Critical water and sewer infrastructure destroyed by floods has received State funding, but the Recovery Minister says she’s “still on the case” for a resilient land package to develop flood-free land for housing in Cabonne.
Cabonne Council and Central Tablelands Water have welcomed news the NSW Government will fund repairs to sewer pumping stations and water services damaged in the 2022 flood event, which didn’t meet the criteria for disaster relief.
Good news finally came in response to lobbying by councilswith State MP Philip Donato - with $27 million for restoration of central west infrastructure in the 20252026 State budget.
Cabonne Shire Council will receive $300,000 for repairs they had to make to sewer pump stations, Central Tablelands Water $300,000 for repairs to water services – these including Eugowra.
A major focus of the funding is the $22.9 million rebuild of the
Lake Endeavour water pipeline in Parkes Shire, repairs to infrastructure at Lake Cargelligo have also been funded.
Cabonne Mayor Kevin Beatty and Central Tablelands Water chairperson Cr Andrew Rawson were among those who this week welcomed Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin to the region and thanked her as well as Mr Donato for their advocacy.
The broader work of flood recovery continues and Cr Beatty with
Cabonne shire general manager Brad Byrnes has also met with Minister for Emergency Management and Regional Development Kristy McBain to talk about the roll-out of the resilient homes package and further needs from the region.
“The biggest point - and we’ve raised this from day one really – is a resilient land package, especially for Eugowra,” Cr Beatty said.
“If people are offered buybacks, which they are going to be, where do they go to live? We need some-
where for them to live.
“What we’re asking for is a land package supported by the government – we’ve identified a portion of land which would be suitable and really to develop that land to a stage where people can go and build is going to cost $2.5 million.”
Minister Saffin said she was well aware of the need and extended a message to the community.
“Without going into detail, Phil (Donato) and I are still on the case,” Minister Saffin said.
Sunday was a soccer gala day to remember as 85 teams took the field at Botanical Gardens, hundreds of players and families in town. In the middle of the action, we stopped to celebrate an investment in our region’s soccer stars of the future with the opening of a new youth strength and conditioning gym.
Pictured are Amanda Alley, Milarnie Hanley, Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller, Anna Dingwall, Member for Orange Phil Donato, Maci Kennedy, Forbes soccer’s Doug Mckenzie and Freya Dumbrell officially opening and putting the new equipment to the test.
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
From the mayor’s desk
By MAYOR PHYLLIS MILLER OAM
What an amazing weekend of sport!
On Sunday, Forbes played host to more than 3,000 junior athletes and supporters from across NSW for the annual Youth Soccer Gala Day.
A total of 85 teams competed in over 180 thrilling matches throughout the day.
Congratulations to Forbes District Soccer Club for organising an outstanding event.
Days like this not only energise grassroots sport but also deliver a valuable boost to the local economy.
One of the standout moments was the official opening of the Youth Strength and Conditioning Gym.
It’s the first of its kind in regional Australia and features cutting-edge equipment designed to support the development of young athletes.
The weekend also drew players and supporters to town for the Forbes Platypi and Forbes Magpies Juniors Home games.
On Monday, around 2000 people attend the Catholic Schools Rugby Trials Day.
All the sportsgrounds looked amazing and the crowds were very appreciative.
THEATRE FUNDED
I wish to thank the Minns State Government for its commitment of $20.2 million for the Forbes Hospital Operating Theatre Redevelopment in the 2025/26 State Budget.
The new operating theatre will be equipped with state-ofthe-art technology and built to the highest modern medical standards.
The redevelopment ensures the continued delivery of essential services, expands the capacity to perform a broader range of surgical procedures, and delivers the healthcare our community deserves.
PATHWAYS TO PREVENTION
This week I welcomed the launch of a new three-year partnership between Local Government NSW and the NSW Government to help councils tackle the root causes of domestic, family, and sexual violence.
The Pathways to Prevention Strategy will support the delivery of primary prevention programs like unconscious bias training, gender equality initiatives, and awareness resources. Councils are central to our communities and, when wellresourced, are well-placed to lead on social issues.
Violence of this kind is preventable.
With the right tools, councils can help stop it before it starts.
Speed networking for women
Regional women in business, leadership, and community roles will have the opportunity to connect, collaborate, and grow as the Central West Inspired Women (CWIW) Speed Networking events roll into Forbes, Grenfell and Parkes from July.
Thanks to generous support from Inland Rail and the collaborative backing of Forbes, Parkes and Weddin Shire councils, these events are designed to empower women across the Central West through
meaningful networking and shared inspiration.
CWIW’s signature speed networking format features structured, time-efficient conversations that help attendees build connections and confidence in a relaxed and inclusive environment.
Businesswomen and employees from all industries are encouraged to attend.
RDA Central West Director, Josh Gordon, said the events continue
region, fostering a strong sense of community and empowerment.
“These sessions are all about bringing women together, to connect, learn from each other, and feel supported in their personal and professional journeys,” Mr Gordon said.
“We’re proud to partner with Inland Rail and our local councils to expand this opportunity to these regional communities.”
Event details:
WHAT’S ON in and around 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.
ROTARY IPOMOEA AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION
Saturday, 5 July
The big day is almost here! 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 opens 2pm for community viewing, it’s just $5 for adults to view the exhibits, with presentation of awards at 5pm. Sections are landscape, portrait, animals / birds, travel, focus on active Forbes, and farm life / machinery. Be part of it, then come along and view the works in the afternoon to support a great club and cause.
@ Club Forbes • Grenfell: Thursday 14 August, 6–8 PM @ The Cordial Factory • Parkes: Date to be announced later in 2025
The events are free, but registration is essential and includes light refreshments, a welcome drink and facilitated networking designed to help attendees walk away with new connections, ideas and inspiration. For more information or to register, visit www.rdacentralwest.org.
FORBES EISTEDDFOD
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. It’s $160 a table for up to eight people, you can pre-order grazing boxes and slider boxes. Tickets on sale and food orders available through 123tix. com.au
TAYLOR SWIFT AND KATY PERRY KIDS TRIBUTE SHOW
lectables from a wide range of local stall holders. Phone to book a stall on 0427 201 445.
CENTRAL WEST BIRD EXPO
Saturday, 2 August
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
SPEED NETWORKING
Thursday, 10 July
DANCE EISTEDDFOD
Saturday, 5 July
Part 2 of our local eisteddfod opens at Red Bend Catholic College with group dance day. Local and regional performers will shine on the stage through a big week of dance. Details page 6.
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 hands-on 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
JOURNALISTS
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 essential, it’s open online now through events.humanitix.com and includes a welcome drink, light refreshments, and guided conversations to help you make real connections. It’s happening 6-8pm at Club Forbes.
INDOOR MARKET
Saturday, 12 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 ,col-
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
www.forbesadvocate.com.au
mbrown@midwestmedia.com.au
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
SUPER SPORTS DAY
Wednesday, 16 July
Creative Community Concepts returns to Forbes in the school holidays with a free, fun-packed day of activities. Bring your mates, bring the kids – this is a day for the whole community to get active, connect, and have a laugh together. There will be archery tag, laser tag, multisports, soft hockey, league tag, footy for fun for the underfives. It’s all happening at Grinsted Oval at 10am on 16 July.
COMMUNITY OPENING, EUGOWRA CENTRE
Wednesday, 23 July
Cabonne Council, Mayor Kevin Beatty and councillors warmly invite Eugowra to a community opening of the Eugowra Multi-Purpose and Evacuation Centre from 3pm to 6pm on 23 July.
Hear updates on key community projects and give your input on the Eugowra CBD and Memorial Park Enhancement designs. RSVP for catering purposes by 16 July to council@cabonne.nsw. gov.au
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. Bird entry is $1 per bird with a minimum $10 entry fee and $3 per bird sellers fee. There will be trade stalls, food vans, raffles, education stands and more on the day.
BEDGERABONG SHOW
Saturday, 16 August
The greatest little show in the west opens our show season on Saturday, 16 August. Start planning what you might enter from your veggie patch, kitchen or craft room. Stall holders are invited to register with site from $20, payment on the day. You can register your interest online - more information and links on the Bedgerabong Show Facebook page. Or contact the secretary 0427808158 or email bedgerabongshow@hotmail. com for more information.
SMALL WINEMAKERS WINE SHOW
Friday, 29 August
The NSW Small Winemakers Show has released 2025 dates and this year’s public tasting is on Friday, 29 August at Forbes Town Hall. The gourmet wine presentation dinner follows on Saturday, 20 September and if you book tickets for both now in one transaction you’ll receive $10 off.
Want to add to this list? Email renee.powell@forbesadvocate. com.au
State Budget to deliver upgrades at high school
Forbes High is one of 14 regional schools to share in funding for upgrades to support the rollout of programs for high potential students.
Announced in the NSW Budget, these enhancements will enable schools to deliver High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) programs that extend student learning across a range of subjects, as part of the Government’s broader commitment to expand gifted education across every public school.
Principal Kathleen Maksymczuk
says the school community is delighted - it’s a very exciting time.
“We’re in those planning stages of really looking at how we bring our facilities up to that really strong contemporary standard that allows us to tailor those really specific educational experiences for all learners,” she said, “really tapping into that potential that students have and being able to have the facilities that cater for their needs.”
Schools were selected based on student need and enrolment capacity.
The Department of Education is working with each school to identify the improvements that will best support student development.
Forbes High is in the planning stages with identified work including dedicated fitness centre facilities, library facilities, hall, school entrance and facade as well as administration and toilet facilities.
Mrs Maksymczuk said it was an exciting time for both Forbes High and the community and thanked both government and department for the
funds to Forbes High School.
“We’ve got amazing specialist staff, we’ve got fantastic teaching experts, let’s ensure our facilities match that teacher expertise as well,” she said.
Acting Minister for Education and Early Learning Courtney Houssos said the investment would help students explore and develop their talents.
“We want every child to have the opportunity to reach their full potential at school, with high expectations for achievement,” she said.
Lives lost in tragic week on our roads
It’s been a devastating week on the roads, a young woman losing her life after a crash on the Lachlan Valley Way and a man dying in a crash at Yarranbandai.
The woman was transported to Orange hospital in a critical condition after a crash on the Lachlan Valley Way last Wednesday evening, 25 June.
Police received the tragic news she had passed away there on Thursday, NSW Police said in a statement released to
Police were called to a fatality at Yarrabandai on Monday, 30 June, about 58km west of Parkes on Henry Parkes Way.
Emergency services responding to calls found a truck had left the roadway and crashed into bushes, the driver dying at the scene.
Another man has died in a crash on Narromine Road, about 14km east of Narromine.
The driver, a man believed to be in his 20s, has been killed.
Investigators believe the crash occurred about 10.30pm on Saturday, 28 June
A report on all of these is to be prepared for the coroner.
Youth gym an investment in soccer stars of our future
Sunday was a soccer gala day to remember with 85 teams at Botanical Gardens, hundreds of players and families in town.
It was also one to celebrate investment in our football stars of the future with the official opening of a purpose-built soccer club gym, hailed a first-of-itskind in regional Australia.
Retired Matildas coach Tom Sermanni was on hand for the special occasion as the gym was officially opened by Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM, Member for Orange Phil Donato MP and Forbes soccer coach and coordinator Doug Mckenzie.
It’s been co-funded by Forbes Shire Council and the NSW Government’s Football Legacy Fund.
Our Forbes U13 Girls Champions of Champions Squad put the new youth strength and conditioning gym to immediate use as special guests highlighted the importance of both events like the gala day and the facilities.
“This unique gym is the first of its kind in regional Australia, being purpose-built for soccerspecific athletic development,”
Mr Donato said.
“The new gym forms part of a larger infrastructure upgrade, including a new canteen, fe-
male-compliant referee room, and refurbished club facilities.”
Botanical Gardens was host to 85 teams of boys and girls aged seven to 16 from Leeton, Griffith, Hanwood, Young, Orange, Bathurst, Dubbo, Wagga Wagga, Goulburn and more, who played more than 180 games across 11 fields.
Mr Donato said the continued success of the yearly event was testament to the leadership, passion and commitment of the event manager, Doug Mckenzie.
“This event not only invigorates the sport and nurtures increasing numbers of player par-
ticipation, but it also contributes significantly to the Forbes local economy,” Mr Donato said.
“The Gala Day has also proven the potential to identify country talent, with Forbes Juniors Josie McKenzie and Oliver Northey featuring at the Football Australia Emerging Matilda’s and Socceroos next month in Sydney and Melbourne.”
Mckenzie said the facilities were an important part of youth development in the sport, as the club seeks to establish pathways for young players. Read more about Josie and Oliver on the back page.
Member for Orange Phil Donato, retired Matildas Coach Tom Sermanni, Forbes Mayor Cr Phyllis Miller OAM and Doug Mckenzie were all on site for the official opening of the gym.
Youth connect to better community
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Youth of Forbes and Parkes had the chance to have their voices heard at the Connect and ThrivePathways event in Parkes.
Delivered by the NSW Office for Regional Youth, Connect and Thrive - Pathways is a direct response to feedback from the 2024 Your Voice, Our Future consultation and NSW Youth Summit, where our youth called for more meaningful, face to face engagement in their own communities.
The event included a youth-led networking session, a leadership and communication skills workshop and a Pitch It Session featuring local businesses, councils and community groups sharing opportunities for youth employment and engagement.
Another highlight of the event was the Think Tank session where students collaborated with their fellow peers to co-design solutions to challenges they face in their communities.
Students from Forbes High School, Red Bend Catholic College, Parkes High School and Parkes Christian School took part in the event where they were equipped with the tools, networks and confidence they need to shape their futures.
What the students had to say:
Forbes High School student Annaliese Green said she found out a lot of opportunities that she had never heard about until she attended the Connect and Thrive event.
“I was really surprised and impressed by the Council’s trainee and apprentices,” Annaliese said.
In the Think Tank session Annaliese’s group discussed youth crime, domestic violence and ongoing mental health struggles.
“While these topics are extremely heavy, we discussed ways we could support out community. We explored having information sessions for the community to learn about mental health and how to support people in difficult situations of grief, abuse or ongoing suffering. We, as school-aged people, have been very lucky in our educa-
ing because the police in Forbes stop patrolling at 11pm, causing a spike in night-time crimes.” Bella thought the event was a massive step towards improvement within the community.
“This event helped youth share their opinions and ideas towards our community and how we truly feel about the situations within the community. Young people don’t get a voice or get an opinion about our community so providing youth with a voice can promote a safer and healthier community.”
tion around mental health but we understand that this is only a recent addition to the public system’s curriculum.”
Annaliese said the event was a lot of fun and it opened her eyes to possibilities of volunteering. “Kids see a lot more than anyone thinks they do, we understand the struggles of our communities, therefore giving us these opportunities to practice using our voice and exploring possibilities for change will give us the confidence and practice to then do it into our adulthood,” Annaliese added.
Marcus Colvin said there were many different institutions in place to enable more youth engagement.
“There were public libraries and companies that people were able to join to give them more of an opportunity to be a part of the communities.”
At the Think Tank session Marcus’s group discovered that the community needs to create a higher sense of togetherness and leave behind the idea that everyone is separate. “Additionally, on the topic of mental health, we realised that it needs to be focused on more indepth to ensure that everyone’s problems are dealt with and not ignored.”
Council’s Event Officer via email : events@forbes.nsw.gov.au or phone 68502300.
A session that Marcus found valuable was was the youth networking session.
“This session helped enable us to realise that there are many different paths we can take to achieve greatness and find what we love in life. The event was important and helpful to develop our skills on how to identify problems and what can be done to resolve those issues.”
Marcus said it is important to
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.
Bella said events like this can involve young people in the decision making process within our community. “Youth can form new leaders and promote change for a better future.”
Chloe Little said she was surprised by all the different opportunities there are for our rural area. In the Think Tank session Chloe’s group discussed that having facilities in our area where youth can hang out would have a positive impact on them through connection, support and interaction.
“It’s important to recognise the growing issues in our communities, so these matters don’t grow bigger,” Chloe said.
have these events for the youth in our community as it helps to create a new group of leadership among young people to help improve the future of others.
Bella Henry leant that there are many opportunities for youth in small communities such as joining new groups like the Forbes Youth Action Team (FYAT).
“This session allowed us to hear from different people that do many different jobs or activities among the community,” Bella said. “I knew about FYAT as I am part of it, I have not heard about the majority of the other branches but it was very interesting.” A problem that was raised in Bella’s group during the Think Tank session was the rise of youth crimes over the years.
“One of the solutions we thought of was to provide 24 hour polic-
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
“As young people, we are the future so we have to be the ones to make the change. Networking is really important for a successful future as people you meet may remember you and your actions could come back in a positive way years later.”
Chloe said the event was great and helped students who attended understand that there are so many young leaders who want to better our community.
“My favourite session was the Pitch It session as we got to interact and get to know some really cool. passionate and knowledgeable people.
“It’s important to have events such as Connect and Thrive to inform the youth about issues important to them and their futures,” Chloe added.
Chloe Little networking with her fellow peers at the Connect and Thrive event.
Asha Munodawafu at the Connect and Thrive event held in Parkes.
PHOTOS: Supplied
Forbes High School, Red Bend Catholic College and Parkes High School students attended the Connect and Thrive event held in Parkes.
PHOTO: Madeline Blackstock
a car at Club Forbes
120 draws. One winner. Our biggest promotion ever.
Club Forbes has launched the most exciting promotion in its history.
One lucky member will drive away in a brand-new Suzuki Swift, thanks to a 120-draw giveaway proudly supported by Tooheys and Forbes Mazda.
From July to early December, Club Forbes will run 120 individual draws.
Each draw produces one finalist, and all finalists will go into the barrel for the major prize draw on Sunday 7 December.
One name will be drawnand that person will be handed the keys to a new Suzuki Swift.
Club CEO Peter Gasson says the promotion is all about giving back.
“We’re proud to be a true community venue. This promotion is a way of saying thank you to our members for their support – and what better way than handing someone the keys to a brandnew car?”
Members can earn entries by simply taking part in everyday Club activities - buying Tooheys products, meals, raffle tickets, or swiping their membership card at the kiosk.
Every visit gives you another chance to become one
This is the largest member promotion ever held in Forbes and shows Club Forbes’ ongoing commitment to rewarding its members and investing in the local community.
of the 120 finalists.
The final draw takes place during the Club’s Christmas Ham Raffle night, one of the biggest events on the calendar.
All 120 finalists will be in the barrel, and at 9pm, one name will be pulled to win the car.
This major giveaway is made possible by the support of Tooheys and Forbes Mazda, two loyal partners
who continue to back regional community initiatives.
With 120 chances to qualify, daily entry opportunities, and a high-profile draw night, this is a promotion designed to reward the people who make Club Forbes what it is.
For full details, visit clubforbes.com.au or speak with our team at reception.
T&Cs apply.
Permit NTP/13645
We’re proud to be a true community venue. This promotion is a way of saying thank you to our members for their support – and what better way than handing someone the keys to a brand-new car?
- CLUB CEO PETER GASSON
CLUB DUTY MANAGER TAYLOR HODGES-LOCKWOOD AND CHEF DAMIEN NICHOLAS IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT OF THE SUZUKI SWIFT, SHARING THE GOOD NEWS OF THE CAR GIVEAWAY WITH CLUB MEMBERS.
The first section of Forbes eisteddfod is complete, with plenty of talent taking the stage across a big week of performance.
Encouragement Award 13 years and over: Emily Bullock
Vocal
Eisteddfod brings out stars of stage
Adjudicator Dr Rachel Campbell had a busy week of encouraging and providing insight to the region’s performers of all ages, in instrumental, piano, speech and drama and vocal.
Some of our major award recipients were: Speech and drama
Most Promising Performer any age: Chelsea Ray
Encouragement Award 12 years and over: Chelsea Ray
Encouragement Award 10 years and under: Stephanie Hornery
Instrumental
Most Promising Soloist any age: Archie John Higgins
Encouragement Award Open: Harrison Rowbotham
Encouragement Award 13-17 years: Emily Cox
Most Promising Soloist any age: Rachel Roberts
Encouragement Award 13 years and over: Ethan Butchard
Encouragement Award 12 years and under: Lucy Hughes
Encouragement Award 10 years and under: Taliesin Bullock
PARKES SHOW
Encouragement Award 12 years and under: Chloe Thomas
From this Saturday, 5 July, our region’s young dancers converge on Red Bend Catholic College for the start of the dance part of our local eisteddfod.
It starts with the group dance
25th, 26th, 27th August 2025
Save the date for the 2025 Parkes Show 25th-27th August
Tickets available soon for the Greatest Show west of the Blue Mountains, filled with entertainment, side shows and trade stands along with a spectacular fireworks display
day, with dance schools from all over the region entered.
For those wanting to come and watch our talented dancers on group day, it’s $10 a session or $7 for child/concession.
For the rest of the week, admission is $5 a session for adults, children/concession: $3; or get a day pass for $12 an adult, children/concession:
A season badge is $35 for adults, or $25 for child / concession (children being five to 12 years).
Forbes Lions will be available at
the dance eisteddfod on the day providing a barbecue, including sausage sandwiches, bacon and egg rolls and much more.
Simply Scrumptious will be there throughout the week, from 5 to 12 July, providing a range of meals and drink to suit all your needs.
These include soups, toasted sandwiches, fresh deli sandwiches on homemade foccacia, homemade vegemite scrolls, cinnamon scrolls, ham and cheese buns, fresh juice and hot drinks.
Police cars allegedly rammed in pursuit
A police pursuit out of Dubbo that saw two police cars allegedly rammed ended in Peak Hill over the weekend with four people charged.
Officers attached to Orana Mid-Western Police District – operating under Operation Soteria that targets youth crime – were patrolling the Newell Highway about 2.30am on Saturday when it’s alleged they saw a sedan which had been reported stolen from Marrickville.
When the driver failed to stop when directed a pursuit was initiated, a NSW Police statement issued to media said.
The pursuit travelled 70km
south to Peak Hill where one of the police vehicles was allegedly rammed and the sedan stopped.
As an officer approached the car, it’s alleged the driver accelerated towards her and she discharged her firearm.
The sedan struck a second police vehicle before a man and three women, allegedly travelling in the stolen car, were arrested and taken to Dubbo Police Station.
The alleged driver, a 24-year-old man, has been charged with five offences relating to vehicle theft and police pursuit; use etc offensive weapon to prevent lawful detention etc; and hinder
or resist police officer in the execution of duty.
The man from Redfern was refused bail and appeared in Parramatta Local Court that day.
Three women have each been charged with be carried in conveyance taken without consent of owner.
A 25-year-old woman from Bourke was refused bail and appeared in Parramatta Local Court on Sunday.
A 22-year-old woman from Bourke and a 20-year-old woman from Dubbo were granted conditional bail to face Dubbo court in August. No-one was injured during the pursuit or arrests.
Frank Spice Enterprise on market
Leading Sydney commercial real estate agency Next Commercial has proudly released the Frank Spice Enterprise portfolio to the market.
These three regional investments delivering a high-performance return are located at Forbes and Parkes, in regional NSW.
The sale will be via expressions of interest to Next Commercial due by Thursday, 31 July.
With a long-standing history in the region that started 62 years ago in Forbes by brothers Frank and Ron Spice, the company supplies small farm engine vehicles, motor vehicles and motorcycles, plus pool equipment and chemicals.
It was not long before the company grew and became the leading small engine supplier in the Central West.
As volume and productivity increased, the company established another business in Parkes only a 30 minute drive away, comprising of the same services.
The property assets in Forbes, occupies a substantial 10,402.60sqm site showcasing a dealership of Nissan vehicles, Honda motorcycles, plus Club Cadet and Ferris mowers.
It is a standout, modern showroom with a 40m frontage to the Newell Highway, one of NSW’s major transport corridors. Nestled in the middle of the
properties is the town’s favourite workers’ watering hole, The Globe Hotel, a pub frequently visited by locals alike.
The location neighbours national brands such as Ampol, BP, McDonald’s, JCB Machinery and Forbes Toyota.
The Forbes properties are a combination of five lots collectively, one of these blocks of land is located across the road directly neighbouring Ampol and adjacent McDonald’s, and ideally suited to a future QSR fast-food outlet (STCA).
The property in Parkes located at 19 Saleyards Road is part of the Frank Spice business and has a land size of 1318.5sqm.
It sells and services Yamaha, Honda, Ferris and Cub Cadet, plus small farm equipment including pumps and pool service equipment.
An integral component of the overall dealership operations, it is also used for storage, vehicle
detailing and deliveries for the overall business.
“The purchase of the Frank Spice brand and property as sets in Forbes and Parkes pro vides an incredible opportunity to be part of history and own a strong wholesome family business where owners have done the hard work and created an established brand and business in two prime locations in the NSW Central West,” said director at Next Commercial Anthony Bray.
The long-standing Frank Spice Enterprise in Forbes and Parkes is on the market and its properties in Forbes are a combination of five lots collectively, one located across the road, all occupying a substantial 10,402.60sqm.
“Frank Spice Enterprise is recognised as one of regional NSW’s most enduring and successful family businesses.”
The Spice Portfolio is being sold all in one line by expressions of interest closing on Thursday, 31 July. For more details or a tour of the properties, please contact selling agents: Director Anthony Bray on 0419 322 233 or senior sales associate Ryan Cross on 0402 147 124.
Nestled in the middle of the properties in Forbes is the town’s favourite workers’ watering hole, The Globe Hotel.
Be part of National Tree Day this month
CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE
By MARG APPLEBEE
Central West Lachlan Landcare is once again working with Forbes and Parkes Shire Councils to de liver National Tree Day ac tivities this month!
If you haven’t already reg istered, now is the time to book in.
We are pleased to be head ing out to a site on the Bogan Way adjacent to the Gol dridge Estate on Saturday, 26 July to provide a green buffer for the site.
We look forward to working with Forbes Shire Council once again.
We are heading back out to the Parkes Wetlands for planting on Sunday, 27 July. This area has evolved beautifully since our last
planting at the site.
Parkes’ former Sewage Treatment Plant maturation ponds are now taking shape as a high-value, hydrological-
ly complex wetland, capable of supporting a diverse range of native fauna and flora. Our plantings work in with the naturally occurring Fuzzy Box species that occur in the area surrounding
Make sure that you take the time to find out about what you are planting and how it might contribute in the long term to the local en-
This is a fantastic opportunity for our community to come together, plant a tree or shrub, create some mem ories and meet new people.
At both sites, we kick off at 10am and we will be crank ing up the barbecue for
lunch, so we would really appreciate registrations via the Planet Ark website.
From the research undertaken by Planet Ark, it was found that Australians spend just three per cent of their week in nature, yet almost three hours a day on their phones, primarily on social media.
In an age where people are spending more time indoors immersed in technology, we explored the possibilities of bringing nature and technology together.
our social media or the Planet Ark website.
Parkes National Tree Day will be held on Sunday, 27 July from 10am at Akuna Road. Find out more details via our social media or the Planet Ark website.
Of course, you can always go directly to the National Tree Day website for further information.
If you can’t register online, drop me a line on 0418 611 053.
For further information
Yard record as extra heavyweights sell for $430/head
It’s only three weeks since lambs reached $400 a head for the first time at Forbes’ Central West Livestock Exchange.
This week a new record was set of $430 a head, the outstanding pen of lambs sold by Kevin Miller Whitty Lennon and Co on Tuesday.
The grain-assisted 12-month-old second cross lambs are estimated 42kg carcase weight, the agents said.
The NSW record stands at $431 at Griffith.
CATTLE SALE
Monday, 30 June
Yarding 960 (up 76)
Numbers lifted this sale with agents yarding 960 head.
Quality was mixed with some excellent lines of well bred feeder cattle offered along with the secondary types.
The usual buyers were
present and competing in a mostly firm market but one that fluctuated with breed type and quality.
Yearling steers to feed sold from 366 to 468c for middleweights with heavies receiving 380 to 470c/ kg.
Those to processors sold from 380 to 417c/kg.
The heifer portion to processors lifted on a better offering to receive from 375 to 415c/kg.
Those to feed ranged from 335c to 408c/kg.
Heavy steers and bullocks sold from 320 to 417c/kg.
Grown heifers ranged from 310 to 399c/kg. Cows were 6 to 12c better with heavy 2 score 270 to 298c/ kg and 3 score 292c to 332c/kg.
SHEEP SALE
Tuesday, 1 July
Yarding 33,900 (down 400)
Numbers eased slightly this sale with agents yarding 33,900 head.
There was 26,600 lambs penned and quality continues to be mixed with some good runs of finished trade and heavyweight lambs penned along with the secondary types.
The usual buyers were present and competing in another dearer market.
Trade weight lambs lifted $10 to $15 with 20-24kg selling from $215 to $274/ head.
Heavy lambs to 26kg sold from $250 to $307/head.
Extra heavyweights were also $10 to $12 better selling from $282 to a yard record $430/head.
Carcase prices averaged from 1050 to 1106c/kg with many sales more. The best heavy hoggets reached $264/head.
There was 7300 mutton penned and quality was
very mixed.
Prices lifted with Merino ewes selling from $137 to $248/head.
Crossbreds sold from $135 to $266/head with Dorper ewes ranging from $130 to $240/head. Heavy Merino wethers reached $261/head.
FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVESTOCK REPORTING AGENCY
PIG SALE
Friday, 27 June
A very light yarding all around saw sow prices drop 30 to 40 cents/kg, mainly quality and weight related.
Bacon and pork numbers were also reduced.
One pen of bacon saw prices slide by $10 p/head.
Pork were $10 to $15 dearer on last fortnight.
Suckers remained firm.
FROM VC REID SMITH LIVESTOCK
Kevin Miller Whitty Lennon and Co agent Luke Whitty sold this pen of lambs from HK and MD Williams for a record of $430 a head.
Our preschool a holistic hub for children and families
At Forbes Preschool, we pride ourselves on being more than just a Preschool - we are a holistic hub for children and families, dedicated to giving every child the very best start in life.
Our vision is driven by a commitment to quality, inclusive, play-based education, delivered in partnership with local service providers and the broader community.
What sets Forbes Preschool apart is our wraparound approach to early childhood education.
The child is at the centre of everything we do, and our programs are thoughtfully designed to support the whole child - socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively.
From the moment families walk through our doors, they are welcomed into a nurturing environment where everyone belongs.
We proudly support children and families accessing the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), employing allied health professionals on-site and working closely with other local services.
right, offering a breakfast program and hands-on healthy cooking experiences with their class.
This makes Forbes Preschool a one-stop shop for early childhood development and family support.
Our Healthy Beginnings Program ensures children start their day
Children learn about nutrition, life skills, and the joy of preparing meals together.
Cultural learning is another vital part of our curriculum.
Through the Ninganah No More Program, children engage with
Aboriginal culture and learn Wiradjuri language, fostering a deep respect for our First Nations people and a strong sense of identity and belonging.
Our innovative Pop Up Preschool brings early learning into local parks, creating opportunities to connect with families and younger children in informal, welcoming settings.
It’s a place where everyone is
invited to join in the fun and get to know the preschool before enrolling.
Beyond the classroom, Forbes Preschool features three community spaces used regularly by local groups.
The local Mothers Group meets weekly, and our pop-in clinic with child and family health nurses is open to all - no appointment needed.
These services strengthen the
fabric of our community and ensure families feel supported at every stage of their journey.
Transition to school is a major focus at Forbes Preschool.
We work closely with local schools and run a targeted program throughout the year to prepare children for formal education.
This includes developing vital school-readiness skills such as speech and language, social interactions, fine motor development, and core strength - all delivered through fun, play-based activities that keep children engaged and confident.
Looking to the future, we’re excited to be managing a community refurbishment project in partnership with Forbes Shire Council. The old Nelson Park tennis courts and cricket pitch are being transformed into a dynamic shared play space.
The new surface will feature courts for tennis, netball, basketball, and handball, along with hopscotch and a huge surrounding bike track - a space for the whole community to enjoy.
As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain deeply grateful for the support of our incredible community.
At Forbes Preschool, we love what we do, and we’re proud to play a part in building a brighter futuretogether.
Nurturing minds, building futures: The Forbes North way
Forbes North Public School is dedicated to creating a nurturing and supportive environment where every student can thrive.
We believe that education is a partnership between teachers, parents, and students, and we work together to set high expectations that encourage all students to reach their full potential.
Our aim is to develop confident, creative, and independent learners who are ready to face the future.
Our school boasts a team of dedicated and experienced teachers who are committed to providing quality education.
They utilise effective teaching strategies and engage in continuous professional development to ensure they are providing the best learning experiences for our students.
The Learning and Support Team plays a crucial role in this process, offering tailored support for students who may need extra help. This includes school learning and support officers who work closely with teachers and students, as well as a speech therapist. At Forbes North, every child is known, valued, and cared for, ensuring that their individual needs are met.
To enhance our students’ educational experiences, we offer a variety of programs aimed at supporting their overall development:
Every morning, our Breakfast Club provides students with a meal to start their day. This initiative helps ensure that students are focused and ready to learn.
To improve attendance rates, we offer a Bridge to School Bus service. This initiative helps students by
OUR SCHOOL FACILITIES
making it easier for them to get to school regularly and on time.
Our Kitchen and Garden Program teaches students valuable life skills, including gardening, cooking, and nutrition. Students learn about healthy eating.
For our youngest learners, the
is a vibrant hub for learning and creativity.
It offers a wide range of books and resources, as well as a space for students to engage in reading and research, fostering a love for literacy.
We prioritise cultural awareness and inclusivity through our Aboriginal Education support programs.
The Yarning Circle provides a safe space for discussions, storytelling, and sharing cultural knowledge, enriching our students’ understanding of Aboriginal heritage. In addition to educational support, we also focus on the well-being of our students:
Our canteen is open five days a week, providing healthy meal options that cater to the dietary needs of our students.
Our large sports facilities allow students to participate in a variety of sports, promoting physical fitness and teamwork.
◀ Students are encouraged in both individual and team sports, helping them build confidence and social skills.
Transition to School Program ensures a smooth and welcoming introduction to school life.
This program helps children adjust to their new environment, making them feel secure and confident as they begin their educational journey.
Our newly renovated library
Come to Forbes North Public School where every child is
We encourage our students to engage in both individual and team sports, helping them build confidence and social skills.
Forbes North Public School is a community where every student is inspired to learn, grow, and succeed. Together, we are building a brighter future for our children, equipping them with the skills and confidence they need to become the leaders of tomorrow. Come and be a part of our vibrant school community!
▲ Forbes North’s dedicated and experienced teachers are committed to providing quality education.
Celebrating success at Forbes High School
The first six months at Forbes High School have been a resounding success, and if we were to assign ourselves a grade, it would undoubtedly be an A.
During this semester, our students have actively engaged in a diverse array of academic, cultural, sporting, and creative pursuits.
In the classroom, our students have thrived, benefiting from a wide range of enriching learning experiences facilitated by our dedicated and fully qualified staff.
Their passion and commitment ensure that all student needs are met, whether through extension opportunities or tailored support for individual learning requirements.
Our HSC cohort has particularly excelled, participating in nonassessable exams that provide valuable practice and high-quality feedback in preparation for the upcoming Trial HSC in Term 3.
Having reviewed all student reports, I can confidently assert that the quality of education occurring
within our classrooms is exceptional.
Our students continue to foster a positive school culture at Forbes High School.
This semester, we celebrated three spirited sporting carnivals that showcased student pride and enthusiasm.
We are particularly excited for Term 3 and the annual Ben Hall Shield - a competition that has expanded to include The Henry Lawson High School alongside Blayney High School.
Additionally, our Student Representative Council led a vibrant School Spirit Week, filled with fun activities designed to strengthen our collective spirit and pride in our school community.
Forbes High School is also committed to maintaining facilities of the highest standard.
We are thrilled to announce that we have been selected for a significant upgrade that aims to support all students in achieving their potential. As we advance with the implementation
of High Potential Gifted Education, this upgrade will include specialised learning spaces that will empower every student to excel.
Our students have engaged in a variety of cultural activities throughout the semester. The Nginhagu Dance group continues to flourish, allowing students to develop their dance expertise.
There have been numerous collaborative opportunities for this
a diverse array of academic, cultural,
group to connect with our partner schools and the wider Forbes community.
Additionally, students participate in other Aboriginal programs such as Girri Girri and the Girinyalanha Girls Group, all under the guidance of our passionate Aboriginal Education Team.
In the realm of Creative and Performing Arts, our students have performed with great enthusiasm at the Cowra and Forbes Eisteddfod.
They also had the opportunity to showcase their talents in Sydney at Pulse Alive.
With weekly choir and band rehearsals, we eagerly anticipate the second semester and our annual MADD (Music, Art, Dance, and Drama) night.
Together, we are building a bright future at Forbes High School, where every student has the opportunity to shine.
Forbes High School students have actively engaged in
sporting, and creative pursuits in the first half of 2025.
PHOTOS: Supplied
6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Grantchester. 2.05 Patience. 3.05 Jane Austen: Rise Of A Genius. Final. 4.00 A Life In Ten Pictures. 4.55 Spicks And Specks. 5.25 QI. 6.00 Landline. 6.30 Australian Story. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 That Blackfella Show. 8.30 Midsomer Murders. 10.00 Bay Of Fires. 10.55 Little Disasters. 11.40 David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef. Final. 12.40 Rage.
6.00 Shopping. 8.30 Better Homes. 11.00 Harry’s Practice. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Medical Emergency. 12.30 My Greek Odyssey. 1.30 Better Homes. 4.00 Harry’s Practice. 4.30 Medical Emergency. 5.00 Slow Train Through Africa. 6.00 Every Bite Takes You Home. 6.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 1.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Horse Racing. Members Appreciation Day, Flemington Finals Race Day and Caloundra Cup Day. 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: Evan Almighty. (2007) Steve Carell. 9.30 MOVIE: No Hard Feelings. (2023) Jennifer Lawrence, Andrew Barth Feldman. 11.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Motor Racing. NDRC Top Doorslammer. Round 6. Nitro Champs. 4.00 Motor MythBusters. 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. 12.00 ABC
Escape To The Country. 1.30 Discover. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. 3.00 Business Builders. 3.40 The Yorkshire Vet. 4.40 Escape To The Country. 7.40 Vicar Of Dibley. 8.30
Aboard. 11.30
Programs.
Roadshow. 6.30 Compass. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Spicks And Specks. 8.00 Bay Of Fires. 8.50 Little Disasters. 9.40 Namatjira Project: The Quest For Justice. 11.05 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. 11.35 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 3.00 Play School. 3.30 The Snail And The Whale. 4.20 Dino Dex. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Super Monsters. 7.00 Andy And The Band. 7.35 Moominvalley.
Programs. 12.00 The Fishing Show By AFN. 1.00 Fishing Addiction. 2.00 Fishy Business. 2.30 Fish’n Mates. 3.00 Mighty Planes. 4.00 Close Encounters Down Under. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: The Transporter. (2002) 10.30 MOVIE: Transporter 2. (2005) 12.20 Late Programs.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Although you don’t like to change plans once they’re set, once again, you might find that doing so can make a big difference in your favor. Meanwhile, family matters dominate the weekend.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) You continue to get encouragement for your proposals, including some support from unlikely sources. Use this positive flow to move forward with your plans. Good luck!
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Family matters are dominant this week. It’s a good time to be with those you love. It’s also a good time to contact and reunite with loved ones with whom you’ve lost touch.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Be careful not to allow differences of opinion to create unpleasant feelings, especially in the workplace. A neutral observer could check out the situation and suggest a resolution.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Great Australian Detour. 12.30 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Broncos v Tigers. 2.30 NRLW Wrap. Return. 3.15 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 1. Canberra Raiders v St George Illawarra Dragons. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Wimbledon 2025 Pre-Show. 8.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 6. 12.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 Jordie, Sam & Ted’s Adventures. 11.45 The Big Adventure. 1.20 Wife Swap Australia. 2.50 Australia’s Cheapest Weddings. 3.50 America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League. 5.45 MOVIE: Surf’s Up. (2007) 7.30 MOVIE: Kindergarten Cop. (1990) 9.50 MOVIE: Red Sparrow. (2018) 12.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.10 GCBC. 12.30 The Brighter Side: Save. Grow. Dream. 1.00 What’s Up Down Under. 1.30 The
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Wide World Of Sports. 11.00 NRL Sunday Footy Show. 11.45 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 1. Sydney Roosters v New Zealand Warriors. 1.30 Rugby Union. International Test Series. Game 1. Australia v Fiji. 3.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 18. Manly Sea Eagles v South Sydney Rabbitohs. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Travel Guides. 8.10 60 Minutes. 9.10 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 7. 12.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 MOVIE: The Siege Of Pinchgut. (1959) 2.40 MOVIE: Silver Bears. (1978) 5.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 1. North Queensland Cowboys v Gold Coast Titans. 7.00 Keeping Up Appearances. 7.30 MOVIE: A Star Is Born. (2018) 10.15 MOVIE: Fools Rush In. (1997) 12.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Get Arty. 10.00 Jordie, Sam & Ted’s Adventures. 10.30 Holistic Living. 11.10 Australia’s Cheapest Weddings. 12.20 Baking It. 1.35 Home And Away. 4.15 Dancing With The Stars. 6.00 Extreme Animal Transport. 6.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: S.V.U. 10.30 Bones. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Are You RV Safe? 10.30 10 Minute Kitchen. 11.00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield. 11.30 Roads Less Travelled. 12.00 MasterChef Australia. 1.10 My Market Kitchen. 1.30 Cook With Luke. 2.00 Good Chef Bad Chef. 2.30 Farm To
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.30 MOVIE: Support Your Local Gunfighter. (1971) 3.30 International Rugby Union Australia v Fiji Post-Match. 4.00 MOVIE: The Unforgiven. (1960) 6.30 M*A*S*H. 7.30 Wimbledon 2025 Pre-Show. 8.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 7. 9.10 MOVIE: Sully. (2016) 11.10 The Closer. 12.10 Late Programs.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) While the Lion’s Den is the center of attention this week with family matters dominating much of your time, workplace issues are also important. Try to find a balance between them.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) The future of a new relationship could depend on how much the usually impatientto-get-things-done Virgo is willing to stop pushing and let things happen naturally.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Worry over a loved one’s well-being is eased with good news from a sympathetic source. Your continued show of love and support is important. Stay with it.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) This is a good time to consider mending fences with someone you wish was back in your life. Forget about blame and focus on the good things you once shared.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) This is a good week to start researching information regarding whatever changes you’re considering, whether it involves a new home, a new location, or a new job.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) A longanticipated job opportunity could turn out to be less than you expected, but appearances might be deceiving. Check it out before you decide it’s not for you.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Good news! Adapting to a new situation might come more easily than you expected. You can look for continued support from colleagues who appreciate your contributions.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Someone you care for might need more reassurance from the typically “unemotional” Pisces. Go ahead. Open up, and you might be surprised at what you find when you do.
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
1 Which units of mass are divided into 16 ounces (6)
7 What do we call a buyer of goods (8)
8 Which term describes a scarcity (6)
9 What was the given name of Dicken’s Scrooge (8)
10 What is a steady current of water (6)
11 To have put money to use, is to have done what (8)
14 What are small flavoured confections (8)
18 Which tool is used for spreading plaster or the like (6)
19 Name a type of zither with metal strings (8)
21 Who was the first Australian-born GovernorGeneral, Sir Isaac ... (6)
22 To discontinue meetings of Parliament until the next session, is to do what (8)
23 Which mythological deities are part human, and part goat (6)
DOWN
1 What is an architectural support for a statue, or the like (8)
2 Which people care for the sick and infirm (6)
4 What is a small island called (4)
5 Which celestial bodies move about the sun in an elongated orbit (6)
6 To go back on one’s word, is to do what (6)
12 Name another term for sacristies (8)
E-QUATIONS
15 Which term describes a literary or artistic work (6)
16 What is a call for more (6)
17 Name a silver-white metallic element, symbol Co (6)
20 Who, in the Bible, were the three wise men (4)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
1 PECULATE
(a) To pilfer or embezzle
(b) To theorise
(c) To congeal
2 RUTABAGA
(a) A drug used against the fragility of small blood vessels
3 To be contriving, is to be doing what (8)
Letters
Some
13 What is the separation of smaller molecules from larger ones (8)
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
(b) An Indian peasant
(c) The Swedish turnip
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:
Digits (7)
Enviromental Control System (3)
Excessively devoted fans (7)
Graze for payment (5)
Liqueur: ... Maria (3)
Pungent salad leaf (5)
Scorch (5)
Skill (3)
Small crown (5)
Student Rep. Council (3)
VIEW hears of Eugowra flood terror
By SUE CUNNINGHAM
View (Voice, Interests and Education of Women) is a national women’s organisation bringing together women to develop skills, make connections and enjoy social activities.
Every month Forbes View Club holds a lunch meeting where members can socialise, listen to and learn about various interests and community activities.
To start our June meeting of Forbes View Club, held on Thursday 13 at Club Forbes, Helen Pitt (President) read a few letters received from our sponsored students expressing their gratitude for our support and telling members the activities they are involved with and what they
Guest speaker Anne South with Forbes VIEW Club committee member, Loris Molloy. TO: Supplied
like doing at school.
Helen then introduced our guests speaker, Anne South a local resident of Eugowra.
devastating Eugowra flood of 2022.
Anne spoke about her personal experiences during the
Anne described how the water rose quickly and seeing a towering wall of water, carrying the freshly cut
canola, bearing down on her home.
She remembered how she and her daughter scrambled to safety.
“Safety at the time,” she said, “was pushing my daughter and one-week-old baby through the manhole into the ceiling.”
She remembers standing on a ladder for six hours with water lapping at her neck, waiting to be rescued.
She explained how she had gotten her elderly next-door neighbour into her house before the water got too high, and then had her stand on the kitchen bench so her head was out of the water.
They could hear the helicopters outside but had no way of signalling them until her daughter broke through the roofing.
She and the baby were transport directly to hospital, while SES rescuers came in a boat to get her and her neighbour to safety.
“Animals, vehicles and houses being washed away, stranded residents yelling for help, clinging to trees and the roaring of the water are powerful things”, she said.
“Intense counselling has helped a lot but there are images that will stay with me forever,” Anne commented.
She went on to mention the recovery and how grateful Eugowra residents were for the support they received from their rescuers, support workers and local communities around them for their help and assistance in providing basic things like clothing, places to live, financial support etc.
Thank you to Anne for inspiring story of chaos and survival and being able to speak about it.
Club events: Thank you to all who turned up to help at the Bunnings barbecue raising over $500 and to those who did Meals on Wheels in May.
Our next lunch will be on Thursday 10 July where we will be celebrating Christmas in July so break out your Christmas colours and jingly decorations ready for some fun.
Members are asked bring along a donation for the Smith Family Winter Appeal. Please place your donation in an envelope and drop in the basket at the lunch.
Those attending are asked to RSVP to your contact person before Friday 4 July.
Busy times for Red Bend’s successful cattle team
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Following Red Bend’s success at Sydney Royal the cattle team has continued to impress with outstanding results at Dubbo Show.
Day one of the show was parade judging where students were judged on how well they handle their animals.
There were more than 140 students competing and the Red Bend cattle team were thrilled to have Alana Haynes awarded champion parader with Kourosh Bavafa, Finn Brown and Summer Baker in the finals.
Following parade judging was junior judging testing the students ability to judge the animals.
This saw Alana and Kourosh in finals again where they both placed
fifth in their age groups.
Day two saw the cattle team awarded two big ribbons including Most Successful Limousin Exhibitor and Most Successful Bos Indicus Breed (Santa Gertrudis) Exhibitor.
To end a successful day Mrs Wynberg and Mrs Earl who competed in the Golden Oldies parading class with Red Bend’s cow and calf were awarded runners up.
The heifer show was held on day three with Mrs Wynberg’s Angus heifer both receiving third place with the cattle team being announced as Best Maintained School team.
As the cattle team continues to perform at shows around the state their numbers continue to grow.
Seventeen students from years seven to 10 have recently joined the
cattle team taking their numbers up to 31 with cattle team teacher Mrs Susan Earl saying all students are keen.
“My experienced kids are a wonderful bunch and I can see development all the time. They were fabulous in Sydney and then again in Dubbo,” Mrs Earl said.
The more experienced students have now teamed up with a new cattle team member to mentor them.
The team is currently breaking in 16 steers for competition in Scone in October and five heifers for the local shows in term three.
The cattle team also completed an artificial insemination program in which seven females were joined from the school herd.
“It is busy,” Mrs Earl added.
Hanrahan and Quirk lead way
MEN’S GOLF
By SHORT PUTT
The weekend golf promised to be another epic contest as the conditions looked to not favour the stronger hitters but be beneficial for all.
The frosts made the greens hard but the sunshine kept the players warmed up, which was reflected in the scores.
The Men’s Foursomes Championships was played over 36 holes, in conjunction with a Daily Comp, sponsored by FINDEX (Forbes).
The daily comp had prizes on each day, thus encouraging those who did not perform as well as expected on Day 1 to return on Day 2 for some belated glory.
The results across each day indicate that scoring was not easy, made even more difficult by the need for each pair to ‘click’, but they did improve on Day 2.
Player numbers were good on both days, considering the weather and the format, with 24 pairs on Day 1 and nine pairs on Day 2 participating in a tight battle.
The Foursomes Scratch champions were C Hanrahan/Archie Quirk (148), combining well for their score.
The Scratch runners-up were P Dawson/J Betland (150). Both pairs improved on the second day, but Caleb and Archie held their lead to dominate.
The Foursomes Handicap scores usually throw up some interesting results, but this year it was a demonstration of the dominance by Caleb and Archie who were the Handicap winners with 138 nett, well ahead of Handicap Runnersup P Pymont/A Ruperto on 145 nett.
The Day 1 Scratch winners were the pairing of Caleb Hanrahan and Archie Quirk. Their score of 76 showed the difficulty in developing a combination very quickly.
They had six bogeys and two birdies to finish one shot better than the runners-up, Ecky Dawson and John Betland, who were one shot better on the front-9 but slipped on the back-9.
The Handicap contest was also a tight result.
Early starters Paul Pymont and Adam Ruperto brushed aside the frost and felt comfortable drilling the ball straight at the hole, which seemed to work to give them 72 nett despite a couple of doublebogeys.
Runners-up were Sean Brindle and Ian Coombs with a tidy 73.5 nett.
They were in the last group of the day and started to feel numb fingers in their last few holes but a par on the last brought smiles to their face.
The ball sweep went to 78 nett on count back, going to: 74.5 – P Wells/H Steele-Park, Sallaway/R Murray; 76.5 – K Herbert/J Shaw, N Duncan/S Uphill; 78 – B Tooth/D Bernardi.
The NTP’s went to: 9th – M Walton; 18th – R Murray.
The 2’s were very scarce with only three being scored, with two of those by the M Walton/C Byrnes pair.
The winner of the 3rd hole Super Pin is recorded as Matt Walton who did convert for a ’2’.
Day 2 of the daily comp saw a small field with most pairings improving their score, although
three pairs went backwards.
But there was a big gap in the scores between those in real contention and those that wanted to enjoy the day of golf and had a passable chance at some glory.
The Day 2 Scratch winners were the pairing of Caleb Hanrahan and Archie Quirk, again.
Their score of 72 was a marked improvement on the first day score. And it needed to be to stay in top spot.
Runners-up were Ecky Dawson and John Betland, who also improved but still fell one shot back on 73. A ‘7’ on the 7th hole was the real difference.
The Handicap contest had an even smaller gap than the first day.
Niel Duncan and Stephen Uphill improved by four shots for their 72.5 nett.
Runners-up were Paul Pymont and Adam Ruperto with an agonising 73 nett, having gone backwards from Day 1 by a single shot.
Three bogeys to start their round did not help.
The ball sweep went to 81 nett on count back, going to: 77.5 –Sallaway/Murray; 81 – Grallelis/J House.
The NTP’s went to: 9th – R Murray; 18th – C Hanrahan.
Both greens were hard to hit it seemed.
The 2’s were once again very scarce with nil being scored.
The winner of the 3rd hole Super Pin was Liam Fraser with a shot to 207 cm. Once again he was in the first group which made it hard for those following.
The scores generally were higher than expected from the conditions, but lower than last year.
Nerves seemed to play a part on Day 2, except of course the leaders who revel under such pressure.
The Walton/Byrnes did well on
cept for A grade nearest the pin on the 11th hole won by one of Parkes keenest, Nym Dziuba.
Day 1 to snare two of the sharpshooter prizes. Reggie Murray spread his talent over two days with NTP’s on different holes.
This format promotes forgiveness and urges strong recovery.
As an example Stephen Uphill hit a good drive on the 15th with Niel Duncan to play the second shot.
Uncharacteristically Niel duckhooked his shot into the trees beside the lagoon but the ball was still dry.
Stephen then fashioned a shot from a steep downhill lie, under the branches, over the water, through the large trunks and into clear ground near the green.
But a weak chip resulted in a bogey which was better than what it could have been.
Another calamity was Jacob Reid missing a very, very short putt on the 18th.
Another pair found water on both the 4th and 15th holes scoring an ‘8’ on each hole.
Needless to say they did not feature in the ball sweep but may be a support fight for Kosta Zu.
The 7th hole brought ruin to a couple of pairs on Day 2.
Harry C and Cam Mc doubled the hole number there, going OB a number of times to finish with ‘14’. Most of those came from approach shots near to the green.
At the other end of the hole Todd C found the OB off the tee, then he and Dave Q struggled to the green to card a ‘Bo Derek’. Note that surnames have been omitted to protect the sanity of the players.
A stand-out shot was played on Day 2 by the escape guru in Stephen Uphill.
On the 12th hole Stephen put a lovely tee shot down the middle.
Partner Niel Duncan deliberated on his club selection, made a
choice and hit the shot.
The ball landed on the back of the ‘hill’ in the green and rolled away. Stephen, with support from Niel, played a chip shot that landed on top of the hill, rolled sedately down the slope and plopped into the hole for a birdie. It was ‘easy as pie’, but unrepeatable in another 100 shots.
There was no Sunday Stableford Medley as there were no participants.
Here is the news:
The Wallace Cup is progressing well.
Wins have been recorded by Cam McMillan, Brad Ashton, Ken Sanderson, Kim Herbert and Stephen Uphill. Results of other matches are yet to be posted.
This leads into the Quarter Finals which should see some good matches.
H/Pro Will has organised a TaylorMade Fitting event for Wed 9 July, commencing at 11 am.
There are still a few time slots available in the afternoon so give him a ring to book in.
Crystal ball time: Saturday 5 July is the Monthly Medal, sponsored by Walkers Ag-n-Vet. Sunday 4 July is a Stableford Medley.
VETS GOLF
“We nearly made it,” was the word last Thursday prior to presentations in twin towns veterans golf at Parkes with the host club surging in numbers supplying 13 of the 27 players in attendance.
For the past few weeks Forbes has dominated playing numbers winning the twin towns shield on each occasion and did so again last week with their best six individual scores totalling 197 to Parkes’ 187.
The closest it has been for weeks.
Not only that Forbes dominated at the ‘trophy’ table winning all ex-
B grade went to popular Forbes ace Bruce Chandler. At the 4th two Forbes lefties, A grade Barry Shine, B grade Francis Hanns. Social mayor of Bogan Gate playing out of the Forbes club Steve Edwards took major honours being the only competitor to break handicap scoring 37 points to win by two from fellow club mate Kim Herbert, runner-up again after filling the same at the Lachlan Valley the week prior in Condobolin. Ball sweep to 30 points. 33 Gordon Pritchard (P), Steve Uphill (F), 32 John Fowler (P), Michael Lynch (P), Allan Rees (F), Stuart French (F), 31 Ian Ward (P), 30 Lindsay Elliott (P).
This week Forbes plays host to twin towns vets with officials from both clubs hoping to the continuing support show last week despite the chilly surrounds but brilliant sunshine. Noms from 9.30am for a 10am shot gun start.
As with Forbes the previous T/T meeting prior to presentations on Thursday a minute’s silence was absorbed in respect to the passing for popular Parkes member Graham Cooke whose grave side funeral service will be held on Friday (July 4).
It was also mentioned at presentations that another popular member in Parkes and twin golfer Rod Luyt has been honoured with life membership.
Well deserved.
Zero degrees, frost, wind and sleety rain couldn’t stop four brave Tuesday social golfers for 12 holes last week where despite no competition being played it can be reported that Ted Morgan was best of the ‘pack’ with 20 points from Barry Parker and Ross Williams 18 while Andrew Norton-Knight brought up the rear with a steady 14 points.
Be part of Tuesday golf any week, ball toss at 9am.
All invited to enjoy the hit and if interested coffee after where the problems of the world take preference to all.
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
SSAA members right on target at rimfire rifle event
SPORTING SHOOTERS
By TONY BRATTON
Results of the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre rimfire rifle shoot on Sunday 29 June 2025.
The weather was sunny and cold with a light breeze from the south west at 4kph and a temperature of 15 degrees.
The range officers were Anthony Bratton, Norm Brook, Brian Neilsen and Mia Condon.
Scorers were Steve Hindmarch, John Dean and Bruce Dent.
The results of the 25metre Buffalo target shoot were: John Gorman, 270/270; John Dunkley, 270/270; Bruce Dent, 270/270; Steve Hindmarch, 270/270; Brian Neilsen, 270/270; John Dean, 268/270; Norm Brook, 264/270; Tony Grant, 262/270; Anthony Bratton, 262/270; Barbara Brook, 261/270; Mia Condon,253/270; Chris Parris, 234/270; Walter Wiyepe, 196/270 and John Spalding shot practice only.
50m Fox target shoot: John Gorman, 250/250; John Dunkley,
250/250; Brian Neilsen, 250/250; Bruce Dent, 249/250; Norm Brook, 249/250; Chris Parris, 247/250; Barbara Brook, 246/250; John Dean, 246/250; Mia Condon, 246/250; Tony Grant, 246/250; Steve Hindmarch, 246/250; Anthony Bratton, 245/250; John Spalding, 193/250 and Walter Wiyepe, 176/250.
75m Bear target: John Dean, 120/120; John Dunkley, 120/120; John Gorman, 118/120; Steve Hindmarch, 118/120; Brian Neilsen, 117/120; Bruce Dent, 115/120; Chris Parris, 114/120; Tony Grant, 114/120; Norm Brook, 109/120; Anthony Bratton, 103/120; Barbara Brook, 88/120; Walter Wiyepe, 55/120; John Spalding, 53/120 and Mia Condon, 47/120; Jamie Savage and Jesse Savage shot practice only.
100metre Fly target: John Gorman, 105/120; Steve Hindmarch, 99/120; John Dean, 98/120; Brian Neilsen, 97/120; Chris Parris, 96/120; John Dunkley, 95/120; Bruce Dent, 95/120; Anthony Bratton, 89/120; Barbara Brook, 76/120; Tony Grant, 75/120; Mia Condon, 58/120; Norm Brook, 38/120; Wal-
ter Wiyepe, 26/120; John Spalding, Jamie Savage and Jesse Savage shot practice only.
The 100metre Fly target shoot was the second round of the rimfire shield.
The Centre-fire rifle shoot was held after the Rim-fire shoot. The weather at the Centre-fire rifle shoot was warm with a cool breeze from the south west at 4kph and a temperature of 17 degrees.
There were 10 members in attendance.
The shooters in attendance were Steve Hindmarch, Tony Grant, Chris Parris, Max Gates, John Spalding, Jamie Savag, Jesse Savage, John Dunkley, Norm Brook and Anthony Bratton.
Only two shooters shot the second round of the Centre-fire shield, they were Steve Hindmarch, 87/120 and John Dunkley, 73/120.
The range officer was Anthony Bratton and Norm Brook.
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 6 July starting at 10am.
The next Wednesday shoot will be on Wednesday 16 July starting 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 Centrefire range.
All events 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 attend any of these shoots to 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 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.
Members are reminded that 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.
The by-monthly meeting for August 2025 will be held at the Forbes Sport & Rec Club on Wednesday 13 August 2025 at 8pm.
It’s minor pairs finals time
BOWLS
By TARA SHAW
COMPETITION
This Saturday our club will be hosting the Men’s Midwestern Region Triples for our area.
Caragabal will be playing Molong at 9am and the winner of this game will play Parkes in the afternoon. The winner in the afternoon will go onto regional.
We wish them the best of luck in their games.
Also, on Saturday at 1pm, our 2025 Minor Pairs Championship will be played.
Brett Davenport and Clint Hurford will battle it out against Ben Parslow and Dale Scott to see who will be crowned the Minor Pairs Champions for 2025.
Major Triples are underway and continue to keep rolling through.
Pat O’Neill, Mick Merritt and Skip Shane Bolam played Ian Hodges, Shayne Staines and Bert Bayley.
This was going to be great battle
from the get-go and the score card backed this up.
Bert’s team got off to a flying start until Shane’s team found their groove and got runs on the board on the 4th.
13-9 on 10, Bert’s team could not get comfortable and afford to slack off and they didn’t.
15-10 on 12, Shane took the next 3 to trail 12-15. 21-16, Bert still in the lead but again, needed to keep their momentum and that’s what they did winning the game 26-20.
SOCIAL BOWLS
Wednesday – no notes at time of publication.
Thursday – with the weather a little more generous than the previous day, 16 bowlers took to the greens to test their skills in cool winds.
Terry Molloy and Scott McKellar played Dale Maynard and Alan Hilder. Scott and Terry lead 18-3 on 8 until Dale and Alan started to come back.
Picking up a 4 on the 15th, helped
Dale and Alan get to double figures. It wasn’t enough to win the game with Terry and Scott in front 31-19.
Noel Hocking and Al Phillips had a battle against Tara Shaw and John Kennedy.
Both teams just nudging in front of each other all the way through.
John was up 7-6 on 7, Al in front 13-8 on 12. 13 all on 15, 16 all on 18.
Al and Noel took the last two ends to win 21-16.
Max and Cherie Vincent came up against Phil Hocking and Lyall Strudwick.
7-6 to Lyall on 9, Max and Cherie hit back to level on 12, 9 all. 10 all on 14, 12 all on 17.
Max and Cherie took the next end but Phil and Lyall gained 4 on the last two to win 16-13.
Bobby Grant and Laurie Crouch showed off their skills and experience against Cliff Nelson and Dale Scott.
The card showed a one-sided game with Bobby and Laurie leading 9-3 on 9, 15-6 on 14.
Both teams winning equal 3 ends of the last 6 but only gaining 1 point an end gave Bobby and Laurie the win, 18-9.
Winning rink: Noel Hocking and Al Phillips. Losing rink: Max and Cherie Vincent.
Jackpot winner: Terry Molloy.
Sunday – Numbers were a little lower on Sunday compared to the usual numbers but that didn’t stop 14 keen bowlers enjoying the morning sunshine on the greens.
Billy Cowell led for Peter Tisdell when they drew against Alan Hilder and Peter Mackay.
Billy and Peter proved a dynamic duo when they lead 10-1 on 8.
Alan and Peter took the first two ends after the break, but Billy and Peter hit back and ran to the finish line winning the game 19-8.
Max Vincent and Lyall Strudwick went down by 3 when they played our newest bowler Dick Sharkey who led for John Kennedy.
Dick and John lead 11-4 at oranges and continued their good luck on
the back 8.
Max and Lyall starting to catch up, but Dick and John won 16-13.
Our triples game was played by Dale Maynard, Cliff Nelson and Cherie Vincent against Geoff Brown, Terry Molloy and John Cutler.
John’s team gelled well together and led 8-1 at half time.
The second half was a different story.
Cherie’s team made a miraculous comeback winning all 6 ends and won the game 11-8.
Winning rink: Billy Cowell and Peter Tisdell.
Losing rink: Max Vincent and Lyall Strudwick.
Resting touchers: Cherie Vincent and Geoff Brown. Raspberry: Terry Molloy.
Jackpot won by: Dick Sharkey Chicken raffle winners: Lyall Strudwick, Dick Sharkey x 2, Dale Maynard, Big Jack, Ian Hodges, Woodsy, John Cutler and Billy Cowell.
Shayne Staines bowls in the weekend’s major triples contest.
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
Major triples played out on the weekend, Shane Bolam, Mick Merritt and Patrick O’Neill vs Bert Bailey, Shane Staines and Ian Hodges. PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
Annabelle makes history on green
BOWLS
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Annabelle Teague is proving she is one to watch in lawn bowls.
Competing at the Champion of Champions Singles competition at Club Merrylands, Annabelle made history by becoming the youngest bowler at 14 years to make the competition’s grand final and doing so was no easy feat.
the competition when she won the 2024/2025 Women’s Major Singles at West Dubbo therefore repre senting Dubbo at the competition.
colours again and represent a club from the bush,” she said.
sectional with three bowlers in her section.
section with three wins.
top 32 in the second day of com petition playing one game in the morning which she won and ad vancing to the top 16 where she played another game in the after noon which she again won going
Annabelle said this was a hard game both physically and mentally but she was able to overcome this struggle and secure a 25 vs 22 win advancing her to the semi finals.
Up against national ranking bowler Sarah Boddington, Anna belle’s semi final game was again
physically and mentally tough as Sarah could draw within an inch of the jack.
“I was able to come away with another win 25 vs 17 advancing to the finals,” she said.
“I did not expect to make finals at all, with the talent and strong women bowlers in NSW, my goal was to make my section and maybe make top 32.
“To make finals was just the cherry on top and I was thrilled when I was told by Bowls NSW I was the youngest to ever make the Women’s Singles final.”
Annabelle recalls the grand final as an overwhelming experience and something she will not forget.
Playing against a fellow Merrylands bowler Natalie Lewis, An nabelle was unable to come home with the win with Natalie proving too good with a 14 vs 25 win over the young bowler.
“I was a little disappointed to come runners up, but then I real ised, that I am the youngest to have made the final in history, and I am the second-best women’s singles player in NSW for 2024/2025. So, I think that’s a great accomplish
ment and nothing to sneeze at considering I am only 14.
“The support from back home that I received when I returned, especially from Caragabal members, West Dubbo members and Parkes Bowling and Sports club was just brilliant and made me feel really special.”
The young bowler is in the midst of a busy few weeks, trialling for the under 25s Blues Women’s side for NSW, competing in the Australian Open Under 18s and the prestigious Golden Nugget.
In August she will then be off to Sunbury Victoria competing with the Bowls NSW Junior Tri Series team playing against Victoria and Queensland with seven other
EQUESTRIAN
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Six Red Bend Catholic College students were part of the 400 to 600 students who attended the North West Equestrian Expo in Coonabarabran.
Students from more than 100 schools participated in the high school Interschool event over five days from 30 May to 3 June. There was a wide variety of events students could compete in over the course of the event including eventing and combined training, one-day event, showjumping, dressage, team and sporting events and expo gymkhana and team hunt.
Red Bend teacher Ms Rebecca Lynch said overall students did very well in all their events with some students competing for the first time.
Tommie Parker was awarded reserve champion for 14 years boys overall point scorer.
Tommie also won the 95 division two one-day eventing, placed second in 95A2-95cm showjumping and seventh in 95 super phase showjumping.
Samantha Noakes placed first in hacking for her heat and overall reserve champion for her hacking.
She placed 11th in 1.3 division two dressage and 12th in 1.2 division two dressage.
Sarah Noakes placed second for her hacking, 11th in dressage, 13th in 1.3 division one dressage and fourteenth in 1.2 division one dressage.
Sarah also placed tenth overall in her combined training.
Mackenzie Martin placed fourth in dressage, Josie Brown placed fifth in 65 one-day eventing and Chole Magill placed ninth in dressage.
Amelia McRae also attended the Monday sporting events and the team barrels where Ms Rebecca Lynch said she did an amazing job in all events.
“The highlight of the trip was definitely watching students participate in their events with sportsmanship and talent, particularly in the team sports and watching a whole range of schools come together and engage with one another so positively,” Ms Rebecca Lynch said.
Red Bend riders’ equestrian skills on show at Interschool
Samantha Noakes was overall reserve champion for hacking.
TOS: Supplied
Cogswells, Millers lead squash comp
Court two: Markworts v Jones 15 to 13.
Wednesday July 2, week 9
Team places are now: Cogswells are in front with 147, Hardys next on 146, Jones 146, and Markworts with 134.
Highlights: Shane Moxey won set one 15-13 but Bella Henry came home the stronger 15-9, 16-7 and 15-6.
Beth Cannon and Robey McMillan had a big set for set match 16-18, 15-13, 13-15 and 15-10 then at 9-10 Robey soared ahead taking the final set 15-10.
Results
Court one: Hardys v Cogswells 11-24.
Marcus v Christine 2-5, Josh Haley v Ellie Cowhan 4-3 and Nate Markwort v Luke Bilsborough 1-6.
Will v Cooper 1-6, Harry Bilsborough v Lucy Robinson 5-2 and Lucas Jones v Noah Brown 6-1.
Thursday evening
Team places: Millers are back in the lead with 207, H Krosses now have 191 and retain second place, Pipers with 181 are third, Jones on 169 forth, JKrosses 167 fifth and Dawes follow with 164 points.
Wons to watch: Lockie Jones and Claire Bayley.
Highlights: Adam Chudleigh was up 15-9, 15-12 against Alex Bayley then Alex hit back 17-15, 16-14.
Adam gained a lead in the fifth set and secured the match 15-10.
Sub Will Markwort couldn’t quite take a set from Sandy
Paterson losing 18-20, 12-15 but he won the third 15-10 only to lose the fourth set another very close 18-20.
Results
Court one: J Krosses v Dawes 16 to 12. Alex Doyle v Jake Shaw 5-1, Shanna Nock v Bren Allegri 1-6 and sub Kim Chudleigh v TJ Markwort 6-1.
Court two: H Krosses v Pipers 9 to 12.
Jono Cannon v Sam Hornery 2-5, Cam Dale v Lockie Jones 1-6 and Claire Bayley v Oliver Paterson 6-1.
Court three: Millers v Jones 24 to 19.
Sub O Dawes v Max 5-2, Dan Bayley v Regan Acret 2-5, Lawry Brayne v Mark Webb 5-2, sub C Bayley v John Ridley 4-3 and Tim Welsh v Henry Willlis 6-1.
This week’s draw: Team 6 v 4, 1 v3, 5 v 2.
Lochie Jones and Darren Lane on court in the annual Forbes Squash Open.
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
SQUASH By DROP SHOT!
Talent on the rise
Josie McKenzie, Oliver Northey in Emerging Matildas and Socceroos
Two rising Forbes talents have been identified as football stars of our future.
Josie McKenzie has been selected to participate in the emerging Matildas camp for Capital Football, Oliver Northey the emerging Socceroos for NSW Country.
Doug McKenzie, soccer coach and Josie’s dad, explained each football federation sends its best players to the tournament in July where they’ll play under the watchful eye of Football Australia staff.
“They’ll then select a group to
go into camp, and from there they select an Under 17 team to play in the Asia Cup,” McKenzie said.
This year the girls are headed to Sydney for the championships, the boys to Melbourne.
Josie has risen through the ranks of local and representative soccer, stepping up to play with Canberra Croatia since mid-2023.
This year she’s made the move to boarding school in Canberra, where the strength and conditioning and athletics training programs compliment her football development.
At just 15, Josie’s already been playing with under 17s for Canberra Croatia and has now been selected for the Gungahlin Club’s reserve grade side.
“She’s in a good environment where she’s training with first grade two nights a week,” McKenzie said.
Beyond her club football, the attacking midfielder trialled for Capital Football and has started training with them ahead of the Emerging Matildas tournament.
Her strengths, McKenzie identified, are her speed and
fitness, her accuracy in passing and her vision.
Oliver heads to the tournament with the Country NSW U15 boys after making his Country debut with the Under 14s in 2024.
Northey also has a busy schedule of training and competition with the Western NSW Football Club and their talent support program.
Training takes the family to Bathurst and Orange regularly, and the team competes in a youth league of mostly Sydney teams across a 27-round season.
Oli’s a defensive player,
tournaments
predominantly centre defence, and has been selected to step up and captain his team across a number of games this season.
The Country squad got together for training and competition over the June long weekend in the lead-up to the tournament, which his dad Scott describes as an opportunity of a lifetime.
Josie and Oliver both brought their skills home in April, helping with school holiday coaching clinics for the next generation of players, and their successes show the strength of football in Forbes.
Oliver Northey will take the field with Country NSW in the Emerging Socceroos tournament in Melbourne. RIGHT: Josie McKenzie will play for play for Capital Football in the Emerging Matildas tournament in Sydney.
