FA20250626

Thursday, June 26, 2025

CHARLIE WINS

3

$20.2m for new theatre

Good news in NSW Budget for Forbes

Forbes’ new operating theatre has been funded in the 2025-2026 State budget.

Planning for the new and upgraded theatre will begin in coming months after $20.2 million was allocated to the project in the NSW Budget, announced on Tuesday.

The funds will build a new contemporary operating theatre and support spaces, incorporating integrated and virtual care technology, budget documents say.

State Member for Orange Philip Donato welcomed the announcement: Forbes’ need for a new operating theatre was one of the priority projects for the electorate he presented to Parliament.

“NSW Health Minister Ryan Park has fully supported my budget priority to fund a new surgical theatre at the Forbes Hospital, with $20.2m being allocated in the budget to bring this facility up to modern spec and meet the growing demands on this medical facility,” Mr Donato said.

Mr Donato and Forbes Shire Council brought NSW Health Minister Ryan Park to Forbes to meet health staff and see the theatre in 2024.

A total 771 surgical procedures had been carried out at the health service in the 2023-2024 financial year, in an operating theatre more than 50 years old.

Mr Park also visited the maternity ward and birthing suite which is catering for mums from Parkes and the region.

Forbes Shire Council has been lobbying for a new operating theatre for years.

Local doctors told The Advocate in 2021 that the existing space wasn’t big enough to accommodate all the equip ment needed in a modern theatre and didn’t even have enough power points.

Speaking from the Australian National General Assembly of Local Government in Canberra on Tuesday, Mayor Phyllis Miller warmly welcomed the budget announcement.

■ Continued page 4

FIRE SHOW WOWS FROST AND FIRE CROWD

A crowd of more than 2000 has gathered at the ski dam for Frost and Fire 2025, the event drawing locals as well as visitors from far and wide. The fire show is always a highlight of the night and this year Flux Entertainment (pictured) thrilled festival-goers. More pages 8 and 9.

PHOTO: Jenny Kingham

Your top shots can support preschool

Rotary Ipomoea is hosting its first photography competitionfor a cause, of course - and this is the perfect opportunity for locals to showcase that photo that makes you look twice.

Anyone can enter their photos.

They can be printed off on a home computer.

Rotarians ask that photos not be framed, just mounted onto cardboard for easy display.

There are no size restrictions. No entry fee for photography entries.

The exhibition is on Saturday 5 July, and will be held in the Club Forbes Function Room.

Rotary Ipomoea members will accept entries right up to the morning of 5 July.

You can book your entry in by emailing or just bring them to the club between 9am and

WHAT’S ON in and around Forbes

PCS PRESENTS MARY POPPINS

Opening Thursday, 26 June

Parkes Christian School’s newest production is Mary Poppins and it is shaping up to be a production not to miss. Evening shows will be held from 26 and 28 June with the matinee being held on June 29. Tickets online trybooking.com

FARMERS MARKETS

Saturday, 28 June

Forbes Farmers Markets are on this Saturday. Get your fresh regional produce at Victoria Park between 8am and midday.

HOME GAMES

Saturday, 28 June

It’s a big day for Forbes Rugby Union Club with home games for both juniors and seniors. Come on down to Grinsted Oval and cheer on the Platypi, day concludes with first grade kicking off at 3.15pm.

VOLUNTEER MORNING TEA

Monday, 30 June

Local volunteers are invited to a morning tea hosted by Forbes Shire Council to celebrate your contributions to the community of Forbes, as well as your commitment and passion. It’s at Alex Caravan Park from 10.30am. Please RSVP by Wednesday 25 June to Forbes Shire Council on 6850 2300 or community@forbes.nsw.gov.au

FORBES COMMUNITY

NAIDOC CELEBRATIONS

Friday, 4 July

From 12pm to 4pm at the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre gather together as a community to celebrate NAIDOC Day. A march will leave South Circle Oval at 12pm and will end at the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre.

PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION

Saturday, 5 July

Get out those smart phones and cameras, Forbes, Rotary Ipomoea is hosting its first photography competition to raise funds for Forbes Preschool’s speech and language programs. Entry in the competition is free, you can print your photos out, mount them on a piece of cardboard and bring them down to Club Forbes between 9am and 11am on Saturday 5 July. The exhibition

11am. If you’re coming in at 9am, bring photos in through the door on the Victoria Park side.

Judging is from 12noon to 2pm. Rotarians have three independent judges for this event.

The five sections that people can enter in are varied giving lots of options for finding a section for your favourite photos. The sections are: Landscape, Portrait, Animals/Birds, Travel, Focus on Active Forbes, Farm Life/Machinery.

Rotarians really wanted to add the Focus on Active Forbes section because that way people when they are out and about in our town can take some action shots, maybe on the footy field or guarding the soccer goals or climbing the AMAZING sign or marching on ANZAC Day. This section really will be hard to

opens 2pm for community viewing, it’s just $5 for adults to view the exhibits, with presentation of awards at 5pm.

KARAOKE PARTY

Friday, 4 July

Come on down to Club Forbes for karaoke from 7.30pm to 10.30pm Friday.

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL TOUR

4 - 6 July

The Good Old Days of Rock ‘n’ Roll is an exciting and memory-riddled show and it’s hitting stages in Orange, Dubbo and Bathurst. From television shows including Johnny O’Keefe’s ‘Six O’Clock Rock’ and Brian Henderson’s ‘Bandstand’, so many talented performers and recording stars were born. Audiences will relive all the fabulous original hits from the hitmakers themselves - Little Pattie, Digger Revell, Jade Hurley, Dinah Lee and Lucky Starr. Shows are at Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre on Friday, 4 July, 2pm, Orange Civic Theatre on Saturday, 5 July, 2pm, and Dubbo Regional Theatre on Sunday, 6 July, 2pm.

CIRCUS WORKSHOP

Monday, 7 July

Join a fun-filled two-hour circus workshop at the Youth and Community Centre on Monday 7 July from 10am. The session includes a Mini Circus Skills Show, a 90-minute handson skills workshop, and a chance to show off and tell what you’ve learned. From juggling to balancing tricks, it’s perfect for beginners and budding performers. Only 30 spots available, register online through Forbes Shire Council forbes.nsw.gov.au Go online to forbes.nsw.gov.au to council’s What’s on for all school holiday activities.

JOURNALISTS

Renee Powell 0448 238 023

rpowell@midwestmedia.com.au

Brendan McCool 0448 238 254

bmccool@midwestmedia.com.au

CLASSIFIEDS (02) 6342 1044

ROTARY INDOOR MARKET

Saturday, 12 July

www.forbesadvocate.com.au

judge! We are hoping for great variety.

The exhibition will be open at 2pm for public viewing of the exhibits and sponsorship has been achieved for first and second prize in each section.

Photographers and all community members are encouraged to come and view the exhibition between 2pm and 5pm - entry just $5 for adults - with awards to be presented at 5pm.

You can find out more by PH: 0439 708 456 or 0427 201 445 E: mtnewell@bigpond.com or by looking at more information on the Rotary Club of Forbes Ipomoea Facebook page.

The photography competition is raising funds to support Forbes Preschool’s speech and language work to help local children be best prepared for starting kindergarten.

SPEED NETWORKING

Thursday, 10 July

Rotary’s July market will be at the Youth and Community Centre from 8am to midday. This is a market to celebrate winter indoors with a coffee van, Rotary breakfast caravan parked out side and stalls inside for our community to enjoy produce, plants, handicrafts, collectables, soap, jewellery, cakes and slices, jams and relish ,books, crafts ,collectables from a wide range of local stall holders. Phone to book a stall on 0427 201 445.

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

TAYLOR SWIFT AND KATY PERRY KIDS TRIBUTE SHOW

Tuesday, 8 July

This exciting show is coming to Club Forbes in the school holidays!

The Taylor Swift and Katy Perry KIDS Tribute Show has been carefully programmed by a primary school teacher to provide a fun and memorable first concert experience for kids with a live band and DJ experience.

It brings tribute singers in costume to the stage to sing Taylor Swift and Katy Perry’s greatest hits. It’s on from 2.30pm to 5.30pm on Tuesday 8 July. Tickets online now through123tix.com.au

classifieds@midwestmedia.com.au

ADVERTISING

Michelle Brown 0429 421 044

mbrown@midwestmedia.com.au

Central West Inspired Women are hosting a free event at Club Forbes from 6 to 8 pm, with support from Inland Rail and Forbes Shire Council.

Registration is open online now through events.humanitix.com

TRIVIA NIGHT

Saturday, 2 August

Eugowra Community Children’s Centre presents a trivia night fundraiser to support the rebuild of its service. There’ll be raffles, an auction and lots of laughs. Doors open 6pm for a 6.30pm start at the Showground Pavilion. Tickets on sale and food orders available through 123tix.com.au

CENTRAL WEST BIRD EXPO

Saturday, 2 August

The annual Central West Bird Show will be at the Forbes Showground. Public entry is $2 per person with kids under 12 free. The bird sale is open to the public from 10am to 2pm unless sold out prior. There will be trade stalls, food vans, raffles, education stands and more on the day.

FORBES MOTOR SHOW

Sunday, 5 October

Save the date, the Forbes Motor Show is returning to South Circle Oval on Sunday 5 October 2025. Plan your entries now in bikes, cars, boats, vintage machinery, trucks and tractors. Gates open 8am for registration. There will be food, drink and merchandise stalls. Entry will be just $2 an adult, $1 a child.

“Hurry up and take the photo, my leg is killing me!” Have you got a pic that makes you smile or look twice? Enter it in the Rotary photo competition on Saturday 5 July.

National WorldSkills bronze for Charlie

Charlie Spry has claimed bronze at the National WorldSkills Championships for primary industries.

After winning the regional competition for primary industries in November last year, the year 12 Red Bend Catholic College student has put his skills to the test on the national stage in Brisbane.

Charlie’s skills and knowledge were tested over four sections of primary industries including livestock, tractors, fencing and chemicals with each section consisting of a practical and theory element.

The primary industries competition was held over two days and saw Charlie competing against the best primary industries students across Australia.

“The national competition was very similar to the regional competition that was held at Red Bend, so I was familiar with what I would be required to do,” Charlie said.

“However the WorldSkills competition as a whole was such a unique experience, with more than 60 trades represented and thousands of visitors to the competition over the three days.”

NSW claimed gold, silver and bronze in the primary industries competition with Dominic Edwards from Yanco Agriculture High School claiming gold and Angus Pursehouse from St Gregory’s College claiming silver.

“There was some really tough competition from the NSW competitors as well as competitors from other states so being awarded bronze was a big surprise and to have NSW claim all three medals was brilliant.

“It is an honour just to be standing up there with the other boys from my team, everyone put in a huge effort.”

Charlie said he is very grateful for his teachers and parents who helped him make it to the podium.

“Red Bend has been incredibly supportive of my studies, particularly Mr Col Hawthorn, Mrs Laura Tandy and Mrs Susan Earl.”

Over the course of the competition Charlie’s highlight was meeting numerous people in the industry and making connections for his future and new friends.

“The competition was a fantastic experience and I would highly recommend it to anyone who has the opportunity to compete,” Charlie added.

Red Bend agriculture teacher Laura Tandy said Charlie worked extremely hard to prepare for the event.

“Winning regionals was one thing, but going up against the best in the country is quite the other,” Laura said.

“Thanks to his teacher Col Hawthorn and the agriculture team at the College for helping with training Charlie, he was a pleasure to work with and totally deserves his award,” Laura added.

By STEPHANIE GARDINER, AAP

Molly Ticehurst’s family and friends have gathered in hope of seeing her accused murderer face court, only for his case to be delayed again.

Daniel Billings, 30, was due to face Parkes Local Court on Friday morning, charged with the domestic violence murder of Ms Ticehurst.

During a brief mention in May, Magistrate Michael Maher ordered Billings to appear in court via audio-visual link for a committal. It would have been the first time Billings, who is in custody in the supermax wing of Goulburn jail, has appeared since June 2024.

But as Ms Ticehurst’s parents and a large group of relatives and friends watched on from the small public gallery, the court was told Billings would not appear and the matter was adjourned until August.

Deputy senior crown prosecutor Lee Carr SC and Billings’ Legal Aid solicitor Diane Elston briefly discussed a subpoena.

Ms Ticehurst, a 28-year-old childcare educator, was found dead in her home in the early hours of April 22, 2024.

Billings, her former boyfriend, is charged with her domestic violence murder, along with 16 other offences.

He had been freed on bail by a local court registrar a fortnight before the alleged murder on charges related to Ms Ticehurst Billings has not entered pleas.

Ms Ticehurst’s death intensified a national campaign against domestic and gendered violence.

The movement sparked changes to NSW laws, including stripping registrars of the power to grant bail, “show cause” thresholds for domestic violence-related bail applications and electronic monitoring for accused people.

Billings’ case returns to court on August 15.

Support services available to the

Police, Health swoop and seize contraband products

Police have seized an estimated $15,000 of illegal cigarettes, tobacco and e-cigarettes in compliance checks including on Forbes businesses, carried out with NSW Health.

Police and health swooped on tobacco retail premises after receiving information concerning the sale of contraband tobacco and related items.

A significant quantity of illegal cigarettes, loose tobacco and vapes were seized from two local premises, Chief Inspector Scott Rayner,

Forbes police, said.

A third store was found to be compliant.

The compliance checks were carried out on the same day as a high visibility police operation in Forbes, with police targeting drug and property offences as well as traffic-related offences.

One person has as a result been charged with possessing a knife and house-breaking implements, as well as being in breach of their bail conditions.

Another two people are facing

traffic-related charges.

Police, with a drug detection dog, carried out eight person searches, two vehicle searches, 10 random drug tests and 320 random breath tests during a big day in Forbes. They also conducted four bail compliance checks.

Police are now investigating what appears to be break and enter with intent to steal at a storage facility.

Chief Inspector Rayner said offenders have forced entry to 11 units at a storage facility, but at time of preparing for press police had

not been advised of items stolen.

The break-in has occurred between 3.30pm on Sunday and 8.30am on Monday.

As always, anyone with information that can help police with any of their inquiries should contact Forbes police on 6853 9999 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

In regional news, in December last year officers from Central West Police District established Strike Force Goovigan to investigate the ongoing supply of illicit drugs in the Parkes area.

On Tuesday, officers executed search warrants at a number of homes.

Police will allege that seized from the homes were illicit drugs consisting of methamphetamine, cannabis, cocaine and gamma-butyrolactone.

Two gel blaster pistols were also located.

Two men are facing charges, a 27-year-old was refused bail to face Parramatta court on charges relating to drug supply, weapons and dealing with proceeds of crime.

Sip

From the mayor’s desk: 2600 tickets to amazing event sold

By MAYOR PHYLLIS MILLER OAM

ment Forum on Tuesday.

Forbes records coldest June morning in 27 years

By CHRISTINE LITTLE

If you thought it was chillier than usual over the weekend your senses were right.

Forbes experienced its coldest June morning in 27 years on Saturday when the Bureau of Meteorology’s thermometer dropped to a frosty -5.5 degrees at 7am at the airport.

Though it felt more like -8.2, the Bureau says.

Well we certainly got the frost part right for our sixth annual Frost and Fire on Saturday.

It was a very frosty morning on the day of our sixth annual amazing event of live music, good food, friends and fire buckets - Frost and Fire 2025.

Despite the cold, we all rugged up and huddled around more than 20 fire pits and the amazing effigy bonfires lit later in the night.

It was great to see so many of you there and to support local and bigger musical acts in a regional setting.

Thanks to the more than 2600 people who bought tickets, many of whom travelled from out of town.

We had ticket sales and attendees from as far away as Melbourne and Tasmania.

A fire bucket, friends and live music – is there any better way to spend a frosty winter’s night?

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

It has been an honour to attend the National General Assembly in Canberra this week and host the 2025 Regional Cooperation and Develop-

The forum addressed challenges and potential solutions for regional, rural and remote areas. We had the pleasure of guests such as demographers to discuss trends shaping regions, mental health and road safety.

The theme this year was National Priorities Need Local Solutions and we were able to spotlight the way Councils are leading the way, delivering unique and place-based solutions to address housing pressures, build safer roads, increase resilience to natural disasters and build community wellbeing.

POLICE PRESENCE

It was hard not to notice the very visible presence of a lot of police in Forbes last week. There were several operations conducted, including one on the Newell Highway and several tobacco shop compliance checks.

Police reported a range of searches, drug tests, ADVO compliance checks and charges laid for possessing knife and housebreaking implements.

Thank you for the focus on the Forbes area and the greater region.

southern end of Mary Street

• Site 3 – Caravan/Holiday Park: 3.28ha 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).

Speed Networking

It’s the coldest it’s been, in June at least, since 1998 when temperatures fell to -6.4 degrees on 19 June - which is the town’s coldest June temperature on record when recording began at the location 29 years ago.

It’s also the coldest morning in Forbes in almost seven years since -6.4, also, was recorded on 16 July, 2018.

And it’s three degrees cooler than Forbes’ long term minimum monthly average of -2.5 degrees.

July’s coldest temperature on record is -6.7 and August is -5.4.

Forbes has had 10 mornings of freezing temperatures so far this winter, with possibly a couple more coming before the end of the month.

Though it was a shock to the system on Monday morning when the day’s

lowest temperature came in four to seven degrees warmer than the weekend at 2.4 and Tuesday a big jump to a minimum of 13 degrees after a downpour of 9.6mm between 4am and 7am.

And the maximum temperatures for the last few days have been a balmy 18.5, 20.2, 20.4 and 19 degrees from Saturday to Tuesday respectively. Over in Parkes temperatures dipped to -3.9 last Friday morning and while any records were far from being broken, it was still the coldest start they’ve had since 20 July, 2023 when it was -4.

And the Bureau recorded a six degrees as Parkes’ minimum temperature on Monday which also jumped to a minimum of 12.5 degrees after a 14.2mm downpour between 4.30am and 7.30am.

New operating theatre in NSW budget

■ From page 1

“This is a significant investment in healthcare for our region and marks a significant milestone that will enhance the medical facilities and services available to residents of Forbes and the surrounding region,” Mayor Miller said.

“The new hospital theatre will be equipped with stateof-the-art technology and designed to meet the highest standards of modern medical care.

“It will significantly ex-

Central West Inspired Women are hosting a free event at Club

Forbes from 6pm to 8pm, with support from Inland Rail and Forbes Shire Council. Includes a welcome drink, light refreshments, and guided conversations to help you make real connections.

Date: Thursday 10th July 2025

Time: 6pm to 8pm

Venue: Club Forbes Seats are limited, so registration is essential!

Volunteers Morning Tea Let us say thank you to our #amazing local volunteers!

Local volunteers are invited to a Morning Tea to celebrate your contributions to the community of Forbes, as well as your commitment and passion.

Date: Monday 30 June 2025

Venue: Apex Caravan Park

Time: 10.30am - 12pm

Please RSVP by Wednesday 25 June to Council on 6850 2300 or community@forbes.nsw.gov.au

Forbes Community NAIDOC Celebrations

Forbes NAIDOC Committee and Forbes Shire Council are excited to announce the Forbes Community NAIDOC Celebration.

This event will feature Official Ceremony with Smoking and Dancing, Award Presentations, BBQ, cultural activities, arts and crafts and interactive displays.

Date: Friday 4th July 2025

Time: Gather at South Circle at 11.50am to march together to Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre.

Any further information please contact Council’s Event Officer via email : events@forbes.nsw.gov.au or phone 68502300.

pand the hospital’s capacity to perform a wide range of surgical procedures, reducing wait times and improving patient outcomes.”

A new operating suite for Forbes District Hospital will mean we can continue to offer minor day surgeries, ENT, other specialities, as well as obstetrics as the primary birthing unit in the Lachlan Health District.

The Council has developed several initiatives, including housing, to address barriers to sustainable

health services for our community.

Forbes District Hospital is dedicated to delivering comprehensive healthcare services to the Forbes community and surrounding regions.

Mr Donato thanked the Minister for spending time in genuine consultation with the region’s health staff.

“I want to take this opportunity to shout out to our hardworking doctors, nurses and staff and Forbes Hospital for all they do in

caring for their community,” Mr Donato said.

In other budget news, a surgical robot for Orange Health Service has not been funded in the 2025-2026 Budget, and Mr Donato said he would work diligently to unravel the decision.

“I will continue to work with the Health Minister and the NSW Government, seeking to improve regional health capabilities with innovative health infrastructure - such as a surgical robot,” he said.

2025 National BBQ Championships

Become the 2025 National BBQ Champion | National and Local teams competing | Grilling and Smoking

Date: : Saturday 18 & Sunday 19 October

Venue: : Grinsted Oval, Forbes

Join us for two days of competition - grilling + low and slow smoking

Bar + live music + food trucks + major cash prizes + cooking

demonstrations + celebrity chef + BBQ stalls

Sponsorship opportunities, Nominations for Grilling and Smoking Teams, Food and Beverage Vendors, Stall holders, Markets Stalls and Exhibitors EOI - Now All Open! or you would like to be a judge for the Australian Alliance Barbecue Smoking Competition. Please email events@forbes.nsw.gov.au for more information. Follow National BBQ Championships Facebook page for regular updates.

Polystyrene recycling is now available at the Forbes Recycling and Waste Depot!

Council has partnered with Green Planet Recycling Solutions to offer polystyrene recycling to Forbes residents. You can now drop off polystyrene for free into specialised collection bins at the Forbes Recycling and Waste Depot, 7 days a week, from 8:30am to 5:00pm.

Only CLEAN polystyrene is accepted. Small foam materials, such as beads for bean bags, must be contained when placed into the collection bins. No labels or tape, No biodegradable foam kernels or natural plastic packaging materials (e.g., corn starch). Once collected, the polystyrene is cleaned, processed, and melted into blocks or pellets. It is then prepared and ready to be sent away for recycling and repurposing into new products, such as picture frames, contributing to the circular economy.

July School Holiday Program

Circus Skills Workshop

Monday 7th July

10.00am

incredible frosty scene over Eugowra was captured by The Fat Parcel’s Judd McKenna, the business celebrating five years this month. PHOTO: Judd McKenna

Trial of Ben Hall is back by popular demand

The Trial of Ben Hall will be back by popular demand in August.

May 2025 marked 160 years since the bushranger’s death and the Forbes Shire Council Heritage Advisory Committee was inspired to mark the occasion with the performance of a unique local play.

Ben Hall was of course shot dead without a trial and is buried at Forbes Cemetery.

Then local solicitor Dominic Williams wrote The Trial of Ben Hall for the inaugural Ben Hall Festival, and it was rewritten for Law Week in 1986.

Mr Williams said he hoped it would entertain and educate about Ben Hall, “whose name continues to grow in Australian legend as a folklore hero, more wronged against than wrong himself.

“I trust the Trial of Ben Hall will not only entertain and educate but lead to a better understanding of the enigma that was Ben Hall – it being the trial that Ben Hall never received,” he wrote in 1986.

When the play was brought back to the stage this year, the one-night-only performance by local volunteers booked out

within 24 hours. On the night, it was a hit.

Now the Forbes Shire Council Heritage Advisory Committee will present the play again on Saturday 2 August and Sunday 3 August.

Everyone is encouraged to come along and find out the imagined past if Ben Hall had been given a trial and discover more about our notorious Mr Hall, who was in fact the first person in Australia to be declared a bushranger.

The audience is encouraged to fully participate in the evening: to react to the good and the bad,

to the police bias and inequity in the court process.

Jurors will be selected from the audience on the evening of the performance so audience members are invited to dress in period costume.

No one knows the outcome of the judgment until the night - the cast has prepared for both guilty and not guilty findings.

The play will be presented in the former St Andrews Church at 5pm on the Saturday, and 11am on the Sunday.

Tickets $10 or $5 for pensioners, online at www.123tix.com.

Council to install more lights in Lawler St

Five new street lights are to be installed in a dark part of Lawler Street after a decision of council.

Multiple community requests about inadequate lighting on the stretch of Lawler Street between Bedgerabong Road and Riley Street had come to council in the past 18 months, staff reported to councillors at their June meeting.

They voted to reallocate $35,000 in unused funds from the year’s kerb and gutter budget to install five solar-powered street lights in the area.

Street lighting is currently limited to the intersections at either end of Lawler Street, leaving the middle section poorly illuminated, the report before councillors explained.

With most of the parking across the street from the businesses in the area, it presents a safety risk for people crossing.

Adding three lights on the western side of the street and two on the eastern side would significantly improve safety, the report to councillors said.

Pending delivery, council staff should be able to install the lights in July.

Engineering Director Richard Jane said one of the benefits of the solar lights was that council staff could install the lights, and did not have to wait for specialists.

The first solar powered street lights in Forbes are performing well, Acting Director Engineering Danial Speer told councillors, the council has been monitoring their performance.

Lewis Wilde as Ben Hall is led into the “courtroom” in the first performance of The Trial of Ben Hall.

Father’s day raffle tickets on sale now

Hi to all our Sunshine Club members.

With the cooler weather we are having a $2 sale on ladies clothing.

Our ladies coats are from $5.

Our menswear and children’s wear are at normal prices.

A sale has also commenced on our crockery.

This sale is on all stock excluding the glass cabinets and crystal.

At our annual general meeting on 13 June, 2025, Molly Neilsen stepped down as president.

Cindy Allen has been voted in as president for the next 12 months.

Molly Neilsen is vice president, Nygarie Bilsobough is secretary, Lorraine Allen is treasurer, Emma Sinclair is media officer for Facebook and Maureen Bale is media officer for the Forbes Advocate.

Our father’s day raffle tickets are on sale in our Op Shop in Templar Street in Forbes.

Tickets are $1 each and are available Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 9am to 3.30pm.

A big thank you to Lawry from Shead and Nicholson who repaired our lighting.

Birthday wishes go out to Computor Wizz, Arlie Mon, Fezz, Robbie, Marko’s Dale, Johnno, Heidi Adele Mac, Harley Riders’ Michelle, Jingling Jen’s Tone, Mark the Whinger, Rego Check.

Happy birthday to you all.

Our next monthly meeting will be held on 1 August, 2025 at 10am.

Hope everyone is healthy and safe.

Till next time, Reenie.

Donato’s Matters of State

By PHILIP DONATO, STATE MEMBER FOR ORANGE

POLICE MINISTER RESPONDS TO FORBES’ PETITION

NSW Minister for Police, The Hon. Yasmin Catley MP, has now responded to the Forbes Neighbourhood Watch’s petition, which called for a 24-hour manned police station at Forbes, to reduce crime in the community.

I regret to inform that in the minister’s response, she said, “There are currently no plans to change the manned hours.”

I understand that the minister’s response will be met with disappointment from the Forbes community, and that it does not meet

reasonable expectations of many locals.

Given that police resourcing and deployments are driven and directed by statistics and crime data, I strongly encourage all Forbes locals to contact police where appropriate and make reports – however minor or trivial it may seem. If police do not respond in a reasonable timeframe, contact my office - and I will promptly follow this up.

Having said this, I am sure you all will agree that the men and women in blue on the frontline do a fantastic job, despite being overworked and under-resourced. We truly appreciate them.

BILL REFERRED TO INQUIRY

Why did I vote against the NSW Government’s Workers Compensation Legislation Amendment Bill 2025?

My perspective is quite balanced; having parents who owned and operated a business, and having been both a private sector and public sector employee - I can see both the benefits and drawbacks of this proposed reform from both sides.

I acknowledge the need for reform to improve the care and support of injured workers, and I accept that the current workers compensation is financially unsustainable, however I could not reconcile with the Government raising the threshold for Whole Person

Impairment (WPI) of psychological injuries from 15 per cent to now greater than 30 per cent to qualify for certain benefits, including continued weekly payments beyond the initial five-year period.

If passed into law, this legislation would leave a lot of psychologically injured workers insufficiently supported for their disablement, and I could not in all good conscience vote in favour of it.

In the speech I delivered in Parliament, I made my position clear.

I am pleased that the bill has now been referred to a parliamentary committee for an inquiry and report, which is a prudent step to be undertaken before furthering such impacting legislation.

Eugowra VIEW: New members welcome

EUGOWRA VIEW CLUB

Eugowra VIEW Club held their June meeting at the Fat Parcel, where members were welcomed by President Irene.

Guest speaker was new member Jeanie Fordham, who entertained members with a condensed story of her life. Helen Watchorn moved a vote of thanks to Jeanie on behalf of members.

Items of interest discussed at the meeting included:

(1) Invitation to members for a meet and mingle at Mudgee where members have the opportunity to meet the state president.

(2) Esther has sent cards

and phone messages to those in need. Please let Esther know of anyone in need.

(3) Delegates report: Sharon gave a comprehensive report from the National minutes.

(4) Our 17th birthday party to be held at the Catholic Church Hall on Saturday 19 July starting at 1.30pm. RSVP by 10 July.

Cost is $30 which includes the Fashion Parade, wine and nibbles and afternoon tea, raffles (to purchase) and lucky door.

The colour theme is blue. For information contact Kay on 0428 592 321. Everyone welcome.

(5) Birthdays for the month Irene and Alison (6) Raffle winner Kay. New members will be very welcome – just contact any member.

Eugowra VIEW Club enjoying their lunch meeting.

Community event to say thank you, Forbes

CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes (CCWF) is inviting all community members and service providers from the town to its Thank You, Forbes Community Event on Wednesday 2 July.

The occasion is a small gesture of appreciation for all those the organisation has worked alongside since the 2022 flooding in the town and its surrounds.

At its worst in November 2022, the Lachlan River peaked at 10.7 metres at Forbes, flooding more than 700 residential and commercial properties in the town.

CCWF, in particular its Financial Stability team, has provided practical support and stood with community members as they negotiate the long-term and wideranging consequences of flooding in the two-and-a-half years since.

CCWF Financial Stability portfolio manager Louise Cormie said the organisation was holding the event to thank all the community members who had placed their trust in her team, as well as the service providers who had worked with them to provide support.

“We want to take a moment to say thank you, and celebrate the wonderful people in our community as they work towards recovery,” Mrs Cormie said.

“We are grateful to be part of this community, and want the community to know we are with them for the long journey of re -

We are grateful to be part of this community, and want the community to know we are with them for the long journey of recovery from natural disaster.

- LOUISE CORMIE, CATHOLICCARE WILCANNIA FORBES

covery from natural disaster.

“Flood-affected residents can continue to contact our financial counsellors for support, advocacy and referrals.”

The event, to be held in the Forbes Town Hall from 11am-2pm, will include a barbecue meal, fruit platters and soft drinks, and a gift for every attendee, as well as lucky door prizes.

Forbes Shire Council’s GIVIT team and the Disaster Response Legal Service will also be attending and ready to support community members.

“We are looking forward to coming together with the community for a relaxed and enjoyable event on July 2,” Mrs Cormie said.

In its planning, the CCWF team has ensured the event is giving back to the community – the lucky door draws on the day will feature prizes CCWF has purchased from local businesses.

CCWF, established in 1996, is the

official social service of the Catholic Church in the Diocese of WilcanniaForbes.

Its services are offered to the whole community, regardless of religious belief or background.

The CCWF team is passionate about making a real difference in people’s lives and works to empower individuals, families and communities.

CCWF’s strength is wraparound support for clients, which it is able to provide because of the broad range of programs it delivers.

From CCWF’s Forbes branch, available support includes the portfolio areas of financial counselling and capability, parents and children, mental health and wellbeing, homelessness and domestic, families and relationships, and Aboriginal families and communities.

The CCWF Forbes branch is located at 136 Lachlan Street, and to speak to the team by phone, contact 6850 1777 or 1800 067 067.

Imogen Smith and Maggie Walker.

Malary Jeffress, Mitchell Coombs and Courtney Turner.

Sophie, Amanda and Claire Brown.

Rachel Nicholson, Teresa, Hayden, David and Olivia Janssen.

Lorena Blacklock of Condobolin with Gillian Drew from Collector. Christensen.

Suzie Norris and Maci Coburn from West Wyalong at the Silent Disco. PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

few fans also took the chance to catch up with Frost and Fire ambassador and Bogan Gate’s very own comedian Mitchell Coombs.

Wolfe Brothers headline incredible night

an incredible night’s entertainment at

and

As crowds gathered at the ski dam, they enjoyed incredible live music from Ripley Alexander and The Baker Boys, after regional bands Easy Goin’ and Foxxy Cleopatra got the party started.

Flux Entertainment thrilled the audience with their pyrotechnics, Forbes Shire Council’s Youth Action Team had their own party with a silent disco, and Cirque Um Navigate roamed the venue delighting festivalgoers of all ages with their

Matthews Williams

Philip Klingner with Daniel and Beth Heard and Joanne Barnard.

Cirque Um Navigate delighted festival-goers of all ages with roving entertainment. PHOTO: Courtesy Forbes Council

Jessica Fail with Abel, Keanau and Ashton Robinson enjoying Frost and Fire 2025.

Dooley Thompson and Shell Bell Quigley emceeing the night.

Frost and Fire ambassador Mitchell Coombes. PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham

Wolfe Brothers headlined

Frost

Fire.

giant bubbles, slinky man and stilt-walking.

Flux Entertainment wowed festival-goers of all ages.

6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. McKell Cup Day, Caulfield Winter Race Day and Tattersall’s Tiara Raceday. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 7.30 MOVIE: Ford V Ferrari. (2019) Matt Damon, Christian Bale. 10.40 MOVIE: Baby Driver. (2017) 1.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 Drive Launch Pad: Driven By Design. 1.00 Great Australian Detour. 1.30 Find My Country House Aust. 2.30 LEGO Masters: Grand Masters Of The Galaxy. Final. 4.00 Explore TV. 4.30 Cirque Du Soleil’s Corteo: From State To Arena. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: Barbie. (2023) 9.50 MOVIE: Crazy, Stupid, Love. (2011) 12.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.10 GCBC. 12.30 The Brighter Side: Save. Grow. Dream. 1.00 Roads Less Travelled. 1.30 The Yes Experiment. 2.00 Start Me Up. New. 2.30 Food Trail: South Africa. 3.00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 3.30 Farm To Fork. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 Everyday Gourmet. 5.00 News.

6.00 Shopping. 8.30 Better Homes. 11.00 Harry’s Practice. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Escape To The Country. 3.00 Better Homes. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 6.00 Every Bite Takes You Home. New. 6.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 1.30 My Greek Odyssey. 2.30 Creek To Coast. 3.00 Weekender. 3.30 Late Programs.

8.05 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 8.55 Anne Edmonds: What’s Wrong With You? 10.00 The IT Crowd. 11.10 ER. 11.55 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Motor Racing. Hi-Tec Oils Super Series.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00

2.30

3.15 Nigella Bites. 3.40

Islands Of

4.40

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Drag Racing. NDRC Nitro Funny Cars. Nitro Champs. 4.00 Storage Wars: Barry’s Best Buys. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 Pawn Stars. 9.30 American Pickers. 10.30 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success. 12.30 Wife Swap Australia. 2.00 Australia’s Cheapest Weddings. 3.00 Zumbo’s Just Desserts. 4.00 Jabba’s Movies School Holiday Special. 4.30 Dodger. 5.30 MOVIE: Vivo. (2021) 7.30 MOVIE: 50 First Dates. (2004) 9.30 MOVIE: Never Been Kissed. (1999) 11.45 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Helping Hands. 10.30 My Favorite Martian. 11.00 Skippy. 11.30 Edgar Wallace Mysteries. 12.50 Avengers. 2.10 MOVIE: I’m All Right Jack. (1959) 4.20 MOVIE: It’s A Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World. (1963) 7.30 MOVIE: King Arthur: Legend Of The Sword. (2017) 10.00 MOVIE: Lethal Weapon 3. (1992) 12.25 Late Programs.

Dinosaurs. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Compass. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Spicks And Specks. 8.00 Bay Of Fires. 8.55 Little Disasters. 9.45 MOVIE: The Tracker. (2002) David Gulpilil. 11.20 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. 11.45 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 2.30 Mister Maker Around The World. 3.00 Play School. 3.35 Daniel Tiger’s. 4.20 Dino Dex. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Daniel Tiger’s. 7.00 Andy And The Band. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Walking With Dinosaurs. 8.50 Secret Life Of The Tasmanian Devils. New. 10.25 Abbott Elementary. 10.45 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.10

ARIES (March

Show By AFN. 1.00 Fishing Addiction. 2.00 Fishy Business. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 16. Richmond v Adelaide. 6.00 The Wash Up. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: Deadpool 2.

strong will. Your keen instincts will guide you well.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) A misunderstanding is easily cleared up. Then go ahead and enjoy some fun and games this week! Meanwhile, a Libra might have ideas that merit serious consideration for the future.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) You might feel as if you’re in an emotional pressure cooker, but the situation is about to change in your favor. Take time out for some well-earned fun!

Fishing Australia. 1.30 Business Drive. 2.00 Ski Rescue Down Under. 3.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 17. Gold Coast Titans v North Queensland Cowboys. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Travel Guides. 8.30 60 Minutes. 9.30 The Wrong Man: 17 Years Behind Bars. 10.50 9News Late. 11.20 The First 48. 12.10 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 7.30 In Touch. 8.00 Beyond Today. 8.30 The Incredible Journey. 9.00 Turning Point. 9.30 TV Shop. 10.00 AFL Sunday Footy Show. 12.00 Getaway. 12.30 MOVIE: Mutiny On The Buses. (1972) 2.30 MOVIE: War Drums. (1957) 4.00 MOVIE: The 7th Dawn. (1964) 6.30

MasterChef Australia. 1.10 My Market Kitchen. 1.30 Cook With Luke. 2.00 All 4 Adventure. 3.00 Good Chef Bad Chef. 3.30 Farm To Fork. 4.00 Lingo. 5.00 10 News. 6.00 The Dog House Australia.

The Closer. 12.00 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Get Arty. 10.00 Jordie, Sam & Ted’s Adventures. 10.40 Behave Yourself. 11.50 Australia’s Cheapest Weddings. 1.00 Baking It. 2.00 Home And Away. 3.45 Dancing With The Stars. 5.30 Extreme Animal Transport. 6.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal

LEO (July 23 to August 22) A shift in your workplace responsibilities creates

VIRGO (August

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Be careful: What appears to be a solid financial opportunity might have some hidden risks attached. In addition, a hazy personal matter needs to be cleared up.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) It’s a good time to strengthen ties with family

Compensation claims-knowing your rights

A worker who suffers an injury during the course of their employ ment is entitled to bring a claim for compensation.

The compensation can cover:

• weekly benefits while you are unable to work or only fit to perform suitable duties

• reasonably necessary treat ment and medical expenses

• impairment compensation if you suffer from a certain level of ‘whole person im pairment’.

However, at times, it is not all as easy as it seems. Some of the main challenges which we see injured workers face include:

Late claims

The formal claim for workers’ compensation benefits is required to be made within 6 months of the injury occurring.

The worker can still make a claim after that 6-month period, but the insurer needs to be convinced that the failure to lodge the claim was due to an error, ignorance of the 6-month period or other reason able excuse.

Unapproved treatment expenses

Even for accepted claims, dis putes can arise as to whether or not a specific type of treatment is ‘reasonably necessary’. The Act also requires any treatment to be approved by the insurer before it is performed.

If treatment is not pre-approved, the insurer can refuse to reimburse the cost of it.

Approval of treatment expenses involves obtaining sufficient medical evidence to prove that the treat-

fied fit for some types of duties, the insurer may perform a ‘work capacity decision’. This is a process whereby the insurer decides about what the injured worker could theoretically earn, despite his or her injuries.

or remote areas where the job mar ket is limited.

Level of whole person impairment In order for an injured worker to have an entitlement to compensation for permanent impairment compensation, he or she is

manent Impairment’. Assessments using these guides can often differ between doctors. These medical disputes are usually referred to a Medical Assessor appointed by the Personal

RMB Matthew Williams Lawyers has a team of lawyers available to help. Please contact us for a free consultation on freecall 1800 681 211 (Monday – Friday, 9.00am –5.00pm) or email rmb@rmblawyers.com.au.

Injured throughno fault

Be involved with NAIDOC celebrations

By MARG APPLEBEE CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE

Central West Lachlan Landcare are thrilled to be working with representatives from the Parkes Wiradjuri community to deliver the 2025 Parkes NAIDOC Cel ebration.

National NAIDOC celebra tions are traditionally held in the first week of July.

The Parkes NAIDOC event will be held on Saturday, 20 September 2025, between 10am and 2pm at Bushman’s Hill Wiradjuri Amphitheatre.

Central West Lachlan Landcare are pleased to be able to contribute coordination support to bring the event together with the fabu lous committee of contribu tors lead by the Parkes Wir adjuri representatives.

We are thrilled to have Northparkes Evolution Mine

National NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth.

You can support and get to know your local Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities through activities and events held across

NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee. Its origins emerged with Aboriginal groups in the 1920′s, seeking to increase awareness in the wider community of the status and treatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aus-

The Parkes NAIDOC event will provide free activities for families, including face painting, weaving, jumping castles, performances and other activities. We will also have lots of food to share on

A special inclusion for the event will be the presentation of NAIDOC Awards to local people who have been

supporting and encouraging building a rich cultural framework within our community as well as celebrating young and emerging leaders within our community. We are seeking involvement from local organisations to be involved in the day. If you are part of an organisation that provide a service locally that would be relevant to the ethos of the event, please make contact with me.

We are fortunate to have several other contributors to the day, providing support with services and with other contributions.

I look forward to sharing more about these contributors in the months ahead.

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

Sheep prices ease with heavyweights ranging from $255 to $390/head

CATTLE SALE

Monday, 23 June

Yarding 884 (down 375)

Numbers fell this sale with agents yarding 884 head.

Quality was mixed with mostly feeder cattle penned with both well bred and secondary types presented.

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

Yearling steers to feed were firm to 5c dearer. Middle and heavyweights sold from 390 to 468c/ kg.

The few finished types to processors received from 388 to 400c/kg.

The heifer portion to feed ranged in price from 300 to 416c/ kg for middle and heavyweights with breed causing the spread.

Better grain fed heifers to processors sold from 341 to 410c/kg. Grown heifers sold from 289 to 368c/kg.

Cows were 5 to 10c better with heavy finished cows from 278c to 335c and plainer types receiving from 275 to 285c/kg.

The best heavy bull reached 300c/kg.

SHEEP SALE

Tuesday, 24 June

Yarding 34,300 (down 16,500)

Numbers dropped sharply this sale with agents yarding 34,300 head.

There was 26,600 lambs penned and quality was back from the previous sale with both less finished lambs and less weight yarded.

Not all the usual buyers were present and competing in an easier market.

Lambs were up to $10 easier reflective of quality.

Trade weight 20-24kg sold from $295 to $262/head.

Heavy lambs to 26kg received from $252 to $288 while extra heavyweights ranged from $255 to $390/head.

Carcase prices averaged from 980 to 1030c/kg.

Mutton numbers fell with 7700 yarded and quality continues to be mixed.

Prices eased with Merinos ewes selling from $120 to $248/head. Crossbreds received from $138 to $265 with Dorper ewes reaching $252/head.

Merino wethers sold from $130 to $222/head.

FROM MLA’s NATIONAL LIVESTOCK REPORTING AGENCY

STORE CATTLE SALE

The Forbes store cattle sale will be held on Friday, 27 June at the Forbes Central West Livestock Exchange commencing at 10am.

Numbers dropped sharply at Forbes’ sheep sale on Tuesday with agents yarding 34,300 head.

PHOTO: File

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

4 Name a prized fine wool (6)

7 What is a crack, gap, or other opening (8)

8 What is a sculptured image of a person (6)

9 Which crystallised violet quartz is used in jewellery (8)

11 What are facial expressions (7)

13 Which oil is used in making paints (7)

15 Name a short cord for securing something (7)

17 Name a tall, long-necked, spotted ruminant (7)

20 Which chair has arms that support elbows (8)

23 What is a tonsorial artist (6)

24 Which steroid hormone promotes masculine characteristics (8)

25 To decapitate, is to do what (6)

DOWN

1 What is junk mail, sent via the email (4)

2 Which term implies that something is free of cost (6)

3 What is a moral obligation (4)

4 When one encounters someone, one does what (5)

5 Name a champion Australian tennis player, Patrick ... (6)

6 What do we call the hours of darkness (5)

9 To be affected with pain, is to be what (6)

10 What might we call one who deals in leather (7)

12 Name an eight-legged predatory arachnid (6)

14 What, perhaps, describes the hoi polloi (6)

16 What are rough, coarse, or uncouth persons (6)

18 To be silly, is to be what (5)

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.

19 Name the unit of electrical capacity (5)

21 Which term describes a method (4)

22 When one chills something, one does what (4)

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

WHICH WORDS

(c)

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:

Afro-American musical form (5)

Board of Studies (3)

Break apart (5)

Determined (3)

Drags vessel ashore (5)

Fifth note (3)

Multiplies by two (7)

Six (comb.Form) (3)

Spiral (5)

Weaknesses of character (7)

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

Coach, umpire mentors for netballers

NETBALL

The Forbes Netball Association committee has been very busy, combining with Netball NSW to bring the NNSW Coach workforce and Umpire workforce to Forbes members.

James Mulcare from Eastwood Ryde, and part of the NNSW Coach workforce team has attended two regional carnivals, at Orange and West Wyalong, to mentor the FNA representative coaches as they prepare their teams in competition ahead of the NNSW Junior State Titles.

James worked with each coach, combining to put the finishing touches to the FNA representative teams of 12s, 13s and 14s.

Last weekend, National A Badged umpire Shelley Hutchinson and Mi-

Sporting

By TONY BRATTON

chelle Ensore, both part of the NNSW Umpire workforce team, travelled to Forbes to present a Beginner Umpire session to FNA members.

The session was extremely well received by both young and experienced members, where they were coached and given knowledge to blow their umpire’s whistle in a game situation.

James, Shelley and Michelle are part of the FNA Committee improvements in playing and umpiring standards, so all members can enjoy playing netball to their full potential.

Last week NNSW Schools Cup was played in Forbes, where 400 players played for the day, representing their schools in both primary and secondary divisions for both boys and girls.

The day was a great success, with Red Bend Catholic College making a clean sweep of the secondary divisions, and St Laurences Primary Forbes and Wellington St Marys taking out the primary school mixed divisions. These teams now compete in Orange in September in the region finals.

The next event for FNA is the NNSW Junior State Titles. The committee, coaches, umpires and parents have been working extremely hard to prepare teams for three days of intense competition in Penrith.

The NNSW Junior State Titles is one of the largest junior sporting events held in Australia, where Forbes NA will be represented by three teams and four umpires.

shoorters news and results: White tops G300 target shoot

Results of the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre rimfire rifle shoot on Wednesday 18 June.

The weather was cold with light breeze from the south east at 6kph and a temperature of 14 degrees.

The results of the 25metre G300 target shoot were Damien White, 298/300; Bruce Dent, 296/300; David Morrison, 295/300; Charlotte White, 293/300; Dennis Christey, 290/300; Jeff Hunter, 288/300; Doug Shead, 286/300.

50m Fox target: Bruce Dent, 250/250; Damien White, 250/250; Charlotte White, 250/250; David Morrison, 248/250; Jeff Hunter, 248/250; David Sanderson, 242/250; Dennis

Christey, 242/250 and Doug Shead, 240/250.

75m Bear target: Bruce Dent, 115/120; Dennis Christey, 114/120; Jeff Hunter, 112/120; Damien White, 112/120; Doug Shead, 112/120; Charlotte White, 91/120 and David Sanderson shot practice only.

100m Bear target: Charlotte White, 113/120; Damien White, 108/120; Bruce Dent, 106/120; Doug Shead, 102/120; Jeff Hunter and David Sanderson shot practice only.

The range officer was Anthony Bratton.

Scorer was Anthony Bratton.

The next S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre and other rimfire rifle shoot (.22 magnum or.17HMR).

The next Sunday shoot will be

held this Sunday 29 June at 10am. This will be the second round for the rimfire shield trophy.

The next Wednesday shoot will be on Wednesday 2 July at 2pm.

The Centre-fire rifle shoots start at 2pm after the Rim-fire shoots on Sunday, Centre fire shoots start at 2pm names in by 1.30pm so the targets can be placed on the Centre-fire range just after 1.30pm. This will be the second round for the centrefire shield trophy.

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

All target shooters are welcome to attend. Any person wishing to try Rim-fire or Centre-fire rifle or shotgun shooting can take part after filling out

a P650 form at the club, Junior shooters must be 12 years or over.

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

The next shoot for the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting clay’s will be their monthly shoot on Sunday 13 July starting at 10am. This shoot will be a 100 target field shoot. If wet a five stand shoot will be held.

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. Any person wishing to obtain a

long arm firearm licence can contact Wayne Facey on 0414524059; Norm Brook on 0458664541; Tony Bratton on (02) 68523349 to do a firearm safe shooting assessment course which is a requirement for a firearm licence application.

Local Range rules apply to the Forbes SSAA range.

SSAA members should check the face book page for shoot details for dates and times and cancellation of shoots due to wet weather, also check the local community radio station 2LVR 97.9 FM.

Members are remined that the ByMonthly meeting for August will be held on Wednesday 13 August at the Forbes Sport and Rec club starting at 8pm.

from the Netball NSW Umpire Workforce ran a beginner umpiring day for Forbes Netball. PHOTO: Forbes Netball Association

Dawson, Betland dominate 4BBB

MEN’S GOLF

By Short Putt

The weekend produced sunny days after chilly starts which encouraged the Forbes golfers delay their starts but enjoy the day. This approach produced some good scores.

The competition on Saturday was the 4BBB Stroke and Handicap Championships, sponsored by Glen Yarra Ag. The field of 61 players were evenly spread through the day and were all keen to do well. The good scores were stand outs but players still had difficulty reading the ‘borrow’ on both the greens and fairway.

The winners of the 4BBB Scratch Champs were the pair of Peter Dawson and Steve Betland who finished with a scratch 66. They were ‘chalk and cheese’ in their individual scores but Ecky was on hand to fill the gap when Steve had a stumble, for example on the 6th where Ecky chimed in with a birdie.

Scratch Runners-up were the pair of Archie Quirk and John Betland. They managed a scratch 69 and nabbed the spot on count back from Caleb Hanrahan and Tim West.

Archie and John had similar partnership to the winners with Archie starting well with a par on the 1st. But thereafter it was mainly the ‘tall’ John making the score ahead of the ‘short’ Archie.

The Handicap Winners were Bruce Chandler teamed with Wayne O’Neill. Their score of 61 nett snuck in ahead of the next best towards the end of the day.

Bruce and Wayne shared the scoring but stumbled on one hole, the 2nd, where they both carded double bogey.

Wayne saved one of his better shots to score a holein-one on Sunday.

The Handicap Runnersup were Hamish Steele-Park and David Bernardi.

They were quite pleased with their nett 62 and quietly confident of being in the prize ring.

Hamish provided most of the scores on the front-9 but David stepped up to carry the back-9. A better score than double-par on the 9th may have won them the main prize.

The ball sweep went to 68 nett on count back, going to: 64 – B Slack-Smith/D Earl; 65 -H Callaghan/B Ashton; 66 –C Alley/W Judge, P Pymont/R Smith; 67 – J Coulthurst/D Bayley; 68 – C Banks/K Tyne, C Hanrahan/T West, T Griffiths/P Kay. There was a lone visitor being Michael Wood (Dubbo GC).

He was pared with Adam Andrews and enjoyed a chat through their round. Mike managed a good individual score but Adam was very rusty after a long lay-off and did not help much.

The NTP’s went to: 9th – P Dawson; 18th – H SteelePark. Neither of them managed to convert for a ‘2’.

The 2’s were quite scarce despite the good pace of the greens, with one each scored on the 3rd, 9th and 18th.

Early starter Hamish scared everybody off on the 18th, but it took almost the whole field before Ecky got inside Brett Slack-Smith on the 9th.

The 3rd hole Super-Pin went to Dan Bayley who fired his shot to a comfortable 268 cm. Unfortunately, he did not convert for a ‘2’.

His group were the last in the field and once again bettered the early starter in Brett Slack-Smith.

The rest of the field had serious troubles and did not feature.

While 2’s were quite scarce ‘eagles’ seemed to pop up everywhere.

Caleb Hanrahan kept his game going with an eagle on the 12th.

He played a handy drive down the fairway, then plopped his approach shot into the hole on the second bounce.

Two eagles were scored on the 15th hole.

Both of the Betland boys managed easy putts for their score. And both benefitted on their individual scores.

The eagle helped John to a 34 on the back-9 after a bogey and a couple of birdies, but Steve was one shot better with 33 after a birdie and the rest pars.

It takes a lot for our ‘plus’ handicappers to get themselves at the top of the leader board. Steve (+2) finished on nett 69, with Caleb (+2) on nett 72 and John (+4) on nett 74.

So you can imagine how

well they played to earn a prize.

No matter how good the ‘guns’ are there are always stories from other players.

Jacob Reid and Mark Simmonds both struggled all day because they could not find their swing. And then others like Adam Andrews, Pat Murphy and Dave Bernardi had too many swings.

The water caused a problem for some players.

Stevie G plonked his ball into the water on both the 4th and 15th with one of those being near new.

Kim Herbert attempted a miracle recovery on the 15th.

His ball was stuck in the bank, but quite dry, on the green side of the water.

He used his ‘3-wood’ to blast out but only succeeded in skying the ball which then plonked into the water behind him.

The best story of the day came on the last hole.

One group had just finished putting out and climbed into the carts preparing to leave.

One of them heard a funny sound at the back of the cart and got out to look around.

The next group from the tee came running up, one of whom proclaimed “My ball is in your bag”.

The owner kindly zipped the pockets up, took out all the clubs and up-ended the bag. Out popped the ball! It had slam dunked into the bag with barely a whisper.

It is pleasing to report that Tim West managed to get up and down for his par, and nobody was hurt in the incident.

Reggie Murray tried to win by himself but without a partner it was very hard. He did have a quiet round though.

Another quiet moment was had by Jeff House. His tee shot on the 12th skied well right and finished among the trees closest to the 7th fairway. With nobody else in sight he was lonely but did manage to join his group on the 12th green.

Here is the news:

The Wallace Cup has had a faltering start but hopefully things will pick up once the golfing commitments ease.

To date the winners have been Bruce Chandler over Archie Quirk, Cam McMillan over Anthony Alley and Brad Ashton over Dave Quirk.

More matches in the current round will be played this week.

We give hearty encouragement to Archie Quirk who is scheduled to play in some GNSW Junior events over the next few weeks.

He plays in the G-NSW Junior Championships at Bateman’s Bay and Moruya over 72-holes.

And then heads to Shelley Beach for the Greg Chalmers Junior Masters.

Pleasing to see the developing game in Archie under the guidance of Head Pro Will.

This coming weekend any social play will be limited as the Mens Foursomes Championships will be played over two days.

If you want a social round it is best to ring the Pro Shop first (6851 1554).

H/Pro Will advises of a Taylor-Made Equipment Demo day, scheduled for Wed 9 July. Contact him in the Pro Shop if you want to book a time to try out their new stuff.

Do not forget to pay your membership renewal.

If you have not yet received it please contact the Pro Shop and leave a mes-

(P) and Niel Duncan (F); 33 - Ken Sanderson and Don McKeowen (F) and Gordon Pritchard (P); 32: Peter Grayson (F).

Another highlight of the day and always a hit with visitors was the tasty morning tea provided by the lady members of the Condobolin club which had everyone raring to go despite the chilly conditions.

As most players commented – ddddelicious.

This week the twin-towns competition returns to Parkes. Registrations from 9:15 for a 10am shot-gun start.

Last Tuesday the weather was great for 12 holes of social play where Neil Herbert was best with 26 points from Alex Mackinnon who can mix his game to produce his best beaten by one.

While the golf wasn’t tops for some of the 14 who played they did however enjoy their break over coffee where the problems of the world took preference to golf.

sage for the Secretary.

It is crystal ball time: This Saturday and Sunday, 28 and 29 June is the Mens Foursomes Championship, sponsored by FINDEX (Forbes).

The Ladies have a Monthly Medal on Saturday.

Sunday has the usual Stableford Medley comp scheduled for those not competing in the Foursomes.

VETS GOLF

West Wyalong golfer Barry Green stole the show with a hole-in-one at the Lachlan Valley Veterans monthly 18hole competition played at Condobolin last week.

The shot of the day was on the 150 metre par three 17th hole where Green lobbed his shot on the green before it checked right to find the cup.

Forty-four players contested the day where countbacks were required in both grades and 39 stableford points the top scores.

Local Ian Myers took the honors in A grade defeating an unlucky Kim Herbert from Forbes, while B grade was a Condo one-two with Dennis Norris getting the nod from Paula Fiji the only lady in the field.

In the teams event - the best three scores from each club - Condo also dominated returning 117 points to Forbes’ 113. Parkes was next on 97, Grenfell 90 and West Wyalong on 88.

The A grade nearest-topins were won by Condo’s Graham Taylor (sixth hole) and Steve Beattie (11th), West Wyalong’s Barry Green won the all-grades on the third hole, while no B graders scored on the 17th.

Ball winners from Parkes and Forbes were: 37 points - Ross William and Alan Rees (F); 35: Nym Dziuba

Be part of it any week, ball toss at 9am, all invited.

LADIES GOLF

By THE BIRDIE

Wednesday June 18th was a stroke event, 4th Round Golf NSW Medal. Sponsored by Robb’s Jewellers in two divisions.

Ladies Division 1 winner was Kerry Stirling with a net 74/96 from next best Jennifer Fletcher.

Ladies Division 2 winner was Shirley Davies with 77 net/104 next best was Deborah Dingwall 77.

Nearest to the pins for this match were Shirley Davies on the 9th and Jennifer Fletcher on the 18th hole.

Saturday 21 June was Foursomes played over 27 holes. Sponsors for this match were Forbes Auto Wreckers.

Ladies Scratch winners were Carolyn Duncan and daughter Brianna. Their two rounds scored them 144{+37}. Sharon Grierson and partner Wendy Simmons were runners up with 147{+40}

Ladies Comp winners were Sarah Black and Sally Perry scoring 115{+7}. Sharon Grierson and Wendy Simmons were runners up with 118.5{+18}.

Nearest to the pins were Kate Steele-Park on the 9th and Heather Davidson on the 18th hole.

Up and coming matches this week include on Saturday 28 June is Stroke 4TH round of Golf NSW Medal, Monthly Medal and putting sponsored by Gunns Golf for weekend lady golfers.

Wednesday 2 July is an 18 hole Stroke. Flag Event. Sponsors for this match are Kerry Stirling and Mary Ewing in two divisions. That’s a wrap, good golfing everyone.

Magpies soar into clash with Mudgee

RUGBY LEAGUE

The top-of-the-table Forbes Magpies are honing their focus as they prepare to take on defending premiers Mudgee in Round 10 of the Peter McDonald Premiership this Saturday.

The first grade side held on to win a solid contest from Nyngan Tigers 30-26 at Spooner Oval last weekend, captain Nick Greenhalgh keen for a couple of good sessions on the training paddock this week in the lead up to the trip to Glen Willow Stadium.

Magpies were slower at the start against Nyngan than they’d have liked, Greenhalgh admitted, but he was pleased with how his side rallied.

The renowned Forbes defence was working to the final bell, with Nyngan on the attack late after a lengthy injury delay.

Charlie Lennon scored on just his second game for first grade this season, the side pleased to welcome him back to the forward pack.

“He ended up getting man of the match on the weekend, he was massive,” Greenhalgh said.

“We’re pleased to have someone like Charlie back, we know what he brings.”

Hayden Bolam sat out due to injury, but Jake Porter is back and played a fair bit in the number nine spot.

“We’re lucky this year we’ve got so many guys who can play multiple positions,” Greenhalgh said, pleased to have that versatility in the squad.

“We’re still figuring out our best side but I think we’re getting close.”

Sunday’s performance left the squad with enough to work ahead of the Mudgee match, even if the Dragons have had a few injuries.

“I’m not too sure what sort of team they’re going to name this week, if they’ve got a few guys back, but I don’t think it matters,” Greenhalgh said.”

“It’s Mudgee in Mudgee – I know they’re going to be ready for it.”

So are the Magpies.

“We’ve got a few things to work on, but we’re all staying positive,” Greenhalgh said.

“A couple of good nights at training will put us in good stead.”

It’s the 10th weekend in a row for the Forbes squad, who’ll get their bye after Mudgee.

“It’s a long start to the season,” Greenhalgh acknowledged.

“The boys are pretty keen for the top-ofthe-table clash and if we get the two points we can really enjoy the week off, regroup and come back stronger the following week.”

MAGPIES 30 Zeke Hartwig, Jack Smith, Jake Porter, Charlie Lennon, Traie Merritt, Nick Greenhalgh five conversions TIGERS 26

RESERVE GRADE MAGPIES 36 Harry Staines, Joe Morrison, Brodie Acret, Charlie Lennon, Matty Duke, Ayden Flick, John Darcy six conversions TIGERS 16

LEAGUE TAG MAGPIES 6 Summer Hurford TIGERS 8

Semi-finals time in bowls minor pairs title race

BOWLS

CHAMPIONSHIPS

Well we are down to the pointy end of our Minor Pairs Championships with both semi-finals being played over the weekend to find out who our finalists will be this year.

Ben Parslow and Dale Scott were to take on Bruce Jones and Cherie Vincent, however due to prior commitments both Ben and Cherie had to use a sub and Jeff Nicholson subbed in for Ben’s team and Al Phillips subbed for Cherie.

Jeff and Ben made it clear to their opponents from the start they showed up to win. 11-1 on 8, Jeff and Ben had a great lead. Al and Cherie were able to win 4 consecutive ends to gain valuable points on the board to trail 6-20. Jeff and Ben won the next 5 and ended the game with the win 30-6.

Our second semi-final was played between Lyall Strudwick and Scott McKellar against Clint Hurford and Brett Davenport. Another strong start for Clint and Brett saw them leading 11-3 on 8 before Lyall and Scott scored another 3 points to close the gap.

Big numbers were scored from both sides in the second half of the game, Lyall and Scott gaining 2 3’s and Clint and Brett getting a 4 certainly helped the gap get smaller and smaller.

21-14 in favour of Clint and Brett on 16 until they gained the 4 and put the petal to the metal to the finish line, taking the win 28-16.

The Minor Pairs Final will be played against Ben Parslow and Dale Scott vs Clint Hurford and Brett Davenport on Saturday 5 July at 1pm.

Our Major Triples are under-

way with Peter Besgrove returning to the greens after a break to play second for Laurie Crouch lead and Scott Andrews skip when they drew Billy Cowell, Bruce Jones and Cherie Vincent.

The start of the game was a picture that this game would be one sided with Scotts team taking the first 4 ends leading 5-1, this was not the story at all.

Cherie’s team got some runs on the board and started to find their groove to trail 7-8 on 11.

Scott’s team regrouped and picked up 2 6’s to jump to the front 15-8 on 15.

With only 6 ends to go this could come down to the wire. Cherie gained a 4 on the 19th to again trail by 1, 15-16 then levelled 16 on 20.

Scott’s team just scraped by gaining a 1 on the last to win 17-16.

SUPER SATURDAY

North vs South – 24 bowlers nominated to play in the popular North vs South super Saturday. After receiving the noms, it was definitely one sided to the North so the decision was made to follow the normal super Saturday random draw instead of North playing South.

Two games of 10 ends and points were scored by ends won not overall game score.

Two teams finished on 13 ends won each so on a count back on margins on their games Dale Maynard and John Kennedy were the winners with Bill Scott and Bert Bayley runners up.

SOCIAL BOWLS

Wednesday – Despite quite a few bowlers out chasing the sun up north there were five games of pairs and one of triples last week where the lucky winner were Cher-

yl Hodges and Barry Shine over Bill Scot and Lyall Strudwick.

Highlight was the good nature of the game in 20 ends where good and not so good deliveries featured with the winners getting off to a good start, 7-0 after four ends. It continued for 17-7 after 16 before 17-12 at the end.

Runners-up and on the rise, which is no surprise when it comes to the surname, Phil Bayley and John Kennedy 23-16 in 22 over Angela Dent and Kerry Dunstan.

They also jumped out early, 3-0 after three for 14-3 the end of 10 then 23-6 after 18 before relaxing on the run home highlighted by dropping a five on end 20.

Tim Everest led for Geoff West winning 25-14 in 19 over Wayne Wright and John Gorton. Again dominating early 13-3 after nine.

In triples Phil Hocking, Sue Smith and Don Craft were to good for Bill O’Connell, Terry Molly and Billy Cowell in 17 (?) winning 19-7. They had to finish best down 3-6 after five before leading 15-6 at the end of 13.

John ‘Slippery’ Ward had the cheek leading for Peter Mackay winning 23-12 in 20 over the ladies combo of Robyn Mattiske and Kerry Roach.

Close until the last few ends, 7-all after nine, 11-all after 13 with the ‘boys’ taking honours 9-0 in the last four ends.

In the last, 16-9 to Colleen Liebich and Ross Williams in 17 (what this with games finishing on uneven ends) over Geoff Coles and Noel Jolliffe. They led 8-3 after seven, 11-5 after 10 before an even finish.

Again, worth remembering social competition bowls are played

every Wednesday morning, Thursday afternoon and Sunday morning. All are invited to have a roll on any of these days, phone the club on 6851 1499 for full details

Thursday – Embracing a gorgeous afternoon in the sun with the added value of a game of social bowls where else would you rather be. 16 bowlers, 4 games of pairs were played to see who would be crowned winning rink of the week.

Ange Dwyer and Glen Kearney played Noel Hocking and Bob Grant. Ange and Glen had a slow start but everything changed on the 4th. 6 ends in a row was a game changer for Ange and Glen and led 18-6 on 10. Noel and Bob answered the challenge but Ange and Glen were the victors 22-16.

Max Vincent led for Laurie Crouch when they played Dale Maynard and Lyall Strudwick. Another game which was one sided with Max and Laurie leading 15-2 on 10, 18-6 on 14. Dale and Lyall took the next 6 ends but couldn’t catch Max and Laurie going down 13-18.

Lyndy Bokeyar teamed with Cherie Vincent to play Phil Hocking and Al Phillips. The boys led 4-0 on 3 until the girls gained 2 3’s to hit the lead 6-4. This didn’t sit well with Phil and Al and won 10 points over the next 6 ends. Still in the lead, Phil and Al made a run for it to the finish line bring home 28 points to 13.

Our last game was played between Billy Cowell and Wayne Burton who gave Terry Molloy and Alan Hilder what one would call “a lesson”. It started out friendly with 4 all on 5 and that’s when the friendship ended. Billy and Wayne took no prisoners winning the game

23-9.

Winning Rink: Billy Cowell and Wayne Burton. Losing Rink: Lyndy Bokeyar and Cherie Vincent. Resting Touchers: Laurie Crouch, Dale Maynard and Alan Hilder. Jackpot was won by Phil Hocking.

Sunday – With such a big day on Saturday for Super Saturday our numbers were a little down for Sunday Bowls but it didn’t stop 12 keen players taking to the greens. Max Vincent and John Cutler had the closest game of the day against Dale Maynard and Al Phillips. Max and John had the extra spoon of sugar on their weetbix that morning leading 10-4 on 8. Not sure what Dale and Al did at half time, but it worked and they levelled the score 14 all on the 15th until Max and John scored 1 on the last to win 1514.

Jax Murphy and Terry Molloy tried their best against Ross Williams and Alan Hilder but it wasn’t their day.

It looked promising at half time with the board showing 7 all but the story changed pretty quickly with Ross and Alan finishing the game 20 to 9 in front.

Our last game of the morning was played between Dick Sharkey leading for Peter Tisdell against Kelly Stronger and Tara Shaw. The girls went out confident and were going to ensure the guys had to work for their points. The girls led 8-3 on 8 and didn’t hold back taking the win 14-9.

Winning rink: Max Vincent and John Cutler. Losing rink: Dick Sharkey and Peter Tisdell.

Resting touchers: Max Vincent, Kelly Stringer and Ross Williams.

Nyngan’s defence couldn’t stop Charlie Lennon diving over the try-line for Magpies in the Round 9 contest at Spooner Oval.

PHOTO: Renee Powell

Forbes’ Eli Bowden Boland (centre) was voted player of the series by his teammates. He and Oliver Hazell (right) were on the 13s representative side that finished second in Country NSW with a final played in snow and ice.

PHOTOS: Supplied

Junior rugby stars shine at State

RUGBY UNION

Junior Platypi have had a sensational NSW Junior State Championships campaign with Central West Rugby Union.

Thomas Johnson and Thomas Vonthien have been selected for the Under 14s Country NSW team following superb performances in the central west side.

Under 13s representative Eli Bowden-Boland was voted player of the series by other players after his side finished second in country in a final played out in snow, sleet and ice.

Forbes had representatives in both boys and girls teams

contesting the NSW Junior State Championships, played on the June long weekend.

Oliver Hazell and Eli Bowden-Boland were in the under 13s team which had wins over Central North and Illawarra but lost to overall winners ACT to come second in the Country pool. A loss to City pool counterparts Penrith District set them up for the Plate final, where they beat Manley 15-7.

The Under 14s boys, with Forbes represented by Thomas Vonthien and Thomas Johnson, battled it out against Hunter in the Country championships final for eighth in the state.

Under 14 girls, including Forbes’ Amelia Grayson, Daisy Rice and Lucy McFadyen, had a tough first game against a strong Wildfires team going down 32-5 but followed it up with wins over ACT, Central Coast and Mid North Coast.

The side, coached by Forbes’ Randall Grayson, finished their NSW Junior rugby union state championships third in country and fifth in state.

Forbes’ Aurora Farrelly, Isabel Nicholson and Sarah Price represented in the Under 16s girls, who opened with two wins, but were defeated by a strong Illawarra side 19-5.

Hardys, Millers lead squash

Wednesday June 18, week 8.

Team places now: Hardys are back in front with 135, Jones’ follow closely on 133, Cogswells are behind them for 123 and Markworts trail with 119.

Highlight matches; Will Markwort had an extended match with Marcus Hardy, both boys put the pressure on through five tough sets and at 13 all in the fifth it was Will who hit the two required points for the win.

At two sets down 8-15, 5-15, Hunter Bilsborough returned fire to take the third set a convincing 15-5 from Ellie Cowhan but Hunter surrender the fourth set and match 7-15. Won to watch: Marcus Hardy.

Results

Hundreds on way for soccer gala day

Forbes District Soccer Club will host its Annual Youth Gala Day on Sunday 29 June, welcoming 85 teams and more than 180 games across 11 fields, with matches kicking off from 7.30am.

A major highlight of the day will be the official opening of the new Youth Strength and Conditioning Gym at midday, with a number of special guests.

This state-of-the-art facility is the first of its kind at a community

soccer club in Australia, designed specifically for junior athletes with a focus on lower body development, core strength, and explosive leg work.

The gym has been two years in the making and was made possible through funding from the NSW Government’s Football Legacy Infrastructure Grant, Forbes Shire Council, and Forbes District Soccer Club.

It is part of a broader upgrade

that includes a new canteen, female-compliant referee room, and refurbished office and storage areas. The gala day will bring together players and families from across regional NSW, with teams travelling from Leeton, Griffith, Hanwood, Young, Orange, Bathurst, Dubbo, Wagga Wagga, Goulburn and more making this one of the largest junior soccer gatherings in the state.

Court one: Markworts v Hardys 16 to 11. Harry Bilsborough v sub Shane Moxey 6-1, Lucas Jones v Nate Markwort 6-1, Beth Cannon v Shane Moxey forfeit to Shane.

Court two: Jones v Cogswells 16 to 19. Cooper v Christine 6-1, Lucy Robinson v Bec Jones 1-6, Noah Brown v Luke Bilsborough 1-6, and Robey McMillan v Bella Henry 6-1.

Thursday evening Team places: Millers are one point ahead of H Krosses who with 182 have taken second position from Pipers now on 169. Dawes come next for 165, Jones follow with 154 and J Krosses are behind on 152. Semis are three weeks away, players. Wons to watch: Will Markwort and Brett Thomas.

Highlights: Talented young Claire Bayley defeated Dennis Haynes three 15s to 7, 8, 9. Another six sets and Denn might have scored a 15. Pacer, Weivan Huang is back on track and court, after some serious globetrotting. And despite losing set one 13-15 to Garry Dempsey he rallied and ran home with three 15s to Garry’s 11, 8 and 12.

Earlier, Adam Chudleigh and Brett Thomas played a massive match which was a closer shave than Rego’s new haircut. Brett won the first two sets 15-13, 15-7 but Chuds sharpened his pencil and wrote the next three scores 15-4, 18-16, 15-8.

Results

Court one: H Krosses v Millers 31 points to 18. Henry v Lockie 6-1, Jono Cannon v Dan Bayley 1-6, sub L Jones v Lawry Brayne 5-2, Will Markwort v Max Ridley 6-1, and Deb Bryant v Tim Welsh 2-5.

Court two: Dawes v Jones’ 20 to 29. Ollie v Max 4-3, Jake Shaw v Regan Acret 1-6, Bren Allegri v Mark Webb 6-1, Scott Webb v Sandy Paterson 2-5, Alex Bayley v John Ridley 1-6, Tony Trotter v Sam Mackay 3-4 and T J Markwort v sub T Welsh 3-4.

Court three: J Krosses v Pipers 21 to 14. Alex Doyle v Sam Hornery 5-2, sub W Markwort v Lockie Jones 4-3, sub B Thomes v Pete Cowhan 5-2 and Ken Bryant v Kim Chudleigh 3-4.

This week’s draw: team 3 v 5, 1 v 4, 2 v 4 both nights.

Amelia Grayson, Daisy Rice and Lucy McFadyen represented Forbes in the central west under

Forbes’ Thomas Johnson and Thomas Vonthien have been selected for Country on the back of superb performances in the central west Under 14s.

Botanical Gardens will host hundreds of young soccer stars like Forbes’ Zoe Field on Sunday.

PHOTO: File

SQUASH By DROP SHOT

Haylee wins gold at worlds

■ From page 20

“I’m genuinely grateful for my body holding up,” Haylee said.

“It’s a privilege to be able to do what I do, I don’t take anything for granted.”

None of it would be possible without the backing of family and community, especially her husband Jake.

“I honestly could not have done this without him, he is my biggest supporter and my rock,” Haylee said.

His parents also helped keep the house running and their two boys where they needed to be.

It was also incredibly special this time to have her mum cheering her on from the grandstand.

“I’m really, really lucky I’ve got the support I do,” Haylee said.

Haylee’s focus can now turn to qualifying for 2026 by competing in the State of Origin event in August and nationals in Perth in September.

November brings the world champion-

ships in the sport’s other federation – the International Union of Kettlebell Lifting –in China.

This means she’ll be working with her doctors, in addition to the strength and kettlebell coaches she works with regularly, to work out a training program for the coming weeks.

“I’ve actually pulled up really well - mentally I’ve pulled up really well,” Haylee said.

“I’ve just got to navigate this injury and work with what I’ve got … so that it heals completely but I’m able to continue because I am mid-season.”

It’s also financial support that makes it possible.

While Haylee competes with the Australian team, kettlebell is a self-funded sport and the entry fees alone were nearly $2000.

The sponsorship of Anytime Fitness and Lachlan Readymix made this year possible and she’s very grateful for their support.

Forbes’ Haylee Redfern set a world record and won gold in the one-arm long cycle at the WKSF world championships.

PHOTO: Supplied

Record-breaking return

Haylee Redfern brings home four gold medals from worlds

Just weeks before the kettlebell world championships, Haylee Redfern couldn’t even lift a bag of groceries with one arm.

Now, she’s a four-time world champion and record holder after an extraordinary comeback at the 2025 WKSF World Championships in Italy.

Haylee lifted a 16kg kettlebell 136 times in 10 minutes during the onearm long cycle event to establish a new record.

She also equalled a record in the traditional two-kettlebell event to win four gold medals across amateur and masters classes, then backed it up with team performances in the relay events representing Australia.

“It is a little bit surreal to think I was able to do that considering what was happening,” she said.

“I think it came down to mentally I was prepared, I was committed to this.”

The local athlete, a mum and businesswoman, won gold and broke records at the WKSF titles in 2024 and had booked her flights to this year’s championships back in January.

But outside of kettleball season she’s also a strongman competitor so when one of those events was scheduled for Bathurst – so much closer to home than she can typically compete – she changed up her training to include that.

Unfortunately, she was injured in the very first event, tearing her trapezius and rhomboid muscles away from the vertebrae on both sides of her upper back.

“I’ve injured myself before but this was next level, I thought I’d done something to my spine,” Haylee said.

Doctors at Orange Hospital ruled out spinal fractures and surgery but recovery was expected to take months, just seven weeks out from the world titles.

Dealing with burning pain and considering withdrawing from the championships, Haylee found new motivation when her mum told her she’d be able to join her on the trip.

Haylee hadn’t actually told her

family about the injury at that point. She pivoted her training, heading to Anytime Fitness to do legwork on the equipment and increasing her cardio.

She didn’t do any upper body training until about two weeks out from competition when she began to test herself with two light kettlebells –she found two were balanced in a way that did let her lift, where working one side aggravated her injury.

“I didn’t do any long sets – a minute if that and they weren’t heavy,” Haylee said.

“As far as picking up one kettlebell goes I just didn’t do it.”

Haylee was the first Australian to compete in Italy and the competition opened with her preferred disciplines, the long cycle.

She approached the platform hoping that not having put any pressure on her back in the lead up would have paid off.

“I know what I can do but I just didn’t know how I would go without the training,” Haylee said.

“Mentally I had to be more there than anything because physically I couldn’t be … I was basically prepared for anything and I was just going to push through.”

In the next 10 minutes, she completed 90 reps with two kettlebells in 10 minutes to win gold in both amateur and masters classes, equalling the world record.

Then came her record-breaking one-arm long cycle effort.

Following the win, she withdrew from the biathlon event to preserve her energy for the team relays.

The Elite relay involved lifting 20kg kettlebells - something she hadn’t done since March.

Australia finished fourth in the Elite relay and took silver in the mixed event.

By the final day, fatigue was setting in. Still, Haylee claimed two bronze medals in a 30-minute event.

“I’m incredibly grateful, you can’t wipe the smile off my face,” she said.

■ To page 19

Haylee Redfern has won gold lifting two kettlebells through a record-equalling 90 reps at the WKSF world championships.

PHOTO: Supplied