FORBES has wrapped around charity Little Wings, raising enough funds for another 20 local famiiles to access their critical support in a single fundraising night on Saturday. Club Forbes hosted an incredible and
moving event, and there was a very special moment during the week as well.
The children at Goodstart presented the cutest - and certainly the most glitterycheque to the charity, donating funds they
raised through their art last year.
■ Stories pages 3 and 4
Firearms seized, vehicles recovered as police make arrests and continue investigations
Police have made what they describe as signi cant arrests and are con dent more will follow in relation to recent property crime in and around Forbes.
A 38-year-old male is facing charges relating to rearms and goods in custody a er police were called to an alleged trespasser on a rural property in the Payten’s Bridge area on Monday.
A 21-year-old male was refused bail a er an alleged police pursuit in an allegedly stolen vehicle in Condobolin late Saturday night.
Chief Inspector Scott Rayner of Forbes Police said police continued their e orts to respond to crime concerns with a high visibility presence, and person and vehicle searches.
Western Region Police
PLACE TO BRING
WEEKLY SPECIALS
- SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE -
MONDAY: KIDS EAT FREE Bring the family.
TUESDAY: $15 SCHNITZELS Crispy, golden, and delicious.
WEDNESDAY: SUSHI NIGHT Fresh, flavourful, and fun.
THURSDAY: $20 STEAK NIGHT
Juicy steaks cooked to perfection.
SENIORS
Commander Andrew Holland met with Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM on Monday, with the community continuing to call for enhanced police presence and extended hours of operation.
Mayor Miller said her meeting was productive.
“I have recently had to go public because we need more police o cers and longer hours to ensure the
safety and security of Forbes residents,” she said.
Commander Holland outlined a plan to implement staggered rostering and introduce intermittent 24-hour shi s at the Forbes Police Station to provide increased police coverage and improve response times.
Commander Holland emphasised the importance of encouraging local youth to
national shortage, termed a police recruitment crisis.
“We are really trying to push growing our own hometown cops,” he said.
By promoting country kids and members of the community to consider a career change to apply for the police force and encouraging them to aim for positions in re-
have a deep understanding of local issues and a strong commitment to their hometown.
Mayor Miller expressed her gratitude for Commander Holland’s proactive approach and commitment to enhancing public safety in Forbes.
■ More Page 3
Now you can relax and enjoy your meal while the kids have a blast in a safe, fun-filled play area.
Aimee-Lee Nicholson, Harry and Jack were delighted to make the presentation to Mini Wings and Andrew Bailey, Little Wings.
Mayor pleased to meet police Commander
By MAYOR PHYLLIS MILLER OAM
A er many phone calls last week to the NSW Police Commissioner’s and Police Minister’s O ce, I was very pleased to meet our Western Region Commander Andrew Holland who has given me some solid assurances about the police presence in the Forbes community.
We have developed some ideas about improving the police presence and ensuring our residents are well protected and feel secure.
We look forward to continuing to work with Commander Holland who will implement changes to the rostering system at the Forbes Police Station.
A very important message out of the meeting on Monday was that if residents are in immediate risk to themselves or their property you MUST call 000.
So many residents have told me that they ring and ring the local police station number and get no answer.
It is important these calls are logged with 000 so we can get a true account of when police are needed here in our community.
Council will continue to work with the local police and we have shared our LIVE Forbes promotional material to be distribution to new police graduating in the hope of attracting more recruits to our area.
Commander Holland’s new district covers 72 per cent of NSW and he has been making his way around each of the communities, so it was a great opportunity to get to know him on Monday.
TOPSOIL SUCCESS
Congratulations to Forbes business Topsoil Organics, for its incredible success at the 2025 Western NSW Business Awards winning the Excellence in Sustainability, Excellence in Large Business and Overall Business of the Year.
This sustainable business is growing every day and we congratulate the whole team for their dedication, innovation and hard work.
ART ADVISORY COMMITTEE
I was pleased our rst ever Public Art Advisory Committee met on Tuesday night. Thanks to the amazing work of the Forbes Art Society, Forbes has an incredible collection of public art and this working party will now work with council to provide advice and recommendations to Council regarding the management and installation of public art within the Forbes LGA.
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
PEAK HILL ARTS AND CRAFT EXHIBITION
Saturday and Sunday, 7-8 June
Peak Hill’s 52nd Annual Arts and Cra Exhibition returns on the June long weekend. There will be works on display and demonstrations at the Peak Hill Leisure Arts and Cra Centre as well as The Carrington.
PARKES PICNIC RACES
Saturday, 7 June
Are you ready for the 2025 Parkes Picnic Races? Immerse yourself in thrilling races and top-notch entertainment by talented band Easy Goin. Don’t forget Fashions on the Field.
TULLAMORE CENTENARY SHOW GALA
Saturday, 7 June
Help celebrate 100 years of the Tullamore Show at their Centenary Gala at the Tullamore Memorial Hall. Early bird tickets are on sale now at 123tix.com. This is a 18 years plus black tie event. Bring your own drinks and nibbles and enjoy music by Foxxy Cleopatra. This will be a night to remember, so get your tickets.
JOURNALISTS
All systems go for 2025 Forbes Show
PUT Saturday 13 September in your diary, it’s the date of the 149th Forbes Show.
Our volunteer show committee is at work, preparing another great day of family fun and entertainment.
They’re locking in the entertainment and rides, readying the schedule, booking in the animal nursery and the reworks as they prepare to bring us another great day, says president Wayne Downes.
The one-day show format introduced in 2024 is back in 2025, with plenty on.
WHAT’S ON in and around
www.forbesadvocate.com.au
BOGAN GATE HALL MARKET
Saturday 7 June 8am to 1pm
Take a drive to Bogan Gate and support this community market in the Community Memorial Hall. There will be vintage nds, plants, cake stall, Devonshire tea, jams and chutneys, candles, jewellery, face painting, soaps and much more.
MEN’S HEALTH CHECKS
Friday 13 June, Saturday 14 June
Rotary is bringing the MHERVthe Men’s Health Education Rotary Van - to Forbes o ering free health checks. If you don’t remember the last time you had a check up, then it’s time. They’ll check your blood pressure and blood sugar levels, as well as cholesterol. The van will be in Harold Street, opposite Town Hall, on Friday 13 June from 9.30am to 4.15pm. It will be at the Rotary Markets at Forbes Youth Centre on Saturday 14 June from 9.30am to 4.15pm.
INDOOR MARKET
Saturday 14 June
The markets are moving indoors for June! Rotary Ipomoea’s market will be at Forbes Youth and Community Centre from 8am to
Renee Powell 0448 238 023
rpowell@midwestmedia.com.au
Brendan McCool 0448 238 254
bmccool@midwestmedia.com.au
CLASSIFIEDS (02) 6342 1044
classifieds@midwestmedia.com.au
ADVERTISING
Michelle Brown 0429 421 044
mbrown@midwestmedia.com.au
Forbes
midday. Phone to book a stall on 0427 201 445. If the weather is mild there will be stalls outdoors as well, including co ee and the Rotary breakfast caravan.
EUGOWRA RUGBY LEAGUE LADIES DAY
Saturday 14 June
Ladies, enjoy an a ernoon of fun, live music, nibbles under the marquee at Ian Walsh Stadium: it’s ladies day at Eugowra rugby league club. It’s the perfect opportunity to come together, enjoy great company and support the Young Eagles, Geagles and Golden Eagles. From midday.
FROST AND FIRE
Saturday, 21 June
Country rock artists the Wolfe Brothers, Ripley Alexander and the Baker Boys headline an incredible night’s entertainment for this annual festival.
Cosy up by toasty re buckets, indulge in hearty treats from our food trucks, and savour boutique brews while being serenaded by internationally recognised Australian music acts on the main stage.
Tickets now online through 123tix.com.au
If you’d like to be involved in this year’s show the committee would love to welcome more volunteers along.
With the diversity of the exhibits at the show there really is something for everyone. They also have sponsorship opportunities available. You can go to the Forbes Show NSW Facebook page, email forbesshow@gmail. com or phone 0400 951 717.
That means it’s time to start thinking about those entries - make a start on that painting, new crochet pattern or LEGO project. Everyone’s entries make the Show what it is, with interest from the school art pavilion through the commercial pavilion, the decorated cakes, handicra s and owers.
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.
FORBES RUGBY LADIES DAY
Saturday 12 July
It’s ladies day at Forbes Rugby Union Club, from midday to 5pm at Grinsted Oval. Enjoy grazing boards, lunch by Eat Your Greens, bar and live music, followed by a jersey auction. Tickets online through 123tix.com.au
CANOWINDRA
ESKY BALL
July 25, 5:30pm - 11:30pm - Tickets $80
Want to add to this list? Email renee.powell@forbesadvocate. com.au FROST AND FIRE IS ON
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.
Tom Webb enjoying the rides at the 2024 Forbes Show.
PHOTO: File
Police seize firearms, recover vehicles, expect more arrests
■ From page 1
POLICE were called to the Payten’s Bridge property on Monday 2 June a er a farm worker, investigating a small re, found an unknown person on the property.
A farm worker found an unknown person on the property when he went to a shed to investigate a small re about midday on Monday.
When he noticed a ri e nearby, he contacted police who attended and made an arrest, a NSW Police statement issued to media on Monday said.
During a search of the shed and surrounding area, police allegedly located two motor vehicles that were not associated with the property.
A Toyota Hilux utility was identied as being allegedly stolen from a break, enter and steal o ence at Garema about Thursday 29 May 2025, along with a quantity of power tools.
Police also located a quantity of .22 calibre ammunition inside the utility.
During a search of a second vehicle, a Holden Commodore util-
ity, police found a car fridge which was allegedly stolen from a neighbouring property.
Police seized a total ve rearms, a heavy-duty trailer and an ag motorcycle.
The man has been charged with 13 o ences including ve counts of possess unauthorised rearm, three counts of goods in custody, possess ammunition without a permit, and two counts of possess prohibited drug.
In a separate incident the 21-year-old was arrested a er, it’s alleged, police attempted to stop
a ute earlier reported stolen from Forbes in Condobolin shortly before midnight on Saturday 31 May.
A er a vehicle pursuit, the two occupants ran from the vehicle, police pursuing and arresting the male driver.
With inquiries to identify the woman continuing, the man was taken to Condobolin Police Station and charged with o ences including carry cutting weapon upon apprehension, goods in person custody suspected of being stolen, possess housebreaking implements and relating to vehicle the .
Chief Inspector Scott Rayner of Forbes Police said police continue their investigations related to these matters.
They have also charged two women a er seizing property in a search warrant in Forbes last Thursday, 29 May.
A 55-year-old Forbes female is facing charges of four counts of goods in custody suspected of being stolen and possess prohibited drug, while an 18-year-old female was charged with possess ammunition, receive stolen property and possess prohibited drugs.
Generosity will keep charity in air
ANOTHER 20 Forbes families will be able to access Little Wings’ critical support if they need it thanks to the community’s generosity at a fundraising night for the charity on Saturday.
“It was absolutely amazing,” the organisation’s CEO Clare Pearson said of the booked-out function.
Little Wings is a not-for-pro t providing sick children and their families with free ongoing ight and ground transport during the treatment process.
Five local families who Little Wings has helped get to the city for medical treatment were represented, with the Doyle family sharing their story.
Little Wings CEO Clare Pearson said the need for their services has increased, particularly around Forbes and Parkes as people become aware of their service.
Funds raised Saturday night position them to help the next families who receive a diagnosis and reach out for assistance.
“To have that money sitting there ready to support those families gives us so much relief,” Ms Pearson said.
“When we say yes to a family we don’t just say yes to this ight and we hope we can do it next time, we’re saying yes, whatever you need, whenever you need it, and we’re raising money in the background to keep that sustainable for that family.”
The Doyles are one of those families: Nikki and Mitch sharing how Little Wings has helped them since their son Leo was diagnosed with cone rod dystrophy, which is causing his sight to deteriorate.
It’s a long way from Forbes to the specialists, but ying with Lit-
tle Wings makes it possible for the family.
“Without Little Wings Mitch would have to stay here while I drive and take Leo, because a lot of the time they’ve got football, they’ve got other commitments, they need to be at school,” Nikki said.
“With Little Wings, we can all just get on a plane do what we need and come back. We can keep our family together.”
This is something that’s especially critical during specialist appointments.
Club Forbes was the major sponsor of Saturday night’s special function and they made the event incredibly special from the decorations to the food, the service and entertainment.
Luke Whitty donated his time to auction the many, generously donated items.
“We had so many people – more
than 20 people - put their hand up and say we can donate,” Ms Pearson said.
“In the auction alone they raised more than $25,000.”
The crowd then danced the night away, joined by Little Wings mascot Mini on the dance oor.
The community’s incredible heart and generosity has made a big impact on the Little Wings team.
Over the past ve years, Little Wings has experienced a 400 per
cent increase in service demand, expanding from 429 missions before Covid-19 to more than 2,371 missions in FY24.
Their core work is to connect children to medical treatment but they also nd themselves extending to what Ms Pearson describes as “wrap around care” for their families.
Little Wings’ message is, “You really matter to us and we want to make sure if there’s something we can do, we will do it to make sure you’re supported.”
“This year alone, since January, we have provided more than $20,000 in vouchers for food and clothing for the families we support,” Ms Pearson said. “If we can issue those vouchers and give a little bit of relief that is so key.”
GIFT FROM THE HEART
The children at Goodstart Early Learning Forbes have put their creativity to the best of uses: creating art that’s raised funds they’ve now donated to Little Wings.
The not-for-pro t centre turned children’s art into calendars, gi cards, diaries and more, raising $420 which they wanted to donate to a worthy cause.
Preschoolers considered carefully before choosing Little Wings, a charity providing free air transport for children and their families across New South Wales to access medical treatment.
Their own friend Jack was able to tell them how he had own in the Little Wings plane to Sydney.
A very special guest, Mini Wings, visited the centre to meet the children and they gave her their handcra ed novelty cheque made with lots of love and glitter.
Enjoy
Sip Pablo & Rusty co ee, dine in or take away. With a warm vibe and quick service, it’s perfect for a snack or a relaxed catch-up.
Little Wings CEO Clare Pearson described the Forbes fundraiser dinner as “absolutely amazing”.
Forbes rallies at a great night for cause
Club Forbes was the venue for a spectacular dinner for Little Wings on Saturday 31 May.
Club Forbes proudly supports Little Wings, a non-pro t organisation providing free air and ground transport for seriously ill or injured children in rural and regional NSW, ensuring ongoing access to lifesaving medical treatment that is only available in a major city.
Clare Pearson, CEO Of Little Wings, says the organisation is truly grateful to receive the consistent support of Club Forbes.
“Their assistance over many years has allowed Little Wings to support regional families in need without hesitation, to plan services for those with chronic or lifelong needs, and to be part of the solution for regional healthcare,” she said.
“With the assistance of Club Forbes, two seriously ill children from regional and remote NSW have been directly supported, either seeing their specialist in their treating hospital or via a Medical Wings clinic in their local region.”
One of the families Club Forbes has supported is Scarlett, seven years old and a resident of the Forbes community.
Scarlett was born with cerebral palsy and requires specialist treatment at Westmead Children’s Hospital twice per year for her routine injections and therapies to assist her walking and gross motor functions.
With the help of Little Wings the journey from home to hospital goes from a six-hour drive to a one-hour ight, easing the journey for the entire family.
Lucian and Davianne Cloete, Chris and Melissa Cannon, Tegan and Kyal Hunter. Stacey Morris and Suzette Corpez.
Cowan.
Kimberley Webb, Damian Livermore, Paul and Wendy Nicholls and Nicole Livermore.
Jamie Cha ey is o cially the Federal Member for Parkes following the declaration of the polls by the Australian Electoral Commission on Tuesday morning.
Mr Cha ey said he was grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of the Parkes electorate.
“Over the election campaign I met so many incredible people, and I would like to thank everyone who gave me their vote and supported me during the campaign,” he said.
“I am now looking forward to getting to work to ght for every single person in the Parkes electorate to make our area an even better place to live.”
Mr Cha ey has been included in the Shadow Ministry announced by the National and Liberal parties, to serve as Shadow Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Shadow Assistant Minister for Resources.
“As the newly elected Member for Parkes, my duty will always be to serve the people of the Parkes electorate, and in this new role I will have a greater capacity to advocate on their behalf and hold the Labor Government accountable,” Mr Cha ey said.
values, and focus on regional Australia, combined with our strong policies, will give strength to our Coalition partners to enable a Coalition Government to come to power at the next election.”
Mr Cha ey said his role in the Shadow Ministry would also give him a greater voice for the people of Parkes.
“The Parkes electorate is made up of diverse economies across 20 local government areas, and the Unincorporated Far West Area, with two of the major economic drivers being the agricultural and resources sectors.
“Under the leadership of The National Party, we held all of our Lower House seats at the recent election.
“It is my belief that our
“I also acknowledge that people are doing it tough, and as I heard during the campaign, people are really concerned about the lack of access to childcare, healthcare and aged care,” he said.
“Once you leave the town boundaries it’s the state of our roads and telecommunications.
“I want to see sustainable investment continue in the Parkes electorate, includ-
ing the Inland Rail to drive economic growth and our population, that means the right projects in the right locations across major infrastructure like road, rail, air, processing and manufacturing. I want to see truly local, small and medium businesses supported, so that our locals are at the heart of our future success. That’s my vision for the Parkes electorate and one I’m keen to start advocating for.”
Michael McCormack, who was Forbes’ representative as the Member for Riverina, is no longer on the Coalition front bench.
He said the past three years serving as Shadow Minister for International Development and the Paci c had been amongst the most rewarding of his career.
Council adds to call for change to housing plan
Forbes Shire Council will support community concerns about a housing development in Oxford Street, saying they’ll appeal to Homes NSW to change their development plans for a 20-unit block.
Residents fronted councillors’ May meeting appealing for the shire’s support in opposing a proposal to build a two-storey complex of one and two-bedroom homes where there has been three homes.
Residents say it takes the number of occupants from a possible 12 to 56 and is vastly di erent to the rest of the neighbourhood.
They add the 14 parking spots allocated on the initial plans are not enough.
“The development is not t for the area, it’s too large in build and scale,” they said at the council meeting. “We do not oppose the development, it is the density of the development and the inadequate o -street parking we strongly oppose.”
Councillors moved their discussions into the closed section of the council meeting, but the council has provided a copy of the resolution to The Advocate Council will forward correspondence from the o ce of the Mayor, including the following points:
That council considers the bulk and scale to be out of keeping with that established in the Camp Hill precinct, it is suggested that the design be more re ective of the established bulk and scale of the area and the development standards of the Forbes Development Control Plan, 2013;
That the maximum density of the development be more re ective of Council’s development standards of the Forbes Development Control Plan, 2013 being one unit per 250m2 of the site;
That adequate o street full size car parking re ective of Council’s development standard of one space per dwelling and a visitor space at a rate of one per four dwellings or any part thereof;
That landscaping being provided in accordance with area requirements for the de-
velopment standards of the Forbes Development Control Plan, 2013;
That the development be redesigned to limit opportunities, for any two storey dwellings, to overshadow or overlook adjoining residential land.
Correspondence will be forwarded to The Hon. Rose Jackson MP, Minister for Water, Housing, Homelessness, Mental Health and Youth, NSW Department of Communities and Justice, The Hon. Penny Sharpe MLC, Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Energy and the Minister for Heritage, The Hon. Paul Scully, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, The Hon. Kate Washington, Minister for Families and Communities, Minister for Disability Inclusion, Mr Phil Donato, MP, Member for Orange and the NSW Legislative Assembly and Ms Rebecca Pinkstone, CEO Homes NSW.
In response to earlier questions from The Advocate, Homes NSW said community consultation was critical to the planning process, informing and in uencing “all stages of the development”.
“The two-storey development proposed for Oxford and Hill Streets will help address the increasing and urgent demand for more social and a ordable housing within the Forbes Shire LGA,” a Homes NSW spokesperson said.
“The feedback from the recent preliminary noti cation stage will be carefully considered for the next phase of the project, developing a detailed design.”
The spokesperson added that Homes NSW is committed to ensuring the architecture compliments the existing streetscape, and said further community engagement would be undertaken once a blueprint had beennalised.
They added Homes NSW was committed to addressing the housing crisis in regional NSW, with people on the social housing wait list in Forbes.
They have since hosted a community consultation session in Forbes.
Council welcomes Expressions of Interest until 5:00pm on 30 June 2025. For more information go to https://www.forbes.nsw.gov.au/council/tenders-publicexhibitions-and-expressions-of-interest/tenders-and-eoi or contact Council (02) 6850 2300 (option 4). Draft Community Strategic Plan, Delivery Program, Operational Plan, Statement of Revenue Policy and Schedule of Fees and Charges 2025/26 In accordance with ss.405-405 of the Local Government Act 1993, Council places on public exhibition its draft Forbes Community Strategic Plan 20252035, Delivery Program 2025-2029 and Operational Plan 2025/26, Statement of Revenue Policy 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.
Save the Healthdirect number now: NSW Health
With an increase in winter illnesses expected over the coming months, people across NSW are being reminded free and instant health advice and treatment is available 24/7 by calling Healthdirect on 1800 022 222.
A new campaign, launched by NSW Health has encouraged all NSW residents to save 1800 022 222 in their phone, to be ready for when illness strikes over winter.
An increasing number of people are turning to the service to get the advice and reassurance they need to recover quickly.
Last winter, nearly 20,000 people across NSW called Healthdirect seeking care for their cold and u symptoms, almost double the number of people from 2023.
Of these, four in ve people avoided an unnecessary trip to the emergency department, instead managing their symptoms at home with virtual care or through an appointment with a GP or at a local urgent care service.
“If you or someone you care about needs health advice, treatment or care Healthdirect should be your rst call,” Minister for Health Ryan Park said.
“Whether it’s a tumble in the playground or a bad bug keeping you up through the night – free, instant health advice is only a phone call away.
Mr Park encouraged residents to save the number for when they need it most.
“Have the number handy for those times when you need professional and reassuring health advice,” he said.
“Don’t wait, save the Healthdirect number 1800 022 222 today and share the number with those you love.
This simple call has saved thousands of people a needless trip to the ED and has ensured people can access the right care at the right time – and fast.”
When people call Healthdirect, a registered nurse will ask some questions about their health.
Depending on their condition, the nurse will recommend the right healthcare option.
This may include a nearby doctor, pharmacist or urgent care service, connecting them with specialist virtual care, or calling an ambulance if it is life-threatening.
If you need support in your language, you can call the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) on 131 450 and ask to be connected to healthdirect.
If you or someone you are with is experiencing a medical emergency, please continue to call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
For example, you have di culty breathing, chest pain, severe bleeding, sudden collapse or are seriously injured.
Making connections in Reconciliation Week
There were johnny cakes and laughter by the re as Forbes marked Reconciliation Week at the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre.
CatholicCare Wilcannia Forbes hosted the gathering, with children’s activities and lunch with the support of Forbes Shire Council and playgroup.
At the same time, the region’s emergency services and re-
sponders were visiting to connect with local Indigenous communities as part of a workshop coordinated by the Department of Aboriginal A airs.
Jenny Howard, manager of brokerage and emergency management with the department, said they’d visited a number of communities and had had very positive responses.
Representatives of Rural Fire Service, NSW Fire and Rescue, Reconstruction Authority, Premier’s Department, Transport for NSW and Department of Communities and Justice received a warm welcome in Forbes and the tour group described the relationships they were building as invaluable.
Tim Heslop, Rural Fire Service
Manager Community Risk in the western area, said relationships were key to preparedness for times of emergency.
“These sorts of events bring people together,” he said.
The theme of Reconciliation Week 2025 is Bridging Now to Next, re ecting the connection between past, present and future.
Leah McAvoy with little Oli enjoying painting at the Dreaming Centre.
Kirsten Martino with Claire and Rachel concentrating on
Nadika McKeown, Kelly Bowden, Jenny Howard from Aboriginal A airs, and (front) Cathy Bowden.
Special guest on Sorry Day
Aunty Florence Onus has shared her experience as a Stolen Generation survivor and message of healing with Forbes on Sorry Day.
Aunty Florence is a Birrigubba, Bidjara and Jagalingu woman from North and Central Qld, an educator with more than 20 years experience who chaired the Inaugural Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Healing Foundation and the Stolen Generations Reference Committee and has given input into policies such as the National Health Plan roadmap to Closing the Gap.
On Monday 26 May, she shared her story with Forbes, addressing Red Bend Catholic College and Forbes High School as well as spending time at our Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre and with community members.
Barry Merritt, who organised Aunty Florence’s visit, said it was a privilege to meet and host her.
“She’s an amazing woman and it’s a very positive way for us to move forward and heal together as a country,” he said.
Aunty Florence was the fourth generation to be removed from her family and Mr Merritt said hearing her experiences helped the community realise this was not distant history, but affected people today.
“We’re in the game of education and for us to truly move forward as a nation we need to face these truths and move together and heal,” he said.
“Aunty Florence was very positive on that. She walked us through her footsteps and the trauma that she went through but also gave us solutions on how we do move forward and heal.”
Red Bend’s assembly was an incredibly special occasion, with local elders invited to the College for the event as well.
“The children came home” was played, before the community sang “We are one” in both Wiradjuri and English in a very moving conclusion.
“We are Australian, it brings us all together as one, it was a very special day,” Mr Merritt said.
New ‘halo’ sculpture for Parkes bypass
Motorists travelling to Parkes will notice some activity taking shape on the bypass roundabout at Condobolin Road.
A new “halo” sculpture is being installed in its centre and movement around the roundabout may be a little restricted.
A 100-tonne crane arrived on-site on Monday to lift into place the columns, frame, panels and a 12-metre flagpole that will form the sculpture.
Designs show coloured, galvanised steel panels will be mounted on columns in a ring shape, giving the appearance of a halo of colour.
A 12-metre flagpole in the centre will allow the council to advertise local events.
Yellows, orange and pinks fill face the northern side of the roundabout and greens, blues and purples facing the south. Transport for NSW has worked with Parkes Shire Council on this statement piece at the western entry into Parkes to encourage visitors into the town.
Irrigation and solar lighting will be installed and landscaping will take place.
The installation is expected to take four weeks to complete, weather permitting, and there will be some changes to traffic conditions at the roundabout during this time.
Work hours will be 7am to 6pm from Monday to Friday and 8am to 6pm on Saturday.
Aunty Florence with Forbes High School’s (back) Gabby, Amelia, Halle, Aunty Florence, Jamal, Belle, Adelaide, Shneil,
Aunty Florence Onus with Red Bend’s Mr Martino, Mr Dwyer, Mykel Coe, Amelia Smith, Skye Harris and Barry Merritt.
PHOTO: Red Bend Catholic College
Cr Marg Applebee snapped the sculpture’s progress on Tuesday morning.
PHOTO: Marg Applebee
Students step up and speak out
OXLEY GROUP CWA
By SUE CUNNINGHAM
Parkes was the destination for nearly 90 students on Monday 27 May to compete in the annual CWA Oxley Group Public Speaking Contest sponsored by Forbes Shire Council, Parkes Shire Council and Oxley Group CWA Branches.
The competition catered for students from Year 3 to 10 in the Oxley CWA area.
Students in each of the four divisions could choose one of three topics, di erent for each division.
From each division a winner, three Highly Commended and two Reserves were selected to move to the next stage of CWA Inter Group Competition, which will be in Orange on 23 June 2025.
In the Year 3 & 4 Division, there were 35 competitors.
“The talent possessed by these competitors was outstanding which made adjudicating very di cult,” Oxley Group President Robyn Miller said - and this was a comment repeated by other judges.
The winner of the Year 3 and 4 Division was Frances Pereira from St Laurence’s Primary School Forbes who spoke on the topic of “I Like Collecting…”
The Year 5 and 6 Division 30 students competed for the top spots.
Rev. Brian Schmalkuche said it was wonderful to see so many stu-
dents taking on a skill that would be useful to them through their lives.
“You never know when you will be called upon to speak in public whether at a family function or a public event. Having this skill builds con dence and resilience,” he said.
Aiden Fa from St Francis Xavier, Lake Cargelligo was the winner in this Division choosing to speak about “Taking a risk” and using Ruth Parkes and the US Civil Rights Movement to explain his point of view.
Competition was erce with only a few points separating all the competitors. Again, judges were impressed with the number of entrants and the presentations and delivery of the speeches making comments like “outstanding and talented” coming from the judges.
Although the Secondary Schools’ Divisions did not have as many entrants, the judges were still impressed with the e orts students made.
Year 7 and 8 had 12 competitors, while Year 9 and 10 had nine.
In the Year 7 and 8 Division, Rosemary Mayo from Parkes Christian School was the winner choosing to speaking about a ‘Famous Australian Female Scientist’ in Fiona Wood, who developed spray on skin to treat burns victims.
Again, the students made it dif-
cult for the judges who nally resorted to the very ner points of public speaking to select the Highly Commended recipients.
Catalina Elias from Red Bend Catholic College won the Year 9 and 10 Division with her perspective on the topic ‘The Voice of Reason has Laryngitis’.
Catalina used her family and siblings’ antics as a prompt to present her perspective of how reason and commonsense sometimes cannot be heard and nonsense reigns.
Pat Hurley (CWA judge) congratulated all who participated and supported them.
“It’s wonderful to have so many parents and grandparents supporting our younger community,” she said.
“It’s very important students continue on taking risks and making themselves heard, so please come back next year and continue to grow this important life skill as you can use it all your life once you have it.”
An appreciative thank you to all the adjudicators: Robyn Miller (CWA Oxley Group President), Roel ten Gate and Ros Bell for adjudicating the Yrs 3 &4 and 7 & 8 Divisions and Pat Hurley (CWA Oxley Group), Kath Whitchurch and Rev. Brian Schmalkuche adjudicating the Yr 5 & 6 and 9 & 10 Divisions.
Ros Edwards, CWA Oxley Pub-
lic Speaking O cer and organiser, thanked the Forbes and Parkes Shire Councils and Oxley CWA Branches for their sponsorship of this event.
“If we didn’t have sponsors like these, we would not be able to run the event and showcase the talent we have in our local area,” she said.
Ros also thanked Parkes CWA Branch for hosting the day and the ladies who provided the yummy slices and biscuits available to the students, parents and o cials.
The winners were:
Years 3 / 4 winner was Frances Pereira of St Laurence’s, Forbes, who spoke on “I like collecting”.
High commended to: Lila Grieg of Tottenham Central, with “A day in the life of …”; Ivy Hawken of Parkes East with “It’s too noisy” and Edie Dawes of St Laurence’s, Forbes, with “It’s too noisy”.
Reserves are Valentine Karaitiana of Forbes North, who also spoke on “It’s too noisy”; and Lachlan Coombs of Middleton Public who spoke on “I like collecting”.
Years 5 / 6 winner was Aiden Fa of St Francis Xavier, Lake Cargelligo, whose topic was “Taking a risk”. Highly commended were: Stanley Drooger of Holy Family, Parkes; Emily Wild of Middleton Public; and Abby Mulligan of St Laurence’s, Forbes; who all chose “Taking a risk” as their topic.
Reserves are: Emerson Kaden of Holy Family, Parkes; and Sophie Smith of Middleton Public; who spoke on “The power of music”. Winner of years 7 and 8 was Grace Mayo of Parkes Christian School, whose topic was famous Australian women scientists. Highly commended were: Peter Elias of Red Bend Catholic College, speaking on “Bitten by the bug”; Sopia Byrne of Red Bend Catholic College, on “Why is leadership important?” and Rhys Hutchins of Parkes High School whose topic was “Bitten by the bug”.
Reserves are Githmi Gamage of Forbes High; and Chelsey Spencer of Ungarie Central; who both chose the topic “Why is leadership important?”
Years 9 / 10 winner was Catalina Elias of Red Bend Catholic College who chose the topic, “The voice of reason has laryngitis”
It was a popular choice for this age group, addressed by each of the high commended participants: Saxon Guess of Parkes Christian School; Georgia Baird of Red Bend Catholic College; and Coco Byrnes of Red Bend Catholic College.
Reserves are Katie Corke of Red Bend Catholic College, whose topic was “The voice of reason has laryngitis” and Mia Kiss of Forbes High who spoke on “Who in uences me the most?”
Yr 9 and 10 winner Catalina Elias. PHOTOS: Oxley Group CWA
Yr 9 and 10 Saxon Guess (HC), Rev Brian Schmalkuche (Judge), Georgie Baird and Coco Byrnes.
Yr 7 and 8 Peter Elias (HC) Rhys Hutchins (HC) Grace Mayo (Winner) and Sophia Byrne (HC).
Yr 5 and 6 Emily Wild, Abby Mulligan and Stanley Drooger (HC) with the judges Pat Hurley, Rev Brian Schmalkucke and Kath Whitchurch. PHOTO: Oxley Group CWA
Year 5 and 6 winner at Oxley Group CWA’s public speaking competition was Aiden Fa with judges Pat Hurley, Rev Brian Schmalkucke and Kath Whitchurch.
Yr 3 and 4 Ivy Hawkin (HC), Valentine Karaitiana and Lachlan Coombs (reserves), Frances Pereira (winner), Lila Greg, Eddie Dawes (HC) with judges Roel ten Cate and Robyn Miller.
Central West animal shelter announces closure
The Central West Shelter for RSPCA NSW will permanently close its doors, with operations gradually scaling back from early June.
Animal adoptions will continue during this period, until their last trading day on 12 June 2025.
As a charity operating in an incredibly tough environment, the charity said they were continuously faced with making challenging decisions to ensure long-term sustainability and the best possible welfare outcomes for the animals of NSW.
The group also cited a reduction in funding for animal welfare law enforcement, combined with rising operational costs, making the operation of the shelter no longer viable.
“To achieve the greatest long-term impact, we must redirect our limited resources toward prevention-focused, community-based services that stop cruelty and welfare concerns before they occur, while keeping pets safe, healthy, and in caring homes,” an RSPCA spokesperson said in a statement.
“We recognise that this site has been a valuable part of the community for many years, and we deeply respect the strong connection so many people have to it.”
While the physical shelter is closing, RSPCA NSW’s presence in the Central West region will continue through the Orange Supporter Group, Inspectorate, and community-based outreach and events across the region.
“Our commitment to animal welfare hasn’t changedwhat’s changing is how we deliver it,” RSPCA NSW CEO Steve Coleman said.
“We’re focusing on prevention and early intervention, because we know that the best place for an animal is not in a shelter, but in a caring, supported home.”
“To all the sta , volunteers, and supporters - past and present - who have contributed their time, care, and compassion, we thank you immensely.
“Your commitment to the animals of the Central West region and beyond have shaped the shelter’s legacy and helped countless animals in need.”
Registrations open for heavy vehicle breakfast
Registrations are open for this year’s Central West NSW Heavy Vehicle Breakfast Forum, which will be held at the Forbes Inn on Thursday, 12 June.
Local farmers, contract harvesters, couriers, truck drivers and transport company operators are invited to attend.
Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention O cer, Melanie Suitor, who is organising the forum said this year’s event will focus on higher productivity vehicles, safety, compliance and
industry case studies and there will be a high productivity vehicle on display.
“Since its inception in 2012, the breakfast forum has brought together the local freight industry to discuss issues a ecting them,” Ms Suitor said.
“Come along to listen, learn and ask questions of industry experts from NHVR, Transport for NSW, Parkes Shire Council, NSW Police, Essential Energy, Midland and Healthy Heads in Trucks and Sheds,” Ms Suitor added.
You can register online with via https://forms.office.com/r/pkPN1Vt4Ji,
or through the Councils’ Facebook pages or call Ms Suitor on 6861 2364. The forum will kick o at 6.30am with breakfast.
The o cial program starts at 7am and the event will nish at 11.30am. The forum is free, but registration is required for catering purposes.
If you are unable to make it on the day, the event is being recorded and the link to the video will be shared on the Councils’ Facebook pages and in follow-up media articles or contact Ms Suitor to register your interest in receiving the link.
This quick check can improve child safety in the car
The recent free child restraint checking event, a service provided by Forbes Shire Council, discovered that more than 50 per cent of the child restraints checked were incorrectly tted.
The service provided free child restraint inspections in the Forbes Rugby Club carpark, by local authorised child restraint tters.
Seven child restraints were brought in by parents and grandparents for checking - mostly rearward/forward facing converter child restraints or forward facing/booster converter child restraints. There was also an installation.
Forbes Shire Council’s Road Safety and Injury Prevention Ofcer, Melanie Suitor, said this bi-annual event continues to be popular.
“The child restraints that were incorrectly tted had minor prob-
lems that needed xing to ensure the safety of the child,” Ms Suitor said.
The most common errors were:
• the seatbelt needed tightening
• a gated buckle needed to be tted to ensure a tighter t and
• the top tether strap was twisted.
“The correct tting and adjustment of child restraints is vital,” Ms Suitor said.
“It is important to make sure that your precious cargo is safe and buckled up every time they are in the car - whether it’s a ve minute or ve-hour journey.”
While this was a free bi-annual event, local authorised Child Restraint Fitters can install and check child restraints all yearround for a small fee.
The local tter in Forbes is Jelbart Dawson.
The local tters in Parkes are
Col Fletcher Ford & Kia and Parkes Tyrepower.
National child restraint laws have been in e ect since 2010. All children must be safely fastened into the correct child restraint for their age and size. Children need to be at least 145cm or taller to use an adult lap sash seatbelt.
Research shows children who are not restrained correctly are seven times more likely to sustain life-threatening injuries in a crash than those who are properly secured. Visit www.childcarseats.com. au for more information about child restraint rules, types, FAQs and to view the rating results.
The ratings indicate the comparative safety a child restraint provided its occupant under certain test conditions, as well as how easily it can be used.
Since 2012 the breakfast forum has brought together the local freight industry.
Our road safety and injury prevention o icer Melanie Suitor. PHOTO: Supplied
VIEW’s fundraiser trivia success for Smith Family
By SUE CUNNINGHAM
Forbes View Club held a Trivia Night on 9 May to raise funds for the Smith Family who support students through their Learning for Life Education Programs.
These programs empower students living with disadvantage to succeed as they enter the workforce.
There are 270 VIEW Clubs around Australia assisting the Smith Family to support 1,800 students.
Forbes View Club sponsors nine of these students. It costs approximately $600 to support a primary age student and up to approximately
$1,400 for a Tertiary student. Trivia nights are one of our fundraising events to be able to help sponsor these students.
The night was very successful with nearly 100 guests attending and raising over $1,100.
Trivia-goers answered questions on a range of topics Australian geography, famous people, geology and fossils, fairytales, biology, physiology, chemistry, music, condiments, food, sport and generally the universe.
All had a great social time as well, catching up with friends and family. Thank you to all who sup-
ported our fundraising efforts and for making it such a successful night.
A special thank you to Taylor Hodges-Lockwood for being our Quiz Master and Judy Kerr for organising the trivia questions and adjudicating on the evening. Also an appreciative thanks to Club Forbes for the venue and nibbles supplied by the club.
A reminder to all VIEW Club members to contact their designated person by Thursday 5 June to RSVP for lunch on 12 June 2025. Special guest speaker will be Anne South speaking about Eugowra and the ood recovery.
Get your camp ovens ready for cook-off
By BRENDAN MCCOOL
Mark the June long weekend for the Caragabal Camp Oven Cook o on Sunday, 8 June.
Now in its 14th year, the annual, the annual event is expected to draw people from around the state and Canberra to Caragabal.
While the cooko is on Sunday, people begin to arrive at the Caragabal Showgrounds from Thursday, 5 June.
With prizes for rst place and runner up in the main meal and desert categories, the only limit is competitors imagination and the requirement that all entries are cooked in a camp oven.
Caragabal Camp Oven Cook O ’s Donna Pursehouse said they have seen some really great meals over the years, with some of the meals last year including beef in red wine, lamb tagine, lamb shanks, roasts Texas style chilli, razor-
back beef, massaman beef curry, golden syrup dumplings, apple choc chip turnover and self saucing pudding.
With six judges helming the competition, Ms Pursehouse said while presentation is considered, a big portion of the score is base don the meal’s taste.
While the cook o is on Sunday, there will be some events hosted in Caragabal, with live music by Platinum Duo at the Caragabal Hotel on Friday, 6 June, with DJ Moore providing music at the Cook o on Sunday.
Also taking place on Sunday will be kids games, billy boiling competitions, tug-of-war games, wood auctions, rafes and bon re to nish o the night. There will also be hot food available on Sunday.
All money raised by the Caragabal Camp Oven Cook O will go towards the maintenance of the Caragabal Memorial Hall.
Kerry Turner and Robyn Drury enjoying the challenge.
Anne Mackay and Sylvia Glasson.
PHOTOS: Supplied
Judy Kerr and Taylor Hodges-Lockwood checking trivia questions.
Crop Swap always a favourite
By MARG APPLEBEE CENTRAL WEST
LACHLAN LANDCARE
Crop Swap will once again be a welcome inclusion in the next Homegrown Parkes event on Saturday, 11 Octo ber.
When we rst started dis cussing bringing together an event like Homegrown Parkes, we knew that Crop Swap had to play a part in the day.
For many people swapping or giving away their produce without reimbursement is a bit to get their head around, but we have found that it re inforces feelings of commu nity building, sharing, and learning.
We hope that Crop Swap participants will be encour aged by the event.
There is pretty much a ‘positive vibes only’ feeling about the whole day.
With a Spring event, we will expect di erent varieties
We can’t wait to see what is
You are welcome to show up on the day with produce, we will just require your name and contact details etc.
Hannah Farrant-Jayet and Michael Chambers will be overseeing the Crop Swap Stall and they will be busy sharing the Crop Swap mes-
In addition to the other fabulous activities on the day, we will have our fabu-
I am continually blown away by the beautiful things that are being produced in our local area and we can’t wait to share it all in Cooke
Homegrown Parkes is a free event open to everyone between 9am and 2pm on Saturday, 11 October 2025
and is proudly supported by Central West Lachlan Landcare, Parkes Shire Council and Parkes Community Arts. We are also thrilled to be the recipient of funding from the Northparkes Evolution Mine Community Investment Program, which will provide support for the delivery of workshops and entertainment amongst other things.
We have set up a one stop shop for all Homegrown Parkes events, competitions and anything else that will help you to be part of our morning, that can be found here: https://bit.ly/HomegrownParkes and of course, you can follow Homegrown Parkes directly on our social media.
For further information on this article, please go to www. centralwestlachlanlandcare. org, Twitter, Facebook or Instagram @cwllandcare
Sheep numbers jump with trade weight lambs $4 to $6 better
CATTLE SALE
Monday, 2 June
Yarding 1192 (up 151)
Numbers li ed this sale with agents yarding 1192 head.
Quality was mixed but fair with some good lines of well bred cattle penned along with the secondary and plainer types.
The usual buyers were present and competing in a rm to better market.
Yearling steers to feed li ed to sell from 345 to 440c/kg for middle and heavyweights.
The few nished types to processors averaged 382c/kg.
The heifer portion to feed was 5c better to receive from 310c to 393c/ kg.
Those to processors ranged in
price from 329 to 380c/kg.
Heavy steers and bullocks were limited and reached 380c/kg.
Grown heifers sold from 290 to 355c/kg.
Cows lost some of last week’s gains with heavy 2 score from 255c to 286c and 3 score 277 to 310c/kg.
The best heavy bull reached 307c/kg.
SHEEP SALE
Tuesday, 3 June
Yarding 39,750 (up 10,400)
Numbers jumped this sale with agents yarding 39,750 head.
Lamb numbers increased to 31,000 and quality was mixed.
There was a handy offering of finished trade and export lambs available along with the
plainer and secondary types.
The usual buyers were present and competing in a rm to dearer market.
Light lambs to restockers sold from $175 to $216/head.
Trade weight lambs 20-24kg were $4 to $6 better to receive from $198 to $268/head.
Heavy lambs to 26kg sold from $250 to $276/head.
Extra heavyweights were rm selling from $260 to $365/head.
Carcase prices averaged from 970 to 1033c/kg.
There was 8750 mutton penned and quality continues to be fair but mixed.
Prices were strong with Merino ewes selling from $110 to $260/ head.
Crossbreds received from $195 to $280 and Dorper ewes reached $272/head.
Merino wethers sold from $148 to $267/head.
FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVESTOCK REPORTING AGENCY
PIG SALE
Friday, 30 May
Another light yarding of sows and boars saw prices rm on last fortnight.
Bacon were also in short supply, prices improved $10 - $20 per head.
Pork were in short supply, prices remained rm on last fortnight.
A good quality yarding of mainly lighter suckers saw prices drop $5$10 per head.
VC REID SMITH LIVESTOCK
agents yarding 39,750 head. Lamb numbers increased to 31,000 and quality was mixed. PHOTO: File
Families enjoy movie under stars
With face painting, games, and a host of food vendors,
Children were enjoying the playground from early, while the
served up popcorn and fairy floss. As the sun went down, the inflatable screen went up and families enjoyed the screening of the Australian
Saige and Ryder Maguire were all rugged up and ready for the movie night.
Glen McKenzie, with Declan, Nathaniel and Jade, enjoying some of the yummy food on o er before the movie.
Georgia and Ryan Wood gave approval to the amazing fairy floss.
Emma Edwards-Fernando holding little Khanna.
Sofia Kimber was all set up with her beanbag.
PHOTOS: Renee Powell
Forbes Youth Action Team’s Indrie O’Connell, Chloe Little and Lexie Hoy mastered the fairy floss machine.
Council’s Forbes Youth Action Team hosted a brilliant twilight family movie night at Nelson Park.
the scene was set for a great night for families.
Youth Action Team members
movie Runt.
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
1 What is an elementary particle present in every atomic nucleus (6)
8 Which item of clothing is worn in cold weather (8)
9 What are dirigibles also called (6)
10 What do we call a visionary person (8)
11 Name another term for a fiddle (6)
12 What is a present known as (4)
13 Name a renowned Australian novelist, etc, Patrick ... (5)
16 When one takes notice, one does what (5)
19 Name a crazed, earlier Roman emperor (4)
21 Who is known as the Great White Shark, Greg ... (6)
22 Name a chequered board game (8)
23 To have in mind, is to do what (6)
24 To be treated with nitric acid, is to be what (8)
25 What is a demand for a repetition of a song, etc (6)
DOWN
2 Name a favourite of Queen Elizabeth I, Sir Walter ... (7)
3 What is a pattern, mould, or the like (7)
4 To be nuzzling, is to be doing what (6)
5 What is an alternative term for width (7)
6 Which term describes leaves in general (7)
7 What are representations carved in stone or wood (7)
13 Which soft material is used for stuffing, packing, etc (7)
E-QUATIONS
14 What are young children called (7)
15 What are puzzling things (7)
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.
17 To be eccentric, is to be what (7)
18 A plumber is also called a what (7)
20 To be in agreement, is to be what (6)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
2 JURATORY (a) Pertaining to an oath (b) Learned in law (c) Pertaining to natural or positive right
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:
Allow (3)
Check cost (5)
Darlings (coll) (7)
Dead animal (7)
Early old english (3)
Expel (5)
Horse command: ...-up (3)
Momentous (5)
Strongly aggressive girl (coll) (5)
Vacant space (3)
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
A good day for croquet
CROQUET
Aussie Croquet was played on Saturday 31 May 2025, the last day of autumn. A good number in attendance and the day was enjoyed by all who played.
There were three games won on the day by Kevin Rubie, Cheryl Toohey, David and Peter West. Well done to all those players.
Close scores of 14/13 on the day were recorded by Colleen Liebich & Marie Spry who defeated John Farah & Enid Baker, Cheryl Toohey & Harley Stewart def Elvy Quirk & Neil Hawke, Rex Toole & John Farah def Frank Donohoe & Barry White, Ray Burridge & May Jones def Kevin Wenning & Colleen Liebich, Cheryl Toohey & John Farah def John Browne & Marie Spry.
14/10 scores as follows: Cheryl Toohey & Kevin Rubie def Barry White & John Browne, John Browne & Peter West def Ros Rennick & Neville Spry, Kevin Rubie & Bill Scott def Robin Pols & Enid Baker, Sally Perry & May Jones def Geo Coles & Rex Toole.
14/11 scores were: Neville Spry & Ray Burridge def Bill Scott & Sally Perry, Harley Stewart & Neil Hawke def Rex Toole & Kevin Wenning, Robin Pols & Peter West def May Jones & Geo Coles, Kevin Rubie & Neville Spry def Frank Donohoe & Ros Rennick, Elvy Quirk & Robin Pols def Barry White & Neil Hawke, David West & Colleen Liebich def Bill Scott & Harley Stewart, Enid Baker & Peter West def Kevin Wenning & Ray Burridge.
There were also some runaway scores recorded: David West & Elvy Quirk defeated Ros Rennick & Frank Donohoe 14/9; Geo Coles & David West defeated Sally Perry & Marie Spry also 14/9.
It was great to see Neil Hawke return a er a lengthy break. Welcome back Neil.
On Tuesday 2 June Golf Croquet was played with only a small number in attendance. Some are not so well and others away enjoying a holiday break.
It was great to see Julie Wood back playing a game of croquet.
Three games on the day were won by only one player and that again was Kevin Rubie. Well done Kevin.
Close scores of 7/6 on the day were recorded by the following: Bill Scott & Kevin Wenning defeated John Farah & Peter Mackay, Margaret Dent & Mal Smith defeated Ray Martin & Frank Donohoe, John Farah & Neville Spry defeated Geo Coles & Peter West, Graham Falconer & Bruce Toole defeated Ray Martin & Jan Palmer, Graham Falconer (solo) defeated Neville Spry (Solo), Vince Roberts & Marie Spry defeated Lyall Strudwick & Julie Wood.
9/4 scores as follows: Vince Roberts & Enid Baker def Julie Wood & Colleen Liebich, Kevin Rubie & Evelyn Mahlo def Mal Smith & Julie Wood, Peter Mackay & Frank Donohoe def Peter West & Kevin Wenning.
The winter season is now with us and starting time has been altered to 9.30 am with arrival by 9.15am to get your names in the draw.
Just to let croquet players know, John Cole is back in Forbes hospital and if you have a spare minute he would love to see some familiar faces. John has not been so well for quite some time.
Winning trebles for trainer, jockey at Warren races
RACING
8/5 scores as follows: Bruce Toole & Geo Coles def Evelyn Mahlo & Neville Spry, Kevin Rubie & Jan Palmer def Peter West & Sue Wade, Lyall Strudwick & May Jones def Ray Martin & Graham Falconer, Lyall Strudwick & Marie Spry def Enid Baker & Peter Mackay, Kevin Wenning & May Jones def Margaret Dent & Frank Donohoe, Bill Scott & Colleen Liebich def Sue Wade & Vince Roberts, Julie Wood & Geo Coles def John Farah & Ray Martin, Margaret Dent & Kevin Rubie def Mal Smith & Sue Wade.
This notice is to advise that I Kristina Norcic have never had any association in both a personal and or a professional context in the past, present or foreseeable future with regards to the NSW Police, nor with any members and or associates both past and or present. This is not withstanding my accessing public service, government department as a general member of the community. I reinstate anyone bearing any representation to making any claims contrary to this statement is false and misleading and I take no responsibility.
John was a very valued member of our Croquet Club where he served as President and his skill of playing croquet was second to none. The accuracy of his play was almost incredible.
Over the years he has shown so many of our new players how the games should be played. To John, best wishes from all at Croquet and hope you can enjoy better health.
Croquet is a game of skill and judgement, hand and eye co-ordination, a form of gentle exercise and is played by any age group.
If you are interested in a game come down to Halpins Flat on a Tuesday and you will be paired with an experienced player to get to know the ins and outs of the game. Enquiries 0428540272.
By ELVY QUIRK
By COLIN HODGES
Trainer Brett Robb and jockey Clayton Gallagher stamped their authority on the Warren meeting on Sunday with each landing a winning treble.
Gallagher won on Miss Clamorosa ($1.50 to $1.35 favourite) and Rothgate ($6) for Robb while his other winner Myalaby ($6) is trained by Tim McCintosh at Muswellbrook.
Tilly McCarroll who is apprenticed to Brett Robb was aboard Deion the other leg of the Robb stable treble.
Deion ($3.20) favourite) led and held on to win the 1200 metres Warren Shire Benchmark 58 Handicap by a neck from the fast nishing Eilrahc (Clayton Gallagher, $6).
Extended to nine races from the original seven due to the big number of nominations and acceptances, the Warren meeting kicked o before midday with the Stayers Handicap.
There were no doubts about Will To Excel handling the 2400 metres having twice been a winner over the Melbourne Cup distance of 3200 metres however the now 9 year old gelding had been out of form during the summer months.
Ridden by Jake Prac-
ey-Holmes at Warren for Hawkesbury trainer James Ponsonby, WillTo Excel ($26) settled towards the rear of the eld prior to making up signi cant ground from the 600 metres point.
Over the concluding stages, Will To Excel ($26) wore down Joshua (Shannen Llewellyn, $8) to win by a half length.
Di erent tactics by Jake Pracey-Holmes saw Houdini Spirit leading the eld in the 1000 metres Gunningbar Creek Maiden Plate.
Trained at Dubbo by Cindy Monaghan for herself and Tim Moses, Houdini Spirit ($ 13) displayed plenty of ght when defying the opposition for a half neck win over London Boy (Kody Nestor, $3.40).
Transferred to the Garry Lunn stable at Dubbo a er 5 unplaced starts in Victoria, the three-year-old lly Fetes Des Meres was very impressive when winning the 1200 metres Ewenamar Creek Maiden Handicap.
Unwinding with a big run from well back, Fetes Des Meres (Shannen Llewellyn, $4.20) powered to an almost 3 lengths from The Git Up (Clayton Gallagher, $2.70 favourite).
COMING UP: Racing at Dubbo (Kings Hall Silver Goblet) on Friday, Parkes on Saturday and Gulgong on Sunday.
James Claude BROWN “Jim” Passed away 31st May 2025. Aged 65 years. Late of Catalina and formerly of Canowindra. Beloved brother of Kathleen (dec), Helen, Chris and Bruce (dec). Loving Uncle of their families
Jim’s family and friends are respectfully invited to attend his funeral to be held at the Graveside, Canowindra Cemetery commencing at 10.30am on Saturday 7th June 2025. For your convenience, please consider bringing a chair.
6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 The Resident. 3.00 The Goldbergs. 3.30 Jabba’s Movies School Holiday Special. New. 4.00 Frogger. 5.00 America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League. 7.00 MOVIE: The Next Karate Kid. (1994) 9.15 MOVIE: Love Again. (2023) 11.25 MOVIE: Love, Simon. (2018) 1.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Call The Midwife. 1.30 Picasso. 2.30 SSO Simone Young Conducts Elgar & Vaughan Williams. 4.10 The Piano. 5.10 Landline. 5.40 Australian Story. 6.10 Father Brown. Final. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Call The Midwife. 8.30 Midsomer Murders. 10.05 Bergerac. 10.50 Reunion. 11.50 Rage.
6.00 Shopping. 8.30 Better Homes. 11.00 Harry’s Practice. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Escape To The Country. 1.00 Horse Racing. Bob Charley AO Stakes Day, VRC Country Race Day and Oaks Day. 5.30 Animal SOS Australia. 6.00 Dog Patrol. 6.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 1.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.35 Doctor Who. 3.25 Penn & Teller:
5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 7.30 Football. AFL. Round 13. GWS Giants v Port Adelaide. 10.30 MOVIE: Battleship. (2012) 1.05 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Blokesworld. 1.30 Australia ReDiscovered. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Watersport. Offshore Superboats. Replay. 4.00 Storage Wars: Barry’s Best Buys. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 The Americas. 8.00 MOVIE: Jurassic World. (2015) 10.30 MOVIE: Commando. (1985) 12.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Kids’
Club. 7.30 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.10 Chopped Jnr. Return. 8.55 The Piano. 9.50 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 Find My Country House Australia. 1.00 Great Australian Detour. Return. 1.30 Young Sheldon. 2.00 LEGO Masters: Grand Masters Of The Galaxy. 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: No Time To Die. (2021) Daniel Craig. 11.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.55 MOVIE: The Long Dark Hall. (1951) 2.45 MOVIE: The Call Of The Wild. (1972) 4.50 MOVIE: Sitting Bull. (1954) 7.00 Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. Quarter-final. 9.30 Super Rugby Pacific PostMatch. 9.45 TBA. 11.00 French Open Tennis Pre-Show. 11.20 Tennis. French Open. Day 14. Women’s Final. 3.00 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Kitty Is Not A Cat. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 Jordie, Sam & Ted’s Adventures. 11.30 Holistic Living. 12.00 Dream Home. 1.40 Zumbo’s Just Desserts. 3.00 Starstruck. 4.30 Dodger. 5.30 MOVIE: Playmobil: The Movie. (2019) 7.30 MOVIE: Robin Hood. (2010) 10.30 MOVIE: Firestarter. (2022) 12.35 Late Programs.
Australia. 2.30 The Piano. 3.30 Grand Designs UK. 4.40 Walking With Dinosaurs. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Compass. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 The Piano. Final. 8.30 Bergerac. Final. 9.25 Reunion.
(2015) 12.00
Programs.
1.40 Ben And Holly. 2.05 Paddington. 2.45 Fizzy And Suds. 3.00
School. 3.30 Thomas. 4.20 Dino Dex. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Bluey’s Big Play. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.40 Isadora Moon. 6.55 Rocket Club. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Walking With Dinosaurs. 8.50 TBA. 10.30 Abbott Elementary. 10.50 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.15 ER. 3.10 Doctor Who. 4.05 Would I Lie To You? 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 George Clarke’s Old
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Lots of possibilities begin to open up by midweek. Some seem more appealing than others, but wait for more facts to emerge later on before you consider which to choose.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Bravo to the determined Bovine! While others might give up, you continue to search for answers. Expect your Taurean tenacity to begin paying off by week’s end.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) You might want to consider stepping back from the task at hand for a while. This could help you get a better perspective on what you’ve done and what still needs to be done.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Your keen Cancerian insight should help you determine whether a new offer is solid or just more fluff ‘n’ stuff. The clues are all there, waiting for you to find them.
Sunday. 7.00 LEGO Masters: Grand Masters Of The Galaxy. 8.40 60 Minutes. 9.40 The Killer Interview With Piers Morgan. 10.40 9News Late. 11.10 The First 48. 12.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Jordie, Sam & Ted’s Adventures. 10.30 Holistic Living. 11.00 Dream Home. 12.30 Starstruck. 2.00 The Goldbergs. 2.30 Home And Away. 4.30 Baking It. 5.30 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. 6.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: S.V.U. 10.30 Bones. 11.30 Late Programs.
Morning Programs. 12.30 MOVIE: The Ship That Died Of Shame. (1955) 2.30 MOVIE: Southwest Passage. (1954) 4.00 MOVIE: Attack On The Iron Coast. (1968) 6.00 Dad’s Army. 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 TBA. 11.00 French Open Tennis Pre-Show. 11.20 Tennis. French Open. Day 15. Men’s final. 4.00 Late Programs.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) Being ignored is difficult for any proud Leo or Leona, but pushing yourself back into the spotlight might be unwise. Instead, let things work themselves out at their own pace.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Trying to uncover a colleague’s secret under the pretext of showing concern is illadvised. Control your curiosity in order to avoid raising resentment in the workplace.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Expect to hear good news about a loved one. Also, be prepared
PISCES
SSAA news: Sporting clays’ monthly shoot on Sunday
SSAA
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 2025 starting at 8pm.
Results of the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre rimre ri e shoot on Sunday 1 June. This shoot started with a 25m .22 target shoot: John Gorman, 250/250; Bruce Dent, 248/250; Brian Neilsen, 247/250; Dennis Christry, 245/250; Chriss Parris, 246/250; Norm Brook, 246/250; David Morrison, 242/250; Barbara Brook, 241/250; Steve Hindmarch, 241/250; Michael Buttriss, 238/250; Scott Burton, 235/250; Anthony Bratton,
235/250; Walter Wiyepe, 208/250 and Mia Condon, 99/250.
50m Fox target: John Gorman, 250/250; David Morrison, 250/250; Brian Neilsen, 250/250; Steve Hindmarch, 249/250; Bruce Dent, 248/250; Norm Brook, 247/250; DennisChristry, 246/250; Anthony Bratton, 246/250; Scott Burton, 245/250; Chriss Parris, 244/250; Barbara Brook, 244/250; Michael Buttriss, 244/250; Mia Condon, 214/250 and Walter Wiyepe, 167/250.
75m Rabbit target: Steve Hindmarch, 114/120; Brian Neilsen, 112/120; John Gorman, 111/120; David Morrison, 109/120; Anthony Bratton, 104/120; Norm Brook, 102/120; Barbara Brook, 101/120; Walter Wiyepe, 95/120; Mia Con-
don, 92/120; Bruce Dent, 88/120 and Chriss Parris, 52/120.
100m Rabbit target shoot: John Gorman, 118/120; Chriss Parris, 112/120; Brian Neilsen, 109/120; Anthony Bratton, 107/120; Steve Hindmarch, 103/120; Norm Brook, 97/120; Bruce Dent, 92/120; Walter Wiyepe, 77/120; Barbara Brook, 75/120; David Morrison, 66/120 and Mia Condon, 62/120.
The range o cers were: Anthony Bratton, Norm Brook, Brian Neilsen, Mia Condon and Chriss Parris. Scorers were: Steve Hindmarch and Bruce Dent.
The Centre- re ri e shoot was held a er the Rim- re shoot. There were nine in attendance: Steve Hindmarch, Chriss Parris, Mathew
Stock, Robert Stock, Pierre Dalle, David Morrison, Stephen Pietsch, 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 rie shoot (.22 magnum or.17HMR), The next Sunday shoot will be on Sunday 15 June 2025 at 10am.
The next Wednesday shoot will be on Wednesday 18 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.
All events are at the Bedgerebong road range, turn right o Bedger-
ebong road onto Dr. Young Drive.
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 clays will be their monthly shoot this Sunday 8 June 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 and Phil Picker (02) 68516494.
SSAA members should check the face book page for details or changes, also check 2LVR 97.9 FM.
Leaders well ahead of field
GOLF
By SHORT PUTT
BRIGHT sunny conditions on Saturday welcomed the Forbes golfers to the course and brought promise of a day of good scoring. Most players produced the goods but were le in the wake of the leaders who excelled.
The golf competition was a 4BBB Stableford Multiplier sponsored by the Forbes Tuesday Golfers. The eld was down a bit at 56 players but the enthusiasm was certainly high. Most players nished in good time to enjoy the ‘Gol e’ hospitality but unfortunately hot chips were not available.
The winners were the pair of Kim Herbert and Archie Quirk who posted 75 points. They teamed very well but did have a hiccup on the 8th and 11th holes where neither of them performed well and consequently scored zero points on each.
They had a good start when both parred the 1st hole and with a shot each managed a ‘3 for 3 and 9 points’. They also managed an 8-pointer on the 16th when Kim birdied and Archie had a net par.
The runners-up were Wayne O’Neill and Jake LeBrocque with 73 points. They had an indi erent start with only 2-points and a miss but therea er they scored consistently well on each hole. They managed a 9-pointer on the 7th and 16th holes but could only manage a 1-pointer on the last.
The ball sweep went to 54 points, going to: 66 – W Gunn/C Hanrahan; 62 – C Banks/N Ryan; 59 - H SteelePark/ B Tooth; 58 – P Dawson/D Quirk; 57 – H Callaghan/C McMillan, A Rees/P Kay; 54 – T Gri ths/S Kirkman.
There was a lone visitor, being Dylan Hood from Parkes. He was paired with Cooper Byrnes and together nished middle of the eld with 48 points.
The NTP’s went to: 9th – Will Gunn; 18th – Caleb Hanrahan, of whom only Will converted for a ‘2’ and in the process knocked o three other players, none of whom had converted. There were ve 2’s overall with Ecky Dawson dropping a long putt for one on the 18th. The 3rd had the others.
The 3rd hole Super-Pin went to David Quirk. He was in the third last group of the day but nevertheless had only one name to beat. His shot nished at 320cm and was well inside Heather Davidson at 957 cm,
but he was unable to convert. The green must have been hard to hit because nobody else was remotely close.
This format can produce outstanding results on some holes and dismal losses on others. Good scores rely on both partners contributing on each hole, a the ‘Multiplier’ format means that a zero score negates any other score by the partner. One pair were unable to return a card, maybe as a result of outside in uences.
When all goes well a good time can be had, as shown by the leaders. The runners-up were seven points ahead of the third group who in turn were four points ahead of the next group.
The runners-up, Wayne and Jake, may have missed the main prize but they grabbed the ‘Speed Golf’ prize, charging through the eld to get to the ‘Gol e’. But it was not without drama. Their 9-pointer on the 7th was a miracle in itself.
Wayne had put his tee shot down the fairway. But Jake’s tee shot struck a tree on the le and rebounded beyond the 6th tee, and in the process scaring Mark Watts who was putting. Jake then red a shot down the 11th fairway, played to the front of the 7th green, chipped up and sunk the putt for a par and three points. Meanwhile Wayne had played conventionally down the fairway and two putted for three points also. There were some good individual scores out there. The better of our A-Graders were Ecky Dawson and Caleb Hanrahan paired with H/Pro Will who all shot 71 scratch. Brett and Simon were in the penultimate group with Caleb and Will and commented that they were in awe of such good golf. There was no eld for the Sunday Stableford Medley
Here is the news: This Saturday 7 June the Annual ‘Can-Assist’ Charity Day will be held.
This year it will be a shotgun start at 9:30 am, with lunch and prize giving to follow. Handicap and Non-handicap players are welcome. Register a group through the members portal on the website or contact the Pro Shop. Monies raised go towards supporting those members of the local community who are beset by cancer.
The Lachlan Valley District Championships and Pennants will be held at Trundle on Sun 15 June. We need good numbers to represent the Club in the Pennants
teams and to support one of the smaller clubs who have supported us through the year. There is a nomination sheet in the Pro Shop so get your name down ‘pdq’.
Players are advised that the O ce pc is now repaired, and we shall be sending the Annual Membership Renewal Invoices very soon. Because of the delay in the process there will be a grace period for members to pay their membership.
It is crystal ball time:
This Saturday 7 June, the event is a 4-Person Ambrose Medley in aid of the Forbes CanAssist Community help. Sunday and Monday have the usual Stableford Medley comp.
STOP PRESS
There is little doubt that the Betland brothers are amongst the best sporting representative Forbes has ever produced.
Their latest was this week at the Srixon NSW Mid-Amateur Titles played at Tamworth’s City and Longyard courses with both near the lead over the 54 hole major.
John nished fourth overall at seven under par a er rounds of 65 ( ve under at City) followed by 69 (one under at Longyard) to nish with 69 (one under at City) highlighted by an eagle two at a 310 metre par four.
Steve was only one shot behind with rounds of 70 (par at City), 68 (four under at Longyard) to nish with 70 (City) where a double bogey at the last cost him moving several positions up the ladder.
Winner at nine under for the tournament was Luke Humphries from the Goulburn City Club.
Next assignment for the Betland brothers will be the Lachlan Valley individual championship and team pennants to be played at Trundle on Sunday June 15.
VETS GOLF
“I did my bit,” was how Peter Bristol summed up his win in last Thursday’s twin towns vets golf competition played in Forbes.
Reason being the popular Parkes vets president summed up his feelings on how dominating Forbes has been in recent months when it comes to the twin towns shield, and nothing changed last week with Forbes dominating again posting 190 points from their best six individual scores to Parkes’ 181.
Still Peter was happy with his winning score of a creditable 37 points while all was not lost at the trophy table for Parkes with Lindsay Elliott picking up the encouragement award … only on a countback which showed how di cult scoring was for many.
Nearest the pins - 18th A grade Ross Williams (F) while no B grader found the green at the 9th. Ball sweep to 31 points - 34 Ross Williams, (F), 33 Bruce Chandler (F), 32 Nym Dziuba (P), Andrew NorthonKnight (F), 31 Ken Sanderson (F).
Vets golf this week is scheduled for Parkes with o cials from both clubs looking forward to a strong showing a er only 24 played last week. If the golf isn’t A grade be assured the ‘home cooked’ BBQ sausage sanger is.
The damp feeling also caught out Tuesday golfers last week where ‘Pencil Pete’ Schole eld had the
last laugh on Barry ‘Scadger’ Parker winning with 22 points on a countback over the 12 holes.
It was a tight at the nish with others in line for the chocolates where Je Moon, Andrew NortonKnight and Ken Sly all nishing one point in arrears.
Remember ball toss on the stroke of 9am every Tuesday. Young and old, in fact anyone who wants a hit welcome. Some have co ee a er, it all happens Tuesday at the Gol e.
LADIES GOLF By THE BIRDIE
The results begin this week with the competition played last Wednesday May 28.
This match was played with a draw for partners a er play.
This Aggregate Stableford was sponsored by Jill Morgan.
Winners were Jenny Hubbard and Meg Schole eld with 62 points just pipping the team of Jenny Fletcher and Sally Crosby with 61 points on Countback.
Ball sweep winners were Heather Davidson and Shirley Davies, Lynnete Kennedy and Sally Perry on countback.
Pin winners were Shirley Davies on the 9th and Linda Cowan on the 18th green.
Stableford was the play again on May 31s sponsored by AM Ga ney and Lindy Cowan.
Jenny Fletcher was Division 1 winner scoring 33 points with Jenny Hubbard claiming Division 2 with 30 points.
Ball comp winners were Heather Davidson and Robin Lyell. Pin Winners were Wendy Simmons on the 9th green and Heather Davidson on the 18th.
What a way to spend this coming Kings Birthday long weekend but play lots of golf.
Matches set down include on Saturday 7 June the annual Can Assist charity day played as a 4 person Ambrose.
Wednesday 11 June is the Sue Shine Sponsored Stableford played in 1 Division.
June 11 also coincides with a road trippers delight with Cowra’s annual three-day tournament June 11,12,13. Saturday June 14th 4BBB Scratch and Handicap Stroke Championships + NSW Bowl 4BBB Stableford comp Sponsored by Carolyn Duncan.
Sunday is WD Sand Greens Teams & Tournament at Cumnock.
Allan Rees chips the ball onto the green.
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
Minor singles contest heats up
BOWLS
By TARA SHAW CHAMPIONSHIPS
Minor Pairs 2025 Championships are in full swing with majority of Round 2 and already a couple of Round 3 games played.
Phil Hocking leading for Laurie Crouch played the dynamic Eugowra duo of Bruce (Posso) Jones and Cherie Vincent.
Phil and Laurie locking down a 3 on the rst end this was set to be a game scoring large numbers for the win. Posso and Cherie responded very quickly and it was 7-all on 6.
Phil and Laurie hit the lead and hung onto it for 10 ends with the score board showing 20-16.
Posso and Cherie scored a 5 on the next that shot them into the lead and smelt victory. Sprinting to the nish line and winning the game, Posso and Cherie won 24-21.
Bobby Grant and Alan Hilder drew Benny Parslow and Dale Scott. Bobby and Alan were rst point scorers while it took Benny and Dale a little longer to nd their groove. They de nitely found their groove on the h taking out the next sixth ends to lead 12-4.
Bobby and Alan had to pull out all the stops but luck was not on their side when Benny and Dale gaining another 4, it was a hard scoreline to chase. Benny and Dale were victors of the game 24-6.
Minor singles: It was certainly a weekend worth watching for supporters and players with a quarter nal played on Saturday then the winner had to back it up and play a semi- nal on Sunday.
Unfortunately our quarter nal game was delayed by the due date and that’s why the winner of this game needed to play the semi- nal the following day.
Robert (Pooch) Dukes played Je Nicholson in the quarter nal. Pooch needed to give his all and more if he wanted another chance to try his luck again a er being
runner up of the minor singles in 2024.
Pooch got away to great start taking the rst 3 ends and Nicho hit back taking the next 3 to have a 1 point decit.
Pooch was lucky enough to gain two 4’s in the next ve ends to give him a handy lead of 17-5.
Nicho is de nitely not a player you can a ord to relax around when he won the next two ends, one thought this was his comeback tour. Nicho was able to score another 5 points but couldn’t quite close the gap and Pooch advance to the semi- nal winning 25-13.
Our rst semi- nal was played on Saturday between Geo Brown who has been playing in great form in this years championships had to play the very experience Bobby Grant.
A great start by both lads with 3 all on 5 and Geo just creeping in front with the next three ends to lead 7-3.
Bobby wasn’t throwing in the towel early and gained a 3 on the 11 to trail by 1, 7-8.
Geo had a luck streak for the next four ends and scoring a 4 on the 15th certainly helped. Geo again took the next four ends to increase his lead 20-11.
The game was certainly going to be a close one.
Bobby was able to win three of the last four ends but unfortunately couldn’t catch Geo with nal score 14-25 to Geo .
With Pooch winning the quarter- nal on Saturday, Pooch played Dale Scott in the second semi- nal for the minor singles championships on Sunday. 3 all on 3, 4-3 on 4 this was the making of a tight game which displayed some unbelievable bowls.
Dale hit the lead holding the cards 7-6. Dale won the next two ends to put a 4 point gap between him and Pooch. Pooch had to regroup and starting getting more runs on the board and was chasing 5 on the 14th to close the gap.
Dale leading 16-9 on 15, Pooch scored a 3 and 1, getting closer to his target. 21-14 down on 21, Pooch needed to pull out all of his tricks and that’s what he did a scored a 4 to trail 18-21.
Chasing a margin of 3 is within grasp and with a very tight head and no clear way in Pooch had no choice but to drive and kill the end.
Pooch won three of the last four ends and still trailed by 1.
Holding two shots in the
head one would take the points but not Pooch, the skill and delivery of his last bowl Pooch got another bowl in the head to win 3 points and the overall game 26-24.
The nal of the minor singles nal will be played between Geo Brown and Pooch Dukes on Saturday 14th June at 1pm.
SOCIAL BOWLS
Wednesday: A good rollup last week for six games of pairs where Melbourne visitors Susan and Chris Jones were welcomed for Chris to leave as one of the in-club meat tray winners. The other, none other then proli c ra e winner Peter Mackay.
Card draw winners were Tim Everest and Ross Williams 24-11 in 20 ends over Ron Thurlow and Paul Doust. They lost the rst two ends bringing it to 7-all a er nine to dominate from there on.
Runners-up were Phil Hocking and Kerry Dunstan over Sandra Priest and visitor Chris Jones 28-12 in 22 ends. They also nished strong only leading 14-10 at the end of 10.
Ann Mackay and Geo West won 20-16 in 20 over Susan Jones and Noel Jolli e. Must have been something in the water as they also had to nish best coming from 8-12
down a er 10.
Cheryl Hodges and Peter Mackay won 19-12 in 20 over Eddie Gould and the ever young John Baass. Another to nish best down 5-11 at half time.
Sue Smith showed her championship form leading for Billy Cowell winning 2211 over Anne Nixon and Don Cra leading 10-3 at half way of 20 ends.
In the last Bob Grant was ‘on re’ showing his championship qualities leading for Lyall Strudwick winning 23-13 in 20 over Bill Scott and Barry Shine. They had it sown up early, 18-2 a er nine.
Thursday: With two minor pairs championship games being played on Thursday and most of these players are normal Thursday a ernoon bowlers we had very low numbers but still enough for a triples game.
Max Vincent, Tara Shaw and Viv Russell were very unlucky when they played Lyndy Bokeyar, Wayne Burton and Al Phillips. Al’s teams kept their opponents scoreless until the 5th end when they gave away 1 point. They didn’t stop there winning the next 4 in a row to lead 14-1. Dropping a 5 on the 11th certainly did not help Max, Tara and Viv and backing that with a 3, Al’s team were on re. Viv’s team picked up another 8 points but could not catch Al’s team by a long shot with Al’s team winning overall 24-12.
Sunday: 22 players took to the greens in warmer winter weather for Sunday social bowls.
Max Vincent teamed with Ron Thurlow to take on Joyce Gray and Lyall Strudwick. Joyce and Lyall were on re and leader board showed they were 7 in front at oranges. Max and Ron had some sugar at the break but couldn’t climb the ladder fast enough and Joyce and Lyall won the game 18-6.
Darryl Burley led for Al Phillips when they drew Billy Cowell and Peter Mackay. Billy and Peter certainly had
their weetbix for breakfast and that showed when they headed to the break leading 8-2. Gaining a 5 and a 4 Billy and Peter were not taking it easy on Darryl or Al and sprinted to the nish line 218.
Our only triples game of the day was girls vs boys when Kelly Stringer (Dick Sharkey), Tara Shaw and Cherie Vincent came up against Jax Murphy, Juss Sci eet and Viv Russell.
Kelly subbing in Dick Sharky a new bowler to get him familiar and comfortable he did not disappoint. Although the boys had the rst points the girls took over from then They won 4 of the next 6 and went into halftime lead 6-4. Not sure what the boys did at half time but the girls came out guns blazing and won the game 11-7. Peter Greenhaulgh led for Kerry Roach when they drew Terry Murphy and Alan Hilder. This was our closest margin game of the day with Peter and Kerry leading 8-3 on 8. Terry and Alan started to come back to level on10 but Peter and Kerry had other ideas and rushed to the ne line 15-10.
Our last game was played by Tyler Murphy and John Cutler the victors when they played Trish Todd and Mick Merritt. Tyler and John found their groove early and went into the half-time break leading 7-3.
Winning ve of the last eight ends Tyler and John high jumped the nish line 15-8.
Resting touchers: Peter Mackay and Lyall Trudwick. Raspberries: John Cutler and Max Vincent
Winning Rink: Rink 6, Tyler Murphy and John Cutler. Losing Rink: Rink 3, Jax Murphy, Juss Sci eet and Viv Russell.
Jackpot draw winner: Jax Murphy.
Chicken ra e winners: Peter Greenhalgh, Joyce Gray, Billy Cowell, Jax Murphy, Pooch Dukes, Brett Davenport, Ron Thurlow, Al Phillips, Juss Sci eet.
Hardys in control of comp at half way mark
SQUASH By DROP SHOT
Results of Week 5 of our Autumn competition.
Wednesday May 28
Teams, it’s the half way mark and Hardys are in control with 95 points, Jones follow on 89, Markworts are third for 71 and Cogswells nish this week with 68 points. There’s plenty of time le to shu e the team deck.
Highlights: Hunter Bilsborough hit gold to claim rst set 15-13 against Ellie Cowhan but Ellie tightened her grip and pulled the next set her way 15-11.
Ellie was ahead in the third but Hunter regained control for a solid win nishing with two 15s to Ellie’s 11, 8.
Youngsters Lucas Jones and Nate
Markwort lled the scoresheet for four exciting sets, the closest being the third which Lucas lost 16-18. But he bounced back to take the win 1511, 15-10. Great match guys.
‘Wons to watch’: Robey McMillan is gaining momentum with a fourth win, three being 3-0 victories.
Court one: Jones v Cogswells 20 points to 15.
Cooper v Chris 6-1, Lucy Robinson v Bec Jones 2-5 and Noah Brown v Luke Bilsborough 1-6. Court two; Markworts v Hardys 11 points to 10.
Harry Bilsborough v Lindy Cowhan 1-6 and sub R McMillan v Shane Moxey 6-1.
Thursday evening
Teams: Millers are still up front on 124 points, Dawes with 111 have soared from h to second place, H
Krosses next for 106 then Pipers 104, J Krosses 91 and nally Jones on 89.
Highlights: Sub Chris McQuie with experience plus, played seasoned campaigner Lawrey Brayne in a very equal ve set showdown.
Chris was the grinning winner here scoring three 15s to Lawry’s two 15s and a 13.
Now folks, John Ridley knows just where to hit a squash ball and Brett Thomas seems to know just where John’s gonna hit it, so a big match was predicted between these two and was delivered.
A er four tough sets John had the win this time 16-14. Very entertaining fellas.
Wons to watch: Adam Chudleigh’s had a good run winning four matches from four starts.
Other results, Court one was not well attended. H Krosses v J Krosses 17 points to 4. Henry v Jay 6-1, Claire Bayley v Steve Allegri 5-2 and Deb Bryant v Ken Bryant 6-1.
Court two: Dawes v Millers 27 to 22.
Ollie v sub Sam Hornery 6-1, Jake Shaw v Dan Bayley 6-1.
Big hitter - Scotty Webb was full on, dispatching t, court sprinterMax Ridley 3-0, Alex Bayley v Garry Dempsey 1-6, Tony Trotter v sub T Welsh 1-6 and T J Markwort v Tim Welsh 3-4.
Court three: Jones v Pipers 12-16. Max v Darryn 1-6, Mark Webb v Lockie Jones 1-6 and Sandy Paterson v Pete Cowhan 6-1.
This week’s draw: Team 6 v 3, 4 v 2, 1 v 5 both nights.
Minor Singles semi-finalist Robert (Pooch) Dukes on the greens.
PHOTO: Supplied
Cooper and Craig Kelly on the Forbes squash court.
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
Riders put their skills on show
BY MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
FORBES Pony Club has held another successful Charlie O’Connor Showjumping Day and Gymkhana.
Riders from around the region including Eugowra, Grenfell, Gulgong and Condobolin made the trip to Forbes to compete in the annual event.
On Saturday, the Charlie O’Connor Showjumping and Dressage event was held with with grade champions as followed:
B grade: Lachlan Hausler
C grade junior: Audrey White
C grade associate: Amy Brennan
D grade junior: Lilly Eagles
D grade associate: Amy Brennan
E grade junior: Elsie Galvin
A er riders put their showjumping and dressage skills on display Saturday it was gymkhana time on Sunday.
The gymkhana saw riders competing in their age groups in events such as riding class, best presented, horse sporting, dressage and jumping.
Riders who won reserve and champion for their age group are as followed:
Under 7: Champion Lucy Kennedy
7 and under 9: Champion Elsie Galvin and reserve champion Eleanor Kennedy 9 and under 11: Champion Audrey White and reserve champion Caitlyn Eagles
11 and under 13: Champion Abi Bembrick and reserve champion Ava Baker
13 and under 15: Champion Isla Combe and reserve champion Hayley Hampton
15 and under 17: Champion Lillian Eagles and reserve cham -
pion Thomas Livermore
Associate: Champion Alisher Koke and reserve champion Amy Brennan
Forbes Pony Club said a highlight of their gymkhana was the John Stewart Memorial Barrel Race held at the end of the day.
This is a long running event which remembers a local champion and sportsman, John Stewart, who was passionate about horseriding and excelled in all areas of riding.
The event sees riders with the top ve barrel runs of the day compete for the John Stewart Memorial trophy and rug.
Abi Bembrick from Forbes Pony Club was the winner with an awesome run time of 21.14 seconds.
Following Abi was Alisher Koke in second, third Caitlyn Eagles, fourth Allira McIlrick and h Chloe Magill.
Younger riders who are on the lead even got to test their skills on Sunday in the beginners ring.
They participated in events such as pony with the longest tail, pony with the shaggiest coat and an egg and spoon race on horseback.
“Our little riders and their ponies, some tiny, some huge, showed us how it was done and we think the beginners group de nitely enjoyed themselves,” Forbes Pony Club said.
“We had a bit of everything so they could show us their skills and they were up for the challenge. Thanks to our little riders for coming along and making the day special.”
Eugowra Pony Club also had a successful weekend at the annual Forbes Pony Club event with riders Isla Combe and Austin Maslin.
Isla took out 13 and under 15 age champion at the gymkhana on Sunday winning her events from riding class to barrels.
“We are proud of Isla and her riding going from strength to strength,” Eugowra Pony Club said.
“Thank you Forbes Pony Club for a lovely day at the gymkhana. Isla and Austin had a lovely day and enjoyed riding with friends.”
Forbes Pony Club reported it was a huge day at their annual gymkhana.
“All of the riders rode so well, and everyone should be super proud of themselves and their ponies.
“Thank you to our judges who volunteered their time to support our little club and to all the parents who helped, your assistance does not go unnoticed and these days would not happen without you,” Forbes Pony Club added.
Audrie White on Bennie, 2nd in Bending and Barrels, with Adelaide Conron on Noah, 1st Bending, 3rd in Barrels and Flags.
Lucia Billsborough on BB with Forbes Pony Club President Luke White.
Bethanie Eagles on Mackie.
PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham
Caitlin Eagles on Pepper.
Elsie Galvin on Vinnie in the E Class jumping.
PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham
Audrey, Danielle, Georgia, Charlotte (riding Penny) and Shannon Markwort.
Madi West on Lectro had a very successful Beginners Day, pictured with mum Mel West.
Eagles’ derby efforts intense
Canowindra Tigers gained late momentum to claim the win in the local derby over Eugowra’s Golden Eagles on Saturday.
On a beautiful day with a good crowd at the Canowindra ground, Tigers took the rst grade win in a well-contested game that only had two points in it for much of the second half.
The neighbouring teams sit in sixth and seventh on the Woodbridge Cup ladder a er Round 7 and the game was tipped to be a good one.
Eugowra was coming o a win over Orange United Warriors in the rst OAMS Cup at Ian Walsh Oval in Round 6 - but were le nervous early in Round 7 as the Tigers established an early lead.
The hosts put rst points on the board just seven minutes in, working their way up to the 20 metres out where a beautiful kick by the ve eight was captured with a big leap from James Dine on the wing and he scored out wide to lead 4-nil.
There was some good play from both sides, both teams tackling with ferocity, but it was Canowindra who dominated early scoring twice more to lead 14-0 with 12 minutes to go in the rst half.
Then Eugowra’s Dayne Hamilton crossed the try-line for his side and suddenly it was the visitors with some momentum.
They added two more tries to level the scores at 14-all as the teams headed to the sheds, setting up for a thrilling second half of rugby league.
The rivals went try for try in the second half – a kick the difference as Eugowra led 14-18, Canowindra came back 20-18, Eugowra responded to make it 20-22, and Canowindra leap-
frogged to be 24-22.
The Golden Eagles were applying plenty of pressure with just 12 minutes le on the clock when Josh Cooney broke through to extend Canowindra’s lead.
The Tigers had the momentum again and they delivered with some beautiful football in the nal minutes to put put Bailey Kennedy over in the corner. The kick was good to put the icing on a 34-22 win.
CANOWINDRA TIGERS 34 James Dine (2), Duwayne Mariner, Jaye Fuimaono, Joshua Cooney (2), Bailey Kennedy EUGOWRA EAGLES 22 Dayne Hamilton, Bryce Park, Noah Girot-Serplet, Ponipate Komai.
YOUTH LEAGUE
CANOWINDRA TIGERS 26 Jason McCann, Colby Burling, Archie McDonald, Noah Brown, Thomas Berkrey EUGOWRA 6 Sanjay Buttle
LEAGUE TAG
CANOWINDRA TIGERS 0
EUGOWRA GEAGLES 10 Kirbie Mongan, Evie Barnes
FootyNRL TIPPING
gave Eugowra some momentum.
PHOTO: Renee Powell
RUGBY LEAGUE
Magpies fire up
IT’S the June long weekend and for local rugby league fans that means arguably the biggest day of the year.
Forbes Magpies make the road trip north to Parkes to take on the Spacemen this Sunday 8 June and the anticipation is high.
Forbes dominated the two clubs’ Round 1 meeting but with the bene t of that contest, the Magpies’ rst grade captain Nick Greenhalgh reckons the rivals have got each other’s measure.
The Spacemen will be hungry to get their own back – not only for that Round 1 but a er Forbes got the chocolates for the rst time in years in the 2024 long weekend clash.
“I expect a much tighter contest than Round 1 and I know that they’ll be ready to go at home,” Greenhalgh said.
The Magpies are coming from back-to-back wins on their home ground at Spooner Oval: rst grade last week locking in 44-20 win over Bathurst St Pat’s last Sunday despite what Greenhalgh described as a slow start and some scrappy sections.
“But our contact and everything else, and winning the ruck, has really improved the last couple of weeks,” Greenhalgh said.
“We’ll need that against Parkes as they’ve got some bigger mobile forward and some quality outside backs so it’s going to be a challenge.”
Long weekend derby beckons
Importantly, they came out of the clash without injuries and a full-strength squad is expected to be available for selection for this weekend.
“I think we get Jake Porter back this weekend – he’s got a couple of things to tick o but he’s looking really good,” Greenhalgh said.
“I think we’re pretty much full strength if he’s in … No excuses.”
Not that the Magpies will be looking to make any.
Anticipation is building amongst fans and players alike, the town talking about the Mapgies’ form and looking ahead to this weekend.
Acknowledging it might cause dad Cameron Greenhalgh some selection headaches, Nick is glad everyone has the chance to play this weekend.
Grand nal aside, it’s probably the biggest crowd most of the team have played in front of and the atmosphere is like none other in the local rugby league.
It’s a day that’s been noted on the calendar since the start of the season, for those who love it, for the returning players who have missed it for the past few years, and for those new to the club.
With two quality sides lining up and the Porter brothers in
black and white, Greenhalgh expects this year to be as big or bigger than ever.
“It’s exciting, it gets you motivated to play well and I think the boys are going to be really excited,” he said.
All the action is at Parkes’ Jock Colley Field on Sunday 8 June.
Kick o in the league tag is scheduled for 10.30am, with under 18s listed to follow at 11.30, followed by reserve grade and the rst grade xture agged for 2pm.
While Forbes completed a clean sweep of all four grades in Round 1 of the 2025 competition at Spooner Oval, Greenhalgh knows “that’s easier said than done”.
Still he’d love to see Forbes fans there to back the club for a full day of footy.
The mood in the club this season is excellent, with 1oo –150 people at post-game presentation on Sunday nights.
“We did preseason with the whole club this year and that brought everyone together,” Greenhalgh said.
Getting to Parkes early is really the only way to ensure you’ve got a good spot to watch the action.
“You nearly want to take the car over Saturday night to get a decent spot,” the captain laughed.
But seriously, get there and cheer on all grades for Forbes.
