FORBES Pharmacist Jack Buckley has been named the Pharmacist of the Year at the Independent Pharmacies of Australia annual Pharmacy Excellence Awards. A trained pilot, Jack has combined his professional expertise as a pharmacist with his passion for flying to serve out communities: his approach to healthcare delivery first recognised during the flood crisis in November 2022. “I think the key message is, don’t underestimate what community pharmacy can offer patients, particularly in regional centres,” Jack said. Full story page 3
RUN FOR SILVER
Housing offers now open
Two long years on from floods, those affected can apply for buybacks, resilience works
NEARLY two years on from the 2022 flood disasters, residents can start applying for buybacks, raising, relocation or flood resilience improvements.
The Central West Resilient Homes package opened for applications online Monday, October 28, with Reconstruction Authority NSW staff to be on the ground in Forbes and Eugowra to help residents with the process.
Maps of the areas prioritised for different types of support are now available online, with some properties in Cabonne among those to be eligible for property buybacks.
Much larger areas of both Forbes and Eugowra are flagged for resilience measures, which include raising
or relocating a home, rebuilding a more resilient home or retrofitting homes with more resilient materials.
All levels of government gathered in Eugowra on Saturday to announce the opening of applications, with Federal Minister for Emergency Management Senator Jenny McAllister, and State Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib standing with our State and Federal MPs and the region’s mayors.
Senator McAllister said the program was designed to ensure central west communities would be more resilient against future disaster.
“I encourage eligible homeowners to apply for this funding so we can minimise the impacts on homes and families going forward,” she said.
There is $40 million in
the housing package to be shared across Forbes, Cabonne, Parkes and Lachlan shires, and that is part of $100 million for the region, funded by State and Federal governments.
All the details and applications are online via nsw.gov.au/ resilienthomesprogram
The prioritisation maps are based on flood risk information, but the website states other information will also be used to understand risks and inform eligibility.
The program will take individual circumstances into account.
But for some of the locals gathered at the park, the package has been too long coming. They’ve already made their repairs, at their own expense.
■ Continued page 9
What’s on in and around Forbes
CINDERELLA AND THE CRYSTAL SLIP-
PER October 25 - November 9
Parkes M and D is proud to present Cinderella and the Crystal Slipper. This production is a traditional Pantomime by Brian Luff a musical comedy and fun for the whole family. Tickets are now available at https://www. parkesmandd.com.au/box-office
READING DAY
Friday, November 1
Forbes Birth to Kinder welcome you to another reading day to celebrate the importance of reading in the early years of development. Reading Day will be at Preschool Park (Purple Park) for birth to kinder aged children. If you are interested in planning and/ or delivery an activitiy or volunteering your time on the day contact Forbes North Public School on 68522187.
ADULT SURVIVORS OF CHILD ABUSE
Friday, November 1
The Adult Survivors of Child Abuse - Cowra Support Group meets on the first Friday of each month from 12:30 to 14:30 and is open to survivors of all communities. All details online via: recover.itmatters.com.au. Alternatively, call Pascale, the facilitator, on 0458 698 460.
TEDDY BEARS PICNIC
Saturday, November 2
Forbes Youth Action Team are excited to announce their Teddy Bears Picnic! The event will be held from 10am to 1pm at Lions Park.
JEMALONG RETIREMENT VILLAGE INFORMATION MORNING
Wednesday, November 6
Join Catholic Healthcare for a morning tea and information session for the next stage at Jemalong Retirement Village. Are you curious about the proposed plans and life at Jemalong Retirement Village? Whether you’re considering retirement options for yourself or a loved one, this is your chance to ask questions, tour the village, and meet new friends. This will be held from10am at 240 Edward Street. RSVP now on the Catholic Healthcare website or call Gwen at 0421 770 101
EUGOWRA CATCHMENT LANDCARE
Saturday, November 9
At Pioneer Park in Eugowra from 4pm listen to ecologist Adam Kerezsy about the health of our catchment and the ecosystem it supports. Connect with others working to help the community and catchment thrive and lean how to transform our waterways and why it matters. BBQ available, please register for catering via humanitix.
RALLYING TO SUPPORT THE MCGRATH FOUNDATION
Saturday, November 9
The Hey Sis Project with Asha will be hosting an event at the Parkes Tennis Club from 1pm to 4pm to raise funds for the McGrath
Foundation. There will be music, raffles, afternoon tea, and some fun tennis. Wear pink as there will be prizes for the best dressed. To register and pay $5 per person please contact Asha on 0466417716. Registrations close November 6.
NATIONAL BBQ CHAMPIONSHIPS
November 9 and 10
Become the 2024 National BBQ Champion. National and local teams will be competing in grilling and smoking. Two days of competition of grilling and low and slow smoking. There will be a bar, live music, food trucks, major cash prizes, cooking demonstrations, celebrity chef and BBQ stalls.
BILA GALARI TOUR
November 14 and 15
A two-day tour following in the footsteps of our first Australians on a memorable expedition down the Lachlan River with the River Dreaming Aboriginal Corporation. Im-
merse yourself in the rich tapestry of history and culture, and discovering the fascinating stories and traditions that have shaped this remarkable waterway. There is a limit of 10 participants per tour. For inquiries and bookings please contact River Dreaming Aboriginal Corporation at enquiries@rdac.org.au
EUGOWRA CHRISTMAS SHOPPING NIGHT
Friday, November 15
Eugowra businesses will be open late and local markets and stall holders will be in attendance from 5pm to 8pm. For enquiries email hello@visiteugowra.com.au
FORBES COLOUR RUN
Wednesday, November 27
Join Club Aruma for the Forbes colour run from 9:30am to 2pm at the Forbes Rugby Union Oval. There is a $10 entry fee and bring a bank t-shirt, sunscreen, hat and water bottle. Make sure to register your interest before
Wednesday, October 30 by contacting Amy Morgan on 0427720523 or amy.morgan@aruma.com.au
ROTARY IPOMOEA CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL
Friday, December 6 to Sunday, December 8
Rotary Ipomoea invites you to make and decorate a Christmas tree, nativity or wreath for the 12th community Christmas Tree Festival. Contact Rotary Club of Forbes Ipomoea for more details.
CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT
Saturday, December 14
Enjoy Carols by Candlelight in Victoria Park this year. Before the carols begin at 8pm there will be activities and Santa will make an appearance at 7pm. There will be talented local performers, food, drinks and glow candles on sale. Make sure to bring a chair or blanket to enjoy the night in comfort.
The Forbes Advocate welcomes your thoughts and feedback on issues in the Forbes community. If you have a story lead or prepared
and photographs you’d like published contact the senior journalist Renee Powell on 0448 238 023.
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Logan wins WorldSkills gold
Local apprentice fitter machinest qualifies for national competition
LOGAN Montgomery has won gold in the regional World Skills competition.
The third-year apprentice fitter machinest topped the turning competition in Orange with an impressive 81 points, and will represent our region at nationals in Brisbane.
Logan had to machine a mandrel, a sleeve and a nut - to all specified tolerances - in six hours.
He finished with 45 minutes to spare.
At Forbes business Ace Machining, Logan spends most of his time working on the lathe and honing his skills under the watchful eye of Greg Drabsch.
Most of their work is on agricultural machinery and particularly at this time of year as the region has been gearing up toward harvest.
The skills he’s developed in repairing, replacing parts and machining parts for chaser bins, augers and more stood Logan in good stead in the competition.
“It’s definitely helped with how much machining I do here - it’s a good 70 to 80 per cent of what I do,” Logan said.
“It’s helped me a lot.”
Accuracy, precision and patience are all critical attributes for the trade, Logan’s ability to focus and his attention to detail essential.
Greg said Logan’s success was a credit to him, and he’s pleased for the opportunities it will open up.
There’s a training camp to help candidates prepare for the nationals competition that Logan will be able to attend.
“That will give him tips and pointers on how to get better, to produce better finishes, to produce a better job in a quicker time,” Greg said.
“It’ll only benefit him.”
Not only that, but Logan’s found a trade he loves.
After being uncertain about his career path, he decided to take up the trade and enter the industry.
“I love it now,” he said.
WorldSkills Australia has been providing young people with the opportunity to showcase their trade and skills since 1981, and it is part of the international WorldSkills movement.
Nationals will take place in mid2025.
Jack Buckley named IPA Pharmacist of the Year
FORBES Pharmacist Jack Buckley has been named the Pharmacist of the Year at the Independent Pharmacies of Australia (IPA) annual Pharmacy Excellence Awards.
The part owner of Flannery’s Pharmacy and Life Pharmacy in Forbes received the accolade for his dedication to rural healthcare.
A trained pilot, Jack’s innovative approach to healthcare delivery was first recognised during the November 2022 flood crisis, when he utilised his flying skills to transport medical supplies and pharmacy staff to towns along the Lachlan River.
Jack and his Life Pharmacy Group (LPG) colleagues have since been working alongside the Western New South Wales Primary Health Network (WNSW PHN) to coordinate and deliver the Australian Government’s COVID-19 Vulnerable Vaccination Program to aged care residents across rural and remote locations such a Bourke and Cobar. By combining his professional
expertise as a pharmacist, with his passion for flying, Jack has revolutionised the delivery of essential medical services to remote communities.
“This award was certainly a nice, albeit unexpected, surprise,” MrBuckley said.
“We know the greatest challenge facing patients in rural and regional Australia is access - they simply don’t have the same access to health expertise, resources, and treatments that their city counterparts do.
“If we can do our bit to help bridge that gap, then we’re doing our job well.
“I think the key message is, don’t underestimate what community pharmacy can offer patients, particularly in regional centres.
“We are very service based and place a huge emphasis on patient management and, the great thing is, we’re making a difference to the community.”
The award is one of Australia’s
most prestigious and highlight regarded pharmacy accolades, with LPG CEO, Michael Flannery, congratulated Jack on his achievement.
“This award is a credit to Jack and all the work he puts into the Forbes stores and his local community,” Mr Flannery said.
“He has been a wonderful addition to LPG since joining us over 12 years ago.
“Jack has embraced the Forbes community, is popular with his patients, and is an excellent Pharmacist.
“The impact he has made in recent years, particularly utilising his love of flying, highlights his dedication and commitment to community health.”
The IPA Summit provided an opportunity for those within the network to connect and discuss key priorities, such as delivering the right mix of services to achieve better health and wellbeing outcomes for the community.
Logan Montgomery, with his regional World Skills gold medal, at Ace Machining with Greg Drabsch.
Jack Buckley is the IPA Pharmacist of the Year. PHOTO: Supplied
Thousands raised through Trundle pink ribbon event
By DAVID ELLERY
WHILE Trundle is best known for its Abba Festival, Carolyn Keep, a local business woman and cancer survivor, has spent the last nine years growing a companion event that is on track to have raised well over $200,000 for the Cancer Council by the middle of the decade.
That’s an amazing achievement for what is essentially a one woman show bolstered by a small band of dedicated and enthusiastic local volunteers.
This year’s “Pink Night”, held at the town’s Golf Club, is expected to raise at least $40,000.
$35,000 has already been collected and the funds are still rolling in.
That will bring the total raised since the event began to almost $190,000.
Ms Keep, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015, said last Friday’s (October 18) event –which was attended by an estimated 900 people – was the best “Pink Night” yet.
While admission to the event, which has been sponsored by the Trundle Services and Citizens Club since its inception, is free its many supporters come cashed up and ready to spend.
The big money earners are the raffles and the charity auction.
This year one family coughed up $5500 for a Queensland luxury resort holiday and a Rugby League tragic bid $500 for a State of Origin jersey signed by Rabbitoh’s great Jack Wighton.
While some of the raffle prizes are also donated most of the 71
items on offer were paid for by a substantial donation from the Trundle Services and Citizen’s Club.
Ms Keep, who said “Pink Night” had developed its own vibe and was now attracting people to the town in its own right, said the supporters were an eclectic group who came from “all over”.
One table of four women from Wollongong had seen a post on social media and thought it would be a fun thing to do.
“Social media has worked really well for us,” Ms Keep said.
“Some people are here for Abba, some are here for “Pink Night” and a lot are here for both.
“The bidding support is fantastic. I think that is because cancer, even though it is a terrible disease, is a leveller. Everybody either knows somebody who has had it or has had it themselves. It touches us all”.
Ms Keep is impressed by the progress in diagnosing and treating cancer in the last decade – but says much more needs to be done to ensure women in regional and remote communities are on an equal footing in terms of access to treatment and support as their urban counterparts.
“My cancer was detected because I was eligible for a free mammogram when I turned 50,” she said. “If I hadn’t done that things may have turned out very differently for myself and my family”.
Erin O’Leary, the guest speaker who comes from Peak Hill, highlighted the fact that although the qualifying age for a free mammogram had now been dropped to 40, younger women such as herself were still slipping through the cracks.
Ms O’Leary’s concerns about a
lump in her breast were initially dismissed.
If she had not sought a second opinion she might not have been diagnosed until it was too late.
Ms Keep, who devotes hundreds of hours preparing for “Pink Night” every year in addition to working in the family’s hardware store with her husband Gary, said she had been very well supported during her own illness.
“My drive is to make sure all women with cancer get access to the best possible support wherever they live,” she said.
“Women in the regions face unique challenges when cancer or other illness strikes. We have to leave our homes, our families and our local support networks for treatment. And access to specialists is always a challenge.
“We need to do everything we can to bridge that healthcare divide”.
State strengthens tobacco retail law
THE NSW Government says it is strengthening licensing laws to better protect the community from the harms of illegal tobacco Reforms including tougher penalties, more enforcement officers, and a new tobacco licensing scheme for retailers are being introduced.
The State has flagged a rise in illicit tobacco retailing including amongst rural communities in NSW, which adversely affects businesses that operate within the law. Under these changes, retailers and wholesalers of tobacco and non-tobacco smoking products will be required to hold a tobacco licence and pay an annual fee. A licence will be able to be refused, or revoked, if the applicant has been convicted of a tobacco or vaping product related offence.
The proposed legislation includes penalties of up to $220,000 for corporations and $44,000 for individuals for selling tobacco without a licence under the new scheme.
To ensure that applying for a tobacco licence is not burdensome for small businesses, a technical support phoneline will be available to everyone submitting an application.
NSW Health Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said the government supported a holistic approach to tobacco control, recognising reducing supply and access to illicit products is one component.
“Operating a tobacco licensing scheme will ensure NSW Health has accurate, up-to-date information on tobacco retailing and wholesaling activities in NSW, facilitating more efficient and effective enforcement activity,” Dr Chant said.
Information on NSW tobacco retailing laws can be found on the NSW Health website www.health. nsw.gov.au/
Enjoy the still or the film with new art at hospital
FRAMED stills taken from short films have been placed along the main corridor of Forbes Hospital with QR codes so patients, staff and visitors can watch the animated works in full on their phones.
This is part of Arts OutWest’s ongoing circuit of artworks between six hospitals in the NSW Central West in partnership with Western NSW Local Health District. See framed images from animations in Arts OutWest’s exhibition While the World Waits by Timothy Seager, Gus Armstrong, Parkes’ Stephan de Witt, and Henry Simmons with the River Yarners.
touring exhibition While the World Waits.
In November works from Forbes Arts Society will have work on exhibition at Forbes Hospital. These new paintings will be displayed throughout the maternity unit.
in the maternity ward, that previously showed at St Andrews Hall in Forbes as part of Arts OutWest’s 50th anniversary celebrations.
These images were recently shown at NSW Parliament House and the original videos were part of Arts OutWest’s two-year
The previous exhibition of work at Forbes Hospital was some of the photography by our Media Associates from the ‘Behind the Lens’ exhibition
Arts OutWest has been working with Forbes Hospital since 2014, initially through the redevelopment program of Parkes and Forbes hospitals.
Learn more online at https://artsoutwest.org. au/arts-health/
The TUCSON is now more dynamic than ever with improved design and technology. It features a dual 12.3” Panoramic Curved Display with Bluelink™ that ensures a harmonious blend of technology and functionality at your fingertips. It’s the mid-size SUV, taken to the next level. Available now in petrol and hybrid powertrains.
Organiser Carolyn Keep. PHOTOS: David Ellery
Rob Hellyer conducted the well supported auction.
Mell Wells, Miss Intercontinental Australia 2024, with the Jack Wighton jersey.
View the still images or point your phone camera at the QR code to load Stephan de Wit’s animated work line. PHOTOS: Supplied
Belle is Cabonne Youth of Month
Eugowra’s Belle Moxey has been named Cabonne’s Youth of the Month.
The St Joseph’s Catholic School captain was nominated by her principal for the honour, and it’s well deserved.
Belle was voted to the leadership role in her school by both staff and students, and proudly represents them.
She excels in her studies, particularly in English where she earned a Highly Commended in the Orange and District Public Speaking competition.
She’s also a talented athlete, representing her school and community in hockey.
Belle is an inspiration to her peers and the community. Congratulations, Belle! Cabonne Shire Council’s Youth of the Month program was initiated as an incentive and recognition of young achievers who are so important to the future of Cabonne, and the council welcomes nominations.
The presentation of the monthly award occurs at the start of the Ordinary Cabonne Council meeting.
Nominations are encouraged from school teachers,
Belle competed in the Bathurst Diocesan Hockey team and played in Tamworth to trial for the Polding team. She also represented the Parkes Hockey team at the Under 14’s State Field Hockey in Wagga.
members of the community, sporting coaches, employers and friends. The winner receives a Cabonne T-shirt, a certificate and a reference from the Mayor.
Essential criteria include:
• Age - school age up to 24 years of age.
• Scholastic achievements
• Sporting achievements
• Community involvement
• Leadership abilities
• Significance of achievement in broader community
For more information or a nomination form, call (02) 6392 3200 and ask for the Administration Officer, or go online to https://www.cabonne. nsw.gov.au/Community/ Youth-of-the-Month-Program
Life membership for long-serving volunteer
The St Vincent de Paul Society was pleased to recently award Life Membership to long serving and dedicated Forbes member Bev Parsons.
Central Council president, Jim Rogers, presented Bev with her certificate at a regional meeting in Parkes.
“Words cannot adequately express the gratitude you deserve, for years of dedicated leadership,” Mr Rogers said.
“Bev, you are a true and dedicated Vincentian. Thank you and congratulations on your achievement.”
Bev was congratulated on her 27 years of volunteering in the Vinnies shop and assisting those in need within the Forbes community.
Bev has been very active over the years, holding various leadership positions such as Conference President, Shop President and Shop Vice President.
Bev has always been quietly supportive of all she works with and the Society is extremely pleased to
acknowledge her amazing contributions and dedication allowing Vinnies to continue to support those in need within the community.
To keep this great work going, Vinnies is always in need of more volunteers.
Volunteering is one of the best ways to make new friends, build relationships and learn new skills.
The Society welcomes everyone of all ages.
Activities can include sorting of donated goods, serving at the counter, clerical duties, basic computer work or interviewing and listening to people in need and providing assistance to them.
If you are interested in volunteering and being able to give back to your community, call 6862 5758, email wcfsvdp@vinnies.org.au or call into the Vinnies Shop to enquire.
They would love to hear from you and have you join them in making a difference in the community.
be lodged either by hand, post or email by 3:00pm, Friday 1st November 2024. These vehicles are available for inspection by appointment only. For further information or to arrange an inspection please contact Council’s Manager Fleet, on 02 6850 2300 or by email to forbes@forbes.nsw.gov.au
Request for tender 2024-30 Provision of Cleaning Services (Public Amenities)
This tender is being facilitated by the Central NSW Joint Organisation (CNSWJO) on behalf of Council. To access the tender, please register as a supplier on the CNSWJO eProcure platform at https://app.eprocure.com.au/centralnswjo. Canvassing of any of Council’s Officers or Councillors will disqualify applications from the tendering process. The lowest of any tender will not necessarily be accepted. The deadline for lodgement of submissions is 5pm, 13 November 2024.
Names nominated for streets in new development
Padre White, Baxter and Perry are three new street names nominated for the Homes NSW Forbes North subdivision.
Forbes Shire Council was asked to provide names for streets within the housing development so the design consultant could put them on the submission to utility providers.
It’s early stages but the three were chosen, from the council’s policy for naming streets and parks, to recognise Keith Baxter, Alan Perry, and Padre White.
These names are not yet set in concrete, a report to councillors’ October meeting stated, and could be changed at a later date by the council.
It’s a sign of progress on the development, which Homes NSW intends to subdivide to deliver some 132 private, social and affordable homes over the next three to four years.
The development is planned for about 10 hectares of Crown land with access off Farnell Street and Dawson Street.
The NSW Government’s Forbes housing project website says acquisition of the land is anticipated this month, but there is still work to be done before the new homes can be built.
Following exhibition and consideration of community and stakeholders’ feedback - with sessions held in Forbes in February this year - development plans will be finalised, and a Part 5 planning approval granted in late 2024.
Construction will be taking place during 2025 and early 2026, paving the way for the construction of new homes in 2026.
More informationincluding subdivision and landscape plans and reports associated with the site is available on the website: https://www.dpie. nsw.gov.au/land-and-housing-corporation/regional/forbes
If you have any questions, on the development, you can email the Community Engagement team at communityengagement@homes. nsw.gov.au or call 1800 738 718.
Cabonne Mayor Kevin Beatty congratulates
Eugowra’s Belle Moxey, Youth of the Month.
PHOTO: Cabonne Council
Rhonda Keane (Regional President), Jim Rogers (Central Council President) and Helen Smith (Conference President) presented Bev Parsons with her Life Membership certificate. PHOTO: Supplied
Cinderella a hit on opening night
Opening night of Cinderella and the Crystal
at the
and D was full of musical
and fun for the whole family. The show will be running for the next two weekends each Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are available so make sure to book your seat now via the Parkes M and D website.
Please join us for our Morning Tea & Information Session to learn about our next stage & proposed plans for Jemalong Retirement Village.
Wednesday, 6 November at 10 AM 240 Edward St, Forbes NSW 2871 RSVP by calling Gwen on 0421 770
Noah Kennedy, Maddison Rye and Sheridan Kennedy of Forbes.
Rhys Forrestal, Russell Tanswell, Cinderella Director Ruth Barnes, Shevaun Brown, Christie Brown and Christa Radley.
Robert Muffet and John Sweeney of Forbes.
Alice Muffet and Helen Sweeney of Forbes.
Steve Lindsay, Ruth and Gary Crowley and John Sellars.
Isla Miller with Isla and Janet O’Donoghue.
Cinderella cast members Winter Hall from Condobolin with Sophie Francis of Parkes.
Cinderella (Ita Hughes).
The stepsisters Donatella (Andrew Cannon) and Britney (Alyssa Miller).
The cast on stage. PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham
Pugsey (Jess Morgan) and Mugsey (Ella Richards) the party planners.
Slipper
Parkes M
comedy
Candidate visits new Parkes electorate
The cost of living - and doing business - was at the top of the agenda when Federal candidate for the seat of Parkes, Jamie Chaffey, visited Parkes and Forbes.
The two shires, with West Wyalong, will be in the seat of Parkes come the next Federal election and our current MP Michael McCormack was introducing Mr Chaffey in our communities.
Inspecting Local Roads and Community Infrastructure projects and the Parkes bypass with council leaders, they also took the chance to talk to business owners and community members.
“We’ve heard the cost of living is biting, we’ve heard the cost of doing business is hard, the cost of power,” Mr McCormack said.
“We’ve heard it’s hard to find people to fill vacancies that are there.”
Nuclear power is on the agenda and bringing back Coalition policies that supported regional communities will be the focus for Mr Chaffey going forward.
Mr Chaffey hails from Gunnedah, a father of four and now a grandfather, a boilermaker by trade who has handed his family business to the next generation.
Frustrations in business led him to join his local Chamber of Commerce, then stand for local council where he was elected mayor.
“I worked very closely with my federal member Mark Coulton and saw the success when three tiers of government worked together to deliver on the community’s aspirations,” he said.
With Mr Coulton announcing his retirement at the next election, Mr Chaffey has gained preselection.
Mr Chaffey has been travelling
an electorate that now covers just over 50 per cent of the NSW land mass.
“I understand that’s the commitment required if I’m going to pay the respect to the position and the opportunity so more than willing to do that,” he said.
Does he consider the size of the vast seat an issue? The candidate says Mark Coulton has shown it can be done - and Mr Chaffey is eager to work with the people of the region.
“It’s real, it’s passionate people who are producing the food, the fibre, the natural resources and are crucial to the success not only of NSW but of Australia,” he said.
Michael McCormack, whose Riverina electorate no longer includes Forbes and Parkes, said he would continue to represent our towns until the next election.
It was great to travel the region meeting with local councils and
businesses, looking over projects he’s supported since becoming our MP in 2016. But he did agree the size of the electorates needs to be considered.
“I love representing the communities, I’ll represent those interests, I see it as a challenge and an opportunity,” Mr McCormack said. “I’m more looking at it from the constituents’ point of view: they have a right to see their local member without having to drive hundreds of kilometres.”
Mr Chaffey said supporting regional communities would be the priority for him.
“A lot more will come out in policy, a lot of things we’re going to basically go back to the status quo, where it was under the coalition, things that are impacting regional communities,” Mr Chaffey said.
Programs like Roads of Strategic Importance, Building Better Regions and regional funding
through the Mobile Blackspot program.
Overturning changes in water policy, around the Murray Darling Basin Plan, would also be on the agenda.
“All of those bigger things, we know have impacted our communities, we’re going to right that wrong,” Mr Chaffey said.
But it’s also about the other impacts that - on a daily basis - keep communities thriving.
“Making sure we can retain our people and attract more people to come in,” Mr Chaffey said.
“We’ve got vacancies in almost every industry in almost every community within the Parkes electorate, we’ve got unemployment rates that are under 3pc in all, under 2pc in most of them.
“Without bringing people into our communities, we can’t take that prosperous leap into all the opportunity that’s out there.”
3G phone network is going, gone this week
It’s goodnight and good luck to farmers, business owners and mobile phone users across the country, with the 3G Network officially being shut down this week.
Major telco providers Telstra and Optus are transitioning to a fully 4G and 5G network, with that process starting Monday October 28.
It’s understood there are some 60,000 3G devices still in use, and people are being urged to test their device.
National Farmers Federation
president David Jochinke warned anyone who hasn’t checked or replaced devices, “this is no longer a job for tomorrow”.
Regional Tech Hub General Manager Jen Medway said the independent advisory service had fielded hundreds of enquiries from people about what they needed to do, but about 60,000 3G-only enabled handsets were still in use around Australia.
You can go online to www.3gclosure.com.au or text ‘3’ to
‘3498’ to check your device.
Telstra advises that any customer with a phone manufactured prior to 2019 (more than four years old) should: check their device manual; visit their device manufacturer’s website; contact the retailer that sold the handset; or visit one of their stores for assistance.
As a general guide, your device manual or manufacturer should be able to tell you whether your specific device supports VoLTE Emergency Calling.
The NFF is also encouraging farmers to not ignore any 3G shutdown issues that do arise.
“If an issue arises, I’m urging farmers not to sit on their hands,” Mr Jochinke said.
“The sooner you report the issue to Telstra, Optus, or to the Regional Tech Hub, the sooner it gets addressed.”
“Information is critical to ensuring that this transition has positive outcomes for rural communities, and we must do our part.”
Council calls for community input on committees
Are you keen to be more involved in Forbes Shire Council and have your voice and experience heard in decision making?
Nominations are now open for community representatives on the council’s advisory committees. They are accepting nominations for the following:
Aerodrome advisory committeeto be chaired by Cr Chris Roylance: six airport user representatives; Events and tourism committee - to be chaired by Cr Marg Duggan: representatives from a food house, a hotel, a motel, a caravan park and a community event; Floodplain management committee, to be chaired by Cr Brian Mattiske: two community representatives;
Heritage advisory committee, to be chaired by Cr Michele Herbert: three community representatives; Indoor pool advisory committee, to be chaired by Cr Steve Karaitiana: three members of the Forbes Indoor Pool;
Multipurpose Equestrian Centre Advisory Committee - three user group representatives; Olympic Pool Advisory Committee to be chaired by Cr Chris Roylance: two community user representatives;
Saleyards Advisory Committee, to be chaired by Cr Jenny Webb: representatives of agents, vendors, transport and regional transport; Tree Committee, to be chaired by Cr Brian Mattiske: two community representatives and one special expert.
Nomination forms are available on the Forbes Shire Council website - forbes.nsw.gov.au - under tenders, public exhibitions and expressions of interest.
Nominations close at 5pm, Friday November 1, 2024. For further information, please contact Council’s Governance Officer on 6850 2300.
Dam dredging in preparation for Summer, new fountain
Have you noticed dredging machinery in the water at the Forbes Ski Dam?
Forbes Shire council is preparing the dam for the busy summer season ahead by dredging to restore the water’s depth, so boat users can enjoy the dam.
Dredging has been taking place for the past week, with the dam anticipated to be closed to boat users until today (Thursday, October 31).
It’s been focussed on three areas of the ski dam, removing debris and restoring the depth of water.
Once that program is complete, the machinery will move to Johnny Woods Crossing to begin dredging there to prepare for the installation of a new fountain.
Dredging is expected to take a day, with the fountain to be installed on the eastern side of the crossing in coming weeks.
Mayor Phyllis Miller showing Senator Perrin Davey, candidate for Parkes Jamie Chaffey and Member for Riverina Michael McCormack the Central West Livestock Exchange. PHOTO: Supplied
Forbes Shire Council is seeking nominations to its community advisory committees.
Mapping of the dredging locations through the ski dam in preparation for the Summer water ski season.
PHOTOS: Supplied by Forbes Shire Council
Dredging has been taking place through the Forbes ski dam and will move to Johnny Woods Crossing in preparation for a new fountain (inset).
Matters of State with MP Phil Donato
By PHILIP DONATO, STATE
MEMBER FOR ORANGE
Over the weekend I joined NSW Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib at the Eugowra SES HQ for the official handover of a new Gemini inflatable rescue boat, ready for the storm season.
The amazing SES volunteers did an amazing job in rapidly responding to the flood which devastated the town of Eugowra almost two years ago, so it was great to be there and extend our gratitude and provide them with essential equipment to enhance their capability for any future emergency response.
New boats, rescue and storm vehicles and ark angels have been delivered to NSW State Emergency Service (SES) units across the state, including Eugowra, Canowindra and Molong. I thank Minister Dib for his ongoing support and interest on in our emergency services across the electorate.
RESILIENT HOMES PACKAGE
ANNOUNCED
I was pleased to join with Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib MP and Federal Senator and Emergency Ser-
vices Minister Julie McAllister in Eugowra on Saturday, to officially announce the opening of the $40 million Resilient Homes Package for eligible Central West floodimpacted residents.
As the chairperson of the Community Leaders Forum, I have worked diligently, in partnership with the NSW Reconstruction Authority, to ensure this package is being rolled out to assist affected residents in moving forward.
WOMEN IN MINING
Last Thursday evening I attended the 2024 NSW Mining Annual Parliamentary Dinner, hosted by the NSW Mineral Council at NSW Parliament.
The Orange electorate benefits significantly from mining, which is important to the local economy and career opportunities.
It was great to meet a couple of women who are instrumental to the success of mining in our electorate.
I was honoured to share a table with Newmont Cadia Deputy General Manager Jade Little, and Nadine Heal, Evolution Mining Lake Cowal Operations Open Pit Supervi-
sor – recipient of the 2024 Outstanding Tradeswoman/ Operator/Technician in Australian Resources Award.
Mines across the electorate provide wonderful and rewarding career opportunities for men and women alike.
ADDRESSING THE STIFF UPPER LIP
MOVEMBER is on its way. Last week I joined fellow members of parliament in promoting this annual awareness and fundraising event - for men’s health.
As most of you know I’m pretty passionate about advocating for men’s health, and I try my best to lead by example.
Fellas, we all need to do more to take active steps to look after our own healthand not bury our heads in the sand.
I implore all men – do not ignore your health!
Ladies, please encourage the men in your lives to prioritise their health, too.
I look forward to seeing men cultivating moustaches during November, raising awareness and funds for men’s health, and a few chuckles too.
Willis and Rob Willis with David Walker in Forbes, recording local stories for the National Library of Australia. Look out for them in this month’s Outback magazine.
Voices of the Bush and local faces feature in Outback
Open this month’s RM Williams Outback Magazine and you’ll see some familiar faces.
The national publication has shone the spotlight on the work of Rob and Olya Willis, who have been recording the voices of Australians - particularly country peoplefor more than 40 years.
It’s life’s work for the Forbes couple, who have both received an OAM, and it’s their a passion.
Ensuring tales of day-to-day life and industry in our communities aren’t lost, hardship and humour shining through, or recording the stories of those who haven’t otherwise had a voice, is such an important work.
Forgotten Australians and child migrants,
Indigenous people involved in or affected by the removal of Indigenous children from their families are just some of those.
The Willises have captured heartache, laughter, tears, joy, trauma, music and more as they’ve ensured the stories of real people become part of our nation’s recorded history.
And yes, stories of Forbes and surrounding districts feature heavily - the memories of local identities including bushman and businessman David Walker are just one example.
Read the full story in the current Outback Magazine and find out incredible Australian stories in the National Library of Australia collection online at www.nla.gov.au/whatwe-collect/oral-history-and-folklore
Asha’s serving up hope on the tennis court
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Asha Munodawafu’s commitment and dedication to tennis and the community has not gone unrecognised with the young athlete being awarded the 2024 Young Volunteer Achievement Award at the recent Tennis NSW Awards.
The Red Bend Catholic College student has been a valuable member of the Parkes Tennis Club over the past 12 months, coaching younger athletes, attending a variety of Tennis Australia Youth Programs and founding The Hey Sis Project with Asha creating an inclusive group of girls full of empowerment and positivity.
The Young Volunteer Achievement Award honours volunteers within tennis who foster relationships within and between their club and the community, recognising the contribution volunteers make to the sport.
“Receiving this award is an amazing feeling. It’s a real honour to be recognised for my contributions to the tennis community, and it inspires me to continue volunteering and making a meaningful impact,” Asha said.
“There are so many young dedicated volunteers out there, so being selected was a pleasant surprise. It just goes to show that hard work and passion don’t go unnoticed.”
Asha is now the NSW entrant into the Tennis Australia Awards for the Young Volunteer Achievement award.
“Being the NSW entrant for the Australian award feels surreal! It’s a huge achievement and I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent our state. It motivates me to continue my efforts and encourages others to get involved.
“Volunteering is crucial for building a strong and supportive tennis community. It fosters connections, promotes inclusivity and helps grow the sport.
“Every little bit of time and effort contributes to creating a welcoming environment for players of all ages and skill levels,” Asha added.
Asha is now busy planning her next Hey Sis Project where everyone is welcome to attend.
The event, ‘Rallying against Breast Cancer’,
will be raising money for the McGrath Foundation.
“We’re serving up hope on the tennis court as part of the Hey Sis Project to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research, support and education.
“I want to raise money for the McGrath Foundation because their mission to ensure that no one faces breast cancer without the support of a McGrath breast care nurse is vital.”
The event is on Saturday, November 9 at the Parkes Tennis Courts from 1-4pm.
The afternoon will be full of matches, inspiring stories and a strong sense of community.
The theme is ‘pink is the colour we care’ so make sure to have your best pink outfit on as there will be prizes for best dressed.
To register and pay $5 per person please contact Asha on 0466417716 by November 6.
If you can’t make it but still want to support the cause head to the Hey Sis Project’s fundraising page via pinkisthecolour.com.au/ fundraisers/httpswwwtheheysisprojectcom
“It’s crucial to raise awareness and funds for this important cause, and I believe that every effort we make can truly make a difference in people’s lives,” she said.
Phil Donato with fellow independent MP Helen Dalton at the recent parliamentary launch of Movember.
Newmont Cadia Deputy GM Jade Little and Nadine Heal, Evolution Mining Operations Open Pit Supervisor (recipient of the 2024 Outstanding Tradeswoman/Operator/Technician in Australian Resources Award) with Phil Donato.
Over the weekend I joined NSW Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib at the Eugowra SES HQ for the official handover of a new Gemini inflatable rescue boat. PHOTOS: Supplied
Asha Munodawafu was award the Young Volunteer Achievement Award at the recent Tennis NSW awards night. PHOTO: Supplied
Olya
Support is welcome but too slow, restrictive
The Resilient Homes package has been described as “too little, too late” for some residents who have already made repairs almost two years on.
Laurie Jones, as well as Pat and Leanne Jones, were among Eugowra residents gathered at Pioneer Park on Saturday to hear the announcement first hand.
“That’s a bit late, putting it out now two years after,” Laurie said.
Pat and Leanne have madeand funded - the repairs their home needed themselves.
On Monday they began the process of exploring the options that will be available to them through the program, but it just took too long to get under way.
They’re not the only ones, says Federal Member for Calare Andrew Gee, who was there Saturday to welcome the housing package but followed it up with a call for more support.
“We are now two years on from the disaster, and many people have already carried out building work which did not include floodproofing because this package wasn’t available then and it’s too late to incorporate it into work now,” he said.
“The retrofitting funding is only for flood-proofing works and won’t cover more general building work that residents need help with such as painting, flooring, plaster boarding and electricals.
“General rebuilding work like this needs to be included with retrospective claims allowed.”
Eugowra local Lyn Ellis raised the need for a disaster recovery blueprint so other communities don’t wait nearly two years to learn what they could have done.
“I know there’s a lot that has to happen - a lot happens behind the scenes - but everybody says
had been to understand the demand for the funding.
What is included in the $40 million Central West Resilient Homes program?
Home buybacks – for homes in areas of very high flood risk, where properties may be eligible for voluntary purchase. There are areas in Eugowra prioritised for this program.
Resilient measures – grant funding of between $50,000 and $100,000 to assist with raising liveable areas of their home, relocating their home, rebuilding a more resilient home or retrofitting their home with more resilient materials and innovative design features. Additional funding through a co-contribution option may also be available if the costs of works exceed the grant funding.
There are significant areas of Eugowra, Forbes and Trundle with indicated eligibility for this program.
Home assessments – a flood resilience expert will help identify opportunities to increase the resilience of a home and provide advice to the home owner. Who is eligible?
The program covers the Local Government Areas of Cabonne, Forbes, Lachlan and Parkes, with mapping indicating eligibility available on the program website or by visiting Reconstruction NSW teams. Go online to https://www.
We are now two years on from the disaster, and many people have already carried out building work which did not include flood-proofing because this package wasn’t available then and it’s too late to incorporate it into work now.
“With the registrations opening on Monday, we’ll get a better idea of the demand for the program, and we’ll continue to work with government,” he said.
- MEMBER FOR CALARE ANDREW GEE
he and ople have out work not roofing ackage wasn’t e too ncorporate it into now OR
(natural disaster) is going to happen again, let’s get ready,” she said.
“Surely you can have a blueprint and just insert the specifics so the next community’s not waiting two years, where half the community has gone ahead and done the renos and fixed their house up because they’re desperate to get back to what’s theirs.”
Community leaders sought assurance ongoing cooperation and further funding would be made available if the $40 million housing package was exhausted.
“We do welcome the commencement of this program, and also encourage both the State and Federal Governments to continue to support from the discussions with our local mayors,” Eugowra resident and president of the Progress and Promotion Association Sean Haynes said.
“We do believe that this pro-
gram will be oversubscribed, and we just ask for their continued support in funding this program to ensure that all of our residents are able to return to their longterm accommodation.”
Cabonne Mayor Kevin Beatty said the journey to date had been long and exhausting and it was a great relief to have the funding rolled out.
“I’ll just echo Sean’s words there, that we really need to have this continuous support from both State-Federal governments to really finish off this whole flood rebuilding,” he said.
“There’s a lot of work to be done, and this is a fantastic start, and hopefully goes a long way into getting our communities not only back to normality, but in a better position for future events.”
NSW Reconstruction Authority CEO Mal Lanyon said part of the community engagement to date
“The scale and complexity of the floods means that the program needs to be designed to actually reflect what the community want.
“We’ve been really clear to say that we wanted to hear from the community, from the community leaders to make sure that that was reflective and the community were at the centre of the program.
“So it has taken time, and for that now we really want to move forward.
“That was the reason that today is a really significant step forward. It’s now about delivering.”
Our State MP Philip Donato, who has chaired the community leaders forum established when the funding was announced earlier this year, acknowledged the time that has passed since the flood events.
“I’d like to thank the Reconstruction Authority for the work they’ve been doing behind the scenes as well to getting it to this stage,” he said at Saturday’s announcement.
“It’s not lost on me ... it’s been nearly two years, but we’re here now. We’re here to announce that the program opens officially on Monday, and it’s a terrific announcement to be finally able to do that.”
For more information visit the NSW Reconstruction Authority website, with applications opening on Monday 28 October via an online form at nsw.gov.au/ resilienthomesprogram
The maps are the same as those brought to the community for consultation earlier this year.
Most of the buyback priorities are in Eugowra and Molong, with no properties prioritised for buy-
back on the Forbes map. There are significant areas of Forbes and Eugowra eligible for funding for flood resilience improvements.
Reconstruction explains the areas at highest risk have been determined based on a range of modelled flood scenarios, which have taken into account:
how often flooding is likely to occur;
Who can help you through the process
Help is available for residents to navigate the application process.
Reconstruction Authority teams are advertising the following locations, and Forbes Shire Council will also be there to support residents.
EUGOWRA
Reconstruction office, 45 Broad Street
October 28 to November 1
November 4 to November 8
November 11 to November 15
Drop in or appointments available: 9am-11am and 1pm-3pm
To make an appointment call 1800 844 085.
FORBES
Pop up at at the council committee room, Town Hall Lane
Friday November 1
Thursday November 7
Drop in or appointments available: 10am-1pm and 2-3pm
To make an appointment call 1800 844 085.
TRUNDLE
Pop up at Trundle Services and Citizens Club, 99 Forbes Street
Thursday 14 November.
Drop in or appointments available: 11am-12pm and 1-2pm
To make an appointment call 1800 844 085.
What you need
The website asks that you have digital versions of the following documents ready to attach to the form:
Evidence that you are the owner of the property (such as a recent rates notice)
Evidence of name changes since you purchased the property, if relevant
Insurance policies from the time of the flood and other relevant correspondence from your insurer, including any documentation regarding claims and benefits received, if relevant
Copies of leases or tenancy agreements, if relevant
Photos of the property before and after the flood
Receipts for any renovations or repairs done after the flood.
depth of the water;
how quickly the water flows;
how much warning time people might have to evacuate;
how severe the impact of the flood/s were on the property, including properties assessed as destroyed, uninhabitable or structurally compromised; and
a homeowner’s individual and exceptional circumstances.
They advise the team is progressively reviewing applications and a member of the team will contact you to discuss your application when it has been reviewed. Homes in the highest risk areas and with the most damage are being assessed first.
If you have started an application form but need assistance in completing it, including uploading documents, you can make an appointment or drop into one of our Community Pop-up locations or call 1800 844 085.
NSW Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib announced the opening of the $40 million resilient homes package in Eugowra on Saturday.
NSW Reconstruction Authority CEO Mal Lanyard said its taken time to get the resilient housing package right, with community consultation through the process, but it’s now open for applications.
Success for Red Bend at Merino challenge
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Students around the region recently competed in the NSW School Merino Wether Challenge in Dubbo.
Local schools that competed in the challenge were Red Bend Catholic College, Forbes High School and Parkes High School.
The Merino wether challenge began in March when 70 schools collected their six Merino wethers donated from Egelabra Merino Stud at Warren.
Groups of students were then required to care for their six Merinos over the last six months, teaching them to lead, weighing the Merinos weekly to gauge their growth rate and deciding their nutritional requirements for the best results.
The NSW School Merino Wether Challenge was held from Monday, August 26 to Wednesday, August 28 at the Rabobank National Ram Show and Sale.
Merino wethers were judged on restocker value, wool value and carcass value.
Red Bend Catholic College achieved fantastic results with their six Merinos.
Red Bend placed second in the combined zones wool value, second in zone 4 restocker value, second in zone 4 wool value and second in zone 4 combined value.
Parkes High School were awarded highly commended on their knowledge and preparation of the wethers and professional engagement with the judges on both judging days during the restocker and carcass classes.
Forbes High School did an amazing job preparing their wethers but were unfortunately just out of the placings for this year’s challenge.
As well as competing in the challenge students had the chance to learn from Charles Sturt University’s Head of Digital and Sustainable Agriculture, see the Global Digital Farm trailer including drones and infrared sensors and take a virtual 360 degree tour of the commercial farm.
Students also participated in industry workshops, including wool classing and carcass evaluation, working dog demonstrations and competed in the young farmer’s challenge.
This challenge provides students with a valuable insight into the industry, educating them about the commercial production of Merino sheep.
Cutest event of the year this Saturday
Don’t forget it is our cutest event of the year on Saturday November 2 – the Teddy Bears Picnic.
Head down to Lions Park from 10am until 1pm to enjoy a fun family day for all. Don’t forget to bring your teddy so they can go on some fun adventures with you. There will be bandage a bear, you can go on a fire truck and enjoy lots of bear themed craft activities.
Children are invited to bring along their favourite teddy bear and participate in the Teddy Bear Parade.
Another favourite is our very own National BBQ Championships next weekend on November 9 and 10.
Have you nominated a team or are you bringing the family along to enjoy the atmosphere over the two days of grilling and smoking competition?
It will be an amazing couple of days with plenty of live music, a bar, food trucks, cooking demonstrations, BBQ stalls and celebrity chef Mat Blak.
We have joined up with the Australian Barbecue Alliance and will be inviting volunteer judges to participate on Sunday November 10. Training will need to be completed on Sunday morning at 8.30am before the event.
Is there anything more Australian than the BBQ championships? While we are talking great Aussie icons have you thought about someone to nominate for the 2025 Australia Day Awards. Nominations are NOW open. The award categories are Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year and Senior Citizen of the Year. Winners will be presented at a gala dinner on Saturday January 25, 2025.
Any resident is eligible for Citizen of the Year, while Young Citizen of the Year is open to residents aged 25 or younger. Anyone aged 65 years or older is eligible for Senior Citizen of the Year.
This is the perfect opportunity for residents who have displayed excellence, made a significant contribution to the community or had an outstanding achievement to gain recognition in their own community.
To nominate go to https://www.forbes. nsw.gov.au/community/our-community/ australia-day and download the nomination form. Copies are also available from Forbes Shire Council’s office at 2 Court Street, Forbes.
Forms can be returned to Council by email at community@forbes.nsw.gov.au or by mail to PO Box 333, Forbes NSW 2871.
The judging panel will be made up of members of the Forbes Shire community.
Skills Academy graduates get on the tools to build Inland Rail
A trio of Inland Rail Skills Academy graduates have used their new-found skills to find employment with Inland Rail contractor Martinus Rail and make their own contributions to the project.
The three graduates – Brett Whyman, Lawrence Button and Hamilton Currie – completed a five-week Certificate II in Rail Infrastructure course through the Inland Rail Skills Academy earlier this year.
“The Inland Rail Skills Academy appealed to me because it gave me an opportunity to put my foot in the door and start in the rail industry,” Brett Whyman said.
The course, provided by First Nations training provider Yakka Training, took place over five weeks in March and April in Wagga Wagga.
The graduates started work with Inland Rail contractor Martinus Rail and were assigned to the Stockinbingal to Parkes (S2P) section during the September possession, a 100-hour period where the rail line was closed and an intense period of construction took place.
“Brett, Lawrence and Hamilton have really shown how the Inland Rail Skills Academy is creating a solid pathway into employment which creates fantastic outcomes for employers and graduate,” Inland Rail Executive Director of Health, Safety, Environment and Sustainability, Stephen Jones, said.
“We are proud to be able to help create a learning environment which leads directly into safe and effective employment for our graduates.”
With their thorough training and preparation, the three were able to make positive contributions to the project, impressing their colleagues and leaders and, most importantly, working with safety front and centre of all that they did.
“We’ve had some really great feedback from Martinus Rail about our three Inland Rail Skills Academy graduates,” Senior Program Skills and Training Advisor Cathy Duncan said.
“They have a good understanding of safety, they’re switched on, they’re punctual, they pay atten-
tion to detail and they’ve been working really well within the teams they’re placed with.
“It’s been great to see them grow within their positions – the world’s their oyster and it’s up to them where they want to go from here.”
Inland Rail is an approximately 1600km freight rail line that will connect Melbourne and Brisbane via regional Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland, enhancing Australia’s national freight network and supply chain capabilities, connecting existing freight routes through rail, roads and ports, and supporting Australia’s growth.
The Inland Rail sections between Beveridge in Victoria and Parkes in New South Wales are prioritised for completion by 2027.
“The advice I’d give to locals about the Inland Rail Skills Academy is: go for it. It’s very rewarding once you get into the industry and the Inland Rail Skills Academy will help you with everything to get into the industry,” Mr Whyman added.
Kadence Cain, Dylan Coady, Oscar Townsend, Claire Wilkins and Mack Pengilly with their Merino wethers being judged at Dubbo.
(Back) Mack Pengilly, Hayley Barby, Bryce Tandy and Oscar Townsend (front) Dylan Coady, Claire Wilkins and Kadence Cain with Red Bend’s second-place ribbons. PHOTOS: Supplied
Inland Rail Skills Academy graduates (from left) Hamilton Currie, Brett Whyman and (far right) Lawrence Button with Inland Rail’s Cathy Duncan, Senior Program Skills and Training Advisor, and Adam O’Sullivan, Rail Superintendent, Martinus (second right). PHOTO: Supplied
MAYOR PHYLLIS MILLER OAM
Kadence Cain, Hayley Barby and Mack Pengilly with the team’s wethers ready for the challenge.
Sharing our story in Water Week
By MARG APPLEBEE
CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE
We were so thrilled to welcome back Kindergarten classes to our Kindy Enviro Morning at Kelly Reserve.
We have previously held water focused days at Kelly Reserve with Kindergarten students from the Parkes Shire, but … this time we could also incorporate the Splash Park and share the water story as well!
We were pleased to welcome Parkes Public School, Parkes Christian School, Parkes East Public School, Holy Family Parish School and Bogan Gate Public School to Kelly Reserve for our morning of fun learning about water in Water Week!
In partnership with Parkes Shire Council, Central West Lachlan Landcare were thrilled to host the day with over 150 students joining in educational activities to learn more about looking after our waterways.
Students participated in workshops covering wetlands, water sources, water use, water in min-
ing, Wiradjuri culture and much more!
Hannah Farrant-Jayet talked to children about our water systems and pollutants, using waterbeads to represent our waste water and water recycling.
Bronte O’Shannessy provided an overview of a beautiful new Splash Park and explained that the components of the splash park represent the many parts of our water system that supports our shire.
Chris Higgins spoke about the
water requirements for mining, transport of water to the mine and how it is managed to support the delivery of the copper, gold and silver concentrate ... I even heard a rumour from one of the children that they are mining diamonds!
Of course, a big thanks to Larry Brandy for also providing a workshop on Wiradjuri culture, which is always fun and interactive.
I had the opportunity to talk about wetlands (and waterways), flagging some of the wetland spaces that we have in our local communities and the important role that they play in absorbing contaminants, slowing the flow of water and providing habitat for local birds, fish and turtles.
All of our presenters backed up after Eco Day the day before. A massive thank you!
We are looking forward to being able to make these workshops accessible to more children in 2025.
More pics via our social media pages @cwllandcare or contact Marg Applebee on 0418 611 053.
This initiative is made possible by the NSW Landcare Enabling Program, a collaboration between Local Land Services and Landcare NSW supported by the NSW Government.
For further information on this article, please go to www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org or intagram, facebook or twitter.
New season lambs lift to sell against weakening trend
MONDAY’S CATTLE SALE
Yarding 1844 (up 581)
Numbers lifted by 581 for a yarding of 1844 cattle.
Quality was mixed with mostly feeder weights penned along with good supplies of prime yearlings.
Heavy grown cattle were limited along with heavy prime cows.
All the regular buyers were present.
Prime yearling steers were 6c dearer, 270c to 367c, and prime yearling heifers were up to 16c better, 230c to 340c/kg.
Feeder steers lifted 5c, 280c to 366c, and feeder heifers were up 6c, 220c to 318c/kg.
Prime grown steers dropped 20c, 245c to 353c, while prime grown heifers were firm to dearer, 240c to 350c/kg.
Cows eased 5c, 2 and 3 scores sold from 180c to 279c, and heavy prime cows, 278c to 287c/kg. Heavy bulls sold to 290c/kg.
TUESDAY’S SHEEP SALE
Yarding 41,000 (up 9850)
There was an increase in lamb numbers and most came from the lift in new season lambs.
10,300 were penned and the quality slipped with most looking dry.
Old lambs were mixed in condition and in the pens.
Trade and heavy weights were well supplied and extra heavy lambs were limited.
The market sold to weaker trends.
New season store lambs sold against the weakening trend and lifted around $9/head selling from $90 to $164/head.
Trade lambs were $5 to $7 cheaper selling between $150 and $197/head and most averaged between 780c and 820c/kg.
Heavy weights were $5 softer ranging from $191 to $255/head averaging 840c/kg.
Old trade weights were back $10 to $12
with the bulk $159 to $195/head and new season shorn lambs reached $215/head.
The bulk of the old lambs averaged 760c to 800c/kg.
Heavy weights were firm to $5 easier $184 to $258/head and averaged 840c/kg, extra heavy lambs topped at $277.60/head.
Heavy Merinos were $10 cheaper and reached $212 and the best price for a hogget was $180/head.
Mutton numbers lifted and the quality was very good with plenty of heavy and extra heavy mutton along with well covered medium weights.
Prices were firm to $3 softer.
Medium weight ewes sold from $58 to $88 and heavy crossbreds reached $128/head.
The best of the Merinos reached $136/head and most sold from 320c to 360c/kg cwt.
FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVESTOCK REPORTING AGENCY
Kindergarten students from around the Parkes Shire attended the Kindy Enviro morning. PHOTO: Supplied
New season store lambs sold against the weakening trend lifting around $9/head.
PHOTO: File
FRIDAY,
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Martin Clunes: Islands Of The Pacific. 2.00 Escape To The Country. 3.00 I Escaped To The Country. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 5.00 Horse Racing. Golden Eagle Day and Eagle Farm Raceday. 6.00 Dog Patrol. 6.30 The Highland Vet. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.
Skyscraper. (2018) 12.35 Late Programs. 6.00 Today. 9.00
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 12.30 Miniseries: The War Of The Worlds. 1.25 Grantchester. 2.15 Question Everything. 2.45 Spicks And Specks. 3.20 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. 4.00 Dr Charles Perkins Oration 2024. 4.30 Boyer Lecture 2024: Professor Anna Goldsworthy. 5.00 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. 5.30 Landline. 6.00 Australian Story. 6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Grantchester. 8.20 Vera. 9.50 Plum. 10.45 Countdown To War. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 5.20 PJ
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Golden Eagle Day and Eagle Farm Raceday. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Great Outdoors. 7.30 MOVIE: Independence Day. (1996) Will Smith, Bill Pullman, Jeff Goldblum. 10.25 MOVIE: The 6th Day. (2000) Arnold Schwarzenegger. 12.55 Taken. 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Blokesworld. 1.30 On Tour With Allan Border. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Week 10. Sydney v West Coast. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Week 10. Carlton v Essendon. 9.15 MOVIE: The Mummy. (2017) 11.25 Late Programs.
v Hawthorn. 5.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Week 10. Port Adelaide v GWS Giants. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 8.30 MOVIE: A Few Good Men. (1992) 11.25 Late Programs.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19)
a possible development that could cause problems if mishandled.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Expect the unexpected this week! Most surprises will be welcome, but even the less-pleasant ones can be handled with patience and common sense.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Learn to listen to the truth, even if it upsets your perception of how you believe things are or should be. Meanwhile, a family matter requires sensitive handling.
12.00 MOVIE: For The Love Of Chocolate. (2021) 2.00
3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 WIN News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 David Attenborough’s Planet Earth III. 8.40 MOVIE: London Has Fallen. (2016) Gerard Butler, Aaron Eckhart, Alon Aboutboul. 10.40 Race To The Melbourne Cup Carnival. 11.40 Tipping Point. 12.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Rebel Wilson’s Pooch Perfect. 12.00 Buffy The Vampire Slayer. 3.00 Bondi Vet. 3.55 First Dates UK. 4.55 Australia’s Got Talent. 6.20 MOVIE: Ron’s Gone Wrong. (2021) 8.30 MOVIE: Easy A. (2010) Emma Stone, Amanda Bynes, Penn Badgley. 10.30 MOVIE: The Favourite. (2018) 1.05 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00
6.00 Getaway. 6.30 A Current Affair. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. 11.30 Horse Racing. Melbourne Cup Carnival. Victoria Derby Day. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: No Time To Die. (2021) Daniel Craig, Rami Malek. 10.45 MOVIE: No Escape. (2015) Owen Wilson. 12.35 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. 1.30 The Garden Gurus. 2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. 2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 4.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 Australia’s Cheapest Weddings. 12.30 Australia’s Got Talent. 2.00 Wife Swap Australia. 3.30 Dancing With The Stars: All Stars. 5.00 MOVIE: City Slickers II. (1994) 7.30 MOVIE: Big Daddy. (1999) Adam Sandler. 9.25 MOVIE: The Bone Collector. (1999) Denzel Washington, Angelina Jolie. 11.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.50 Keeping Up Appearances. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: Elizabeth Of Ladymead. (1948) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Antiques Downunder. 8.30 MOVIE: Sleeping With The Enemy. (1991) 10.30 MOVIE: Suburbicon. (2017) 12.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Shark Tank. 11.30 Dessert Masters. 12.30 10 Minute Kitchen. 1.00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 1.30 The Dog Down Under. 2.00 Australia By Design: Innovations. Final. 2.30 Buy To
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Cross Court. 11.30 Fishing Australia. 12.00 Drive TV. 12.30 The Pet Rescuers. 1.00 Helloworld. Return. 1.30 Rugby League. 3.45 Rugby League. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 The Block. 8.45 60 Minutes. 9.45 9News Late. 10.15 Trump: A Second Chance? 11.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Kitty Is Not A Cat. 9.00 Get Clever. 10.10 My Asian Banquet. 10.40 Farmer Wants A Wife. 12.20 Behave Yourself. 1.30 Home And Away. 3.20 To Be Advised. 5.30 Gold Coast Ocean Rescue. 6.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. 10.30 Law & Order. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 MOVIE: Beach Party. (1963) 3.00 Rugby League. Championships. Women’s. Week 3. 5.30 Rugby League. Week 3. New Zealand v Tonga. 8.00 MOVIE: A Fistful Of Dynamite. (1971) James Coburn. 11.10 MOVIE: Barquero. (1970) 1.20 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Pooches At Play. 12.30 The Yes Experiment. 1.00 Everyday Gourmet. 1.30 GCBC. 2.00 Farm To Fork. 2.30 Basketball. Melbourne Phoenix v Perth Wildcats. 4.30 Luxury Escapes. 5.00 10 News First. 6.00 The Sunday Project. 7.00 Dog House Australia: All Shapes And Sizes. 8.00 The Graham Norton Show. 9.10 FBI. 10.10
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 The Avengers. 11.00 MOVIE: The Maggie. (1954) 1.00 MOVIE: How To Stuff A Wild Bikini. (1965) 3.00 MOVIE: It’s A Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World. (1963) 6.00 Getaway. 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30
MOVIE: The Fugitive. (1993) Harrison Ford, Tommy Lee Jones, Sela Ward. 11.10 Chicago Med. 12.05 Late Programs.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) Unsettled situations don’t get sorted out while you’re catnapping. So stop putting things off and work out a schedule to help get your life back in order.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Someone close might be preparing to move away. Repress the temptation to try to change their mind and instead offer them your loving support.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Be careful about finances this week. Invest only when you’re sure of your facts. In addition, renewing ties with an old friend turns out to be a very wise move.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) A new wrinkle appears in a deal that you thought had been well ironed out. Use this delay to dig for any facts that might still be hidden.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) There is a need for you to be super-wary of making commitments. Take things step by step and reject any attempts to get you to hurry up.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) That cautious, conservative side of you is about to be overwhelmed by your equally strong sense of adventure and curiosity. Go with it!
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Cupid favors both attached and single Water Bearers this week. Help the chubby Cherub do his job by showing a special someone a little more affection than usual.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Changes in your professional life might affect your personal relationships. You need to reassure your loved ones that there is no change in your feelings for them.
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
1 Who wrote “Paradise Lost”, John ... (6)
8 Name the physicist who formulated the theory of relativity, Albert ... (8)
9 What is a more common name for the “doghouse” (6)
10 Name a large glass of beer (8)
11 What is a summerhouse called (6)
12 Which gaseous element is used in orange-red tubular electrical discharge lamps (4)
13 When one directs the preparation of a newspaper, one does what (5)
16 Name an Australian country and western singer, Slim ... (5)
19 To force in or down by repeated somewhat light strokes, is to do what (4)
21 What is quinsy or croup known as (6)
22 What might we call a person involved in country life (8)
23 What is a scarf worn around the neck (6)
24 Name one of the rulers in a form of government in which the power is vested in a few (8)
25 What are the results of producing (6)
DOWN
2 Reykjavik is the capital of which North Atlantic republic (7)
3 What is the straight portion of a survey line between curves (7)
4 Name the US country and rock singer, Willie ... (6)
5 To overwhelm with amazement, is to do what (7)
6 Which former copper coins were equal to onetwelfth of a shilling (7)
7 What is a state of society without government or law (7)
13 Name a renowned US essayist and poet, Ralph Waldo ... (7)
E-QUATIONS
14 Which term describes inactivity or sluggishness (7)
15 Starlike is implied by which word (7)
17 To assign a person to higher status, is to do what (7)
18 What is a large drinking cup, now usually with a handle and sometimes a hinged cover (7)
20 To be unequal quality, or irregular, is to be what (6)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
1 COMATOSE
(a) Eating at the same table (b) Punctuated, as a sentence (c) Unconscious
2 PERPETUITY
(a) A difficulty (b) Endless time (c) A thorough search
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:
Alto violin (5)
Distributed cards (5)
European Space Agency (3)
Four-wheel drive (coll) (3)
Indulgent binge (5)
Morose (3)
Obtained (3)
Outdo (7)
Share transport (3-4)
Small plant spray (5)
Reforms through parliament
Duty MLC for Western NSW Stephen Lawrence MP has welcomed a suite of new rental laws passed in the NSW Parliament.
The current rental market in NSW is the toughest that renters have seen for decades with historically low vacancy rates and median rent prices increasing by some seven per cent over the last 12 months.
The government’s rental package includes:
No grounds evictions will be banned - The banning of
no grounds evictions will give renters and owners more clarity by requiring property owners to have valid reasons to end a fixed term or periodic lease; Rent increases limited to one per year – This will include a limit of one rent increase per year across all lease types – including fixedterm and periodic leases. Previous restrictions did not apply to fixed term leases of less than two years, or when there is a change in the type of lease;
It will be easier to have pets in rentals - A tenant can apply to keep a pet, with landlords only able to decline on certain grounds; Ensuring tenants have a free way to pay rent – Requiring property owners and agents to offer zero-fee ways such as bank transfer and Commonwealth Centrepay; Banning fees for background checks.
Mr Lawrence said the government was following through on an election commitment.
“We understand that renting can be challenging, so these reforms will go a long way to easing the burden for renters across western NSW,” he said.
The changes come alongside other key initiatives including:
Portable bond scheme –This means eligible renters can move homes and digitally transfer their existing bond with them;
Rent Check – An online tool renters can use to help check whether the rent
they’re being asked to pay is in line with the market at www.nsw.gov.au/rent-check
Rental Taskforce within NSW Fair Trading – $8.4 million for a taskforce with investigators, inspectors and support teams to act on serious breaches of rental laws.
The passing of these laws follows discussions with renter advocates, industry stakeholders and tenancy experts, as well as a ‘Have Your Say’ public consultation process which received more than 16,000 submissions and survey responses.
Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said everyone wanted a thriving rental market in NSW where landlords have certainty and tenants security.
“By limiting rent increases to only one a year, banning no grounds evictions, making it easier to have pets in rentals, and ensuring people can pay their rent without hidden fees, these historic reforms will make it easier for renters in NSW,” he said.
Williams’ remarkable comeback one for the ages
By Colin Hodges
To achieve an ambition many thought was virtually impossible, required very hard work and an amazing level of perseverance from 63-year-old jockey Tony Williams to make a return to race riding last year with the crowning glory being a winning double including the Cup aboard Titled Tycoon on Saturday at Harden Picnics.
Incredibly, the brace of winners at Harden came 46 years after his last winning ride in 1978 at a meeting in Victoria.
During an apprentice jockey career cut short by rising weight, Tony Williams from a handful of rides kicked home winners at Woodend, Hanging Rock, Benalla and Swan Hill.
Since then, Williams has become a highly respected figure with his vast experience in other facets of racing both in Australia and overseas seeing his opinion and advice regarding thoroughbred stud operations, breeding and sales sought by numerous leading players in the industry.
The quest by Tony (often referred to as “Tubba“) Williams to make a race riding comeback has been well documented including losing almost 40kgs to ride at Bong Bong picnics in October 2023.
Following the Bong Bong debut he has travelled to often very remote meetings seeking his first winner since the comeback and although well ridden his mounts have simply not been good enough on the day.
At Harden on Saturday even his fellow
jockeys at the meeting were cheering when he returned to scale as the winning rider on the Bill Hayes, Forbes trained Side Cash in the 1300 metres Irving Family-Thompson Rural- Delta Ag Maiden Plate.
Racing in third position on top of the hill about 350 metres from the finish, Side Cash ($2.10) was pushed through a gap between the leaders by Williams and won by almost a length from Toogoodtobeacod (Emily Waters, $2 favourite) and Be Diplomatic (Kate Petersen, $4).
A good field contested the 1400 metres Redbank North & Ray White Real Estate Harden Picnic Cup with the Rod Northam, Scone trained Titled Tycoon burdened with 75kg and conceding up to 13kg to some rivals.
Always travelling well for Tony Williams, Titled Tycoon ($4.80) worked through an opening topping the hill and won by close to two lengths from Notes (ridden by Izzy Neale, $4.20) and Namarari (Emily Waters, $5).
“I am extremely grateful to Rod Northam and Bill Hayes for entrusting me with the rides and feel very humbled by the many congratulatory calls and messages received since the wins,” Tony Williams said.
“I also feel very fortunate to have this happen 46 years after my last winning ride and when I am now almost 64 years of age,“ Tony added.
The next meeting for Tony Williams is the Bong Bong picnics on Friday, November 22 for which he has four early bookings.
6:00pm, Tuesday November 19th at Club Forbes.
Please RSVP to Mark “Squizzy” Taylor 0419 247 972 by 2nd November.
THOMSON, James Anthony “Tony”
2/6/1939 - 23/10/2024 (aged 85) Of Johnson Street, Forbes NSW Passed away peacefully at home. He will be dearly missed by his loving wife and very close family, and all those who knew him.
Husband of: Pamela Delves Thomson (nee Lindeman) Father & Father-in-law to: Jamie & Fiona; Anthony & Lilly; Hamish & Jane; Brian & Muffie Grandfather to: Mackenzie, India, Evie; Libby, Charlie; Audrey, James, Winnie, Vivian; Henry, Bonnie and Dimity Son of: Jim and Marg Thomson, of Gunnedah, NSW (both deceased)
All family and friends of the late “Tony” are warmly invited to attend his funeral service, to be held at St Johns Anglican Church, Forbes. Commencing at 12 noon, Friday 8th November 2024. Followed by interment in the lawn portion of the Forbes cemetery MICHAEL HANLEY’S FAMILY Independent Funerals and Cremations Services of Forbes, Parkes and District
Tom Curtain wows the crowd
TOM Curtain’s Good Life Tour at Bogan Gate drew quite a crowd to the 2 hour show which included Tom with his horses, goats and dogs. They gave a fantastic performance complete with Tom explaining a lot about how he trains his animals, and performing
a number of tricks which wowed the crowd.
Tom’s experience as a singer, performer and animal trainer was evident through the show with his well trained team.
Check out what our photographer Jenny Kingham captured on the night!
Tom Curtain describes the process he uses when training animals.
A good crowd attended the Tom Curtain Experience at Bogan Gate.
Horse and goat were completely comfortable with each other.
Tom Curtain sang and played guitar while riding his bridleless horse around the ring.
Tom Curtain with his amazing obedient dogs.
Alice and Eric Milne with William Said.
Charlotte and Lachie Hutchings with Sally Morrison.
Brooke Matthews and Will Said minded Opal during the show.
Ellie and Sophie Hamilton of Narromine. Zac, Tim, Hayden, Alana and Ava Dunn of Forbes.
Will McGeorge, Tom Mattiske and Sam Burton.
Sally and Artie Wright.Megan and Hugh Nicholson.
Adrienne Bradley and Joan Mill.
och
Tom Curtain sang and played guitar while riding his bridleless horse around the ring.
Norah, Georgia and Caroline Male. Ho w
Tom Curtain’s dogs, goats and horses worked as a team during the performance.
Three-peat for golf winners
l d d h k h h l d h h
Betland and Death take out scratch honours in annual Mixed Foursomes Championship
By SHORT PUTT
The weekend produced sunny weather for golf, which is likely to be the norm as we head into the summer months.
Good grass, smooth greens and shady trees welcome the golfers and help deliver some exciting performances.
On Sunday the 2024 Mixed Foursomes Championships were played, sponsored once again by Blue Sky Outdoors.
Competing in the event were 12 pairs, with some regular pairings and some new blood among the players. But once again it was a champion effort which won the trophies.
The Scratch winners were John Betland and Nicole Death who managed 125.
After 18 holes they held a two shot lead over Niel and Brianna Duncan, with Jayden Pendleton and Heather Davidson a further shot back.
This lead was thanks to a 42/42 split which included nine pars and an unfortunate double-bogey on the 9th.
They defended their 2023 title, and may even claim a ‘three-peat’ with the win in 2020 when the event was last played, having been postponed due to the Covid issue.
The final 9-holes told the story with the Betland/Death pair sharing honours with Pendleton/Davidson by scoring 41’s, while Duncan/Duncan faltered with a 45. This left the Pendleton/Davidson pair as runners-up on 128.
The Handicap results were a repeat of the scratch results. Betland/Death and Pendleton/Davidson had the same handicap of 11.5 but the three shot lead that Betland/Death had after the 18-holes was enough to earn them the winners badge.
Jayden and Heather can rue the ‘9’ they scored on the 15th hole, as compared to the ‘5’ that John and Nicole scored. At least they gave the winners a ‘run for their money’.
The ball sweep went to 114 nett, gleefully received by: 112.5 - W & J Judge; 114 N & B Duncan. The NTP’s went to: 9th Ladies – S Grierson, Men – C Byrnes; 18th Men – J Betland. The alternate tee shot format had a hand in that.
The pair of Andrew Dukes/Sally Crosby has tasted success in this event before. Playing alongside John and Nicole they thought they had a good chance with a better handicap.
But alas they could not fire on the 18-holes, and instead left their best until last but the gap was too much.
Some pundits tipped the pair of Archie Quirk and Sharon Grierson to do well, with both players in form after the champs. But things did not go well from the very start.
The best comeback was made by Warwick and Jean Judge.
Their 18-holes earned them a score split of 49/51, but they nearly shot into Handicap contention with a well-played 46 on the final 9-holes to race up the leader board into third spot.
The ‘worst play’ story goes to the pair who scored a ‘10’ on the 9th, their final hole of the day. The first tee shot found water, then the next shot found water.
This was followed by a chip short of the green, and then a chip over the green. The return chip rolled to the front of the green, and was followed by three putts. That pair remains incognito.
Play on Saturday was the annual ‘Callaghan
of the
Shield’. In a change of format this year it was a 4BBB Stableford Aggregate Medley, where each player’s stableford score countered and then combined for each pair.
This was an initial source of confusion for the 67 players, but everybody warmed to the challenge.
The winners were the pair of Jayden Pendleton and Archie Quirk, who amassed a score of 75 points. Archie was heard to modestly claim it was his shots on the front-9 that got them off to a good start, while Jayden steadied the ship coming home.
Archie had plenty of 3-pointers in his score, while Jayden managed a 4-pointer and numerous 2-pointers.
Runners-up were a pair of Juniors who have taken to the competition play very well.
Charlie Howe managed 39 points and was well supported by Max Hazell on 31 points, which combined for their 70 points.
Both players scored on every hole, with the 9th being their worst hole by recording only a point each. On the other holes they combined 3’s with 2’s to keep the score ticking over.
The Individual Comp was won by Charlie Howe with his 39 points, but only on count back from Archie Quirk. We can see many a duel between these two juniors as they develop their games.
The ball sweep went to 64 points on count
back: 69 – H Callaghan/C McMillan, S Kirkman/T Griffiths; 67 – R Webb, P Tisdell, T Morgan/D McGroder; 66 – A Dukes/K Herbert; 64 – T Howe/R Grayson, J Reid/L Whitfield, D Quirk/A Andrews. The lone visitor was Katherine Jeffress (Cowra) who joined in with Brian Everest and Phil Maher but struggled a bit.
The Super Pin was won by Todd Callaghan with an impressive if askew shot. His ball finished 484 cm from the hole, but nobody could better that or even get close to the ‘usual’ 250 cm range. Unfortunately the hoped for ‘2’ conversion did not transpire.
The NTP’s went to: 9th Ladies – H Davidson, Men – J Pendleton; 18th Ladies A-M Gaffney, Men P Dawson. Only Ann-Maree and Ecky converted for 2’s, and those both on the 18th, with a total of six all day. Kim Herbert scored the lone ‘2’ on the 9th and Dave Mylecharane got the loner on the 3rd.
The course played really well with a return to ‘Preferred Lie on fairways and green surrounds’ only.
The greens were quite smooth which may have contributed to the low number of 2’s. Some, like Luke Flakelar, found that the putts were fast, with an initial missed first putt travelling uncomfortably past the hole for a second putt.
Liam Whitfield was another who found that the greens ‘carried his ball too far’, but then he had too many shots getting to the green in the first place. And then Kim Herbert putted short all day, except for the 9th. In fact putting was the primary malady for the day.
Stephen Uphill had a scare on the 1st hole by travelling miles past with his first putt, then putted short for the remainder of the day. Ev Uphill was unlucky not to score well, with many putts shaving the hole and on one occasion refusing to drop.
Here is the news:
The FGA AGM was held upstairs in the ‘Golfie’ on Wednesday October 30.
An announcement on the Office Bearers will be made after the Management Committee first meeting in November.
The Events Sub-Committee AGM will be held on Tuesday November 5, in the meeting room of FGA House.
The Ladies Committee have held their elections with Sally Perry returned as President and Sarah Black returned as Ladies Captain. Congratulations to all.
The 2024-25 Summer Sixes comp is into its second week with some good first time scores. After this week the handicaps will settle down and the competition between teams will be in earnest.
NISSAN CLASSIC WEEKEND
The Forbes Nissan Classic is on this weekend, and with a good field each day there will not be much chance for social play.
Head Pro Will has advised of a Callaway Equipment Demo day to be held on Wed 13 Nov. Contact the Pro Shop for more details if you are interested.
This weekend is ‘Forbes Nissan Classic Weekend’.
On Saturday a 4BBB (not Medley) will be played for Men and Ladies, while Sunday has the Individual Stroke event.
With good weather this should be a cracker of a weekend.
Thanks to all the sponsors who have made this event possible.
Edwards enjoys veterans golf success on the Forbes course
Steve Edwards is one of the better supporters of twin towns veterans golf and received rewards last Thursday winning with a well compiled 38 points on his adopted ‘home’ course Forbes.
Back home from his winter break and on the ball hitting ‘em well is fellow club member Ken Sanderson runner-up with
35 points on a count-back while Parkes’ Richard Hamilton went home early with the encouragement award.
Nearest the pins, 9th A grade Bruce Chandler (F), B grade Les Little (F), 18th A grade Alf Davies (F), B grade Steve Edwards (F).
Twin town shield, Forbes again best with 205 points to Parkes’
182. In-club raffle winner, Stuart French.
With 31 starters, Forbes 18, Parkes 13, ball sweep to 30 points.
35 Joe Davies (P), 34 Ken Walton (F), Rob Staples (P), 33 Peter Barnes (F), Alf Davies (F),32 Robert J Lea (P), Peter Grayson (F), 31 Alex MacKinnon (F), Stuart French (F), 30 Barry Parker (F), Ted Mor-
gan (F).
Next weeks twin towns 18 holes in Parkes, noms from 9.30am for a 10 am shot gun start.
Reminders – The twin towns vets Christmas party on December 5 in Parkes after 18 holes of play.
The next Lachlan Valley 18 hole comp in Forbes on November 21, the last scheduled for 2024.
Last Tuesday Ted Morgan had his ‘running drives’ working well to win with 28 points from Peter Barnes next best on 27.
Tuesday 12 holes for everyone. What a way to start the day, a stroll in relaxing company with the much sought after coffee and chat to follow. Be at the Pro Shop at 9am for the ball toss.
Winners of the Callaghan Shield Archie Quirk and Jayden Pendleton flanked by Head Pro Will (left) and sponsor Todd Callaghan (right).
PHOTO: Short Putt
Winners
Mixed Foursomes Scratch Championships – John Betland and Nicole Death with Head Pro Will. PHOTO: Short Putt
Nelson in winning form
Competition continues in bowls minor fours championships
He’s doing it again, winning at bowls which is becoming a pleasing habit for the everyoung Cliff Nelson who last weekend skipped for Tara-Lee Shaw, Peter Besgrove and Don Craft in lowering the colours of Dale Maynard, John Cutler, Paul Baker and Al Phillips in Minor Fours.
It was an even money bet before a bowl was rolled but once on the green it all changed with ‘Cliffy’ and his merry team taking the first end with a four, a lead they never surrendered. It did get to 6-5 after five but soon became 14-5 after eight. They just continued to roll along finishing 28-19 after 21 ends played. While there are still a couple of games to be played before claiming the major ‘Besy’ has already been in pencilled in as the winner. Talk about confidence.
Someone who may think differently is the Cherie Vincent skipped team of her husband Max, Bruce ‘Poss’ Jones and Kerry Roach. This week they won 31-19 over Sue Smith, Bob Grant, Sue White and Denny Byrnes.
They won the first end with three to set the scene leading for the entire match, 11-4 after six, 23-8 after 12 and 25-16 at the end of 17. At the pointy end of the championship the fun has just started with some interesting games yet to be played.
SOCIAL BOWLS
Wednesday continues to be popular with eight games last week where card draw winners were Ann Nixon who has more wins than any other mid-week player leading for Ann Mackay and talented skip Trevor Currey winning in 12 ends over Sandra Priest, Robyn Mattiske and Don Craft.
In the finish it was a bit onesided 17-4 after Don’s trio won the first end they sat on one for the next six ends to trail 14-1. ‘All over red rover’. Runners-up were Gail Mc-
Kay and Alf Davies in another boil-over, 29-5 in 18 ends over Cheryl Hodges and Lyall Strudwick. They were never headed, 6-4 after six and 15-5 at the end of 11 never to drop a shot on the run home.
Closer had Irene Riley and Ray Dunstan winning 15-12 in 16 over Therese Davis and visitor Chris Bayley. They got to lead 9-7 after eight then 15-8 after 12 but went of the boil slightly losing the last four ends 4-0.
Colleen Liebich and Steve Trowse scraped home 18-17 in 20 over Geoff West and Kerry Dunstan courtesy a two on the last end. In saying that Geoff and Kerry did lead prior with a four on the second last. Never over until that lady sings.
Ron Thurlow and Geoff Coles showed some steel to win 19-7 over Helen Bailey and Bill O’Connell in 16. Somewhat a popular number of games played last week, leading 9-3 at half time.
Dianne Trowse and Sue White had all the answers winning 20-14 over Lesley Dunstan and Noel Jolliffe in 20 leading 11-5 after 10.
Garry James and ‘that man’ Cliff Nelson won 17-15 over Steve Frost and John Kennedy in 20. 5-all after seven 11-10 after 14 then 16-12 after 17 just scraping home.
In the last, Fred Vogelsang and Peter Barnes were kept in check winning 19-17 in 20 over Sue Smith and John Gorton. They were in total control early, 9-1 after five, 16-3 after 12 with their only score on the run home, a three on end 17 to just hang on. Raffle winners Steve Frost and Sue Smith.
Thursday is also proving popular with seven games last week where resting touchers were recorded by Tara-Lee Shaw, Clint Hurford, John Taylor, Glen Kearney, Billy Cowell and Wayne Burton while raspberries were tasted by Wayne Burton and Max Vincent.
The unclaimed jackpot stood at $600, on reason for such Thursday support. Play to be in with a chance of taking home the cash.
Winning rink went to Paul Atkins and Mick Merritt over Dale Maynard and Peter Besgrove in 22 ends, 23-18. A close game from the start, 3-all after three, 6-all after seven and 16-all after 16 setting up the 7-2 finish.
Max Vincent and Al Phillips won 24-12 over Bill Lonney and Cherie Vincent in 20 after it was 7-all at half time. A couple of fours and a three pushed the score out for the winners.
Helen Bailey and Viv Russell were comfortable 27-12 winners over Tara-Lee Shaw and Lawrence Jackson in 22 ends leading 12-6 after 11 then 20-6 after 16.
John Taylor and Lyall Strudwick won ran out comfortable 30-10 winners in 22 over Ron Thurlow and Clint Hurford well in command at 18-6 after 12.
Only one shot separated Billy Cowell and Brian Asimus winning 20-19 in 22 over Wayne Burton and Glenn Kearney. 2-all after four before 12-2 after seven. It became even stevens with both putting in winning plays highlighted by a three on the last end to Wayne and Glenn to just fail.
Allan Hilder and Kerry Roach breezed home 30-12 over Peter Hocking and Denny Byrnes in 22 after it was 11-all after 12 with the only point conceded caming on the last.
In the final game Angie Dwyer and Cliff Nelson won 20-9 in 18 over Joyce Boland and Bob Grant. It was 5-all after eight but as expected ‘Cliffy’ pulled out the big ones when needed.
Last Sunday morning bowlers had the second round of the T and M Tyres sponsored three week competition.
Not only that, a jackpot of $600 (unclaimed) was also on offer enticing plenty to play in the morning sun.
Winning rink went to Jax
Murphy and Viv Russell 17-8 over Helen Bailey and Shayne Staines in the scheduled 16 ends. They had to finish best after a refresher at half time behind 6-5.
Losing rink went to Tyler Murphy and Scott McKellar who went down 11-18 playing Ron Thurlow and Lyall Strudwick who were behind 0-7 after four before dominating on the run home.
Jason Howell and Al Phillips won 18-13 playing Angie Dwyer and Mick Merritt just in front 8-6 at half time.
Next door Grahame Riley and Peter Mackay won 18-7 over Kelly Murphy and John Cutler in command at 13-1 after nine ends.
Terry Murphy and Cliff Nelson got the better of Doug Miller and Peter Greenhalgh by one, 16-15 courtesy three on the last two ends.
Lloyd Nelson and Peter Tisdell won 14-12 playing Paul Bray and Chris Bayley, again due to a blistering finish, 4-0 in the last two ends.
In the last Jamie Dukes and John Kennedy won 14-10 over Tyler Biles and Allan Hilder. Another to finish best, 6-0 in the last four ends. Raspberry to Angie Dwyer, resting touchers Al Phillip, Jamie Dukes, Peter Mackay, John Kennedy and Scott McKellar. Chooks to Al Phillips, Mick Merritt, Lyall Strudwick, Jason Howell, Jamie Dukes, Paul Hodge, Tara-Lee Shaw and Terry Murphy.
NOMINATE NOW
Only a few spots vacant for the Lindsay Willding, Clive Herbert and Greg Parslow weekend of bowls to be played Saturday and Sunday November 9 and 10.
2-bowls triples, open draw. $6000 in prize money, not to be missed.
Get your noms in now.
- FORBES SPORTS AND RECREATION CLUB
Davidson a winner at ladies golf
By THE BIRDIE
Highlights from ladies golf this week begin with the Julie Scott and Mandy Tooth sponsored Stableford match played last Wednesday October 23rd. Wednesday was also Pink Day for breast cancer so our ladies dressed accordingly.
Division 1 winner was Heather Davidson carding 38 runner up was Kerry Stirling with 36.
Shirley Davies was our Division 2 winner carding 35 on count back over Ann-Maree Gaffney also with 35.
Ball-sweep winners were Kerry Stirling, Jennifer Fletcher, Ann-Maree Gaffney, Sarah Black and Robin Lyell.
Nearest to the pins were Colleen Bratton on the 9th and Heather Davidson on the 18th.
Congratulations to John Betland and Nicole Death for winning both scratch and net in the mixed Foursomes played Sunday October 27 from runners up Jayden Pendleton and Heather Davidson also in both scratch and net the rest of us were just along for the ride.
Matches set down for play this week include the Nissan Classic with the 4BBB for men and ladies played on Saturday November 2 and the 18 hole stroke played on Sunday November 19.
Wednesday November 6 is 18 holes off Stroke, Monthly Medal and Putting Comp sponsored by Bokeyar Electrical with play in two divisions. Until next week good golfing everyone.
Croquet club honours member Tony Thomson
By ELVY QUIRK
As I write the Forbes Croquet column this week my thoughts turn to our amazing scorekeeper and publicity officer, Tony Thomson, who passed away last Wednesday night.
Tony will be remembered by our Croquet Club as a well respected and caring member as he so dutifully kept score sheets and delivered the news to the local papers.
Although Tony’s illness over the past few months slowed him down he was such an inspiration playing croquet with us only the week before his untimely passing.
To Pam and her lovely family, members of the Forbes Croquet Club extend to you all our deepest sympathy and our thoughts are with you all as you try to come to terms with the loss of a much loved family man.
As a mark of respect last
Saturday Croquet players wore black arm bands and stood in silence to remember.
Tony may you Rest in Peace after a “life well lived”.
Aussie Croquet was played on Saturday October 26 and it was so lovely to have the
Thomson grandchildren join us for a game together with a friend Abey Downes.
There were 29 players in attendance and two games were won by Noel Jolliffe, Phillip Moran, Kevin Rubie, Bill Scott, Peter West and David Williams whilst all three
games were won by John Cole, Frank Donohoe, Allan Jones and Elvy Quirk. 14/13 scores recorded by Allan Jones def Marie Spry, James Thomson & Phillip Moran def Vivian and India Thomson 14/12 James & Vivian Thomson def David West & Evie Thomson, Allan Jones & Vivian Thomson def Russel Anderson & Abey Downes, Rex Toole & India Thomson def Noel Jolliffe & Russell Newton 14/11 MacKenzie Thomson def Jane Hanbury & John Allegri, Elvy Quirk & John Farah def May Jones & Rex Toole, Elvy Quirk & May
Jones def James Thomson & Robin Pols, John Cole & Peter West def Carolyn Neilsen & John Allegri.
Many other scores of 14/10 and 14/8 also recorded on a lovely warm sunny morning. Golf Croquet was played on Tuesday with 40 in attendance and a special welcome to a new player Russel Newton.
Two games were won by Russel Anderson, Jill Cripps, Irene Ford, Noel Jolliffe, May Jones, Merv Langfield, Ray Martin, Phillip Moran, Fay Picker, Robin Pols, Bill Scott, Lyall Strudwick, Bruce Toole, Rex Toole and Kevin Wenning.
All three games won by Frank Donohoe, John Farah, Colleen Liebich, Vince Roberts, Kevin Rubie and Peter West.
7/6 scores recorded by Bill Scott & Phil Moran def Noel Jolliffe & Alister Lockhart, Vince Roberts & John Job def Rex Toole & Fay Picker, Jill Cripps & Helen Lupis def Irene Ford & Bruce Field, Colleen Liebich & Merv Langfield def Margaret Dent & Mal Smith, Kevin Rubie & Bruce Field def Lyall Strudwick & Neil Gilmour, Colleen Liebich & John Farah def Elvy Quirk & David Williams, Frank Donohoe & Rex Toole def Carolyn Neilsen & John Job, Kevin Wenning &
Bill Scott def Margaret Dent & Sally Perry, Irene Ford & Robin Pols def Margaret Dent & Allan Jones, Colleen Liebich & Vince Roberts def John Job & Bruce Field, Kevin Wenning & John Farah def Wayne Wright & Neil Gilmour.
There were a 10/3 recorded by Ray Martin & Mal Smith def Marie Spry & Alister Lockhart. Also quite a number of 9/4, 8/5 scores recorded.
Croquet continues to be a popular sport and should you be interested in a game come down to Halpins Flat on a Tuesday at 8.45 am to get your name in the draw. Play commences at 9 am.
Please note the new starting time as from Saturday November 2 will be 9am. Our birthday luncheon will be held at the Forbes Sportsman Hotel ( Golf Club) on Tuesday November 12 and your names need to be recorded asap.
Ann-Maree Gaffney, Kerry Stirling and Rose Carroll all dressed for the ladies golf pink day for breast cancer. PHOTO: The Birdie
The Thomson Grandchildren-James, Evie, India, MacKenzie and Vivian. PHOTO: Elvy Quirk
Juniors continue winning run
Lachlan district rugby league’s junior women continued their winning run with the last of three home games on Sunday.
The under 12s side drawn from the Parkes, Forbes and Condobolin area recorded a 50-nil win over the Goannas at the Red Bend ovals to strengthen their position at the top of the competition table ahead of the Panorama Platypi.
The undefeated under 12s have five wins and one draw to their credit heading into the final round of competition, with their first away game in a month.
Zoe Field scored three of the home side’s nine tries, with Rubie Haworth and Pearl Karatiana bagging two each and Lucy Fairley and captain Indy Maynard one apiece.
Lachlan’s Under 14s were also dominant in the third week on their home turf, winning 44-4 to take top place on the competition ladder over Goannas.
Katie Galvin opened the scoring for Lachlan before halfback Rubie Coote snagged back-to-back tries.
Harpa Martin, Laila Hartwig, Miley Nash and Piper White all crossed the try-line for one each.
Our 16s were also solid with a 4816 win in Round 6 of the short Spring competition on Sunday.
Grace MacGregor scored five of Lachlan’s nine tries, with Matilda Stitt crossing the try-line twice.
Leni Constable and Ruby Jones scored one apiece and Jones added the extras nailing five of the conversions.
The win brings the Under 16s to second place on the ladder, behind the Vipers, sharing equal points with Panorama Platypi and Mudgee Dragons.
The Goannas did have the win in the Opens competition on Sunday, with the visitors this time 10-40 strong winners.
This Sunday, Lachlan in Coonamble against Cougars.
NRLW in Elizabeth’s sights as talented sisters sign with Bulldogs
Elizabeth MacGregor has signed with Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs as they prepare for their first NRLW season in 2025.
The Parkes talent is off to induction with the club’s Under 19s this weekend, with her sister Grace also signing in to the club’s Under 17s.
It’s an exciting time - and after spending much of the year sidelined with an ankle injury that required surgery Elizabeth is anticipating the pre-season.
Elizabeth had a brilliant start to the year, scoring three during her Tarsha Gale Cup debut for the Sydney Roosters Indigenous Academy.
Unfortunately injury struck, but her recovery has been solid and with her HSC exams nearly complete at the College she’s ready to take the next steps in her rugby league career.
Pre-season will run through the Summer in preparation for competition from February.
The NRLW season and Harvey Norman Premiership follow.
“Pre-season will be hard down there after being out for so long,” she acknowledged, but the opportuni-
ties as the Bulldogs build toward entering the NRLW are exciting.
Tayla Preston was the club’s first signing, forward Holli Wheeler confirmed in September.
“They’ve been playing NRLW for a while so it’ll be good to have players to learn from that have the experience being key playersand the Sharks who were in the grand final,” Elizabeth said.
“It’s really cool to train and play with them hopefully.”
Elizabeth’s talent was personally identified by Head Coach Blake Cavallaro in Parkes as a 15-year-old.
She’s still only 18 years old, but the coach believes the fledgling fullback will have plenty of impact on the Club’s inaugural NRLW squad.
“She can play anywhere between fullback, wing and centre and her arrival to the squad will help to inject a spark that will positively influence her teammates,” he said.
Elizabeth will move to Sydney in the new year, with plans to study teaching at university as well.
Grace is completing Year 10 at the College and about
to start her senior studies as she begins training with the Bulldogs Under 17s - she has signed with the club for 2025 and 2026. The halfback and lock has had a pretty full on footy season, also with experience in the Roosters’ pathway, Western Rams Lisa Fiaola as well as the NSW Combined Catholic Colleges side.
“I played with girls from everywhere in NSW (with CCC), and met a few girls who are in the Lisa Fiaola squads up there, it was really good to meet them,” Grace said.
Red Bend has been a nursery for rugby league talent for many years and the MacGregors have had the encouragement of Pat Rudd in pursuing opportunities through school.
Grace has already had one camp with Bulldogs, completing gym and field testing with the 20-strong squad before a game against Samoa.
The commitment to training and travel to pursue their sport has been immense and both girls thanked their parents for getting them between school and Sydney for training and games.
Annabelle Price for Lachlan Under 14s at their Red Bend home game on Sunday.
Rubie Coote scored two tries for Lachlan Under 14s in their win over Goannas. PHOTOS: Renee Powell
Lachlan Under 12s captain Indy Maynard gets away to score a try.
Zoe Field scored two tries in Lachlan Under 12s win over Goannas.
Grace and Elizabeth MacGregor are kicking off with Bulldogs in coming weeks.
Toast of Bedgerabong
Relay team brings home silver after great run in NSW PSSA small schools Nigel Bagley Trophy
Bedgerabong Public School’s relay team has brought home NSW PSSA Athletics silver.
The 4 x 100m relay team steamed home for second place in the Nigel Bagley Trophy event for small schools before a crowd of thousands at Sydney Olympic Park.
Yes, the very same track where earlier in the month Bedgerabong’s Nedd Brockmann ran 1000miles for charity.
Hunter Maxwell, Georgia Pengilly, Roman Symonds and Locky Veigel are the toast of their rural school after medalling in the event.
The four were selected from their performances at the combined small schools carnival in Forbes, with small schools able to enter mixed teams of students aged eight to 13 for this.
From there, Bedgerabong had to earn their way through the Lachlan carnival to qual-
ify for western region, where they not only won their final but set a new record for the event.
They took another two seconds off that when they hit the track at Sydney, to the cheers and screams of their classmates watching online from Bedgerabong.
The atmosphere in the State stadium was incredible, making the whole experience all the more exciting for the team.
“It was first time going to state for most of us so it was really exciting,” Hunter said.
“There were big crowds.”
Both individual speed and fitness and the team’s baton change-overs were critical to their success, and it was something the students worked hard on, with the help of Maree Hodges whose own children went from Bedgerabong to State.
Mrs Hodges worked with the students and they also did
their own training at home to ensure they were ready for the State championships.
“Mrs Hodges helped us a lot, we’re very thankful,” Hunter said.
His teammates added that the heat and final at State level were very competitive - and there were some very fast runners on the track.
But the mood among the athletes was good.
“There was really good sportsmanship from every-
one,” Georgia added.
After the success of the run, presentation was another very special occasion with the team invited to step onto the podium to be presented with their medals.
While two team members, Roman and Locky, are in Year 6 Hunter and Georgia are in Year 5 and are already setting their sights on their athletics training for 2025 - and they might just have inspired some of their classmates too.
Our successful Bedgerabong Public School relay team of Roman Symonds, Hunter Maxwell, Locky Veigel and Georgia Pengilly.
