Thursday, February 27, 2025
Call for 24/7 presence
Forbes seeks more police, Minister assures community o icers are ready to respond
We need more police and we need them in town around the clock: that’s the renewed call from Forbes as investigations into a brawl last Wednesday night continue.
A man was airli ed to Liverpool hospital for medical treatment that night and as police canvassed residents for information on Thursday morning, State MP Philip Donato stepped up in Parliament to call for enhanced police presence in our town.
Mr Donato gave notice of motion that on the next sitting day he would call on the house to move that the government reinstate 24 hour policing at Forbes, “enabling police to rapidly respond to serious crime and be a constant and overt presence to prevent crime and more e ectively maintain civil order”.
The matter was also at the fore at the Forbes Shire Council meeting that a ernoon.
Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM said she had been working with Mr Donato and the NSW Government to appeal for increased police numbers.
“We have been ghting: I want you all to know that the Minister (for police) doesn’t get past me saying I want 24 hour (police) every time,” she said at last Thursday’s meeting.
The call for our police station to be sta ed 24 hours is one that’s come up repeatedly
in the nine years Neighbourhood Watch president Lyn Ward has been involved in the organisation.
She launched a petition to local businesses last year and received swi and signi cant response including calls for more copies as the originals lled up.
Lyn has now collected the petitions, with many hundreds of signatures, and is preparing them for presentation to Mr Donato.
NSW Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said she recognised the genuine concerns about crime in regional areas but assured the community that police o cers would respond to calls, and that they could be tasked as needed.
The Minister said decisions about station hours were made by local Commanders based on operational needs, and o cers would be readily redeployed to respond to community requirements and adapt to shi ing crime trends.
“Our o cers are out in the eld 24/7, fully dedicated to protecting communities and ensuring o enders are brought to justice by launching investigations as quickly as possible,” Minister Catley said.
The Minister acknowledged a shortage of o cers - 2000 across the State - but said the NSW Government was work-
cruitment and retention strategies.
“Just this week, we announced that over 1,000 new recruits are set to graduate in 2025, driven by a remarkable 65 per cent surge in applications to join the NSW Police Force,” Minister Catley said.
“Our ‘You Should Be a Cop in Your Hometown’ program has already seen nearly 50 applications since its launch last year, meaning our regional areas will see 50 new recruits stationed in their communities by the end of this year.
“Every community in NSW, including Forbes, bene ts from a round-the-clock police presence, ensuring prompt responses at all times.
“I would also like to remind the community that every police vehicle acts as a mobile station, giving o cers the ability to quickly respond to calls for help while on the move.
“If you need immediate assistance, please call triple zero, and the police will respond.”
At time of preparing for press, investigations into last Wednesday’s incident were ongoing.
Police do urge anyone with information or footage to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or by going online to https://nsw.crimestoppers. com.au
Join us for International Women’s Day breakfast
Forbes will celebrate International Women’s Day with breakfast by Lake Forbes on March 8.
Inspirational speakers Kelly Foran and Belinda Mawhinney will be sharing their insights as our special guests, with live entertainment and delicious breakfast in a beautiful setting.
Both Kelly and Belinda are dedicated to empowering others, whether through compassionate support or strategic leadership development.
Kelly Foran is the founder and CEO of Friendly Faces Helping Hands.
Kelly is a passionate advocate for rural communities and her foundation provides support to rural families navigating medical crises.
The Foran family’s journey through the medical despair has led to the creation of a lifeline for others navigating similar paths.
Belinda Mawhinney is a seasoned leadership consultant, who works with leaders and organisations to enhance workplace culture and performance.
Her approach focuses on building strong foundations and addressing unique leadership challenges, ensuring that teams can navigate complexities and achieve collective goals.
Tickets are $30 online through123tix.com. au and these include breakfast, amazing guest speakers and a gi for all attendees.
From the mayor
A REMINDER for all that Sunday is Clean Up Australia Day. Join us at Victoria Park at 9am to help out and then stay to enjoy a free bbq.
WHAT’S ON in and around Forbes
COURSE ANGLERS
Friday, February 28
Join the Sydney Course Angling Club for a free Learn to Fish Workshop at Lake Forbes on Friday! It’s on Friday 28 February from 4pm-5pm by Lake Forbes - behind Forbes Primary School.
CARP MUSTER
March 1
OzFish is hosting a Carp Muster on Saturday 1 March 2025 at the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre at Lake Forbes. You can sh at Lake Forbes, or anywhere in the region, as long as you’re back at the OzFish hub at the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre at 2pm to weigh in your carp. It’s free to enter and there are prizes for the biggest carp and most carp caught. In order to enter, you must also collect at least 50 items of rubbish. Registration begins at 6am at the OzFish hub at the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre. This is a catch and release event for natives.
OPEN DAY AT LAKESHORE EARLY LEARNING
Saturday, March 1
Between 10am and midday on March 1, join a tour of this newlytransformed local at 26 Bandon Street. Meet the team of educators, see the amazing spaces and meet the pets! This is a great opportunity for the community to see the transformation of the site once home to Sullivan’s Supermarket
WIRRINYA AQUATIC
CLUB COCKTAIL
EVENING
March 1
Experience an incredible evening by the scenic Wirrinya ski dam! Savour delicious wood- red pizza and enjoy live music by Gracey Denham Jones. Tickets online now at 123tix.com.au and be sure to book your return bus as well.
CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA DAY
Sunday March 2
Make a positive impact this Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday 2 March 2025. Register your own clean-up site online at www. cleanup.org.au/register or join the Forbes Shire Council clean up. Register your interest in getting involved by emailing forbes@ forbes.nsw.gov.au and be allocated a site on the day. Meet at Victoria Park from 9am, gloves and bags will be provided!
CENTRAL WEST FARMING LUNCH
Friday, March 7
Central West Farming Systems is hosting a free ladies lunch and learn in Forbes. Presenters include Diana Fear - CEO of CWFS, Chiara Stommel - Trials Agronomist and Carbon Farming Outreach Trainers will partner with Emma Ayli e - a highly respected local agronomist to better understand carbon farming through the support of the National Industry-led Carbon Farming Outreach Program. Questions to Brooke on 0428 039 273 or Brooke.watts@dpi.nsw.gov. au Bookings are essential through
JOURNALISTS
trybooking.com
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
Saturday, March 8
Save the date to celebrate International Women’s Day 2025March Forward with breakfast at Lions Park from 7am to 10am. Tickets online at 123tix.com.au
DONNY SCHATZ MEMORIAL BOWLS
www.forbesadvocate.com.au
Did you know more than 22 million helpers have pulled on their gloves and donated their time to help out in the past.
Congratulations to the Forbes Business Chamber for its networking night on Monday – several new and existing businesses attended to gain a great insight into radio and print advertising.
It was also a great opportunity to network, the Chamber hosts several events and regular co ee catch ups for the business community to stay updated and connected.
On Tuesday, Deputy Mayor Chris Roylance, attended the Daroobalgie Road Level crossing. Work has now been completed to install re ective boom gates, high intensity LED ashing lights and bells with new signage and line marking for both road and railway users.
Saturday March 8
This great event returns to Forbes Sports and Recreation Club, with teams of three invited to register for this fun day and fundraiser for Forbes CanAssist. It’s $25 including lunch, details at the club.
SPRINGVALE CUP
Saturday, March 8
The Springvale Cup charity rugby union tournament is coming back to Forbes and it’s going to be a great day. From opens to Old Boys and Masters, it’s all happening at Spooner Oval with action all day. Wrapping up that night with a charity auction to support local causes back at the Forbes rugby union club house.
SOYA DINNER
Saturday, March 8
It’s local sport’s night of nights as we recognise our achievers. The Forbes Sportsperson of the Year Awards are on at Club Forbes from 6pm. Tickets are available online now at 123tix.com.au Please book by 28 February.
Renee Powell 0448 238 023
rpowell@midwestmedia.com.au
Brendan McCool 0448 238 254
bmccool@midwestmedia.com.au
CLASSIFIEDS 02 6342 1044
mbrown@midwestmedia.com.au
ADVERTISING
Courtney Gambrill 0448 248 080
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TRUNDLE BACK IN TIME MARCH 15 AND 16
LIONS MARKETS
Saturday, March 15
Lions markets by Lake Forbes are back and they have a new purpose: to celebrate our local heroes. This month it’s the Forbes SES. The markets are at Lions Park, Lake Forbes. Stallholders contact Peter Bright 0429 463 803 or Chuck Smith 0487 858 551 or email forbes.nsw@ lions.org.au Gates open 6.30am for stallholders, 8am for the public.
TRUNDLE BACK IN TIME
March 15 and 16
This celebration of heritage returns to Trundle with the theme Show Us Ya Tracks. There will be all the favourites - the tractor pull, sheaf toss, swap meet, market stalls and kids zone with live music too.
Want to add to this list? Email renee.powell@ forbesadvocate.com.au to
generate new opportunities for regional Australia, just
Cr Roylance welcomed this increased safety measure. Inland Rail is a great opportunity for increased freight demands to keep pace with our growing population. It will be an excellent link for businesses, manufacturers and producers to access markets to buy and sell. This rail link will generate new opportunities for regional Australia, just as Forbes shire Council has established new industrial opportunities at the strategically placed Central West Industrial Park –readily accessible by road and rail.
Thank you to all our amazing community groups and volunteers attending our Welcome to Forbes event. What a lovely night for people to meet and nd out more about of our amazing community We are excited to welcome the Sydney Course Anglers shing club here on the weekend for their rst ever shing event on Lake Forbes. It is quite an unusual sport with very long shing poles and no reels. The Club Members are happy to share their unique knowledge and love of the sport, so they are hosting a free kids workshop on Friday a ernoon (behind the primary school) from 4-5pm. No RSVP needed. God Bless, Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM
Tony Bernardi to retire after 70 incredible years
Tuesday marked one of the Bernardi family’s most significant announcements since the Drive In Food Mart opened in 1969 on the corner of Lachlan Street and Brownes Lane.
Tony Bernardi is retiring a er a career spanning 70 years since arriving in Forbes as a 17-year-old migrant.
Tony’s story is one of determination and hard work, the Bernardis shared. He came to Australia with
a small suitcase, and he retires with many notable business achievements, four children, 18 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren - so far.
His family is extremely proud of his achievements and his lifelong dedication to his passion, fruit and veg.
Tony would like to thank everyone in the local Forbes community and district for their support over the many years.
He appreciates his many
friends and loyal supporters who have made his job so satisfying and enjoyable throughout, and he pays tribute to the countless wonderful team members he has worked with for their contribution to the Bernardi business.
The Bernardi family will be hosting a morning tea and barbeque on 21 March at from 11am-2pm for all those who would like to wish him well on his wellearned retirement.
Judith honoured with industry excellence award
JUDITH Kopp from Life Pharmacy Forbes has been recognised at the industry’s retail excellence awards.
Independent Pharmacies Australia hosted the 2025 Retail Excellence Awards at the Pullman on the Park in Melbourne, and Judith was one of six exceptional individuals honoured being awarded the Loyalty Champion Award.
Judith is a pharmacy assistant at Life Pharmacy Forbes but initially started at Flannery’s Pharmacy in 2001.
She loves her job saying she enjoys the interactions with sta and customers and getting to know customers that come in regularly.
“My favourite part of my job is making sure that people are happy and if they have a problem I can help solve that problem for them,” Judith said.
“I was quite shocked, surprised and honoured when I found out I was nominated and I was speechless when I found out that I had won, I’m still in shock.”
IPA Managing Director, Steven Kastrinakis, said the 2025 Retail Excellence Awards were a testament to IPA’s determination to continue to recognise those within the network who not only generate results, but make a concerted e ort to connect with and make a di erence to their community and pharmacy teams.
“We are delighted to recognise and congratulate the exceptional hard work and
dedication of all six winners to deliver quality healthcare outcomes at our rst Retail Excellence Conference with 120 member delegates and 60 sponsor delegates,” Kastrinakis said.
“Each of their exemplary contributions to their pharmacies, communities and teams to illustrate incredible problem solving and a can-do attitude.”
The awards recognised six of the most exceptional individuals within the IPA network based on factors such as individual performance, innovation and ongoing commitment to patient health.
Key selection criteria for
those who took home rst place included connecting with consumers in an impactful and creative way, leveraging the power of loyalty programs to generate optimum performance, providing outstanding customer service, making a a di erence to pharmacy, community and team culture and being identi ed as a Rising Star early in their career.
“It’s a team e ort that has been recognised for this award.
“Everyone works hard to recognise the customers for loyalty so I’m just honoured to accept the award,” Judith added.
will be accepted until COB 28 February 2025. For further information please contact Council’s Manager Corporate Business on 6850 2300 (Option 4).
Tender 2025-04 - Lake Activation Plan
Design, Supply and Install Playground and Soft fall at Forbes Lions Park and Apex Park
Council is seeking tenders from suitably qualified and experienced parties for the design, supply, and installation of playground equipment and soft fall surface at Lions Park and Apex Park in Forbes.
Tenders are to be lodged via Council’s e-tendering portals
VendorPanel Marketplace or Tenderlink. The closing time for submissions is 11am, 4 March 2025.
For further information, please contact Council’s Governance Officer
- Procurement and Risk. Canvassing of any of Council’s staff or Councillors will disqualify tenderers from the tendering process. The lowest of any quotation will not necessarily be accepted.
Pre Lodgement Meetings
Forbes Shire Council encourages any party planning to lodge a
Development Application to book a pre lodgement meeting first.
Council offers pre lodgement meetings to assist applicants and ensure they know what they need to have their application approved.
These meetings give applicants the chance to meet with a member of Council’s Planning department, introduce their project/plans to them and learn what they can and cannot do, and what they will need for a successful application.
By booking a meeting applicants will help avoid any delays during the lodgement process caused by lack of information.
To book a pre-lodgement meeting please contact Forbes Shire Council on (02) 6850 2300 or development@forbes.nsw.gov.au
Proposed Amendments – Schedule of Fees and Charges – Various
In accordance with s. 610F of the Local Government Act 1993, Council places on public exhibition proposed amendments to its Schedule of Fees and Charges (solar panel recycling fee, large-scale school holiday events). Details of the proposed amendments are available on Council’s website and its Administration Office at 2 Court Street, Forbes. Submissions may be made in writing to The General Manager, PO Box 333, Forbes NSW 2871, by email to forbes@forbes.nsw.gov.au or delivered to Council’s Administration Office at 2 Court Street. Submissions will be accepted until 5:00pm 28 March 2025. For further information, please contact Council’s Governance Officer on 6850 2300 (Option 4) International Women’s Day Forbes Shire Council will be celebrating International Women’s Day on Saturday 8 March and invites the community to join us from 7am for a delicious breakfast by the lake. Announcing inspirational guest speakers Kelly Foran and Belinda Mawhinney Both Kelly and Belinda are dedicated to empowering others, whether through compassionate support or strategic leadership development. Tickets include Breakfast, amazing guest speakers and a gift for all attendees. Get your tickets at 123tix.com.au. We look forward to seeing you there! For additional event information, please contact Council’s Events Officer on events@forbes.nsw.gov.au or 02 6850 2300.
Tony Bernardi in the bustling Bernardi’s store of today and (inset) in 1955. PHOTOS: Supplied
Charity Cup day returns
Cup returns to Forbes on Saturday 8 March with a full day of rugby entertainment planned at Spooner Oval.
The tournament features Golden Oldies, Masters (35 years and over) as well as opens, and culminates with a charity auction raising funds for local causes.
Forbes hosted the event in 2023 and organiser Paul Ventura is looking forward to bringing it back.
“We’re coming back to Forbes and at this stage it’s probably where we’re going to stay,” he said.
“The club has been fantastic and really supportive, the town as well, it’s just a pleasure having the event there.”
Registrations for the day are coming in, with new expressions of interest.
Details, including of who might lace up the boots for Forbes and who they’ll take on, still being finalised but sure to be of interest.
“It’s shaping up to be a great event and we hope to raise a lot of money for the club and local charity as we do each year,” Ventura said.
“We really want it to be a community event, so it’s not just for rugby fans or the club.
“We have a welcoming function on Friday night and then on the Saturday night we have the after party, the charity auc -
tion and the awards ceremony.”
Because it is a charity event, everybody is encouraged to come to the auction - and bid.
Of course there’s rugby memorabilia to be snapped up but there’s something for everyone with sponsors supporting great offers like vacations.
Proceeds go to the Forbes community.
Forbes Rugby Club Sam Parish is looking forward to the Cup as the season really does get under way for the club.
“It’s a really exciting couple of weeks,” he said.
Our seniors have signed up for the Cowra 10s tournament this
weekend, and follow that straight up with a trial anticipated as part of the Springvale Cup day.
The much-anticipated President’s Lunch is on Saturday, 22 March with the club announcing a great line-up of guest speakers.
Pre-season training looking good with good numbers in the colts, and a solid cohort of newcomers to town joining the rugby training ranks.
The club’s season launch is scheduled for 5 April with a trial match on their home ground against Wagga Ag College.
Forbes’ Blowes Clothing Cup campaign kicks o on April 12 with Platypi hosting Orange Emus.
Health District calls for exercise insights
THE local health district is looking at community exercise in the Canowindra area and asking residents, including those from Eugowra, to be part of the planning.
The Canowindra Community Health team is reviewing their community exercise activities for residents in and around Canowindra, Eugowra, Gooloogong, Cargo and Billimari as part of their planning for 2025.
They are interested in hearing about locals’ experiences, to learn about challenges faced in accessing exercise activities and the type of exercise activity that would be of interest to people in those communities.
Feedback will help shape planning of community exercise in the region.
The survey closes 4 April 2025.
A link to the survey can be found on the Western NSW Local Health District Facebook page, or online at https:// engage.wnswlhd.health.nsw.gov.au/
A cool show to see this year
GET out your diaries and calendars, this is one event you won’t want to Let It Go.
The Parkes Musical and Dramatic Society is chilled to announce its junior production for July 2025 will be Frozen Jr.
Appropriately set in the middle of winter, the production will be led by the talented ‘superstar direction team’ of Angie Drooger, Ruth Barnes and Lyn Townsend.
Audition workshops will be held mid-May with rehearsals to start soon after.
Cup proceeds flow to local community groups
THE Springvale Cup rst came to Forbes in 2023 and the proceeds owed to the local community.
Two of the organisations to bene t were Eugowra Community Children’s Centre and Eugowra Junior Sports. Eugowra Junior Sports was established in 2023 to provide local children with sporting opportunities through a combined streamlined club. They were starting from scratch, with most sports
equipment damaged or completely lost in the ood event of 14 November 2022.
So far, the group is focussed on junior soccer in winter and swimming in summer, with the funds destined to support children with soccer shirts, pool lane rope tensioners and cover, and soccer goals.
The Eugowra Community Children’s Centre is soon to commence building a new permanent facility.
While the NSW Government has funded the new preschool, the long daycare component of the development is yet to be government funded, and the community is working to raise funds.
This year’s Springvale Cup is on at Spooner Oval on Saturday 8 March and spectators are welcome to come down and watch the action. The fundraiser auction will take place back at Forbes Rugby Union Club that evening.
SPRINGVALE
Councils key to housing solutions, Mayor tells inquiry
The peak body for local government in New South Wales is advocating for actions to increase the supply of a ordable housing for more people, including essential workers, across the state and cautioned that solutions must be tailored to suit local communities.
Don’t dump on charity: donation bins removed
Local charity donation bins are being removed as St Vincent de Paul pleads with the region to stop dumping dirty and dangerous items for their volunteers to clean up.
While the charity does receive quality donations that are very welcome, the organisation’s regional manager Tanya Godden says some of what our volunteers have to deal with is disheartening.
“I can only imagine how anyone would feel if it were their own grandmother or grandfather sorting through piles of discarded dinner scraps, mouse-infested items, grass clippings, dog waste, blood and urine-stained clothing, broken and dangerous objects, or heavy furniture they simply cannot li ,” Ms Godden said.
“This is not the way to support
The funds raised through our shops directly support locals in need -
providing essentials like food, accommodation and utility assistance.
- TANYA GODDEN ST VINCENT DE PAUL
charity, and ultimately, it takes time and resources away from helping those who truly need it.”
Vinnies does do vital work in our community thanks to its incredible volunteers.
“The funds raised through our shops directly support locals in need - providing essentials like food, accommodation and util-
ity assistance,” Ms Godden said. The need for Vinnies’ support continues to grow and the service would very much welcome more volunteers in its work - donation dumping places a physical and emotional burden on the people who are giving their time to help others.
Forbes’ bins were scheduled
for removal on Monday, February 24, and Ms Godden is seeking the community’s continued support by bringing donations in to the store during open hours.
Good quality, reusable items can be donated to support the work of St Vincent de Paul in our community.
“I manage 52 per cent of NSW Vinnies West Retail Stores, and every day, I see the impact this has on our volunteers,” Ms Godden said.
“If there’s one thing I can do to ease their burden, it is to bring this issue into the spotlight to raise awareness and ask for the community’s support in making responsible donation choices.
“This will ensure that our volunteers can continue their incredible work without the unnecessary challenges that donation dumping creates.”
Join Black Dog Ride for one day event
The Black Dog Ride is back for 2025 and it’s coming to Forbes.
The one-day event is based out of Condobolin for our region on Sunday, 16 March.
Riders are invited to get together at the Lachlan Visitor Information Centre from 8.15am on the day, with the rider brief from 9.30am and departure at 10am.
Registrations are being taken online, through 123tix.com.au with the event based in Condobolin.
Or you can scan the QR code below to register.
The mission of Black Dog Ride is to raise awareness of depression and suicide prevention.
The organisation holds a national long-distance ride every year, connecting with communities along the way to bring attention to the cause.
But each year, on the third Sunday of March, one-day rides are held in every state and territory of Australia, ensuring mental health and suicide prevention are spoken about right across the country.
The tragic loss of loved ones to suicide drives Black Dog Ride to build a community culture of awareness, inclusion and acceptance. Breaking down the barrier of silence encourages our friends, family and colleagues to seek help, because mental illness is just that, an illness.
You can go online to blackdogride.org.au to nd out more about what they do, nd resources, or start fundraising towards this year’s ride. The local ride will travel from Condobolin to Forbes, on to Eugowra and back to Parkes. Pre pay $10 per person on check in for a barbecue lunch at
Local Government NSW (LGNSW) President and Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM addressed the NSW Parliamentary inquiry on options for essential worker housing.
More than one third of all submissions to the inquiry were from the local government sector, and Mayor Miller said that underscored the scale of the issue and the urgent need for solutions.
“Essential workers are fundamental to maintaining well-functioning, prosperous local communities and economies,” Mayor Miller said.
“These key workers need to be able to live in the communities they serve, and the planning system should play its part in facilitating that outcome.
“Firstly, the planning system could deliver much needed a ordable rental housing in perpetuity in well-located areas through the NSW Government’s framework for a ordable housing contribution schemes.
“But councils have told us that developing and getting these schemes approved is a challenging and lengthy process.
“Secondly, when the NSW Government is implementing widespread upzoning through its major planning changes it’s critical to have mechanisms in place to capture some of this development upli for a ordable housing.”
Mayor Miller also said that while welcome, regional councils had additional concerns about the impact of major infrastructure projects, such as new regional hospitals, road upgrades, and renewable energy developments.
“Without adequate housing and services, the in ux of workers for these projects places additional strain on existing essential workers, exacerbating the housing crisis, disadvantaging other vulnerable households and again forcing councils to bear the brunt of providing housing to essential workers like doctors and police,” Mayor Miller said.
“LGNSW urges the NSW Government to work closely with councils to address these issues in a way that balances the needs of essential workers, vulnerable communities, and the broader housing system.”
The inquiry is due to report back to Parliament by 16 June 2025.
Local development on track: State
Forbes is one of the areas where collaboration between governments has already seen Crown Land opened up for housing in north Forbes.
The project site comprises around 10 hectares of vacant Crown land, with access off Farnell Street and Dawson Street, just 2.2 kilometres north of Forbes town centre.
Parkes’ Cambridge Hotel about 12.30pm.
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, or with someone who is, please act promptly. For support:
In an emergency, call 000 immediately.
Lifeline Crisis Support –phone 13 11 14
The land was zoned for residential use by Forbes Shire Council in 2013. Homes NSW intends to subdivide the site to create around 102 new lots to deliver around 132 private, social, and affordable homes in an inclusive community over the next three to four years.
Homes NSW says construction of the 130-property mixed tenure development is on track to begin mid year.
Once complete, it is expected to deliver 40 social and affordable homes, including homes for key workers, along with 92 private dwellings.
St Vincent de Paul regional manager Tanya Godden is asking people to donate good quality, reusable items in store with the charity donation bins too o en used for dumping dirty or broken items.
PHOTOS: Supplied
Selfless, kind Alison remembered
Alison Lockhart
May 1942 - January 2025
Beloved wife of Alister, loved mother and mother-in-law of Andrew and Sharon, Colin and Kate, Lynn and David Babich and devoted Grandma to Olivia, May, Samuel, Lucas and Robbie.
Alison’s funeral was at Forbes Uniting Church on Tuesday 21 January, 2025, and the following eulogy shared by her son Colin.
Alison Lockhart was born to Jack and Jeannie Kirkpatrick in May of 1942 in Moffat, Scotland.
Because the name Alison Kirkpatrick was a bit of a mouthful, at the age of three she would introduce herself as ‘Ali Packet’ . My grandmother told me many times that little Ali Packet was already wilful and independent.
If you ever found her struggling about some task and o ered to help, without looking up she would say: ‘I’s manage’. As she grew up, this practical philosophy would never change.
Her family lived in a grand-looking house in Beattock, called ‘Loch House’, where at the age of ve, she met the King.
A train bearing George VI and his family; the Queen Mother, the newly-engaged Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip, and also Princess Margaret, had stopped nearby overnight.
The King had asked to inspect the cows, and while he spoke to her father, ve-yearold Alison proudly told the Queen Mother all about her little twin sisters and her new baby brother Jack; just seven days old.
A er attending Mo at Primary and Dumfries Academy, where she was Head Girl of her hostel and prefect of the school, she studied at Glasgow University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Maths and Physics.
A er teacher training, she served for four
years as House Mistress for the 22 girls of Robertson house, Jordan College; with whom she travelled to Morocco, where they were kept on a very short leash indeed.
She and my father Alister had known each other in high school, but only in passing. Alison was a good little girl, and she felt that Alister Lockhart was ’a bit wild’.
Some years later, they met again at the Mo at Show Dance in her rst year of uni. Now it seemed that ’a bit wild’ was more of a virtue than a aw.
Dad would continue to visit throughout her days at uni and at Jordan college.
They were married in December of 1967. My father bought a small farm called Branetrigg; where he worked tirelessly to build the property into a viable dairy business.
Alison worked no less hard; working fulltime teaching maths at Lockerbie Academy, while keeping tabs on an oldest child who had a talent for carefully dismantling his cot, a middle child who drew colourful pictures on her brand-new furniture, and a little girl every bit as wilful as herself climbing the garden wall and falling head rst into a giant thatch of stinging nettles.
In 1981, we moved to Australia.
Having fallen in love with Forbes, Alister worked with renewed vigour on his new farm of Werai, while mum made a home for her family.
She also continued to teach maths as a private tutor.
She loved to have friends over, and relished the opportunity to entertain. Across the years, she saw to it that no visitor to our house could be welcome enough.
Travellers from Scotland, friends of friends and exchange students from across the world were routinely billeted at Werai.
Almost every Christmas table she set had at least one place for a stray whom she would make every e ort to spoil like family.
In 1989 my father had the kind of accident that pretty much every farmer has very nearly had.
As he lay in his hospital bed cobbled together with titanium pins and hope, a social worker soberly told my mother that under the circumstances the likelihood of the marriage ending within the year was around 90 percent.
In a recent brief memoir she wrote:
“I must have cried a river of tears in that eight months.
“Then one day I shook myself and promised that crying was doing no good- I was the only one it made feel bad- so I vowed I would not cry again.”
On the 16th of December 2024, Alister and Alison celebrated their 57th wedding
anniversary. This is who she was.
I never in my life met anyone so sel ess. Everything she worked hard at was for the sake of others; her family, her friends, her community.
She relished her time at the View club, and the many very dear friendships forged there and elsewhere here in Forbes. And all she would expect in return was a cup of tea and some quiet to do her crossword.
If ever help was o ered unasked, she would simply say ‘I’ll manage’.
As a Mum, she approached every situation with practicality, always allowing us to make our own choices and mistakes.
She let us run free, within reason, but we always knew the boundaries.
There was no doubting how deeply we were loved.
As a Grandma, she was warm, gentle, and devoted, building loving connections with all her grandchildren. Looking back, she loved to spoil us, giving us everything we needed, or sometimes what we wanted.
By blood, to her eldest, Andrew, she gave his analytical intellect and even temper. To Lynn she gave her honesty and strength of character. I was gi ed with creativity and ... well, freckles.
At the end, she le us peacefully; surrounded by her family. A blessing. Also be assured that as weak as she became, her mind was as strong and present as ever. This too, was a blessing.
Even a er she could no longer speak, Lynn jokingly asked her to tell us, at long last, which one of us three was her favourite. I said that of course that was me.
My mother said, and I quote: ‘Ha!’ She was a kind, intelligent, and generous soul, facing every obstacle with strength, resilience, and grace.
We cannot replace her, we can only remember her.
If she could speak to us now, she would say: ‘Oh, don’t worry. You’ll be ne.’ We’re not there yet. But we’ll manage.
Advocating for the central west: Matters of State with Philip Donato
By PHILIP DONATO MP
As we move through 2025, I remain committed to advocating for the needs of our region and ghting for the issues that matter most to our communities.
In my recent sittings in Parliament, I have raised critical concerns a ecting the Central West - from improving road safety and strengthening regional health services to pushing for vital reforms in mental health legislation and advocating for life-saving measures in schools and aged care facilities.
The tragic loss of lives on our roads, particularly on Lake Canobolas Road, highlights the urgent need for greater investment in road infrastructure and safety measures to prevent further heartbreak in our community. I have called for a comprehensive review of road conditions and increased state funding to upgrade critical road networks in the region.
FORENSIC PATIENT
SECURITY
The security and wellbeing of regional communities remain a top priority.
Minister Rose Jackson introduced a bill to parliament which substantially addressed the management of forensic mental health patients and access to social media. I strongly supported this legislative reform, and I am pleased to advise that this bill passed the NSW Legislative Assembly, unopposed. This now means that forensic patients are better managed, and the community is a orded greater protection - which better aligns with community expectations.
I also called for additional protections for the community through amendments to the Mental Health Legislation Amendment Bill 2024, ensuring that forensic patients granted leave from mental health facilities are electronically monitored to prevent situations like those we have recently witnessed. While my amendment to mandate ankle brace-
lets was voted down, I will not give up on pushing for common-sense reforms that prioritise community safety over awed administrative processes.
LIFEVAC
Our community has also faced devastating losses due to child choking incidents, and I have been working to push for the introduction
of LifeVac airway clearance devices in schools, childcare centres, and aged care facilities.
Simple, a ordable measures like this could prevent future tragedies and give our children and vulnerable people a greater chance of survival in an emergency.
NSW FARMERS BEING LEFT IN THE DUST
I once again called on the NSW Government to act on my virtual fencing reform initiative.
This ag technology is already advancing in QLD, WA, and Victoria.
NSW farmers are at a competitive disadvantage while outdated legislation stalls access to this innovative livestock management tool.
Last week, I asked the Minister for Agriculture what steps her department has taken following the 2024 parliamentary report on virtual fencing, and whether work has yet commenced on developing a code of practice. Like many frustrated farmers, I await her response.
FREE GRANT WRITING WORKSHOP
Have you been frustrated when applying for grants, and disappointed to be told you’ve been unsuccessful a er you’ve done all of the hard yakka putting a submission together?
You’re de nitely not on your own! I hear this routinely from many frustrated grant applicants.
To help remedy this I will be hosting my second annual Grant Writing Workshop.
Expert tuition will be delivered by the guru - professional grant writer Keith Whelan, aka The Grants Guy, to help you achieve increased chances of success on your next grant application.
The comprehensive threehour grant writing workshop will be held in Orange Ex-Services Club’s Greenhouse Function Room, 231243 Anson Street Orange, commencing 6pm sharp on Wednesday 9 April 2025, bump-in from 5.30pm. This event is completely free-of-charge.
Positions for this workshop are limited to organisations based in the Orange electorate.
There will be limited spots, so get in quick to reserve your place - bookings are essential. Light refreshments will be served for participants during an intermission.
To avoid disappointment, book your place at this unique and informative event by contacting my ofce by email orange@parliament.nsw.gov.au
RSVP by close of business on Monday 24 March 2025.
Lockhart’s family has paid tribute. PHOTO: Supplied.
Philip Donato is hosting professional grant writer Keith Whelan, aka The Grants Guy in our region. PHOTO: Supplied
Celebrating our champions
FORBES sport’s night of nights is set for Saturday 8 March with the Sportsperson of the Year Awards to be announced at Club Forbes.
Australian representatives and champions feature among the nominees with sports represented from kettlebell to athletics, lawn bowls to motorbike racing.
The Forbes Sportsperson of the Year Association (SOYA) are delighted with the quality of the nominations they have received for the 2024 awards.
The Forbes SOYA is a small yet hard working committee dedicated to recognising and celebrating the accomplishments of our local sports men and women as well as administrators and o cials.
Sport is an important part of life and the awards are an opportunity to pay tribute to the athletes who excel in their chosen sport and thank and show appreciation to the many volunteers who give their time to ensure that children and adults of all
ages have access to some of the best sporting facilities and competitions in New South Wales.
The awards being contested include the Junior and Senior Sportsperson, All Rounder, Coach/Trainer, Referee/ Umpire/O cial, Administrator, Team and of course the Forbes Sportsperson and Runner Up for 2024.
The overall winner of the Central West Credit Union Monthly Achievers Award will also be announced on the night along with the President’s Award, Phillip Adams Encouragement Award, Merit Awards, School and Special Sports Awards and the Forbes Netball Association Terry Wade Award.
The calibre of the nominations received for all the awards was of a very high standard making the job of the independent judging panel extremely di cult.
The SOYA Awards would not be possible without the generous support of our local businesses, allowing Forbes to be one of the last country
towns in New South Wales who host a separate sporting awards ceremony. Presentation night is from 6pm on 8 March.
Tickets are $25 and can be purchased through 123Tix –2024 Forbes SOYA Awards.
Please purchase tickets by Friday 28 February so that catering can be nalised.
Nominees for the 2024 Awards are:
Senior Sportsperson of the Year
Harrison Corke - rugby union
Andrew Little - drag racing
Michael Little - super track racing
Haylee Redfern - kettlebell
Kailab Tyne - blackball
Junior Sportsperson of the Year
Claire Bayley - netball and squash
Isabslla Brown - all rounder
Eli Bowden-Boland – all rounder
Hayden Duggan – motorbike racing
Lockie Duggan - at track motorbike racing
Ava Dunn - athletics
Leo Dwyer – all rounder
Snow Hodder - rugby union and rugby league
Holly Hope-Hodgetts - dirt track motorbike racing
Lenny Iyer - swimming
Brooke Kelly - equestrian
Sage King - water skiing
Josie Mao Mckenzie - soccer
Mason McMillan - athletics
Oliver Northey - soccer
Mac Parry - athletics
Georgia Pengilly - all rounder
Harper Piggot - soccer and athletics
Mason Redfern - dirt track motorbike racing
Max Ridge - athletics
Annabelle Teague - lawn bowls
Team of the Year
Bedgerabong Public School relay team
Forbes Foxes men’s soccer team
Forbes Public School AFL team
Forbes rugby union U14s
Forbes U12s Hazell and Field Accounting girls
Shane and Bella Davie
Coach / Trainer of the Year
Peter Cli on
Kevin Howell
Raymond Smith
Administration
Paula Browne
Sheryn Davie
All rounder: All nominees who meet this criteria in the Junior and Senior categories are eligible for this award.
All nominees in junior, senior and all rounder categories are considered for the overall Forbes Sportsperson of the Year and runner up.
Congratulations to all nominees and the SOYA committee look forward to seeing you all, your families and the nominating sporting organisations when the 2024 winners are announced on March 8.
Councils call for greater share of Federal funds
There is a call for the Australian Government and Opposition to commit to restoring previous levels of funding for councils.
The Financial Assistance Grants provided to councils have decreased from one per cent of Commonwealth taxation revenue in 1996 to 0.5 per cent today, Chairman of the NSW Country Mayors Association Mayor Rick Firman OAM said.
He raised concerns that this falling revenue was a major contributing factor to the financial sustainability challenges that many councils in rural and regional NSW currently face and has called on the major parties to commit to restoring funding.
“Declining Commonwealth
CMA Deputy Chairman and Bega Valley Shire Mayor Cr. Russell Fitzpatrick with CMA Chairman and Temora Shire Mayor Cr. Rick Firman OAM. PHOTO: Supplied
contributions, coupled with rate pegging in NSW and increasing operating costs are making it
very difficult for councils, and particularly country councils, to continue to deliver services and infrastructure at the levels our communities need,” Cr Firman said.
CMA Deputy Chairman Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick said insufficient funding from the Australian Government hits country communities in the hip pocket.
“The inadequate FAGs situation creates large rate rises across rural and regional NSW Local Government Areas during a cost-ofliving crisis, as councils struggle to remain financially sustainable,” he said.
“While country councils know their communities are doing it tough, their operating costs have
also risen much faster than their revenue over consecutive years.”
The association has written to the Prime Minister, The Hon Anthony Albanese, and both the leader of the Opposition, Hon Peter Dutton MP and to the leader of the National Party, the Hon David Littleproud MP requesting meetings to discuss the issue.
The leaders have also been invited to address the March 28 meeting of CMA, which has a theme of financial sustainability.
Country-based councils in NSW face unique cost pressures, with many local government areas being the size of small European countries and being responsible for close to 1500km of roads.
Mayor Firman explained that
councils are required to deliver public services like administration, recreational facilities, pools, libraries and waste facilities in multiple locations in order to ensure equity of access, which increases the cost of council operations.
“In many of our 87 member council LGAs there is little or no public transport; therefore it is almost impossible to consolidate service delivery in centralised locations to cut costs,” he said.
“Our board and our members are committed to ensuring that those who choose to live and work in country NSW have the services and infrastructure available that validates that choice. It’s all about equity.”
JOSIE MCKENZIE STARRING ON THE SOCCER FIELD.
HAYDEN DUGGAN ON THE RACE TRACK.
Meet the new committee of Eugowra VIEW Club
THE Annual General Meeting of the Eugowra VIEW Club was held on 17 February at the CWA rooms.
Past President Kay Jones took the chair for the meeting.
Kay read the VIEW Mission Statement and Code of Conduct.
The new committee is as follows:
President- Irene Sharp
Vice President- Alison Cleary
Secretary- Diane Agustin
Assistant Secretary- Jeanine Gibby
Treasurer- Kay Jones
Assistant Treasurer- Irene Sharp
Learning for Life O cerCarol Blackwood
Program O cer- Helen Watchorn
Delegate- Sharon Radwick
Publicity O cer- Judy Smith
Wellness O cer- Esther Hyde
Kay thanked Bozena for setting up the room and organising the venue each month.
Also for providing co ee and cake following each meeting.
Kay congratulated the club for the great friendship given to all members and noted what a wonderful club we have.
Ros Salliard was thanked for her dedication to her role as the Learning for Life O cer.
Huge thank you to Wendy Drady for her commitment and caring as she carried out the role
of Wellness O cer.
The February monthly meeting followed the AGM. New member Margaret Broadbend was welcomed to Eugowra VIEW. Topics discussed at the meeting included:
(1) Fashion Parade- which has been planned for this year will hopefully go ahead in July (2) Markets – The committee
has o ered to run the markets again at the Murals weekend if it goes ahead.
(3) Ra e- won by Helen Watchorn
(4) Vietnam Veterans- Leading up to ANZAC Day in April it was decided that we would invite a Vietnam veteran to be our speaker at the March meeting. Geo Connors has accepted
the invitation to be that speaker. Members were asked to take along any war memorabilia they have for a table display.
(5) April meeting- would fall on Easter Monday. Members decided to cancel it.
The next meeting will be held at 12pm on Monday 17 March at the CWA rooms. - Contributed
This mothers’ day hamper is being ra led to raise funds for the Sunshine Club and Royal Far West children’s charity.
Mothers’ day raffles to support Royal Far West
ON 7 March at 10am our next monthly meeting will be taking place at our Op Shop at 11 - 13 Templar Street Forbes.
We have an extensive range of furniture in our back room.
we are accepting donations of good quality clean furniture and pick up can be arranged.
Delivery is available by arrangement through the shop.
We have two raffles running at the moment.
One prize is a three-piece bistro setting donated by Bunnings, our second is a Mothers’ Day pamper pack.
Both these raffles will be drawn on 7 May 2025.
Our ticket price is $1 each and tickets are only available from the Royal Far West op shop in Templar Street.
Our ladies summer clothes are still 50c, except evening wear which is half price.
Our birthday book for February is open and we wish you all a happy birthday: Mrs Soy, Jacko, My Other Boy, Pentin’s Tiger, Chinga’s Sister, Marko’s Glenn, Nanna’s Chick, Radar and Whopper Blossom.
Thank you to the Forbes Handicraft Centre for your kind donation, which is very much appreciated.
Take care and stay safe, Reenie
Front- Sharon Radwick and Irene Sharp
Lights and bells for Daroobalgie
There are now boom gates and ashing lights at the Daroobalgie Road rail crossing as Inland Rail takes another step towards completing works around Forbes.
The improvements are part of work to construct the passing loop on the Stockinbingal to Parkes section of Inland Rail.
Representatives of Inland Rail joined sta from contractor Martinus Rail and Forbes Shire Council deputy mayor Chris Roylance at the commissioning of the upgraded level crossing.
The previous level crossing was passive, meaning it only had a stop sign and a “look for trains” notice, but the upgraded crossing is now active, with high-intensity LED ashing lights, bells and retro-re ective boom gates, with new signage and line marking for both the rail and roadway.
The change to an active level crossing will result in an increase in safety for both motorists and pedestrians by providing clear and reliable signals when trains are approaching.
Thanks to the active crossing road users can expect smoother tra c ows as vehicles will no longer need to come to a stop at the crossing unless the lights and booms are activated.
The change to an active level
crossing was a key safety requirement to augment the new Daroobalgie Crossing Loop directly to the west of Daroobalgie Road.
Malcolm Clark, Inland Rail Project Director, Stockinbingal to Parkes, said the crossing now provided a safer way for road users to cross the rail line.
“Safety is at the heart of every-
thing we do and so the level crossing upgrade became a key part of works to construct the Daroobalgie Passing Loop,” he said.
“We have been working closely with Forbes Shire Council and the Forbes community, and I would like to express my thanks for the support we have received.
“We are close to completing this
section of S2P, demonstrating our commitment to delivering Inland Rail south of Parkes by 2027.”
Forbes deputy mayor Chris Roylance said the upgrade would improve e ciencies, especially with continuing development.
Forbes Shire Council has established its industrial centre to be readily accessible to road and rail.
The crossing was an important part of opening the northern heavy vehicle bypass to the larger heavy vehicles. The nal stage for this to take place is for Forbes Shire Council to relocate the Hoopers Road intersection away from the rail crossing to give adequate clearance.
Online registry making it easier for pet owners
Registering your pet, reporting a missing pet, and keeping track of key events in your pet’s life is now as easy as a few clicks thanks to the new and improved digital NSW Pet Registry.
Owners of microchipped cats and dogs can access the new Pet Registry with their Service NSW login and pay the registration fee online without having to visit their local council to lodge paperwork, cutting the registration time from days to just minutes.
Works begin with Newell Highway level rail crossing at Tichborne to go
Early work has started to pave the way for the removal of a railway level crossing along the Inland Rail project corridor near Parkes.
The level crossing on the Newell Highway at Tichborne will be removed and replaced using grade separation - separating the rail from the road - with a road overpass.
The Federal Government is investing $280 million and the NSW Government is contributing $70 million in the project, which will improve road and rail safety while allowing freight to be delivered faster and more reliably.
The Australian Government contribution is part of a broader $450 million commitment to grade-separating Inland Rail interfaces with
roads across NSW.
The level crossing on the Olympic Highway at Harris Gates near Illabo will also be removed as part of this work.
Geotechnical investigations, biodiversity studies and Aboriginal cultural heritage surveys of the Tichborne site and surrounds began on 12 February.
Work is due to be carried out on weekdays from 7am to 6pm until the end of March, weather permitting, with intermittent changed tra c conditions in place on the Newell Highway including stop/slow tra c movements.
A Transport for NSW spokesperson said the outcomes of these studies will help determine the location, geometry and composition
of the new bridge.
The geotechnical investigations at Tichborne will be followed by similar work at the Harris Gates intersection in coming months.
“We are working in partnership with the NSW Government to remove rail level crossings by building bridges to separate road and rail along the Inland Rail route in the state,” said Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King.
“Australia’s investment in Inland Rail is critical to help us move more freight as our population grows.
“Inland Rail can reduce our transport emissions and make our roads safer, and we are prioritising delivery of
the sections between Beveridge and Parkes in line with our independent review of the project, which was handed down in mid-2023.”
NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said the investment will improve safety at two key intersections on the Inland Rail route.
“Crashes at level crossings have the potential to cause major trauma and even fatalities, which have devastating impacts on families and local communities,” she said.
“By grade separating road and rail we will eliminate the potential of incidents at these two locations while paving the way for faster freight movements and business bene ts for regional NSW.”
The registry also provides instant online transfer of ownership, real-time email or SMS reminders for desexing, as well as making it easier to update information like change of address.
Users can also create a profile for their pet with information that could help if they go missing, including the ability to add photos and contact details.
The NSW Government says the updates support the government’s commitment to promoting responsible pet ownership and strengthen animal welfare standards.
More than 81,245 pet owners and 6,131 breeders have already registered and benefitted from the new and improved digital platform.
Microchipping and registration are compulsory in NSW for cats and dogs.
If you have adopted a cat or dog from a council pound or designated rehoming organisation they should already be microchipped and are eligible
for free registration.
It’s important for owners to make sure their information is up to date in the Pet Registry as it simplifies the process of reuniting lost pets with their owner and provides councils with accurate data about the number of animals in their area.
The fees collected from pet registrations also helps councils provide services for their community such as pound facilities.
The new Pet Registry was developed by the Office of Local Government and the Department of Customer Service and is a major upgrade from the previous registry which is more than 20 years old.
The NSW Government will continue to add further functionality to the Pet Registry as the development of the platform continues, including providing dedicated access for councils, rehoming organisations and vets.
Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said ensuring your dog or cat is microchipped and registered on the Pet Registry is not only part of being a responsible pet owner, it’s the law.
“We encourage anyone who hasn’t registered their pet or if they’re unsure if their pet is registered, to log on and check,” he said.
“Moving to an easy-touse digital platform we hope will boost registration rates in NSW.”
For more information about the NSW Pet Registry go online to https://www. petregistry.olg.nsw.gov.au/
Hundreds charged in police DV operation Medicare the winner as parties match funding pledges
POLICE have charged more than 550 people with more than 1160 o ences during a four-day state-wide operation targeting domestic and family violence.
Operation Amarok IX ran from Wednesday 19 to Saturday 22 February 2025, and involved o cers from all police area commands and police districts across NSW.
Across the four days, 569 people were arrested and charged, with 295 arrest warrants executed.
Police laid 1,162 charges and conducted 1,151 bail compliance checks and 12,382 apprehended domestic violence order (ADVO) compliance checks. There were 424 breaches identi ed.
O cers conducted 127 rearms prohibition order (FPO) searches, with 57 rearms and 25 weapons seized.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley says Operation Amarok was a clear example of the NSW Police Force’s commitment to addressing domestic and family violence, especially in regional areas.
“Operation Amarok demonstrates the dedication of police in tackling domestic and family violence and sends a strong message that this sickening behaviour will
Open
the gateway: Construction begins on new service centre
CONSTRUCTION on a state-ofthe-art service centre, located within the Parkes Special Activation Precinct (SAP) along the new Newell Highway bypass, has begun.
The news was announced following a sod-turn ceremony on the site of what will be the BP Highway Service Centre at the junction of the new bypass and Henry Parkes Way (Condobolin Road), to the west of the new roundabout.
The development by the Stevens Group, in partnership with Parkes Shire Council and the NSW Government’s Regional Growth Development Corporation (RGDC), is also located at the Parkes SAP’s northern gateway that will connect the precinct with the Parkes town centre and Newell Highway.
never be tolerated,” Minister Catley said.
“Last year alone, police received almost 150,000 calls for help for domestic and family violence related matters, this shows the gravity of the situation and the extensive police resources required to combat it.”
Domestic and Family Violence Corporate Sponsor, Assistant Commissioner Peter Mckenna, said the strategy behind Operation Amarok was working.
“Amarok elevates our focus on those high-risk o enders who pose a signi cant threat to victims, family members, and other members of the community,” Assistant Commissioner Mckenna said.
“While police will continue the tactics employed by our high-risk o ender teams to target these people and support victims, we all have a part to play in stopping this senseless crime.”
Signi cant arrests in our region included in Dubbo.
A 40-year-old man is facing drug and weapon charges after police attended a home on Georges Terrace Dubbo in relation to an alleged AVO breach.
During a search, o cers seized two ri es, methylamphetamine, and heroin.
Police executed a warrant at the premises seizing further items including, two gel blaster rearms, a cross bow and cash.
While being escorted to the caged police vehicle, the man allegedly spat at o cers. He was taken to Dubbo Police Station and charged with 14 o ences including contravene prohibition/ restriction in AVO (DV), hinder or resist police o cer in the execution of duty, assault police o cer in execution of duty, four counts of acquire etc rearm - subject to prohibition order, acquire etc ammunition subject to prohibition order, use prohibited weapon contrary to prohibition order and drug-related o ences.
The man was formally refused bail to face Dubbo court in April.
Police seized 14 cannabis plants a er attending a home on Taylor Street for a FPO compliance check. A 47-year-old man was served with a Field Court Attendance Notice for possess prohibited plant more than small and less than indictable quantity to appear at Dubbo Local Court on Wednesday 26 March 2025.
Police allegedly located and seized 5.8 grams of methylamphetamine, 0.5 grams of heroin and 2.9 grams of cannabis a er a
FPO compliance check on Leavers Street, Dubbo. The substances will under go forensic examination.
A 48-year-old man was arrested and taken to Dubbo Police Station, where he was charged with supply prohibited drug more than indictable and less than commercial quantity and two counts of possess prohibited drug.
He was refused bail to face court in April.
Important contacts:
Victims of domestic and family violence can nd information about support services by contacting 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or visiting: https:// www.1800respect.org.au
Reports of domestic and familyrelated crime or abuse can be made by contacting or attending your local police station. In an emergency, contact Triple Zero (000).
Anyone with information relating to domestic and family-related violence is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com. au. Information is treated in strict con dence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
By TESS IKONOMOU AND ADRIAN BLACK FOR AAP
Billions of dollars will be poured into Medicare no matter who wins government, with the coalition promising to match Labor’s landmark spending pledge on health care.
Peter Dutton and opposition health spokeswoman Anne Ruston say a coalition government will provide an “historic” $9 billion, including an already announced plan to boost mental health by $500 million.
“By absolutely every measure, the Albanese government has failed Australians on health,” Senator Ruston said on Sunday.
“Every Australian knows that it’s harder and more expensive to see a GP.”
The opposition called on Labor to match its commitment to mental health support.
Senator Ruston said the coalition wouldn’t stand in the way of Labor’s $8.5 billion promise to boost health funding, which she described as a clean-up on a “mess” they created.
While the cost of living is the most pressing issue for voters, health care is also highly ranked as a priority.
In a speech in Launceston on Sunday, Anthony Albanese unveiled Labor’s centrepiece election promise for the unprecedented expansion of Medicare.
The prime minister said his government wants nine out of 10 visits to the GP to be free by the end of the decade.
“That’s an ambitious goal but people deserve ambition from their government on Medicare,” he said.
“Because just as every Australian wants the best possible health care for their family, our government wants the best possible health care for every Australian.”
Mr Albanese said Labor wanted to deliver on the “true promise and purpose” of Medicare.
“If the Australian people entrust our Labor government with a second term, a single, straightforward objective will be the foundation of our health policy,” he said.
A federal election is due by May 17.
Fewer GP clinics have been taking on bulkbilled patients as they struggle to keep up with rising operational costs and increasing service complexity.
Australian Medical Association president Danielle McMullen said in some parts of the nation there would be a shift in the rates of no out-of-pocket consultations, while other parts would see no difference.
“I do hope this will make a difference in rural and regional communities and in our areas of socio-economic disadvantage, where GP’s have been really trying as hard as they can to keep those costs down,” she said.
Mr Albanese said every GP practice would be offered a new incentive payment to bulk bill.
This would provide about 4800 practices across Australia with the security they needed to bulk-bill every visit, he said.
The rst stage of the project commenced construction in late 2024, with bulk earthworks, servicing and road infrastructure underway.
Once complete the Highway Service Centre will be anchored by BP with a convenience store, truck drivers lounge with showers, laundry and diner, and 26 heavy vehicle parking spaces to provide a much needed rest stop on this signi cant transport route.
Stage 1 of the northern gateway is set to coincide with the completion of the bypass in mid 2025.
“Wednesday’s modest sod-
turning ceremony belies the signi cance of this crucial development,” Mayor of Parkes Shire Neil Westcott said.
“This project is more than just a service centre; it serves as the gateway to the heart of national logistics and the Parkes Special Activation Precinct.
“We are thrilled to partner with esteemed developers like the Stevens Group and BP, whose involvement underscores the quality and national importance of this site.
“This development will not only serve the Newell Highway but also the expansive 4700-hectare Eco-industrial Special Activation Precinct.”
Along with the service centre, the northern gateway will include a future fast food, commercial and business park.
“Stevens Group is very proud to be part of the Parkes Special Activation Precinct. It is fantastic to see progress on-site on a project we have been working on for many years,” said Development Director of the Stevens Group Jason Capuano.
“This rst stage of the 20ha Parkes Gateway Precinct will be a state-of-the-art Highway Service Centre that will provide much needed infrastructure to service the Parkes SAP and heavy vehicles using the Newell Highway.
“Future stages will provide a
great opportunity for industrial and trade retail businesses to be located closer to their customers.”
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said the Newell Highway is the longest and one of the busiest transport routes in regional NSW and that tra c brings opportunities for further growth and investment in the Parkes region.
Special Activation Precincts are part of the $4.2 billion Snowy Hydro Legacy Fund, dedicated to major and transformative infrastructure projects that will bene t regional NSW.
For more information on the precinct visit www.nsw.gov.au/ parkessap
A GP training program, which would start next year, would be the biggest in Australian history and deliver another 2000 new GPs annually.
Under the health care commitment, 400 new scholarships for nurses and midwives would be created.
Health Minister Mark Butler said the modelling done on the policy showed there would be 20 million additional free visits to the doctor.
Australia’s bulk-billing rate plummeted to 20.7 per cent at the start of 2025, down from 35.7 per cent two years earlier, according to data released by health care directory Cleanbill in January.
Royal Australian College of GPs president Michael Wright backed Labor’s workforce commitment but warned not everyone would be bulk billed as patient rebates were still too low to cover the cost of care.
Managing Director Stevens Group Brett Harrod, Parkes Mayor Neil Westcott, Joanne Harvey from BP Australia, Director of Parkes and Moree SAPs Troy Anderson from Regional Growth NSW Development Corporation, and Development Director Stevens Group Jason Capuano, at the sod ceremony.
The smiling faces of picnic races
The 2025 Bedgerabong Picnic Race day is one to remember for all the right reasons.
A bumper crowd enjoyed cool but sunny weather on course, and The Alternators taking the party into the evening once the races were done.
Fashions on the Field, always impressive, were very competitive this year.
On the track, it was Brazilian born jockey Leandro Ribeiro and Dubbo trainer Connie Greig who combined to win the $11,000 Total Wear Solutions Bedgerabong Picnic Cup before a crowd of over 1,800.
On the immaculate turf track, Laisvas tracked the leader Namarari then swept to the front before the home turn and won the 1400 metres Cup by more than ve lengths from Media Chick (Zara Lewis, $5.50) and Stateswoman (Arthur Pollock, $2 favourite).
Local Best Dressed Lady Kathryn Blackstock with Tricia Trim.
Kaitlin Maloney, Chloe Horne and Annabelle Hain.
Hunter, Rebecca and Sopia Keat.
Tom Puckeridge, Jack McLaughlin, Patty Keady and Murdoch Geddes.
Tayla Lennon, Laura Kirk and Charlotte Selmes.
Georgia Jinders, Kylie Ross and Thomas Nightingale enjoying a great day trackside.
Lillian and Simone Rodgers came back to Bedgerabong for the race weekend.
Meet Our Captains, Leaders & Kindies 2025
Forbes Public School
Captains, Leaders & Kindies
Forbes Public School Representative Council with Stage 3 Teachers: Mr Tyack, Miss Kelly and Principal Ms Staples Back: Jack Pointon, Arlie Gunn, Lucy Rout, Lucy Webb, Jett Smith, Nellie Collits, Lily Ball, Julian Butler. Front: Ruby Lidster, Stella Morris, Ella-Rose
Back: Miss Jones, Harry Duncan, Amelia Dunn, Pip Thompson, Naomi Reid, Aurora Maguire, Layla Hodge, Charlie McConnell, Miss South. Front: Blair Martin, Wilder Welsh, Darcy Bray, Wyatt Newham, Auri Zuliani, Dean Markham, Ashton Sayers
KJ
Back: Mr Avis, Shelby Newcombe, Reggie Kelly, Harper Rath, Boston Graff, Trace Gaffney, Aylah Cole, Vaya Greenway, Mrs Jack. Front: Oakleigh Staines, Hudson Skinner, Huxley Radburn, Ryder Kelly, August Boon, Samantha Cogswell, Frankie Henley-Bennett
Back: Jodi Bembrick, Millie walker, Banjo Penney, Vivienne Tuimaunei, Lincoln Rath, Hunter Keat, Quinn McAvoy, Gloria Cran, Koa Towney, Ms Garlick, Mrs Halls. Front: Eva Linsdell, Harry Coulthurst, Octavia Morris, Lori Sheldrick, Tennessee Lenane, Jake Wren
Captains, Leaders & Kindies
Eugowra Public School
Captains, Leaders & Kindies
Eugowra Public School students have been eager to start back at school for 2025. All students have settled into the new school year smoothly and are keen for another year of experiences and opportunities to learn and grow.
This year we welcome 6 Kindergarten students. We are thrilled to have them as part of our school community and know that they will thrive in our caring, supportive and close-knit environment.
Our School Captain and House Captains were announced at our 2024 End of Year Presentation Night, and will be recognised at an upcoming induction ceremony, where they
As leaders, they have many responsibilities to fulfil such as: raising and lowering the Australian Flag each day, setting up and coordinating fitness sessions and leading school assemblies, among other responsibilities.
Our staff this year includes: Mrs Carmel Doyle as Principal, Mrs Mel Adams as Assistant Principal Curriculum and Instruction, Mrs Lou O’Brien and Ms Sonia Dalla Vecchia on the Infants class, and Mrs Cath Welsh and Mrs Kylie Parker on the Primary class and Mrs Sam Hassapladakis works across K-6.
We know that all our Year 6 leaders will undertake their roles
CAPTAINS (L-R)
Amity McMahon—School Captain
Falisha Evans—Red House Captain
Aiden McMahon—Green House Captain
Jacob Turner—Blue House Captain
Mrs Donna Maclean, Mrs Rachel Miles and Mrs Ashlee Newell continue in their School Learning Support Officer’s roles, Mr Tony Wakeling continues as our General Assistant and Mrs Kylie Reeves continues as our School Administrative Manager for 2025.
KINDIES (L-R)
Alayla Osborne, Molly Miles, Maddisyn Duffy, Sidney Welsh, Chicago Henry, Edward Noble
• Smaller classes
• Caring & committed sta
• Academic Excellence & Sport Opportunities
• Providing opportunities for gi ed & talented students
• The latest in Technology equipment
• 9 acres of irrigated grass area with Tennis, Basketball, Netball & Cricket Facilities
• Fostering initiative & responsibility
School Captains
Captains (L-R): Harry Bilsborough
Forbes North Public School
Captains, Leaders & Kindies
KINDY PINK - WELCOME:
Annika, Amelia, Logan, Annabelle, Molly, Abbi, Blair, Elijah, Audrey, Francesca and Josie.
Kindy Pink, is taught by Miss McMillan and supported by SLSO Mrs Vicki Smart.
Forbes North Public School
“Quality Teaching in a Safe and Caring Environment”
T: (02) 6852 2187 E: forbesnth-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au
• A positive school culture where parents feel welcome
• A focus on student wellbeing and learning through explicit programs.
• Targeted Literacy and Numeracy Programs across the school.
• An inclusive culture based on collaboration and connections.
• Expert teachers achieving high quality, explicit learning programs.
• Learning and support and ensure that every student is know, valued and cared for.
High School Captains
Captains, Leaders & Kindies
Parkes Christian School
Primary School Captains
2025 High School Captains (Left to Right): Oliver Mayo (Vice-Captain), Angelique Bland (Vice-Captain), Chloe Amery (Captain), Joshua King (Captain)
High School House Captains
2025 High School House Captains (Left to Right): Oliver Mayo, Ruby Wilson, Lachlan Unger
2025 Primary School Captains (Left to Right): Ben Westcott (Vice-Captain), Madeline McCutcheon (Vice-Captain), Zoe Amery (Captain), Henry Unger (Captain) Primary House Captains
2025 Primary House Captains (Left to Right): Hudson Field, Louis Farrell, Elodie Ballantyne, Chelsea Ray, Sophie Pearce, Abby McIntyre, Maddison-Ivy Hartwig
Kindergarten Class Photo (Front L-R): Mrs Melissa Richards (Teachers Aide), Hudson Green, Bethany Watt, Layla Turner, Finley Wright, Adeline Taberner, Billie Lee, Chloe Arnott, Joseph Boyd, Lyanna Davis, Sahara Hourigan, Cooper McConnell, Mrs Melanie Hodge (Teachers Aide). (Back L-R) Mrs Emilie Grover (Teacher), Reginald Ward, Judah Howarth, Connor Dodgson, Flynn BarnettSmith, Emilia Jones, Heidi Oksbjerg, Chas Harris, Ciella Willersdorf, Eden Mann, Edison Watts, Clay Nyman, Tygar Wallace, Peter Sellers, Mrs Annette Moss (Teacher).
New Staff (Front L-R): Stacy Barton (Teachers Aide), Emilie Grover (Kindergarten Teacher), Olya Rose (Year 1 Teacher), Jenna Field (Teachers Aide). (Back L-R) Sarah Westerway (Primary RFF), Emma Brown (Librarian), Erika Muller (Geography / Language - High School Teacher), Kate Harding (Year 2 Teacher).
AtBedgerabong School we value community and tradition. Our school has enjoyed almost 150 years of community engagement and support as the generations of students enrol and graduate. We are so excited to welcome our 2025 Kindergarten studentsJeremy Cole and Brock Zerafa to our school family and wish them all best as they start their journey through ‘big school’.
2025 also brings a new leadership group top our school. Congratulations to Hunter Maxwell and Georgia Pengilly on being announced as our School Captains and to Xavier Murru, Abri Schwartz and Heidi Symonds as School Leaders. We have every confidence that this group will rise to the heights of
Bedgerabong Public School
Captains, Leaders & Kindies
success of previous leadership groups. There’s always something happening at Bedgerabong Public School. If the kids aren’t utilising the structured playground, then you might find them playing soccer or footy on the manicured playing fields, jumping on the trampolines, having a hit of tennis or pickle ball on the courts, playing in the cubbyhouse or even taking the challenge of the new BMX bike track… and that’s just in their breaks. There’s also action aplenty in the classrooms with 2 fulltime classes dedicated to providing the best learning environment possible. Challenging literacy and maths sessions, exciting and stimulating science, history and wellbeing programs along with a highly successful marimba music
Our 2025 Leaders
program. If that’s not enough there’s also our Kitchen Garden program that we call Tootie Fruity which sees the kids heading to the vegie gardens and then to the kitchen every Thursday to prepare a shared meal for everyone at lunch.
Community Connections, our weekly playgroup session, continues every Thursday from 9.30−11.00am for 0−5 yr olds and we welcome anyone who would like to visit and participate in the planned activities or just join us for a cuppa.
You may have seen that we promote a student welfare program based on FISH! And wondered “what’s that all about?” Well our FISH ! philosophy helps us to maintain a focus on our core
L-R : Xavier Murru, Abri Schwartz, Hunter Maxwell (Captain), Heidi Symonds, Georgia Pengilly (Captain)
values of good manners, respect and responsibility.
FISH! Continues to be at the core of everything that we do at Bedgerabong. In essence, it’s four core beliefsChoose Your Attitude, Be There, Make Someone’s Day and Play- help us to remember that life can be pretty wonderful if we try to treat others the way we like to be treated.
Our 2025 Kindies L-R: Brock Zerafa and Jeremy Cole
Bedgerabong School is blessed to have the support of such and active and positive community, assisting the school staff to support the students to achieve their best in whatever they choose. We look forward to sharing the kids’ achievements with you over the next 12 months. Bedgerabong Public School
Developing the whole child though:
• Small class sizes
• Focusing on the basics
• Providing individual programs catering for the needs of all students
• Sporting & cultural initiatives and integration of technology in class programs
• Promoting community spirit
Phone: 6857 1185
Fax: 6857 1118
Email: bedgerebon-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au
High School
Forbes High School would like to warmly welcome the new cohort of Year 7’s, the Class of 2030. While the transition from primary to secondary school can be daunting, these students have embraced this change with a positive mindset.
Our 2025 Student Leaders
StJoseph’s Catholic Primary School Eugowra staff and students have begun their new school year with great enthusiasm and happy faces.
This year we have welcomed seven new kindergarten students to our school, one child in Year 1, and one child in Year 3. The children and their families had a wonderful first week being introduced to their new school surrounds and making new friends. Our School Captains; Sam and Zac officially welcomed everyone to the start of the new school year.
Under the guidance of Principal Cathy Eppelstun, students have 3 full time
classroom teachers, a music teacher, a support teacher and 3 teachers aides.
The kindergarten students are enjoying the first five weeks of the program ‘Ready for Learning’. This program involves occupational therapy activities to promote core strength, correct pencil grip and body awareness. They are also learning mindfulness to calm their bodies and brains to be ready to settle into the work program of learning sounds, basic number facts and the world around them. To start the morning each day all of our students spend 20 minutes enjoying the Ten Gems for the brain exercises to warm up their bodies and brains ready
Our Kindies 2025
Captains, Leaders & Kindies
for work during the day.
The whole school is focusing on the ‘Zones of Regulation’. This will empower learners of all ages to understand the full range of their feelings, as well as explore tools and strategies to support their well-being. Our students are fortunate to be part of a small rural community and yet be exposed to a wide range of activities that enable learning through intensive numeracy and literacy, geography and historical subjects, sport, music and cultural activities, all while being an important part of the Eugowra Community. The school also runs special educational programs to cater
St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School
for individual student needs.
St Joseph’s staff are a talented and united team that work together for the best interest of the children and their education and happiness.
Students are able to attend Homework Club from Monday to Thursday from 3.15−5.30pm. This was an initiative that began as a way to help families rebuild after the 2022 floods, but has been so well received, that we have secured funding to continue to offer this to families in 2025.
We look forward to smooth sailing this year where learning, growing and hard work will help us achieve wonderful things in 2025.
School & Sports Captains 2025
St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School
Learning with Love and Truth through Christ Spiritual Development in a caring Christian Community Inclusive di erentiated education programs
Cultural and sporting opportunities
Integrated technology in all areas
Large, spacious irrigated grounds & sun protected play equipment
“A wonderful environment for children to learn, grow and develop through Christ’s love” Phone Cathy Eppelstun, Principal - 6859 2485
Back: Mrs Nadin Middle Row: Mrs Haynes (TA) Thomas, Isabelle, Theodore, Hazel, Mrs Ziser Front Row: Willa, Isabella
Back: Kateyln McMillan, Indianna Patullo Front Row: Samuel Moxey, Zac Ziser
4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30
6.00 9News. 7.00 A
Affair. 7.30 David Attenborough’s Mammals. 8.40 MOVIE: Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard. (2021) Ryan Reynolds, Salma Hayek, Samuel L. Jackson. 11.00 MOVIE: Lions For Lambs. (2007) 12.45 Pointless. 1.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 Angel. 3.00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success. 3.50 The Goldbergs. 4.20 Bondi Vet. 5.20 Britain’s Got Talent. 7.00 MOVIE: Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation. (2018) 9.00 MOVIE: Romancing The
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. 12.00 Days Of Our Lives.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Better Homes. 3.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 5.00 Horse Racing. Verry Elleegant Stakes Day and Australian Guineas Day. 6.00 Dog Patrol. 6.30 Bondi Vet. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 10.30 I Escaped To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.15 ER. 3.00 Doctor Who. 3.45 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. 4.30 MythBusters. 5.20 Love Your Garden. 6.10 George Clarke’s Adventures In Americana. 7.00 Spicks And Specks. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Guy Mont
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Verry Elleegant Stakes Day and Australian Guineas Day. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 7.30 MOVIE: The Bourne Legacy. (2012) Jeremy Renner, Rachel Weisz. 10.15 MOVIE: Green Zone. (2010) Matt Damon. 12.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Motor Racing. Night Thunder. High Limits World Tour. Night Grand Final. Replay. 4.00 Carnage. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 Aussie Salvage Squad. 8.30 Heavy Tow Truckers Down Under. 9.30 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 10.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Death In Paradise. 1.30 Optics. 2.00 Under The Vines. 2.45 Extraordinary Escapes. 3.35 The Role Of A Lifetime. 4.30 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. 5.30 Landline. 6.00 Australian Story. 6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras 2025. 10.30 The Newsreader. 11.25 Unforgotten. 12.15 Rage. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 3.30 Tiddler. 3.55 Kids’ Programs. 5.10 Thomas. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.30 Kids
Bunkers.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success. 12.20 The Goldbergs. 12.50 Dream Home. 2.20 Holey Moley Australia. 3.50 Britain’s Got Talent. 5.30 MOVIE: Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation. (2018) 7.30 MOVIE: Back To The Future Part III. (1990) 10.00 MOVIE: Gunpowder Milkshake. (2021) 12.20 Late Programs.
6.00
To Istanbul. 4.15 Extraordinary Escapes. 5.00 This Is Going To Be Big. 6.00 Antiques Roadshow. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. 8.30 The Newsreader. 9.25 Love Me.
Seven News. 7.00 Australian Idol. 8.40 The Hunters. 10.15 Murder In The Outback: The Falconio And Lees Mystery. 11.15 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 DVine Living. 11.00 I Escaped To The Country. 12.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Cities Of The Underworld. 3.30 Steam Train Journeys. 4.30 I Escaped To The Country. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Rosemary & Thyme. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 Extreme Railways. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Merv Hughes Fishing. 2.30 Al McGlashan’s Fish’n With Mates. 3.00 Mark Berg’s Fishing Addiction. 4.00 Motor MythBusters. 5.00 Hustle & Tow. 6.00 Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: Die Hard: With A Vengeance. (1995) 11.10 MOVIE: Surrogates. (2009) 1.10 Late Programs.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Try to say as little as possible about the work you’re doing through the end of the month. Then you can make your announcement and accept your well-deserved plaudits.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) A more difficult challenge than you expected emerges early in the week. But with your strong Taurean determination, you should be able to deal with it successfully by week’s end.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Before you act on your “feelings” about an upcoming decision, it might be wise to do a little factchecking first. You could be very much surprised by what you don’t find.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A recent workplace success can open some doors that were previously closed to you. On a personal level, expect to receive some important news from a longtime friend and colleague.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 My Way. 1.00 Let’s Eat With George. 1.30 Your Next Cruise. 2.00 Bondi Vet. 3.00 David Attenborough’s Mammals. 4.00 Cherie Barber’s Tiny Home. New. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Space Invaders. 8.30 MOVIE: Legally Blonde. (2001) Reese Witherspoon, Luke Wilson. 10.30 MOVIE: Magic Mike’s Last Dance. (2023) 12.40 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 12.35 MOVIE: Lease Of Life. (1954) 2.35 MOVIE: Trapeze. (1956) 4.45 Rugby Union. Super W. Round 1. Western Force v Brumbies. 7.00 Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. Round 3. Western Force v Queensland Reds. 9.30 Super Rugby Pacific Post-Match. 9.45 MOVIE: The Mechanic. (1972) 11.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Rugby League. Women’s International Test. Australia v England. 3.00 NRL Sunday Footy: Las Vegas Pre-Show. 3.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 1. Penrith Panthers v Cronulla Sharks. 5.30 NRL Sunday Footy: Las Vegas Post-Match. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Married At First Sight. 8.45 60 Minutes. 9.45 9News Late. 10.15 See No Evil. 11.15 The First 48. 12.05 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 12.30 Farm To Fork. 1.00 10 Minute Kitchen. 1.30 Frugal Foodie. 2.00 4x4 Adventures. 3.00 What’s Up Down Under. 3.30 Roads Less Travelled. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 Good Chef Bad Chef. 5.00 10 News First. 6.30 The Dog House Australia. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. 8.30 Gogglebox Australia. 9.30 Matlock.
6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Get Clever. 10.00 Holey Moley Australia. 11.30 Dream Home. 1.00 Home And Away. 4.00 TBA. 5.40 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. 6.30 Puppy School. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. 10.30 Bones. 12.30 The Blacklist. 1.30 Ordinary Joe. 2.30 9-1-1: Lone Star. 6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Are You RV Safe? 11.00 Luxury Escapes. 11.30 Buy To Build. 12.00 Australian Survivor. 1.30 Cook With Luke. 2.00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield. 2.30 Basketball. NBL
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00 Turning Point. 9.30 TV Shop. 10.00 Getaway. 10.30 My Favorite Martian. 11.00 Skippy. 11.30 Avengers. 12.30 MOVIE: She’ll Have To Go. (1962) 2.30 MOVIE: The Lone Gun. (1954) 4.00 MOVIE: The Horse Soldiers. (1959) 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: Gran Torino. (2008) 10.55 The Closer. 11.55 Late Programs.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) Put your wounded pride aside and do what you must to heal a misunderstanding, before it can take a potentially irreversible turn and leave you regretting the loss of a good friend.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) One way to kick a lessthan-active social life into high gear or rebuild an outdated Rolodex file is to throw one of your well-organized get-togethers for friends and associates.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Getting out of an obligation you didn’t really want to take on can be tricky. An honest explanation of the circumstances can help. Next time, pay more attention to your usually keen instincts.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Use your Scorpion logic to push for a no-nonsense approach to a perplexing situation. This could help keep present and potential problems from creating more confusion.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A friend’s problem might take more time than you wish to give. But staying with it once again proves the depth of your Sagittarian friendship and loyalty.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) The Sea Goat can benefit from an extra dose of self-confidence to unsettle your detractors, giving you the advantage of putting on a strong presentation of your position.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) You might want to ask a friend or relative for advice on an ongoing personal matter. But be careful not to give away information that you might later wish you had kept secret.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Use the weekend for a creativity break to help restore your spiritual energy. Once this is done, you’ll be back and more than ready to tackle whatever challenge you need to face.
Homegrown Parkes to be the best yet
By MARG APPLEBEE
CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE
We are so thrilled to have 50 applications for stallholders and food vendors registered for Homegrown Parkes.
Our Homegrown Parkes event on Saturday, 29 March is shaping up to be the best Homegrown Parkes event ever!
I look forward to sharing some exciting news shortly on some new inclusions for the event.
There have been many requests for fresh produce.
In addition to Crop Swap, we will welcome back Troy from Neurea Valley Produce with his fresh veggies that were a fantastic hit at our October event and Chris from Hills of Fire Flora with beautiful proteas and Leucadendron.
We are always looking at new ways to share the same fabulous event, but still looking at fun and educational additions for our events.
We are pleased to welcome some new stallholders this year. Some local, some regional.
Our food vendors just about cover every type of request for brekky, morning tea and lunch….
and something to take home for afternoon tea.
This will be an opportunity for local and regional businesses who are processing, repurposing, sewing, propagating or producing fab-
ulous local products to share their skill and products.
Applications are reviewed by our Homegrown Parkes Committee to ensure that they t with the ethos of Homegrown Parkes.
We have switched up the program slightly, but the good news is that we still have fabulous inclusions.
All this with the intent of highlighting processes for using locally
produced food and products with the aim of encouraging locals to have a go and grow in their own backyard, your cupboard or your porch and make it yourself.
We want to keep these demonstrations and workshops as short, informative and entertaining as possible, so if there is a demonstration that you would like to see, make sure that you provide feedback a er the event.
The Homegrown Parkes Committee, made up of members of Central West Lachlan Landcare, Parkes Community Arts and Parkes Shire Council contributors, are looking forward to delivering two fabulous, encouraging and inspirational events in 2025.
Make sure that you put Saturday, 29 March in your calendar and join us at Cooke Park!
Bring your shopping bags, bring cash, bring your cards and invite your friends to share in the free entertainment, good regional food and produce and share in some of our learning opportunities.
For further information on this article, please go to www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org, twitter, facebook or Instagram @cwllandcare
Extra heavyweights $3 better selling to $288 at this week’s Forbes sale
CATTLE SALE
Monday, 24 February
Yarding 1463 (up 318)
Numbers li ed this sale with agents yarding 1463 head.
Quality continues to be mixed but fair with some excellent lines of well bred cattle o ered along with the secondary types.
The usual buyers were present and competing in a rm to dearer market.
Yearling steers held rm with heavyweights to processors selling from 341 to 358c/ kg.
Plainer types to feed ranged in price from 320 to 400c/kg.
The heifer portion was 8 to 10c/kg better.
Those to feed sold from 270 to 365c/kg for medium and heavyweights. Processors paid from 290 to 340c/kg for better types.
Heavy steers and bullocks reached 355c/kg. Grown heifers jumped to receive 395 to 340c/kg.
Cows were the biggest mover li ing 25c/kg.
Heavy 2 score from 270 to 318c and 3 score 300 to 345c/ kg. The best heavy bull reached 311c/kg.
SHEEP SALE Tuesday, 25 February
Yarding 39,850 (up 4950) Numbers li ed this sale with lamb showing the increase.
There was 26650 lambs penned and quality was similar to that of the previous sales.
There was a good o ering of heavy and extra heavyweights penned along with some large lines of store lambs.
The usual buyers were present and competing along with restockers in a rm to dearer market that once again uctuated with quality on o er.
Light store lambs to restockers sold from $120 to $164/head.
Trade weights lambs 2024kg sold from $153 to $210/ head.
Heavy lambs to 26kg received from $193 to $227/ head.
Extra heavyweights were
$3 better selling from $221 to $288/head.
Carcase prices averaged 805 to 834c/kg.
Mutton quality continues to be mixed with Merinos making up the majority of the yarding.
Prices remained strong with Merino ewes selling from $71 to $185/head. Crossbreds received from $75 to $187 and Dorper ewes reached $162/head. Merino wethers sold from $77 to $166/head.
FROM MLA’S NATIONAL
forbeslivestock.com.au
Email us info@forbeslivestock.com.au Phone us 02 6852 2299
head.
PHOTO: File
Stacey Barton of Capped Cakes and Casey Miles of Dirty Gloves Nursery at the March 2024 Homegrown Parkes event. PHOTO: Supplied
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
1 Name a strong synthetic polyester fibre, resistant to creases (6)
7 What is a symbolic narrative (8)
8 Name an Austrian-born US film director, Billy ... (6)
9 Which preparation is used for beautifying the complexion (8)
10 What is a book size of sheets to form eight leaves (6)
11 Which object is supposed to possess occult powers (8)
14 What is a three-wheeler (8)
18 Which term describes persons of the English race (6)
19 To be decapitated, is to be what (8)
21 Salem is the capital of which of the United States (6)
22 What is a grubscrew also called (8)
23 An indigene is also known as a what (6)
DOWN
1 What is the temperature at which a given sample of air will have a relative humidity of 100 per cent (8)
2 What is said to excite the anger of a bull (3,3)
3 Name an alternative term for a drug (8)
4 What does a beggar seek (4)
5 What are some of the herons called (6)
6 Which Russian vehicle is drawn by a team of three horses abreast (6)
12 When one feels tired, one does what (4,4)
13 What is an absurdity known as (8)
15 Which term describes bailiffs (6)
E-QUATIONS 7
16 Edam is a type of what (6)
Letters have a number value
E-QUATIONS
Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
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 Name the manager of a shearing team (6)
20 What is a flattened, deep-bodied, spiny-rayed, marine food fish (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 TRANSLUCENT
(a) Shining through (b) Of short duration (c) Leaping or passing across
2 WARRIGAL
(a) A wizard (b) The dingo (c) A maze of narrow passages
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:
Chopped straw (5)
Divide into four parts (7)
In pursuit (5)
IOC code: Portugal (3)
Keenly edged (5)
Made a mistake (5)
Mineral spring (3)
Pool stick (3)
Small bird (7)
Supplied nourishment (3)
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
2 Bedroom unit A/C, Carport, Laundry References are necessary Call Brian 0447 274 627
Lachlan Valley Rams
White Su olk and Poll Dorset Rams for sale
Good Lamplan gures, Bruco free, Gudair vacc. Alan Sharrock 0427 511 397 or agsharrock@gmail.com
Wanted to buy ANY pre1990 cars
Toyota Landcruisers, Volkswagens, Landrovers, Holdens, Fords, Valiants, Porsche, Commodores, old trucks etc. any condition, restored, unrestored or parts. CASH PAID Call - 0421 313 536
LOCKHART, Alison.
Since the passing of my dear wife Alison Lockhart on 12th January, 2025. I have received so many lovely sympathy cards and messages from a multitude of people, friends and acquaintances. So many kind neighbours have called at the house with very acceptable gi s of food in many di erent forms. Thank you so much.
I still miss Alison so very much but you are all making life more acceptable. Thanks again.
~ Alister Lockhart
1st 2nd 3rd
SSAA news and results: Perfect scores in fly target shoot
By TONY BRATTON
MEMBERS are reminded the Annual General meeting for the S.S.A.A will be on Wednesday 12 March 2025 at the Forbes Sport & Rec club starting at 8pm.
Results of the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre rimre ri e shoot on Wednesday 19 February 2025.
25metre Fly target shoot were: John Dean, 200/200; Lionel Redfern, 200/200; David McCue, 200/200; Bruce Dent, 199/200; Lyall Strudwick, 196/200; Jennie Carpenter, 192/200; David Sanderson, 192/200; Doug Shead, 192/200; Bruce Runchel, 187/200 and David Coleman, 183/200.
50metre Fly target: David Mc-
Cue, 99/100; John Dean, 95/100; Lionel Redfern, 90/100; Bruce Dent, 88/100; Lyall Studwick, 88/100; Jennie Carpenter, 87/100; Doug Shead, 86/100; David Sanderson, 83/100 and David Coleman, 82/100.
75metre Bear target: David McCue, 114/120; Bruce Dent, 111/120; John Dean, 107/120; Lyall Studwick, 103/120; Lionel Redfern, 98/120; Doug Shead, 98/120 and David Coleman, 81/120.
100metre Deer target: David McCue, 110/120; Doug Shead, 107/120; Lyall Studwick, 106/120; Bruce Dent, 104/120; Lionel Redfern, 88/120 and David Sanderson, 78/120.
The weather was warm with light breeze from the south west at 8kph and a temperature of 30 degrees.
The range o cers were Norm Brook and David Coleman.
Scorer was Norm Brook.
The next S.S.A.A. sporting shooters .22 calibre and other rim re rie (.22 magnum or.17HMR).
The next Sunday shoot will be on Sunday 2 March 2025, starting at 10am.
The Centre- re ri e shoots start at 2pm a er the Rim- re shoots on Sunday, names in by 1-30pm, so the targets can be placed on the Centrere range.
The next Wednesday shoot will be on Wednesday 5 March 2025, starting at 2pm.
All events are at the Bedgerebong road range, turn right o the Bedgerebong road onto Dr. Young Drive.
All target shooters are welcome to attend these shoots.
Any person wishing to try Rim-
re or Centre- re ri e or shotgun shooting can attend any of these shoots to take part a er lling out a P650 form at the club, Junior shooters must be 12 years or over.
For all information on .22 cabilre rim re shooting contact: Wayne Facey (Mobile 0414524059). Norm Brook mobile 0458664541; Ben Smith (mobile 0427524151); David Coleman (Mobile 0427401263):
The next shoot for the Forbes S.S.A.A. sporting clay’s will be for the Cli Bradley Memorial D.T.L. 25Target piont score, followed by a 72target eld shoot on Sunday 9 March 2025 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 rearm licence can contact Wayne Facey on 0414524059; Norm Brook on 0458664541; Tony Bratton on (02) 68523349 to do a rearm safe shooting assessment course which is a requirement for a rearm licence application.
Members are reminded that Local Range rules apply to the Forbes SSAA range.
Like us on facebook @ Forbes sporting Shooters. SSAA members should 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.
Bowls competitions heat up
LAWN BOWLS
By TARA SHAW
WHAT a weekend for bowls: Pennants at Parkes Railway Bowling Club, Major Pairs continue and Major Singles kicking o . Pennants
With a last minute change due to an illness our Bushrangers took on Parkes Railway on Sunday for the pennants.
Scott McKellar, Robert Dukes, Robert Bayley and Christan West gave it their all but were out bowled on the day going down 32-19.
Ian Hodges, Geo Williams, Brian Asimus and Skip Bruce Williams had a little more success with their score but were unable to bring home the win. Final score 21-17.
Je Nicholson answering the emergency call to ll in for Mitch Andrews at short notice skipped for Clint Hurford, Greg Gunn and Shane Bolam.
Whilst the game was tight and both sides played well Je s team came away with the win only just 22-21.
Major pairs
Two majors pairs games were played on Saturday to battle it out to see who moves onto round 3. Both games were spectator worthy with great bowls witnessed by many.
Billy Cowell lead for Laurie Crouch when they took on Ian Hodges and Bert Bayley. 4 all on 5 this was shaping up to what looked like a close game. Ian and Bert won the next eight ends in a row picking up multiples and even a 5 to have a comfortable lead 19-4 on 12.
Mr consistent Bert Bayley was on his game and it showed on the board winning overall 28-8 and advancing to the third round with Ian Hodges. We will see if they can carry this performance through on their next game against Pat O’Neill and Mick Merritt.
Our second game of Major Pairs played was Brett Davenport and Robert (Pooch) Dukes coming up against Brian (Spro) Asimus and Mitch Andrews. Spro and Mitch were o to a great start leading by 8-0 on 4. Brett and Pooch started to gain their momentum getting some runs on the board but trailed by 20 on 13. Hard to
catch up but not impossible, Brett and Pooch were unfortunate to only pick up ones when they won the ends and Spro and Mitch’s 5 on the 17th certainly didn’t help Brett and Pooch. Spro and Mitch were the victors 30-10.
Major singles Kicking o the Major Singles competition were Terry and Molloy and Christan West. Speaking to Terry before the game he was nervous as he really hadn’t played for more than six months.
Westy was o to a great start and Terry was answering every bowl, Westy lead 4-3 on 4. Westy kept his eye on the prize leading 10-4 on 9, 17-4 on 13 and not slowing down to bring it home 25-8.
Also playing the Major Singles game on Sunday was Mick Merritt who drew Jason Howell. Mick started o well to try and get a handy lead and stay in that position ngers crossed. Mick leading 12-2 on 8, 16-6 on 13. Jason was certainly not giving in and started to make his mark on the 18.
Closing the gap one bowl at a time, Jason was closing in on Mick 11-20 on 20, 18-20 on 23 this was going to come down to the wire.
Jason hit the lead on 26 by
2 points and kept his focus on just needing 3 more points to win the game. Mick wasn’t let it go that easy and fortunately luck was on his side and won the last four ends to take out the game with nal score 25-22.
Social bowls
There’s no beating a game of bowls, especially Wednesday morning where last week 32 graced the green with one shot determined the winners in a game of triples over 12 ends.
At the end of the day Don Cra , Deb Cheslett from Maryborough Q. and Noel Jolli e were victorious over Geo Coles, husband Rob Cheslett and Dale Scott 11-10 having to hang on a er it was 11-5 before the last two ends going down 5-0.
Runners-up were Barry
White and John Kennedy 2114 in 18 over Sue Smith and Paul Doust a er it was 12-7 at half time.
Who won the game between Tony Burke from Harvey Bay Q. and John Baass is anyone’s guess with a score of 17-15 playing Sandra Priest and Leon Dwyer from Benalla Vic. Guess who? They also played the odd number, 17 ends.
Slightly closer and more clearer had Eddie Gould and Je Nicholson winning 22-18 in another odd end game, 21 ends over Kerry Dunstan and Lyall Strudwick. Eddie and Je had to nish best down 3-8 a er seven then 11-all at the end of 15 to lead 22-11 after 19 then just holding on. The last three game all nished on an even end. The rst had Lyn Simmons and
Barry Shine nishing best in 18 to down Bill O’Connell and Sue White 20-10 a er it was only 8-7 a er nine.
Slightly easier for Ann Mackay and Laurie Crouch winning 19-8 in 18 over Cheryl Hodges and John Gorton. They were out of the boxes best 7-1 a er ve then 13-4 at the end of 11.
In the last, a 12-5 win to Ann Nixon, Irene Riley and Peter Mackay in 12 over Angela Dent, Bill Scott and Peter Barnes. 6-1 a er four then 11-3 at the end of nine. In-club winners Peter Barnes and Eddie Gould.
Thursday bowls: The heat certainly deterred a few bowlers on Thursday a ernoon with only eight bowlers braving the weather.
Billy Cowell and Cherie Vincent drew Gary Reilly (a visitor from Bribie Island) and Glen Kearney.12-8 to Gary and Glen on 10 the game looked close. Gary and Glen picked up a 5 on the next end and jumped ahead 17-8. Keeping their opponents at bay Cherie and Billy were only able to win three of last seven ends and unfortunately not coming away with the win. Going down 24-14.
Bobby Grant and Alan Hilder played Tara Shaw and
Jamie Dukes. Tara and Jamie o to a slow start and not getting any points on the board until the 7th. Bobby and Alan lead 12-2 on 87, 17-8 on 13 with no signs of slowing. Bobby and Alan won the game 22-16. Sunday bowls: The morning was a little cooler then it has been and the overcast sky kept it that way. The wind was going to be challenging but bowlers love a challenge. There were 24 bowlers and x games of pairs kicking o with Kelly Stringer and Peter Tisdell drawing Phil Hocking and John Kennedy. Peter and Kelly holding the lead 7-2 at half time. Kelly and Peter went onto to win the game 20-6.
Graham (Grub) and Gary Reilly played Lloyd Nelson and Billy Cowell. Grub and Gary were de nitely on re going into the break 11-1. It was not Billy and Lloyds day with only managing 10 points on the board, Grub and Gary stormed ahead 21-10.
Cheryle Hodges and Pat O’Neil teamed up against Mia Condon and John Cutler. A close game on Rink 6 with two di erence on 8. Cheryle and Pat kept the nose just in front for the run home to win 13-12. Ange Dwyer and Lyall Strudwick had a great win over Jax Murphy and Cli Nelson. 13-3 in favour of Ange and Lyall at half time, Jax and Cli refuelled but wasn’t able to catch up with the game going to Ange and Lyall 25-8. Juss Sci eet back on the green paired with Alan Hilder gave it their all when they came up against Trish Todd and Peter Greenhalgh. Juss and Alan edging in front 6-4 on 8. Trish and Pete came out of the break picking up multiples to win the game 18-9.
Father vs Son when Terry Murphy and Tara Shaw took on Tyler Murphy and Peter Mackay. Another close game at the start with 1 point separating on 8. Terry and Tara trailed a er the break to bring it home to have a 13 all draw.
Resting touchers went to Pat O’Neill, Kelly Stringer, Peter Greenhalgh and Cli Nelson.
Winning rink: Rink 9 –Grub and Gary Reilly. Losing Rink: Rink 8 – Tyler and Terry Murphy, Peter Mackay and Tara Shaw.
Mitch Andrews, Pooch Dukes, Brett Davenport and Spro Asimus contesting the major pairs.
Locals dominate vets golf Summer squash
GOLF
VETS GOLF
Forbes players took full advantage playing on their home course when they dominated the rst of the Lachlan Valley Veterans Golfers monthly competitions last week.
Making a welcome return to form a er extended works on the farm Stuart French playing o a 14 handicap carded 38 points for the 18 holes to win from Grenfell’s Barry Green, runner-up with 34 points on a count-back.
The locals made it a double in B grade with Alex Mackinnon also returning 38 points to nish two better than team mate Frank Hanns.
The Forbes layout was presented in top condition and the 63 players (including ve associates) who contested the event ensured a good start to the Lachlan Valley events for 2025.
In the Coles/Miller shield (for the best three scores from each club) it was another win to the locals with a score of 112 points. In equal second on 98 points were Parkes and Grenfell, followed by Condobolin (91) and West Wyalong (87).
Nearest-to-pins were shared around with Forbes’ Kim Herbert and John Pearce from Parkes winning A and B grade respectively on the ninth hole, while Nym Dziuba (Parkes) and Greg Moncrei (Condo) took the spoils on the 18th.
Ball sweep winners to 31 points, from Forbes and Parkes - 34 Les Little (F), Bruce Chandler (F), 32 Nym Dziuba (P), Rob Staples (P), John Pearce (P), Lex Hodges (P) Je Moon (F), Barry Parker (F), 33 Niel Duncan (F),
Andrew Norton-Knight (F), 31 Kim Herbert (F), Peter Grayson (F), Peter Cowhan (F),
This week the twin-towns competition will be at Parkes. Registrations from 8.15am for a 9am shot-gun start.
The ‘Devil’s’ number of 13 played last Tuesday in the 12 hole social comp with scoring a little harder then usual due to some nasty pin placements from the weekend a er Forbes hosted pennants matches.
A keen Ken Walton scored best with 25 points while hot on his heels were Ross Williams with 24 and Andrew Norton-Knight 22 with other all thereabouts.
Tuesday ball toss at 8.30am, and with weather conditions on the change for how long? ‘Comp fee’ only $3. Everyone invited to play, young and old. See you 8.30am on Tuesday!
MEN’S GOLF
Seventy people contested Saturday 4BBB stableford sponsored by Highlands Design at Forbes golf club.
Equal scoring on 47 were the day’s winners Peter Dawson and Todd Callaghan, and runners up Richard Smith and Liam Fraser.
Callaghan also won the single stableford competition.
Ball winners were Liam Whit eld and Mark Simmonds; Simon Martino and Adam Currey; Wayne O’Neill and Matthew Du ; Brian Everest and Andrew Dukes; Je rey House and Anthony Alley; Robert Scott and Hamish Steele-Park; Terry Sharpe and Blake Sharpe; Jake Banks and Cody Banks; and Harry Callaghan and Caleb Hanrahan.
By DROP SHOT!
RESULTS of our Short Summer Comp, week three.
Thursday February 20
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
Join croquet club for open day
CROQUET
By ELVY QUIRK
ON Saturday last 22 February
2025 Aussie Croquet was played with 34 in attendance. A warmer morning but everyone seemed to enjoy the game.
We had visiting once again Sandra Roberts, Mackenzie, Indi and Evie Thomson. Lovely to see them back again enjoying a game.
On the day three games were won by Geo Coles, John Farah, Elvy Quirk, Kevin Rubie and Neville Spry. Congratulations to those players.
The following scores were recorded:
One runaway score was played by John Farah (Solo) defeating Allan Jones (Solo) 14/8; 14/13 scores were recorded by Allan Jones & Russell Anderson def May Jones & Bruce Field, Sally Perry & Marie Spry def David West & Cheryl Toohey, Kevin Rubie & Sandra Roberts def Vince Roberts & Frank Donohoe, Elvy Quirk & Geo Coles def Joan Littlejohn & Kevin Wenning, Bruce Field & Marie Spry def Sandra Roberts & David West, Elvy Quirk & David West def John Browne & Noel Jolli e, Vince Roberts & Rex Toole def Lyn Simmonds & John Allegri: 14/12 scores as follows: David West (Solo) def Lyn Simmonds(solo) John Browne & Noel Jolli e def John Allegri, David West & Lyn Simmonds def John Farah & Rex Toole, Allan Jones & Robin Pols def Indi Thomson & Russell Anderson, May Jones & Harley Stewart def Sally Perry & Enid Baker; 14/11 scores as follows: Dorelle Scott & Neville Spry def Bill Scott & Marie Spry, Colleen Liebich & Noel Jolli e def Evie Thomson
& Bruce Field, Indi Thomson & Geo Coles def Enid Baker & Sally Perry, May Jones & Cheryl Toohey def Sandra & Vince Roberts, Mackenzie & Pam Thomson def Robin Pols & David West, Kevin Rubie (solo) def Bill Scott (solo) Mackenzie Thomson & Geo Coles def Pam & Evie Thomson, John Farah & Neville Spry def Frank Donohoe & Kevin Wenning. There were also many 14/10 scores recorded on the day.
On Tuesday 25 February 2025 Golf Croquet was played with 33 in attendance where it was found during the third game it was extremely warm never the less players enjoyed the morning.
All three games were won by Sue Jolli e, Elvy Quirk and Bill Scott. Congratulations to those players.
Scores recorded 11/2 runaway score by Helen Lupis & Peter
Mackay def Enid Baker; 10/3 scores as follows: Fay Picker & Mal Smith def Sandra Roberts & Peter Mackay, Allan Jones & Bill Scott def Mal Smith & Neville Spry, John Browne & Sue Jolli e def Fay Picker & Rex Toole; 9/4 scores as follows: Kevin Rubie & Sally Perry def Vince Roberts & Lyn Simmonds, Noel
Jolli e & Sandra Roberts def Sue Wade & Pam Thomson; 8/5 scores Allan Jones & Mal Smith def Sue Wade & Pam Thomson, Dorelle Scott & Lyn Simmonds def May Jones & Russell Anderson, Fay Picker & Sue
Jolli e def Margaret Dent & Sue Wade, Rex Toole & Ray Martin def Sandra & Vince Roberts, Bill Scott (solo) def Evelyn Mahlo & Sally Perry, Pam Thomson & Peter Mackay def Helen Lupis & Bruce Field, Bill Scott & Enid Baker def Kevin Rubie & Bruce Field, Allan
First some highlights: Max Jones lost set one 9-15 to Jake Shaw, then Max regrouped and won straight sets 15-7, 15-6, 15-5 to take the match in four.
Will Markwort and Alex Bayley had a big see saw match, where Will lost set one 1015 but then won the second 15-10.
At two sets even Will managed the fifth set win 15-11.
Jono Cannon was a set ahead of adversary Wayne Bilsborough and also won the second an amazing 22-20. But Wayne found another gear saved the match and eventually won the fifth set 15-10, great squash from these two tough opponents.
Darryn Piper and Lockie Miller had their usual tight, top shot battle the first three sets were; 11-15, 15-11, and 11-15 then Lockie took sets four and five 15-8, 15-10. Weivan Huang and Garry Dempsey were set for set in another five set thriller which Weivan finally won 16-14.
Deb Bryant’s lobs boasts and drop shots hornswoggled Henry Willis despite his excellent court speed, Deb won 6-1.
Court 1: MJones v Shaws 25 to 24. Dan Bayley v Jake Shaw 2-5 and then it was all systems go for Lawry Brayne defeating Mark Webb in three sets. Adam Chudleigh v Max Ridley 2-5, Deb Bryant v Dennis Haynes 1-6 and Josh Hayley v T J markwort 5-2.
Court two: Dawes v Hornerys 25 to 17. Oli v Sam 6-1, Brett Thomas v Tim Coombs 1-6, Al Carlisle v sub Will Markwort 3-4, Sam Mackay v Greg Ridge 6-1 and Tim Welsh v Ken Brynat 6-1.
Court three; Millers v Pipers 23 to 26. Nathan Roach v Brendon Allegri 2-5, Cam Dale v Lockie Jones 2-5, Scott Webb v Pete Cowhan 6-1, sub Josh Haley v Claire Bayley 5-2.
Team places are now: Millers in front and equal with Jones’ on 75 points, Shaws retain third spot for 70, Pipers now on 66 have taken Hornery’s fourth place and left them at fifth for 61 while Dawes stay at sixth position with 60 points.
Jones & Ray Martin def Helen Lupis & Pam Thomson.
Also there were many 7/6 scores recorded.
A special thank you once again to John Farah who has been bringing his esky with water which is supplied by the Club. A saviour on the hot days.
Our Croquet lawns are in pristine condition with the recent watering by John Browne, Allan Jones and May Jones and of course topped up by the recent rain.
A very special thank you and as well to the dedicated members who help set up each day.
Seniors week open day will be held on 4 March when Golf Croquet will be played.
Should you be interested in try ing the game please come down to Halpins Flat at 8.30 am on the day and you will be paired with an experienced player to get to know the game.
The day is free of charge and a scrumptious morning tea will be served.
It was lovely to again see San dra Roberts come and once again enjoy a game with us and I am sure that her Dad, Vince enjoys her visits.
A call from Cherylin today Tues day to thank Elvy for the lovely owers sent to her.
Cherylin is again in hospital in Orange where she will again un dergo surgery this week. Best wish es go to her.
Croquet is a game for young and old alike and we would like to see some more young players come on a Tuesday or a Saturday.
It is important that we encour age younger players as that is the future of the Club.
Wednesday night’s results were unavailable.
This week’s draw: team 1 v 4, 2 v 6, 3 v 5 both nights.
Catching up on week two results:
Classic comebacks: Ellie Cowhan lost set one 8-15 to sub K Chudleigh when Kim got in early but Ellie hit back 15-11, 18-16 then touché 15-8 for the win and Nate Markwort nailed the first set 15-9 against Lucas Jones then Lucas zoomed home 15-10, 15-10, 15-11.
Court 1: CJones v Benticks 21 to 14 points.
Court two: RJones v Hardys 21 to 14. Court three: Markworts v Webbs 19-16. Thursday evening highlight hits: John Ridley and young Will Markwort were neck and neck at the fourth post but Will went on to win the fifth set by a nose 15-12 and Greg
Irene Ford, Kevin Wenning, Kevin Rubie and Evelyn Mahlo enjoying a game of croquet.
PHOTO: Elvy Quirk
Paul Kay putts, watched by Scott Kirkman, in the sunshine on the Forbes golf course.
Bogan Gate firms up grip on Cup
Bogan Gate retains a rm grip on the Grinsted Cup, denying a challenge from Forbes this week in their 14th consecutive defence.
The Cup holders batting rst at Parkes’ Spicer Oval on Sunday morning, Paul Dunford led the charge notching up 69 runs.
It was Forbes’ Ben Sey er (4/49 o 12) who eventually sent the bails ying to bring his innings to an end.
Captain Ryan Dunford added 25 as Forbes bowled their hosts out for 185 in the 49th over.
how they’ve held this historic trophy for the past two seasons when they went to the eld: they took consistent wickets to have Forbes out for 40 runs.
Tommy Caldwell was sensational in the eld, taking four catches in gully.
Charlie Mitton (6) and Selwyn Bale (3) opened the batting for Forbes but Israel Symington (3/12 o seven) struck early in the innings.
Andrew Britt claimed 3/24 o eight overs; and Pete Thomas took 2/3 without even bowling a full over.
Victory for Lachlan cricketers
Lachlan Cricket Council Under 12s are grand nal bound in the Western Zone Cricket Competition.
Lachlan won their semi- nal by three wickets in Forbes on Sunday, chasing down a 123run total set by Bathurst in the nal over of the day’s play.
They’ll now contest the grand nal in Orange this Sunday, at Jack Brabham Park 1.
On the adjacent oval, Lachlan Cricket Council’s 16s batted rst and set a solid total to set their side up for victory in the zone competition.
Harry Yelland made 84 and a er the fall of the second wicket, Mac Glasson (30) joined him at the crease for a 96-run partnership.
Zac Guy took ve wickets to give Lachlan a 37-run win.
and Jamaraki set a record.
In the junior 50 metre breaststroke Miles Turner broke a 2024 record in a time of 47:02 seconds.
In the 11 years 50 metre freestyle, Jack Pointon broke a record from 2024 in a time of 32:68 seconds.
Mac Glasson scored 30 as Lachlan Cricket Council 16s set an unbeatable total at Forbes on Sunday.
Records tumble at FPS carnival
On Friday 14 February Forbes Public School held their annual swimming carnival.
It was a wonderful day full of record breakers, participation and sportsmanship.
Students turning 8-13 years of age competed in 50 metre freestyle/backstroke/breaststroke/butterfly, 100 metre freestyle, 200 metre individual medley, 25 metre races, shallow end races and small pool activities.
Mallee House won the war-cry challenge and the winning house will be announced at the next assembly.
There was also an exciting year 6 versus staff versus parents relay.
Individual champions were Miles Turner and Mollie Flick (Junior), Jack Pointon and Charlie Acheson (11 years), Leo Dwyer and Lucy Rout (12/13 years).
In the 11 years 50 metre freestyle, Jack Pointon broke a record from 2024 in a time of 32:68 seconds.
In the junior 50 metre breaststroke Miles Turner also broke a 2024 record in a time of 47:02 seconds.
In the 12/13 years 50 metre backstroke, Leo Dwyer broke a very old record held by Chris Nock since 1980,
in a time of 41:33 seconds (previous record was 42:50 seconds).
The final record was achieved by the Kurrajong senior boys relay team - Ari, Leo, Jack and Jamaraki - who broke the 2024 record in a time of 2:43:43 minutes.
Well done to all swimmers who pro gressed to the Lachlan PSSA Swimming Team Trials in Condobolin, held on Monday 24 February.
Selected students from this trial will head to Dubbo to try out for the Western PSSA Swimming Team off to Sydney.
Bogan Gate to 31 runs o the 15 overs he
FootyNRL TIPPING
45yo record tumbles at swim carnival
A 45-year-old swimming record has tumbled as schools dive in to their 2025 carnival season. Forbes Public School hosted their carnival on Friday 14 February and Leo Dwyer set a new record for the 12/13 years 50m backstroke. Leo covered the distance in 41.33 second to break a record of 42.50 seconds, which was set by Chris Nick and has stood since 1980. But Leo wasn’t the only record breaker, with new times set for the 11 years 50m freestyle, junior 50m breaststroke and the senior boys relay. Details in the full story, page 30.
Giddings in Aus masters cricket wins
As the nals of the International Masters Cricket Over 50’s World Cup intensify in Sri Lanka, former Forbes junior cricketer Glen Giddings has played a pivotal role in leading Australia to victory in several key matches on the global stage.
Giddings, an all-rounder, began his cricket career at just seven years of age in the Forbes local junior cricket competition.
Re ecting on those early days, he recalls, “It was extremely hot, I was only seven, and I’m not sure how I played, but I’ve loved the game ever since.”
Growing up in Forbes, Giddings was immersed in the spirit of cricket from a young age.
A proud School Captain of Forbes High School in 1987, he spent countless a ernoons at the cricket nets, bat in hand, with his father, Ken Giddings, tirelessly throwing down balls to help
When asked about his greatest in uence in junior cricket, Giddings quickly responded, “Bruce
“Bruce dedicated countless hours each season coaching, building skills and a strong sense of teamwork,” he said.
Giddings was only a junior when he played for Forbes in the Grinsted Cup and was part of the winning team in 1985.
His cricket career has spanned over ve decades, with Giddings representing clubs and teams such as Forbes, Lachlan Zone, Western Suburbs in Sydney, Gravesend in Kent, U.K., Orange Cyms, Western Zone, Eastern Suburbs in Sydney, Gosford, Kincumber Avoca, and the Central
Coast Over 50’s. Now, he adds the Australian Over 50’s team to his cricketing achievements.
Giddings made his rst-grade debut for Eastern Suburbs Cricket Club in Sydney in 1996.
Several years earlier, he had moved to England to pursue both his career and the opportunity to play cricket for Gravesend in Kent.
During the ongoing International Masters series in Sri Lanka, the Australian Over 50’s team has remained undefeated through all six matches.
In a thrilling encounter, Australia triumphed over South Africa, successfully chasing a challenging target of 265.
With four runs needed in the nal over, Giddings sealed the victory by hitting a boundary o the rst ball, completing the chase in the 45th over.
In Sri Lanka, Giddings has showcased his expertise with
both bat and ball, using his vast experience and composure to guide the team to victory.
His contributions have been invaluable, both on the eld and in leadership.
Beyond his own playing career, Giddings has been dedicated to developing cricket at the grassroots level. This includes coaching in the NSW Country Junior Academy program, managing a junior representative team on the Central Coast, and contributing to committees.
Re ecting on his love for the game, Giddings credits his roots in Forbes for shaping his passion.
Looking ahead to the future of the sport, he says, “the country consistently produces a wealth of talent, and improving these facilities would o er a valuable return on investment, ensuring both on- eld success and longterm growth for the sport.”
