Forbes to host new parcel hub
Aus Post reveals plans to build processing facility
AUSTRALIA Post has revealed plans to build a parcel processing facility capable of handling up to 2200 parcels a day in Forbes.
Construction on the 1,796 square metre site is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with an expected opening towards the end of that year, Australia Post announced to media on Monday 19 May.
It’s one of six green eld sites across NSW to support parcel volume growth and improve service across rural and regional communities.
Australia Post General Manager Network Development and Support Services, Shane Plant, said the investment re ected Australia Post’s commitment to improving services for regional communities across Australia.
A concept render of the new parcel handling centre Australia Post plans to build in Forbes. IMAGE: Supplied
ing that 82 per cent of NSW households are now shopping online,” he said.
Sustainability is a key focus of the expansion, with all sites featuring 50kW roo op solar power generation, and a number also investing in rainwater harvesting and EV charging capability.
“In New South Wales, we’ve seen online purchases increase by 2.8 per cent yearon-year, with data indicat-
These purpose-built facilities are designed to boost parcel processing capability – handling between 900 parcels to 2,200 parcels per day – and enhance service across rural and regional communities as well as improving operational safety and eciency.
“Beyond speed and efciency, we’re focused on providing safer workplaces for our team members and building environmentally responsible infrastructure that can serve communities well unto the future.”
The other sites are planned for Tumut, Leeton, Casino and Deniliquin, with Forbes the largest of the builds.
BUSINESS NAMED BEST IN THE WEST
We’re
THE COURTHOUSE CAFÉ
Bringing more than banter to the table
Looking for conversation that goes beyond banter?
You’re not alone: and an organisation called The Men’s Table is coming to Forbes to get you connected.
They’re starting with an entrée on Tuesday 3 June.
Al Stratton, Western NSW regional host, said the “entrée” is exactly what it sounds like – a taster or preview of a table - and he’s encouraging men to register.
Al has been sitting on a table for three-and-a-half years and now works for the organisation, which is establishing tables in communities in-
cluding Eugowra, Canowindra and Parkes.
“The Men’s Table is a group of guys, basically, that meets once a month, and we have some guidelines around helping the conversation go a bit deeper,” he said.
The Men’s Table was formed in 2011 when, at the invitation of Ben Hughes, a group of men decided to have dinner with the intention of having a place to connect with other men, and talk about the highs and lows of their lives.
They’ve been meeting once a month ever since to talk,
laugh and share about what’s going on for them, and have forged relationships based on trust and acceptance.
Now, with the funding support of the Primary Health Network, they’re looking to establish more tables in Western NSW.
What they see is that men’s relationships are o en connected to work or sport.
“In those spaces there’s not a lot of opportunity for what we call ability to share from your heart about what’s going on for you in your life,” Al said.
The Men’s Table intention-
ally creates a safe and nonjudgemental space, where men can unload a bit.
It’s open to men aged 18 years and over.
The entrée night is an obligation-free opportunity to come and “kick the tyres”, Al said, to see if it’s for you.
“We do what we call a check-in round, everybody has a chance to say why they came tonight, why they responded to the invitation,” Al said.
“There’s many di erent reasons men join but around 60 per cent of men we survey say the reason is social con-
nection, but also seeking a real conversation.”
What: Men’s Table entree
Where: Club Forbes, Templar Street
When: 6.30 for 7pm start
Tuesday 3 June
Bookings: Are online now through events.humanitix. com
The cost of $27.50 covers your meal on the night.
WHAT’S ON in and around Forbes Big plans for Vintage Village site
EUGOWRA’S BIGGEST MORNING TEA
Thursday 22 May
Eugowra is hosting Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea for The Cancer Council again this year. It’s on at the bowling club from 10am with this year’s guest speaker from 11am. Enjoy delicious morning tea, snap up some ra e tickets or 100 club numbers - you might win a lucky door prize too. Together we can make a di erence for people impacted by cancer.
RED SHIELD APPEAL
This week
Look our for our Salvos volunteers collecting for this year’s Red Shield Appeal. Visit the Forbes store on Saturday 24 May to support the cause.
BUILD FORBES TRADIES NIGHT
Friday, 23 May
Build Forbes Tradies Night will be again this year at the Forbes Inn from 6-9pm. This night allows tradies, industry professionals and businesses to network. You can meet with other trades, learn about Forbes development trends and planning and nd out about job tendering opportunities. Book your free ticket at 123Tix. Forbes businesses and services are invited to host a free trade table – call 6850 2300 to book your space.
HOME GAMES
This weekend
See footy in Forbes in Saturday and Sunday, our rugby union and rugby league clubs both have home games!
Forbes Platypi host Dubbo Roos on Saturday 24 May at the Lake-side ovals.
Forbes Magpies host Dubbo CYMS on Sunday at Spooner Oval.
TALK2MEBRO CONSCIOUS CONNECTION WORKSHOP
Friday, 30 May
While Talk2MeBro’s free community catch-ups provide a taste
of what they o er, this workshop delves deeper, setting itself apart with its intensi ed focus and depth. Guided by their top-tier facilitators experience a comprehensive deep dive into breath, self-awareness, healing, and collective consciousness with Talk2mebro. This event is for both women and men and will be held at the Forbes Youth and Community Centre from 6.30pm to 9:45pm. Book your spot at Humanitix
OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT
Friday 30 May
Forbes Youth Action Team is bringing Runt to the big screen at Nelson Park for a fun, family outdoor movie night. There will be popcorn, fairy oss, doughnuts, co ee and food vans. BYO chair and blankets - and don’t forget to rug up warm! It’s all on at Nelson Park from 4.30pm for a movie start time of 5.30pm.
HOPE IN SUFFERING
Saturday 31 May
All are welcome to attend an evening of re ection as Forbes Anglican Church tackles one of life’s most di cult questions: Why would a good God allow suffering and is there hope?
The event will be held on Saturday 31 May at 7pm in the Forbes
www.forbesadvocate.com.au
Anglican Church Hall. All members of the community are warmly invited to attend. Whether you’re grappling with your own su ering, supporting someone you love, or simply curious, this evening promises to be thoughtful, compassionate, and real.
Light refreshments will be provided. Full story page 8.
THE GOLDEN PLOUGH
Saturday, 31 May and Sunday, 1
June
The Golden Plough is one of the most prestigious ploughing competitions in Australia which rst began in 1976. This year it will be held at the Peak Hill Showground. Gate entry is $15 which covers both days.
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. This “entree” will be hosted by a couple of longstanding 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
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FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR
Matt Morrison Oval, 8 June, 10am - 11:45pm
The king’s birthday long weekend goes o with a bang, the Annual Wyangala Bon re & Fireworks Spectacular is back!
This is a free community event made possible by the hard work of our incredible Wyangala Fireworks Committee volunteers and the generous sponsorships and donations from local businesses and the community.
NEW VOGUE AND SOCIAL TWELVE-HOUR DANCE
22 June, 10am - 10pm - Tickets
$15
The New Vogue and Social Dance Group presents the Twelve-Hour Dance at Canowindra Services Club. Featuring a special dance demonstration by well-known dancers and choreographers, Andrea and John Barwick. Music will be provided by Barry Whitty and Phil Redenbach, and the MC will be Doug Moorby. Further details contact Gail on 0417 747 338.
CANOWINDRA ESKY BALL
July 25, 5:30pm - 11:30pm
Tickets $80
Grab your group, pack the esky and help us raise some money for the show society to improve the annual show and maintain/ improve the facilities for years to come. Grazing boxes to start followed by delicious hot food from the Fat Parcel Food Van. K’nOath will having you rocking the night away.
MOCK CRASH AUDITIONS
Thursday, 5 June
Calling all aspiring young actors from across the region, mock crash auditions for 2025 will be held at the Parkes SES Shed located in Clarke Street from 5pm to 8pm. You must be 16 or over to take part. You must register to attend the auditions by calling our Road Safety O cer Melanie Suitor on 6861 2364 or email melanie. suitor@parkes.nsw.gov.au
By CHRIS ROYLANCE, DEPUTY MAYOR
On Saturday the town celebrated that it had been 50 years since Gough Whitlam officially opened the Lachlan Vintage Village – you can watch the reel at the newly refurbished Visitor Information Centre on the site in Mary Street. It is also very exciting as we commemorate this special event, we have launched several opportunities currently available at the site.
Developers and accommodation providers are invited to review and apply to develop one of two prime sites (with Newell Highway Frontage) within the Forbes Visitor Information Centre precinct.
The two sites are for a motel/conference centre (2.31ha) and a caravan/holiday park (3.28ha).
Council believes this is a unique opportunity to shape the future of accommodation in Forbes, to meet growing number of travellers visiting the area. Closing 30 June 2025.
Suitably qualified operators are also currently being invited to submit an EOI to lease the very popular Forbes Visitor Information Centre Cafe/Restaurant since the current operator has given notice. This is a very popular cafe, and we are hoping to attract a skilled chef/ operator to run the busy venue, possibly even seven days a week.
Finally local producers are again invited to submit an EOI to supply and sell their local goods at the new Forbes Visitor Information Centre, located at the former Lachlan Vintage Village.
See Tenders and Expressions of Interest on the Forbes Shire Council website for all current EOI opportunities.
NSW Reconstruction Authority is hosting a business forum to help Central West business owners who have experienced or are at risk of over-floor flooding.
Flood-resilience experts will present simple and practical ways business owners can restore their business premises quickly after a flood. The presentation will include practical tips and advice about building materials which will help you open your doors and start trading as soon as possible after a flood.
It will be at Club Forbes, 41-45 Templar St, from 6-8pm on Tuesday 3 June.
The Golden Plough will be in Peak Hill on 31 May and 1 June.
The first Men’s Table formed in 2011 and the group has been meeting to talk, laugh and share about what’s going on for them ever since.
Local business named the best in the west
FORBES-based Topsoil Organics has been named Western NSW’s 2025 Business of the Year at a Gala event in Dubbo.
This family-owned business launched the Central West Nutrient Return Centre to divert organic waste from land ll and turn it into premium compost for broadacre farming.
Dan and Lana Nicholson remain driven by a commitment to sustainability and the circular economy, and as revealed in last week’s Forbes Advocate, their plans continue to grow.
Their planned regenerative energy hub will feature an anaerobic digester to generate renewable electricity, EV fast-charging stations for all vehicle types, and a café and meeting space.
At Friday night’s awards, Topsoil Organics also won category awards for Excellence in Sustainability and Excellence in Large Business.
Dan and Lana said the awards were an honour.
“We’re incredibly proud of our team, their dedication, innovation and hard work are what drive everything we do,” they said.
“This recognition is a testament to our commitment to building a more sustainable future.”
The independent judges praised Topsoil Organics for their business
excellence which is grounded in environmental innovation, local economic development, and operational resilience.
“Topsoil Organic’s win showcases the incredible innovation, determination and ingenuity that we know is very much alive amongst our Western NSW business community,” said Vicki Seccombe, Regional Director – Western NSW, Business NSW.
“By transforming waste into energy and regenerative solutions, they are creating lasting environmental, agricultural, and community bene ts for a cleaner future.”
Ms Seccombe said the awards recognised an incredible group of winners from across Western NSW and across a whole range of industries.
Henley’s Rustics, another local family-owned business that repur-
poses scrap corrugated iron into garden beds, and Allwright Burke Solicitors and Conveyancers, were also shortlisted for awards at a regional level.
“The Western NSW Business Awards are all about celebrating and showcasing the diverse array of talent in Western NSW’s business community and this year’s winners should feel incredibly proud to be named as the region’s leading businesses and leaders for 2025,” Ms Seccombe said.
“Each business leader and business has showcased innovation and sustainability, with a focus on their teams and their local communities.
“We continue to see some di cult trading conditions for businesses, so these awards are a wonderful opportunity to shine a spotlight on our amazing group of nalists from right across the region.”
The 2025 Western NSW Business Awards were proudly supported by 123 Tix and category sponsors, AusIndustry, Colton Computer Technologies, Dubbo RSL Club, Dubbo Regional Council, Joblink Plus, Regional Development Australia Central West, Regional Development Australia Orana, Southern Cross Austereo and Telstra.
Winners of the Western NSW will now represent the region at the State Awards in October.
Man, 44, facing charges after Operation Amarok search
POLICE have seized ammunition and what’s believed to be methamphetamine during a compliance search in Forbes under a State-wide police operation.
It’s alleged police located a modied pole with a knife attached, ammunition and a bag of crystallised substance when they executive a rearm prohibition order compliance search last Thursday 15 May.
A 44-year-old man was arrested and taken to Parkes Police Station where he was charged with contravene prohibition/restriction in AVO (DV), possess prohibited drug, acquire ammunition subject to prohibition order, and possess ammunition without holding licence/permit/authority.
He was refused police bail to face local court.
The search was part of a four-day, State-wide operation targeting domestic and family violence that has resulted in police charging 627 people with more than 1300 o ences.
Police laid 1316 charges and conducted 1276 bail compliance checks and 12,926 apprehended domestic violence order (ADVO) compliance checks with a total of 535 breaches identi ed. O cers conducted 125 rearms prohibition order searches, with 100 rearms and 16 weapons seized.
Domestic and Family Violence
Corporate Sponsor, Assistant Commissioner Peter Mckenna, said Amarok X had a focus on protecting young victims with o cers from Youth Command attending schools and PCYCs to help educate and engage with young people.
“We know the psychological trauma caused by a child or young person, when they are exposed to domestic and family abuse, can have a lasting e ect,” Assistant Commissioner Mckenna said.
“No one – and especially no child – should have to experience violence and should be safe in their own home.
“There have been 160,000 reported incidents of domestic violence in the past 12 months, which is an average of about 438 per day. That is unacceptable and is not tolerated by police or our society.
Billings told to face court on murder charge
By STEPHANIE GARDINER, AAP
THE man accused of the domestic violence murder of Molly Ticehurst has been ordered to face court, with a magistrate noting the case has been outstanding for a year.
The loved local childcare educator’s tragic death was on 22 April 2024.
Her former boyfriend, Daniel Billings, is charged with her domestic violence murder, along with 16 other offences.
Billings had been freed on bail a fortnight before the alleged murder on charges related to Ms Ticehurst.
More charges were laid in December 2024.
The 30-year-old has not entered pleas.
Billings’ case was briefly mentioned in Forbes Local Court on Friday morning, though he was not required to attend.
Crown prosecutor Shaun Croner told the court the legal parties needed a four-week adjournment.
“The parties are in negotiation and we just need to finalise negotiations,” Mr Croner said.
Magistrate Michael Maher said it was the third case conference mention and the next court date had to be a committal.
“The nine previous Amarok operations have proven successful, with more than 5000 o enders arrested and more than 10,000 charges laid.
“We use intelligence to identi ed o enders who have an increased
capability, intent and access to a victim.
“We will continue to arrest and charge violent, repeat o enders who disregard their court orders,” Assistant Commissioner Mckenna said.
“This matter has been outstanding since last April,” Mr Maher said.
He ordered the legal representatives to appear in person at Parkes Local Court on June 20, while Billings can appear via audio-visual link from custody for the committal.
Several members of Ms Ticehurst’s family were in court to watch the brief proceedings. A committal is generally the first step in moving a case to a higher court.
Support services are available:
• Lifeline 13 11 14
• Men’s Referral Service 1300 766 491
• 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)
• National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028
Dan and Lana Nicholson founded the Central West Nutrient Return Centre and their vision for it continues to grow. PHOTO: Supplied
Now the time to have flu vaccine
INFLUENZA is rising rapidly in Australia with more than 75,000 con rmed in uenza cases already reported to the National Noti able Diseases Surveillance System this year.
Health professionals warn the u season is expected to peak earlier this year, with 28,858 con rmed cases in NSW.
It’s a timely reminder for families and vulnerable members of the community to speak with healthcare providers about vaccination, local pharmacies say.
“We’ve certainly seen an increase in the number of people coming into the pharmacies for their vaccinations – unfortunately until the colder weather hits it doesn’t remind people to get out and get that u vaccine,” Owner, and Pharmacist in Charge of Orana Mall Pharmacy, Lisa Gibson said.
Opportunity awaits for local Young Woman
FORBES Show is getting closer and now’s the time to think about one of the great opportunities associated with it - the Young Woman competition.
“The best time to get vaccinated is from now, peak u season is from June to September, so we want as many people as possible protected and vaccinated against in uenza before that peak season hits to take pressure of our doctors and hospitals.
“Quite o en long weekends and school holidays are a time for family gatherings, you might be seeing the older relatives in your family, or those with babies, and we want to protect those individuals.
“It takes two weeks to get full protection from the vaccine so now is the opportune time.”
The u vaccine is recom-
mended for all Australians over six months of age with modelling suggesting in uenza cases may be higher than reported.
“Those who are at more risk of serious illness and hospitalisation have access to free u vaccinations under the National Immunisation Program (NIP),” Lisa said.
“Little ones under ve years, adults who are 65 and over, those people with chronic medical conditions that put them at risk of having more severe disease, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and pregnant women are the ones we really want to protect with
vaccinations, so the government has a free vaccine for them to get that protection.”
Patients are encouraged to speak with their local pharmacist, or GP, to determine which vaccine is suitable and who quali es for the NIP.
You can go online to https://lifepharmacygroup. com.au/flannerys-pharmacy/ to book a u shot, phone the pharmacy on 02 6852 1111 or speak to them in store.
For more information on the National Immunisation Program visit: https://www. health.gov.au/topics/immunisation/vaccines/in uenzau-vaccine
Save the date, there’s an information night where you can learn all about it on Wednesday 2 July, before the judging later that same month.
The Young Woman competition brings together young people doing amazing things in regional areas and for our communities
and our 2024 Forbes Show Young Woman Libby Coles spoke highly of her experience.
“I initially really entered because I really wanted to highlight Forbes and the Forbes Show in particularjust to highlight how great a country show we are,” Libby said.
“From there it’s grownthere are so many amazing women I’ve met through this experience.”
The information night is on Wednesday 2 July 2025
at Club Forbes between 6.30-7.30pm for anyone who would like to know more. This is a chance to speak to the coordinators and hear from former Condobolin Young Woman and NSW Rural Achiever nalist Tash Hurley about her experiences.
Judging will take place on Saturday 26 July, with interviews to be followed by a celebratory a ernoon tea for entrants and their families. The 2025 Forbes Show is on Saturday 13 September.
2025/26 and Schedule of Fees and Charges 2025/26. For more information go to https://www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/council/tenders-publicexhibitions-and-expressions-of-interest/public-exhibitions. All submissions must be received in writing by Council, addressed to the General Manager, by 5:00pm on 13 June 2025, either by email to forbes@forbes.nsw.gov.au, via post: PO Box 333, Forbes NSW 2871 or at Council’s Administration Office at 2 Court Street, Forbes. Expression of Interest – Weekend Caretaker/Park Host - Apex Riverside Tourist Park, Forbes NSW2-Year Contract Opportunity Council is seeking a motivated person or couple to take on a weekend caretaker role at the beautiful Apex Riverside Tourist Park, located on the banks of the Lachlan River. Council welcomes Expressions of Interest until 5:00pm Sunday 15 June 2025. For more information go to https://www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/council/tenderspublic-exhibitions-and-expressions-of-interest/tenders-and-eoi
Pharmacist Jack Buckley at Flannerys encouraging people to get their flu vaccines.
Local duo trek for Vision Australia
They’ve done it!
Forbes’ Tri-Hard trekkers have completed the ve-day trek for vision in New Zealand and raised more than $36,000 for Vision Australia thanks to incredible community support.
Inspirational, is how locals Michelle Quigley and Leigh Bartholomaeus described this latest venture in a 40-year friendship.
“We didn’t know what to expect and it just exceeded all our expectations,” Michelle said.
The Abel Tasman walk takes you through the lush rainforest and beaches of New Zealand – it’s absolutely spectacular.
But it’s rated a Grade 3 of 5 in terms of challenge – and it’s a far cry from the at pathways around Lake Forbes the two normally walk.
Neither of the local ladies had taken on anything like this trek before but once Michelle saw it promoted through Vision Australia’s social media she was determined to give it a go.
It’s 11 years since Michelle and her sister Nell were diagnosed with the genetic condition Cone Dystrophy, a progressive eye condition which a ects the central vision.
PHOTOS: Supplied
“I said this would be so good: I could fundraise and give back to Vision Australia coz they’ve been so good,” Mi-
The Trek for Vision crew covered 53km in five days along the Abel Tasman walk. Leigh and Michelle joined the walk along the picturesque New Zealand coast.
PHOTOS: Supplied
chelle said.
Vision Australia has been invaluable in raising awareness of and letting her try the sorts of supports that are available – from smart glasses that read to you, to a device that sits on the top of your mug to let you know the boiling water is reaching the top when you’re making a cuppa.
“I went (to Vision Australia) fairly early in my diagnosis and they set me up with different aids that I needed,” Michelle said.
Leigh put her hand up to join her on the trek and their training and fundraising began.
They added weighty backpacks to their walks around the Lake and headed to Nangar National Park on a couple of occasions to try to get some hill training in.
On the fundraising front, their highly successful Variety Night earlier this year raised more than $21,000 for the cause.
But the incredible community support didn’t stop there: among the donations that have continued to come in, our Handicra Centre donated $1000.
That news came through while Michelle and Leigh were in New Zealand and really made an impact on everyone involved in the trek.
Michelle was one of ve vision impaired explorers to
take on the trek, one bringing her guide dog, and Leigh one of seven support trekkers. They had a trio of local guides.
It was an incredible experience, inspiring the word both Michelle and Leigh put forward repeatedly as they try to sum up the incredible landscape and incredible people they travelled it with.
Soaking in their incredible surrounds and spectacular landscapes of the trek was a very grounding experience.
So was connecting with the other trekkers, who came from di erent areas of Australia and had a range of levels of vision impairment.
Navigating the trail together - issuing verbal warnings of every rock, tree root and drop – was awareness-raising in itself.
Hearing some of the others’ experiences has sparked a new level of awareness of how far we still have to go to be inclusive.
The group was able to share a lot of their knowledge with each other but also a lot of laughter.
Michelle and Leigh have made new friends for life, and the group is already looking at future opportunities to connect.
You can nd out more or donate online at vision-australia.grassrootz.com/abeltasman-2025/tri-hard-trekkers
The Trek for Vision took the crew through beautiful rainforest and along beaches.
Leigh Bartholomaeus and Michelle Quigley completeda five-day walk along the incredible New Zealand coast to raise funds for Vision Australia.
Time to have your say on council’s budget
A balanced budget, with a 4.4 per cent general rates increase, is what’s laid out in Forbes Shire Council’s dra operational plan for 2025-2026.
The council’s dra budget and plans will go on display for community comment a er consideration by councillors at their May meeting.
The council is forecasting a $5.5m operating surplus - including capital grants - for its consolidated fund, Council’s Manager of Corporate Business Kylie Grayson said in her report to councillors.
The dra budget would see general purpose rates increase 4.4 per cent, in line with the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal increase.
Water consumption charges would increase from $1.80 per kilolitre to $1.88 per kilolitre, to fund major capital upgrades in the near future.
This gure is still considerably lower than the 2024/25 water consumption charges for neighbouring councils which range from
a minimum of $2.10 per kl to $4.85 per kl, Ms Grayson’s report to councillors says.
Water and sewer access charges are set to increase ve to seven percent.
Ratepayers will also see a four per cent increase in rubbish charges to help fund the waste expansion project over coming years, as well as to cover increased operating costs.
Capital works –predominantly in water, sewer and waste - will see about $4.5m of council’s cash reserves used up.
These include the start of the Daroobalgie tip expansion and developing water and sewer services for increasing residential development in North Forbes.
There’s $4.4 million of road-related capital expenditure and $3.2 million for plant replacement.
Loan repayments are forecast to total $2.8million for the year.
Council’s budget and operational plans will be available at Town Hall o ces or on the website forbes. nsw.gov.au for a 28-day consultation period.
looked on course at the harness racing on ANZAC Day.
Each hand-crafted by Bev Parsons, 550 of these crocheted creations were offered at the gate for a donation.
They sold out, with people more than happy to donate to the cause.
Forbes Diggers Harness Racing president Lex Crosby said his vision for the
return to racing for Forbes after the track was destroyed in the 2022 floods, was to have everyone on course wearing a poppy.
The day was so outstandingly successful he estimated only the first half through the gates managed to secure a poppy.
Now the club has donated half the pro-
supporting the families of veterans. Mr Crosby thanked Mrs Parsons for the hours of work she’d put into crafting the poppies.
As Forbes’ harness racing club was founded by local diggers, for diggers, the ANZAC day meeting is a very special one and the poppies contributed greatly to the feeling on course on the day.
Funding facilitates connections at Bogan Gate
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Have you heard the laughter and chatter echoing from inside the Bogan Gate Community Memorial Hall recently?
If you have you will nd it was coming from the many friendly locals who come together to participate in seniors workshops.
The Bogan Gate seniors workshops began last year and with their success are being held again this year.
Bogan Gate Seniors Workshops coordinator and Bogan Gate Hall secretary, Shelley Nutley, said the workshops were established for people to pop in and get to know others.
“We have a great program arranged for this autumn, winter and spring ranging from felt cra , weaving,
painting, bingo, low impact tennis and gentle exercise,” Shelley said.
“Looking a er your mental health and getting to know other people in the area is why we started these work-
shops. It’s important to know somebody else in the area and if you have a problem you can ring them up and say ‘hey I need help’.”
Ever since the workshops started last year there has
been a group of seniors who haven’t stopped attending.
“Ros and I come because we have to but even on the days we’re not actually physically running the workshops ourselves we still come,”
Shelley said.
“It’s good for the mental health and everybody is busy.”
Shelley said if she didn’t go to the workshops she would be working at home and not seeing anyone and that is the same for many Bogan Gate seniors who live on a property.
“So unless we come to things like this we just don’t see anyone.”
Lat year Evolution Mining Northparkes Operations funded the workshops together with Jemalong Irrigation and Bogan Gate Hall.
This year the seniors workshops are backed by Australia Post, GrainCorp, Parkes Shire Council and Bogan Gate Hall (volunteers and venue).
With grants from businesses it means the group are able
to pay people to come in and run workshops, buy supplies and supply morning tea.
“These grants enable these workshops to go ahead,” Shelley added.
The seniors who attended the rst workshop said attending the workshops gives them a chance to socialise, learn new skills, see a di erent four walls and catch up with people.
“It’s a good social time, the conversation is anything and everything and nothing in between,” Ros Edwards said. Seniors workshops are exclusive to Bogan Gate postcode seniors only with all equipment and supplies for workshops included and no cost to participants.
To book your spot and for more information you can contact Shelley on 0428 738 172.
Pharmacy students embrace life in Australia
A group of visiting phar macy students has seen rst hand the di erence they can make in people’s lives in ru ral pharmacy.
Pharmacy students from New Zealand have been working on the frontline in regional New South Wales in an initiative aimed at encour aging the next generation of pharmacists to live in region al Australia.
The Life Pharmacy Group placement program provides Bachelor of Pharmacy stu dents, from the University of Otago, a practical under standing of working in an Australian community phar macy.
It’s a rotation that encour age students to join the group for their intern year, and in turn increase the number of newly quali ed pharmacists eager to work and live in ru ral NSW and the ACT.
Zandra Hinton, Aisling Casey, and Jonah Smith have been working with Life Pharmacy and Flannery’s Pharmacy in Forbes, and Parkes Pharmacy, over the past week.
For Aisling, the di erence between city and rural pharmacy has been eye-opening.
“Australia I nd is really well equipped to deal with that: with more e cient dispensary processes, and just having everyone more hands-on.”
The pharmacy’s dispensary robot is one of the big di erences, and for Zandra it’s a game-changer in giving pharmacists more time to
“Getting to be out on the oor, feel like you’re making a di erence, talking to patients and making a connection - I’ve really enjoyed that.”
The students have really noticed and appreciated how welcoming everyone has been and willing to speak with them.
networking between health professionals in our community.
They can see clearly the opportunities to use the knowledge they have to advocate for patients.
“That’s something I don’t take lightly as a training health professional,” she said.
Police investigate surge in property theft
Police are investigating vehicle thefts and thefts from vehicles after a surge in property crime late last week, but they have also made a number of arrests and laid charges.
Police have recovered a Honda motorcycle reported stolen on 13 May, with a 24-year-old male to face court in July on theft and traffic charges. They’re still investigating the theft of a 2012 Hyundai hatchback from the Parkes Road, as well as a series of thefts from vehicles.
Offenders struck on 14 May, with reports of thefts from vehicles in Calarie Road and Thomson Street. Jewellery and tobacco were stolen from one vehicle, two speakers and a wallet were stolen from another. A few nights later, on 18 May, thieves stole a handbag containing cash from a vehicle.
Police investigations continue but they have charged a 38-year-old with vehicle theft; and a 36-year-old with being in possession of a knife. They have also charged a 26-year-old male with contravening an apprehended violence order; and arrested another male on an outstanding warrant.
Anyone with any information that can help police inquiries should contact them on 6853 9999 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Home devastated by fire
A home has suffered extensive fire, smoke and water damage in a night-time fire.
Emergency services rushed to the south Forbes home at 1.18am on Tuesday 20 May in response to multiple 000 calls.
Fire and Rescue crews arrived to find NSW Ambulance helping residents away from the property. They were taken to hospital for treatment.
Two vehicles in the carport were well alight and had spread to the house with flames protruding through the roof and side of the property, Forbes Fire and Rescue NSW Brigade said on social media. Crews worked to slow the spread of the fire and protect neighbouring properties, with support from Rural Fire Service and Parkes crews.
Salvos seek our support in 2025 Red Shield Appeal
The 61st Red Shield Appeal is here and you’ll see our friendly Salvos volunteers out and about.
Funds raised this week position the Salvation Army to be there for those in need in our community year-round - and our local Salvos know all too well the need.
Forbes / Parkes Corps leader Wendy Broome hears heartbreaking stories every day from people going without good food, heating or lights at night, isolated because something like a co ee out with a friend would break the budget.
Donations help our local Salvos meet people’s essential needs with food hampers, food, clothing and fuel vouchers.
They’ll also be ready to support families at Christmas time.
You can also donate goods to the Family Store, which is now located in
the church building in Rankin Street.
Please be assured all funds raised for Red Shield Appeal in the central west stay right here.
Can you support the Red Shield Appeal?
You can donate either with cash or card:
Outside Bernardis all week 9am1pm;
Outside Woolworths Forbes Saturday and Sunday 9am to 2pm; At the Forbes Family Store Monday to Friday 9.30am to 3.30pm.
This Saturday you can also support Red Shield Appeal by heading to the Family Store between 9.30am to 3.30pm.
All proceeds from the day will support the Red Shield Appeal in Forbes.
You can also donate online by visiting salvationarmy.org.au or call 13 SALVOS.
Yvonne Harmston and Belinda Facey collecting for the Salvos Red Shield Appeal. PHOTO: Supplied
Don Gordon is collecting for Red Shield Appeal at the front of Bernardi’s.
Supplied
Thank you Eugowra: Hospital Auxiliary blown away by community support
On Friday 9 May the Eugowra Hospital Auxiliary held their annual Mother’s Day Street Stall and they were blown away by the outpouring of generosity and community spirit shown by locals and visitors to our stall.
All our net profit goes towards helping our MPS residents.
We sold out of delicious home-baked goodies, dispatched five lucky 100 Clubs, raffle tickets flew off the table and many gardens will look glorious.
We would like to give a huge thank you to Danny’s Supermarket and Newsagency, Eugowra Public School, the Craft Shop, Head on In and The Fat Parcel, where we also hold our stall; for their support in ticket sales before the event.
Now we are excited to brainstorm ways to enhance the daily lives of our MPS residents and we have a few ideas to work towards.
Our town is truly blessed to have such a dedicated group and amazing supporters.
The Hospital Auxiliary meets on the third Friday of each month, except September, at 2p.m. in the MPS and we warmly welcome new members to join us.
Our next meeting is on 20 June, with our AGM being on 11 July.
Check out the full list of winners below. Congratulations to all the winners and many thanks for your support!
Open Order $100 Bev Slaven; Mother’s Day Basket Liz Adams.
100 Clubs: 1st $50 Di Agustin, Bev Slaven, Lalla Weekes, Pat Jones and Janet Moxey; 2nd $30 Hugh Barber, Peter Slaven, Barry Yeatman, Maddie Tildsley and Danielle Wykamp;
3rd $20 Ann Marie Randell, Sally Mongan, Sean Haynes, Robert Taylor and Peter Wykamp.
See you again in November!
By VICKI KNIGHT
VIEW calls for support of Smith Family appeal
Forbes VIEW Club is urging the local community to give generously to The Smith Family’s Winter Appeal this year, to support thousands of children and young people experiencing disadvantage with their education.
It comes as The Smith Family’s latest Community Attitudes Survey (CAS) of the Australian public, shows four out of five respondents (83 per cent) believe that tackling childhood poverty should be a top national priority.
The Smith Family CEO Doug Taylor says “poverty shouldn’t limit a child’s potential”, which is why the charity is launching its Winter Appeal today.
The Appeal aims to raise almost $8 million by the end of June 2025 to support students experiencing disadvantage by providing access to proven out-of-school educational programs.
“The results of our Community Attitudes Survey show Australians recognise poverty has an impact on a child’s education,” Mr Taylor says.
“However, what many people don’t see are the hidden impacts of disadvantage and the incredible emotional, social and academic toll that can have on students during and after their schooling.
“But the right educational support at the right time through The Smith Family’s evidence-based programs can make all the difference to those students and give them the tools and resources to fulfill their potential.”
“By donating to the Winter Appeal, Australians can help young people most in need by giving them access to extra learning tools, so they can get the most out of their education and create better futures for themselves.”
The Smith Family’s student2student is a one-on-one pro -
gram that brings an older and younger student together to read once a week.
Learning Clubs are a free, after-school-hours support program that offers tutoring and help students with homework and assignments.
“The evidence-based programs The Smith Family is delivering are as crucial as the financial and personal support we provide to students and families,” Mr Taylor says.
“Of the children participating in student2student, 94 per cent say they improved their reading, while 81 per cent of those taking part in Learning Club say it helped them do better in the classroom.
“For people in a position to do so, please consider donating to The Smith Family’s Winter Appeal,” Mr Taylor says.
“Donations mean we can support more students with access to our programs and provide more help for children and young people experi -
encing disadvantage.
“Your donation today can have an enormous, life-changing impact for a student.
“Let’s make tackling childhood poverty and educational inequality a priority, beginning this winter.”
VIEW (Voice, Interests and Education of Women) is a national women’s organisation and support network, bringing together women to enjoy social activities, develop skills, and make connections – all while supporting Australian children experiencing disadvantage.
VIEW is also largest community sponsor of students on The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, with Forbes View club supporting nine students through its fundraising activities.
For those who are interested to find out more about VIEW or who would like to join visit view.org.au or call Helen on 0427201445.
Garden club’s great day trip, learnings
Our April meeting was held in the lovely gardens at the home of John Browne on a beautiful sunny autumn day.
President Marg Dent welcomed 28 present with six apologies.
Our guest speaker was Jan Diprose from the Weddin Community Native Nursery at Grenfell, a volunteer nursery started under the Landcare banner.
Seeds are collected, sorted and stored. They are grown in hot houses and sold to farmers and shire councils.
Jan was an inspirational speaker who was duly thanked.
John Browne also spoke on his garden, home to many unusual plants.
Flower of the month winners were:
FORBES ANGLICAN CHURCH
All are welcome to attend an evening of reection as we tackle one of life’s most di cult questions: Why would a good God allow su ering and is there hope?
Hosted by Forbes Anglican Church, the evening will feature a guest speaker who has personally endured deep pain, including the heartbreaking loss of a child.
Drawing on these experiences and his faith, the speaker will explore
the nature of su ering and share a message of hope for those who are struggling.
“This is a question that touches every life at some point,” said Forbes Anglican minister, Roger Phelps.
“We want to create a space where people can honestly wrestle with these big questions, and also be reminded that hope can be found, even in the darkest times.”
The event will be held on Saturday 31 May at 7pm in the Forbes Anglican Church Hall.
All members of the community are warmly invited to attend.
Whether you’re grappling with your own su ering, supporting someone you love, or simply curious, this evening promises to be thoughtful, compassionate, and real. Light refreshments will be provided.
PICTURED RIGHT: The event will be on Saturday 31 May at 7pm in the Forbes Anglican Church Hall.
PHOTO: Supplied
Ra e winners were Joy Hocking, Elvy Quirk, Janette Thomas, Meg Schole eld and John Browne.
Our bus trip to visit the Tumbling Downs Olive Grove at Bogan Gate started out with a bus lled with members and friends all eager for an outing in this beautiful autumn weather.
We were welcomed by Colin and Shelley Nutley with a delicious Devonshire Tea.
Shelley spoke of the history of their farm, how they pick and press the olives, and had lots of jams, relishes and oil tasting.
We then enjoyed a sumptuous meal at the refurbished Bogan Gate Pub.
Our next stop was visiting three gardens at Parkes.
The rst at the home of Leah Douglas who had been
1st Denise Thurston –Clematis; 2nd Elvy Quirk – Dahlia; 3rd Marlene HufRose.
inundated with the 2022 oods. Lots of advanced trees, a large area to explore and tend.
Next was Nancy McColl. Her large cottage type led us into lots of paths around her home lled with trees and shrubs.
At the last garden at Fay and Kelvie Blackstock’s home all manner of creations from old machinery made by Kelvie with succulents planted everywhere was a wonder to behold.
We are so appreciative of the planning by Denise Thurston for this fantastic day.
Our next meeting will we at the home of Mel and Anita Sinclair 58 McDonnell St Forbes on Tuesday 27 May at 2pm. Our speaker is Sarah Curry, please bring a chair ower of month and a mug.
By GREEN THUMB
Church’s focus on finding hope in the midst of suffering
Damien, a visitor from Cowra, drew the ra le prize for the Eugowra Hospital Auxiliary fundraiser. PHOTO:
Sounds of music fill Town Hall
The sounds of music lled Forbes Town Hall on Sunday as two Forbes-grown musicians brought together the grandeur of the pipe organ and the technology of the electone in concert.
There was fun, nostalgia, beauty and power in the morning’s program and a good crowd lled the historic venue to hear it.
Maz Rees and Grant Barton have been working on the music for months: developing a program of solo and duet performances across the two instruments.
It was all to raise awareness of just how incredible the pipe organ donated to Forbes is, and to raise funds for Forbes CanAssist.
Grant and Maz shared about each of the instruments with the audience through the morning.
The pipe organ has a particularly interesting history as it spent many years in our
local hardware store. It was custom built in 1981 for the late Paul Coles, who owned Forbes Builders Supplies in the building SYLO now occupies, and musicians would visit to play it.
It incorporates 16 Octave pipes made in Germany and a pedal board which Paul already owned.
So much about the electone stands in contrast to the pipe organ and Grant demonstrated how incredibly diverse the instrument is.
He could transform it into a string quartet, a rock band, another organ, a piano, and much more.
Hours of preparation go into preparing and programming the electone for every song for a performance.
Bringing the two instruments together in concert was an incredible e ort and Maz and Grant moved between the two instruments through the concert.
They’d prepared arrangements of music from Game of Thrones, Harry Potter, How To Train Your Dragon and so much more for the occasion.
There was fun and nostalgia with Baby Elephant Walk and When Smoke Gets in Your Eyes; through to the power of Phantom of the Opera.
The nale, Defying Gravity from Wicked, brought the audience to their feet and they called for an encore.
Grant concluded the concert with a performance of Amazing Grace on the pipe organ, with backing prepared for the electone.
John Shrader from Forbes CanAssist thanked Grant and Maz for the incredible work they had put into the event.
CanAssist supports members of our community who are going through cancer treatment, and it does rely completely on donations.
Vee Vian Higgins with Giselle and
Tractor trekkers return to road
It looks like the Fergie tractor boys from Parkes are at it again with another fundraiser for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.
In 2023 the group took eight 70-year-old Ferguson TEA 20 tractors on a 600km journey out of Bourke over six days to raise almost $40,000 for prostate cancer awareness.
It seems they had so much fun that they’ve upped the ante and are heading o again.
“We decided that if we lied our game a bit we could aim high and try to reach $100,000 this time!” Laughed organiser Richard Je eray.
Between him, Brenton Trainor and Lindsay Wall they decided on Bourke to Birdsville for this year’s trek with the plan (weather permitting) to travel through Louth and Wanaaring, then further west to Tibooburra and Innamincka, then north to Birdsville.
The planned route is just over 1200km, and with 12 days allocated to the trek and plenty of unsealed roads, there’ll no doubt be some sore bums and weary bodies a er an average of 100km per day.
Some of the team, Troy Parker, Mitch Je eray, Lindsay
are ready to get rolling in this year’s tractor trek. INSET: Scan the QR code to donate.
charity that helps to promote the fundraiser through my business as well.”
Closer to the cause though is Richard’s dad Dick Je eray who has survived his own battle with prostate cancer and knows all too well the value of support.
He’s still undergoing treatment but hopes to make the trek as part of the support crew.
Incredibly with more than two months still to go until they start their engines, the team has already raised $83,122 and counting.
Richard’s fundraising was recently supercharged by a charity auction at the Tyrepower International Conference, pulling in over $150,000 for prostate cancer research and support.
As you can imagine, there’s no comfort in a 70-year-old tractor, but by all accounts the mechanics in the crew have been working tirelessly to have them running the best they can at a little over 20km/h.
between August 11 and 22 includes Richard Je eray, Lindsay Wall, Brenton Trainor, Rodney Barnes, Mitch Je eray, Dave O’Grady, Troy Parker, Al O’Grady and Daniel McIntyre.
The team of nine embarking on this epic journey
Most thankfully are mechanics and the rest are pret
ty capable, so they’re prepared for most things given their experience from 2023. There’ll be a small support team to help feed the crew and handle any mishaps, and with the route being so remote, the boys will all be sleeping rough in swags by
the side of the roads.
“Whenever we can we always try to support any local towns for meals and the occasional beer – just to be sociable,“ Richard laughed.
“With Tyrepower having the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia as its major
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the response so far and look forward to hitting the road again,” Richard said. For those wanting to help out with sponsorship or donations you can talk to Richard at Tyrepower in Parkes or any of the other drivers too. Or if you would like to make a donation, large or small you can follow the link fundraise.pcfa.org.au/tractortrek or scan the QR code available.
Yellow ribbon shows our councils are road safety leaders
Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils are the first NSW local governments to become Yellow Ribbon Road Safety Councils.
It’s all in partnership with the Safer Australian Roads And Highways (SARAH) Group, who together have signed an Memorandum of Understanding, committing to working together to improve road safety across the region.
The SARAH Group was founded by Peter Frazer OAM, whose 23-year-old daughter Sarah was killed by a distracted truck driver on the Hume Freeway in 2012.
Mr Frazer established National Road Safety Week
the following year, which is now recognised annually by federal, state and local governments across Australia.
The SARAH Group seeks to improve road safety outcomes through policy development, community education, advocacy and collaboration with community and government organisations.
SARAH Group President Peter Frazer said the SARAH Group’s intention is to use their policy and road safety advocacy skills to help the councils identify and lobby for improved road safety outcomes within their and surrounding LGAs.
“Safer Australian Roads And Highways is extremely excited to be working with
the Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils because of their proven and dedicated commitment to improving road safety, not only for their locals, but for all who travel through their communities,” Mr Frazer said. “Given that two thirds of NSW’s death and serious
injuries occur in our regional communities, it is more important than ever to improve our roads and how we use them to get everyone home safe.
“I couldn’t be prouder of each of these Yellow Ribbon Road Safety Councils and I thank them sincerely for their great leadership.”
This year’s National Road Safety Week highlights the impact of road trauma and how to reduce it.
During the week road users have been encouraged to take the pledge to “Drive So Others Survive” - including not being distracted
for Semester 2, 2025
while driving, not speeding and to never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
The three councils have recognised National Road Safety Week with staff wearing yellow lapel ribbons, displaying yellow ribbon stickers on fleet vehicles, hosting staff information sessions about mobile phones and driving, lighting up Forbes Town Hall in yellow and more.
Lapel ribbons and vehicle stickers are available for free for the community to collect from the councils’ administration offices. You can sign the pledge to “Drive So Others Survive” online at www.roadsafetyweek.com.au
Wall, Brenton Trainor, Richard Je eray, Al O’Grady and Dick Je eray,
PHOTO: Supplied
Connecting communities
National Week a time to celebrate the contribution of our invaluable volunteers
St Vincent de Paul Society NSW is recognising National Volunteer Week as an opportunity to celebrate the immense contribution made by its members and volunteers.
The theme of this year’s National Volunteer Week is ‘Connecting Communities’.
St Vincent de Paul Society NSW has a presence in close to 400 communities throughout NSW, providing volunteering opportunities through Vinnies Shops, specialist services and o ering assistance to people facing hardship through its members.
This impact is made possible thanks to the e orts of:
6,300 volunteers supporting Vinnies Shops
1,700 volunteers giving their time at Vinnies services and programs
4,200 members based in local communities
“We’re able to positively impact so many lives each year because of the dedication and generosity of our members and volunteers,” Kelly Morgan, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW West Regional Director, said.
“This level of support is only possible because of our members and volunteers.
“Across the West region, our members have supported 8,500 people over the last year, providing $775,000 in nancial and material assistance.
“Our volunteers give so much of themselves to support local communities, but they also gain a lot from the experience by building connections and developing skills for the greater good.
whether it’s as a member, volunteering at a shop or service, there’s a place for you here,” said Ms Morgan.
along with millions more who informally give back to their communities.
“We’re always on the lookout for people who want to give back and join the Vinnies NSW community –
There’s a role for everyone
National Volunteer Week, 19 to 25 May, is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering.
This special event provides an opportunity to highlight the important role of volunteers in our community and invites people not currently volunteering to give it a go.
National Volunteer Week 2025 will celebrate the power of volunteering to bring people together with the theme ‘Connecting Communities’.
Volunteering creates lasting relationships that enrich lives and strengthen communities.
National Volunteer Week explores how giving to others fosters community engagement, connection and belonging.
Volunteering Australia is encouraging people across the country to acknowledge the spirit of connection and the incredible impact volunteers have in building inclusive and ourishing communities.
As the cost-of-living crisis bites, volunteers are vital in supporting our communities and helping those who are struggling in the challenging economic climate.
The wellbeing bene ts of volunteering are also particularly important in challenging times.
According to a report released last year by Volunteering Australia, unmet demand for volunteers in sectors tra-
ditionally supported by the volunteering community has increased due to the ongoing impacts of the cost-of-living crisis.
People are nding it difcult to prioritise volunteering, or a ord the potential costs associated, such as transport or fuel.
Volunteering Australia says a quarter (26 per cent) of young people say they don’t volunteer due to nancial reasons, while just over half (54 per cent) of volunteers say they’ve incurred out-ofpocket expenses from volunteering.
Formal volunteering, where people volunteer through organisations, has gradually declined over the past 10 years as well but is still highest among people aged 40-54 years.
Informal volunteering, where people volunteer directly in the community, is signi cantly more common among people aged 25-39 years, and rates of online –or remote – volunteering has continued to grow in recent years, says Volunteering Australia.
CEO of Volunteering Australia Mark Pearce says people in Australia are already volunteering for a wide variety of organisations, from sport and recreation to environment and animal welfare.
“Getting involved in volunteering can be as simple as sharing your expertise and
interests, helping out in your local community, or drawing on your lived experience to support others,” Mr Pearce said.
“There really is a volunteer role for everyone.
“We have every reason to be optimistic despite the challenges being faced.
“We know volunteering helps people to maintain social connections and gives people a powerful sense of purpose.
“In coming together to create a thriving and e ective volunteering ecosystem, volunteers are maintaining social cohesion and helping others who are struggling.”
People looking to start volunteering are encouraged to visit the GoVolunteer website, contact their state’s volunteering peak body - in this case it’s The Centre for Volunteering (NSW), www. volunteering.com.au, call 9261 3600 or email info@ volunteering.com.au - or approach organisations in their local community.
Volunteering Australia is the national peak body for volunteering, working to advance volunteering in the Australian community.
It works collectively with the seven state and territory volunteering peak bodies to support volunteers across Australia.
For more information people can visit volunteeringaustralia.org
According to Volunteering Australia, over six million Australians spend time volunteering across the nation,
Research conducted by Volunteering Australia also found improved self-assessed psychological wellbeing, self-esteem, happiness, and satisfaction with life for people who volunteer.
Learn more about volunteering with the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW at: www. vinnies.org.au or drop in to our local Vinnies store and chat to volunteers there.
6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Call The Midwife. 2.30 MSO Beethoven’s Ninth. 3.40 Spicks And Specks. 4.10 The Piano. 5.10 Landline. 5.40 Australian Story. 6.10 Father Brown. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Call The Midwife. 8.30 Midsomer Murders. 10.00 Bergerac. 10.45 Reunion. 11.50 Rage.
6.00 Shopping. 8.30 Better Homes. 11.00 Harry’s Practice. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Horse Racing. Sporting Chance Cancer Foundation Raceday, Sandown Saturday and Doomben Cup Day. 3.30 Medical Emergency. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 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. 2.15 ER. 3.00 Doctor
4.35 MythBusters. 5.30 George
House, New Home. 6.15 Phil
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Motorway Patrol. 12.30 Football. AFL. Carlton v GWS Giants. 3.30 Horse Racing. Sporting Chance Cancer Foundation Raceday, Sandown Saturday and Doomben Cup 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: The Lost World: Jurassic Park. (1997) 10.35 MOVIE: Con Air. (1997) 12.55 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Motor Racing. NDRC Top Doorslammer. H’lights. 4.00 Storage Wars: Barry’s Best Buys. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 Aussie Salvage Squad. 8.30 Mega Mechanics. 9.30 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 10.30 When Big Things Go Wrong. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Kids’
Sleepless. (2017) 12.35 Tipping Point. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 2.00 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Are You Being Served? 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: Alive And Kicking. (1958) 5.30 The Travelling Auctioneers. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Find My Country House Australia. New. 8.30 MOVIE: My Sister’s Keeper. (2009) 10.45 MOVIE: The Rebound. (2009) 12.45 Late Programs. 6.00 Get Clever. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 Code Black. 3.00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success. 4.00 The Goldbergs. 4.30 Frogger. 5.30 The Amazing Race. 7.00 MOVIE: The Karate Kid Part II. (1986) 9.30 MOVIE: Atomic Blonde. (2017) 12.00 MOVIE: Little Jungle Boy. (1969) 1.20
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 Find My Country House Australia. 1.00 Great Australian Detour. 1.30 Young Sheldon. 2.00 The Floor. 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 Holiday Home Makeover With Rachel & Ryan. 8.30 MOVIE: Skyfall. (2012) Daniel Craig, Judi Dench, Javier Bardem. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success. 12.00 A Moveable Feast. 12.30 Dream Home. 2.15 Zumbo’s Just Desserts. 3.15 Starstruck. 4.25 Dodger. 5.25 MOVIE: A Dog’s Purpose. (2017) 7.30 MOVIE: Pitch Perfect. (2012) 10.00 MOVIE: Blockers. (2018) 12.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.10 Everyday Gourmet. 12.30 The Yes Experiment. 1.00 Roads Less Travelled. 1.30 What’s Up Down Under. 2.00 Buy To Build. 2.30 Food Trail: South Africa. 3.00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 3.30 Farm To Fork. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 GCBC. 5.00 News. 6.30 The Dog House Australia. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. 8.40 House
Agent. 7.05 Hard Quiz. 7.35 QI. 8.05 Dave Hughes: Ridiculous. 9.10 Gavin & Stacey. Final. 9.40 The IT Crowd. 10.30 ER. 11.15 Rage. 12.15 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Cycling. UCI ProSeries. Tour of Hungary. H’lights.
Rocket Club. 7.30 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.10 Chopped Jnr. 8.50 The Piano. 9.50 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.35 Dragon Ball Super. 10.55 Late Programs.
AFL Pre-Game. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 11. Melbourne v Sydney. 6.00 The Wash Up. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: Jason Bourne. (2016) 11.00 MOVIE: 2.22. (2017) 1.05 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 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. Final. 2.00 Adelaide Equestrian Festival. 3.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 12. New Zealand Warriors v Canberra Raiders. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Travel Guides. 8.10 60 Minutes. 9.10 The Killer Interview With Piers Morgan. 10.10 9News Late. 10.40 See No Evil. 11.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Explore. 11.15 MOVIE: Champagne Charlie. (1944) 1.30 MOVIE: The Magic Box. (1951) 3.45 MOVIE: Hawaii. (1966) 7.00 Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. Round 15. Western Force v NSW Waratahs. 9.30 Super Rugby Pacific PostMatch. 9.45 MOVIE: Mad Max: Fury Road. (2015) 12.10 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Pooches At Play. 11.00 My Market Kitchen. 11.30 Roads Less Travelled. 12.00 MasterChef Australia. 1.10 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield. 1.30 Cook With Luke. 2.00 Good Chef Bad Chef. 2.30 All 4 Adventure. 3.30 Farm
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.05 ER. 2.50 Doctor Who. 3.40 A Bite To Eat. 4.05 Would I Lie To You? 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 George Clarke’s Old House, New Home. 6.15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 7.05 Hard Quiz. 7.35 QI. 8.05 Lucy Worsley Investigates. 9.00 Planet America: Weekend Edition. 9.45 Offsiders.
4.20 Dino Dex. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Daniel Tiger’s. 5.30 Peter Rabbit. 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. 10.00 AFL Sunday Footy Show. 12.00 My Favorite Martian. 12.30 Getaway. 1.00 Edgar Wallace Mysteries. 2.20 MOVIE: Contraband Spain. (1955) 4.05 MOVIE: Comanche. (1956) 6.00 M*A*S*H. 6.30 French Open Tennis Pre-Show. 7.00 Tennis. French Open. Day 1. 12.00 Late Programs. 6.00 Get Clever. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Kitty Is Not A Cat. 10.00 Dream Home. 12.00 Zumbo’s Just Desserts. 1.00 Starstruck. 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: SVU. 10.30 Bones. 12.30 Lie To Me. 1.30 Late Programs.
TAURUS (April
(June 21 to July 22) Unsettling news creates a difficult but not impossible situation. Continue to follow your planned routine, but keep your mind open to a possible change down the line. LEO (July 23 to August 22) Lick your wounded pride if you
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
1 What is a large New World vulture called (6)
7 Name a spine-bearing mammal (8)
8 Which skin marking is difficult to remove (6)
9 Name a region in Croatia along the east coast of the Adriatic (8)
10 What is a trite, stereotyped expression (6)
11 Which term describes malicious injury to work, tools, etc (8)
14 Which people rob houses (8)
18 What is a pendent tapering mass of ice (6)
19 Name an alternative term for marriage (8)
21 Which colour lies between blue and violet in the spectrum (6)
22 Which ocean lies to the west of southern Africa (8)
23 Name another term for summits (6)
DOWN
1 What is an underground cemetery called (8)
2 To discover a presence, is to do what (6)
3 What was the former name of Zimbabwe (8)
5 Which term describes one who possesses mere book learning without practical wisdom (6)
6 Which day follows Christmas Day (6)
12 Name an early Roman large rectangular building, used as a meeting place (8)
13 What do we call sovereigns of empires (8)
16 To be spherical, is to be what (6)
17 What, in golf, is a score of one stroke under par on a hole (6)
20 Name the area on which a building is to be situated (4)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
TENACIOUS (a) Attractive (b) Holding fast (c) Pertaining to time
E-QUATIONS 7
4 What is a false god, as of a heathen people (4)
15 What are emotional disturbances (6)
Letters have a number value
Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
E-QUATIONS
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
2 VOLANT (a) Flying (b) Willing (c) Erupting
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:
Box for holy objects (3)
Chart again (5)
December (abb) (3)
Demonstrations (abb) (5) Of the femur (7)
Salt (Latin) (3)
Similar sounding word (7)
Sodium borate (5)
Steal (3)
Water course (5)
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
Positive feedback for Homegrown
By MARG APPLEBEE CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE
Thank you to those of you who responded to our request for feedback for our April 2025 Homegrown Parkes event.
We try to factor in your suggestions moving forward, particularly around demonstrations, workshops, educational opportunities and stallholder suggestions.
We don’t rate our events on the number of stallholders.
We rate the event on the quality of the event.
It is really important that we maintain a standard that focusses on promoting local and regional small businesses, not for pro ts etc. Bigger is not necessarily better … and not our goal.
for the event, was 7.6 out of 10.
rated 7.6 and the mix of stallholders was rated at 7.3.
CATTLE SALE
Monday, 19 May
Yarding 1215 (up 1)
Numbers remained similar to last week with 1215 cattle yarded.
Quality was mixed with mostly lightweight cattle yarded suitable for feeders and restockers, along with a few pens of well nished cattle.
Most of the regular buyers were operating.
Young cattle to the trade were rm, prime yearling steers selling from 325c to 380c and prime yearling heifers, 320c to 366c/kg.
Feeder weights were also around rm steers selling from 325c to
Overwhelmingly the feedback told us that they would attend a future event.
who were returning a er several events. Of the stallholder/food
vendor responses the event was rated 8.76 out of 10, with 9.2 for location and spacing, 94% would de nitely return.
We will be sharing the names of the three winners from our survey responses on Friday via our social media.
Central West Lachlan Landcare have committed to delivering Homegrown Parkes events until June 2028.
This is run for people in our local area … and we are hoping to be in the position to be making Homegrown Parkes as a destination event for our region.
Apart from a part-time contribution from my role, we are supported by volunteers from our Landcare committee, volunteers from the Parkes Community Arts committee and with support from Parkes Shire Council.
425c, and heifers, 280c to 374c/kg.
Prime grown cattle were slightly cheaper, heavy steers sold from 250c to 340c, and heavy heifers, 268c to 355c/kg.
Cows li ed 5c, 2 and 3 scores sold from 124c to 264c, and heavy prime cows, 260c to 280c/kg.
Heavy bulls sold to 285c/kg.
SHEEP SALE
Tuesday, 20 May
Yarding 42,850 (up 4200)
Numbers li ed this sale with agents yarding 42,850 head.
Lamb numbers remained steady with
30,350 on o er.
Quality was once again mixed with some good lines of nished trade and heavyweights penned along with the secondary types.
There was an extra buyers present and competing in a dearer market.
Light lambs back to the paddock sold from $147 to $176/head.
Trade weight lambs were $5 to $10 better with the 20- 24kg selling from $176 to $225/ head.
Heavy lambs to 26kg received from $225 to $258/head.
Extra heavyweights were also $10 better
selling from $235 to $337/head.
Carcase prices averaged from 865 to 918c/ kg.
The best heavy hoggets reached $213/ head.
Mutton numbers increased to 12,500 and quality continues to be very mixed.
Prices were again strong with Merino ewes selling from $107 to $233/head.
Crossbreds ranged from $105 to $235 with Dorper ewes selling from $112 to $225/ head.
Merino wethers reached $166/head.
FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVESTOCK
5.
REPORTING AGENCY
PIG SALE
Friday, 16 May
A lighter yarding of sows saw prices drop 10-20c per kg.
No boars were yarded today. Bacon numbers li ed slightly, prices were rm on last fortnight.
Pork numbers dropped on the previous sale and prices improved by $10 to $15 per head.
Suckers numbers also reduced this sale, as did quality.
Prices for better, lighter suckers remained rm.
FROM VC REID SMITH LIVESTOCK
We look forward to sharing more details in the months ahead.
Homegrown Parkes events are supported by volunteers from our committee, volunteers from Central West Lachlan Landcare, Parkes Community Arts committee and with in-kind support from Parkes Shire Council. For further information on this article, please go to www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org, twitter, facebook or Instagram @cwllandcare
We are also thrilled to have a nancial contribution of support from Evolution Northparkes Mine through the Community Investment Program, that will support some of the additional inclusions and entertainment on the day. We already have a dra program for our next event and are pleased to be welcoming attendees for the Keep Australia Beautiful Tidy Towns State Awards to our event as well.
forbeslivestock.com.au
Email us info@forbeslivestock.com.au Phone us 02 6852 2299
Numbers li ed this sale with agents yarding 42,850 head. Lamb numbers remained steady with 30,350 on o er.
PHOTO: File
PHOTO: Supplied
Kross, Piper in epic five-setter
SQUASH
By DROP SHOT
Results of Wednesday May 14, week three of the Autumn squash comp. Team places: Hardys lead, Markworts, Jones and Cogswells follow in that order.
Highlight matches: Shane Moxey hit 19 points to Bella Henry’s 17 in a big rst set but Bella was in form and went on to win the next three sets 15,15,18 to Shane’s 10, 13, 16. Harry Bilsborough and Lucy Robinson lled the score sheet with ve electric sets the third being a huge 20 points to 18 but by the h Lucy soared ahead to win the ordeal 15-6. Great match!
Court one: Hardys v Cogswells 12 to 23. Marcus v Christine 1-6, Josh Haley v Ellie Cowhan 6-1, Lindy Cowhan v Bec Jones 2-5 and Nate Markwort v Luke Bilsborough 1-6.
Court two: Markworts v Jones 22 to 13. Sub B Jones v Cooper 1-6, sub J Haley v Hunter Bilsborough 6-1, Lucas Jones v Noah Brown 6-1 and Beth Cannon v sub S Moxey 6-1.
Thursday evening
Team places: Millers have an early lead, then it’s Dawes, Pipers, J Krosses, H Krosses and Jones.
Highlights: Mates and rivals Jay Kross and Darryn Piper wowed the crowd for ve fabulous sets. Hot shots galore with an extra long rst set 19 points to 21, how do they do it folks? Oh, by the way, Darryn won the nal set 15-8.
And Weivan Huang showed us how to run em down while Garry Dempsey showed us how to put em away in a very entertaining, big ve setter. Their scores, 15-7, 17-19, 18-16, 8-15 tell
the story and Weivan won the nal set 1510.
Court one; Dawes v Jones 23 points to 26.
Ollie v Max 5-2, Jake Shaw v Regan Acret 2-5, Bren Allegri v Mark Webb 6-1, Scott Webb v Sandy Paterson 1-6, Alex Bayley v John Ridley 2-5, Tony Trotter v sub Freck 1-6 and T J Markwort v Henry Willis 6-1.
Court two: J Kroses v Pipers 22 to 20.
Shanna Nock v Lockie Jones 3-4, Tim Coombs and Pete Cowhan had a see saw, showdown match. Tim won set one 15-8 and ve sets later Pete won 15-11. Adam Chudleigh and Steve Allegri v Brett Thomas and Oliver Paterson 6-1. And Ken Bryant v Kimberley Chudleigh 1-6.
Court three: H Krosses v Millers 19 to 29. Henry v Lockie 5-2, Jono Cannon v Dan Bayley 1-6, sub B Thomas v Max Ridley 1-6, Claire Bayley v Dennis Haynes 1-6 and Deb Bryant v Tim Welsh 1-6. This week’s draw: Team 1 v 4, 2 v 6, 3 v 5 both nights.
Joliffe in winning form at croquet
Aussie Croquet was played on Saturday 17 May 2025 with 22 players in attendance. It was a cool start but soon warmed up.
All three games were won by one player only that being Noel Jolli e. Well done Noel. On the day runaway scores were recorded by Elvy Quirk & Russell Anderson who defeated Kevin Rubie & Neil Ri-
Further runaway scores of 14/8 were recorded by Elvy Quirk & Barry White who defeated Harley Stewart & Kevin Rubie whilst a further 14/8 score was also recorded by Kevin Wenning (Solo) who defeated Russell Anderson.
14/10 scores on the day were Cheryl Toohey & Allan Jones def Irene Riley & Robin Pols, John Farah & May Jones def Irene Riley & Lyn Simmonds, Noel Jolli e & John Farah def Barry White & Harley Stewart, Allan Jones & Robin Pols def Marie Spry & Neil Riley, Noel Jolli e & Kevin Rubie def Lyn Simmonds & Allan Jones, John Browne & Jones def Marie Spry & Robin Pols, John Farah & Irene Riley Def Cheryl Toohey; 14/11 scores recorded by Kevin Rubie def Elvy Quirk & John Browne, David West (solo) def Sally Perry (solo); 14/12 scores as follows: Kevin Wenning & Marie Spry def David West & Frank Donohoe, John Browne & Peter West def John Farah & Frank
Classifieds
Donohoe, Russell Anderson & Noel Jolli e def Sally Perry & Neil Riley, Cheryl Toohey & David West def Sally Perry & Fay Picker, Harley Stewart & Frank Donohoe def Kevin Wenning & Barry White; 14/13 close score was recorded by Fay Picker who defeated May Jones 14/13.
Golf Croquet was played on Tuesday 20 May, with 29 in attendance. I am not sure whether the cold weather is keeping them away or whether there are better things to do.
Three games on the day were won by John Browne, Graham Falconer, Elvy Quirk, Kevin Rubie and Peter West. I am told that Graham Falconer played incredible croquet on the day. Well done to all those players.
Scores on the day, a runaway score by Irene Riley & Peter West who defeated Marie Spry & Margaret Dent 10/3; 9/4 score recorded by John Browne & Ray Martin def John Farah & Robin Pols; 8/5 scores were as follows: John Browne & Graham Falconer def Mal Smith & Fay Picker, Kevin Rubie & Robin Pols def Irene Riley & John Farah, Sue Jolli e & Peter West def Fay Picker & Colleen Liebich, Neil Riley & Ray Burridge def Kevin Wenning & Russell Anderson, Elvy Quirk & Bill Scott def Mal Smith & May Jones, Lyall Strudwick & Noel Jolli e def Frank Donohoe & Wayne Wright, Graham
Falconer & Lyall Strudwick def May Jones & Colleen Liebich, Kevin Wenning & Mal Smith def Sue Jolli e & Russell Anderson, Rex Toole & Noel Jolli e def Vince Roberts & Ray Martin, Elvy Quirk & John Browne def Robin Pols & Geo Coles.
Close scores of 7/6 were played by the following: Geo Coles (solo) def Irene Riley (solo), Elvy Quirk & Marie Spry def Noel Jolli e & Belinda Facey, Colleen Liebich & Wayne Wright def Frank Donohoe & Lyall Strudwick, Bill Scott (solo) def Margaret Dent & May Jones, Vince Roberts & Peter West def Kevin Wenning & Russell Anderson, Ray Martin & Ray Burridge def Rex Toole & Sue Jolli e, Kevin Rubie & Graham Falconer def Geo Coles & Marie Spry, Vince Roberts & Rex Toole def Margaret Dent & Irene Riley, Kevin Rubie & Wayne Wright def Bill Scott & Ray Burridge, Frank Donohoe & John Farah def Neil Riley & Fay Picker.
Our bi-monthly luncheon will be on 3 June at the Post O ce Hotel and the sheets are out for those who wish to attend to choose their meal. Croquet is a game of skill and judgement, good for hand and eye co-ordination and a level of gentle exercise. Young and old can play the game. Should you like to join a social club further enquiries 0428540272.
By ELVY QUIRK
~FUNERAL NOTICE~ MARTIN, William Rodgers “Johnny”. Aged 88 years. Of Wandary Lane, Forbes. Loving husband of Jan. Father of Susan, Jennie, Richard and Sally and father-in-law to Chris, Lachy and Katie. Grandfather of Harriet, William and James Glenn; Ella and Duncan Butler; Frances, Lilly and Anna Martin.
Johnny’s Mass of Thanksgiving was held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.
MICHAEL HANLEY’S FAMILY Independent Funerals and Cremations Services of Forbes, Parkes and District 02 6852 1961 ALL HOURS
Morrison wins golf Memorial
MEN’S GOLF
By SHORT PUTT
The Forbes golfers revelled in the delightful conditions as they vied for supremacy in their golfing endeavours. Such was the intensity of the competition that count backs were needed across the board to decide the winners.
On Saturday, the golf competition was an Individual Stableford Medley, with players vying for the ‘Kristie Carpenter Perpetual Trophy’ sponsored by Terry Griffiths and Veronica Rebellato.
The field comprised 74 players with 16 ladies and 58 men competing.
The competition was very keen with the eventual leaders only marginally ahead of a ‘posse’ of contending followers.
The overall winner of the ‘Kristie Carpenter Memorial Trophy’ was Nick J Morrison with 38 points. It was a close thing as he got there on count back from Matt Duff.
Nick had a handicap scoring back-9 while Matt lost his mojo on the back-9 where his 1-pointer on the 15th proved the difference.
The Div-1 was won by Jono Roylance with 37 points. He welcomed this rare opportunity to get a game in and surprised himself with his steady play.
A steady 19 points on the front-9 had him in a good mood for the back-9 where he played to his handicap despite a ‘miss’ on the 11th hole. His best holes were birdies on the 5th and the 15th holes.
Div-1 runner-up was Wayne O’Neill with 34 points. His spot was not assured as he needed a count back to ward off two other players but a succession of 3-pointers late in the back9 gave him the nod. He also birdied the 15th but a double bogey on the last clipped his wings for the winner’s spot.
The Div-2 players were likewise earnestly competitive. The winner was Nick J Morrison with his 38 points, but he scraped in on count back. He had one ‘miss’ on his card but otherwise played steady golf with a 21-17 split, scoring well on the par-5’s just like the PGA Pros.
In the Div-2 runner-up spot was Matt Duff, also on 38 points. He had an outstanding front-9 with 24 points and only one 1-pointer. But his back-9 let him down.
A steady start for the first two holes was marred by ‘misses’ on the next two and a single point on the 15th. But at least he took some delight away with an eagle on the 6th hole where he used a chip-in to seal the deal.
The Ladies Division was won by Jenny Hubbard with 37 points. Her scorecard had numbers all over the place but there were two standout
4-pointers recorded on the 3rd and 18th.
The Ladies runner-up was Jean Judge with 34 points. She also managed two 4-pointers but this time on the 12th and 18th holes. But too many 1-pointers spoilt her card and robbed her of victory.
The ball sweep went to 32 points on count back, going to: 36 – B Slack-Smith; 35 –B Chandler; 34 – J Banks, R Murray, C Banks, P Grayson, P Pymont; 33 – R Scott, D Tilley, H Callaghan, J Ridley, M Simmonds, A Dukes, A Rees, F Hanns, B Ashton; 32 – G Hooper, K Sanderson. The visitors included Rob Shannon (Bathurst) and six players from Parkes. The best of those was Wayne Powter (31 pts) but the others were near the tail end of the leader board.
The NTP’s went to: 9th –Ladies: S Crosby, Men: Alf Davies; 18th – Ladies: J Hubbard, Men: C Hanrahan. Neither of them managed to convert for a ‘2’. There were only four 2’s overall with the 3rd having a harvest by the Div-1 players and one on the 18th to Ev Uphill.
The 3rd hole Super-Pin went to Cam McMillan. He knocked off three other players as he joyfully went about his game later in the field. His shot to 206 cm was very acceptable in the slight breeze.
The eagle by Matt Duff on the 6th was certainly a highlight for his day. But consider the outstanding effort by Brad Ashton on the same hole when he scored a ‘2 for 5’.
Brad recorded a rare ‘albatross’ on the same hole. To
explain, that is scoring a ‘2’ on a par-5, three shots under par and earned him 5 points.
Brad managed to slide a lovely shaped drive around the corner, quite easy for a left-hander who produces a controlled fade.
That left him a steady wedge shot into the green which landed, bounced once then settled and rolled into the hole.
It was not the best of days for Brad. While he scored a 3-pointer on the previous hole, that followed a ‘miss’, which was preceded by a 3-pointer, which itself followed another ‘miss’. Yet he still managed 18 points for the front-9. His back-9 was less exciting and less enjoyable.
The 7th hole reluctantly yielded a birdie to Andrew Dukes to earn him a 4-pointer. But it lashed other golfers with numerous misses ‘recorded’.
The 15th chimed in with quite a few 8’s that earned zero points for their players. And both holes did not play favourites, snaring ladies and men alike.
Maybe this was the course’s way of saying ‘yes, I am in great condition but I am still not an easy beat!’.
On Sunday there was a field for the Sunday Stableford Medley. The numbers were bolstered by a group from Grenfell who enjoyed their day and the 19th.
The winner was Robert Ryan (Grenfell) with 38 points, with runner-up Dan Harveyson (Grenfell) with 32 points.
Their aim was not good as there was only one NTP. This went to Ben Abbott (Gren-
Championship, while the ladies play their Foursomes Championships.
Some sage advice to all players is to choose your partners well. You will want to hear the words uttered by the guard to the ‘Holy Grail’, “You have chosen wisely”.
Over recent weeks there have been a number of birthdays celebrated. A couple of those to revel in the festivities are Peter Barnes and Paul Kay. Congrats guys to making it this far and best wishes for the future. And congrats to the others who remain incognito by choice.
Only a month now to redeem your account credit at the Pro Shop. There is plenty in the shop to spend your good lucre on.
It is crystal ball time:
This Saturday 24 May, there will be an Individual Stroke event, sponsored by B&C Automotive’.
And Sunday has the usual Stableford Medley comp but also the Condobolin Men’s Open.
VETS GOLF
fell).
The Forbes players could not score well and thus did not feature.
Here is the news:
On Sunday the second leg of the Mens ‘Trilogy of Golf’ was held at West Wyalong with the playing of their Mens Open. The interest in this competition resulted in over 100 players attending.
The prizes were spread among the players attending from the three clubs, but there was success for some of the Forbes players.
Steve Betland took out the Open and A-Grade Scratch with a sub-par round, while Harry Callaghan took out the A-Grade Handicap honours. Dave Quirk did not fire on every hole but he did snare the A-Grade NTP.
Unfortunately, the full results were not available before we went to print but will be posted on the Notice Board in the Pro Shop when they are available.
The final round will be played at Condobolin on Sun 25 May.
With keen interest in the ‘Trilogy’ prizes it promises to be a big event.
The Men’s ‘Wallace Cup’ Handicap Matchplay event has started with Brad Ashton having success over Dave Quirk in a close match.
The draw is on the notice board in the Pro Shop.
Have a look and arrange your matches as soon as you can.
Looking ahead to June, there are a number of partnered Championships to be played.
The Men play their 4BBB Stroke Championships as well as their Foursomes
needed for the count-back winning with 27. Third home and two shots further back was Peter Scholfield. Tuesday golf is for everyone, ball toss at 9am. See you there.
LADIES GOLF
Good scores were the order of the day last Wednesday. The event was an Individual Stableford sponsored by Shell.
Well done to Margaret Woodburn who scored 36 points to defeat Colleen Bratton on a countback. There were quite a few with scores not far behind.
Balls went to Colleen Bratton to 36.
NTP’s went to Jill Cripps on the 9th and Jean Judge on the 18th.
Numbers were a little down due to 11 ladies playing in the WDLGA Ladies Tournament at West Wyalong.
Forbes’ Barry Parker made it two competition wins in three days when he was won last week’s twin-towns veterans golf event played at Parkes.
In what was a disappointing field of 24, Parker followed on from his success in a 12-hole competition at Forbes on Tuesday to record an easy win on the Parkes layout.
He put together a great round of 42 points to finish six clear of Nym Dziuba from Parkes.
In the twin-towns shield Forbes had an easy win over Parkes by 214 points to 185.
Michael Lynch from Parkes picked up the encouragement award, while Mr Parker added to his prize haul winning the nearestto-pin on the 11th hole and Parkes’ Lyndsay Elliott the closest on the fourth hole.
The ball sweep went to 31 points with the winners as follows: 35 - Ken Walton, Les Little, Peter Barnes, Alan Rees and Kim Herbert from Forbes; 34 - Lyndsay Elliott; 31 - Robert Lea and John Fowler (P) and Steve Edwards (F).
This week Parkes and Forbes golfers travel to West Wyalong for the May monthly Lachlan Valley veterans competition.
Two of the strongest supporters of vets golf in twin towns and beyond went at it like heavy weight boxers during last Tuesday’s social 12 holes event here in Forbes where it was the ageless Barry ‘Scadger’ Parker getting the chocolates over president Peter Barnes who was fully relaxed after the successful Week of Golf.
Trading shot for shot it came down to the last three holes where Mr Parker picked up the two points
West Wyalong ran a very good tournament with each day running freely avoiding finishes in the dark. There were 174 ladies competing each day over the three days.
Tuesday and Wednesday were Stroke for Division 1 and 2 and Stableford for Division 3 and 4, while Thursday’s competition was a Foursomes.
Only Rose Carroll, who played very well, was on the winners list with a 4th placing in Division 4, 36 holes Stableford.
Sally and Sarah narrowly missed a place in the Foursomes division 2 handicap with a score of 70.5 avoiding the honour of winning the aprons.
Winners of the aprons were Lindy and Rose. Next year the WDLGA Tournament will be held in Forbes.
Last Saturday was the Kristie Carpenter Perpetual Trophy sponsored by Veronica Rebellato and Terry Griffiths.
Fittingly, the winner of the ladies was Jenny Hubbard who is just back from America with a well compiled 37 points.
Jean Judge was runner-up with 34 points.
NTP’s went to Sally Crosby on the 9th and Jenny Hubbard on the18th. Debbie Tilley won a ball.
The Pennants team has travelled to Cobar to play their first round on Friday May 23.
Saturday May 24 is an American Foursomes, sponsored by Jenny Fletcher and Nicole Death.
Wednesday May 28 is an Individual Stableford, draw for partners after play, sponsored by Jill Morgan. It is also Cake Day which means a shotgun start. Trundle Tournament is on May 25, Cowra 11,12,13 June, Cumnock 15 June and Dubbo 22 June.
SSAA news: Four perfect scores in bear target event
SPORTING SHOOTERS
By TONY BRATTON
Members are reminded that the by-monthly meeting for June 2025 will be held at the Forbes Sport and Rec Club on Wednesday 11 June starting at 8pm.
Results of the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre rim re ri e shoot on Sunday 18 May 2025.
The results of the 100metre Bear target shoot were: Brian Neilsen, 120/120; John Dean, 120/120; Steve Hindmarch, 120/120; Joshua Knight, 120/120; Daniel Martin, 118/120; Terry Knight, 116/120; John Gorman, 115/120; Rebecca Knight,111/120; Anthony Bratton, 110/120; Bruce Dent, 109/120; Norm Brook,103/120; Ernie Shankelton, 96/120; Walter Wiyepe,70/120; Barbara Brook, 69/120, and Mia Condon and Chriss Parris shot
practice only.
75m Rabbit target: John Dean, 116/120; Rebecca Knight,116/120; John Gorman, 112/120; Terry Knight, 110/120; Joshua Knight, 109/120; Daniel Martin, 108/120; Steve Hindmarch, 104/120; Bruce Dent, 102/120; Anthony Bratton, 102/120; Brian Neilsen, 101/120; Norm Brook, 93/120; Chriss Parris, 82/120; Barbara Brook, 82/120; Ernie Shankelton, 66/120; Mia Condon, 57/120 and Walter Wiyepe,70/120 and Edward Hampton shot practice only.
50metre Blow y target: John Gorman, 250/250; Bruce Dent, 246/250; Terry Knight,246/250; Rebecca Knight, 246/250; Daniel Martin, 245/250; John Dean, 243/250; Steve Hindmarch, 242/250; Simon Fazzari, 241/250; Joshua Knight, 241/250; Anthony Bratton, 238/250; Ernie
Shankelton, 228/250; Norm Brook, 224/250; Barbara Brook, 220/250; Chriss Parris, 201/250; Mia Condon, 176/250 and Walter Wiyepe shot practice only.
25metre Fox target: John Gorman, 280/280; Terry Knight,280/280; Bruce Dent, 279/280; Joshua Knight, 278/280; Steve Hindmarch, 277/280; Rebecca Knight, 277/280; John Dean, 274/280; Daniel Martin, 274/280; Norm Brook, 273/280; Barbara Brook, 272/280; Chriss Parris, 269/280; Anthony Bratton, 269/280; Mia Condon, 240/28; Ernie Shankelton, 183/280; Walter Wiyepe, 167/280 and Simon Fazzari, 241/280.
The weather was sunny and cold with a light breeze from the north east at 3kph and a temperature of 18 degrees.
The range o cers were: Anthony Bratton, Norm
Brook, Mia Condon and Chriss Parris.
Scorers were: Steve Hindmarch and John Dean.
The Centre- re ri e shoot was held a er the Rim- re shoot. There were nine members in attendance: Steve Hindmarch, Chriss Parris, Ernie Shankelton, Simon Fazzari, Stephen Pietsch, Damien White, Charlotte White, Norm Brook and Anthony Bratton.
The range o cers were: Norm Brook and Anthony Bratton.
The next S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre and other rim re ri e shoot (.22 magnum or.17HMR), The next Sunday shoot will be on Sunday 1 June starting at 10am.
The next Wednesday shoot will be on Wednesday 4 June 2025 starting at 2pm.
The Centre- re ri e shoots start at 2pm a er the Rim-
re shoots on Sunday, names in by 1.30pm so the targets can be placed on the Centrere range just a er 1.30pm.
All shoots are at the Bedgerebong road range, turn right o the Bedgerebong road onto Dr. Young Drive.
All target shooters are welcome to attend.
Any person wishing to try Rim- re or Centre- re ri e or shotgun shooting can attend any of these shoots to take part a er lling out a P650 form at the club, Juniors must be 12 years or over.
For all information on .22 calibre rim re shooting contact: Wayne Facey 0414524059; Norm Brook 0458664541; Ben Smith 0427524151; David Coleman 0427401263.
The next shoot for the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting clay’s will be their monthly shoot this Sunday 25 May 2025 starting at 10am. This
shoot will be a 100 target ve stand shoot.
For all information on clay target shooting contact: Norm Brook 0458664541; Ben Smith 0427524151; Tony Bratton (02) 68523349; Doug Davis (02) 68523249 or Phil Picker (02) 68516494.
Any person wishing to obtain a long arm rearm licence can contact Wayne Facey on 0414524059; Norm Brook on 0458664541; Tony Bratton on (02) 68523349 to do a rearm safe shooting assessment course which is a requirement for a licence application.
Members are reminded that Local Range rules apply to the Forbes SSAA range. SSAA members should check the face book page for for dates and times and cancellation of shoots due to wet weather, also check the local community radio station 2LVR 97.9 FM.
Nicholson in comeback win
BOWLS
By TARA SHAW CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS
Continuing the Minor singles draw for round 3, Cherie Vincent and Je Nicholson faced o on Thursday a ernoon.
Cherie starting o well leading 9-3 on 6, certainly had her head in the game. 16-3 on 10, Je certainly had his work cut out for him. Je slowly started to come back and picking up a 3 on the 14th de nitely helped.
Cherie got to 18-8 in front but Je clawed his way back as Cherie was kept at 18 for 9 ends when Je levelled 18 apiece.
Cherie just edging in front but Je answered on 29th end the board showed Cherie 24-22 until Je scored a 3 on the 25th to win the game 25-24.
Our last game to be played in Round 3 of Minor Singles was played between Ange Dwyer and Bobby Grant.
Bobby showing his experience and consistency led 11-1 on 5 when Ange picked up a 3 hoping to catch up as quick as she could.
Bobby taking the next 6 ends gaining a 4 and two 3’s, it was all over bar the shouting in 12 ends with Bobby taking the win 25-4.
Kicking o our Minor Pairs Games, newcomer to club championship bowls Phil Hocking paired with Laurie Crouch who is no stranger to club championship games. This showed when they played the well-oiled machine duo Paul Baker and John Cutler.
Phil and Laurie picking 3 fours in the rst 8 ends for a very handy lead of 16-3. Paul and John dug deep and took the next 3 adding 3 points to their score board 6-16. Phil and Laurie continued to nish strong winning 30-8.
Bert Bayley watches Mick Merritt bowl.
Our second Minor Pairs game was played between Ron Thurlow and Geo Brown drawing Lyall Strudwick and Scott McKellar.
A slow start for Ron and Geo with Lyall and Scott picking up a 4 on the 2nd, Ron and Geo answered the 4 on the 5th ends to nudge in front 7-6. Lyall and Scott scored a 5 which put them back in the lead 11-7. Picking up 1’s and 2’s along the way, Lyall and Scott just kept their noses in front 15-12, 15-14, 16-14. Gaining 7 points in the last 3 ends concreted the win for Lyall and Scott 27-15.
SOCIAL BOWLS
Wednesday – The phones were down again but that did not stop 28 from nominating for last Wednesday morning social bowls played in excellent outdoor weather conditions.
Was it a ‘hot marble’ or just luck? We’ll go for luck as club chief Je Nicholson skipped for Gail McKay to win the card draw a er a 25-10 win in 18 ends over Therese Davis and Peter MacKay leading comfortably 13-5 a er nine ends.
The ‘hot marble’ continued as runners-up were ‘chief’ Don Cra who skipped for Cheryl Hodges with another one-sided score 21-8 over 18 accounting for Colleen Liebich and Laurie Crouch. It was 16-5 a er 11.
Wednesday proved to be a day of quite a few one-sided games with Tim Everest and Barry Shine accounting for Anne Nixon and Lyall Strudwick 28-9 over 20 with few highlights by all four.
Next door Irene Riley and Noel Jolli e won 21-7 in 18 over Barry White and John Gorton leading 17-1 a er 10.
Geo Coles and Geo Williams, who played so brilliantly in the Major Singles nal keeping the good from going accounting for Angela Dent and Bill O’Connell 19-7 in 18.
Phil Hocking and Ross Williams were kept to 21-12 in 18 playing Ron Thurlow and Kerry Dunstan in control at 13-5 a er 10.
Eddie Gould and Peter Barnes combined well winning 27-11 in 22 over Sue Smith and Paul Doust. It was 15-8 at the end of 11. In-club
winners Angela Dent and Cheryl Hodges.
Thursday – 18 bowlers took to the greens to soak up that glorious sun and enjoy an afternoon of social bowls.
Terry Molloy and Wayne Burton drew Max Vincent and Viv Russell. Max and Viv were on re at the start of the game and led 10-1 on 7. Terry and Wayne started to nd their groove and trailed by 2 on 12, 9-11. Picking up multiples to hit the lead 1612 on 16, forging ahead to the nish line Terry and Wayne were the victors 25-17.
Our triples games was played between Bobby Grant leading for Cli Nelson and Bruce ‘Posso’ Jones teaming up to take on Ivan Hodges, Alan Hilder and Peter Hocking. Hocko’s team started well, taking the rst 4 ends until Posso’s team taking the next two. Hocko’s team leading 12-5 on 7 and didn’t look back. Sensing victory, Hocko’s team sprinted to the nish line 24-11.
Dave Mac from Pottsville called in again on his tours around the country to pair with Al Phillips against Phil
Hocking and Glen Kearney. 2 all a piece on 4 keeping things nice and friendly, 5 all on 8. This was shaping up to be a close game.
Phil and Glen took the lead and held onto it for 9 ends until Dave and Al fought back on 19th to level the score on 20. 13 a piece with two ends to go, Phil and Glen picked up two 1’s and won 15-13
Our last pairs game was played between Ange Dwyer and the Major Singles club Champion Brian ‘Spro’ Asimus when they took on Billy Cowell and Lyall Strudwick. Starting out close Billy and Lyall hit the front on 5 7-4. Winning the next 4 in a row certainly helped increase their gap 13-4. Digging deep and getting a few more runs on the board, Ange and Spro trailed by 1 on the 20th. Billy and Lyall gained a 5 on the 19th and took the gam 24-19.
Winning Rink – Ivan Hodges, Alan Hilder and Peter Hocking
Losing Rink – Ange Dwyer and Club Champ Spro
Resting Touchers – Viv Russell. Raspberry for wrong bias – Posso Jones and Terry Molloy.
Jackpot was $600 and it nally went o . Shared between 4 players on Rink 4, Dav Mac, Al Phillips, Phil Hocking and Gln Kearney.
Sunday – Five games of pairs were played on Sunday social morning bowls.
The Young Guns were the stars of the show on Rink 1, mates o the eld but on the greens it was de nitely game on.
Jax Murphy paired with his mum, Kelly Stringer to play his mate Jayden Hartwig and Jax’s dad Terry Murphy. 4 all on 5, Jax and Kelly hit the lead and went into half time 8-6 up. Jax and Kelly won 7 of the last 8 to win the game 21-8.
Michael Coles and Tara Shaw drew Terry Molloy and John Cutler. Michael and Tara picked up a 6 on the 5th to put them in the lead 8-3. Going into the break at 8 all but Terry and John come out with vengeance. Hitting the lead on 10th and taking the win only just in front 16-14.
Peter Greenhalgh lead for Viv Russell against Ross Williams and Sharka Staines. 5 all on 6, who was going to be in the lead at half time?
Peter and Viv led to the break 8-6. Ross and Sharka answered and starting closing the gap trailing by 1 on 14. Peter and Viv won the last two ends to win 16-10.
Joyce Gray and Peter Tisdell were too strong for Darryl Burley and Jason Howell. Joyce and Peter scored a 5 on the 3rd boosting their con dence and led comfortably at oranges 11-3, they then won 5 of the last 8 ends and overall score of 19-10.
Alan Hilder and Mick Merrit came up against Noel Hocking and Billy Cowell. Luck was not on Noel and Billy’s side on Sunday as Alan and Mick kept the scoreless for 11 ends.
Alan and Mick lead 14-3 and Noel and Billy scored a 4. It was a pretty tall ask to catch the leaders even scoring an additional 3, the nish line was too far out of reach. Alan and Mick won the gold 21-10.
Winning Rink – Joyce Gray and Peter Tisdell. Losing Rink – Noel Hocking and Billy Cowell.
Resting touchers: Mick Merritt and Terry Murphy. Raspberried: Alan Hilder Jackpot at $600 and was not won.
Chicken ra e winners: Ross Williams, Viv Russell, Ange Dwyer, Joyce Gray x 2, John Cutler, Dina Brown x 2 and Terry Molloy.
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
Platypi in central west’s winning country effort
Platypi donned representative colours in the men’s and women’s success in the NSW Country Rugby Union championships in Tamworth.
First grade player Jules Pinsac was named in the senior men’s side, and Alice Mattiske in the women’s, for the tournament.
Pinsac and the Blue Bulls side claimed the Richardson Shield - and was named central west’s best back in the end-of-tournament awards.
The Bulls had a loss and a draw on day one of the competition for the Caldwell Cup, then defeated New England in their final game of the tournament to win the second tier Richardson Shield.
Mahe Fangupo, now with Dubbo Roos, was player of the final.
Mattiske was on the women’s team that became back-to-back Thomson Cup champions with an unbeaten campaign.
They accounted for Central North and Central Coast on day one of the championships, then won their final game against Mid North Coast 47-nil.
Central West’s Colts also enjoyed success, bringing home the Rowlands Cup.
Head to South Circle this Saturday, the Platypi are at home to Dubbo Roos.
Burns’ milestone
By CHRISTINE LITTLE
From kicking a footy around Pioneer Oval at ve years old, who would have thought Billy Burns would be running out for his 50th NRL match.
The former Red Bend Catholic College student was named to play for the Sharks in round 11 against the Storm on Saturday night, in what was his fourth consecutive week and h appearance this NRL season.
It marks 50 NRL games for Billy and prior to the match he said he was feeling good about it.
He’s also scored 10 NRL tries in total over his career.
“I wasn’t really sure I was going to make it for a period there,” the now 26-year-old said.
“It’s only a little milestone in the NRL but it’s still pretty exciting.”
It’s Billy’s second year with the Cronulla Sharks and NSW Cup feeder club
Newtown Jets, a er making his NRL debut with the Penrith Panthers in 2019 and a three-year stint with St George Illawarra Dragons.
He’s been captain of the Jets since mid-season last year, a role he carries out with great pride.
He led the side to victory in the grand nal over North Sydney last year.
“I hadn’t been there long but the former captain got injured so I put my hand up and took on the role,”
Billy said. “I’m at that point where I can make an impact in my career now.”
He’s very focused on supporting the younger players coming through, and being someone they can look to for leadership and guidance.
“I want to help out where I can,” Billy said.
2025 is a special year for Billy in more ways than one, he’s getting married in October to Bronte Pearce, who he met when he was in Penrith.
Footy
Platypi representative Jules Pinsac. PHOTO: Supplied
of the NSW Cup on 8 March.
PHOTO: Newtown Jets
A grandstand for all
The Magpies Stand is the name endorsed for Spooner Oval’s new grandstand.
With numerous individuals and family names put forward by the community, councillors were unanimous in their support of a name that re ected the group.
It just wasn’t possible to choose one of our legends of local league, or one from among the many who have contributed so much to the club, councillors agreed when the decision came before their May meeting.
“When we look at (naming this grandstand) at a certain point in time we need to consider things in the past, what will happen in the future,” Cr Michele Herbert said.
“There are a lot of people in the past have been outstanding that need to be honoured, in the future we will have other players that will be fantastic as well.”
Councillors agged that a wall or hall of fame, or a legends space, would be a better way to acknowledge the con-
tributions of individuals and families over the eras so that it could continue to grow.
The new grandstand will be two levels with li access to the upper level, 210 seats, dressing rooms, a club room, bar and canteen and facilities throughout.
The project is expected to be completed by September.
Community members were invited to suggest names for the brand new venue, with some big Forbes names, NRL stars and living legends suggested.
League legends including former Australian captain Ian Walsh, Australian representative Archie Crippen and current NRL star Charlie Staines were just some of those recognised in the search for a name.
People who have contributed on and o the eld including Geo rey ‘Hector’ Acheson, Peter Kennedy, Peter ‘Cork’ Corliss, Lester D’Ombrain and Stubby Collits were nominated.
There were also plenty of
names re ecting Forbes rugby league and the community: The Magpie Nest, Local Legends Grandstand, The Albion, Magpie Manor, The Black and White Dynasty, The Nest and the Gold elds Grandstand.
Deputy Mayor Chris Roylance said many players and volunteers had contributed to the club over generations.
Forbes Magpies return to the nest this weekend to host Dubbo CYMS.
First grade had their winning run interrupted at Wellington last Sunday, the Cowboys claiming a 46-24 win in Round 4 of the Peter McDonald Premiership.
Blake Ferguson, Justin Toomey-White and Preston Simpson scored two tries apiece for the hosts, who were coming back from a home-ground defeat at the hands of Dubbo CYMS a week earlier.
Forbes try-scorers were Jack Smith, Michael Coady, Farren Lamb and Jack Hartwig.
Pony Club gears up for weekend
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Forbes Pony Club riders will put their skills on display during a massive weekend of riding at the annual Charlie O’Connor Jumping Day and Gymkhana.
The annual Charlie O’Connor Showjumping and Dressage event is Saturday 24 May, with the gymkhana to follow Sunday 25 May.
The major event at the gymkhana is the John Stewart Memorial Barrel Race.
Jessica Churchill, Caitlin Lewis and Leeanne Lewis in Forbes Pony Club’s fresh and upgraded canteen.
Club committee introduced a wool rug to be awarded to the rider/horse with the fastest time.
“We were lucky enough to have an awesome local business (Loomzy’s) sponsor our rug this year. It’s these businesses that make our event better on the day.”
The gymkhana involves riders competing in their age groups in events such as riding class, best presented, horse sporting, dressage and jumping.
the lead.
Some events for the beginners ring include pony with the longest tail, pony with the shaggiest coat and an egg and spoon race on horseback.
With the club ready to host riders and guests, they’re delighted to be working in an upgraded canteen space.
The previous canteen was a makeshi sink with no hot water and an old door on trestles.
“No one really knows how long it had been that way but word is a very long time,” Caitlin said.
“The John Stewart Memorial Barrel Race has been a highly contested event over many years at Forbes Pony Club where the top ve barrel race times of the day all head into a erce nal,” Caitlin said.
three barrels at speed but not too fast they knock a barrel over.”
“Riders have to ride around
Last year the Forbes Pony
There’ll also be a beginners ring, which Forbes Pony Club treasurer Caitlin Lewis said is lots of fun for the younger riders who are on
“Last year we were very lucky to secure a Forbes Shire Council grant to go towards new stainless steel furniture in our clubhouse,” Caitlin said.
The club now has a new sink with hot water, stainless steel cupboard, bench and a huge prep bench.
“The canteen is one of our main income sources to the club so it’s nice to see it get some much needed TLC.” Entries are now open through the Pony Club website justGo and the Club welcomes competitors from all over the Central West to attend.
More information can be found on the Forbes Pony Club Facebook page.
PHOTOS: Supplied