March against violence
FORBES has stepped up on White Ribbon Day.
An estimated 1000 people marched down the main street in a community stand against men’s violence against women on Monday, November 25.
Men and young men then stood together at Lions Park, pledging to stand up, speak out and act to prevent men’s violence on women.
White Ribbon representative Guinevere Dickie said
Community steps out, hundreds take pledge on White Ribbon Day
gathering was one way to show you care, and to make change.
“Let’s make sure we never forget the women who have lost their lives,” she said.
“Let’s make sure we stand up for what is right and we continue to ght for a world where no one is made to feel afraid in their own home, or feel scared of someone that should be showing them
love, care and compassion.
“Go away from today knowing inside that you’re going to commit to being part of the solution.”
Deputy Mayor Chris Roylance said the large turnout showed how strongly the community felt about the White Ribbon Day cause.
“Our community knows rst hand what it feels like when a woman tragically
loses her life to violence perpetrated by a man,” Cr Roylance said.
“This year alone, more than 55 women have been killed by a man in a genderrelated violence - this is more than one a week and it has to stop.”
He encouraged people to have conversations that raise awareness and stop violence.
“We cannot lose any more
grandmothers, mothers, daughters, wives or friends,” he said. “Let’s lead this charge.”
Friday is International
Men’s Health Day and men are invited to join the community event at Lions Park from 7am.
Hear from guest speakers
Cr Chris Roylance and Talk 2Me Bro, enjoy a barbecue brekkie, participate in ice
baths with Talk2Me Bro and walk together around the Lake.
Member for Orange Philip Donato said governments had strengthened domestic violence laws, but more needed to be done.
“We need to call it out, we need to be role models, we need to talk to other men, we need to lead by example and stamp out this type of behaviour,” he said.
■ Continued page 6
Deputy mayor Chris Roylance, White Ribbon representative Guinevere Dickie, Forbes Family and Domestic Violence Committee’s Stevie Darcy, MP Phil Donato, Red Bend’s Mykel Coe, Forbes High’s Jamal Gordon-Barnes and Barry Merritt led the morning’s White Ribbon Day event at Lions Park where (right) community members including little Tennessee and Wanita Smith from Forbes Learning Ladder hung memorial cards in tribute to women who have lost their lives.
What’s on in and around Forbes
LETTERS TO SANTA
The holiday season is almost here and it’s time to get your letters to Santa ready! You can pop into the Forbes Council to pick up your special Santa letter templates from the front office from 8:30am to 5pm or download templates from the Forbes Sire Council website. Once your little ones have written their magical wishes and heartfelt messages, bring them back and drop them into Forbes Shire Council’s Santa Box starting November 22. Last letters to be posted by Monday, December 16. Santa and his elves can’t wait to read them!
INTERNATIONAL MEN’S DAY
Friday, November 29
Council is inviting the community to come down to Lions Park from 7am – 10am to hear from Guest speakers Cr Chris Roylance and Talk to Me Bro, enjoy a BBQ brekkie, participate in ice baths with Talk to Me Bro and enjoy a walk around the Lake.
ROTARY IPOMOEA CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL
Friday, December 6 to Sunday, December 8
Rotary Ipomoea invites you to make and decorate a Christmas tree, nativity or wreath for the 12th community Christmas Tree Festival. Exhibits need to be delivered to the Town Hall between 7am and 10am on Friday, December 6, or between 3pm and 5pm Thursday, December 5. The exhibition of trees will be opn to the public on Friday, December 6 from 1pm to 5pm and all day Saturday, December 7 from 9am to 5pm and from 9am to 2pm Sunday, December 8. Trees can be commercially bought, a tree in a pot or a branch in a bucket full of wet sand or a painted tree branch. Trees can be from recycled materials, welded, nailed or gluded! Lights can be added but are not necessary. You may choose to do a Nativity, wall hanging or poster. See you there!
BUNNINGS CHRISTMAS FAMILY EVENT
Thursday, December 5
From 5pm to 7pm at Bunnings Forbes there will be children’s craft activities, community groups selling wares, free bees for children of alla ges, a BBQ and see and have your photo taken with Santa. Book your spots today as spaces are limited.
BUILD FORBES TRADIES NIGHT
Friday, December 6
Forbes Shire Council invites everyone working or wanting to work in the building industry to their annual tradies night. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this event offers a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded tradespeople, expand your network, and gain valuable insights into the ever-evolving building and construction landscape. This is your chance to build valuable relationships, gain industry knowledge, and find out what’s shaping the future of construction in Forbes. Don’t miss out! Come along, discover new opportuni-
ties, and take your career and business to the next level. 6pm to 9pm at the Forbes Golf and Sportsman Hotel.
TRUNDLE CHRISTMAS MARKET
Friday, December 6
Trundle Christmas shopping night is coming up! From 3pm see all your favourite market stalls and get your Christmas goodies along the way at Trundle Hotel.
CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL
Friday, December 13
You don’t want to miss out on the best party of the year! Evolution Mining presents the Find it in Forbes Christmas carnival from 5pm to 9pm. There will be giant games, kids rides, face painting, market and food stalls.
CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT
Saturday, December 14
Enjoy Carols by Candlelight in Victoria Park this year. Before the carols begin at 8pm there will be activities and Santa will make an appearance at 7pm.
There will be talented local performers, food, drinks and glow candles on sale. Make sure to bring a chair or blanket to enjoy the night in comfort.
EUGOWRA CAROLS BY THE CREEK
Sunday, December 15
Carols by the creek is back again this year in Apex Park.
Come on down and enjoy a relaxing afternoon surrounded by community and Christmas carols.
TRUNDLE TESTICLE FESTIVAL
Thursday, December 26
It’s time to look after the blokes! It’s time for the Testicle Test as in cricket, as Trundle hosts a Testicle Festival and a Super 8s cricket competition on Boxing Day, December 26 at Berryman Oval. Grab a team for a bit of fun in the sun while they raise money for a really important cause, the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. Runs from 2pm until late and a barbecue and bar will be available.
EUGOWRA BOOTS AND BOWTIES BALL
Saturday, April 5
SAVE THE DATE: this is a fundraiser ball not to be missed presented by the Eugowra Public School P and C at the Eugowra Showground Pavilion.
The Forbes Advocate welcomes your thoughts and feedback on issues in the Forbes community. If you have a story lead or prepared article and photographs you’d like published contact the senior journalist Renee Powell on 0448 238 023.
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$11million to improve flood-damaged roads
SOME of Forbes’ ood-a ected roads will receive culvert and pavement upgrades as part of a $32 million ood resilience funding package.
Forbes Shire Council has been allocated more than $11 million of the $32 million Regional Transport Resilience Fund for the central west.
The shire’s share is:
• $5.43 million to upgrade four culverts and upgrade pavement at various locations across the council area.
• $4.4 million to upgrade ve culverts and pavement on Wirrinya Road.
• $1.6 million for: pavement upgrades on Henry Lawson Way; culvert replacement and pavement upgrades at various locations on Pinnacle Road; pavement upgrades at various locations on Waugan Road.
Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller said the funding would make a huge difference to roads across the shire that sustained serious damage in the 2022 oods, and she thanked the State and Federal governments for working together to make the funding available.
ience Fund is not just about repairing like for like,” she said.
“It will ensure vital infrastructure like bridges and roads are built back better able to withstand future disasters.”
cantly improve our infrastructure, reducing the costs of future repairs, improving safety, and ensuring stronger connectivity for our communities during and a er natural disasters,” Cr Beatty said.
“We are grateful that both levels of government have recognised the importance of betterment funding, enabling us to deliver stronger, more resilient infrastructure that will serve our communities for decades to come.”
Cabonne betterment projects include upgrades to causeways on critical roads such as Baghdad Road, Pinecli e Road, and Banjo Paterson Way, as well as the construction of more resilient concrete structures on Starrlea Road, Belubula Way, and Fish Fossil Drive.
Federal Member for Calare Andrew Gee and State Member for Orange Philip Donato have also welcomed the funding.
Mr Gee said communities continued to recover and rebuild two years on from the devastating oods the central west experienced.
“I am pleased to see that there is almost $8 million for the Cabonne Shire, which will fund badly needed repairs and also include bridge raising,” he said.
FORBES Shire Council has partnered with men’s mental health service Talk 2 Me Bro to host its first International Men’s Day event and lake walk at Lions Park on Friday November 29.
International Men’s Day aims to bring men together to recognise and raise awareness of the social and health issues men face.
This year’s theme is “Men’s Health Champions” which highlights building healthy communities, looking out for your mates, taking action to stay healthy and building a healthier future.
The 2024 event will include speeches from Forbes Shire Council Deputy Mayor, Chris Roylance, Brad McMillan from Talk 2 Me Bro, a BBQ breakfast, ice baths and a walk around Lake Forbes.
Cr Roylance said it was important for local men to come together to socialise and talk about the issues they face.
“In Australia 50 men per day under the age of 75 die from preventable causes,” he said.
“It will allow us to not only repair roads that were damaged by the oods but upgrade them to make them more resilient to oods in the future,” Mayor Miller said.
“This is very welcome news as the Forbes community continues to recover from the devastating oods two years on.”
NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said every $1 invested in betterment would save up to $10 in recovery in future.
“The Regional Transport Resil-
Cabonne Council has received nearly $7.5million, with $3.67m of that for a package of bridge works and $3.78m for concrete oodways, table drains, pipe culverts, headwalls, and concrete decks at 65 locations throughout the council area.
Mayor Kevin Beatty said the funding represented a substantial a much-needed investment in Cabonne’s future.
It’s the local share of $32million for road betterment in Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan shires following the destruction of the 2022 ood events.
“The RTRF program allows us to not only repair but also signi -
Cr Beatty emphasised the importance of collaboration with local communities, which played a key role in identifying priority projects through the Cabonne Recovery Plan.
One of the ongoing challenges in disaster recovery is securing funding for betterment works, which go beyond replacing damaged infrastructure with like-for-like repairs.
Cr Beatty acknowledged the support of the Federal and State Governments in addressing this issue.
“Too o en, disaster recovery funding only allows for replacement without improvement,” he said.
Equestrian centre to host championships
FORBES’ Multipupose
Equestrian Centre will host its rst event this weekend - the Australian Extreme Obstacle Racing Association Incorporated championships.
The two-day event will see competitors and their horses from juniors and green horses to experienced take on a whole range of obstacles and challenges in the arena.
The association has
been formed by Forbes’ own Jodi Fuge, who’s bringing the championships to the brand new arena on November 30 and December 1.
Spectators are welcome, with competition to commence at 9am each day.
Events will open with the green horse and junior divisions, and progress through to Open and Pro divisions later in the day.
Presentations for Round
1 will be in Ben Hall Shears at 7pm. It all begins again at 9am on Sunday.
The sport involves horse and rider navigating a series of obstacles, which could be anything from water boxes to bridges, gates, dragging objects and more.
Course designers have to set the course up to flow, and create a map as the tasks have to be com-
pleted in order.
There will be nine divisions of competition each day, with results of both days added to determine champions, and the results from the year’s shows totalled for the high points champion.
PICTURED RIGHT: Kay Markwort of Forbes on Danny - going through the curtains.
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
“This will help us deal with future storm and ood events.”
Mr Donato said the investment would help ensure communities could stay connected when disaster hits.
“Our communities are resilient, and this funding will go a long way to ensuring their road and transport infrastructure is too,” he said.
The road funding is part of the $100 million Central West Recovery and Resilience Package which includes the $40 million Resilient Homes Program, $2 million for the Resilient Homes Consultation Program, the $25 million Community Assets Program and $1 million for the Legal Aid Assistance Program.
“On average, men die seven years younger than women in Australia and three out of four suicides in Australia are men.
“Men’s health is everyone’s business, and we can all be men’s health champions by looking out for our mates, particularly when they’re doing it tough, and a group walk like the one planned is a great way of starting a conversation.”
The event will run from 7:30am – 10am, with the lake walk starting at 9am.
For more information please contact the Council Events team at community@forbes. nsw.gov.au or phone 6850 2300.
The Dog and Duck Crossing on Wirrinya Road closed with 700mm of water over it on October 28, 2022.
PHOTO: Supplied
Keen: Council receives 200 applications for traineeships
FORBES Shire Council has seen a surge of interest from job hunters in Forbes and surrounds, with more than 200 applications submitted for its 2025 traineeships recruitment campaign.
Almost 130 individuals applied for multiple positions across civil construction, irrigation, horticulture, agriculture, business support, community projects, surveying and drone operations, and sewer plant operations.
The marketing campaign included online and promotional material, as well as Forbes Shire Council’s HR sta travelling to high schools across the Central West to promote the traineeships and living and working in Forbes.
Forbes Shire Council used innovative online and digital interviewing tools for the preliminary applicant shortlisting process.
With the traineeships covering many sections of Forbes Shire Council, General Manager, Steve Loane OAM, said the campaign will give trainees the skills they need to start a career while ensuring skills are maintained in Council’s workforce.
“I have always been a huge advocate for trainees and apprentices in local government and this response from the jobs market has sent a clear message a er this campaign,” he said.
“We have had applications from school leavers right through to the more mature aged adults.”
Shortlisting is ongoing and successful applicants will commence in January 2025.
Forbes Shire Council is accessing more than $1 million in funding from the NSW O ce of Local Government Local Government Apprentice, Trainee and Cadet program for its 2025 traineeships.
Businesses in Forbes are gearing up for December and have some wonderful items in store.
There is hardware, power tools, clothing, toys, books, shoes and plants all available and found in Forbes.
Forbes Christmas Carnival will be held on December 13 from 5pm to 9pm.
“The shops are certainly decked out for Christmas and are already welcoming many Christmas shoppers through their doors. The Christmas Promotion is running so please remember to click on the QR Code with every purchase and ll in your details to go into the weekly draw,” Aaron Acheson said.
Work continues towards the Evolution Mining Find It In Forbes Christmas Carnival with festivities kicking o at 5pm on Friday, December 13.
The street closure will take place from 12 noon in Rankin, Templar and Battye Streets.
Please make sure that all vehicles are o the streets to allow for the rides to load into the area.
Market Stalls, rides, street games, art activities, face painting and lots more will see a very busy and fun area for the duration of the Carnival.
Food stalls and trucks will be on site to feed Forbes residents and visitors.
Thank you to our sponsors for their continued support.
Evolution Mining, Forbes Shire Council and Forbes Business Chamber Inc.
Other major sponsors are: Forbes Advocate, Bernardis Marketplace, Terry Bros Carpet Court, Club Forbes, Acheson’s Mitre 10, Flannery’s Pharmacy and BlueSky Outdoors Forbes.
Participating businesses have once again o ered tremendous support for the Find It In AMAZING Forbes This Christmas.
The businesses Acheson’s
Mitre 10, Allure On Main, Bernardis, Blue Sky Outdoors, Blush Organic Beauty, BWR Accountants, Cahills Footwear Forbes, Chapter Two Boutique, Club Forbes, Euphoria Road, Flannery’s Pharmacy, Forbes Business Chamber Inc., Forbes Central Butchery, Forbes Shire Council, Graces Hair Studio, Gunns Menswear and Embroidery, Jessica’s Beauty, Life Pharmacy, Little Extras Lifestyle, Loomzys FishNFix, News On Rankin, MD Steel, Rise Physiotherapy, Robbs Jewellers, Steel Technology, Terry Bros Carpet Court, The Bakehouse, The Book Dispensary, Turners Furniture One, Undercover Sleepwear and Lingerie, Walkers AgNVet and Woolerina.
Supporting businesses are Michael Robinson and Real Estate, Forbes Livestock and Agency Co, Agriwest, Central West Diesel, and McMillian Industries.
Jordan Wilson, Darren Phillips, Mylessa Ryan and Lisa Staines welcome you at Turner’s Furniture One in their new location.
ABOVE: Forbes Shire
Parents’ phone-free pledge
THE pressure to have a smartphone is real – and that pressure is coming on our families with children at a younger and younger age.
Now two Forbes mums are starting the Forbes Phone Free Alliance so families can support each other in saying no – and in ensuring their kids still have a creative, play-based childhood.
They’re willing to sign a public pledge that they will hold off giving their kids smartphones until the end of at least Year 8 and welcoming other parents to join them.
Cherie Stitt and Wendy Baker have long been mindful of their own phone use, and their children are reaching ages where they’re becoming aware of the expectations kids have about access to technology.
They’re feeling the pressure.
But the sisters have realised they don’t have to give into it – and they want other parents and young people to know they don’t have to either.
As a high school teacher, Wendy particularly has observed the rising number of young people with phones from Year 7 or even younger and the increasing attachment to them.
Cherie and Wendy both understand the motivation for parents to feel their children can contact them – to alert them that training’s cancelled and they need picking up, just as one example.
But they’re more concerned about the harm children are vulnerable to through their phones.
Reading Jonathon Haidt’s The Anxious Generation, which looks at the plunge in adolescent mental health in the early 2010s, crystallised their concerns.
They heard about America’s “Wait until 8th” and then found the Australian Heads Up Alliance.
They’re launching a Forbes alliance under that national banner and they would love to share the resources and information with more local families.
As Wendy and Cherie have raised the topic with other parents, they’ve found they’re not alone in
Wendy Baker and Cherie Stitt are launching the Forbes Phone Free Alliance to create a support network and provide resources for families.
their concerns, or in their reluctance to hand their child a smart phone with all it can do.
“Everyone has been really supportive of the idea, I don’t think anyone feels great about giving their 12-year-old a phone,” Wendy said.
“We brought it up at a school P and F meeting and that’s where we really committed,” Cherie said.
“We got an amazing response from parents with older kids, who have already given their kids devices.”
But Wendy and Cherie don’t just want to withhold phones, they want to provide families with resources and to provide spaces for connections.
“We don’t want our kids to miss out on social lives, so we’re saying it’s up to us to continue a social life for our kids that’s phone free,” Cherie said.
“We’re not giving the power over to the phone, we’ll have to keep parenting.”
The more children in their age group who don’t have a phone, the more they’ll be driven to find ways to continue to connect.
“We’re big on getting that support for us, for our kids,” Cherie said.
They know it won’t be easy, especially where kids have already had
a lot of access to devices or even already had a smartphone.
“We’ve got to support each other,” Wendy said.
Wendy, who has just completed her Masters in Child Play Therapy, points out the ‘opportunity cost’ of screens and how they are interfering with richer childhood experiences.
“Play is essential in childhood for healthy social and emotional development,” she said.
“Phones are like a blocker to that experience.
“Every minute they spend scrolling, is a minute they’re not spending doing something else… they are not playing outside, they’re not making up a game, they’re not drawing or reading or chatting to their friends and family. And that’s what kids really need.”
The Phone Free Alliance wants to shift our local culture away from the expectation that kids will have smart phones.
“We’re getting back to a creative, play-based childhood with real life connections,” Cherie said.
The Heads Up Alliance presented to the 2024 Parliamentary Committee on Social Media earlier this year, and Danny Elachi painted a sobering picture of the impact of increasing technology use.
“We know that social media is distracting our children, addicting them, depressing them, exhausting them, inducing anxiety in them, isolating them, crushing their self-esteem, serving them x-rated content, facilitating predation, scandalising them, radicalising them, bullying them, sleep-depriving them, preying on their specific vulnerabilities, driving them to self-harm and in some cases even to suicide,” he said.
“Let’s lift the minimum social media age, back it up by the force of law, put the onus back on the social media companies to ensure compliance.”
The organisation’s submission to the committee stated parents couldn’t wait years for the perfect solution to materialize.
“Even if such a law were entirely unenforceable, it would still be worth having on the books,” he said of the social media ban to be considered by parliament.
“It would send an unmistakeable signal to parents and children: social media for tweens and young teens is hazardous.
“It would represent a new norm, a paradigm shift, and may be all the ammunition a parent needs to win this battle: “sorry Pete, don’t look at me, Albo called it, it’s against the law”.
“We can then work in real time to improve our enforcement mechanisms and address valid privacy concerns.”
Wendy and Cherie are ready to act, and to provide support for other families to do the same.
“We want to be clear it’s no judgement,” Wendy said.
“I don’t blame parents for giving their kids smartphones, I don’t blame kids for being addicted to them.
“But the tech companies aren’t going to do anything about it so we have to look after each other.”
FIND OUT MORE
For more information and to make the pledge, email forbesphonefreealliance@gmail.com (this is a social media free initiative!)
International Mens Day Forbes Shire Council, in partnership with Talk2MeBro wishes to invite the community to the International Men’s Day event on Friday 29 November from 7:30am-10:00am at Lions Park.
Join us for a free BBQ, information stalls and a lake walk to honour the contribution of men to their families and our community.
Any service providers wishing to participate in this event, please contact Council’s Events Team. For more information please contact Council’s Events Team on community@forbes.nsw.gov.au or 02 6850 2300.
Build Forbes – Tradies Night – 6 December 2024
Join us for the Build Forbes – TRADIES NIGHT, a networking event for local and regional tradies and industry professionals. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this event offers a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded tradespeople, expand your network, and gain valuable insights into the ever-evolving building and construction landscape of Forbes.
0Tickets are free and must be secured by Tuesday 3 December via 123 TIX. 6pm
Social media age ban ‘as
soon as possible’:
PM
By AAP
POPULAR social media platforms
Tiktok, Snapchat and Instagram are among the sites that will have to ban children younger than 16, with reforms likely to pass parliament by the end of the fortnight.
Federal Communications Minister Michelle Rowland introduced world-first legislation to the House of Representatives last Thursday, saying it would make the online environment safer for young people.
TikTok, Facebook, Snapchat, Reddit, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) will have to impose age limitations on users.
But Messenger Kids, WhatsApp, Kids Helpline, Google Classroom and YouTube are expected to be classified as “out-of-scope services”.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government wanted this “action to happen as soon as possible”.
Opposition communications spokesman David Coleman said the social media companies had “abrogated their responsibility to care about Australian children” for too long.
“We look forward to working constructively on this legislation with a view to seeing it passed through the parliament next week,” he said.
The office of the eSafety Commissioner said age assurance was important but had to be part of a broader approach.
“We must also continue working to ensure online services are safe by design and to build children’s digital literacy, resilience and critical reasoning skills so that when they are of age to use these services ... they are equipped for the online world,” it said.
There will be a minimum lead-in period of 12 months before the ban is activated.
Age verification trials are underway to determine how the ban will be enforced.
The Forbes Shire Community Strategic Plan Consultation is now live! The Survey requests feedback from the community about their wants, needs and aspirations for the Forbes Shire over the next 10 years! This survey can be completed by visiting the Forbes Shire Council administration office, at the Forbes Council website or by contacting community@forbes.nsw.gov.au. This survey closes on 31 January 2025.
For more information please contact Council’s Community and Tourism Team on community@forbes.nsw.gov.au or 02 6850 2300.
Letters to Santa Santa’s Magical Mailbox has arrived at Forbes Shire Council Offices. Last letters to be posted by Monday 16th December.
on the Forbes Shire Council Tradies Directory. This directory is a reference point for all small- and large-scale developers to make direct contact with your business.
If your business is not yet included please submit your listing via the LIVE FORBES website https://liveforbes.com.au/live/directory/ or email your business details to business@forbes.nsw.gov.au
Notice is hereby given that Council has resolved to suspend the Alcohol-Free Zone in Templar
between Lachlan Street and Rankin Street from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Friday, 13 December 2024 for the purpose of the 2024 Forbes Christmas Carnival event.
or 02 6850 2300
EOI: Australia Day Vendors and Performers Expressions of Interest for Food Vendors and Buskers
Taking a stand on White Ribbon Day
Commitment to change
■ From front page
Barry Merritt led all men and boys in reciting the pledge, calling them to come forward and speak it together:
The White Ribbon Day pledge is:
“I will stand up up, speak out, and act to prevent men’s violence against women. This is our oath.”
Many community members who walked in the march carried a memorial card for a woman who has lost her life in domestic violence, standing for her.
These were added to a memorial in the park in a moving service, before the community observed a time of silence.
The White Ribbon organisation has been talking with men and boys from all ages and stages of life and all different types of communities.
Ms Dickie said there were actions everyone could take to make change: Attend events and rallies, showing your community and your mates that you care, that you’re here to listen and you’re here to help; When you’re listening, listen without judgement if someone reaches out, whether women or men; Become educated about the signs of domestic violence and how to respond appropriately; Speak out when you see something happening: if you see someone who makes a sexist joke say “it’s not funny. It’s not on.”; Support our local servic-
es, promote them, donating money and time to them;
Be a role model that demonstrates to everyone what appropriate behaviour is.
“They’re all really easy things that every single one of you can do,” Ms Dickie said.
Stevie Darcy from the Forbes Family and Domestic Violence Committee acknowledged the impact of family violence on individuals, families and our community, and the strength and resilience of the children and adults who have and are still experiencing family violence.
She urged everyone to become aware of the services available in our community, who were present on Monday.
Forbes Family and Domestic Violence committee were there ready to o er support.
Other services available to our community include:
Catholic Care Wilcannia Forbes: provides a broad range of services across homelessness and domestic violence, mental health, families and relationships, parent and children and nancial counselling.
Their “staying home leaving violence program” o ers support to women who wish to stay in their home - or a home of their choosing - while leaving domestic violence.
Catholic Care’s men’s behaviour change program supports men who cause harm to change their behaviours that stem from the deeply entrenched attitudes and beliefs that trigger domestic and family violence.
The program includes an eligibility and suitability assessment; group program over 20 consecutive weeks; individual support with referral to other services and ex/ partner support.
Forbes Health Service
NSW Health provides primary and community health services, including social worker and Aboriginal health worker, aiming to support all members of our community through prevention and response to violence and neglect.
Binaal Billa Family Violence Prevention Legal Service addresses legal concerns and facilitates wrap around support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander victims, survivors or family and domestic and sexual assault.
Yoorana Gunya Family Healing Centre provides medical services, mental health supports, allied health services and community supports. Yoorana Gunya means loving home in Wiradjuri.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, family or domestic violence and there is immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero/000.
In addition to local services, for con dential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800 RESPECT or 13 YARN on 13 92 76. Call the NSW Domestic Violence Line for free counselling and referral services on 1800 656 463 or Link2Home for homelessness support on 1800 152 152.
Cr Steve Karaitiana and community members marching, carrying the names of those who have lost their lives.
RIGHT: Police and motorcyclists led Forbes’ 2024 White Ribbon march.
Red Bend Catholic College 2025 captains Ruby Arnott and Lachlan Kupkee with principal Stephen Dwyer.
There must have been 1000 people in the march, through Forbes across Bates Bridge and into Lions Park.
Jamal Gorman-Barnes from Forbes High and Mykel Coe from Red Bend o ered the acknowledgement of Wiradjuri country.
Cr Aidan Clarke and Chloe Clarke with Barry Merritt.
and Renae Spackman from Catholic Care Wilcannia Forbes.
Wanita Smith, Louise Allen, Jodie Ledbrook and Jodie Dukes from Forbes Learning Ladder and Community OOSHC.
Donna Bliss and the team from Binaal Billa Family Violence Prevention Legal Service.
HUNDREDS of young people, including the entire Red Bend Catholic College community, marched down Forbes’ main street on Monday to say ‘no more’ to men’s violence against women.
Local support services were represented at the park, o ering connections for the community.
Don’t let a brother fight alone
It’s a year since Talk2Me Bro established in Forbes, and they invite community to their catch-ups
The vision is an Australia with no suicide.
It’s a big vision, but it’s one that a group of Forbes volunteers are absolutely passionate about working towards - one connection at a time.
Gabe and Brad McMillan have brought Talk2Me Bro to Forbes and are coordinating free regular catch-ups for men and for women through the organisation.
You might have seen their social media ads extending an invitation to free community catch-ups - the ice bath pictures might have caught your eye.
It’s now 12 months since the rst community event the registered charity hosted in Forbes and more than 200 people have joined them over the months since.
Talk2Me Bro, the organisation, was born out of loss and it exists to end male suicide.
The McMillans and their crew are determined to extend support to our community.
They see the pressure that’s being put on young males –and females – to have it all together all the time and they want to create a safe space where people can look a er themselves and each other.
“We just thought enough was enough,” Gabe said.
“There was a real identication of the lack of support networks – we’re not really saying psychologists but actually people on the ground, ready to support people, and to give them a very safe space to be vulnerable.
“We started to look at what sort of support could be available and Talk2Me Bro really spoke to us.”
The catch-ups are that space.
There are dedicated monthly catch ups for men and for women, as well as four community catch ups (where both men and women are welcome) a year.
They’re a place where there’s space to breathe, to look a er yourself, away from other pressures. One of the rst things you might notice is there are no participants on their phone.
It’s a place where people are willing to listen, where they’re learning to have courageous conversations that could save lives.
Because Talk2Me Bro is all about breaking down the stigma around mental health and suicide.
“Brothers don’t let brothers ght alone” is their mandate and one you’ll increasingly see on t-shirts and jumpers around Forbes.
So what happens at the catch ups?
The catch ups are free, they’re open to the community, and they involve breath work and ice baths, as well as a cuppa and a yarn.
It’s important to know you choose how much you take part in.
“For 20 minutes or so we’re going to ask you to lay down, sit with yourself, and lean into how you’re feeling,” Gabe said.
“And go through all di erent breath practices which will give you the opportunity to open up your diaphragm and your space.
“To actually feel how you’re
to process things that could be in your body and in your mind and that will allow you to release emotions. And those emotions need to come out in order for you to put more good stu in.”
Talk2Me Bro are there to create the safe space for that to take place, Gabe said.
Once you’ve taken time for yourself, you can hold a safe space for someone else, Gabe said.
Next there is time to sit up and ask the person next to you how they are, how their experience was.
Ice baths might be something that’s new and the thought of doing them in winter sounds even more
Breath work and ice baths are two of the components of free community catch-ups with
and they encourage people to come along and see what it’s all about - just start with a yarn.
CONNECT
your breath to do something uncomfortable – to show you that you can do that,” Gabe said. “It enhances your mental resilience.
“When we’re standing around the ice baths, we might be having a co ee, we’re yarning, we’re learning, we’re talking, literally o ering a space for people to come together to connect, to be open, to be honest and to be safe – and to talk.”
Talk2Me Bro has self care and self development guides for participants to give people more tools to navigate life.
“It’s really important to calm your mind and to give
Talk2MeBro hosts a women’s catch up on the second Sunday of every month and a men’s catch up on the fourth Sunday.
They can be at the ski dam or at the Boys to the Bush venue, depending on weather, and community members are welcome.
It’s just asked that younger teens / children come along with an adult.
The best way to keep in touch is through Instagram and facebook – they’re online under Talk2MeBro_centralwestnsw
They’ll always post the details ahead of their catch ups on their social media chan-
Shire Council and Northparkes to continue to support the central west.
FOR IMMEDIATE SUPPORT
If you or someone you know needs immediate support there are services that do offer crisis support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If there is immediate risk of harm call 000.
Talk2MeBro has received sponsorship from Forbes
Lifeline provides free, 24hour telephone crisis support service: call 13 11 14. The Suicide Call Back Service is a 24 hour, nationwide service that provides free telephone, video and online counselling, call 1300 65 94 67. Kids Helpline is a free Australian telephone and online counselling service for young people aged between 5 and 25, call 1800 55 1800.
Chance to learn more about solar plan for Daroobalgie
There are plans for a new solar power plant with battery storage on a 354 hectare site at Daroobalgie.
ACE Power and Osaka Gas are pursuing development approval for a 147MW solar farm and 120MW four-hour battery storage at the property o Hoopers Road, 10km north of Forbes.
The project team is developing the environmental impact statement (EIS) and had representatives in Forbes last week for community consultation.
The $350 million program is considered a State Signicant Development, and the EIS will go on public exhibition for the community to review.
Development manager Andrew Johnson said that would be expected about March next year.
The next step is the company will review submissions and produce a Response to Submissions report.
The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure will then consider the project and make a determination.
The development is part of
the big picture of reducing the State’s emissions, producing enough electricity to power 42,000 average homes and o setting some 182,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide a year.
The Hoopers Road site has been identi ed for its access to the electricity grid - the 132kV high voltage line - current land use and environmental impacts.
It will include an onsite substation to connect to the transmission line, up to two transformers, inverters and a switchyard.
Some 120 jobs would be created during the 18-month construction phase, with about three full time operational roles in the long-term.
Developers do have to include a detailed tra c assessment in the EIS: they
anticipate light vehicles travelling to and from the site in morning and a ernoon peaks, with heavy vehicle deliveries throughout the day.
It’s expected the solar plant would have an operational life of about 30 years, and a decommissioning plan must be included with the development application.
The team at ACE Power said they will always look for
ways to invest in the community to help support local initiatives and improvements. They would love to hear ideas on how to share project bene ts locally, so if you have any suggestions on initiatives or programs that would support the local community, please reach out.
If you have any questions about the project, please send an email to the project
team at engage@nghengage. com.au or visit the Project website at https://www. forbessolarfarm.com.au/ ACE Power develops renewable projects including 17 wind farms, seven solar farms, and seven battery energy storage systems. Osaka Gas Australia has energy infrastructure, renewables and decarbonisation assets in Australia.
The site is o Hoopers Road.
Talk2Me Bro,
PHOTOS: Talk2MeBro Central West
ACE Power and Osaka Gas are pursuing development approval for a 147MW solar farm and 120MW four-hour battery storage at Daroobalgie. PHOTOS: Supplied
Support Sunshine Club with Christmas bingo
HI to all our Sunshine Club members.
Our next meeting is on Friday, December 6 at 10am at our op shop in Templar Street Forbes.
Our Christmas bingo night is on Wednesday, December 11 with the first game being called at 7pm.
We have:
Six $38 hams;
Six $30 gift cards from Bunnings kindly donated - thank you; and Eight random prizes;
30 pick-a-box prizes;
10 small light fruitcakes kindly donated by Bernardi’s - thank you; and two $30 special hands.
Our bingo night is being held in the auditorium at Club Forbes.
Our Christmas stocking will be drawn on the night.
We also have a fruit and veg raffle being drawn on the night.
Please come along and support the Royal Far West, thank you.
A shout out to harry and his team from Carpet Court for the repairs made to our carpet at our op shop.
A big thank you as it was very much appreciated.
We will be closing for our Christmas break on December 19 at 3.30pm.
We are accepting donations in clean and good condition.
We would appreciate if they were dropped off during our opening hours of 9am to 3.30pm Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
Our Summer sale on our ladies wear is still on so please come in for a browse.
Our birthday book is open on November 28 with Bruce Almighty’s Lily, Bruce Almighty’s Clare, Speedy’s Mrs, Gangster, Marko’s Kay’s Justin, Bruce Almighty’s Doug, Marko Wayne’s Eli, Marko’s Danny’s Zoe, Wild Red Berry.
Hope everyone has a great day.
‘Til next time, stay safe, Reenie
Hospital auxiliary welcomes monitors
By VICKI KNIGHT
OUR members had a delightful and joyous time at the Eugowra MPS for their Halloween luncheon on October 31.
The lounge and dining room was eerily decorated, transforming the area into a Spooktacular experience!
To keep company with the residents, staff and fellow Auxiliary members for both morning tea and lunch, was very enjoyable.
The highlight of the day was an assortment of three different types of pizza and garlic bread.
The residents genuinely appreciated our presence as much as we enjoyed theirs!
Our President Bev Slaven thanked Kylie and all the staff and residents for the wonderful day and presented Kylie with the four Invisa-Beam MultiPurpose monitors that were purchased with funds raised, by our two stalls a year held in Eugowra.
These beams provide an immense safety adjunct to the staff and residents of the MPS.
They are an early warning device using laser beam technology to give positive detection,
for falls prevention. The beams detect movement, and this is instantly seen by the staff who can then make sure the resident is safe.
Our street stall and raffles were a tremendous success.
Bev gave a huge special thank you to all the members who kindly donated home cooking and plants for the stall and said our foodies raffle was well and truly beyond expectation and that we have always filled one basket, but to have two was great.
She gave special thanks to Irene, Doreen and Andy for the
writing of the tickets, Vicki and Daph for the sale of plants, Mavis, Jeannette and herself, for the cooking sales.
The Eugowra Hospital Auxiliary would like to thank the people of Eugowra and the visitors to our stall for their unwavering support, year after year.
Without the support of our town, we would not be able to purchase items to make the lives of our MPS residents more comfortable and safer.
Many thanks to Danny, Amanda, the Craft Shop, Ron and Judd for your continuing support with your venues.
PHOTO: Supplied
Increasing on-farm biodiversity
By MARG APPLEBEE CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE
CENTRAL West Lachlan
Landcare welcomed Josh Frappell and Kate Nixon to deliver two workshops in Parkes and Forbes on Octo ber 3 and 4.
These two workshops with the theme of increasing onfarm biodiversity, were part of a series of workshops across the Central West.
These events are possible thanks to the shared work of the NSW Biodiversity Conser vation Trust (BCT) and Land care NSW under the Private Land Conservation Matters project.
firm, focused on ecosystem
Their passion is landscape rehabilitation, regenerative agriculture, soil health and environmental stewardship which they implement through various regenerative
Kate Nixon gave a local perspective on landscape management and transforming your outdoor spaces.
Protecting biodiversity on private lands also plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance, improving land productivity, and all of which directly benefit both the landowners and the broader community.
Private Land Conservation Matters (PLCM) is Stage 2 of Landcare NSW’s partnership program with the BCT, building on the success and lessons learned from the
increased awareness of the BCT’s roles and responsibilities amongst the Landcare community.
Josh Frappel spoke on ways to increase biodiversity, whilst also improving soil health and profitability.
Josh runs The Regenera-
erosion control, river and creek restoration, landscape and farm planning, regenerative agriculture, carbon farming, weed and pest management and biodiversity offset management.
The Regenerative is an environmental consultancy
Importantly, one concept works in with the other to increase biodiversity and to make our spaces wonderful places to live and work.
A local, Kate has recently started her own business
Macrocarpa Landscapes, and shared her knowledge and insights into designing sustainable gardens using native plants that can be used and enjoyed by the whole family.
We will also be joined by a representative from our partner, the Biodiversity Conservation Trust (BCT). At the Parkes workshop, we had the opportunity to look at plantings that had been undertaken in stages to form corridors working in and around stock, which can sometimes provide a challenge when undertaking planting projects. In Forbes we were fortunate to look at a different type of landscape, heading to Duncan’s Retreat after a stormy morning. It was good to be able inspect the work that one person can do over many years on their own property.
For further information on this article, please go to www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org
Shorn trade lambs $17 dearer at Forbes sales this week
MONDAY’S CATTLE SALE
Yarding 1428 (up 382)
Numbers lifted by 382 for a yarding of 1428 cattle.
Quality was good with heavy prime grown cattle and cows well supplied, along with the regular supply of feeder weights.
Most of the regular buyers were present.
Prime yearling steers sold dearer ranging from 304c to 343c, while prime yearling heifers were up to 15c cheaper, 255c to 332c/kg.
Feeder steers held firm, 300c to 358c, and feeder heifers were down 6c, 260c to 314c/kg.
Prime grown steers eased 5c, 255c to 347c, and heavy prime grown heifers dropped 15c, 255c to 328c/kg.
Cows held firm, 2 and 3 scores sold from 199c to
268c, and heavy prime cows, 266c to 285c/kg.
Heavy bulls sold sold to 307c/kg.
TUESDAY’S SHEEP SALE
Yarding 24,050 (up 4100)
There was a lift in lambs numbers but only 3000 new season lambs were penned.
There was an influx of shorn lambs, mostly heavy trade and heavy weights.
There weren’t many Merino lambs or new season lambs that were fresh but there were a few pens of heavy trade in very good condition.
There was a good mix of weights with plenty of trade and heavy weights and again extra heavy lambs were limited.
The market sold to a stronger trend.
New season trade
to 895c/kg.
weights reached $214/head and heavy weights $244/ head and most range from 780c to 840c with the neat -
est lambs out to 880c/kg. Shorn trade lambs were $17 dearer selling from $166 to $218/head
and averaged 850c/kg.
The heavy weights averaged $8 to $14 stronger and ranged from $200 to $285/
head or 860c to 895c/kg.
Lambs over 30kg sold from $263 to $297/head and were Dorper lambs that topped the sale.
Merino hoggets lifted $8 to $10 selling from $125 to $178/ head or 650c/kg on average.
Mutton numbers lifted and demand was strong with prices lifting $10 on medium weights and $15 to $20 on heavy mutton.
Medium weight ewes sold from $73 to $105 and heavy crossbred ewes $125 to $167/ head.
Heavy merino ewes reached $168 and wethers $170/head.
Most ranged between 400c and 450c/kg.
FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVESTOCK REPORTING AGENCY
Shorn trade lambs were $17 dearer selling from $166 to $218/head and averaged 850c/kg. The heavy weights averaged $8 to
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Caulfield Spring Finale, Festival Stakes Day and Country Finals 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: We Bought A Zoo. (2011) Matt Damon. 10.05 MOVIE: The King’s Man. (2021) 12.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. 12.00 Drive Safe. New. 12.30 Our State On A Plate. 1.00 My Way. 1.30 GolfBarons. 2.00 Golf. Australian Open. Third round. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: Christmas On The Farm. (2021) Poppy Montgomery. 9.20 MOVIE: Miss Congeniality 2: Armed And Fabulous. (2005) Sandra Bullock, Regina King. 11.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 Buy To Build. Final. 1.00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 1.30 The Yes Experiment. 2.00 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures. 3.00 Planet Shapers. 3.30 My Market Kitchen. 4.00 All 4 Adventure. Return. 5.00 10 News First. 6.30 Bondi
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Escape To The Country. 1.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 2.00 I Escaped To The Country. 3.00 Escape To The Country. 5.00 Horse Racing. Caulfield Spring Finale, Festival Stakes Day and Country Finals Raceday. 6.00 Horse Racing. Winterbottom Stakes Day. 9.00 Escape To The Country. 11.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 12.00 Late Programs.
Long Lost Family. Final. 4.00 Restoration Australia. 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. 6.00 Grand Designs Australia. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Muster Dogs: Where Are They Now? New. 8.00 Miniseries: Douglas Is Cancelled. New.
The Surgery Ship. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 The Highland Vet. 4.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Rosemary & Thyme. 8.30 McDonald And Dodds. 10.30 Great Scenic Railway Journeys. 11.15 The
(June
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Boating. Circuit Boats Drivers C’ship. Windsor Spectacular. Replay. 4.00 Desert Collectors. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Grand Final. North Melbourne v Brisbane. 9.30 AFL Women’s Grand Final Post-Game. 10.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Kitty Is Not A Cat. 9.00 Get Clever. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Jabba’s Movies. 11.00 Bringing Sexy Back. 12.35 Australia’s Cheapest Weddings. 1.35 Aust Got Talent. 2.50 Blow Up. 4.25 Declassified: The Royal Scandals. 5.25 MOVIE: Storm Boy. (2019) 7.30 MOVIE: Little Women. (2019) 10.15 MOVIE: Tully. (2018) 12.20 Late Programs.
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6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Helping Hands. 10.30 My Favorite Martian. 11.00 MOVIE: Contraband Spain. (1955) 12.45 MOVIE: Follow That Dream. (1962) 3.00 MOVIE: Beachhead. (1954) 5.00 Golf. Australian Open. Third round. 7.00 MOVIE: Spartacus. (1960) 10.50 MOVIE: The Return Of A Man Called Horse. (1976) 1.20 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Pooches At Play. 12.30 Cook With Luke. 1.00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield. 1.30 Good Chef Bad Chef. 2.00 Farm To Fork. 2.30 Basketball. NBL. Melbourne United v Sydney Kings. 4.30 Luxury Escapes.
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pride!
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) An old health problem recurs, but quick attention soon puts everything right. Meanwhile, plans for the upcoming holidays might need to be changed. Stay flexible!
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A project you started earlier this
Your cans making a difference
FORBES PUBLIC SCHOOL RAISES MORE THAN $900 FOR LITTLE WINGS
Forbes Public School has raised more than $900 for Little Wings just by recycling drink containers through Return and Earn.
From November 2023 to November 2024, students at Forbes Public School recycled an impressive 9063 containers raising a total of $906.30 to support the Little Wings charity , which provides vital services to children and families in need.
Little Wings has been the Return and Earn donation partner for the past six months, up to October 20, and donations totalled nearly $200,00.
Clare Pearson, CEO of children’s charity Little Wings, said Return and Earn had grown to become an important part of the Little Wings service - helping them fuel planes and make a difference in the lives of seriously ill children and their families.
“The money raised in this campaign will have an important impact on the lives of hundreds of children by giving them access to life-saving treatments in major city hospitals,” Ms Pearson said.
“We are so grateful for the support and belief in the Little Wings mission by Return and Earn and recyclers in communities across NSW.
“I would like to congratulate Little Wings for its fundraising efforts, including setting up partnerships with schools and businesses who collect containers and donate the refunds to charity.”
Forbes Public School dedicated themselves to the task of raising funds for Little Wings after the charity helped a school family.
By participating in this program Forbes Public School has not only contributed to reducing waste but has also demonstrated its commitment to environmental stewardship.
“We are thrilled to see such enthusiastic participation from our students in the recycling program,” Forbes Public School principal Mrs Amber Avis said.
“This initiative not only teaches our students about the importance of recycling and sustainability but also allows them to make a positive impact on our community.”
Throughout the year students participated in various activities designed to promote recycling awareness.
Return and Earn has become a key fundraising channel for many charities and community groups across NSW.
Since the scheme launched in 2017, more than $62 million has been raised through donations and fees from hosting return points.
Now they’ve launched a six-month appeal to raise funds for food relief organisation Foodbank NSW and ACT - who have made a delivery to Forbes just this month.
The six-month recycling appeal was launched this week at a Return and Earn machine in Eastern Creek,
alongside John Robertson, CEO of Foodbank NSW and ACT, Danielle Smalley, CEO of Exchange for Change, scheme coordinator for Return and Earn and Michelle Mandl, General Manager, Communications, Customer & Engagement at TOMRA Cleanaway, network operator for Return and Earn.
Foodbank NSW & ACT provides much needed food assistance to individuals and families across NSW and the ACT.
“At Foodbank, we believe everyone should have access to the food they need, and we are here for everyday Australians who are going without.
“We currently provide more than 26 million meals each year for those in urgent need,” Mr Robertson said.
This year’s Foodbank Hunger Report reveals food insecurity in Australia has reached a critical point, with one in three NSW households facing hunger.
This equates to one million households facing food-insecurity in NSW alone, with 75 per cent of households saying cost of living is the primary cause.
“Food insecurity doesn’t discriminate, it can affect any of us at any time, and its continuing to impact people that have never been impacted before. Our crucial mission is to make food available to those who need it most, but we can’t do it without the support of our communities
said.
From now until April 21, 2025, every eligible bottle and can donated to the Foodbank NSW and ACT appeal at a Return and Earn machine or on the Return and Earn app at participating return points, will raise 10c toward the $250,000 goal to support their important work.
“The Foodbank appeal is an easy way for the NSW
Landholders urged to review updated water sharing plan
Landholders in the Lachlan Valley are being urged to review the draft water sharing plan for the Lachlan unregulated river, with the deadline for comment extended to the new year and extra information on new areas identified as wetlands.
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment has released the draft of the 10-yearly review of the plan, which sets out the rules for water sharing among water users and the environment across the region.
This is for unregulated river water sources such as the Mandagery Creek, Lake Forbes and Back Yamma Creek, Goobang and Billabong creeks along with other waterways outside the Lachlan regulated river system.
The timing of the plan’s release had frustrated Lachlan Valley Water chair Tom Green, with the original deadline before Christmas leaving farmers under pressure to review the plan in the midst of the busy harvest season.
Mr Green said Lachlan Valley Water had been asking about the plans for Lachlan
unregulated as well as the Belubula for about nine months now.
“How do they expect this to be done when there’s been no prior consultation,” Mr Green said.
“There can be detail in there that you miss and the lines in the sand get moved forever.”
Landholders and other stakeholders have now been given until January 10 to give feedback on the plan and further time on one of the key areas of interest: the identification of 291 additional prescribed wetlands in the area.
Maps of these are available under supporting documents on the website.
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water said they had added an extra submission period for comments on rules for prescribed wetlands, until 11.59pm on Sunday 2 February 22, 2025, after listening to community feedback.
For more information on the wetlands, they encourage the community to register for a webinar on Monday, December 9 from 12.30-1.30pm.
The session will outline the new rules, how they may impact landholders, and the method used to identify prescribed wetlands within a plan area.
Lachlan Valley Water is asking for “ground truthing” of these wetlands, which are marked in yellow on maps released by the department with the draft plan.
Existing prescribed wetlands are marked in pink on the map.
“It’s fine if there are wetlands but you’ve actually got to check that they are, and what they are, instead of just using a mapping tool,” Mr Green said.
The department is also hosting a webinar on the draft plan from 2pm on November 28 where the community can learn more, ask questions and provide feedback.
Giselle Howard, NSW Executive Director of the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, says water sharing plans are vital tools for managing our state’s water resources.
“We want to hear your feed-
life-changing organisation to feed families in need.
“Donating just five bottles or cans helps fund one meal, so I encourage everyone to get behind this cause and help us reach our target of $250,000,” said Ms Smalley.
The new Foodbank appeal builds on Return and Earn’s continued success in raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for families in need.
and Earn and to the people of NSW for supporting the Foodbank appeal this summer and our mission to end hunger,” Mr. Roberston said. Return and Earn is a partnership between the NSW Government, scheme coordinator Exchange for Change and network operator TOMRA Cleanaway. For more information visit www.returnandearn.org.au
Equestrian Centre a win for the community: Council
By FORBES MAYOR PHYLLIS MILLER OAM
back on the draft plan now so we can continue to manage the region’s water fairly and sustainably over the next 10 years,” Ms Howard said.
“We want a plan that works well for the Lachlan region, which means continuing to protect basic landholder rights, cultural needs and water for the environment, as well as setting limits on how much water can be taken to help ensure our rivers, aquifers and waterways remain healthy and resilient for the next generations.”
FIND OUT MORE
Face-to-face drop-in sessions will be held in Cowra on December 4 and Crookwell on December 3 between 10am and 12pm.
One-on-one calls can be booked until December 13: please email wspconsultation@dpie.nsw.gov.au and specify your plan area in your response.
To view the plan, to register for a session and to make a submission, you can go online to the website: https:// water.nsw.gov.au/lachlan-water-sharing-plan
There was a soft launch at the Forbes Multipurpose Equestrian Centre (MEC) with representatives from the many horse user groups, local contractors and enthusiasts.
The MEC is a grand facility, measuring 80m x 60m, located between the showground and the racecourse and is the first step in what we hope to develop as an amazing horse precinct in future years.
There has been so much interest in this specular facility, it has already been booked for its first event this weekend. We are all looking forward to continuing to develop and attract funds to make this facility even more amazing.
The MEC was completed on time and on budget by the Forbes Shire Council with funding from the NSW Government Office of Sport Multi Sport Community Facility Fund.
What a win for the community, it’s not every day a town our size can build, with local contractors, a facility this size which will be able to house many horse and outdoor events under cover.
Forbes will be hosting our first ever International Men’s Day event on Friday. Starting at 7am at Lions Park the morning will include a free breakfast, ice plunge, walk around the lake and some inspirational speakers. This event has created a lot of interest and we look forward to seeing you all down there.
Our EV chargers were commissioned on Wednesday. After substantial delays due to industrial action, Essential Energy was able to connect our new chargers.
These funded chargers are located near the CBD to enable tourists to wander around our town while they get their vehicles charged.
Great news for local electric car owners and travellers alike.
Alan, Kodan and Levi filling the Return and Earn bins for Little Wings at Forbes Public School.
Celebrating sporting successes at Forbes Public School
FORBES Public School has been well represented at State level sports this year, across numerous disciplines.
For 18 years Forbes Public School (FPS) has had a specific sports skills teacher and for eight of those years that teacher has been a specialist PDHPE teacher.
This means every child in the school receives an hour a week of developmentally appropriate sport instruction.
These skills are reinforced during Friday sport which is a non-competitive time to have fun participating in physical activity.
Teaching young children fundamental movement skills assists brain development improving handwriting, memory and reading.
The school uses annual funding from Sporting Schools to encourage life-long enjoyment such as golf and tennis.
By explicitly teaching coordina-
tion, teamwork and sportsmanship from kindergarten our eight-yearolds have the confidence needed to join competitive Primary Sporting Schools Association (PSSA) sporting pathways and FPS enjoys great success in these PSSA representative sports.
For example 16 athletes, 13 swimmers, four rugby league players, three rugby union players, 10 tennis players, two AFL players and one cricket player represented the Western district at state titles in 2024.
Four athletes broke Western PSSA athletics records.
Ari broke a 200m record and our FPS junior boys relay team, Ari, Ash, Jack, Fletcher broke a relay record.
This is an outstanding achievement made possible by the classroom teachers who volunteer to train students, parents who offer their expertise and the P & C who support school sport.
(back) Jack, Van, Jamaraki (front) Leo, Miles, Arlie. One record
Flood recovery fund in focus
Matters of State with Member for Orange Philip Donato:
By PHILIP DONATO MP
TWO YEARS ON November 14 marked the second anniversary of the devastating oods that hit central-western NSW.
The towns of Molong, Canowindra, Cudal, Forbes, Parkes and Eugowra were all signi cantly impacted by the event. Tragically, two local lives were lost in Eugowra on that fateful day.
More than 80 per cent of homes and businesses in Eugowra were damaged by the oods.
One-third of the township, or approximately 150 people, had to be rescued and airlied from their roofs due to the rising ood waters.
Seeing fellow citizens in need, spontaneous volunteers risked their own lives to rescue others.
Truly remarkable stories of heroism and bravery have come from that fateful morning.
Stories of people being stranded on roo ops, scrambling up trees and holding on to anything they could to secure themselves to escape the inland tsunami that came through that morning are real stories of survival.
It was reported as one of the largest air rescue operations in Australian history.
Two years on and where are things up to? The State and Federal governments
$100 million support package for the four local government areas a ected by the oods, being Cabonne, Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan was broken down to $28 million for Community Assets, $32 million for transport infrastructure and $40 million for the Resilient Homes Program.
Since February this year I have been the Chair of the Central West Community Leaders Forum, along with the four mayors and Federal MPs, to look at the distribution and rollout of that funding. On behalf of the community leaders forum and mayors, I thank the State and Federal governments for that funding commitment. But, without sounding ungrateful, I
fear it will not be enough, especially the Resilient Homes Program.
Applications are now open for that program and to date, 116 applications have been received.
The program will consider potential buybacks, retro ts and rise-ups of ood impacted homes.
However, my concern is that it will be oversubscribed and some people will miss out.
I have sought consideration from both State and Federal governments for additional nancial support to complement the homes package.
I know the assessment of ood-impacted homes will commence shortly, which will be most welcome.
The opportunity for experts to attend the properties and discuss resilience home measures with owners is certainly welcome.
However, time is of the essence so we must push on with those stages ASAP. Two years is a long time for people to wait.
We still have 100 or so pods housing ood-impacted residents who cannot go back to their homes while they are waiting on repairs, and it’s taking its toll.
I am acutely aware that those delays add a level of stress and anxiety on many of those people.
Critical water assets to the value of about $20 million belonging to Parkes Shire Council were damaged in the ood.
They are not eligible for any funding.
I have been lobbying the Government to fund repair of this essential infrastructure, and will continue to until there is a solution.
REVIEW OF TRIBUNAL
I appreciate Minister Rose Jackson’s prompt response to the recent publicised incident relating to a forensic patient’s leave and access to social media.
I welcome the Minister’s decision to introduce proposed legislation to reform aspects of the Mental Health Review Tribunal, which will
Two years on there’s a lot more to do
ensure judicial o cers are the ones making important judicial decisions, and patients’ access to social media, which better re ect community expectation and providing additional measures to community safety.
ROBOTIC SURGERY FOR ORANGE?
Last week I addressed the NSW Parliament to recognise the many of bene ts robotic surgery provides surgeons and their patients.
Sydney-based patients and surgeons already have access to these innovative surgical instruments in some of their hospitals, so I’ve been lobbying government to install a da Vinci surgical robot here at the Orange Health Service, to support surgical services provided to our hospital’s patient catchment across Central and Western NSW.
Robotic surgery has many bene ts, including greater surgical precision and control, minimally invasive procedures, faster recovery times and reduced hospital
stay, reduced risk of complications – including blood loss and infections.
State-of-the-art medical equipment and infrastructure has other bene ts, too - such as attracting medical professionals to our healthcare facilities, which is important to increasing local access to specialist healthcare.
GRACE’S PLACE
Last week I joined the Member for Blacktown Stephen Bali MP for a visit to Grace’s Place - a world rst trauma recovery centre, supporting a children a ected by homicide.
This centre is named after Grace Lynch, mother of homicide victim Anita Cobby and a founder of the Homicide Victim’s Support Group – which now manages the centre.
Tenacious advocate Martha Jabour OAM successfully lobbied for the funding, turning an idea into the reality that is now Grace’s Place - which opened in 2023.
I also learned that they have now incorporated support services for families of road trauma.
I applaud Martha and her
team, along with Stephen Bali and his government for delivering this important service for the living customs of homicide, and road trauma.
Vet clinic issues warning after Central West sees increase in Brucellosis
Forbes Veterinary Clinic has warned that they are seeing a rise in the number of Brucellosis dogs in the Central West.
The vet published the advice on their facebook page as a caution to the region’s pig hunters.
As of Friday, November 15 there had been 23 confirmed cases in the Central West.
Brucellosis is a disease caused by a type of bacteria (Brucella) and can be transmitted between animal to human.
Brucella infection is widespread in the feral pig population putting at risk
pigging dogs.
Forbes Veterinary Clinic said some signs to watch out for in your pigging dogs include fevers, abortion, back pain, enlarged testicle/s, lethargic and limping.
You can protect your dogs by not feeding them raw feral pig meat, bones, blood, offal, testicles or other reproductive organs.
Do not breed from dogs suspected or known to be infected with brucellosis and do not allow dogs to play with or feed on animal carcasses.
To minimise the risk of your pigging dogs from contracting Brucellosis make
Precautions you and your family should take if you have an infected dog is to make sure infected dogs are isolated and avoid all unnecessary contact.
FORBES VETERINARY CLINIC
sure to wash dogs after each hunt and if your dogs are wounded in a hunt, use personal protective equipment (gloves, masks and glasses) while administering first aid.
If you think your dog might have Brucellosis you should ring your local vet to get your dog tested, keep
infected dogs isolated from other animals and avoid all unnecessary contact with the dog.
Treatment if your dog tests positive includes a long course of antibiotics and desexing or euthanasia. There are no treatments that guarantee to cure brucellosis infection in dogs,
treatment may be ineffective and still result in euthanasia which is the only way to stop the spread.
Precautions you and your family should take if you have an infected dog is to make sure infected dogs are isolated and avoid all unnecessary contact with infected dog.
Pregnant women and children are vulnerable to this disease as they are highly encouraged to avoid all contact with infected dogs and other dogs that have been pig hunting. People who develop symptoms after contact with potentially infected
animals need to see prompt medical advice and mention their exposure.
Signs of Brucellosis in humans include flu-like illness, fever, headache, weakness, drenching sweats, males- testicles may become inflamed, chills, weight loss and joint and muscle pain.
For more information on Brucellosis you can go online to https://www.dpi.nsw. gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_ file/0004/683482/B.suis_ in_dogs_primefact_October_2023_pdf.pdf or https:// www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Pages/ brucellosis.aspx?fbclid
MP Phil Donato at Grace’s Place.
Member for Orange Philip Donato speaking with Red Bend 2025 leaders Lachlan Kupkee and Ruby Arnott.
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
1 What is a Native American’s hut called (6)
7 Which military staff officer assists the commanding officer (8)
8 Name another term for tin plate (6)
9 What is a ship, abandoned at sea (8)
10 What do we call a person who fishes for pleasure (6)
11 Name another term for a firebug (8)
14 To be rich, is to be what (8)
18 Name a lustrous, hard, brittle metallic element (6)
19 What is a national memorial to those killed in war (8)
21 Who has a special skill in a particular field (6)
22 What is a cake topping of nuts, sugar, spices, etc (8)
23 What is a fixed periodical payment for work (6)
DOWN
1 Name a former goldmining centre in southern Victoria, north of Morwell (8)
2 What is an alternative term for acacia (6)
3 Name a narcotic, shortstemmed European herb (8)
4 To be partly opened, is to be what (4)
5 Name a former premier of the Soviet Union, Joseph ... (6)
6 What are light meals called (6)
12 Which bags are used for carrying schoolbooks (8)
13 Which fabric is used for wall hanging (8)
15 What is a religious celebration (6)
E-QUATIONS
16 What do we call a plunderer (6)
Letters
E-QUATIONS
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
17 To drive, is to do what (6)
20 What is a vaulted semicircular recess in a building (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
1 JAPONIC
(a) Indo-European in language
(b) Glossy black
(c) Japanese
2 LEVANTER
(a) A strong easterly wind in the Mediterranean region
(b) A hare in its first year
(c) A huge sea monster
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:
Anaesthetic liquid (5)
Common pastry dish (3)
Evade a thrust (5)
Groom (5)
Headware (3)
Hearing range (7)
Male offspring (3)
Seed of flax plant (7) Slopes (5) You are (coll) (3)
Classifieds
Social rides rev up in popularity
By DAN RYAN
Regional social rides are growing in popularity, as riders from Young, Harden, Cowra, Forbes, Orange and as far as Bathurst descended upon a feed and well earned bevvie at Gooloogong Pub.
Karen Herrmann
Specialising in residential, rural and commercial property transactions 02 6342 1991 www.stateconveyancingnsw.com.au enquiries@scnsw.com.au
37 Kendal Street, Cowra NSW 2794 State Conveyancing NSW Pty Ltd | License No 06001044
HC Drivers for Feed Delivery
Jones Brothers Family Farm, Orange, NSW Road Transport (Transport & Logistics)
Full time & or Multiple part-time available
HC Feed Driver Required – ASAP Start
Location: Cudal (Orange) | (Mon-Fri + Weekend Options)
Jones Brothers is a family owned and operated poultry business located in the Central West of NSW. We take pride in our commitment to excellence and our dedicated team. We are seeking an experienced and reliable HC Driver to join our team based out of Cudal.
Key Details:
• Hours: Monday to Friday, with some weekend work available.
• Work Type: Tipper work, Manual truck
• Truck & Dog Experience: Preferred but not essential. Training provided.
• Responsibilities:
• Transport feed efficiently and on schedule.
• Maintain accurate logs and adhere to road safety regulations.
• Ensure vehicle cleanliness and perform basic maintenance. Reversing into loading docks and driving heavy vehicles safely.
• Strong communication skills.
• Willingness to undergo a drug and alcohol test.
• Requirements:
• Valid HC licence.
• 2+ years’ experience in a similar driving role is preferred
• Fitness to Drive medical and Fatigue Management Certificate (or willingness to obtain).
• Experience with logbooks Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Flexibility with varying start times.
• Commitment to safety and a strong work ethic.
If you have the experience or are eager to learn, we want to hear from you! Apply now for an immediate start.
Note: Due to quarantine procedures, successful applicants must not have live poultry or pigs at their residence. Jones Brothers is an equal opportunity employer.
Contact: Stephen 0414 717 861 / 02 9679 2922 Email: eggboys@jbff.com.au
~FUNERAL NOTICE~
The relatives & friends of the late Carol Frances Maynard
Aged 69 yrs Of Alder Street Forbes.
Loved Wife of Dale.
Loved Mother & Mother in law of Grant (dec’d), Leon, Adam & Trish, Matt.
Loved Grandma of Brock, Indy & Thomas. Are respectfully invited to attend her graveside service to be held in the presbyterian portion of the Forbes Cemetery.
Commencing at 10am Friday 29th November 2024.
MICHAEL HANLEY’S FAMILY
Independent Funerals and Cremations
Services of Forbes, Parkes and District ☎ 02 6852 1961 ALL HOURS
Return Thanks
Max Weekes
We would like to express our gratitude and extend to all our friends, our sincere thanks for the overwhelming support, love and understanding given to us in our recent loss the many friends that attended the church service and to the friends and relations that couldn’t make it and anyone that helped in any way.
We thank you very much, for Max’s respect Special thanks to Rev Bob Cameron and Hanley’s Funeral Services in assistance with the service.
As there has there been many cards and letters, flowers and phone calls from everywhere, we really don’t know how to express our thanks who offered their sympathy.
Please accept this message as a personal thanks, Signed Lalla, Carl, Kylie, Matthew and families.
Kayleen Badman of Cowra - and one of the organisers of the rides - says the unafliated rides are welcoming to new riders and residents alike.
“I’m a p-plater and only got into bikes last year a er being anti-bike for years, now I can’t get enough of it and it’s been full throttle since then.” said Kayleen.
Kayleen’s Honda Super 4 has ‘plenty to give yet,’ as the Cowra rider and her husband helped organise social rides that started with inviting their mates and neighbours, and has grown since, with about 21 riders this past weekend.
“Our original Good Friday ride was a really ne day, it’s
hard to pick a great time because there’s winter and then really hot ones, but I just ride whenever. We also support all the other rides, we have people from all walks of life.” said Kayleen.
While motorcycling can be an individual passion, Kayleen says the openness of the events are a great opportunity for newcomers to the region to see their extended neighborhood and make friends.
“Even for myself, I serve people in my work that I don’t know from a bar of soap, and now we know eachother as riders.”
“As we say, if you’re new either bikes or the region, you’re welcome; if you’re there - you’re there.” Riders, both newcomers and experienced - can keep an eye on ‘Cowra and Surrounds Social Riders’ Facebook group to keep in touch.
Jessandi takes home gold
By COLIN HODGES
Washed out in August the Three Rivers Machinery Case IH Narromine Gold Cup was run and won on Sunday by the Mack Gri th, Mudgee trained Jessandi.
Before a good crowd at Narromine, Zounile rushed around the 9 horse eld in the early stages of the 1600 metres Cup to lead from Lockdown Gamble, Sea Of Flames and Vincenzo with Jessandi given a nice run in h position by leading apprentice Braith Nock.
Jessandi ($14) pounced on the leading pack in the straight and won by over a length from Lockdown Gamble (Aaron Bullock, $2.70 favourite), Vincenzo (Ella Drew, $3.60) and recent Moree and Coonabarabran Cup winner Macleay.
Talented apprentice Shan-
nen Llewellyn who rode Macleay had a winning treble at Narromine, Charlie Magic, Threetimesalady and Grins.
Owned by David Ringland and partners, the Brett Robb trained Charlie Magic ($2.35 favourite) gained an inside run to account for Hard To Impress (Jake Pracey-Holmes, $3.50) and Avonlee (Georgina McDonnell,$4.80) in the 800 metres Narromine USMC Maiden Plate.
Debut maker Penrose in a betting plunge was backed from $40 to $7 but a er looking a chance when joining the lead entering the home straight nished fourth.
Shannen Llewellyn then won the 1300m QUBE Agri Benchmark 58 Handicap on Threetimesalady ($5.50 equal favourite) for Newcastle trainer John Bannister and completed her treble on the Ross Lomax, Mudgee
trained Grins in the 1100 metres Alan Lloyd Memorial Class 1 Handicap. Rockin’ Edition and Taormina Sailor set the pace with Grins ($3.60 to $3.20) from fourth nishing fast out wide under Shannen Llewellyn to beat Romantic Love (Kody Nestor, $3 fav.) by a short half head while Allande (Mikayla Weir, $21) was a close third. Raced by Colleen Dwyer, Peter Dwyer and partners, the Scott Singleton, Scone trained Bush Telegraph with mature age apprentice Ella Drew in the saddle won the 1600 metres Douglas Egan Memorial Memorial Benchmark 58 Handicap.
Positioned close to the leading group, Bush Telegraph ($14) prevailed in a close nish from Ain’t She Swell (Siena Grima, $13) and Open Pearly Gates (Aaron Bullock, $2.70 favourite).
By DROP SHOT!
Myall and Billy Myall 0-3 all.
Week four of our Short Summer Comp was a ripper with some crucial matches maintaining all team positions bar one.
Wednesday November 20
Court one: RJones v Hardys 20 points to 15. Riley beat Bradman 3-0, Matt Wright lost to Marc Hardy 0-3, Harry Bilsborough lost to Lindy Cowhan 0-3, Bec Jones and Adam Cuskelly beat Lucas Jones and Rose Myall 3-0, 30.
Court two: C Jones v Chudleighs 9 to 26.
Cooper beat sub J Wright 1715 firth set, sub Louise Webb lost to Chris Cogswell 1-3, Luke Bilsborough, sub A Cuskelly and sub Zac Cannon lost to Hunter Bilsbrough, Emma
Court three: Wrights v Markworts 19 to 9. Sub Nate Markwort beat Cam Webb 1513 fourth set.
Team lineup is Chudleighs ahead of R Jones, but Wrights have taken third spot from Hardys now at fourth, CJones are fifth and Markworts last.
Thursday evening
Court one: Millers v Jones 21-all. Sub J Shaw lost to Max 0-3, Danny Bilsborough lost to Jono Cannon 3-4, Shanna Nock played excellent squash toppling hard hitter Nathan roach 3-0, Brett Thomas lost to sub J Wright 3-4, Dennis Haynes lost to Tim Coombs 1-3 and T J Markwort beat Ken Bryant 3-0.
Court two: Pipers v Bayleys 15 to 20. Dan lost to Darryn 0-3, Jake Hennock v Brendon Allegri no game, Lockie Jones beat sub Weivan Huang who played top squash despite losing the fifth set to Lockie 9-15, Clair Bayley beat Oliver Paterson 3-0 and Deb Bryant beat Henry Willis 3-1. Court three: Hornerys v Shaws 21 to 20. Jake Shaw defeated Sam 3-0; Wayne Bilsborough beat Austen Brown 15-7 fifth set. ‘Rocket Man’ Chris McQuie took off and defeated Pete Cowhan 15-5, 15-5, 15-6, no easy feat I can tell you. Alex Bayley lost to Al Carlisle 1-3 and sub H Willis lost to Greg Ridge 7-15 fourth set. Team pozzies here are Shaws, Millers Hornerys and Jones with pipers and Bayleys in the rear.
This week: Team 1 plays 3, 5 plays 2 and 6 plays 4.
Scorching weather, sizzling scores
MEN’S GOLF
By SHORT PUTT
Last Saturday the Forbes Golf Club competition was the annual ‘Deacon Dwyer Trophy’, sponsored by T&M Tyres and played as a 4BBB Stableford Medley. The hot and breezy weather encouraged many to play as early as possible.
The field of 69 players returned scores that were not alight, which surely would have matched the weather conditions. However, they were all respectable scores for this format with more above handicap results and only a few stumbling below handicap.
The winners on the day were the pair of Kim Herbert and Peter Cowhan. They were among the later starters and produced a hot score to match the hot conditions. Their total of 46 points had a handy gap to the rest of the field, and epitomised the success in steady scoring golf.
The pair combined well, marking only a single 1-pointer on the card and that occurring on the 13th hole. They each contributed well on the front-9, but the back-9 was a heavy burden for Pete when Kim only contributed on three holes, and those with the same score as Pete.
The Runners-up were Cody Banks and Harry Callaghan with 43 points. They battled past two other pairs to grab their spot on count back thanks to a strong back-9 that had no 1-pointers and five 3-pointers. Harry was the steady scorer of the pair but Cody chimed in at opportune moments with 3-pointers.
The Individual comp was won by Matty Duke with 40 points, being quite fresh after a small absence from the game. He got the nod after a count back with Liam Fraser. They both had the same points for the back-9, and eventually needed a hole by hole count to determine the winner. Matty had the slightly stronger finish to his round which got him past Liam.
The ball sweep went to 41 point on count back, going to: 43 – R Murray/J Pendleton, C &T Howe; 42 – R Smith/C Alley, P Pymont/L Fraser, P & M Duke, P Dawson/T Callaghan, C Hanrahan/T West; 41 – D Quirk/S Paterson. There were no visitors, The NTP’s went to: 9th –Ladies Sharon Grierson, Men Caleb Hanrahan; 18th – Sally Crosby, Men Cody Banks, with only Caleb converting. There were nine 2’s scored all day, with the 9th yielding five of them. A lone ‘2’ on the 3rd went to Peter Cowhan to help their score along.
Interestingly, the Christian names of the ladies NTP winners started with an ‘S’, while those for the men started with a ‘C’. That is a nice little fact to drop into the dinner conversation.
The Pro Shop Super-Pin, held on the 3rd hole, went to Laurie O’Connor who managed to find the green in
blustery conditions and have his ball nestle 350 cm from the pin. His was an early shot and well protected by the stronger winds later in the day.
How strong was the wind at times? Well, one player who usually finds the corner whilst playing the 14th hole did not make it on Saturday. He hit a low tee shot, keeping it below the wind and intending for it to run. But when it hit the ground it jumped up high and was almost pushed backwards, leaving him well short of the corner. He managed a ‘5’ and followed that with a ‘9’ trying to use a helping wind.
This format requires each of the pairing to do well but importantly to have a good score when their partner is faltering. Unfortunately a few pairings did not do well in this regard. One group had six holes where they scored 1 point or less, much against the grain of their individual success in the recent ‘Medal of Medallist’ event.
And the of course there is the time when it is ‘not your day’. Tom Toohey and Jordan Brett went out full of enthusiasm but the course bludgeoned them to a low score. Tom had more ‘misses’ on his front-9 than scoring holes, while Jordan kept his misses to only two, but found the ‘flat stick’ was not firing on all cylinders. But they had a good laugh.
Many others found it difficult to ‘work the ball’ close to the foliage of the fairway trees and then shape it onto the fairway. Many times the branches seemingly reached out and grabbed the ball in flight. On other occasions a ball flighted on the intended path was whisked away by a gust of wind.
cember 12) and Parkes (December 19).
Last Tuesday 11 played the social 12 holes with the in-form Peter Barnes winner with 28 points from the reliable Barry Parker on a count-back. A highlight for the morning was Jeff Moon scoring an eagle three on the par five sixth.
Despite the weather there were very few horrendous holes. One player managed to record three 9’s alone, and did not help his dad Ken at all. Another marked an ‘11’ on his card for the 7th hole, but was pleased when Kate scored a point for the team. But the last word goes to the player who sketched a sad face on his card instead of a score for the 6th hole. Even the club champion had troubles.
There was no Stableford Medley on Sunday, with players mindful of the bad weather.
Here is the news:
Once again you are reminded to ‘slip, slap, slop, etc’. It is obvious on sunny days but even more important when the wind blows and whistles in behind bare knees and around your ear lobes. Recommendations are to re-apply any sunscreen every two hours or so. Making the turn from front to back is a good point at which to reapply.
Seeking shade is also recommended but that is counter intuitive for golf, as it means you would be among the trees when ideally you want to be on the fairway. And also keep your drinks replenished. There are water bubblers on the 6th and 15th
tees and the Pro Shop is well stocked.
Don’t forget to put some thought into ‘The Longest Day’ event. This is where players in groups try to play 72 holes in one day, with sponsored money going to the Cancer Council. More info is available in the Pro Shop.
This Saturday, 30 November, is an 18-hole Individual Stableford for the men, sponsored by Knights Fabrication, and the same format for the ladies. I can feel the excitement build for the ‘Ham Day’, scheduled for 14 Dec. Sunday has the Stableford Medley for those that want an extra game.
SUMMER SIXES
By SMOOTH SWINGER
It has taken a while but Round 5 of the sponsored Forbes Golf Club Summer Sixers competition saw the last of the ‘unbeaten’ teams fall by the wayside. And all fell in close results.
Blackridge Hire, Gunn Golf, LIV and Sandbaggers all had losses this week. Gunn Golf had the closest loss being beaten by The Foxes by a point, while LIV and Sandbaggers had a couple of points in it. Blackridge Hire got bowled by Globe Hotel. The tightest win for week 5 was by ‘Up to Par’ with a half point win over Still Trying. In Group 1 the best score was made by Globe Hotel who managed 97.5. The only other sub-100 score was made in Group 4 by Six Appeal over ‘Par then Bar’. What was especially pleasing was that all teams recorded an actual score, showing they were keen to get out among the competitive spirit and have some fun.
The big winners in the 5th
round were Southside Swingers (111.5) over LITT (129), Mid Pro (102.5) over HD&SI (110), and Six Appeal (99.5) over Par then Bar (106).
The Rnd 5 Best member nett score was made by Archie Quirk (Gunn Golf) with 32 nett. The Best non-member nett score was made Tim Prior (Six Appeal) with 29.5 nett. The ball sweep went to 34.5 nett, reflecting the better conditions through the week as compared to the previous week. Balls for members will go onto their account while Non-members can get theirs from the Pro Shop.
It is pleasing to see some teams all wearing the same shirts out there. It certainly lends a splash of colour and helps build that togetherness that leads to fun times. Well done.
The ‘Bonus Round’ is looming soon so keep your ears open for when this will be. Make sure you all keep swinging and keep laughing.
VETS GOLF
Perfect conditions from weather to the course greeted 58 veteran golfers to Forbes last Thursday for the last of the Lachlan Valley monthly competitions for 2024. While all was in place for low scoring it was not necessarily the case with only a couple playing below their handicaps with the ball sweep going as low as 31 points.
In A grade it became a case of playing partners from the host club fighting out top honours with Kim Herbert getting the nod on a countback over Alf Davies after both posted 37 points.
Tear-away winner in B grade was Brad Dunk (no relation to Billy) from Cowra with 43 points from Forbes’ Adam Andrews who looked
good for a long time until the last cards were submitted runner-up with 39 points.
Nearest the pins - 9th A grade Barry Parker (Fbs), B grade John Dwyer (Pks) while the Parkes pairing of Richard Hamilton (A) and John Fowler (B) took honours at the 18th.
Ladies winner was Leanne Young, one of three who travelled over from Grenfell and Cowra for the day. Interesting to note it was Forbes’ Fearless Frank Hanns who claimed the shot thinking he was the player, not the marker.
Forbes claimed the Coles/ Miller Shield (best three individual scores) with 113 points, Parkes 96, West Wyalong 93, Grenfell 92, Condobolin 89. Forbes also led the number of representatives with 18, Parkes 15, West Wyalong 8, Condobolin 6, Cowra and Grenfell 5. One visitor.
Forbes were also commanding winners of the Coles/Miller 2024 shield with 1095 points from Parkes 981, Condobolin 956, West Wyalong 868, Grenfell 786.
Ball sweep on Thursday to 31 points. From Forbes and Parkes only – 37 Steve Edwards (F), 36 Barry Shine and Jeff Haley (F), 34 Frank Hanns (F), Lex Hodges (P), 33 Dale Stait (P), Ken Sanderson and Barry Parker (F), 32 Peter Grayson and Bruce Chandler (F), John Dwyer (P), 31 Lex Hodges (P).
Twin Towns vets in Forbes on Thursday, noms from 8.30am for a 9am shot gun start. Thursday will also see the AGM of the host club. The following week Parkes will host the last scheduled twin towns comp which will also include the annual Christmas lunchon and drinks. For those interested rounds are scheduled for Forbes (De-
Organisers are hoping for a good roll-up on Tuesday where discussion will centre on a Christmas get-together after a successful year on the course. Be at the Pro Shop from 9am re ball toss and ‘talk’.
LADIES GOLF
By THE BIRDIE
Stableford was the name of the game with play in two divisions gratefully sponsored this week by Grace’s Hair Studio and Taryn’s Beauty Therapy.
Congratulations Ev Uphill taking out Division 1 carding 35 points. Division 2 had to be decided by count back. Deb Dingwall came out the victor over Lindy Pollock both carding a handicap reducing 38 points. Ball sweep winner were Lindy Pollock, Heather Davidson and Sally Perry. Nearest to the pin winners were Sarah Black on the 9th and Jennifer Fletcher on the 18th.
Matches set down for play this coming week include on Saturday November 30 the Nicholsons Fuel sponsored Stableford with play in 1 Division.
Sunday December 1 is the Ladies Golf presentation luncheon please add your name to the sheet in the ladies locker room, names in by Thursday this week.
Wednesday December 4 will be a Stableford Medley sponsored by Will Gunns Pro Shop. Book online as normal or give Will a ring, play will be between 7am and 1pm.
Saturday December is Stroke, Monthly Medal & Putting Comp sponsored by Flannery’s Pharmacy in one division.
Saturday 14 is Stableford and Ham Day sponsored by Woolworths in 2 Divisions. That’s a wrap, good golfing everyone.
Scott Kirkman.
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
Bowlers called to support AGM
It’s arrived, that’s the An nual General Meeting of the Forbes Sports and Rec reation Club set down for Sunday December 8 from 12.30pm and for it to be the success it should be all members are invited to at tend.
On a busy schedule voting will be one of the major top ics with two nominations, Michael Coles and Jason Howell standing for the po sition of president while the current position of treasur er will also need to be filled.
Reasons for this is simple. Current president/treasurer
Peter Mackay is not stand ing for another term as he has just completed 15 years as a committee members, 16 years of this as treasurer while sharing this as presi dent for the past four years.
Also not standing from this year’s committee will be vice-president Ray Dunstan after 10 years service while Greg Gunn has also declined nomination after serving on and off for any number of years. His astute business brain will also be missed.
Sunday morning bowls,” he added.
BENTICK TROPHY
Along with Michael Coles standing for election will be current board members in vice-president Ron Thurlow, Kerry Roach and Peter Greenhalgh while new nominations are Jason Howell along with Phyllis Miller, Ann-Maree Howell, Aiden Clarke and Ben Parlsow.
While there are the required nine nominations for committee it has been pointed out that nominations are still open and can be received seven days prior to the AGM.
Peter Mackay said yesterday that the December 8 meeting is one of vital importance in continuing the current success of the club.
“I will naturally be giving a report on my time as president which has had many good times and some not so good but that’s the nature of the job,” Peter said.
“I really feel the club is heading in the right direction, we need a solid committee with the election of a new president and a treasurer vital to this continued success.
Please make the effort to attend this vital meeting which will be held after
On the greens play in the hotly contested Bentick Trophy played in conjunction with Sunday morning social bowls is as expected throwing up some close and not so close results.
This will continue with games played on handicap making it almost impossible to predict form on the greens with most at the club good one day and not so good the next. But that’s sport at a local level.
One which went the distance last week has Billy Cowell (handicap score of 25) heading the next round after accounting for Laurie Crouch (28) 26-24 in a mammoth 33 ends. Five all after five, 10-all after 12, 13-all after 17, 19-all after 25, 23-all after 28, 24-all after 32 before Bill scored a two on the last for victory.
Also going the distance has Peter Besgrove (25) into the next round getting the better of Denny Byrnes (28) in 34 ends.
As above nothing in it all game, 6-all after six, 13-all after 16, 18-all after 23, for ‘Bessy’ to get his nose in front
24-21 after 29 but having to look for a change of underwear as Denny charged winning the next three ends but lost out on the last.
Mick Merritt (25) showed the more experienced Viv Russell (31) no mercy in another marathon 37 end game winning 25-28.
As expected 4-all after four, 10-all after 12, 11-all after 14 for Viv to get his nose in front, 17-14 after 22. He held this 25-20 after 31 before Mick won the last six ends 5-3 and victory.
Bob Grant (25) played his best accounting for Allan Hilder (27) 25-16 in 33 ends.
Bob trailed 5-9 after 13 before 12-all at the end of 21 then 14-all after 24. The ageless Bob dominated home 11-2 cruising to victory.
Al Phillips (27) won 28-14 over Kerry Roach (25) in 22 ends. After 2-all at the end of three Al kicked into gear leading 19-5 after 11 then 25-9 at the end of 16. The clubhouse now beckoned for both players.
Shayne Staines (25) showed no mercy winning 25-7 over Ron Thurlow (26) in 20 leading 15-3 at the half way mark.
Over the weekend three more games despite the heat which didn’t hamper the talents of Brian ‘Spro’ Asimus
(32) winning 32-15 over Pat O’Neill (25) in 30 ends.
‘Spro’ led 9-0 after five then 12-1 after eight before Pat found line and length for 16-9 after 16 but to no avail as the bowls ‘boss’ answered to lead 25-9 after 20. The bar beckoned.
Scott McKellar (27) had no mercy for Cliff Nelson (25) in the heat Saturday afternoon winning 27-4 in 17. Cliffy only hit the card three times such was the dominance of Scotty.
In the last game played Jeff Nicholson (35) won 38-6 in 23 over Terry Bokeyar (25) leading 14-0 after five then 29-4 after 17.
Who holds form is the answer on all lips as the highly sought Bentick Trophy sponsored by City to Country Colourbond Roofing under the leadership of Peter Besgrove.
SOCIAL BOWLS
They continue to roll-up in good number for Wednesday morning bowls with eight games of pairs where card draw winners were the highly talented pairing of horsemen in Bill Looney and John ‘Slippery’ Ward winning 16-8 over Leslie Dunstan and Don Craft in 14 leading 10-5 at the end of seven.
Runners-up Eddie Gould who is back playing his best leading for Alf Davies winning 20-12 in 21 over Colleen Liebich and Lyall Strudwick finishing best after being behind 11-12 after 15.
John Baass and Gail McKay played an 18-all draw with Sandra Priest and Paul Doust in 18 ends. 11-all after 11 an indication to the closeness all game.
They are proving hard to beat and they did it again last week, Ann Nixon and Bill O’Connell winning 12-11 in 16 over Therese Davis and Richard Williams. 5-all after eight for A and B to just hand on dropping the last two ends 3-0.
They wanted to play 20 ends, they did for Peter Barnes and Barry Shine to trouble Ann Mackay and Ron Thurlow 22-8 who only won ends with singles and a solidarity double.
Tim Everest and Laurie Crouch won 22-11 over 20 playing John Browne and John Kennedy while next door Angela Dent and Kerry Dunstan were just s comfortable winning 22-10 in 16 playing Irene Riley and Sue White.
In the last Fred Vogelsang and Cheryl Hodges won 29-8 playing Bill Scott and Sue Smith in 18 leading 11-0 after four.
All over early with fearless Fred on song. In-club Ann Mackay and visitor Richard Williams from Harvey Bay Q. Wednesday bowlers make sure your in the know, December 4 games will be commence at 9.30am to finish at 11.30am. Meaning noms from 9am in time for the draw.
Also again announced that Wednesday bowlers Christmas Party will be held on December 11. Something all look forward to so pencil it in.
Only three games on Thursday afternoon with the heat a major contributor to the small turn-out for the $600 jackpot. Again, it went unclaimed.
Winning rink, Billy Cowell and Al Phillips 28-10 in 22 ends over Phil Hocking and Wayne Burton leading 8-0 after four then 12-4 at half time. Two fives on the run
home blew out the score. The remaining two games were a bit one-sided with three elder statesmen involved, where Cliff Nelson and Lyall Strudwick won 2814 over Ron Thurlow and a younger Bruce ‘Poss’ Jones in 18 ends. After being down 1-5 after four Cliff and Lyall put the foot down leading 28-7 prior to dropping the last two ends 7-0.
In the last Denny Byrnes and Brian ‘Spro’ Asimus won 25-16 in 22 over TaraLee Shaw and Viv Russell. Raspberries to ‘Spro’ Asimus, Denny Byrnes and Wayne Burton, resting touchers Billy Cowell and Phil Hocking. Sunday morning no one had a bigger smile after play when Cherie Vincent, Cheryl Hodges, Billy Cowell and Al Phillips collected the $600 jackpot meaning $150 each. Also happy were Mick Merritt and Al Phillips taking the ham raffles.
On the green Cheryl and Cherie were not so lucky going down 23-5 playing Bill and Al in the scheduled 16 ends. The ‘girls’ did win five ends, naturally all with singles but as we said, they were happy when they left for home at lunch time.
In triples Paul Bray, Terry Murphy and Allan Hilder won 15-13 over Trish Todd, Ross Williams and Peter Besgrove coming from 6-7 down after eight of 12. A five and a four did help their cause.
Jax Murphy and Shayne Staines won 16-11 playing Peter Greenhalgh and Mick Merritt due to a brilliant start, 12-0 after seven.
Billy Parslow and Viv Russell combined well to win 2810 over Tara-Lee Shaw and Scott McKellar. 23-6 after 11 while in the last Justin Scifleet and Robert Dukes won 15-13 over Max Vincent and ‘Bert’ Bayley having to win the last two ends 3-0 for victory.
From the scribe – While not on the AGM agenda the position of publicity officer will need to be filled after the meeting if the club wants to continue its trend of telling news and bowls results from the club.
If interested contact Leisa in the club office or any of the current executive.
SSAA news and results: perfect score on fly target
By TONY BRATTON
Results of the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre rimfire rifle shoot on Wednesday November 20. The weather was warm with light breeze from the south west at 2kph and a temperature of 31 degrees. There were nine members in attendance.
25metre Fly target: Bruce Dent, 200/200; John Dean, 199/200; David Sanderson, 197/200; Lionel Redfern, 196/200; Doug Shead, 195/200; Wayne Burton, 193/200 and Lyall Studwick, 193/200.
50metre Fox target: John Dean, 246/250; David Sanderson, 245/250; Bruce Dent, 244/250; Lionel Redfern, 243/250; Doug Shead, 234/250; Lyall Studwick, 221/250 and Wayne Burton, 199/250.
75metre Bear target: Bruce Dent, 115/120; John Dean, 111/120; Doug Shead, 111/120; Lionel Redfern, 110/120 and David Sanderson, 100/120.
100metre Deer target: Bruce Dent, 99/120; John Dean, 94/120; Lionel Redfern, 94/120; David Sanderson, 93/120 and Doug Shead, 84/120. The range officer was;
Anthony Bratton.Scorer was; Bruce Runchel.
The next S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre and other rimfire rifle (.22 magnum or.17HMR). The next Sunday shoot will be held this Sunday December 1, starting at 10am.
The Centre-fire rifle shoots start at 2pm after the Rim-fire shoots on Sunday, names in by 1-30pm, so the targets can be placed on the Centre-fire range.
The next Wednesday shoot will be on December 4, starting at 2pm. All shoots are at the Bedgerebong road range, turn right off the Bedger-
ebong 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 cabilre 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 December 8. A 100 target five stand shoot will be held starting at 10am.
For all information on clay target shooting contact: Norm Brook 0458664541; Tony Bratton (02) 68523349; Ben Smith 0427524151; Doug Davis (02) 68523249 or 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 facebook page for shoot details for dates and times. Like us on facebook @ Forbes Sporting Shooters. Check the facebook 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 reminded the next by-monthly meeting will be on Wednesday December 11 at the Forbes Sport & Rec Club at 7.30pm.
Kerry Roach bowling at Forbes Sports and Recreation Club. PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
Mac Bon’s the toast of the town
JASON Gaffney chuckles about the fact a local syndicate travelled to Sydney to the yearling sales to bring home a colt bred right here in Forbes.
But it made last weekend all the more special, when the now two-year-old had a major win.
Mac Bon is owned by Gaffney with Mark Hartwig, Greg Hartwig and Bailey Hartwig, and was bred right here in Forbes by Phil and Denise Thurston at Celestial Standardbreds.
Mac Bon took out the IRT Breeders Crown for 2YO Colts and Geldings at Melton, Victoria, in sensational style, thrilling all local connections.
“Greg and I went down and watched it - we were on course,” Gaffney said.
“We turned the owners’ room upside down when he won. It’s just awesome that (Thurstons) bred it and we got the chance to race it.”
Mac Bon is now trained and driven by Sydney’s Luke McCarthy, who identified the colt’s promise watching Gaffney drive him in a televised trial.
“(He) rang me up and said I’d love to train that horse for you,” Gaffney recalled.
Two starts in, McCarthy recommended turning the horse out and gelding him.
“He’s just gone leaps and bounds since,” Gaffney said.
Mac Bon looked a winner well out from the finish line in the final at Melton, taking an early lead.
“He only had to pull out as they rounded the corner,” Gaffney said.
“He looked a winner a long way from home, he was just travelling so good. Luke said he never even pulled the ear plugs out on the horse, he was doing it that easy.”
And his secret to success? Temperament, reckons Gaffney, who’s a long-time trainer and driver himself.
“Even at home at our sta-
bles our kids could lead him around, he’s a beautiful horse to do anything with,” he said.
“He doesn’t under-race, he doesn’t over-race. He’s sort of the perfect race horse and we didn’t realise we had it until we sent him to a very, very good trainer.”
Breeder Phil Thurston would agree with that.
He felt Mac Bon, who was bred out of the successful Bon Accord Gal, had outstanding potential from a young age.
Central to that was his temperament, even as a foal,
“He was always a wonderful colt, such a good boy to do anything with, a great temperament,” Thurston said.
He’s grown into a nice size, remaining very athletic, and put in the sort of performances that indicated to the breeders that he had the po-
tential for big wins in him.
The Thurstons were watching from Forbes - they follow all their horses through their careers.
Mac Bon impressed in his heat, placing fourth with a brilliant run home despite being held up badly.
So when he drew barrier two for the final, and was scheduled to have McCarthy back in the driver’s seat for the main race, Thurston knew it would be a race to watch.
BREEDERS’ DELIGHT
It really doesn’t get much better than this for Phil and Denise Thurston, who breed harness racing horses on their property here in Forbes.
Mac Bon’s win makes three Group winners out of just six foals Celestial Standardbreds bred that season - and everyone in Forbes can imagine
What all three had in common all along was that great temperament.
“They were just horses that were good to handle, they would cooperate, they would work with you, you could just do anything with them,” Thurston said.
“We’re so pleased he’s doing well,” Phil said.
“We were so pleased they went down there.
“You’ve really got to savour those moments, they don’t come around very often.”
ON A GOOD RUN
the conditions the Thurstons were dealing with during the major floods of the Spring of 2022.
They had no choice but to keep this particular group of horses on property as rising waters confined them to closer and closer quarters, so to see now Bittersweet, Fate Awaits and Mac Bon achieve major success racing as twoyear-olds this year is a dream come true.
“Absolutely quite amazing,” are Phil’s words.
“People are usually happy to get a group winner int their lifetime.”
So far this year Bittersweet has won the Gold Tiara at Bathurst’s Gold Crown meeting and Fate Awaits won the Protostar followed by the Breeders Challenge.
“It’s a real coup for us as breeders ... quite phenomenal really,” Thurston said.
“It makes a big difference especially as two-year-olds, they’ve got to be mature in the head to race as two-yearolds.”
BIG FUTURE Phil Thurston can’t wait to see what Mac Bon does in future.
“He’s a horse that will improve with age, because of his size and because of his breeding, and you can just sort of see he keeps stepping up,” Thurston said.
“I’m looking forward to his three-year-old season.”
Gaffney says Mac Bon is being prepared for the Regional Breeders Final, followed by the NSW Derby and hopefully the Bathurst Gold Crown Carnival.
After the Melton win, the Thurstons joined the owners at The Inn for a celebratory round and they couldn’t be happier they get to share in the success.
The syndicate did actually have two big wins to celebrate last week: their mare Chynchilla won the Group 3 Forever Gold race in Queensland.
The syndicate purchased Chynchilla as a race mare out of Victoria and as a three-year-old she contested the Victorian major group races.
“She got to a stage where our trainer said she’d be better suited to Queensland - she’s won eight of her 11 starts there and just over $100,000 in prize money,” Gaffney said.
Looks like they’ve made the right move!
Riding high on their successes, Gaffney says the syndicate is excited for the future as well.
He’s already personally got about six young horses back in work, training on the refurbished Forbes showground harness racing track.
Join the club: Forbes Croquet offers a game for all ages
On Saturday November 23
Aussie Croquet was played with only a small number in attendance as many were away either on a holiday or for some other reason.
However those who attended enjoyed the game and the social atmosphere. It was great to welcome Geoff Coles back after a break away with some health issues.
All three games were once again won by David West our very young go ahead player. All that practice must be working for him.
Two games won by John Browne, John Cole, Geoff Coles, Frank Donohoe, John Farah, Joan Littlejohn, Carolyn Neilsen, Peter West and David Williams. Well done to those winners.
John Cole and Joan Littlejohn enjoying their game.
PHOTO: Supplied
Browne, Kevin Wenning & Frank Donohoe def Allan Jones (Solo), Elvy Quirk & Fay Picker def Peter West & Marie Spry.
14/10 scores John Cole & Robin Pols def Bruce Field & Ros Rennick, David West & John Cole def Fay Picker & Bruce Field, Geoff Coles & Joan Littlejohn def Kevin Wenning & John Farah, May Jones & Cheryl Toohey def Phillip Moran & David Williams
14/9 scores as follows: Peter West (Solo) def Cheryl Toohey (Solo), John Browne & Marie Spry def May Jones & Frank Donohoe, Frank Donohoe & David West def
Allan Jones & Kevin Wenning, Carolyn Neilsen & John Farah def Ros Rennick & Robin Pols.
14/11 scores as follows: David Williams & David West def Fay Picker & John
14/13 scores recorded by the following: John Farah & Phillip Moran def Marie Spry & May Jones, Joan Littlejohn & Geoff Coles def Carolyn Neilsen & Elvy Quirk, Allan Jones & David Williams def Ros Rennick & Phillip Moran, Carolyn Neilsen & Peter West def Elvy Quirk & Robin Pols.
On Tuesday November 26 Golf Croquet was played with 34 in attendance. A very warm morning.
11/2 run away scores were recorded by Elvy Quirk &
Bill Scott def Sally Perry & Wayne Wright, whilst Kevin Rubie playing solo def Jill Cripps who also played solo . 10/3 scores Irene Ford & Lyn Simmonds def Kevin Wenning & John Job, 9/4 scores Robin Pols & Peter West def Jill Cripps & Sue Wade, Mal Smith playing solo def Shirley Chamberlain who also played solo. Many 8/5 scores also recorded Carolyn Neilsen & Kevin Rubie def Bill Scott & Marie Spry, Mal Smith def Bruce Field, Wayne Wright & Allan Jones def Shirley Chamberlain & John Job, David Williams & John Farah def John Cole & Kevin Wenning, Carolyn Neilsen & John Farah def Pam Thomson & Bill Scott, John Browne & Barry White def Frank Donohoe & Bruce Field, Lyall Strudwick & Marie Spry def John Cole & Shirley Chamberlain, John Browne & Barry White def Sally Perry & Allan Jones,
Bill Scott & Peter West def Carolyn Neilsen & Sue Wade, May Jones & Graham Falconer def Kevin Rubie & John Farah, David Williams & Robin Pols def Elvy Quirk & Russell Anderson.There were also many 7/6 scores recorded.
Three games on the day were won by May Jones, Robin Pols , Mal Smith & Barry White whilst two games on the day were won by John Browne, Graham Falconer, John Farah, Phillip Moran, Carolyn Neilsen, Elvy Quirk, Kevin Rubie, Bill Scott, Lyn Simmonds, Lyall Strudwick, Pam Thomson, Peter West, David Williams and Wayne Wright.
It was great to see Pam Thomson return to Croquet, a game which she enjoys.
Lyn Simmonds and Barry White are back with a fresh start after a cruise around Australia, Barry showing his old form with an all three game win.
Our summer season is again with us and start time has been moved back to 9am with 8.45 am arrival to get names into the draw.
Our luncheon in the shade area prior to Christmas is scheduled for Tuesday December 10 so please put names down on the sheet to indicate your attendance for catering. Also our Christmas luncheon and prizegiving day is December 17 at the Vandenberg Hotel 12 pm for 12.30 pm serving.
A sheet will be prepared for that at a later date. With Christmas just around the corner it is also time to allot the date for end of play for 2024 and the last day of play will be December 14 with resumption of play on January 7, 2025. Until next week stay safe, stay cool.
“Croquet is a game for young and old”.
By ELVY QUIRK
HOLLY Hope-Hodgetts has been named Junior Female Dirt Track Rider of the Year at the Motorcycling NSW awards for 2024.
A win at the Central Coast Cup and a second place at the Australian titles in Forbes were highlights for the locally-based rider in her nal year in the junior competition - competing in dirt track on her 250cc.
Holly has concentrated her e orts on racing this year, a er years of dedication to both the race track and the dance studio.
The local talent has been racing since she was four, making her start in the Nip-
pers at Forbes Auto Sports Club, and time on the race track has been key to success this year, the family travelling most weekends to race.
The big award was announced at a gala event at Bankstown Sports Club on November 16, an evening to remember for riders, volunteers and other members of the community alike.
The awards recognise everyone within the motorcycling community: volunteers, participants and achievements at State, National and International level.
Holly was nominated for junior female rider of the year in the dirt track category, along with a number of riders who competed at the Australian titles in Forbes, and the family headed to Sydney for the gala night knowing she had been shortlisted to the top four - it was a thrill to be named the winner.
The Hope-Hodgetts have had a busy year on the racing circuit, travelling around the region’s tracks with the average weekend involving travel six hours in just about any direction to race.
Dirt track dynamo
Holly Hope-Hodgetts named NSW Junior Dirt Track Rider of 2024
Holly’s highlight was winning the Central Coast Cup, a highly competitive two-day meet at Gosford.
That meet draws good numbers but she’s seen an increase in female competitors across the year.
“Usually we don’t get many girls my age to compete in those, but there’s been a lot more girls come this year,” she said.
Her hopes are also high for strong competition in 2025, with lots more women in racing in the senior ranks meaning there are more
events for them on offer.
Around starting senior schooling, Holly will be looking to get as much racing as she can in next year.
She’ll be on a 450cc and there’ll be a lot more opportunities and meetings to race with the larger elds in women’s racing.
Of course one of the other highlights was placing second in her long track event at the Aussie titles on her home track at Daroobalgie, hosting the meeting was a great opportunity for both local riders and the
Forbes Auto Sports Club.
TALENTED FAMILY
Hugh Hope-Hodgetts has also had a successful year on the race track, also taking out titles at the Central Coast Cup meeting.
Hugh claimed honours in his Cup class, the 250cc and 125cc, and then won the Clock on the Wall shoot-out. He’s just competed in the nal rounds of the Australian Flat Track, nishing the series in an impressive fourth overall in the Junior Lites.
Hugh’s got one more meeting to round out 2024: he’ll be heading to the Australian Junior Dirt Track titles.
Forbes’ Holly Hope-Hodgetts was named Motorcycling NSW Junior Dirt Track Rider of the Year 2024. PHOTO: loopii. INSETS: Holly Hope-Hodgetts on track. PHOTOS: Supplied