pet Rescuers. 2.15 Young Sheldon. 2.45 MOVIE: Yours, Mine And Ours. (2005) 4.30 The Garden Gurus. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: Midway. (2019) 10.10 MOVIE: The Man With The Iron Heart. (2017) 12.20 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success. 12.00 Dream Academy. 12.30 Dream Home. 2.20 Holey Moley Australia. 3.20 Zumbo’s Just Desserts. 4.30 Dodger. 5.35 MOVIE: The Angry Birds Movie 2. (2019) 7.30 MOVIE: Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody. (2022) 10.35 MOVIE: Spy. (2015) 1.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Everyday Gourmet. 12.30 Australia By Design: Architecture. 1.00 10 Minute Kitchen. 1.30 What’s Up Down Under. 2.00 Food Trail: South Africa. 2.30 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 3.00 Taste Of Aust. 3.30 Farm To Fork. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 GCBC. 5.00 News. 6.30
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 My Favorite Martian. 11.00 Avengers. 12.00 MOVIE: The Captain’s Paradise. (1953) 1.55 MOVIE: Odette. (1950) 4.20 MOVIE: The Dam Busters. (1955) 7.00 Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. Round 11. ACT Brumbies v Hurricanes. 9.30 Super Rugby Pacific Post-Match. 9.45 MOVIE: Law Abiding Citizen. (2009) 11.55 Late Programs.
6.00 Hello SA. 6.30 A Current Affair. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Wide World Of Sports. 11.00 NRL Sunday Footy Show. 1.00 Fish Forever. 1.30 Drive TV: Drive Car Of The Year. 2.00 Oz Off Road TV. 3.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 8. Wests Tigers v Cronulla Sharks. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Travel Guides. 8.10 60 Minutes. 9.10 To Be Advised. 10.10 See No Evil. 11.10 The First 48. 12.00 Oz Off Road TV. 12.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 Songs Of Praise. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Australia. 2.30 Monty Don’s Paradise Garden. 3.30 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia. 4.15 The Telegram Man. 4.30 Restoration Australia. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Compass. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Vera. Final. 9.05 Vera, Farewell Pet. 9.50 MOVIE: My Brother Jack – Part 1. (2001) Matt Day. 11.25 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 4.20 Odd Squad. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 MOVIE: Thomas And Friends: The Mystery Of Lookout Mountain. (2022) 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Horrible Histories. 8.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.10 Abbott Elementary. 9.55 Speechless. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.40 Doctor Who. 3.25 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. 4.05 Would I Lie To You? 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Heartbreak High. 7.00 Spicks And Specks. Final. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Lucy Worsley Investigates. 9.00 Louis Theroux: Twilight Of The Porn Stars. 10.05 Offsiders. 10.35 The Weekly. 11.05 ER. 11.50 Late Programs.
Of Wellness. 11.00 Escape To The Country. 1.00 The Surgery Ship. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Animal SOS Australia. 3.00 Harry’s Practice. 3.30 Cities Of The Underworld. 4.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Rosemary & Thyme. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 Great Rail Restorations. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Fishing Addiction. 2.00 Fishy Business. 2.30 Al McGlashan’s Fish’n With Mates. 3.00 The Mightiest. 4.00 Deep Water Salvage. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: The Bourne Identity. (2002) 11.00 MOVIE: The Pope’s Exorcist. (2023) 1.15 Late Programs.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Someone will try to pull the wool over your eyes. Trust your inborn sense of what’s right and what’s wrong to help you avoid getting fleeced.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Love dominates the Taurean landscape this week, but someone from the past doesn’t feel so kindly to the divine Bovine. Resist an attempt to goad you into a fight.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) A perplexing on-the-job situation that you thought was resolved reopens with a new twist. But this time, you’ll have more people willing to help you deal with it.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A major move could be good for your career, but you worry that it might cause problems for your loved ones. Before making a decision, talk things over with them.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Holey Moley Australia. 11.00 Dream Home. 12.40 Zumbo’s Just Desserts. 2.00 The Goldbergs. 2.30 Home And Away. 4.30 Baking It. 5.30 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. 6.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: S.V.U. 10.30 Bones. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Jamie’s Air-Fryer Meals. 1.00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield. 1.30 Cook With Luke. 2.00 The Dog Down Under. 2.30 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures. 3.30 Expedition: Raja Ampat And Spice Islands. 4.00 All 4 Adventure. 5.00 10 News First. 6.00 The Sunday Project. 7.00 MOVIE: Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning. (2023) 10.30 FBI. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 AFL Sunday Footy Show. 12.00 My Favorite Martian. 12.30 Getaway. 1.00 Edgar Wallace Mysteries. 2.20 MOVIE: Danger Within. (1959) 4.25 MOVIE: The Wonderful Country. (1959) 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: Battle Of Britain. (1969) 11.15 The Closer. 12.15 Late Programs.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) The Big Kitty’s glitter dazzles the right people who react to your charm. But they’ll want more proof that you can do the job they’re offering.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Continue to assess both sides of a workplace situation before deciding which to support. An old friend brings potentially life-changing news. Listen well.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Your natural inclination for fairness might conflict with the special needs of a friend. Weigh both issues carefully and make your decision in your usual honest way.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21)
St Laurence’s fete, fun for all
The St Laurence’s fete was once again a huge success with principal Anthony Lucey saying it was a celebra tion of togetherness and generosity.
“A testament to the community spir it that thrives here a St Laurence’s,” Mr Lucey said.
“It was a visible witness of our shared commitment to supporting each other and working together for a common goal.
“My thanks to everyone who donat ed time, prizes, food and fun.”
From an international food stall to balloons and in atable games there was fun for the whole family.
Check out all the smiling faces our photographer captured at the fete.
Jackson Savage was all smiles having his hair colour sprayed.
Hiya, Sweta and Viva Changelc.
Logan Davey at the Coin Toss.
Poppy Hoey and Hazel Howe with their amazing balloons.
Carly Keane pins Archer Besgrove’s badge on. Bullock.
Abi, Ada and Maisie Bernardi at the Balloon Stall.
How to Vote for
JAMIE CHAFFEY
THE NATIONALS for
Parkes
THE NATIONALS
Working
Providing
House of Representatives
Ballot Paper
Electoral Division of Parkes
CARTER, Mark
POPE, Stephen
FRAIL, Trish
VAN DER STEEN, Petrus
WILSON, Bob
FELL, Nathan
CHAFFEY, Jamie THE NATIONALS
DAVEY, Maurice
HOWE, Stuart
EDWARDS, Sally
Action-packed Homegrown planned
By MARG APPLEBEE
CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE
Homegrown Parkes is this weekend!
Make sure that you bring your recycled bags for purchases, goodies for Crop Swap, cash and cards. With each workshop registration, you can go in the running to win some wonderful prizes from our local Homegrown Parkes businesses. Of course ... you need to attend the workshop on Saturday, 26 April at Cooke Park.
Chef Jack Brown will be providing a workshop from 11am. Jack is an Indigenous chef trained in traditional French cuisine.
Register for Jack’s workshop and go in the running to win a fabulous sculpture created by Glen Sloane from Sloaney’s Sculptures or some fabulous bush tucker plants.
Reserve a seat for this free event with Jack Brown via stickytickets. com.au/j5i7r/homegrown_parkes_ workshop_with_chef_jack_brown. aspx
Kath Whitchurch will be providing a workshop on Sourdough Making at 12.30pm.
Through her business Sourdough by Kath, she has been making arti-
We have ten $15 gi vouchers for Sourdough by Kath goodies for registered attendees that will be drawn at the workshop. Find out the process to create delicious, crusty sourdough with Kath.
Clancy The Bee Man will provide informal workshops on the lawn in
He will be providing two formal presentations at 10.30am and
Register for The Bee Man Workshop 1 (10.30am) at stickytickets. com.au/9a7nj/workshop_1_with_ the_bee_man__clancy_lester_at_ homegrown_parkes.aspx
Register for The Bee Man Workshop 2 (1.30pm) at stickytickets. com.au/qyrn7/workshop_2_with_ the_bee_man__clancy_lester_at_ homegrown_parkes.aspx
Please feel free to bring along your own bee hotel materials to work with Clancy, including untreated bamboo, hollow stems, kangaroo paw stems, salvia stems, PVC pipe o cuts and big tin cans. We also have a live reptile display
You can register for her workat 2.00pm, with Elizabeth Briton speaking about landscape design. Elizabeth is a talented landscape designer, sharing her knowledge of local plant species and design concepts.
Attendees have the opportunity to hear from Elizabeth and deepen our knowledge of garden design.
Andrew will have reptiles on display during the day and with two formal presentations at 11am and 1.30pm.
We also have four $50 gi vouchers from Dirty Gloves Nursery
Register for the Landscape Design workshop through stickytickets.com.au/2kfwa/garden_design_with_elizabeth_briton_at_ homegrown_parkes.aspx
For further information on this article, please go to www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org, twitter, facebook or Instagram @cwllandcare or contact Marg Applebee on 0418 611 053.
Strong prices continue for mutton showing another lift
SHEEP SALE
Tuesday, 22 April
Yarding 31,250 (up 100)
Numbers remained fairly similar this sale with agents yarding 31,250 head.
There was 23,600 lambs penned and quality was similar to that of previous sales.
There were some good lines of grain fed and finished trade and heavyweight lambs penned along with the plainer and secondary types.
The usual buyers were present and competing.
Trade weight lambs 2024kg held fairly steady to sell from $164 to $212/ head.
Heavy lambs to 26kg ranged in price from $202 to $233/head.
Extra heavyweights were $5 to $7 easier to sell from $222 to $268/head.
Carcase prices averaged from 792 to 865c/kg.
The best heavy hoggets reached $200/head. There was 7650 mutton penned and quality was very mixed.
Prices continue to be strong and showed an-
other lift.
Merino ewes sold from $105 to $205/head.
Crossbred ewes received from $95 to $217/head.
Dorper ewes reached $168/head.
Merino wethers sold from $101 to $175/head.
FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVESTOCK REPORTING AGENCY
STORE CATTLE SALE
The Forbes Store Cattle Sale will be held on Friday, 2 May at the Forbes Central West Livestock Exchange starting at 10am.
+ Central Location - prime position adjacent to the Newell Highway & Inland Rail line.
+ Well Serviced - Forbes 10km, Parkes 25km, Sydney 375km, Melbourne 700km, Brisbane 980km.
+ Green eld Site - 10.96 ha of General Industrial (E4) land ripe for commercial development.
+ Central West Industrial Park - access over 80% of Aus. population within 12 hr transport trip.
+ Forbes Livestock Exchange - close proximity to ‘state of the art’ cattle, sheep & pig sale yards.
+ Fully Serviced - reliable water, power, gas & NBN connections + dual road frontage & access.
+ Existing Infrastructure - large, renovated o ce building + 2 x enclosed open span sheds.
+ Value For Money - when compared to other established & emerging industrial precincts.
O
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
1 Which horse won the 2009 Caulfield Cup (6)
8 Which horse won the 1945 Melbourne Cup (8)
9 Name an inflammatory disease of the skin (6)
10 Which geometrical plane curve is formed by an intersection (8)
11 Name a blood-sucking African fly (6)
12 What was the Kon-Tiki (4)
13 Which term indicates 12 dozen (5)
16 What are some British noblemen called (5)
19 To expel from a place, is to do what (4)
21 Name the natives of Baghdad (6)
22 Which persons avoid traditional conventions of behaviour (8)
23 What are farewells called (6)
24 Who discovered X-rays in 1895, William ... (8)
25 How many players are there in a cricket team (6)
DOWN
2 Which tooth is adapted for cutting (7)
3 What are circular bands of flowers left at graves (7)
5 Which musical direction suggests moderately slowly and evenly (7)
6 Which mental disorder is marked by alternating periods of excitation and depression (7)
7 Name the US film director known especially for the Pink Panther films, Blake ... (7)
14 What are narcotics also known as (7)
15 Which poems have 14 lines (7)
17 Name an alternative term for insatiable greed for riches (7)
18 What is unoccupied time called (7)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
1 RAMATE (a) Difficult to control (b) Chaffy (c) Branched
2 VITIATE
E-QUATIONS
4 Who deals in textiles and cloth goods (6)
Letters
Some
13 Who collaborated with Sir Arthur Sullivan, Sir William ... (7)
E-QUATIONS
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
20 What is herbal tea known as (6)
(a) To make lifelike
(b) To use abusive language (c) To render faulty or defective
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:
Fire fighter (7)
Guardedly cautious (7)
Mix of original tracks (5)
Railway carriage (3)
Refurbishment (5)
Top student (3)
Travel costs (5)
Tree (3)
Was concerned (5)
Was seated (3)
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
Classifieds BY PHONE BY EMAIL WHEN TO BOOK
SSAA news: Perfect scores on fly target
By TONY BRATTON
Results of the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre rimfire rifle shoot on Wednesday 16 April 2025.
25metre Fly target shoot: Bruce Dent, 200/200; Lional Redfern, 200/200; Dennis Christy, 193/200; Jennie Carpenter, 188/200; Bruce Runchel, 180/200; Ervie, 154/200.
50m Crow target: Bruce Dent, 246/250; Lional Redfern, 229; Dennis Christy, 224; Ervie, 209; Bruce Runchel, 168 and Jennie Carpenter, 153; 75m Rabbit target: Ervie, 104/120; Dennis Christy, 101; Lional Redfern, 99; Bruce Dent, 96 and Bruce Runchel, 91.
100m Bear target: Bruce Dent, 106/120; Lional Redfern, 105 and Ervie, 103.
Results of the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre rimfire rifle shoot on Sunday 20 April 2025.
John Gorman, 266; Anthony Bratton, 264; John Dean, 263; Brett Hooper, 263; Steve Hindmarch, 263; Niki Bolam, 255; David Coleman, 239; Peta Bolam, 231; Mia Condon, 202 and Walter Wiyepe, 148.
The Centre-fire rifle shoot was held after the Rim-fire shoot. There were three members in attendance: Steve Hindmarch, Brett Hooper and Anthony Bratton.
The next S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre and other rimfire rifle shoot (.22 magnum or.17HMR): will be on Wednesday 30 April 2025 starting at 2pm.
The next Sunday shoot will be on 4 May 2025 starting at 10am. The Centre-fire rifle shoots start at 2pm after the Rim-fire shoots on Sunday, names in by 1.30pm.
5 May to 9 May 2025
Forbes Shire Council is providing a Kerbside Bulky Waste Clean-up for all residents currently receiving a domestic waste and recycling collection service.
Please place your waste neatly next to the edge of the kerb, not blocking the footpath, at your normal weekly bin collection point.
It is important to separate your waste into three (3) separate piles:
• Scrap Metal, White Goods and E-waste
• Bundled Organics
• General Bulky Waste
Please secure items to avoid windblown littering. Loose items must be tied securely with rope or string, into bundles or contained in sturdy boxes.
The total volume of waste presented for collection must not exceed two (2) cubic metres. Items must be able to be reasonably removed by two people.
Residents are requested to put your waste out on Sunday 4 May 2025
NOTE: Collections may occur at any time during the allotted time period, and may not be collected on the same day as your normal bin service.
ACCEPTABLE METAL & E-WASTE ITEMS INCLUDE:
• Fridges, washing machines, stoves, microwaves. Doors must be removed from all appliances and white goods.
• Metal lawn mowers, wheel barrows, empty paint tins, barbeques, pushbikes, hot water systems, metal furniture
• Televisions, monitors, towers, printers, keyboards, laptops
ACCEPTABLE ORGANIC ITEMS INCLUDE:
• Garden prunings that cannot be placed in your green lidded bin
• Tree limbs no longer than 1.8 metres & 250mm in diameter
• Untreated timber
ACCEPTABLE GENERAL BULKY ITEMS INCLUDE:
• Mattresses, oor coverings, furniture, lounges, vacuum cleaners, small appliances, batteries, bric-a-brac
UNACCEPTABLE ITEMS: These materials will NOT be collected
• Materials that exceed the maximum dimensions of 2 cubic metres
• Lengths of material longer than 1.8 metres (excluding mattresses)
• Items which cannot be reasonably removed by two people
• Trade, industrial & shop waste
• Items in plastic bags, cement bags
• Motor vehicles, engines, car parts, tyres
• Building & demolition material, concrete, bricks, tiles, fencing, plumbing xtures, panes of glass, large carpet rolls
• Hazardous waste, asbestos, bro, insulation batts, gas bottles, re extinguishers, paint, solvents, chemicals, cleaners, unwanted medicines
• Liquids of any sort, fuels, oils
• Small machinery containing fuel or oil, oil heaters
• Material suitable for placement in your mobile garbage bins, including recyclables, organics, food scraps, household garbage
• Thorny bushes, soil, stones, sawdust
The Contractor and Council have the right to reject any items that they consider unacceptable.
100m Bear target: Kris Gorman, 120/120; John Gorman, 120/120; Steve Hindmarch, 115; John Dean, 108; Niki Bolam, 105; Anthony Bratton, 104; Peta Bolam, 101; David Coleman, 97; Brett Hooper, 91; Mia Condon, 54 and Walter Wiyepe shot practice only.
All shoots are at the Bedgerebong road range, turn right off Bedgerebong road onto Dr. Young Drive.
For all information on .22 calibre rimfire shooting contact: Wayne Facey 0414524059; Norm Brook 0458664541; Ben Smith 0427524151; David Coleman 0427401263: No shoot on Mothers Day, 11 May.
and conditions negotiable. Text 0417357452 if interested. FORBES SHIRE COUNCIL – BULKY WASTE CLEAN-UP
75m Deer target: John Gorman, 120/120; Kris Gorman, 118; Brett Hooper, 114; Wayne Facey, 112; Anthony Bratton, 112; John Dean, 111; Steve Hindmarch, 111; David Coleman, 106; Peta Bolam, 106; Niki Bolam, 105 and Mia Condon, 90.
50m Blowfly target: Kris Gorman, 247/250; John Dean, 245; John Gorman, 244; Wayne Facey, 242; Steve Hindmarch, 237/250; Niki Bolam, 235; Brett Hooper, 233; Anthony Bratton, 232; David Coleman, 230; Peta Bolam, 215; Mia Condon, 209.
25m Buffalo target: Kris Gorman, 268/270;
The next shoot for the sporting clay’s will be on Sunday 25 May at 10am.
For all information on clay target shooting contact: Norm Brook 0458664541; Ben Smith 0427524151; Tony Bratton (02) 68523349; Doug Davis (02) 68523249.
Members are reminded that the by-monthly meeting for June will be at the Forbes Sport and Rec Club on Wednesday 11 June starting at 8pm.
Check Facebook and local community radio station 2LVR for any changes to the event schedule.
Celebrate World Croquet Day with local club
Aussie Croquet was played on Saturday 19 April 2025 with only a small number of 22 in attendance. The keen players always show up but others were either away for the Easter break or chose to stay home with family.
All three games were won by Fay Picker, Allan Jones and Frank Donohoe. Well done to those players.
Close scores of 14/13 were recorded by Allan Jones & Geo Coles who defeated Carolyn Neilsen & Kevine Rubie and John Farah & Fay Picker who also defeated Elvy Quirk & John Browne.
14/12 scores were recorded by May Jones & Harley Stewart def Cheryl Toohey & John Farah, Allan Jones & Cheryl Toohey def Irene Riley & Harley Stewart, Fay Picker (solo) def John Farah (Solo), 14/11 scores as follows: Frank Donohoe & Vince Roberts def Marie Spry & Kevin Wenning, , Frank Donohoe & Elvy Quirk def Geo Coles & May Jones.
14/10 scores Frank Donohoe & Fay Picker def Elvy Quirk & Carolyn Neilsen, Bill Scott (solo) def Irene Riley (solo):14/9 score was Allan Jones & Irene Riley def Marie Spry & Bill Scott: 14/8 Kevin Rubie & Neil Riley def John Browne & Vince Roberts:
World Croquet Day is being celebrated by Forbes Croquet Club on 1 May, there will be some fun games, some prizes, a light lunch will be served a er in the shade area.
Golf Croquet was played on Tuesday 22 April when we celebrated the birthdays of Robin Pols and Malcolm Smith.
These two valued members were both celebrating their 90th birthdays only two days apart. Morning tea was jointly provided by Robin and Mal who celebrated whilst a special birthday cake was organised by the Croquet Club. President Elvy conveyed very best wishes to Robin and Mal and hopefully they will have many more years of health and happiness. Elvy mentioned that Robin is the longest serving member having joined the Club in 2004 whilst Mal joined in 2012.
There were 43 players rolled up on Tuesday to play and help with the celebrations. All were eager to get on with the game.
There were ve visitors being Catriona and David Hunt ( daughter and son in law of Robin Pols) Theo Hanbury (son of Jane) David Parsons (Son in law of Kevin & Jill Rubie) Janelle Berger (daughter of Enid Baker). All three games on the day were won by John Farah, Neil Gilmour, Ray Martin, Peter Mac-
Elvy Quirk, Vince Roberts, Kevin Rubie and Bill Scott.
A special mention must go to Peter Mackay as Peter is a relatively new player. A runaway score on the day was 12/1 when Kevin Wenning defeated Belinda Facey: 10/3 scores recorded by Bill Scott& Lyall Strudwick def Sue Wade & Lyn Simmonds, Neil Riley & Bill Scott def Robin Pols & David Hunt, Allan Jones & Bill Scott def Irene Riley & Frank Donohoe: 9/4 scores recorded by John Farah & Mal Smith def May Jones & Geo Coles, Elvy Quirk & John Farah def Catriona Hunt & Jane Hanbury, David Parsons & Neil Gilmour def Allan Jones & Ann Mackay, Elvy Quirk & Kevin Rubie def Wayne Wright & Carolyn Neilsen, Rex Toole (solo) def Neil Riley (solo), John Browne & Vince Roberts def Lyn Simmonds & Belinda Facey: 8/5 scores as follows Kevin Rubie & David Parsons def Frank Donohoe & Colleen Liebich, Peter West (solo) def Russell Anderson & Ray Burridge, Neil Riley & Vince Roberts def Sally Perry & Rex Toole, Ray Martin & Marie Spry def Belindas Facey & Irene Riley, Kevin Rubie & Ray Martin def Geo Coles & Theo Hanbury, Enid Baker & Janelle Berger def Marie Spry & Mal Smith, Robin Pols & Ray Martin def Fay Picker & David Parsons. There were a number of close games with 7/6 scores as well as some 11/2 scores. Croquet is a game for young and old, age no barrier. We are looking to attract some younger players.
By ELVY QUIRK
Catriona and son in law David.
kay,
Stelling, Sommers claim carnival win
BOWLS
There was hype across the greens this weekend as Forbes Bushrangers hosted their annual Easter carnival. The weather was magical which made for great bowls to played across three days of the carnival. 72 players from Denistone, Toongabbie, Dee Why, St Johns Park, Orange, Grenfell, Cowra and of course our mighty bushranger locals gave it their best for their chance to come away with some prize money.
Playing three games of 12 ends each day and then playo s for quarter nals the top eight had a battle of some very strong competition bowls to contend with.
Our locals were lucky to have representation on Friday a ernoon in the pairs quarter nals in the form of Robert (Pooch) Dukes teaming up with former Forbes boy Jason Rath from Yass. Robert (Bert) Bayley also teamed up with Keith Smith from Toongabbie who has been attending this carnival for 40+ years. Unfortunately for Bert and Keith they were knocked out at the Quarter Finals however Pooch and Jason advanced to the SemiFinals. They played the seminal on Sunday to just miss out on the nals.
against each other on Sunday morning in the semi’s. Spro Asimus, Bozza Bolam, Scott Andrews and skip Mitch Andrews had to play Clint Hurford, Lyall Strudwick, Billy Cowell and skipper Scott McKellar.
The sidelines were full of support for both teams cheering them on and it was Scott McKellars team that just got up and played St Johns Park in the nals.
ning (Denistone) and Runners Up went to a Deewhy/ Toongabbie mixed team Bruce Johns, Keith Smith and Peter Strong.
The club was full, the greens were full and it was a great weekend had by all. It was great to see all of our returning and new visitors for our tournament and are already planning next years.
LOCAL COMPETITION GAMES
Our Fours competitions were played on Saturday, three games like the previous day and then quarter nals. There was de nitely something in the water for our Bushrangers who had two teams win their quarter nals to advance to the semi’s. They had to play o
Overall winners were Brian Stelling and Paul Sommers from Deewhy who won the Pairs Finals against Terry Thurtell and John Hiotelis from St John Park. Winners of the Fours were St Johns Park against Forbes.
Triples Winners were F Tabone, B Carabetta & C Bin-
Our Minor Singles competition has kicked o with Jason Howell playing Scott McKellar. Scott sprinted out of the starting boxes taking the rst 3 ends until Jason got runs on the board. Scott gaining 3’s and a 4 saw the score board in his favour 18-2 on 10. Scott was not taking any prisoners and won another 7
points over the last 3 to win the game 25-2.
Billy Cowell, now going to be known as “The Brushes” took on Bobby Grant. It started out close and friendly with 6 all on 7. Bobby just edging in front on 15 leading 13-9. Bobby picked up the next 4 ends to increase his lead 199. The Brushes was not giving up and won the next 3, picking up 6 points but it was Bobby who took home the win 25-16.
The all anticipated Major Singles Final is to be played by Geo Williams and Spro so watch this space for the time and date, a game not to be missed.
WEDNESDAY BOWLS
Angela Dent and Paul Doust were on top of their
game last week winning 2410 in 20 ends over Gail McKay and Kerry Dunstan to be rewarded as card draw winners.
Card drawn runners-up resulted in a drawn game over 22 ends with Noel Jolli e and Billy Cowell nishing 19-all with Irene Reilly and Laurie Crouch. You can bet ‘Good Night’ wished she had stayed as she was drawn for the Members Draw that evening, only $1400.
There was only one other close game with the comeback kid Sid Walker leading for Peter Barnes winning 1917 in 22 over Cheryl Hodges and Lyall Strudwick coming for 6-11 down at the end of 10.
The one-sided games followed with Rob Hill and Dale Scott winning 25-9 in 16 over Ron Thurlow and John Baass.
Next door Colleen Leibich and Ann Mackay showed no mercy on the father and son combination of Geo and Michael Coles winning 22-15 late over 18 ends.
Indoor bowls champion Sue Smith showed her style leading for Peter Mackay winning 25-16 over Robyn Mattiske and Bill O’Connell nishing best a er it was 12all at the end of 14 in a 22 end game.
In the last ‘super’ lead Ann Nixon was all class for her and Barry Shine to win 24-11 in 22 over Garry James and Ross Williams leading 15-3 a er 11.
THURSDAY BOWLS
Thursday social bowls played in-conjunction with the Annual Bobby Asimus
Memorial Day saw 28 players including early arrival visitors for the Easter carnival battle it out over 20ends.
Boby Day (Toongabbie) and Al Phillips played Alan Hilder and Shane Partridge (Toongabbie). Bob and Al Phillips won the game 29-12. Tara Shaw and Jordan Wills (Denistone) took on Gary Minogue (Toongabbie) and Viv Russell. Gary and Viv just tipping the scales to win by 1 point 16-15.
Paul Doust and Bruce (Posso) Jones played Dale Maynard and Greg Gunn. Paul and Posso came away with the win 27-11.
Radar (Toongabbie) and Scott McKellar drew Pete Birtles (Toongabbie) and Glen Kearney. Radar and Scotty won 15-13.
Dave Halls (Toongabbie) and Cherie Vincent won against Max Vincent and Keith Smith (Toongabbie) 1916.
Ange Dwyer teamed with Peter Strong (Toongabbie) drew against Bob Russell and Spro Asimus. Spro doing his dad proud with he and Bob winning the game 28-11. Lyall Strudwick and Christan West played Billy Cowell and Sean Irvine (Toongabbie). Lyall and Westy just edging in front 19-14. Resting Touchers for the day: Bob Day and Paul Doust. Winning Rink – Rink 4 Bob Russell (Toongabbie) and Brian Asimus. 2nd Winning Rink: Paul Doust and Posso Jones.
Losing Rink – Alan Hilder and Shane Partridge (Toongabbie).
Callaghan in the zone with Easter weekend win
GOLF
By SHORT PUTT
On Saturday the Forbes mens golf saw yet another scintillating performance, this time by Todd Callaghan who shot a 70 Scratch in near perfect conditions.
The event was an Individual Par sponsored by ‘Forbes Tuesday Golfers’. The eld of 46 players was reduced by the Easter vacation exodus but nevertheless included strong players.
The Division 1 Winner was Todd Callaghan with a score of plus-5. He turned at plus1 having shot an even par-36 and in which his eagle on the 6th merely earned a ‘+’. He red on the back-9 nishing with plus-4 on his 34 Scratch. Runner-up Dave Mylecharane with a plus-3. He turned on ‘square’ but then also proceeded to bludgeon the back-9 with a plus-3.
The Division 2 went to Junior member Liam Fraser with a plus-1. He had an indi erent front-9 turning at 1-over but also excelled on the back-9 with a plus-2. Runner up was Paul Pymont with a handicap pleasing ‘All Square’.
The ball sweep went to 2-over on count back. Check in the Pro Shop to see if you were successful.
The NTP’s went to: 9th –
Paul Pymont; 18th – Cam McMillan, with both converting for a ‘2’.
The 3rd hole Super Pin went to Brad Ashton with a shot to 90 cm. It was a very satisfying shot.
Good Friday had a Stableford Medley where Pat Murphy took the balls with his 38 points. Sunday’s Stableford Medley did not have enough for a comp but Angus Caldwell managed 37 points and there was no comp on Monday.
This weekend is the Forbes Men’s Open with a 4BBB on Saturday, 26 April and the Open (Individual Stroke) on Sunday 27 April. Social play available in the late a ernoon on each day.
LADIES GOLF
Last Wednesday there was a good eld contesting the Allure on Main sponsored Stableford Event in two divisions. We had one visitor as well as a couple of our members playing their rst comp for the year.
Division 1 scores were not as good as Division 2 scores on the day.
Ev Uphill was the winner of Division 1 with 31 points on a countback while Kate SteelePark won Division 2 with 36 points. Kate has been playing
well recently. Kate also took the NTP on the 9th with Julie Scott just knocking o Kate for the NTP on the 18th.
Balls went to Colleen Bratton, Louise French, Lindy Pollock and Rose Carroll to 31 on a countback. All from Division 2.
Easter Saturday saw only a small eld with many ladies away enjoying the Easter break.
The three S’s fought it out with Sally Crosby coming out on top with 36, closely followed by Sally Perry with 35 and Sarah Black with 33. Sally Crosby also took the NTP on the 9th.
Saturday April 26 is an Individual Stableford sponsored by D Dingwall. It is also “Doing It for Jarrod” Day. Donations towards his legacy will be gratefully received.
Sunday April 27 the course will be closed for the Forbes Men’s Open.
Wednesday April 30 is an Individual Stableford sponsored by S Perry and H Du in 2 Divisions. It is also Cake Day so there will be a shotgun start.
Monday April 28 there will be a working bee from 8.30am to tidy up the gardens for the Forbes Ladies Open which is on Sunday May 4.
VETS GOLF
Twin towns veteran golfers enjoyed a change in scenery playing on a well manicured Forbes course last Thursday a er facing the challenge of playing on the equally well presented sand greens layout in Grenfell the week prior. While conditions were perfect scores were only reasonable with Scott Kirkman who took major honours winning with a par handicap round for 36 points winning on a count-back from fellow Forbes members Peter Barnes.
Parkes did have success to some degree with John Fowler travelling back home with the encouragement award. Twins town shield, Forbes with their best six scores from 21 players 205 points to Parkes (seven players) 157.
Nearest the pins, 9th A grade Scott Kirkman (F), B grade Gordon Pritchard (P), 18th A grade Ken Sanderson (F) , B grade nil. Ball sweep to 29 points, all from Forbes except John Grant from Grenfell with 31 points. From Forbes - 35 Allan Rees, 33 Niel Duncan,
Ken Walton, 32 Steve Uphill, Frank Hanns, Peter Schofield, Kim Herbert, 31 Peter Grayson, Don McKeowen, 29 John Milton, Graham Newport.
Was it the Easter break coming up as brilliant outdoor weather last Tuesday only had nine players for the 12 hole social comp where the BG scribe reported that the ‘grouchy’ Parker (Barry that is) won with a creditable 27 points. Hot on his heels were Peter Scho eld and Andrew Norton-Knight. For anyone interested Tuesday golf ball toss at 9am, all invited to play.
While on invitations, it is hoped at that all twin towns vets get behind the Veterans Golf Tournament scheduled for play in Forbes from Monday May 5 to Friday May 9. Schedule for play starts with a 2-ball ambrose medley on the Monday to nish with individual stableford on the Friday for play in the NSWVGA Medal.
There is plenty in between with a full schedule of play with nomination forms available from the Pro Shop in Forbes.
Enquiries can be directed to tournament o ce on 0435 585 460 or Pro Shop on 6851 1554.
David Sly, Andrew Rousell and Mike Prior watch Greg Hanns commence his round.
PHOTO: Short Putt
Shaws decisive in win
With DROP SHOT
Summer Squash has wrapped up with well-contested uno cial semi- nals for both Wednesday and Thursday night competitions played over April 9 and 10.
Unfortunately these reports were missed from last week’s Advocate. At the end, team positions were:
Wednesday: CJones lead with 182 points, Hardys second on 171, Webbs follow for 169, Markworts fourth with 165, Benticks next on 157 and RJones last with 157 also.
Thursday: Shaws sporting 255 points have snatched rst place from Jones’ now with 246. And Pipers holding 235, Dawes now fourth have 214 and Millers sport 213 then Hornerys on 200 points.
Finals for Thursday night April 17
Finalists: Shaws v Jones. Jake v sub Regan Acret; Regan dominated early taking two sets both 15-12 and despite Jake sneaking the third 15-10 Regan won the fourth set 15-11.
Jake returned to court def sub Brendon Allegri 15-6, 15-13, 15-6.
Mark Webb defeated sub Adam Chudleigh in straight sets 15-6, 15-6 and 15-11.
Fleet footed Max Ridley covered the court well winning against Adam Chudleigh over three sets which totaled 45 points to 24.
Sub Weivan Huang was defeated by Will Markwort 12-15, 7-15 and 8-15.
Dennis Haynes was two sets ahead 15-12, 15-8 of Deb Bryant but had trouble with Deb’s precision lobs, boasts and volleys to the front and back corners.
Deb’s consistent e orts stretched the third set from 9 all to a point for point rally until Den managed two consecutive points to make it 19-17 for the win.
Earlier, on Court one sub Tim Welsh and Josh Haley had a set for set stando of ve sets duration which culminated in Josh managing to win the match in the nal two sets 15-8, 15-8.
These results gave Shaws a decisive win making them the 2025 Thursday night summer comp champs.
Congratulations to winners and a big thanks to substitute players for being available to make the nals so entertaining. Get your nominations in now for the next competition.
Magpie season begins with derby Sunday
From the back page
With the Forbes rugby league club preparing for the Peter McDonald Premiership opener this weekend, coach Cameron Greenhalgh has the enviable headache of a stacked roster - thanks to an off-season brimming with resignings, sensational returns, and headline-grabbing new faces.
Among the first to recommit were Nick and Connor Greenhalgh, joined by the returning firepower of Mitchell Andrews and Hayden Bolam from Bathurst St Pat’s. Making the move with them is new-signing Nick Booth, while Parkes talents Jake and Chad Porter made the leap across the line.
Then there’s Harry Leadbitter, back from Canberra, and returning Jack Hartwig, Jack Smith, and Mick Coady all ready to shake things up.
While questions linger over Coopa Martin and rep gun Mitchell Andrews (managing
a knee issue), the coach isn’t putting any pressure on them given the depth of talent in the squad.
After a well-earned Easter break, the club hit the paddock with renewed focus under lights on Tuesday night to put the finishing touches on preparations for Sunday and the season.
“The way we’ve been going and training I’m excited to see the boys go to a whole new level,” Greenhalgh said.
A full day of footy kicks off with our Western Challengewinning league tag side, followed by the Under 18s, reserve grade and firsts scheduled for about 2pm.
Expect quality from the start.
“If you want to find where you usually sit at Spooner Oval, you probably want to get over there a bit earlier than you normally do I think,” Greenhalgh said.
“Hopefully it’s going to be packed to the hilt.”
FootyNRL TIPPING
It’s the clash we’ve all been waiting for.
The Forbes Magpies are back - and they’re bringing the thunder to Spooner Oval this Sunday, 27 April, as they launch their Peter McDonald Premiership campaign with a high-stakes home derby against the Parkes Spacemen.
It feels like anticipation has been building for months for this one.
“It’s been a good tough preseason,” says long-
serving first grade coach Cameron Greenhalgh, “The boys are fit and raring to go.”
A full day of footy kicks off with our Western Challenge-winning league tag side, followed by the Under 18s, reserve grade and finally the first grade side that’s had everyone talking through the off-season, that’s scheduled for about 2pm.
The coach’s tip is to get to the ground early and secure your vantage point.
ANZAC Day feature is back on local track
Racing returns to the Forbes Showground paceway this Friday, ANZAC Day, in an incredibly special event for the volunteers of the Forbes Diggers Harness Racing Club.
A moving ANZAC tribute, family fun day and great racing on track are all part of the plans as this historic annual meeting returns to feature on the local calendar, representing countless hours of volunteer work to restore the track and facilities since the destructive ood of November 2022.
Canowindra trainer Mat Rue has two pacers quali ed in one of the day’s features, The Palmer, a er success in the heats at Parkes last Friday night.
Rue was one of the trainers to attend the rst trial as the Forbes club got back on track earlier this year, and paid tribute to the club’s volunteers and their work.
Their dedication to harness racing has been evident over many years and their work has paid o in having the track prepared to excellent standard.
“To be honest, they had it prepared so you could have held a race meeting that day,” Rue said of the trial day.
Forbes trainer Jason Ga ney also plans to have a couple of starters in Sanders and Devils Bling for his rst home track meeting in more than two years.
“It’s pretty awesome to be back racing again,” he said.
“As a club, we’ve really knuckled down since the ood and put a lot of e ort into getting where we are.”
Ga ney too says the track is in outstanding condition.
“We’ve got a real solid base under it now,” he said. “Just by the few trials we’ve had over the past couple of months there seems to be plenty of speed in the track so we can only hope that it’s a great day and the rain stays away – even though we need it.”
The club has planned a great family day for all and are hoping the community will join them in it.
While the elds weren’t released in time for press, it’s anticipated gates will open at midday and Forbes Diggers Harness Racing Club president Lex Crosby is encouraging the community to come along and enjoy the a ernoon track-side. Entry is free but the club is accepting gold coin donations for ANZAC Day poppies crocheted by volunteer Bev Parsons and they hope to see everyone on course wearing one to honour our service men and women.
A new feature of the event will be the Forbes Diggers sporting challenge, with local sporting clubs urged to nominate runners for a relay around the track.
The pacers have nominated teams in both llies and colts divisions, with the runners to pull a gig around the track. Interest from local sports clubs was high when the event was agged earlier in the year, so it’s hoped we’ll see them out to cheer on their runners on Friday.
The ANZAC service will be a feature of the a ernoon, with racing to conclude with the main race, the Forbes Shire Council Diggers Cup.
It’s one of a series of special tribute races on the day, with others honouring those who have contributed to harness racing in Forbes over the club’s 70-year history.
2025 will again see the running of the Neville and Doreen Pellow, Pud Woods, Clarrie, Val and Peter Robb, Les Findlay and Robert and Rosemary Lee Memorials.
It will also feature the nal of The Palmer honouring legendary central west race caller Bill Palmer who will be on hand to present the trophy.
There is a canteen and bar, free children’s entertainment on course on the day.
FORBES
It’s to the Rac ...... FEATURE RACE:
FORBES SHIRE COUNCIL DIGGERS CUP MEMORIAL RACES:
• NEVILLE & DOREEN PELLOW
• PUD WOODS
• CLARRIE, VAL & PETER ROBB MEMORIAL
• LES FINDLEY MEMORIAL
• ROBERT & ROSEMARY LEE
CASH ONLY - NO EFTPOS!
