Forbes has been named a finalist for the 2025 Tidy Towns Sustainability Awards.
Heralded for our heritage, nature and public art, Forbes has been shortlisted for the overall award in the 5001 - 12,000 population category of this year’s Keep Australia Beautiful honours.
Forbes Shire Council had the pleasure of hosting judges considering category awards on Monday.
Winners will be recognised when Parkes and Keep Australia Beautiful host this year’s awards from 10 to 12 October, with finalists in individual categories to be revealed closer to that date.
Lake front gets a lift
Parks and paths around Lake Forbes are getting a multi-million dollar lift with work funded by the central west’s flood recovery package under way.
The first signs of a $3.96 million project to upgrade lake-side parks and amenities have started with Lions Park, with preparations for drainage improvements the first step in a major transformation for this popular local venue.
Earthmoving equipment has moved in over the past
Multi-million dollar project for fun and flood resilience
week, clearing the area.
Forbes Shire Council has revealed the project will also deliver an expanded playground with soft-fall rubber surfacing, upgraded all-abilities carparking, new pathways, and refreshed landscaping.
These upgrades will include construction of more flood tolerant materials and methods to reduce the impacts and maintenance be-
fore and after floods.
Sections of the park have been fenced off while work is under way, but the cafe does remain open to customers.
The improvement works are part of the Forbes Lake Activation parks and amenities resilience and betterment project, jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments under the Community Assets Program after the 2022 flood events.
Apex Park is next in line for works, with detailed designs being developed, the council again planning earthworks and drainage improvements, redevelopment of the amenities, and playground improvements.
The footpaths, edge beams and carparks will all be concreted.
Similar is to come for the ski dam park, where visitors will see construction work
beginning at the beach and playground area. Walkways do remain open.
Flood recovery and resilience funds are also being used to upgrade footpaths and the drainage network at the Dreaming Centre end of the lake.
A total $2.87 million has been allocated to concrete footpaths, culverts and pipes, as well as installation of additional shelters and seating.
The new playground design for Lions Park.
acting general manager Richard Jane and director planning and growth Mathew Teale.
PHOTO: Forbes Shire Council
Council comment
By MAYOR PHYLLIS MILLER OAM
I’m very proud to share that Forbes has been named a finalist in the 2025 NSW Tidy Towns Awards.
Running since 1981, the Tidy Towns program recognises and celebrates the outstanding efforts of communities right across regional NSW. It shines a light on the projects and initiatives that not only improve the environment but also strengthen community pride and connection.
The winners will be announced at the 2025 Tidy Towns Awards Weekend hosted by Keep Australia Beautiful NSW from 10 –12 October 2025 in Parkes.
I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has played a part in Forbes reaching this stage. Being named a finalist is a true reflection of your efforts and passion for our town.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Our lakes, rivers and wetlands are among our community’s greatest treasures. But we know drought can have a big impact on how we use and enjoy them.
With support from the Future Drought Fund, Council is developing Recreational Waterbodies Drought Management Plans to help protect these special places during dry times.
To make sure these plans truly reflect community needs, we want to hear from you. Tell us how you use our waterbodies, how drought has affected those activities and your ideas for keeping them thriving.
I encourage everyone to take a few minutes to complete the survey at www. forbes.nsw.gov.au and help shape the future of our much-loved waterbodies.
SIGN UP FOR BBQ CHAMPIONSHIPS
The National BBQ Championships is returning to Forbes this October, and team registrations are now open!
Last year more than 1,500 people joined us for great food, entertainment and the friendly Forbes atmosphere, with teams travelling from across NSW, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia.
This year we’d love to see even more local teams take part. Whether you’re a pitmaster or a backyard barbeque fan, it’s your chance to showcase your skills and be part of a fantastic community event.
Spots are limited. Register now via Council’s website and help make this year’s competition the best yet!
WHAT’S ON in and around
Forbes
WELCOME TO FORBES
Thursday, 28 August
Come along to our Welcome to Forbes event and meet your new community! Forbes Shire Council hosts this chance to connect with locals, learn about services and activities, and discover everything our town has to offer. Join us for a relaxed, family-friendly evening with light refreshments on Thursday, 28 August at SYLO Cafe and Eatery, Rankin Street from 5.30pm. Please RSVP by Thursday, 14 August to events@forbes.nsw. gov.au or 6850 2300.
SMALL WINEMAKERS WINE SHOW
Friday, 29 August
The NSW Small Winemakers Show has released 2025 dates and this year’s public tasting is on Friday, 29 August at Forbes Town Hall. The gourmet wine presentation dinner follows on Saturday, 20 September. Tickets online through 123tix.com.au
RESILIENT HOMES EXPO
Wednesday, 3 September
The NSW Reconstruction Authority is hosting a Resilient Homes Expo at Eugowra Showground on Wednesday 3 September, 4pm-7pm.
The Expo is for Resilient Homes Program homeowners and community members who want to make their homes more flood resilient.
Come along for information about: the Resilient Homes Program grant process; development approval processes; how successful resilient building and relocation projects can be delivered.
Homeowners and business representatives can visit information stands and speak with representatives from councils, RA, SafeWork NSW, Building Commission NSW, and various industry associations and businesses interested in resilient building services.
COMMUNITY FETE
Saturday, 6 September
Forbes Uniting Church is excited to announce a community fete at the church in Browne Street. There will be community stalls, live entertainment, coffee and food as well as a silent auction between 9am and 3pm.
TRUNDLE BUSH TUCKER DAY
Saturday, 6 September
Season your camp oven and get your dancing boots ready for a day full of country music and bush cooking in Trundle. This year Casey Barnes will be headlining the popular event with The Bushwackers and The Alternators also gracing the Trundle stage. Get your tickets now at www.123tix.com.au/
JOURNALISTS
er-day-2025
FORBES SHOW
Saturday, 13 September
Put Saturday 13 September in your diary, it’s the 149th Forbes Show. The one-day show format introduced in 2024 is back in 2025, with plenty on. There will be entertainment and rides, animal nursery, fireworks, agricultural exhibitions and so much more. You can follow them online www.facebook. com/ForbesShowNSW and the Advocate will have more to come closer to the date.
EUGOWRA SHOW
Saturday, 20 September
Head to Eugowra Showground for a fun-filled day for the whole family. While the Show Society is organising all your favourite attractions and events, now’s the time to plan your entries.
AGEING WELL IN FORBES
Thusrday, 25 September
Join Western NSW Local Health District and local services at Club Forbes from 10am to 12.30pm to look at the services, programs and supports available to help you age well in Forbes. Chat about planning, speak with allied health professionals, meet with community services and volunteer groups and fine support to navigate the aged care system.
CLUB FORBES FIRST ANNUAL LADIES
Renee Powell 0448 238 023
rpowell@midwestmedia.com.au
Brendan McCool 0448 238 254
bmccool@midwestmedia.com.au
CLASSIFIEDS (02) 6342 1044
classifieds@midwestmedia.com.au
ADVERTISING
Michelle Brown 0429 421 044
www.forbesadvocate.com.au
mbrown@midwestmedia.com.au
Saturday, 27 September
From 12.30pm through to 4.30pm this will be an afternoon of style, music, food and fundraising all in support of White Ribbon. Champagne on arrival, live music and a threecourse lunch. Bookings essential through 123tix.com.au
STREET DREAMS
Saturday, 27 September
Forbes is set to glow with colour and creativity when the brandnew Street Dreams Festival lights up the town this September. This free event, from 5pm to 9pm, will transform Harold Street, Victoria Park and Town Hall into cultural spaces filled with interactive light displays, creative installations, live performances and delicious food options.
FORBES MOTOR SHOW
Sunday, 5 October
Save the date, the Forbes Motor Show is returning to South Circle Oval in on Sunday 5 October 2025. Plan your entries now in bikes, cars, boats, vintage machinery, trucks and tractors. Gates open 8am for registration. There will be food, drink and merchandise stalls. Entry will be just $2 an adult, $1 a child with monies donated to local and regional charity groups.
CANOLA CUP FAMILY PICNIC DAY
Monday, 6 October
Eugowra Harness Racing Club knows how to host a great event
and the Canola Cup is the pinnacle. This great family picnic day is back again on the October long weekend Monday. While the horses go round on the track, there’s live music, great prizes for fashions on the field, free dodgem cars, jumping castle, and face painting. It all happens at Eugowra Showground Paceway from midday.
MEET THE MAKER
Sunday, 12 October
Join Forbes Visitor Information Centre for the second annual Meet the Makers event: go behind the scenes and enjoy a taste of locally-sourced delights, straight from the producers. it’s on from 10am to 1pm.
TRUNDLE PINK NIGHT
Friday, 17 October
Trundle will be turning pink this October. To celebrate their 10th anniversary Trundle Pink Night will be holding their biggest and boldest Pink Night yet! Join them for a night of fun, flair and fundraising as they celebrate a decade of coming together to support a cancer-free future. There will be prizes, raffles and an auction that you will not want to miss. Entry is free from 5pm at the Trundle Golf Club and make sure to dress in pink. If you can’t make it on the night support the cause by heading to www.doitforcancer.com. au/fundraisers/trundlepinknight
CLUB FORBES TASTE ON TEMPLAR
Saturday, 1 November
Templar Street will be transformed for this special annual event, with three-course meal complimented by regional wines, boutique beer, cider, soft drinks and water.
Tickets are online now through 123tix.com.au so book a table, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the year with your team.
STREET DREAMS SATURDAY 17 SEPTEMBER PHOTO: JESS THOMPSON
“We know the community’s been looking forward to this new mobile site and I’m pleased to say we’ve completed construction and been able to bring this site on-air,” Mr Taylor said.
“Having mobile connectivity is becoming increasingly important in our everyday lives.
Top quality from small wineries
Forbes is raising a glass this week as host of the 33rd annual NSW Small Winemakers Wine Show.
With 488 entries from 90 wineries, the show is once again putting the spotlight on the remarkable quality and diversity of wines coming out of small winemakers from crisp, cool climate whites to bold reds and sparkling varieties.
While judging was still in progress on Tuesday afternoon, chair of judges Mark Richardson said they were awarding a good percentage of
medals right across those classes.
“The big thing with this show is the diversity of NSW regional styles - from cooler to warmer and everything in between,” Mr Richardson said.
“We get to see that here and it’s lovely.”
Numbers were down a little on last year, simply a sign of the times, but the judges said entries were quality.
“It gets a little bit better every year and certainly the alternate whites
- the Italian, the Spanish varieties,” Mr Richardson said.
Mr Richardson has been working with a team of 12 judges, gathered from Canberra, Mudgee, Orange, Sydney and the Hunter Valley. There were both winemakers and style judges on the panels.
Wine show president Mark Watts said judging was on track to see about 10 per cent gold medals awarded.
Most entries are from the 2023 and 2024 winemaking years, with
classes for the mature wines and the first of the 2025 unwooded whites coming through.
The community has two opportunities to sample this year’s wines, starting with the public tasting night this Friday with tickets just $30.
The gourmet wine dinner follows on Saturday, 20 September, at Club Forbes, with five courses to be paired with trophy-winning wines.
Tickets to both events are available now online through 123tix.com.
au
Council to hear Vintage Village visions
By RENEE POWELL
Councillors have invited two applicants who submitted expressions of interest to build accommodation and a conference centre to share their visions for the former Lachlan Vintage Village site.
The council called for expressions of interest for two parcels of land: one 2.31 hectare block for a motel / conference centre; and one 3.28 hectare block for a caravan or holiday park.
They’ve now invited the applicants to present to council before their September meeting, to outline their vision for the develop-
ment; their site servicing and infrastructure requirements; and their intended timeframe.
The site was home to the tourist drawcard, the Lachlan Vintage Village, from the mid-1970s, officially opened by then Prime Minister Gough Whitlam more than 50 years ago.
Forbes Shire Council purchased the acreage in 2017 with a big vision for it.
They’ve since relocated the Visitor Information Centre to the original building that was once the 17-stand Trigalana woolshed but was rehomed to the Vintage Village site during its heyday.
In releasing the expressions
of interest, Forbes Shire Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM said a strong market demand signalled the need for new accommodation options in town.
“Forbes has maintained consistently high occupancy rates for some time, supported by a notable rise in visitation,” she said.
“This trend highlights a compelling opportunity for further investment in accommodation.
“By capitalising on the steady stream of visitors to the information centre, there is significant potential to transform the area into a dynamic, fully serviced destination precinct.”
BLOCK TO BE SUBDIVIDED
The council is also to subdivide a 4000 square metre block near the corner of Young and Berkley streets off the Lachlan Vintage Village site.
Staff recommended the new lot’s northern boundary follow the same alignment as the adjoining Berkley Street road reserve, to future proof any expansion of Berkley Street westwards into the Vintage Village site.
“Feedback from a local real estate agent on the proposed lot size confirmed that a lot of this size will be sought after in the current market,” the report said.
“This new site will also improve capacity and mobile coverage and provide additional triple zero connectivity for users on other mobile networks in times of emergency.”
The latest investment builds on the $11.8 billion investment Telstra has made in its mobile network nationally, including $4.3 billion in regional areas over the past seven years.
“We’re incredibly proud of our network which is the largest and most reliable mobile network in Australia – delivering more coverage than anyone else,” Mr Taylor said.
Vintage Village site is taking shape with councillors to hear from two parties who submitted expressions of interest for accommodation on the site.
Fundraiser soars past $25k
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
An emotional day for the Woodhouse family has made a difference in many lives across Forbes and surrounding communities with their fundraising reaching more than $25,000 to support mental health services including Kids Helpline and Headspace.
Contributing to the fundraising was a well-supported auction night and day full of activities at the Forbes Netball Courts.
The auction was held at the Forbes Bowling Club with standout items such as four signed NRL jerseys and a netball dress.
“Some things went for amazing value,” said Jason Woodhouse, who led the event.
“The auction raised around $14,000 and we sold about $1000 in raffle tickets. Total raised for the night was around the $15,000 mark.”
health community on educating the awareness and the Lions Club did an amazing job with the sausage sizzle,” Jason said.
The following day mental health services and activities lined the Forbes netball courts in aims to raise awareness and more funds for mental health services.
“There was a lot of happy kids, a lot of good giveaways and really good support from the mental
“It was a great result for the first time we’ve ever done it.”
Beyond the fundraising the weekend’s Fly High for Mental Health events were about educating and raising awareness about mental health and mental health services.
“Was it an emotional day for me
Expressions of Interest will be accepted until 5pm, 19 September 2025. For further information please contact Council’s Manager Corporate Business on 6850 2300 (Option 4).
and my wife? Yes. There was mixed emotions, at times there was heartbreak and at times there was joy at seeing happy faces and people getting educated,” Jason shared.
“If it helps someone else not go through the pain that we’re going through, then it’s worth it.”
As well as the weekend’s events, paper planes have been for sale in Bernardi’s and Coles stores for the month of August and will be on sale
at those venues until 31 August.
The month long fundraising has already raised more than $25,000 and counting with paper plane sales still to be added to the total.
“I’m very happy with how the paper planes have been received,” Jason saisd.
“These are people taking money out of their own pocket and buying a paper plane to support someone else.
“I’m amazed at the kindness of people not only from Forbes but from other towns as well.”
From all of Jason’s efforts this month he has learnt the devastating reality that kids are struggling and so many people have been impacted by mental health whether it impacts them personally or someone close to them.
All money raised from the events and the sale of paper planes goes directly to Kids Helpline and Headspace.
If you would still like to donate you can do so by buying a paper plane for $2 at at Bernardi’s or Coles stores or donate from afar at https://shoutforgood.com/fundraisers/fly-high-for-mental-health
“I’m absolutely appreciative of the town on what they’re doing for
us and especially Bernardi’s and Coles and the businesses that have donated,” Jason added.
Headspace was one of the services represented on Sunday, it’s a youth-friendly free service for anyone aged 12 to 25 who are having a tough time, or would just like to improve their health and wellbeing. They’re located at 264 Peisley Street, Orange, with open hours Monday to Friday details online at https://headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/orange/ You can phone or email (02) 6941 9025.
Talk2MeBro volunteers were down at the courts with ice baths, their next men’s catch up is at the Youth and Community Centre this Sunday, 31 August, from 7.30am. The ladies catch up is on the last Sunday of the month.
More resources are available to help those who need it: Call Lifeline 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 or chat online; Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467; Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 or https://kidshelpline.com.au/ Parent Line 1300 1200 52; Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636; and MensLine Australia 1300 78 99 78.
Proposed Road Closing Under Section 38B Roads ACT 1993 (For Part of Jack Leaps Road) In accordance with the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given that Forbes Shire Council proposes to close the council public road being part of Jacks Leap Road intersecting Lot 1 DP 132347, Lot 1 DP 120173, Lots 19, 20, 21, 24, 26, 27 and 28 DP 750157. Upon closure of the road, council intends to sell the land to an adjoining land owner. Interested parties are invited to make submissions concerning the proposal to the General Manager, Forbes Shire Council, 2 Court Street, Forbes or emailed to forbes@forbes.nsw.gov.au within 28 days of the date of this advertisement. Submissions close 5pm, Thursday 18 September 2025. Please note submissions made to Council are considered public information under the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009. Once the submission period is completed, Council will consider all duly made submissions before deciding whether to continue with the road closure proposal. For further information please contact Council’s Manager Corporate Business on 6850 2300 (Option 4).
Proposed Road Closing Under Section 38B Roads Act 1993
(For an unformed Road off the Escort Way In accordance with the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given that Forbes Shire Council proposes to close the council public road being the unformed road adjoining Lot 1 DP 800042, west of Lot 204 DP 1296888 and south of Lot 4 DP 1088455 off The Escort Way. Upon closure of the road, council intends to vest the land in the Crown.
Interested parties are invited to make submissions concerning the proposal to the General Manager, Forbes Shire Council, 2 Court Street, Forbes or emailed to forbes@forbes.nsw.gov.au within 28 days of the date of this advertisement. Submissions close 5pm, Thursday 18 September 2025. Please note submissions made to Council are considered public information under the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009. Once the submission period is completed, Forbes Shire Council will consider all duly made submissions before deciding whether to continue with the road closure proposal. For further information please contact Council’s Manager Corporate Business on 6850 2300 (Option 4).
Youth Service Providers Event
Forbes Shire Council and the Forbes Community Drug Action Team invite youth services and the community to participate in Youth Connect.
This event is aimed at building social cohesion for young people and linking young people with services available. This event is scheduled for Tuesday 30 September from 12pm-3pm at Stephen Field/Forbes Skatepark. This event also includes NRL Clinics, Inflatables, Giveaways and Food Vendors. For more information, please contact Council’s Community Relations Officer on commuity@forbes.nsw.gov.au
Ryan.
Lola Hodge sent her paper plane into flight in the competition.
Lachlan Gilchrist ready to launch his paper plane at Sunday’s family fun day.
Max Ridge and Karla Osborne painting rocks with the Kids Helpline number.
Eyes watching Spring skies
Long-range outlook holds promise after drier winter for much of shire
Eyes are on the skies at the moment as crops transform the landscape into a green and gold patchwork.
More than 95 per cent of the shire has been classed as drought affected under the Department of Primary Industries’ combined drought indicator, with two of three key indicators now dipping into the lower third of long-term data.
But many crops are established and ticking along and with the Bureau of Meteorology forecasting a wetter than average spring, the message for now is one of monitoring and planning - monitoring crops, pastures and stock as we wait for those broader rainfalls to arrive.
Rainfall was below average in June and July - it’s been damp and showery, but without big totals - but the Department of Primary’s Industries drought indicator mapping takes much more than rainfall into account, agricultural climatologist Dr Anthony Clark explained.
Soil moisture levels, pasture and crop growth are also considered in light of local records to monitor the effectiveness of rainfall.
“Drought’s really complex, different things can drive it,” Dr Clark said.
“We’re starting to see quite steep
declines in soil moisture, around the Forbes region and probably down south of Forbes.
“We’ve had a little bit of rain but it’s that real steep decline in soil moisture that’s the concern.”
The good news is that the Bureau of Meteorology’s outlook for Spring indicates most of eastern Australia is “very likely” to be wetter than average this Spring.
Sea surface temperatures are forecast to remain warmer than average in waters to Australia’s north, east and south-east, the Bureau’s forecast for September to November says, with a negative Indian Ocean Dipole increasingly likely in the coming months.
But as we wait on those rains the advice is to monitor both crops and pastures closely, as the DPIRD’s monitoring is in place to give those earlier indicators.
One of just eight high quality monitoring sites in NSW is in the Forbes shire, with rain gauges, soil moisture probes and climate stations to provide insights.
MONITOR CONDITIONS
The different season means growers should be monitoring their own conditions and plant development
closely, says Tim Wright from Local Land Services.
For straight croppers, Mr Wright’s message is to monitor crop health particularly as Spring conditions arrive: monitor for fungicide requirements and when you do spray, make sure you’re targeting your main production leaf.
“Don’t spray on the calendar, spray on your crop stage,” he said.
Those who would usually have pulled stock off their grazing crops early August might actually have a later window to work within.
“The people that are grazing crops are seeing the lure of high commodity prices – lambs are worth a fair bit, cattle are worth looking after,” Mr Wright said.
“My message is, because we’re running late and been colder than normal, our crops aren’t as advanced this year as they would normally be from other years.
“They need to have a good close look at their crop stages where they’re grazing their cereals.”
This message is just as important when it comes to pastures, with preserving them for feed also key.
Peter Matthews is a technical special grain services with the depart-
ment and he’s overseeing cropping trials through our region – cereals, canola and faba beans among them from north to south and west of Forbes.
While there have been stormbased events that mean conditions vary farm to farm, he’s certainly seeing crops running later than usual given that delayed start to the season.
“There have been some rain events – north of Forbes seems to be doing better than south of Forbes – but what we haven’t seen since the breaking rain in May is a large, widespread rain event,” Mr Matthews said.
There’s been enough moisture in the small, showery events to give the crops a start and keep them ticking along, but they’ll be looking for the forecast conditions soon.
CONTRIBUTE TO THE DATA
From the DPI’s perspective, Dr Clark would love more people to contribute to monitoring through the NSWDPI Farm Tracker app, available for download on smartphones and devices.
The app helps farmers keep track of their own data, but also contributes to the department’s understanding of what’s happening on ground as conditions can vary so much.
Orange ED on list for Safe Staffing Levels
Orange hospital’s emergency department is on the State’s list to roll out Safe Staffing levels.
Recruitment is well under way for additional nurses in regional and rural NSW, the government announced last week, as they plan to introduce staff reform to another 27 hospital emergency departments including Orange.
The staffing boost enables the rostering of a one-to-one nursing care ratio for generally occupied ED resuscitation beds on all shifts, and one nurse to three generally occupied ED treatment spaces and ED short-stay unit beds on all shifts.
Health Minister Ryan Park said Safe Staffing levels were about delivering safer, better care for patients while making sure nurses have the support they need on every shift.
“For too long, hospitals across regional and rural NSW have been left behind, but this reform is changing that – with hundreds of additional nurses already recruited and more on the way,” Mr Park said.
“This is about building a stronger health system for patients, families, and staff, no matter where you live.”
The Safe Staffing Levels Taskforce was established to oversee the rollout of the Government’s commitment of 2,480 FTE over four years. It includes key leaders from the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA), NSW Health, and local health districts.
Phase one of Safe Staffing Levels commenced in the level five and six emergency departments, which treat the most critically ill patients, and is being implemented progressively across other key areas in a phased approach.
Canola is flowering and winter crops are transforming the region into a patchwork of green and gold.
Council to introduce policy for lighting up Town Hall
Lighting Forbes’ historic Town Hall with colour of a night has become a beautiful way to honour members of our community or shine a light on a cause.
As requests increase, the council is putting some guidelines around how and when they’ll do it and staff presented a draft policy to councillors at their August meeting.
“Council receives multiple enquiries annually to light up the Town Hall in various colours for both community-led initiatives/memorials and national awareness either initiated by request to Council by the organisations themselves or via community requests,” manager community and tourism Nina Hooper said in the report.
“The Forbes Town Hall is an iconic building in the Central West of NSW,
widely recognised and frequently photographed and is the jewel in the crown of Forbes’ historic CBD precinct.”
The lights themselves are activated by staff via remote control after sunset, when the street lights come on.
Over just two months the Town Hall was lit up for the passing of the Pope; the 12-month anniversary of the passing of Molly Ticehurst; Huntington’s Disease; domestic and family violence remembrance day; and road safety week.
Lighting Town Hall will be permitted for significant local, state or national events or awareness campaigns under the policy.
Lighting for memorials and individual acknowledgment may be considered on a case by case basis.
Staff recommended that routine and regular requests - significant local, state or national events or awareness campaigns - come to the Manager Community and Tourism, whilst with approval for memorials and individual acknowledgment would be at the discretion of the General Manger in consultation with the Mayor if required.
The council will develop a list of priority light-ups and publish them on their website, and there will be an application form to fill out and submit for additional causes to be recognised.
Under the policy, campaigns must not promote political parties, campaigns or messaging; or project or promote content reasonably considered offensive, discriminatory or otherwise inappropriate.
Legacy looking for local support
LACHLAN LEGACY
What is Legacy Australia?
It’s common knowledge that the RSL supports returned servicemen and many know about the ‘Soldier On’ organisation which supports returned service personnel, but how many people know about Legacy and what it does?
Legacy Australia is there to support the families of Australian Defence Force personnel who have lost their life or health through service in conflicts overseas since 1923.
It was founded by an ex-serviceman, fulfilling a promise made to a dying mate in the trenches of World War 1.
This promise to look after his mate’s wife when he returned from war took on a greater meaning as the need for support for bereaved families of veterans was so great.
Today, Legacy has grown to include some 4,000 volunteers helping to support more than 40,000 widows and 1,800 children of veterans who have lost their lives or health due to active service overseas.
What does this mean locally?
Forbes Legacy was formed in 1947 to support the widows and families in communities across the Bland, Cabonne, Cowra, Forbes, Lachlan, Parkes and Weddin Shire Council areas.
Today this area goes under the banner of Lachlan Legacy.
Lachlan Legacy President Jenny Friend said there are 72 beneficiar-
ies within Lachlan Legacy, receiving support.
Forbes Legatee and Lachlan
Legacy Vice President, Martin Cunningham, said, “In Forbes there are
18 beneficiaries being supported by Forbes Legacy volunteers, with another 12 in Parkes and four in Peak Hill that Forbes volunteers also look after.”
So how does Legacy Australia support widows and families of veterans?
Legacy Australia provides support and or counselling for young
families and children through relief for financial hardship; advocating for entitlements; helping families to thrive despite their loss and assisting with children’s education and development.
Another service is to ensure support for aging and vulnerable widows.
Legacy is committed to ensuring no widow of a deceased veteran will ever face life’s challenges alone by protecting older widows; combating social isolation; living at home with dignity; health and security; and providing relief from financial hardship.
Caring for dependents with disabilities is another support service offered by Legacy by making sure there is enduring care; lifestyle and independence skills; social inclusion; and assist with the transition to residential care if needed.
Legacy Week is the main fundraising time for this uniquely Australian non-profit organisation.
This year Legacy Week is from 31 August to 6 September 2025.
Volunteers will be selling promotional items (badges, pens and bears) across the country during Legacy Week.
In Forbes volunteers will be selling items at Bunnings and Club Forbes. Parkes Services Club, Peak Hill Ex-Services and Citizen’s Club, Trundle Services and Citizen’s Club and Condobolin RSL and Cowra RSL will have Legacy merchandise available.
Lighting Forbes’ historic Town Hall with colour of a night has become a beautiful way to honour members of our community or shine a light on a cause.
PHOTO: Forbes Shire Council
All roads return to Red Bend Community
By RENEE POWELL
Old friends, familiar faces and plenty of memoriesthat’s what greeted hundreds of past students as they returned to Forbes for Red Bend Catholic College’s annual reunion weekend.
Flipping through yearbooks, touring the College grounds, and sharing new and old stories, the gathering brought together alumni from across the decades.
For the Class of 1975, this year marked their 50-year reunion and Peter Fisher was delighted to have a group of about 24 get together for the milestone.
Spending six years as a boarder, off the family farm at Yarrabandai, Fisher captained cricket and rugby league teams and had plenty of stories to tell over a big weekend of reconnecting with former classmates.
With classes celebrating 10, 20, 25, 30 and 40-year reunions as well, there were plenty of connections to be made.
Brother John Hourgan came all the way from Cairns, and school teacher Bernie Ryan also joined the reunion.
“Everybody’s happy to see everybody and catch upsome of the stories that come out, it’s unbelievable,” Mr Fisher said.
The Class of ‘75 were
among the last to graduate from the Marist Brothers College, which then combined with Our Lady of Mercy College in Forbes to become the coeducational Red Bend Catholic College.
Touring the College on Saturday, Mr Fisher couldn’t help but be impressed by the transformation that’s taken place on site and the opportunities offered to today’s students.
“Ten years ago I thought, ‘how good’s this’,” he said of his visit for their 40th reunion - and it’s only improved.
“It’s a magnificent place out there now.”
It’s not just the facilities,
it’s the opportunities ranging from agriculture to apprenticeships now all on offer through those high school years.
Some things haven’t changed: the College birthed its share of outstanding footballers out of that era - although the guernseys are a bit different now.
“We had the old saddle guernseys back in the day - a light blue saddle with dark background, with a lace-up front on it, the old style,” Mr Fisher remembered.
He was playing college rugby league through the years it transitioned from weight-based to age-based,
and the teams used to travel surrounding areas a lot.
“The Forbes invitational was a huge event,” he said. They also had the College band, and would travel to Singleton for cadets.
Mr Fisher still had the Marist Brothers trophy he won as open age athletics champion, which he brought back on the weekend.
Another highlight was the musical production Godspell, open to the community over several nights.
“It was a fantastic event, Godspell,” Mr Fisher said.
The alumni loved touring the College, seeing how it’s changed and developed,
sharing stories of their time there and hearing plans for the future.
The Class of 1975 went on to dinner at Club Forbes, but also spent some time at the Sport and Recreation Club and Vandenberg Hotel, sharing good memories and what they’ve been up to in more recent years.
“It’s well worth doing and it’s well worth catching up,” Mr Fisher said.
Red Bend is encouraging its alumni to keep in touch with the College. Find the link through the Red Bend Catholic College facebook page or go online to http:// bit.ly/46AaCyx
safety among our council’s agenda items
for State
Water security and disaster recovery are two of the items on Forbes Shire Council’s agenda as the sector prepares for its annual State conference.
Each council has the opportunity to bring motions forward for Local Government NSW support.
Local councillors resolved to call for:
Water security: long term investment in regional water infrastructure and drought proofing; Disaster recovery: streamlining disaster recovery funding approval processes and support for local councils; Workforce and skills: incentives to attract and retain skilled workers in regional councils.
Community safety: funding for local crime prevention and community safety initiatives.
Council is also calling to keep excess funds from unpaid rates and land sales, rather than have these go into the Office of State Revenue; and for appropriate council support resourcing in the use of NSW Planning portal.
NSW Small Winemakers Wineshow FORBES
The annual Public Tasting will be held on Friday August 29 at the Forbes Town Hall. Tickets are $30 per person The Gourmet Wine Dinner will be held on Saturday September 20 from 7pm at Club Forbes and features a five course meal with trophy winning wines. Tickets are $130 per person.
If you buy your tickets for both events in one transaction, you will receive $10 off.
Tickets available at www.123tix.com.au/events/49153/ nsw-small-winemakers-wine-show
Catch and release advice on Belubula
By DAN RYAN
Fresh contaminated foam and high levels of ‘forever chemicals’ in the upper Belubula River have sounded the alarm for landholders along the banks of the Belubula River.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) are man-made chemicals used in everything from firefighting foam to shampoos, leather cleaner and hydraulic fluid.
The chemicals take a long time to break down in both people and the environment.
Following the detection and testing of another potentially toxic foam spread along the river, the NSW Environmental Protection Authority issued further ‘catch and release’ guidance and signs along the upper Belubula river.
The EPA identified PFAS in several species of fish, including European Carp, Golden Perch and Murray Cod at both locations.
As a precaution, fishers are advised to consider catch and release only in the Belubula River, Cowriga Creek and Cadiangullong Creek.
A NSW EPA spokesperson said monitoring had occurred along the river since May 2024, following strict national guidelines.
“In response to this monitoring, the EPA has imposed new licence conditions on the Environment Protection Licences of Cadia Valley Operations, Australian Native
Landscapes (Blayney) and Blayney Landfill, requiring each site to undertake detailed investigations to assess potential on and offsite impacts,” the spokesperson said.
“We have also recently finalised precautionary dietary advice for fish caught in some parts of the Upper Belubula River following testing of several species of fish earlier this year.”
“However, the presence of PFAS in foam, surface water samples or fish does
not necessarily mean there is a risk to livestock or human health.”
The spokesperson clarified that animals like cattle and sheep are exposed to PFAS and PFOS in different ways to fish and other aquatic creatures.
“Foam in water can collect and concentrate chemicals from the surrounding environment to much higher levels,” they said.
“This means that higher levels of a chemical contaminant in a foam compared to
the level in the surrounding water, does not necessarily result in additional risk to human health, if contact is avoided.”
The news of yet another PFAS and PFOS detection in the waterways was enough to lead Canowindra wine grape grower and landholder Sam Statham to action.
Mr Statham held a community information session on Sunday, August 24, which saw about 70 landholders attend.
Two farmers, a pharmacist flying outback for cause
A 15-day fundraising flight across remote Australia has begun for three central west pilots.
Forbes’ flying pharmacist
Jack Buckley and farmers
John Johnson (Grenfell) and Brad Shephard (Forbes, Cowra) are taking on the Outback Air Race to raise funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
Their journey began on the weekend at Yulara, near Uluru in central Australia, and the view from the air is just spectacular.
They’ll finish next week in Carnarvon, WA, after visiting Alice Springs, Daly Waters,
Kununurra, Broome and other locations along the way.
The race is a time trial designed to keep competition fair regardless of aircraft size or speed and together the trio is hoping to raise $100,000 for the RFDS.
“As a healthcare professional I have incredible respect and admiration for the work of the Royal Flying Doctor Service - what they do is extraordinary,” Jack Buckley, managing partner of Flannery’s Pharmacy in Forbes, said.
The Outback Air Race takes to the skies every three years, challenging teams of
pilots and their passengers to fly over some of Australia’s most geographically challenging and stunning landscapes whilst raising critical funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS). All funds raised support the RFDS nationally to continue providing emergency aeromedical and primary health care services to people who live, work or travel in rural and remote Australia.
Follow their journey on facebook at Outback Air Race with 3GenPharmers, and look forward to future editions for the full story.
MATSURI
You may be eligible for assistance from the Resilient Homes Program to increase the resilience of your home. Even if your home wasn’t severely damaged or destroyed, simple improvements could minimise the impact of future flood events.
Brad Shephard, John Johnson and Jack Buckley are winging their way across beautiful, remote Australia to raise funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Donate by scanning the QR code.
$15.7m road safety upgrade
Trundle has hosted celebrations of completion of $15.7 million worth of works to upgrade The Bogan Way.
The Bogan Way is a regional road link that provides a vital north-south road train route through the Narromine, Parkes and Forbes shires.
The works have transformed more than 25 kilometres of this vital regional freight route.
It supports transport operators connecting producers to grain silos and the Central West Livestock Exchange, and is a vital haulage and residential access route.
The completed works enable higher productivity vehicles, including AB Triples, to safely use the route, thanks to upgrades that addressed pavement rehabilitation, widening, realignment, culvert replacement, and the installation of wire rope barriers.
This included three projects funded by more than $4.5 million from the Australian Government under the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, and more than $9 million from the New South Wales Government over the past four years.
routes like The Bogan Way would help local industry, reduce travel times and making journeys safer for everyone.
installing compliant road batter slopes, and five culverts in the southern Tullamore area;
Parkes Mayor Neil Westcott said the funding enabled the council to deliver works that would otherwise have taken years to complete.
“Grant funding was instrumental in delivering these significant upgrades to such a vital freight link that services not just our shire, but the wider region and the state,” he said.
NSW Minister for Roads and Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said improving key freight
“These upgrades are a great example of what can be achieved when all levels of government work together to deliver for regional NSW,” Ms Aitchison said.
The seven projects along The Bogan Way included:
Realigning and widening the intersection at The Bogan Way and McGrane Way intersection north of Tullamore, with major pavement reconstruction, widening of two culverts, and installation of a traffic island and lighting;
Widening 14.1 km of road pavement, correcting poor pavement conditions through rehabilitation,
Widening a narrow road formation and completing pavement correction at the entrance to Trundle;
Widening The Bogan Way from the railway crossing to Botfield Road;
Correcting poor pavement conditions, completing shaping and drainage works at Bogan Gate;
Upgrading intersections for both Nelungaloo Road and Monumea Gap Road intersection to improve safety;
Upgrading 3km of road south of Parkes, north of Crooked Creek Bridge, widening the road pavement and addressing the stormwater issues.
Parkes Shire Council Director of Operations Logan Hignett said the
project had not only delivered a safer and more productive freight route, it was a significant step forward in how the council approaches road construction across the shire.
“By introducing machine guidance technology, we upskilled our teams and delivered more precise outcomes, improving efficiency and reducing material wastage,” Mr Hignett said.
“Just as importantly, community feedback played a key role in shaping the design at each location, particularly around drainage and flood resilience.
“Local knowledge was critical to getting those solutions right, which was an important lesson when delivering capital works of this magnitude.”
Show schedule is out now
Plan your entries, it’s almost Show time in Forbes.
The Show is on Saturday, 13 September and schedules are now available online and at the Forbes Handicraft Centre. All your favourite competitions will be up and running again this year, from the agricultural through to fine arts and fruit and veg, cut flowers to cooking.
There are sections for preserves, plants, patchwork and much more - and it all contributes to making a great display at the show.
Maybe you’d prefer to teach your pup a trick and participate in the pet show? Bring your furry friend on the day. Ute barrel racing is also back at this week’s show with prizes for the winners.
A huge day of family fun is planned for the 149th Forbes Show, with more details to come as the day approaches. Tickets are available online through 123tix.com.au or at the gate.
Adults will be $15, children $10 (under fives free), concession $10 and family $30.
*On selected brands and items only. We stock a wide range of popular brands, including:
Town,
FORBES UNITING CHURCH FAMILY FETE SATURDAY, 6 SEPTEMBER.
Church to host family fete for Father’s Day weekend
Forbes’ Uniting Church is throwing open the gates for a community fete on Saturday, 6 September.
The church community is excited to welcome the town to share a family event in the grounds right in time to enjoy the fete atmosphere with dads and grandads, or to secure a Father’s day gift.
Everyone is most welcome. The fete will be open 9am to 3pm, with the barbecue cooking all day.
There will be a wide range of activities and stalls for the public to enjoy including a mighty book stall with bargains especially in the children’s books section.
There will be produce for sale, plants, baking, barista coffee, handmade crafts and guessing competitions.
Guess the weight of the chocolate to try to win a hamper of chocolate for Father’s Day!
A number of community groups are involved in the day including the Eugowra Men’s shed folk as they have a stall to showcase their activities.
A program of live entertainment has also been arranged so that music fills the grounds while people wander the stalls.
There will be seating for those that feel like sitting to listen to choirs, the Town Band and watch drama items.
A feature of the fete will be a silent auction.
There have been at least 30 items donated to the auction by businesses, artisans and families. This support for the auction is really appreciated.
There will be such a great variety for visitors to place a silent bid on during the day from 9am to 3pm: everything from fishing rods to floor rugs, fruit trees to bags of chook feed, artwork to gift vouchers.
There is something for everyone - a chance to bid on a gift for dad for Father’s Day perhaps.
Of course, if the weather is a bit damp the event will be able to use the church hall and the church building itself so that fete goers can still enjoy the fun of the fair.
COWRA COWRA
SATURDAY 4 OCTOBER 2025 TH SATURDAY 4 OCTOBER 2025 TH 12:45pm - 9:30pm 12:45pm - 9:30pm
Bell Beats Festival 2025 is free and fun for all ages!
Enjoy live music, tasty local food, art displays, and a full day celebrating what makes Cowra great.
Author a special guest at August Eugowra VIEW Club gathering
EUGOWRA VIEW CLUB
Eugowra VIEW Club members met last Monday at the Fat Parcel for their August meeting.
Due to the absence of President Irene, Ali conducted the meeting.
Resolutions: Prior to the voting on the three resolutions presented, Andy explained the ideas behind each resolution and the process for voting. Votes were then collected to be sent to VIEW before the Convention.
Kay needs to order gifts for the ‘thank you’ to our guest speakers.
We needed a quick way of raising funds to cover these costs.
A very animated and talkative discussion on ‘100 clubs’ raffles etc it was discovered that we actually had sufficient funds donated then and there to cover the funds needed.
Reports were presented by the Treasurer, Program Officer, Publicity Officer and Learning for Life Officer.
Guest Speaker: Helen introduced our guest speaker who was Pat Grayson.
Pat is a newcomer to Eu-
volved with the community and has joined the garden group and the men’s shed.
He is dyslexic and is an author. He hopes he can start a writing group here. He has
and are available for sale. They can be found online.
Helen thanked Pat, on behalf of members, for his wonderful presentation.
The next meeting is 15 Sep-
Community gardens supporting CanAssist
Back on 10 May, the Forbes Riverside Community Garden held a pre-Mother’s Day fundraiser, with the proceeds of a morning tea, the sale of cut-flowers, plants, produce and assorted pottery - donated by Serendipity Pottery - to go to Forbes CanAssist.
Some lucky mothers received both flowers and vases in which to place them.
A raffle was conducted,
with first and second prizes of pots finished in mosaic and donated by Gardens member, Marion, and handicraft items for third prize created by Gardens member Morgan.
Thanks go to everyone who contributed to the day, and on the day, in whatever way. It was a group effort for a popular cause.
At the end of the day the Garden had raised $1500 for Forbes CanAssist.
On Saturday 9 August Sheryl and Rex Barton, on behalf of Forbes CanAssist, attended to receive the cheque. The Forbes Riverside Garden will have a stall at the upcoming Forbes Show, but in the meantime a variety of tomato plants, apple cucumbers plants, zucchini plants and capsicum plants are available at the garden, along herbs, flowering plants, hedging plants and farm trees.
RIVERSIDE COMMUNITY GARDEN NEWS
Red Bend’s big reunion weekend
Red Bend Catholic College hosted more than 100 returning students on the weekend, with tours of the school as part of their reunions for some milestone years.
Classes celebrated everything from 10year to 50-year reunions on the weekend, with many graduates making their way back to Forbes for the occasion.
The captains from each of the graduating years take on the task of contacting everyone and organising the reunion for their year, with support and assistance from the College.
(Forbes) and Luke Darcy (Forbes).
with his wife Courtney and son James.
RIGHT: Shaun Moss graduated in 1995, and travelled from Hong Kong with Tania Murray for the (Gilgandra), Sammy Webb (Newcastle) loved looking at their old boarding dormitory.
The Class of 2000 (front) Rebecca Green (Canberra), Bridgid Edwards (Canberra), Michaela Laneyrie (Dubbo), Krystal Eppelstun-Lee (Canberra), Casey Dunn (Orange) and Luck Charlton (Dubbo) and (back) Phil O’Brien (Dubbo), Lara Cook (Dubbo), Tony Higgins (Melbourne), Mitch Glasgow (West Wyalong) and Justin Williams (Bathurst).
Paul Smith graduated in the class of 1995, and came back to the College with his wife Brenda and daughters Grace and Ava.
(Melbourne).
PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham
MEMBERS OF THE CLASS OF 1995 TOURING THE COLLEGE ON THEIR REUNION WEEKEND.
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
1 When one communicates by mail, one does what (6)
8 To detain in custody, is to do what (8)
9 Name another term for a helix (6)
10 To grow in the manner of plants, is to do what (8)
11 Which term describes that which has bounds or limits (6)
12 Which South American bird resembles the African ostrich (4)
13 What are moneyraising functions (5)
16 Which device produces a high-intensity beam of radiation (5)
19 What is a single thing (4)
21 What does one get when one touches a live electric wire (1,5)
22 Name an expression of merriment (8)
23 Which fatty substance is used as a lubricant (6)
24 Name an alternative term for refinement (8)
25 What is a body of principles belonging to one subject (6) DOWN
2 To which animal kingdom does the rattlesnake belong (7)
3 What is a white ant also known as (7)
Letters
Some
4 Which metallic element has the symbol Ag (6)
5 Name a magazine of arms and military stores (7)
6 What are tracts of land completely surrounded by water (7)
7 What is a whole number called (7)
13 Name a particular cricketer (7)
14 Which term describes a veteran actor (7)
E-QUATIONS
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
15 What is a subordinate division of a title (7)
17 To accomplish, is to do what (7)
18 What might we call one who offers an apology (7)
20 Name an object that is aimed at (6)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
WHICH WORDS
BIYWORD
Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.
CLUES:
Cabin (3)
Casualty (abb) (3)
Metal clasps (5)
Of the stomach (7)
Recline (3)
Sister (coll.) (3)
Song (5)
Standby tyre (5)
Units: barometric pressure (5)
Window covering (7)
Celebrate NAIDOC in Parkes
By CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE, MARG APPLEBEE
Nominations are open for the 2025 Parkes NAIDOC Awards.
A special inclusion for the event will be the presenta tion of NAIDOC Awards to local people who have been supporting and encourag ing building a rich cultural framework within our com munity as well as celebrating young and emerging leaders within our community.
Nominations in the following categories are open: Youth (Primary); Youth (Secondary); Elder; Non-Indigenous; Sportsperson; Creative Talent; Caring for Country and Culture; Education; and Innovation.
Nominations can be made online at https://form.jotform.com/252171270354046.
riginal culture and achievements.
We are also fortunate to have received funding through Aboriginal Affairs NSW and much in-kind support from our local community.
NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth.
You can support and get to know your local Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities through activities and events held across the country.
Torres Strait Islander Australians.
The Parkes NAIDOC event will provide free activities for families, including face painting, weaving, jumping castles, performances and other activities.
We will also have lots of food to share on the day. To top off our day, we will be sharing beautiful NAIDOC cupcakes made by Johnson’s Bakery.
We are seeking involvement from local organisations to be involved in the day.
Central West Lachlan Landcare (CWLL) are thrilled to be working with representatives from the Parkes Wiradjuri community to deliver the 2025 Parkes NAIDOC Celebration.
Nominations close on Friday, 29 August at 5pm. Paper copies are available at Parkes Shire Library.
The Parkes NAIDOC event will be held on Saturday, 20 September 2025, between 10am and 2pm at Bushman’s Hill Wiradjuri Amphitheatre.
CWLL are pleased to be able to contribute coordination support to bring
the event together with the fabulous committee of contributors lead by the Parkes Wiradjuri representatives. Northparkes Evolution Mine are the major sponsor for the event, which will welcome all members of the community to celebrate abo-
NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee.
Its origins emerged with Aboriginal groups in the 1920′s, seeking to increase awareness in the wider community of the status and treatment of Aboriginal and
If you are part of an organisation that provide a service locally that would be relevant to the ethos of the event, please make contact with me.
For further information on this article, please go to www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org, twitter, Facebook or Instagram @cwllandcare
Pork prices improve $180-200 selling up to $446/head
CATTLE SALE
Monday, 25 August
Yarding 1646 (up 172)
Numbers lifted this sale with agents yarding 1646 head.
Quality was mixed with both well bred and secondary cattle penned.
There was some handy lines of feeder cattle available along with the better processing types.
The usual buyers were present and competing. Middleweight yearling steers to feed held steady to range from 450 to 540c/kg.
Heavies lifted 10 to 15c to sell from 480 to 537c/kg. Finished steers to processors received from 470 to 514c/kg.
Yearling heifers lifted 15c with
those to feed receiving from 440 to 501c/kg. Better types to processors ranged from 400 to 509c/kg.
Heavy steers and bullocks sold from 460 to 514c/kg.
Grown heifers received from 375 to 430c/kg. Cows held fairly steady with heavy 2 score selling from 350 to 386c and 3 score 370 to 396c/kg.
The best heavy bull reached 380c/ kg.
SHEEP SALE
Tuesday, 26 August
Yarding 45900 (down 7150)
Numbers fell this sale with agents yarding 45,900 head. Lamb numbers dropped to 30950
and quality was again mixed.
There were some handy lines of grain assisted and finished lambs available along with the secondary types.
Most of the usual buyers were present and competing in a dearer market.
There was 4950 new season lambs penned with trade and heavyweights selling from $235 to $340/head.
Old lambs lifted $10 to $12/ head and more in places. Trade weight 20-24kg sold from $233 to $306/head.
Heavy lambs to 26kg received from $290 to $325 while extra heavyweights sold from $306 to $420/head.
Carcase prices averaged from 1074 to 1211c/kg. There was 14950 mutton penned and Merinos made up the majority. quality was fair but mixed and prices lifted. Merino ewes selling from $155 to $280/head.
Crossbreds received from $170 to $288 with Dorper ewes reaching $270/head. Merino wethers ranged from $164 to $252/head.
FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVESTOCK REPORTING AGENCY
PIG SALE
Friday, 22 August
A much larger yarding of sows saw prices fall 10-15c/kg, mainly on the lighter types. Boars also
fell 40-50c/kg on a much larger offering.
Bacon were too few to quote. The highlight of the day was pork prices which improved by $180$200 per head, selling up to $446 per head.
Sucker numbers were on par to last fortnight and prices improved by $10-$20 per head.
FROM VC REID SMITH LIVESTOCK
STORE CATTLE SALE
Friday, 29 August
The Forbes store cattle sale will be held on Friday, 29 August. The sale will be held at the Forbes Central West Livestock Exchange commencing at 10am.
Members of the Parkes NAIDOC Family Fun Day Committee Kerryn Jones, Kelly Thompson, Gail Smith, Pat Oliver, Marg Applebee, Rose Jones, Jolie O’Shannessy, Callum Morris, (front) Iesha Charlton and Chloe Allen. Missing from the Photo are Geoff Anderson and Michael James.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 The Real Seachange. 1.30 Animal Rescue. 2.00 Better Homes. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 5.00 Horse Racing. Caulfield Spring Opener and ClubsNSW West Metro San Domenico Stakes Day. 5.30 Animal Rescue. 6.00 Every Bite Takes You Home. 6.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 4.05 Richard Osman’s House Of Games. 4.35 MythBusters. 5.30 George Clarke’s Old House, New Home. 6.15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 7.05 Spicks And Specks. 7.35 QI. 8.05 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (NZ) 8.50 The Stand Up Sketch Show. 9.40 Changing Ends. 10.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Australia. 2.30 David Attenborough’s Galapagos. 3.25 Grand Designs New Zealand. 4.10 Martin Clunes: Islands Of The Pacific. 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. 6.00 First Communion. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Austin. 8.00 The Family Next Door. 8.50
6.00 Morning Programs. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Caulfield Spring Opener and ClubsNSW West Metro San Domenico Stakes Day. 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: Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle. (2017) Kevin Hart. 10.00 MOVIE: Jumanji: The Next Level. (2019) 12.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 Teeing Off With Daisy Thomas. 1.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Round 3. GWS Giants v Adelaide. 3.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Round 3. Geelong v Sydney. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 Pawn Stars. 9.30 American Pickers. 10.30 Air Crash Inv. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 12.30 Beyond Paradise. 1.30 Professor T. 2.15 All Creatures Great And Small. 3.00 Great Southern Landscapes. Final. 3.30 Killer Whale: Australia’s Megapod. 4.30 Would I Lie To You? 5.00 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. 5.30 Landline. 6.00 Australian Story. 6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Beyond Paradise. 8.30 Midsomer Murders. 10.00 The Family Next Door. 10.55 I, Jack Wright. 11.40 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 4.20 Millie Magnificent. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Fireman Sam. 6.30 Paddington. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 8.00 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.40 Chopped Jnr. 9.25 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.05 Abbott Elementary. 10.25 Speechless. 10.50 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Drive TV: Launch Pad. 12.30 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Canberra Raiders v Tigers. 2.30 NRLW Wrap. 3.15 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Dragons v NZ Warriors. 5.00 News. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 Rugby League. NRL. North Qld Cowboys v Broncos. 9.35 Soccer. English Premier League. Matchweek 3. Chelsea v Fulham. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Beat Bugs. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 Guitar Gods Goes Cosmic. 11.30 The Big Adventure. 1.10 Take Me Out. 2.25 Starstruck. 3.40 Aust Got Talent. 5.20 MOVIE: Blue Crush. (2002) 7.30 MOVIE: Titanic. (1997) 11.35 Honour. 1.35 Shopping. 2.35 Guitar Gods Goes Cosmic. 3.00 Burn Notice. 5.00 American
6.00 Morning
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.30 Rugby Union. Shute Shield. Grand Final. 5.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 9. North Queensland Cowboys v Sydney Roosters. 7.00 Keeping Up Appearances. 7.30 MOVIE: Wedding Crashers. (2005) 9.55 MOVIE: Ghosts Of Girlfriends Past. (2009) 12.00 Late Programs.
3.30 Animal Rescue. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 7.00 Greatest Escapes To The Country. 7.45 Mrs Brown’s Boys. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 Manhunt: The Night Stalker. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 The Fishing Show By AFN. 1.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Round 3. Collingwood v Melbourne. 3.00 Mighty Planes. 4.00 Mt Hutt Rescue. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: Central Intelligence. (2016) 10.45 MOVIE: Miami Vice. (2006) 1.25 Late Programs.
Snail And The Whale. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.30 Paddington. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.35 The Mysterious Benedict Society. 8.25 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.10 Abbott Elementary. 9.50
are eager to get ahead. But don’t rush into making decisions until you’ve checked for possible hidden problems.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Some light begins to shine on professional and/or personal situations that have long eluded an explanation. Best advice: Don’t rush things. All will be made clear in time.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Although you might want to protest what seems to be an unfair situation, it’s best to keep your tongue and temper in check for now. The full story hasn’t come out yet.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Work prospects are back on track, but watch what you say. A thoughtless comment to the wrong person -even if it’s said in jest -- could delay or even derail your progress.
6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Beat Bugs. 10.15 Jabba’s Movies. 10.45 Sean’s Kitchen. 11.25 Take Me Out. 1.40 Home And Away. 4.25 The Voice. 6.00 Gold Coast Ocean Rescue. 6.30 Puppy School. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. 10.30 Bones.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.45 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 9. Cronulla Sharks v Newcastle Knights. 1.45 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 9. Brisbane Broncos v Canterbury Bulldogs. 3.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 26. Dolphins v Gold Coast Titans. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 The Block. 8.40 60 Minutes. 9.40 9News Late. 10.10 A Killer Makes A Call. 11.10 The First 48. 12.05 Late Programs. 6.00 Tennis. US Open. Day 7 Late. 3.00 Are You Being Served? 3.30 Poirot. 4.30 Dad’s Army. 5.30 M*A*S*H. 6.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 9. Gold Coast Titans v Parramatta Eels. 8.00 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: The Sentinel. (2006) 10.45
LEO (July 23 to August 22) A colleague might goad you into saying or doing the wrong thing. It’s best to ignore the troublemaker, even if they rile up your royal self. Your supporters will stand with you.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Careful not to let your on-the-job zealousness create resentment with co-workers who might feel like you shut them out. Prove them wrong by including them in your project.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Although it’s not quite what you hoped for, use your good business sense to make the most of what you’re being offered at this time. Things will improve down the line.
SCORPIO (October
to
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Continue to keep a tight hold on the reins. This way, you don’t charge willy-nilly into a situation that might appear attractive on the surface but lack substance underneath.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) You still need to demand answers to your questions. Remember, your wise counseling earns you respect, but it’s your search for truth that gives you wisdom.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) You’ll find people who are happy to help you deal with some difficult situations. And, of course, knowing you, you’ll be happy to return those favors anytime. ... Won’t you?
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Give the special someone in your personal life a large, loving dollop of reassurance. This will go a long way in restoring the well-being of your ailing relationship.
Kross claims squash championship
SQUASH
By DROP SHOT!
The Forbes Squash Club’s annual Championship finals were held last Friday night, 15 August.
After two weeks of very competitive squash, with both pleased and disappointed competitors, we were left with about a dozen finals matches to play.
The much-anticipated Men’s A final had two of the most talented exponents of squash in the Central West competing, Lockie Miller and Henry Kross. So that was bound to be a thriller.
And Parkes’ Shanna Nock was out to retain her consecutive A grade title against the very talented Michelle Bentick.
A crowd of spectators and keen supporters arrived, dined on amply supplied pizzas and were no doubt hoping for some entertaining squash and that’s just what we got folks.
Grand final results were:
Men’s A: Henry Kross defeated Lockie Miller over three sets of amazing squash.
B: Jono Cannon defeated Riley Jones fifth set 15-12.
C: Adam Chudleigh defeated Bradman
Hardy in a thrilling five setter also.
Women’s A: Shanna Nock reclaimed her crown defeating Michelle Bentick.
B: Christine Cogswell defeated Ellie Cowhan after five long sets.
C: Lindy Cowhan was outstanding defeat ing Bec Jones fourth set 15-11.
Juniors Novice division: Lucas Jones de feated Nate Markwort 17-15 third set.
Back draw finals were equal crowd pleas ers.
Men’s A: Sam Hornery defeated Dan Bay ley.
B: Cooper Jones defeated Lawry Brayne.
C: T Jay Markwort defeated Hunter Bils borough over four sets.
Women’s A Plate: Young Claire Bayley de feated Alex Bayley in a very close five set tugof-war.
Huge thanks to all participants and spec tators, Kimberley Chudleigh and committee members, scorers and referees for ensur ing the successful running or our champi onships. And general thanks to all who at tended for making the evening so special. Preliminary matches leading to finals will be in next weeks results. Normal comp resumed Wednesday night August 20.
Winners shoot low under sunny skies
MEN’S GOLF
By SHORT PUTT
The Forbes golfers took to the course under sunny skies aiming to do their very best to earn a spot in the next level of competition. Such was the enjoyment that roars of glee could be heard all around the course.
The main competition was the club qualifier for the Golf NSWKENO two-person Ambrose, sponsored by Gunn Golf.
This popular event drew 72 players paired in either of men’s, ladies or mixed divisions.
The men’s division was won by Peter (Ecky) Dawson and Terry Sharpe with 63 nett, but only on count back from Archie Quirk and Tim West.
Ecky and Terry had a successful front-9 managing birdies on the 2nd and 9th holes to sit alongside the pars.
Terry had the better of the driving while Ecky warmed up.
Their back-9 started with a bang, scoring two birdies to open then another on the 15th with Ecky getting the driver working to perfection.
Runners-up Tim and Archie bolted out of the blocks with birdies on the 1st and a run from the 4th to the 7th to offset a bogey on the 2nd and manage a scratch 32. And most importantly Tim had his driver working extremely well.
Their back-9 was quiet by comparison with a lone birdie on the 13th hole, and a steady display of driving by Archie.
The ladies division saw four pairings finish within cooee of each other.
Again a count back was needed to decide the winners.
Veronica Rebellato and Ann Simmons shared the driving load to finish on 77 nett and with a tidy back-9 take the winner’s prize. Ann was extremely good with the driver on the last three holes and finished with a very fine shot.
The ladies runners-up were Wendy Simmons and Sharon Grierson.
They also shared the driving load with a ‘yours, mine, yours, mine’ approach around the front-9. They scored exceptionally well on the back-9 but an errant double-bogey on the 14th cost them the win.
The mixed division saw Carolyn and Niel Duncan dominate to win this Division. Their nett 65.25 placed them fourth overall in the field.
Carolyn excelled with her drives on the shorter holes with Niel finding the fairways on the longer holes. Their split of 36-38 showcased their consistency throughout their game.
The mixed division runners-up were Warwick and Jean Judge.
Jean had the steadier driving with Warwick’s radar quite off the mark. He did not complete his required drives until the 16th. But it was the putting which held them back. Both putters were cold and led to too many bogeys that damaged their cause.
The winning pairs from each Division, plus the runners-up in the men’s division are eligible to progress through to a KENO Regional Final.
Forbes will host a regional final on Sun 28 September but there are others in the KENO Schedule which they can enter for.
Well done to all of them and good
luck in the next step towards the State final to be held at Bonville GC on 30 November - 3 December.
The ball sweep went to 66.5 nett, going to: 64.25 – K Tyne/C McMillan; 65.5 – P Pymont/L Fraser; 65.75 – B Carpenter/M Haley; 66 – A Dukes/J Betland, J Dobell/J Cutler; 66.25 – H Callaghan/P Murphy; 66.5 – B Hayes/W O’Neill, D Quirk/T Callaghan. There was one visitor – Ben Russell (Cowra) who teamed with Brett Slack-Smith.
The NTP’s went to: 9th – Ladies: Sarah Black, Men: Jacob Reid; 18th – Ladies: Ann Simmons, Men: Jade Page. Neither tee shot was converted for a ‘2’. There were six 2’s overall with the 1st and the 18th yielding two each.
The 3rd hole Super-Pin was well celebrated by Cody Banks. His shot was very nearly a ‘H-in-O’ but settled at 100cm from the hole.
It was an easy conversion for a ‘2’ and earned Cody his third tee shot. He had to wait for the back-9 for his next tee shot on the card.
Having a ‘second crack’ at important putts helped the scoring. This contributed to three eagles being recorded. Kailab Tyne and Cam McMillan snared one on the 7th, to follow their birdie in the 6th.
Then Pat Murphy and Harry Callghan managed one on the 15th to counter the bogey on the previous hole. Brendan Hayes and Wayne O’Neill also snared one on the 15th and followed that with a birdie on the 16th.
This format needs good combinations or good complementary play within the pairs.
Sometimes it is the physical, as shown by the tall Tim and shorter Archie pair, and sometimes it is equal capability as demonstrated by Max Haley and Bruce Carpenter.
But good putting is always a requirement for good scoring.
Max Haley earned his accolades when he one-putted the 17th and 18th holes from long distance. This gave he and partner Bruce the KENO ticket over ‘The Two Steves’.
Also holding the end of a hot putter was Andrew Dukes. On each of the last three holes he converted very long one-putts to help his score and record three birdies to finish.
This gave he and partner John Betland a scratch 32 on their back9. This was very pleasing as in the
early part of his game Andrew’s putting was the backbone of nightmares.
The final of the Wallace Cup was played on the weekend and turned into an exciting match. Brad Ashton was up against Kim Herbert and having to give him four shots.
It did not look good for Brad at first when on the 4th his second shot from prime position in the fairway was fluffed and skipped over the water. His chip shot was skulled and fired off the back of the green, handing the hole to Kim.
But Brad rallied and played tight golf thereafter to lead Kim 2-up after 12 holes.
Then Kim was inspired to win the 13th and 14th holes to draw square. He won the 15th but then his putter went cold and he could not take advantage of a shot to win the 16th, halving that. The 17th was halved leaving Brad 1-down on the 18th.
Kim lost all rhythm with his tee shot and after battling the trees handed the hole to Brad. This required extra holes.
The 19th, playing the 1st hole again, saw Kim fire his tee shot too long and was snookered by the tree at the back while Brad was on the green. His resultant double-bogey gave Brad the Match in a tight contest.
Here is the news:
The greens were cored early this week and sand spread as part of the renovations. The next few weekends will see some ‘sandy lies’ on the greens and some very interesting putts.
But all should be ready by the end of September when the October Monthly Medal will be played, brought forward from the long weekend, and the KENO Regional Final will be played.
Head Pro Will has advised of a Titleist Equipment Demo Day scheduled for Wednesday 10 September. Contact him or leave your name at the Pro Shop if you want a time slot to try things out.
H/Pro Will has been away a bit playing in some PGA events. He travelled to Gunnedah where he finished in the back half of the field, then ventured to Port Macquarie where the main feature of play was the rain.
There he finished T-41 after a disastrous first round but much improved second round. Also at ‘The
Port’ was James Grierson who finished on 1-over and T-15, with the winner at 6-under.
It is crystal ball time: Saturday 30 has a 4BBB Stableford Medley, sponsored by Cahill Footwear. And Sunday has the usual Stableford Medley comp.
VETS GOLF
Successful Forbes farmer Stuart French took this attitude to the Parkes Golf Club last Thursday blitzing all playing the Lachlan Valley Veterans Golf Association monthly 18 hole competition with a score of 41 points.
At the same time Stuart was crowned winner of the LVGA district final for the NSWVGA Medal from players who qualified after rounds played earlier this season.
Keeping it in the twin town competition was runner-up Don McKeowen from Bogan Gate who plays the weekly T/T comp out of the Forbes club posting 36 points. They also shared spoils in the monthly A grade competition.
Visiting players took B grade honours with Cowra’s Elwyn Ward best registering 40 points from Peter Howarth of West Wyalong next on 36 points.
Forty five players took part in overcast but dry condition where Forbes again ruled supreme in the teams event with their best three scores from 12 players posted 109 points.
Nearest the pins- 4th A grade Nym Dziuba (P), B grade Elwyn Ward (Cwa), 11th A grade Ian Phipps (P), B grade nil.
Forbes and Parkes players to collect balls in the sweep – 36 points Phil Smith (P), 35 Barry Parker (F), Linday Elliott (P), Rob Staples (P), 34 Nym Dziuba (P), 33 Les Little (F), Kim Herbert (F), Ian Phipps (P), 32 Phil Smith (P), Alf Davies (F), John Pearce (P).
This week Forbes will host the twin towns weekly competition with noms from 9.30am for a 10am shot gun start.
For the diary the next LVGA 18 hole comp is scheduled for West Wyalong on Thursday September 18.
Due to course maintenance last Tuesday only nine holes were
scheduled for play with Steve Edwards again on top with 21 points from Barry Parker and Ken Walton next best on 20. Rest of the field not far behind.
It was a small meeting for coffee after with Steve E, Barry P and Ken W deciding to do three more holes while discussing the day’s results.
Tuesday 12 hole social comp for all, ball toss at 9am with coffee to follow for anyone interested.
LADIES GOLF
We begin our ladies notes with a run down of Wednesday’s Captain’s verse the President’s team.
Threatening weather again affected the number of players for the match. This event was played as Stableford with some twists. Six holes were chosen and players could only pick one club to play the hole from start to finish.
Chipping and putting with a driver or fairway club proved interesting.
The outcome of these holes certainly affected the players scores with 31 being the best score of the day.
In the end the President’s purple team were the victors over the Captain’s green team.
The majority dressed up themselves and their carts for the day.
The winning team received a ball each and their carts lucky losers were awarded chocolates.
Ball sweep went to Robin Lyell and Lynn Kennedy with 31 points. Julie Wood 29 points and Heather Davidson 29 points.
There were no nearest to the pins due to the nature of the game.
Saturday 23rd was Golf NSW twoperson qualifying round, sponsored by Gunns Golf.
Best girls team on the day were Veronica Rebellato and Ann Simmons with a score of 77 on c/b.
Carolyn Duncan playing with husband Niel were winners of the mixed team with a score of 65.25 . Ladies nearest to the pins were Sarah Black on the 9th and Ann Simmons on the 18th.
Matches set down for next week are the Cahills Footwear 4BBB. Saturday 31 August is also the Narromine Tournament then Wednesday 3 September is the Barnes and Shields 18 hole stroke. Monthly Medal and Putting Comp + the dropout Stableford.
Good golfing everyone.
Brad Ashton holds the trophy after his Wallace Cup win.
All smiles as Wendy Simmons, Sharon Grierson, Carolyn and Niel Duncan prepare for their KENO glory.
PHOTOS: Short Putt
Juniors to contest league grand finals
Forbes’ junior rugby league clubs will be well represented in grand finals this weekend, as teams hit the road to West Wyalong on Saturday, 30 August for the final games of the season.
Week two of the finals was played out in Molong and the atmosphere was electric with some incredible rugby league played out.
Congratulations to all our sides who have secured their spot in the grand finals.
Forbes is to take on Parkes in the Under 16s boys tackle grand final.
The Magpies 16s boys tackle had a narrow 10-6 win over Red Bend under lights at Parkes two weeks away to earn their place in the decider early, with tries to Archie Keane and Brock Maynard sealing the win.
It’s a local derby in the Under 17s league tag, with Red Bend Sky to take on Forbes.
Our two Red Bend league tag sides were first through to the grand final in their age groups, on the back of strong seasons.
Magpies had a 16-6 win over Parkes Marist Blue in Saturday’s semi-final to earn their place in the decider, with Rosie Hurford scoring two tries and Stella Bull crossing for one.
Red Bend will take on Canowindra in the Under 14s league tag grand final.
Please note: Unfortunately The Advocate wasn’t able to source Magpies’ grand final team photos by print deadline but we wish all local sides good luck for the weekend and look forward to featuring them next week.
Bowling greens fill as sun shines on Sunday social event
LAWN BOWLS
FORBES SPORTS AND REC CLUB
Wednesday bowls – Far from ideal weather last week but that not stop five games of pairs being played where card draw winners were Phil Hocking, the best by far from the well documented family leading for Billy Cowell winning 25-8 in 22 ends over John ‘Slippery’ Ward on the return leading for John Kennedy.
‘Slippery’ and John did have some glory, they lead 2-0 after two before that ’lady’ sang with the score 17-2 against them after 13.
In heavy conditions short ends featured in the game where Sue White and Don Craft had all the answers winning 20-12 in 18 over Ann Mackay and Dale Scott coming from 3-7 down after five to gradually gain the lead for 15-11 at the end of 14. 5-1 in the last four put the icing on the cake.
There was drama to a degree in the game between Goff Coles and Kerry Dunstan playing Eddie Gould and John Gorton and it wasn’t on the scoreboard.
Mid-game the kitty went missing, for more ask ‘light fingered’ Geoff.
In the end Eddie and John won 19-16. However, they did lead 9-0 after six then 19-9 after 14 of 18 ends. They lost the last four ends 7-0.
Move over ‘Bert’ as another Bayley is on the scene with Phil playing superbly leading for Lyall Strudwick … wicking from all corners of the rink combining to trounce John Baass and Barry Shine 24-10 winning 15 of the 20 ends played.
In the last Wayne Wright and Alf Davies drew 14-all with Terry Molloy and Peter Mackay in 18.
It was another change of fortune late after Terry and Peter were cruising at 14-6 after 13 before going to sleep losing the run home
his bowl down in the Ben
8-0. In-club winners John Kennedy and John Baass.
Thursday – 16 bowlers braved the elements on Thursday afternoon.
Our biggest margin of the day was had between Phil Hocking leading for Bruce (Posso) Jones when they played Wayne Wright and Dale Scott.
Phil and Posso led from the front and kept on running taking the win 27-8.
With a margin on 15 on rink 4, Max Vincent and Cliff Nelson did not have luck go their way could not come away with the win against Bobby Grant and Billy ‘The Paint Brushes” Cowell.
Although the score was 6 all on 6, there was a long time between drinks until Max and Cliff were able to add to their score. Overall score 24-9.
A returning visitor to town Gavin Jones teamed with Tim Everest when they secured their win 22-19 against Dale Maynard and Wayne Burton. 15 all on the 15th and only 5 ends to get over the line, Tim and
Gavin won 3 of the 5 ends to seal the deal.
Our last game of the day and 1 point separating them was played between Terry Molloy and Viv Russell taking on Denis Byrnes and Cherie Vincent. Terry and Viv made the comeback of century from 2-10 down to hitting the lead on the 17th. 14 all going into the last end Terry and Viv scrapped in gaining a 1 and winning the game 15-14.
Winning rink went to Tim Everest and Gavin Jones. Losing rink went to Max Vincent and Cliff Nelson.
Jackpot was won by Cliff Nelson. Resting touchers: Posso Jones and Gavin Jones. Raspberry also went to Posso Jones.
Sunday bowls – 34 bowlers enjoyed the glorious morning sunshine and try their luck to bag a win and the jackpot. It was great to see a full green of bowlers for social Sunday and it’s only going to get better with winter nearly behind us for another year.
1 point the difference and Max
Vincent gets bragging rights when he led for Lyall Strudwick against his wife Cherie and Geoff Brown. Cherie and Geoff were a little slower at the start finally getting some valuable runs on the board on the 10. They put the feet flat to the floor and took the lead on 13 but Max and Lyall did not rollover and won the last two valuable ends to win the game 14-13.
Jax Murphy and Bobby Grant proved to be a dynamic duo when they played Tim Everest and Pat O’Neil. 5 all on 5 when Jax and Bobby scored a 5 to jump to the lead. Pat and Tim won the next 5 ends and leaped to the front and only going by 1 in the end, 16-17.
Luck didn’t play a factor for Noel Hocking and Ron Thurlow. There was a lot of laughter but that couldn’t get over the line when they played Terry Murphy and Mick Merritt. Noel and Ron had 3 points on the board against 10 at halftime. Terry and Mick refuelled and didn’t stop until the finish time winning overall 25-3.
The only triples game for the day was the gave the boys the leg up and bragging rights for a long time against the girls.
Ben O’Sullivan, James Johansson and Juss Scifleet led 6-2 on 6. Trish Todd, Joyce Gray and Tara Shaw had some making up to do but unfortunately they couldn’t match the boys going down 12-6.
Dick Sharkey had a blinder or was it because he had Mr Consistent Skip (Viv Russell) either way they brought home the gold when they defeated Dale Maynard and Sue White 19-7. Dick and Viv had a handy lead of 9-4 at the break and although Dale and Sue were going end for end, Dick and Viv scored multiples against Dale and Sue’s singles.
Denis Byrnes proved he has not skipped a beat having not played for a while when he led for Peter Tisdell against Darryl Burley and Billy “The Paint Brushes” Cowell. Denis and Peter gained a 5 on their first end and set the tone for game to be.
Darryl and Billy didn’t give up but it was hard to match the 3’s and final scoreboard showed Denis and Peter victors, 20-11.
Eddie Gould thought he would try his luck on a Sunday instead of a Wednesday when he and Al Phillips put up a battle but lost by 1 point when they drew Ross Williams and John Cutler.
Ross, still on cloud 9 from coming 3rd in the recent Ben Hall Pairs Carnival, he held onto his knowledge and determination. 7 all on 8, 8 all on 10 then again level 12 all on 14. Neither team were backing down but it was Ross and John that came out on top 14-13.
Our last game card of the morning was played by Terry Molloy and Cliff Nelson finishing 3 in front, 1815 against Peter Greenhalgh and Jason Howell. 5 to chase at halftime, it wasn’t out of the question for Peter and Jason.
They took that thought and showed it on the green winning the next 3 in a row and adding 9 points to the board. Terry and Cliff had to claw back and that what they did. Winning rink – Max Vincent and Lyall Strudwick. Losing rink, Trish Todd, Joyce Gray and Tara Shaw. Jackpot winner – Mick Merritt. Resting touchers: Billy Cowell, Dennis Byrnes. Raspberry: John Cutler
Chicken raffle winners: John Woods x 2, Terry Molloy, Liss Shaw, Sue White, Alfie Andrews, Noel Hocking, Lyall Strudwick and Tim Everest.
Under 14’s league tag (back) trainer Nicole Davey, coach Hannah DeMamiel, Hailey Bolam, Mackenzie Bolam, Montana
Davey, Evie Amor, Ivy Jones, Claire Wilkins, Ava Nunn, Aaliyah Kelly, Marley Knight, manager Kristen Read, trainer Jared DeMamiel (front) Tilly DeMamiel, Amber Hodge, Jinxi Piggott, co-captains Harpa Martin and Sophie Phillips, Macey Frost,
Amelia Smith and Amelia McRae.
PHOTOS: Red Bend JRL
Peter Fahey sends
Hall Pairs tournament.
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
Sunny Saturday a great day for croquet
CROQUET
On Saturday 23 August 2025 Aussie Croquet was played with 28 members in attendance. It was a lovely warm morning with no wind. All three games were won by Cheryl Toohey and Kevin Rubie. Congratulations to those players. A close score of 14/13 was recorded when Kevin Rubie & Colleen Liebich narrowly defeated Elvy Quirk & Peter Mackay. 14/12 scores recorded by Cheryl Toohey & Lyn Simmonds who defeated Elvy Quirk & Harley Stewart.
There were several 14/11 scores as follows: Cheryl Toohey & John Allegri def Rex Toole & Peter Mackay, Harley Stewart & Peter West def John Farah & Sally Perry, Harley Stewart & Peter West def Ray Burridge & John Allegri, Rex Toole & Robin Pols def Barry White & Lyn Simmonds, Rex Toole & Barry White def Belinda Facey & May Jones; 14/10 scores recorded as follows: Kevin Wenning & Tony Bernardi def Neville Spry & Enid Baker, John Browne & Neil Riley def Barry White & Noel Jolliffe, Robin Pols
& Fay Picker def Colleen Liebich & Ray Burridge, May Jones & John Farah def Fay Picker & Irene Riley, Tony Bernardi & Noel Jolliffe def Enid Baker & Belinda Facey, Colleen Liebich (solo) def Ray Burridge & Robin Pols, Neville Spry & John Allegri def Tony Bernardi & Peter West;
14/9 scores as follows: Kevin Rubie & Lyn Simmonds def Frank Donohoe & Belinda Facey, John Browne & Sally Perry def Kevin Wenning & Neil Riley, Neville Spry & Cheryl Toohey def Frank Donohoe & Anne Stewart, Kevin Rubie & Peter Mackay def Enid Baker & Fay Picker, Frank Donohoe & Noel Jolliffe def Sally Perry & Irene Riley: Golf Croquet was played on Tuesday 26 August when 39 players en-
joyed the morning of Croquet.
We again welcomed a visitor Bruce Jolliffe who is still on holidays and visiting his brother Noel and sister in law Sue.
It was lovely to see Carolyn Neilsen back at croquet after a break with some injuries. Also welcome back to Roma Wicks who has been absent for some time and also welcome back to Vince Roberts who has also been absent for a while. 11/2 runaway score was recorded by Margaret Dent & Neville Spry who defeated Russell Anderson & Ray Burridge.
Also further runaway scores were recorded by Frank Donohoe & Kevin Rubie who defeated Mal Smith & Lyall Strudwick 10/3; Neil Riley & Frank Donohoe who defeated Barbara Bruce & Ray Martin 10/3: Also John Browne & Colleen Liebich who defeated Enid Baker & Mal Smith 10/3.
9/4 scores as follows: Elvy Quirk & Bill Scott def Pam Thomson & Fay Picker, John Allegri (solo) def Neil Riley & Kevin Wenning, Vince Roberts & Peter West def Robin Pols & Roma Wicks, Lyall Strudwick (solo)
def John Job (solo), Neville Spry & Russell Anderson def Rex Toole & Vince Roberts, Wayne Wright & Sally Perry def Sue & Bruce Jolliffe, Noel Jolliffe & Peter West def Kevin Rubie & Peter Mackay, Rex Toole & Neville Spry def Ray Martin & David Williams; 8/5 scores as follows: Noel & Bruce Jolliffe def Evelyn Mahlo & Lyn Simmonds, David Williams & John Farah def Enid Baker & Tony Bernardi, John Job & Neil Riley def Peter Mackay & Rex Toole, David Williams & Ray Burridge def Kevin Wenning & Evelyn Mahlo, Kevin Wenning & May Jones def Fay Picker & Belinda Facey, Elvy Quirk & Peter West def Neil Riley & Russell Anderson.
Close scores of 7/6 were as follows: Colleen Liebich & Sally Perry def John Browne & Sue Jolliffe, Wayne Wright & Peter West def Barbara Bruce & Belinda Facey, Elvy Quirk & May Jones def Fay Picker & John Allegri, John Farah & Margaret Dent def Belinda Facey & Lyn Simmonds, Pam Thomson & Tony Bernardi def Roma Wicks & Neil Riley, John Farah & Sally Perry
def Kevin Rubie & John Browne, John Allegri & Sue Jolliffe def Neil Riley & Lyall Strudwick, Mal Smith & Frank Donohoe def Ray Burridge & Lyn Simmonds, Wayne Wright & Enid Baker def Pam Thomson & Noel Jolliffe, Tony Bernardi & Vince Robers def Bruce Jolliffe & Peter Mackay.
On the day three games were won by Wayne Wright, Neville Spry, Sally Perry, Peter West, John Farah, Frank Donohoe & Elvy Quirk. Our next bi-monthly luncheon will be held at Isabel’s Place on Tuesday 7 October so pop the date on your calendar, the sheets will be out prior for you to choose your meal.
Don’t forget our annual general meeting is just around the corner with a date to be scheduled in the month of October. So get your thinking caps on and decide what position you would like to hold for the coming year.
Membership subscriptions of $20 are due and payable by 30 September.
Stay safe.
By ELVY QUIRK
FootyNRL TIPPING
Our 2025 squash champions
Defend the nest
Magpies call on home crowd to roar them into the decider
RUGBY LEAGUE
By RENEE POWELL
The mighty Forbes Magpies are just one win away from a shot at premiership glory, with first grade preparing to take on the Mudgee Dragons this Sunday at Spooner Oval for a place in the 2025 Peter McDonald Premiership grand final.
Nick Greenhalgh’s men return to their home ground fortress where they remain undefeated this season.
Backed by their black-andwhite army of supporters, the Magpies will be looking to extend that streak in front of a bumper Spooner Oval crowd.
Mudgee survived a brutal clash with Wellington last weekend to scrape through 26-22, but Forbes’ first grade earnt the luxury of a week off and this extra home game.
Captain Nick Greenhalgh says the squad knows the challenge that awaits.
“The mood’s very good, the boys are happy to be in this position,” he said.
“We don’t want to let this opportunity slip: it’s only going to come around once and we’re only going to get 80 minutes at it.
“It’s gonna be tough, Mudgee are gonna come with everything, but if we can stick to what we do, defend well, we give ourselves every chance.”
This squad of local and regional talent was the talking point of the competition from the pre-season and they’ve settled into a consist-
ent line-up for finals footy.
“We’re relatively injuryfree, pretty settled, everyone knows their roles - there’ll be no excuses,” coach Cameron Greenhalgh said.
“We’ll be ready and hope to play our best footy.”
Nick said it was a privilege to lead a team he calls the
most talented Magpies outfit he’s seen – but he knows talent alone won’t bring home the silverware.
This week they’re staying grounded, preparing to dig in and work hard for each other in the defence they’ve prided themselves on all season.
DINNER &
With a sunny Sunday afternoon forecast, Spooner Oval is set to be buzzing as Forbes rallies behind their Magpies for one of the biggest games of the season.
“The reason we’re so successful at home is because of our crowd,” Nick said.
First grade is scheduled for 2pm Sunday, 31 August, at Spooner Oval.
In the other qualifier, Dubbo CYMS take on Orange CYMS at Apex Oval.
“People might think it doesn’t (matter) but being out there … you want to go to that next level, you don’t want to let them down.”
Hayden Bolam has returned to the Magpies this season.
Chad Porter, and brother Jake, have slotted seamlessly into the Magpies’ squad.
