GR071124

The first

has been

Project kicks off

By BRENDAN McCOOL

WHILE work may not fully begin until after the Weddin Shire Australia Day ceremony in January, the first sod has been turned at Taylor Park for the creation of the Taylor Park Inclusive playspace.

Members of the Weddin community were joined by Weddin Shire Councillors,

Stephen Lawrence MLC, Steph Cooke MP, and community advocate Emily Essex to celebrate the beginning of the ‘Livvi’s Place Taylor Park’ inclusive playspace project.

Weddin Shire Council, in partnership with Touched by Olivia Foundation, are creating the inclusive play space as part of the redevelopment of Taylor Park.

This redevelopment is funded by the NSW Government through their Stronger Country Communities Fund Round 5 and Crown Reserve Improvement Fund.

Weddin Shire Mayor, Paul Best, said they plan to start the major works in January after Australia Day, as Taylor Park is host to several events such as Carols

by Candlelight and the Australia Day ceremony.

Cr Best said initial hopes were that the redevelopment would be complete by the end of June, 2025, and the fact both stages are funded and able to be completed together will result in a lot of savings as they will have people on site and not have to come back for a second stage.

Cr Best said the money

would stretch a lot further, and get more of the park completed, making the whole park accessible, not just the planned play space.

Stephen Lawrence, MLC, said as part of his role, he is asked to announce the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund grants and was going to announce the grant received by Weddin Shire for this redevelopment at an event

not long after it had been approved.

However, upon hearing from Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke and the background of the project, they decided to postpone the event to October 31 so they could host a community event to better reflect the community effort that had gone into it.

■ Continued page 8

sod

turned at the Taylor Park Inclusive Play space.

PHOTO: Brendan McCool

Musica Viva brings fun to Quandialla Public School

THE latest newsletter from Quandialla Public School - term 4, week three, released on Wednesday, October 30.

Relieving Principal’s Report

Road Safety: We will be conducting some extra road safety education but we ask that parents please reinforce the issue of road safety for students who walk and ride to school.

If students are not confident riding bikes, we advise that they do not ride to school unsupervised.

We are also required by law to hold bikes on school grounds if students

do not have an appropriate helmet to wear.

Day for Daniel: Last week we wore red for Day for Daniel. The Daniel Morcombe Foundation aims to prevent abuse and promote lifelong health and wellbeing among children and young people. Our students, along with the pre-school raised $60. Well done everyone for donating and helping to raise awareness about stranger danger. - Brady Pudya, Relieving Principal.

Quandialla

Reforms to ease rental burden: MLC Lawrence

STEPHEN Lawrence, the MLC for our region, has welcomed new laws passed in the NSW Parliament that are aimed at improving rental laws and helping to make renting fairer for locals.

According to Mr Lawrence the passing of the laws is the Government delivering on its election commitment.

“These new laws will mean you won’t have more than rental increase per year, your landlord can’t evict you for no reason, it will be easier to have pets in rentals, you won’t be hit with fees when you pay your rent, and you won’t have to pay for background checks when applying for a new property,” Mr Lawrence said.

“We understand that renting can be challenging, so these reforms will go a long way to easing the burden for renters.”

Part of the package is the banning of no grounds evictions.

“The banning of no grounds evictions will give renters and owners more clarity by requiring property owners to have valid reasons to end a fixed term or periodic lease,” Mr Lawrence said.

Rent increases will be limited to only once per year.

“This will include a limit of one rent increase per year across all lease types,” Mr Lawrence said.

“Including fixed term and periodic leases.”

The new reform will make it easier to have pets in rentals and ensure tenants have a free way to pay rent.

“The changes to make it easier to have pets in rentals will mean a tenant can apply to keep a pet, with landlords only able to decline on certain grounds,” Mr Lawrence said.

“Tenants will now have easy and free ways to pay their rent by requiring property owners and agents to offer zero fee ways to pay such as bank transfer and Commonwealth Centrepay.”

Another key change in the reforms are the banning of fees for background checks.

“Renters will no longer be being charged for background checks when they’re applying for a rental property,” Mr Lawrence said.

The Government is also

launching a number of initiatives to help battle the current rental crisis, these include a portable bond scheme, establishing the free tool Rent Check and a rental taskforce within NSW Fair Trading.

“The passing of these laws follow extensive and detailed discussions with renter advocates, industry stakeholders and tenancy experts, as well as a ‘Have your say’ public consultation process which received more than 16,000 submissions and survey responses,” Mr Lawrence said.

Premier Chris Minns has said the reforms have been a long time coming.

“This moment has been a long time coming for the millions of renters and many owners across the State who are calling out for much needed change,” he said.

“These reforms respond to key issues raised by the people around NSW that change is required to better protect renters in their homes, and give owners more certainty about how to get the best out of their investments.”

KEY CHANGES

 No grounds evictions will be banned - The banning of no grounds evictions will give renters and owners more clarity by requiring property owners to have valid reasons to end a fixed term or periodic lease.

 Rent increases now limited to one per year – This will include a limit of one rent increase per year across all lease types – including fixed-term and periodic leases.

 It will be easier to have pets in rentals - The changes to make it easier to have pets in rentals will mean a tenant can apply to keep a pet, with landlords only able to decline on certain grounds.

 Ensuring tenants have a free way to pay rent – Tenants will now have easy and free ways to pay their rent by requiring property owners and agents to offer zero-fee ways to pay such as bank transfer and Commonwealth Centrepay.

 Banning fees for background checks – Renters will no longer be being charged for background checks when they’re applying for a rental property.

Learning Bocci at Caragabal PS

CARAGABAL Public School Newsletter for Term 4, week 3.

From Ms Sanderson

This week we’ve had Mrs S here spending time with the children and staff for the last time this year, she has been so supportive and helpful to us all and, thankyou Mrs S for all that you’ve done for us!

Last Friday, the students started to learn how to play Bocci with Mr Cutler for sport, the students enjoyed learning something different!

The 2-6 excursion to Borambola is next week and so is the K-1 excursion to Lake Cowal!

A reminder to all students and staff attending to enjoy your time away and have fun! I’m looking forward to hearing all about it.

School Captain’s Report

The 2-6 class are travelling to Borambola sport and recreation centre for a 3 day excursion. We have fun activities planned and everyone is super excited.

The little ones also have an excursion to Lake Cowal. Good news, Nic’s baby longneck turtle Freddy has a new home! An old fish tank was brought in, filled with water and then Freddy was placed inside. Plant decorations are on the way and we are all excited to see Freddy settling into his new home.

Sports report from Matilda Cooper

On Friday, October 26 Indi, Nic, April, Olivia, a few students from Quandi and myself had a great day at touch footy.

We scored two tries and successfully won our second game.

Although we didn’t win any other games, we still did exceptionally.

RIGHT:

Public School enjoyed a visit from Musica Viva musicians.

Quandialla scholarship committee celebrates with 2024 recipients Hugh and Reuben Community support for students

THE presentation evening for the Quandialla Scholarship Committee was held at the Quandialla Bowling Club on Friday, September 27. A lovely meal was prepared and served by the Quandialla P&C Association.

Thanks must be extended to everyone who attended and supported the evening.

Our Scholarship recipients for 2024 are:

Hugh Nowlan: Hugh is currently attending The Henry Lawson High School in Grenfell and receives a Year 10 Scholarship, to support his studies in Year 11 and Year 12.

Mr Andrew Blair from Altora Ag. presented Hugh with his cheque and certificate on the night.

Congratulations must also go to Hugh, who at the end of last term, was elected The Henry Lawson High School’s Vice Captain for 2025.

Reuben Ryan: Congratulations to Reuben Ryan who is in his final year at St. Stanislaus’ College – Bathurst.

Reuben has also received a Quandialla Scholarship for his Year 12 studies.

Unfortunately, Reuben couldn’t attend the presentation evening, due to his Graduation being held on the same weekend.

We wish Reuben all the best, as he undertakes his H.S.C. exams, and for the future.

Congratulations are extended to

both Hugh and Reuben as they continue with their studies, and we look forward to hearing of their future achievements.

The Quandialla District Scholarship Committee has been in existence for over 60 years.

The generous support of our sponsors has allowed us, in more recent years, to offer students even more support and

offer both TAFE and University scholarships.

The Quandialla and District Scholarship Committee is extremely grateful to our 2024 sponsors.

The continued generous support of Altora Ag. – Quandialla, Evolution Mining (Cowal) Pty. Ltd., Central Tablelands Water and Delta Agriculture – Quandialla, allows us to continue supporting local students in Years 11 and 12, TAFE and University.

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

The Quandialla District Scholarship Committee has five scholarships available each year.

Students that meet the criteria can apply for the; Year 10 Scholarship, which supports students as they complete Years 11 and 12, TAFE Scholarship (short term), TAFE Scholarship (Long term), University Scholarship (First year of Study).

And a University Scholarship (Second and further year of study).

Applications for 2025 Scholarships will be available in the new year. For further information in applying for Scholarships, or if you wish to donate to the Quandialla District Scholarship Committee, and in turn help our local students fulfil their dreams, please contact the Secretary, Narelle Gault on 6347 1294.

Gather, commemorate on Remembrance Day Monday

THE Grenfell RSL Sub-Branch will be conducting the Remembrance Day Commemorative Service on Monday November 11 commencing at 1045 Hrs (10.45am) at Memorial Park.

The service will include cadet catafalque party, Last Post and Ode, commemorative song sung by Belinda Day, wreath laying ceremony (Members of the public invited to lay a wreath), readings by Grenfell Schools and National Anthem sung by Belinda Day.

The Remembrance Day/ Cadet of the year Post Service Drinks with Finger Food will follow at the Grenfell Bowling Club dining room at 12.30 Hrs (12.30pm) for those who have booked.

An RSL Remembrance Ride will be passing through Grenfell on Remembrance Day and will be attending the Grenfell service.

The group of 19 veterans and family and friends of veterans is undertaking a week’s cycling based on the Lachlan Valley, around 480km.

The ride is mainly on gravel and back roads.

The group will leave Cowra on November 10 and arrive mid-afternoon riding via Koorawatha and Greenethorpe.

This is the fourth Remembrance ride undertaken, each of around one week. Geoff Stokes, a former local has family in Grenfell, Remembrance Day is one of the most important days on our commemorative calendar. It’s a day when we acknowledge those who

died or suffered while serving in wars, conflicts and peace operations.

Remembrance Day is held on November 11 each year.

This is the anniversary of the Armistice that ended fighting with Germany in World War I.

People in Australia and many other countries observe one minute’s silence at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month because that’s when the Armistice came into effect.

It’s a time to honour our service personnel who died or suffered in service of Australia.

Originally known as Armistice Day, it was renamed Remembrance Day after World War Two to commemorate those who were killed in both World Wars.

Today the loss of Australian lives from all wars and conflicts is commemorated on Remembrance Day.

For more information about the Commemorative Service ontact Glen Ivins.

Rebecca on 0436

Reuben Ryan received a Quandialla Scholarship for his Year 12 studies.

PHOTO: Supplied

Gary Penfold ( President, Quandialla Scholarship Committee) and Andrew Blair, Altora Ag, present Hugh Nowlan with a cheque and certificate.

PHOTO: Supplied.

Ron and Eunice Huckel celebrate 65 years of marriage

By DEIDRE CARROLL

Congratulations to Ron and Eunice Huckel who celebrated their 65th Wedding Anniversary on October 17.

Ron and Eunice first meeting was through the Grenfell Methodist Youth Fellowship in 1956.

They married three years later on October 17, 1959, in the Methodist Church with Rev Clyde Nicholson officiating. Following a honeymoon via the Snowy scheme and the South Coast, they made their first home on “Melyra” for 12 months.

They later purchased a house and mail contract at Pullabooka-Piney Range which they operated for 46

years, plus farming with Ron’s father.

The Huckels were blessed with a family of four, Steven, Debbie, Greg and Darren and have nine grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. They sold the farm and moved to Grenfell in 2008 to retire.

The Huckels have a magnificent garden. Each year they have entered their garden in the in the Grenfell Open Gardens.

Ron said that Eunice was responsible for the beautiful garden, whilst he was very proud of his special “Veggie Patch”

The Huckels celebrated this milestone with a family luncheon on October 19.

By TED PICKWELL

THE Grenfell Senior Citizens Welfare Committee met on October 29.

In the absence of President Dennis the Meeting was chaired by Mrs Vicki Reid.

Apologies were received from four members and there were 11 members present.

There was little business of a general meeting worth reporting on as it was in the main general maintenance.

The Garden Committee reported that spraying had been carried out in all areas.

date will be announced at a later meeting which would most probably be after in the New Year.

Grenfell Hospital Auxiliary celebrates busy year

The Grenfell Hospital Auxiliary has had a busy year!

We had five members attend our 91st Annual State Conference in Bankstown where we received a certificate of merit for fundraising over $20,000 and a certificate of merit for raising over $500 per member for the financial year 2023 - 2024.

Some of the items we gifted to our Hospital, the Residential Aged Care and Community Health were a medical chair valued at $12,000, Recliner chairs for $7,000 and six televisions for $4,500.

There were also the Hospital Emergency bags for patients in need and the purchase of games, crafts, easter and Christmas treats for the Residents at the MPS.

We held two very successful street stalls and our Christmas raffle with eight prizes valued at over $2,200

There will be a Street Stall and a raffle held on November 8 with a $100 prize IGA voucher being on offer to the winner.

A nice pick up for the winner with Christmas soon to be with us and some help with Christmas presents being available for purchase from the stall.

The next meeting of the committee will be held on November 26, 2024 at 3.00pm and all visitors are most welcome to attend.

Ron and Eunice Huckel’s got married on October 17,

PHOTOS: Supplied

Senior Citizens Welfare Committee host monthly meeting

File

This year we sold lamingtons each month from May to October with nearly 1,200 dozen being sold which is a great fundraiser for our amazing Auxiliary members who have a great social time making the lamingtons.

Our next meeting will be held in the Leisure room at the Grenfell MPS at 2pm on Wednesday, November 20, 2024 and all are welcome to attend. For our final get together for the year we hope to have an afternoon tea with a date and venue to be decided at this meeting.

Dorothy Starr. Publicity Officer, Grenfell Hospital Auxiliary.

Get your tickets in Royal Far West Christmas raffle

THE Grenfell Branch of the Royal Far West are starting to sell tickets for their Christmas raffle and they encourage the community to get behind them in support.

There are four major prizes which are on display in the window of Makcrete. Tickets are $2 each or three for $5. This raffle will be drawn on November 28.

Tickets can be purchased from The Royal Hotel, Makcrete or from any members of the Grenfell Branch of the Royal Far West.

Grenfell Branch President Margaret Cuddihy said they would like to thank Unwind, South West Jewells Grenfell, Wild Child, Farm and Fable, Chrome Boutique, Grenfell Food Hall, Criterion Hotel, The Tin Cupboard, Grenfell Pharmacy and The Natural Home, Grenfell, Scope Clothing and Mick’s Local Bakery for supporting the raffle. For more information, contact Margaret Cuddihy on 6343 1237.

The Grenfell Senior Citizens Welfare Committee met on October 29. PHOTO:

Drum Muster collection

Pictured left: Ron and Eunice Huckel cut the cake on their 65th Wedding Anniversary.

1959.

DATES TO NOTE

WEDDIN SHIRE COUNCIL

CAMP STREET, GRENFELL NSW 2810 PHONE: 6343 1212

Thursday 7 November 2024 - Royal Far West | Street Stall

WEBSITE: www.weddin.nsw.gov.au

Thursday 7 November 2024 - Drop in for a chat with the General Manager | The Hub

Friday 8 November 2024 - Recycling Collection | East

Friday 8 November 2024 - Grenfell & District Senior Citizens Welfare Committee | Street Stall

Saturday 9 November 2024 - Grenfell RSL Sub Branch | Street Stall

Monday 11 November 2024 - Recycling Collection | Villages

Tuesday 12 November 2024 - Royal Far West | Street Stall

Wednesday 13 November 2024 - Garbage Collection | Villages

Thursday 14 November 2024 - Royal Far West | Street Stall

Friday 15 November 2024 - Grenfell Town & District Band | Street Stall

Saturday 16 November 2024 - Grenfell Town & District Band | Street Stall

ROAD & TRAFFIC CONDITIONS

Latest Road and Traffic Conditions information for Weddin Shire Council is available from NSW Live Traffic see: https://www.livetraffic.com/ Weddin Shire Council staff regularly monitors and updates the information on Live Traffic NSW. Should any further information be required please contact Council’s Infrastructure Services Department on (02) 6343 1212.

PUBLIC NOTICE | COMPANY DAM

Weddin Shire Council advises residents and visitors that blue-green algae has reappeared at Company Dam. We urge everyone to refrain from any contact with the water until further notice due to the presence of this algae. Bluegreen algae naturally occurs in lakes and dams, thriving in warm, nutrient-rich waters with sunlight exposure. Recent rainfall followed by warmer temperatures has created favourable conditions for its growth. Unfortunately, this has led to increased levels at Company Dam. Bluegreen algae impacts a number of lakes and dams across the state. Council Officers are actively monitoring the situation to ensure community safety. We apologise for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your cooperation. For more information, please contact Council’s Environmental Services team on (02) 6343 1212.

COMMUNITY VOTE: GRENFELL MOTEL MURAL PROJECT

Weddin Shire Council invites all residents to participate in the final stage of community consultation for the new mural on the western wall of the Grenfell Motel. This public art project has reached an exciting milestone, and we are eager to have the community’s voice help select the final concept.

How to Participate: Voting is open now and will close on Monday 11 November 2024 at 5:00pm View and Vote Online:

• Visit the Council’s website, the Visit Weddin website, or our social media pages to access the voting link.

• Scan the QR code on posters displayed around town to go directly to the voting page.

In-Person Voting:

• For those who prefer to vote in person, printed concepts and ballots are available at the Council office and the Grenfell Visitor Information Centre.

We strongly encourage everyone in the community to take part in this decision-making process, ensuring that the selected mural reflects our shared identity and values.

For further inquiries, please contact Claire or Elly at 02 6343 2059 or via email at info@visitweddin.com.au

ROAD CLOSURE NOTICE |

MAIN STREET GRENFELL NSW 2810

Council wishes to advise the community that there will be a number of nighttime sectional road closures taking place in Main Street for the installation of the new Main Street festoon lighting.

These closures are necessary to allow the contractors to

safely stand the new poles, string the new lighting and remove the redundant Essential Energy poles.

These sectional road closures will be total closures to pedestrians and vehicles between 6:00pm and 12:00am taking place on:

• Monday 18 November 2024

Caltex to Chrysler Car Museum

• Tuesday 19 November 2024

Chrysler Car Museum to Forbes Street

• Wednesday 20 November 2024

Forbes Street to Criterion Hotel

• Thursday 21 November 2024

Criterion Hotel to Albion Hotel

• Monday 25 November 2024

Albion Hotel to Short Street

• Tuesday 26 November 2024

Albion Hotel to Short Street

From Wednesday 27 to Thursday 28 November 2024 there will be intermittent closures around each pole to connect them.

Council envisages there will be some limited noise disturbances during this time as well.

These dates are subject to change and council will advise the community of any changes as soon as possible.

Should you have any questions please contact Claire McCann at the Grenfell Visitor Information Centre on 02 6343 2855.

DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & ASSESSMENT ACT 1979

DA 31/2024, (NSW Planning Portal No: PAN-454239)

Council has received an Application for a Demolition of Shed located at the rear of LOT: 6 DP: 449868, known as 110 Main Street GRENFELL NSW 2810.

Inspection: Development Application (DA) 31/2024 for a Demolition of Shed may be viewed online through the NSW Planning portal from 17 October 2024 to 7 November 2024.

DA 33/2024, (NSW Planning Portal No: PAN-459178)

Council has received an Application to replace a 15,000L aboveground fuel tank with 33,000L aboveground fuel tank on on LOT: 2 DP: 352088, known as 83 Camp Street GRENFELL NSW 2810. Inspection: Development Application (DA) 33/2024 to replace a 15,000L aboveground fuel tank with 33,000L aboveground fuel tank may be viewed online through the NSW Planning portal from 17 October 2024 to 7 November 2024.

DA 35/2024, (NSW Planning Portal No: PAN-469095) Council has received an Application for Minor building alterations (external) and installation of Art Mural on LOT: 1 Sec: 19 DP: 758473, known as 80-84 Main Street GRENFELL NSW 2810.

Inspection: Development Application (DA) 35/2024 for Minor building alterations (external) and installation of Art Mural may be viewed online through the NSW Planning portal from 24 October 2024 to 20 November 2024. If any technical issues are experienced on the NSW Planning Portal preventing the development application

being viewed, please contact Council via email mail@weddin.nsw.gov.au or by phone on 02 6343 1212 and details of the development will be forwarded to you. Submissions: Any person may make a submission via the NSW Planning Portal https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/daexhibitions within the advertised period. Submissions objecting to the development are required to specify the grounds for objection.

COUNCIL | POSITION VACANT

SENIOR PROJECT/WORKS ENGINEER - Council is seeking applications from suitably qualified and/or experienced staff to meet Council’s operational plan requirements for the position of Senior Project/Works Engineer, Permanent/Fulltime. Essential requirements for the role are Civil Engineering Degree, Certificate IV in Leadership and Management or demonstrated equivalent works experience ideally gained in a Local Government environment, White Card, C Class Driver’s Licence or above, Post Graduate qualifications. Applications close 5:00pm, Thursday 7 November 2024. Further information can be found at: https://www.weddin.nsw.gov.au/Council/ About-Our-Organisation/Employment

FROM THE MAYOR’S DESK

Last week, we celebrated two major community milestones: the sod-turning ceremony for the Taylor Park redevelopment, attended by the Honourable Stephen Lawrence and Steph Cooke MP, and the completion of renovations at the Quandialla Swimming Pool.

The Taylor Park project, soon to be known as Livvi’s Place, was inspired by a heartfelt request in 2022 from Grenfell resident Emily Essex, who advocated for an inclusive playspace accessible to all. Thanks to her dedication, along with funding from the NSW Government and a partnership with the Touched by Olivia Foundation, we are transforming Taylor Park into a vibrant, inclusive community hub. The sod-turning ceremony marked the start of this exciting journey. Once complete, Livvi’s Place will feature accessible pathways, recreational amenities, sensory play areas, and gathering spaces where residents and visitors can come together to play, socialise, and celebrate.

We also celebrated the completion of substantial upgrades at the Quandialla Swimming Pool. Funded by the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, with contributions from Council and the local fundraising committee, the pool’s amenities have been fully modernised. The updated facilities now offer hot water, improved male and female amenities, and a new kiosk, enhancing comfort and enjoyment for pool users. The pool is now open for the season, and we invite everyone to enjoy the refreshed facilities.

These projects reflect Weddin Shire’s commitment to creating accessible, inclusive, and community-centred spaces—made possible through the dedicated efforts of advocates like Emily and strong partnerships within our community.

Paul Best MAYOR

6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Martin Clunes: Islands Of The Pacific. 2.00 Escape To The Country. 3.00 I Escaped To The Country. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 5.00 Horse Racing. Five Diamonds Ladies Day and Keith Noud Raceday. 6.00 Dog Patrol. 6.30 The Highland Vet. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

8.40

Angel Has Fallen. (2019) Gerard Butler, Morgan Freeman, Danny Huston. 11.00 Inside Beverly Hills. New. 11.50 The First 48. 12.40 Tipping Point. 1.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 1.50 Keeping Up Appearances. 3.10 Antiques Roadshow. 3.40 MOVIE: Hell Is A City. (1960) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Antiques Downunder. 8.30 MOVIE: The

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Five Diamonds Ladies Day and Keith Noud Raceday. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Great Outdoors. 7.30 MOVIE: Independence Day: Resurgence. (2016) Liam Hemsworth, Jeff Goldblum. 9.55 MOVIE: I, Robot. (2004) Will Smith. 12.10 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 2.00 Motor Racing. Shannons SpeedSeries. Round 7. 4.00 Desert Collectors. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Football. AFL Women’s. First 9.15 MOVIE: Robin Hood. (2018) Taron Egerton. 11.30 Late Programs.

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A once-harmonious relationship appears to be hitting some sour notes. Spend some time together to see why things have gone off-key. What you learn might surprise you.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) You feel a need to make some changes. Good! You can do it on a small scale (some new clothes, for example) or go big and redecorate your home and/or office.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Control your tendency toward early boredom. A situation in your life might be taking a long time to develop, but patience pays off. Stay with it.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) You might feel like you’re on an emotional roller coaster this week. Don’t fret; just ride it out and let things settle down. A Pisces shows understanding.

Itself. (2018) 1.00 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Buffy The Vampire Slayer. 3.00 My Asian Banquet. 3.25 Modern Family. 3.50 Bondi Vet. 4.45 Australia’s Got Talent. 6.15 MOVIE: Ferdinand. (2017) 8.30 MOVIE: The Breakfast Club. (1985) Molly Ringwald, Ally Sheedy, Emilio Estevez. 10.35 MOVIE:

6.00 Getaway. 6.30 A Current Affair. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. 12.00 Horse Racing. Melbourne Cup Carnival. Stakes Day. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: Sully. (2016) Tom Hanks, Aaron Eckhart. 9.30 MOVIE: Plane. (2023) Gerard Butler, Mike Colter, Tony Goldwyn. 11.40 MOVIE: Judas And The Black Messiah. (2021) 2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. 2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 4.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Sydney Weekender. 11.00 Holistic Living. 11.40 Australia’s Cheapest Weddings. 1.00 Australia’s Got Talent. 2.30 Wife Swap Australia. 3.45 Dancing With The Stars: All Stars. 5.15 MOVIE: Goodbye Christopher Robin. (2017) 7.30 MOVIE: Big. (1988) Tom Hanks. 9.45 MOVIE: Beaches. (1988) Bette Midler. 12.25 Late Programs.

Wife. (2009) Eric Bana. 10.40 MOVIE:

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.20 Shark Tank. 11.25 Taskmaster Australia. 12.30 10 Minute Kitchen. 1.00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 1.30 The Dog Down Under. 2.00 Charming China. Return. 2.30 Buy To Build. 3.00 What’s Up Down Under. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 Cook With

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Helping Hands. 10.30 Antiques Downunder. 11.30 MOVIE: The Happiest Days Of Your Life. (1950) 1.15 MOVIE: Summer Holiday. (1963) 3.30 MOVIE: Clambake. (1967) 5.30 MOVIE: Separate Tables. (1958) 7.30 MOVIE: You’ve Got Mail. (1998) Tom Hanks. 9.55 MOVIE: Music & Lyrics. (2007) 12.05 Late Programs.

9News Sunday. 7.00 The Block. Final. 9.00 60 Minutes. 10.00 9News Late. 10.30 See No Evil. 11.30 The First 48. 12.20 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Holistic Living. 10.30 My Asian Banquet. 11.00 Farmer Wants A Wife. 12.30 Behave Yourself. 1.30 Wife Swap Australia. 3.00 Sean’s Kitchen. 3.30 Home And Away. 5.30 Gold Coast Ocean Rescue. 6.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. 10.30 Law & Order.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.30 MOVIE: 633 Squadron. (1964) 4.30 M*A*S*H. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 Rugby League. Championships. Men’s Bowl. Final. 8.15 Pacific Championship: Men’s Bowl – Final Post-Match. 8.30 MOVIE: Outbreak. (1995) Dustin Hoffman. 11.00 Chicago Med. 12.00 Late Programs.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Do something different for once: Compromise. A stubborn stand on an important issue proves counterproductive. You need to be open to new ideas.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) A friend offers advice that you perceive as an act of betrayal. But before you turn against the messenger, pay attention to the message itself.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A year of riding an emotional pogo stick finally settles down. Use this calmer period to restore frayed relationships and pursue new opportunities.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Your words can sting, so be careful how you respond to a friend’s actions. A calm approach could produce some surprising facts.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Be careful about whose secrets you’re being asked to keep. They could impose an unfair burden on a straight arrow like yourself.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) While you prefer taking the tried-and-true course in life, be adventurous this week and accept a challenge that can open up new vistas for you.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Your strong sense of justice helps you deal with a job-related situation. Stay with your principles. A Sagittarius emerges as a supporter.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) You need to build a stronger on-the-job support system to persuade doubting colleagues that your innovative proposals are workable.

CENTRAL WEST AND HILLTOPS

VIRTUAL FENCING ON NSW AGENDA

Central west feedlot west leading the industry the

By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK

GUNDAMAIN Pastoral Co has again been recognised on a national level being awarded 2024 Australian Feedlot of the Year (3000-8000 head).

Gundamain is located 4km out of Eugowra and has a multitude of enterprises including a cattle feedlot, sheep including first cross and Merino Ewes and prime lambs, a cropping enterprise where barley, wheat and canola is grown, hay production and an Angus breeding herd.

It’s not the first time the family operation has been recognised at these awards, but it’s certainly an honour.

“It’s very exciting, but we weren’t expecting it this year,” Caitlin Herbert said. “We were in the finals against another really good brand new feedlot and we’ve been here for about 25 years now so we were really surprised and happy with the outcome.”

Finalists for the awards are based on scores from the National Feedlot Insurance Scheme.

Feedlots are audited annually on everything they do, assessing animal welfare, staff retention, environmental stewardship and sustainability.

“They come out and assess us on those things every year which we quite like,” Caitlin said.

“It ensures the strength and continuation of the industry and it keeps you accountable to do the best job you can do.”

Judges then go out to feedlots who make the finals.

“The judges come out and visit and they ask you a multitude of questions on quality assurance, culture, product integrity, environmental responsibility, business planning and animal welfare responsibility and then they go for a drive around the feedlot and assess the facilities,” Caitlin said.

Gundamain are self sufficient in hay and silage for their feedlot.

“It is quite vertically integrated, all the cattle we breed come all the way through with us and we buy cattle locally from Forbes, Carcoar, Mudgee and Wagga,” Caitlin said.

“We’ve been providing from two markets, one for 15 years and and the other for 12, so we’ve been with our suppliers long term too.”

Gundamain has been in the Herbert family for 150 years, celebrating their sesquicentenary last year.

“It’s very special but it’s also a lot of responsibility too and really big shoes to fill from the past,” Caitlin said.

Caitlin is the first daughter to come back to the family farm and has now been there for five years with her husband Edward Thomas.

“We couldn’t picture being anywhere else,” Caitlin added.

Caitlin herself has completed a Nuffield scholarship in international drough practice in feedlots, that story page 4.

Caitlin Herbert and (inset) with Andrew and Tess Herbert at the Gundamain feedlot.

PHOTO: Supplied

New job opportunities with Apollo

LOCAL business Apollo Fabrication Group is strengthening its position as one of Australia’s leading structural steel specialists, supporting new job and career opportunities in the region.

The increasing demand for Apollo’s experience and expertise in delivering large-scale and complex steel structures has led the company to diversify into design consultancy and project management, in addition to its steel fabrication and installation services.

The highly regarded team is currently completing projects at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra and Australian Opal Centre at Lightening Ridge and will soon turn their focus to commencing another major commercial facility and a move

into transport infrastructure.

Apollo CEO Caleb Jackson said the business’ growth and diversification is opening opportunities for people to build their careers in Young, and the region to attract talent.

“We are actively recruiting for a number of corporate services roles, draftspersons, project managers, and site supervisors as well as launching a new round of our apprenticeship program,” Mr Jackson said.

“This is a perfect time for school leavers looking to enter a trade to consider a career in the dynamic steel industry.

“An apprenticeship with Apollo provides young people with career pathways in a range of sought-after trades.

“It also strengthens the local economy by building skillsets

RECRUITING NOW

and retaining those skills in our region.”

Apollo’s Training Opportunities Program equips school leavers and adults with no qualifications to complete Level 3 and 4 trade certifications through to diplomas, with the opportunity to go on to becoming a project manager or supervisor in the future.

These opportunities come at a time when the company is also looking at expanding its steel fabrication business in Young and opening other offices in metropolitan locations across the Eastern Seaboard.

“Currently on public

exhibition, the proposed rezoning of our land on Telegraph Road and staged expansion of the Young facility will help lay the foundation for our future growth,” Mr Jackson said.

For information on training and career opportunities at Apollo, visit the company’s website: www.apollofabrication.com.au

About Apollo Fabrication Group

FOUNDED in 2000, Apollo Fabrication Group is a family owned and operated business which started as a manufacturer of specialist waste management equipment.

Today, it is one of Australia’s leading names in structural and architectural steelwork, delivering bespoke building solutions across the education, health, industrial, residential, and defence sectors.

Based in Young, NSW, Apollo is dedicated to innovation, sustainability, and supporting the local community through job creation and economic development.

Apollo is seeking enthusiastic persons to join our expanding team.

From trades and site supervisors to draftspersons, project managers and corporate service roles.

Join the team shaping Australia’s steel construction industry right here in Young. Register your interest

Apollo has invested in a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant where we design, manufacture, coat, store and deliver our steel structures. Apollo is committed to continuously improving the sustainability of its products, as well as its processes.

Apollo Fabrication are looking for locals to join their team.

Finishing lambs? The benefits of BioPro

By AUSTRALIAN PROBIOTIC SOLUTIONS

AUSTRALIAN Probiotic Solutions

offers a natural and effective solution for animal nutrition through the use of probiotics.

The formula has been developed with leading microbiologists, industry vets, and nutritionists, and has been proven effective since 2004 in Australia.

BioPro products and benefits:

Home processing of grains and mixing

Our high strength product (BPH100HS) fed at 4 g/lamb/day for a cost of 3.5 cents or $2.09 per 60 day feeding period. This is added on top of the existing feeding program, assuming that you are mixing grain yourself and feeding through a mixing wagon or through self-feeders.

Two per cent inclusion, loose or pelleted additives

Our complete macro/micro pellet (or loose mix) with the probiotics included – which is equivalent to the two per cent inclusion products that you are probably familiar with (i.e. 1 bag per tonne etc).

This product will cost you 5 cents per lamb per day for a 20 g pellet, or 3.75 cents per lamb per day for a 15 g loose mix. All up this will be $3 per lamb for the pelletised product or $2.25 per lamb for the loose mix, working on the 60-day feeding period.

Stockfeed mill Inclusions

If you are buying ‘lamb finishing’ pellets from a stockfeed mill we recommend a different product with coated yeast (our Rumicell product) to withstand high manufacturing temperatures. The cost of this product is also about 3 cents per lamb per day,

which works out to $1.98 per lamb for the feeding period.

What’s in BioPro?

BioPro is unique in that it contains a combination of five different lactic acid bacteria (four of which are microencapsulated for safe delivery to the lower gut where they are activated by enzymes and go to work), an active live yeast (a specific strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae), and five digestive enzymes.

Most other products contain either yeast or bacteria only, and at significantly lower doses (measured in colony forming units per gram – ours is 26.3 billion cfu’s per gram or 5.25 billion cfu’s per lamb dose).

Key benefits of feeding BioPro are

1. Quicker turn-off of stock

2. Saving in protein cost per head

3. Reduced mortalities

4. Natural alternative to antibiotic Quicker turn-off

Let’s say that you want to take a lamb from 30 kg to 50 kg as quickly as possible. Based on energy, protein, and fibre, this can be achieved in about 60 days with a good composite lamb.

To reach this, lambs need to grow at 333 g/head/day, requiring everything to go smoothly. To achieve a faster turn-off, better feed conversion efficiency is essential, and that’s where the probiotics come in.

Our probiotics contain five specific types of bacteria (only one – Bacillus subtilis - has a role in the rumen and the rest in the lower gut), each with their own important role in digestion or immune boost response.

In addition, there is an active live yeast that promotes improved fibre digestion (through feeding and therefore promotion of various

bacteria, fungi and protozoa that increase microbial protein growth) and stabilises rumen pH. When the digestive enzymes (protease, amylase, cellulase, lipase, and pectinase) are added as well, maximum availability of the feed nutrients are achieved through their powerful hydrolyzing effect (turning feed components into a more usable form).

Together, this all means that more of the ‘potentially’ digestible components of the diet are digested (allowing for greater feed intake because the food is more completely digested in a shorter time and so the animal can fit more in), leading to improved liveweight gains – assuming that the diet is correctly balanced.

To cover the costs mentioned above, the lambs would only have to finish two to three days quicker.

In practice, this may look like heavier lambs at the end of the feedlot period if you are not weighing them regularly enough to know that they will achieve their target liveweight faster.

Saving in protein cost

When you feed a lamb, you are feeding a vast number of microbes in the rumen. These include bacteria, fungi, and protozoa primarily and their job is to digest feed sources that the lamb itself can’t utilise. They ferment the forages and grains

to energy sources called volatile fatty acids and protein sources to ammonia which they use to grow and multiply. With BioPro, beneficial microbe numbers are increased in both the rumen and the lower gut.

After extensive and ongoing manure testing of new customer herds (most of our testing has happened in cattle) and flocks, we have evidence to show how big the crude protein benefit of feeding a BioPro product is.

It is likely that the range will be between 20-25 g/cow/day of crude protein that can be attributed to our probiotics.

Why? Because 70 per cent of the lamb’s protein source is the microbes themselves, either from the rumen (stimulated by the yeast and the Bacillus) or coming out of the intestines (the Bacillus and other protected bacteria).

Whatever we do to grow more microbes will obviously effect the microbial crude protein pool, and then ultimately the amount of metabolizable protein available to the lamb. If protein supplements are not adjusted accordingly, this can result in increased protein content in the manure, representing wasted opportunity. We often advise customers to reduce protein supplements by an amount equivalent to the cost of BioPro, making it cost-

neutral while still enjoying greater efficiency.

Reduced mortality

Reduced mortality is one of the most noticeable paybacks we hear from long-term customers. This is driven by the Bacillus, as well as the rumen-protected bacteria included in BioPro, that go to work crowding out pathogens (the bad bugs) in the intestines and stimulating the immune system through secretion of bacteriocins.

When this BioPro bacterial work is combined with a good induction program (including drenching and vaccinating) and a better-balanced rumen (higher rumen pH etc..), it is not hard to understand how lower mortality rates could be achieved. If we assume that a 50 kg finished lamb is worth $200, then you only have to save approximately one extra lamb for every 100 lambs on feed, to start profiting from a ‘reduced mortality’ perspective.

Natural alternative to antibiotics

Our products are a natural alternative to antibiotics, which are no longer accepted by many processors like ALC, TFI, and JBS. We are essentially ‘supercharging’ the digestive system with the bugs and enzymes that we believe deliver the best outcomes in terms of digestive health and efficiency, as well as overall animal health.

Results and further research

We have many current customers who can confirm seeing these benefits, but we also have several on-farm demonstrations underway right now that we can report on in future. The first two are achieved by improving digestive efficiency, and the third by enhancing the immune response.

Feeding to fatten

Come

to

Study to inform our drought practice

By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK

DELIVERING consistently good cattle through dry times has been the focus of a year of international study for Eugowra’s Caitlin Herbert.

Caitlin, Gundamain Pastoral Co, was awarded the 2024 Nuffield Drought Resilience Scholarship to complete a year of international travel and write a paper.

“Historically our drought conditions in Australia force an intensification of our external beef industry, so I was looking into how feed lotting can work with the wider beef supply chain to maintain consistent cattle turn off despite variations in seasonal conditions,” Caitlin said.

“For example in drier years when destocking occurs, using feedlots to ensure we can continue to service beef

demand while grazing is limited.”

This interest stemmed from the 2018-2020 drought and Gundamain’s experiences in turn over in feedlot cattle and using the feedlot to fill the gap while beef supply was shortened.

“With Nuffield it’s given me an opportunity to take time away from our business specifically and explore operations similar to ours on a global scale with the same struggles as us and bringing back best practices, ideas and technologies both to our business and the wider agricultural community,” Caitlin said.

Highlights included, Brazil and Argentina in South America, Canada and the United States.

“Brazil has the second highest cattle population in the world and the highest

beef turn off,” she said.

“They export a lot to China and it was really interesting to see the scale of production in Brazil.”

Caitlin then went to Argentina as she said the model is quite similar to Australia, although they turn off their beef a lot quicker.

“Canada is very similar to Australia but they are dealing with huge weather

variability,” she said.

“Their temperatures in their feed yards were ranging from -50 degrees Celsius all the way to over 40. They generally have to feed their cattle all year round because they can’t leave them out on grass due to the weather.”

In the United States Caitlin visited Texas, Kansas, Nebraska and Colorado.

“The US is just coming out of a drought and Australia’s been exporting so much beef over there so it was really interesting,” she said.

“They have done a lot of work in heat mitigation. For example they have storm and heat stress rations where they adjust what the cattle are eating energy wise depending on what the weather was doing.

“They also have a lot of investment into research on feedlots, which is really different to Australia.”

The experience will benefit Gundamain and the wider Australian feed lotting and cattle industry.

“It helps us so we are better prepared for the next drought that hopefully won’t hit us but inevitably will,” she said.

State takes steps toward virtual fencing legislation

BRINGING stock virtual fencing to Parliament for debate is a key recommendation of the Committee on Investment, Industry and Regional Development.

The committee was tasked with reviewing the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Amendment (Virtual Stock Fencing) Bill 2024 (‘the bill’), to understand the proposed changes and implications of legalising the technology.

Now the State has taken one step closer to letting farmers virtually fence their livestock, with the committee recommending Parliament proceed to debate the bill, considering the evidence from the inquiry.

Member for Orange Philip Donato introduced the Bill to the Legislative Assembly in earlier this year.

“Virtual fencing is an innovative system that enables livestock

farmers to create virtual boundaries without the need for physical internal property fencing,” he told Parliament in February.

“Virtual fencing is invisible and somewhat intangible.

“The virtual boundary is created on a computer program using GPS technology for the purpose of confining stock animals to a predetermined area without using traditional fixed fencing.

“Stock animals are fitted with a neck collar that is powered by a solar-chargeable battery.

“When the stock animal approaches the pre-determined boundary, the collar emits an audible cue, followed by a safe electrical stimulus to deter the animal from the virtual fence line.

“The energy of the stimulus delivered by the collar is less than that of a standard electric fence.”

The benefits are manifold, Mr Donato told Parliament, and particularly important after the floods and fires of the past few years.

“Traditional fencing is not only costly to install and maintain but also limits the flexibility of grazing areas,” he said.

“With virtual fencing, farmers can adjust internal boundaries and move their livestock with ease, reducing labour and time requirements.

“This not only makes their operations more cost effective but also allows them to focus on other critical

aspects of their business.”

Committee chair Roy Butler MP said legalising the technology would bring New South Wales into line with other Australian and overseas jurisdictions that permit the commercial use of virtual stock fencing.

The committee heard from stakeholders including technology producers, animal welfare advocates, farmers, local councils, academics and members of the public.

The report considered the impact of virtual stock fencing on animals and recommended that the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development develop a mandatory code of practice to protect animal welfare.

“We believe that a mandatory code of practice will ensure safeguards are put in place and that technology producers are kept to high standards,” Mr Butler said.

Caitlin Herbert was one of five drought resilience scholars from around Australia.

PHOTO: Supplied

Stock animals are fitted with a neck collar that is powered by a solarchargeable battery.

PHOTO: Courtesy Philip Donato MP

CENTRAL WEST AND HILLTOPS

HARVEST Feature

Celebrating excellence in wheat production as judges tour State

SOUTHERN region growers are being urged to enter this year’s prestigious AgShows NSW Suncorp Bank Championship Dryland Field Wheat and Durum Competition.

This highly anticipated annual competition celebrates excellence in wheat production and provides an opportunity for growers to be recognised for their hard work in overcoming challenging conditions.

Stephen Hatty, Chair of the AgShows Wheat Advisory Committee, says the competition sees every kind of seasonal condition and challenge and through them all provides valuable opportunity to growers.

It is a chance to gain insights into best practices and innovations in wheat farming that can help improve productivity and sustainability across the sector.

Judging started up north and is progressing through the State, with judges in western NSW in October and central NSW in the first week of November.

“Up north we’ve been getting some pretty big results, some very good yields, very

nice crops up there,” Mr Hatty said.

“The western region - the Peak Hill and Hillston area we visited last week - they’re pretty nice crops.

“Further south here where I am near Ganmain we’ve seen a fair bit of frost damage but there’s an odd crop that has escaped without too much damage.”

Until those frosts, the season had been a pretty good one for the region.

“We certainly see a lot of seasonal conditions within the competition every year and because it is state-wide you pick up most events, good and bad, across the State you’ll find it,” Mr Hatty said.

He encourages growers to get involved - especially at a local level.

“I think the good thing about it is the networking and just seeing how your peers are going,” he said.

“Going on to a bigger level is all good too but I see the local level as much advantage as the state competition.

“Some of the competitions do a bus tour for the day when they’re judging their crops, it’s a good chance for

people to get out and about before harvest - and sometimes when you’ve had a bit of a hit in a year like this, then it’s a good chance to get out and talk about it.”

With frosts and dry weather across NSW throughout September, private forecasts predict Australia’s national wheat crop may fall below 30 million tonnes - well short of the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences’ (ABARES) September forecast of 31.8 million tonnes.

“While we may see a lower

national wheat crop this year, the competition remains an excellent opportunity for growers to demonstrate the effectiveness of their management practices under difficult conditions,” Mr Hatty said.

“Every year, we are impressed by the level of skill and innovation NSW growers bring to the table.”

September 20 is the deadline for entries from the Southern region which includes Albury, Ariah Park, Bribbaree, Boorowa, Coolamon, Cootamundra, Culcairn, Harden, Henty, Hol-

brook, Howlong, Illabo, Junee, Puccawan, Temora, The Rock, Wagga Wagga, Walbundrie, Wallendbeen, and Young.

To enter the competition, growers should contact their local competition coordinator.

A full list of local coordinators can be found on the AgShows NSW website - https://www.agshowsnsw. org.au/competitions/wheatcompetition - along with entry forms and judging criteria.

The state winner will be

revealed at the Wheat Presentation Dinner in Dubbo on January 12, 2025.

Judges have toured the top five western region results out of local crop competitions, which covers Ardlethan, Bogan Gate, Barellan, Barmedman, Beckom, Berrigan, Burcher, Condobolin, Caragabal, Corowa, Deniliquin, Finley, Ganmain, Griffith, Hillston, Lake Cargelligo, Leeton, Lockhart, Merriwagga, Narrandera, Oaklands, Peak Hill, Rand, Rankin Springs, Trundle, Tullamore, Tocumwal, Top Woodlands, West Wyalong, Weethalle, Ungarie, Urana.

This week they are judging central region crops, which includes Alectown, Binnaway, Canowindra, Carcoar, Coolah, Coonabarabran, Cowra, Cudal, Cumnock, Dubbo, Dunedoo, Eugowra, Forbes, Grenfell, Gulgong, Gunnedah, Manildra, Mendooran, Merriwa, Molong, Parkes, Premer, Quandialla, Quirindi, Spring Ridge, Tambar Springs, Tamworth, Wellington, Werris Creek, Wirrinya, Woodstock, and Yeoval.

A good crop starts with your sowing fertiliser

CREATING the ideal environment to sow a summer crop starts with good tilthy soil, good moisture, and a fertiliser that feeds and encourages beneficial microbiology to supply nutrients in a balanced form to the growing crop.

As farmers prepare to make a significant investment in down the tube fertiliser to sow summer crops they need to consider a fertiliser such as YLAD Multi-Species Grow, that is designed to promote and support beneficial soil microorganisms creating good soil structure that supports root growth and reduces erosion in both crops and soil quality over time.

YLAD Multi-Species Grow also encourages the growth of microbes that produce organic compounds, which help form soil aggregates, improving soil structure, aeration and water retention.

For the past 20 years, Rhonda has demonstrated

the capacity of healthy soils, filled with biology, to provide plants the vast majority of their nutritional needs. “Affordable investments like YLAD Multi-Species Grow will grow your below-ground biological herd.

This soil community will do a much more cost-effective job at getting the right nutrients to your plants at the right time,” which is not always the case with conventional fertilisers.

“Many farmers are still sowing multi-species crops with MAP or single super,” observes Rhonda, “which unfortunately means they are not getting the full benefits of microbial exudates and nutrient cycling offered by growing multiple species crops”.

To support farmers sowing multi-species crops, YLAD Living Soils has developed YLAD Multi-Species Grow. Designed specially to provide specific nutrition, as well as allowing for nitrogen fixa-

tion, it has proven a success in facilitating the necessary uptake of nutrients, trace minerals and microbial food supply for the multi-species

crops.

Production from paddocks where YLAD Multi-Species Grow has been used have shown a 49 per cent yield

in prime lambs and Angus Steers gaining up to 2.5 kgs per day.

A reduction in harmful pathogens is associated with this YLAD M fertiliser due to it supporting beneficial organisms such as mycorrhizal fungi and biocontrol bacteria.

Multi-Species Grow is easy and safe to work with. This granular fertiliser is applied down the tube with sowing, at an application rate of 66 kg/ha. Compared with other typical MAP fertilisers, not only is Multi-Species Grow an easy substitute using the same equipment, but it is also much more affordable and non-toxic to farmers and soil.

Multi-Species Grow offers a helpful amount of buffered nitrogen, meaning traditional nitrogen fertilisers are less necessary, while microbes in in the soil build back their ability to fix nitrogen naturally. As such, farmers who have applied Multi-

Species Grow have reported increased root nodulation, mass, and depth.

Farmers have also observed more life in their soil, improved quality and nutrient density in their livestock forage, and increased health in their following round of crops.

All of these outcomes mean a decreased likelihood of disease and pest problems for crops and herds.

Science is even demonstrating how having more diverse plants on your farm means that your landscape releases more bacteria and terpenes during transpiration, which not only cools your landscape, but also improves rain nucleation in your precipitation shed.

To learn more about using Multi-Species Grow to gain greater productivity and profitability call: Rhonda Daly on 1 300 811 681 or email info@yladlivingsoils. com.au

Barry Unger, Ben Graystone, Greg Diener and Frank McRae in a central district finalist crop at Peak Hill.

PHOTO: AgShows NSW

David Bushell and Bill Daly, YLAD Living Soils. PHOTO: Supplied

Weather bites but national crop still forecast to be ‘marginally larger’

By RABOBANK

AUSTRALIA is looking towards harvesting a “marginally larger” winter crop this season, despite significant weather challenges experienced in a number of key grain-growing regions throughout the year, Rabobank says in its 2024/25 Australian Winter Crop Forecast.

The agribusiness banking specialist says the nation is on track to produce an estimated total winter crop of 47.1 million tonnes, up one per cent (0.5 million tonnes) on the previous season, but down 13 per cent on the fiveyear average.

Report author, RaboResearch analyst Vitor Pistoia, said the projected “small uptick” in total crop production in 2024/25 was “poised to come mainly from wheat” and, to a smaller extent, pulses and oats.

“While the wheat harvest is expected to be an improvement on last year, canola and barley production look set to be down year-on-year due to the combination of low rainfall and late frost which struck many crops at a critical period,” he said.

Mr Pistoia said this winter cropping season had been a “mixed bag”, characterised by patchy rainfall, a warm winter and late frosts.

“This season’s start was variable across the country,” he said.

“While Queensland, the majority of New South Wales and one particular region in Western Australia (around Corrigin in the Central Wheatbelt) got going early on, large swathes of WA, Victoria and South Australia had to wait until early June to see seed germination,” he said.

“Similarly, rainfall through the growing season was patchy and this was coupled with a widespread warmer winter.

“Higher winter temperatures – of up to two degrees Celsius above average depending on the region –boosted water evaporation at the same time it prompted faster crop development.”

LATE FROST: Then, in mid-September, Mr Pistoia said, the south-eastern part of Australia’s cropping belt – including in some areas of South Australia – had been struck by consecutive nights of late frost.

“This cold snap damaged crops to differing degrees and prompted many farmers to cut them for hay, especially in the regions already affected by low rainfall volumes, such as Victoria and South Australia,” he said.

New South Wales is projected to have 14.6 million tonnes of total winter crops heading to its harvest bins this season.

Mr Pistoia said growing conditions for winter crops had been good in the state until mid-September, except for in southern regions such as Albury. However, the mid-September frost events had impacted crops, particularly around areas including Forbes, Grenfell and Griffith.

PRICE OUTLOOK: Once harvested, Australia’s grains and oilseeds look set to trade in a relatively range-bound market when it comes to prices, the report says, with the exception of canola, where “market fundamentals” support an outlook for higher prices.

“The worldwide grain and oilseeds outlook has changed in recent months from a potential glut to a patchier stocks picture,” Mr Pistoia said.

“An uncertain outlook for Black Sea wheat production due to dry weather is supporting wheat prices, although this is being buffered by notable increases in US wheat and corn stocks.”

Compared with the past 20 years, the 2024/25 projected global stocks-to-use ratios of wheat and corn are “virtually at their median point”, the report says, while soybeans and rice are above it.

“This reinforces the relative ‘comfort zone’ the global market sees itself in,” Mr Pistoia said.

“There are though some outlier crops in this picture within the oilseeds complex. Globally, stocks of sunflower and canola are projected to be tight due to weather problems and also geopolitical issues weighing on production.”

For wheat, the bank forecasts APW (Australian Premium White) port prices to range between AUD 320 and AUD 360/tonne by the end of 2024 until half way through the first half of 2025.

For barley, lower global stocks of the malting variety are supporting prices for some regions, although not

KEEP HARVEST FLOWING WITH AGI WESTFIELD AND BEULAH MACHINERY COWRA

RELIABLE equipment and dealer service will be crucial in keeping harvest flowing throughout the region over the next few months.

Beulah Machinery in Cowra has geared up to keep the season running smoothly by backing farmers with outstanding AGI Westfield auger deals, service, support and the all-important spare parts required.

Beulah Machinery Workshop Manager and AGI Westfield specialist, Mick Schaefer, explained farmers can’t go wrong with trusted international brands like AGI Westfield backed by solid local businesses like Beulah.

“AGI Westfield has been a trusted name in the Australian agricultural community for many years,” Mick outlined.

“Established in Manitoba, Canada, AGI and their brand AGI Westfield, have produced grain augers since 1951.

“They understand farmers want affordable, simple, straightforward designs for labour saving performance and dependability.

“AGI has become the leading grain auger manufacturer in the world due to their commitment to design and innovation.

“For filling the largest silos as quickly as possible, you can’t beat the quality of AGI Westfield swingaway augers.

“Built strong and designed to last, these augers come in 10”, 13” and 16” with precisionengineered auger flighting and commercial strength frame/ trussing.”

Beulah also supplies the AGI Westfield conventional auger range, the proven workhorse of every operation. Made for durability, longevity, and capacity, the STX2 delivers on all accounts and will move grain fast.

“The AGI Westfield STX2 selflevelling motor with redesigned guards is mounted to the frame, maintaining proper tension at all heights,” Mick explained.

“This saves the operator from having to reset the belt tension once the auger is raised into position to provide better traction.”

Supported by an RHS heavy duty undercarriage, the barrel sizes come in 8” and 10” and range in length from 31’ to 61’.

They are designed with ease of use in mind.

“The self-propelled kit also automatically adjusts the intake height when auger discharge is raised or lowered,” Mick said.

“These practical features, along with the lengthy list of standard inclusion, are the key reasons we stock these outstanding augers.”

Beulah Machinery Pty Ltd began in Cowra NSW in 1996 as a farm-based agricultural equipment distributor and dealer.

“At Beulah, we use what we sell and we back what we sell with first class customer service, spare parts and support,” Mick said.

“We have an extensive range of AGI Westfield auger and conveyor parts for your seasonal maintenance and repair.

for Australia, Mr Pistoia said.

“Despite the lower stocks, global demand for malting barley is also soft and in addition Australia’s distance from key markets puts us at a disadvantage,” he said.

“However, the re-opening of the Chinese market to Australian barley producers is supporting the Australian barley demand outlook.

Following the removal of Chinese tariffs on Australian barley, China regained its position as the number one destination for Australia’s barley exports in 2023/24.”

Based on current barley market fundamentals, the report has port zone feed barley forecast to trade in the AUD 290 to AUD 320/tonne range.

“For malting barley, the outlook is to have minimal, if any, discount compared with APW wheat,” he said.

For cereal hay, assuming a slight increase in cattle and sheep prices and that feedlots maintain high numbers of cattle on feed during 2025, the bank is forecasting prices to likely range between AUD 350 and AUD 400/tonne. Although this may be adjusted by summer rainfall and the La Nina outlook, Mr Pistoia said.

For canola, the Rabobank report says, a combination of global geopolitics, bad weather and high farming costs has tempered harvest sizes.

“A wet summer in the EU and a hot dry one in the Black Sea region has exacerbated a supply shortfall of canola,” Mr Pistoia said.

“In addition, the continuing solid demand for vegetable oil is sustaining canola demand, while the EU tariffs on Russian and Belarussian oilseed imports mean the EU now needs to source this supply internally or from other exporting countries.”

And with the European preference for non-GM canola, Mr Pistoia said, Canada, the world’s largest canola exporter, was not in a good position to fulfil this demand, despite rebuilding its stocks after a reasonable harvest.

“Putting all these elements into the picture, we expect Australian non-GM port prices for canola could range between AUD730 and AUD 780/ tonne in the first half of 2025, and the GM canola price to potentially trade at an eight to 12 per cent discount to this,” he said.

At Beulah, we use what we sell and we back what we sell with first class customer service, spare parts and support.

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ABOVE: Beulah Machinery in Cowra has geared up to keep the season running smoothly.

RIGHT: Beulah Machinery in Cowra is backing farmers with outstanding AGI Westfield auger deals, service and support.

Hutcheon and Pearce helping you this harvest season

AS the harvest season approaches, time is of the essence.

Every moment counts, and equipment downtime can mean the difference between a profitable yield and lost potential.

At Hutcheon & Pearce, we understand how critical it is to keep your machines running smoothly, and that’s why we are dedicated to standing by our customers when they need us most.

With over 70 years of experience serving the agricultural community, Hutcheon & Pearce is committed to supporting farmers through the highpressure demands of harvest.

Additionally, with access to genuine John Deere parts and cutting-edge diagnostic tools, Hutcheon & Pearce is equipped to resolve problems quickly and effectively.

At Hutcheon & Pearce, we’re a partner in your success. We know the challenges you face during the harvest season, and we are here to make sure that your machines are in top shape, allowing you to focus on what matters most - a successful and productive harvest.

At both our Forbes and Cowra branches, we are here to helpwhether it’s providing rapid parts delivery, expert repairs, or preventative maintenance, our team of skilled technicians are ready to respond, reducing downtime and helping you get back in the paddock faster. We also offer a suite of innovative John Deere technologies designed to increase efficiency and keep you informed, such as JDLink, which monitors equipment health in real-time, alerting you to potential issues before they turn into costly delays.

For more information, phone the Forbes branch on (02) 6862 1666 or the Cowra branch on (02) 6341 4800.

Hutcheon and Pearce is here to help this harvest, whether it’s providing rapid parts delivery, expert repairs, or preventative maintenance.

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Successful year for Kianma Poll Herefords

By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK

KIERIN and Nikki Martin of Kianma Poll Herefords in Forbes have had an impressive year on the show circuit.

Taking a team of cattle to Sydney, Rockhampton, Brisbane and Melbourne they have been awarded multiple champion ribbons.

Their top performing bull Kianma T-Rex T002 claimed supreme champion bull at the Sydney Royal and grand champion bull at Brisbane Ekka and Beef Australia in Rockhampton.

The first show to kick off Kierin’s and Nikki’s year was the Sydney Royal where not only did Kianma T-Rex perform well but Kianma Last Day T016 was awarded junior champion female and stood top three of the junior heifer interbreed and Kianma Poll Herefords won pair of junior females.

Kianma Poll Herefords then made their showring debut at Beef Australia after a 19 hour trip with four head and a calf.

Hereford and Poll Hereford en-

tries were judged by American Hereford Association Executive Vice President Jack Ward with associate judge Mitchell Taylor, Quipolly, New South Wales.

Kianma Last Day T016 was again junior champion female, Kianma Princess T006 reserve junior champion female and Kianma Princess S009 grand champion female and her January drop heifer calf Kianma Princess V1.

“This cow has a tremendous amount of presence, quality and look about her. She has width and dimension to her chest and is nursing a beautiful heifer calf with a lot of quality. The teat size is really nice, and she has excellent milk flow,” Mr Ward said to Herefords Australia.

Kianma T-Rex T002 also stood in top seven line up in the Beef Australia interbreed with Kianma going on to win the group class.

The July 2022 drop T-Rex was sired by Eathorpe Precision P040 and out of Kianma Matchless P009.

Mr Ward said the champion was structurally sound, with balance and quality, muscle expressed

down the top line, good weight for day of age, and a tidy sheath.

“Beef Australia was a pretty good experience, we got a lot out of it,” Kierin said.

At the Brisbane Ekka Kianma TRex T002 was again senior champion bull and grand champion bull with Kianma also placing second in the breeders group.

The last show of the year for Kianma Poll Herefords was the Melbourne Royal.

Kianma performed well being awarded the most successful Hereford exhibitor.

Other results included Kianma Top Shelf T014 grand Champion bull, supreme Hereford exhibit and reserve champion interbreed bull, Kianma Matchless U007 Junior Champion Female and Kianma also took out the breeders group.

“Melbourne Royal was a pretty good end to a really good year.

“Finally we’ve had a ticket to every big interbreed in the country this year and finally got one across the line which was good.

Amongst shows Kianma Poll her-

Spring is storm season but they’ve been patchy so far.

Season could be warmer, wetter than average: Bureau

THERE is a chance of above-average rainfall as well as temperatures for our region for the next three months.

Much of the region had a drier than average start to the Spring, with rainfall below long-term medians in September and October, but the Wyangala Dam storage was still at 94 per cent at the end of October.

In the Bureau of Meteorology’s long-range forecast released October 31, senior climatologist Stephanie Jacobs said much of the country could expect rainfall and temperatures above long-term averages in the next three months.

Parts of eastern, western and far northern Australia are predicted to see above average rainfall from November to January, and the central mainland rainall within the typical seasonal range.

The one-month outlook for Parkes indicates a 60 per cent chance of exceeding median rainfall, with the same at the Young end of our region and a slightly higher chance just to the west. Days and nights are likely to be warmer than average, with a greater than 70 per cent chance of exceeding the median temperature in the Parkes region and 80 per cent chance for the Hilltops. So far, Spring has been drier than predicted across much of this area.

efords have also had a successful sale year.

They travelled to Wodonga in May for the Wodonga Hereford National Show and Sale.

“We sold a bull there for $10,000,” Kierin said.

“We also had our own on property sale in August.

“We had an 80% clearance on sale day and we have sold everything since so we’ve sold all our sale cattle for the year which is pretty good.”

Kianma Poll Herefords was established in 2008 by Kierin.

“It began for me with Herefords as that’s where we gained support and then it grew to a passion for the cattle.

“We just really like what the cattle have to offer, they suit our business model very well, that’s how it started and it’s grown to our business now, it’s what we know and where we want to head.

“It has certainly been a successful year and we are absolutely happy with the results.”

Kierin and Nikki with Kianma Poll Herefords are already planning for 2025.

Parkes airport recorded 24mm of rain for the month of September, below the median of 33.4mm, and 36.8mm in October, the median 36.9mm.

Forbes had below median rainfall in September of 20.2mm (median of 31.2mm) and October with 29mm in October (median of 34mm). Cowra had 19mm in September, below the 34mm median, and did get some more rain in October with 42.4mm, above the 39mm median.

Young had a drier September with 3mm recorded at the airport and 13.2mm recorded in October, well below the medians of 35.8mm and 43.2mm.

The El Nino Southern Oscillation and the Indian Ocean Dipole were both neutral at the time of the report.

The Bureau of Meteology has urged people to understand local fire danger risk ahead of the season and review bushfire emergency plans.

Kianma Last Day T016 was awarded junior champion female and stood top three of the junior heifer interbreed at they Sydney Royal.

Kianma Top Shelf T014 won supreme Hereford exhibit with Kierin and Nikki Martin.

Kianma T-Rex T002 claimed supreme champion bull at the Sydney Royal and grand champion bull at Brisbane Ekka and Beef Australia in Rockhampton.

Riley Martin, Nikki Martin, Mark Skown, Kierin Martin, Tabby Cross, Mitch Taylor, Blair Martin and Jack Ward with Senior and grand female champion was awarded to Kianma Princess S009 (AI) (P) and her January drop heifer calf, Kianma Princess V1 at Beef Australia in Rockhampton. PHOTOS: Supplied

Selling centre celebrates 60 years

By DAN RYAN

LIKE any other selling day, the 60th anniversary of Cowra’s Saleyards was a cacophony of creaky gates and the calls of sheep, being drowned out by prices, bids and the discussions of the market among mates.

For 60 years, the saleyards has played a vital role in the agricultural economy, serving as a hub for farmers and buyers to conduct business, with this day something of a milestone for generations of farmers and buyers alike who have witnessed and borne change at the mercy of markets and drought.

Les Sutherland, who was born in Cowra, says the biggest milestone for him was the first $50 suckling lamb.

“I was only a kid but I can remember the closing of Homebush saleyards.

“We’d put sheep on the train to go all the way from Koorawatha,” he said.

“When you think about it, they were sending them to Homebush, and next day they’d be selling them so they’d have to have been efficient.”

Chris Cummins has over 35 years livestock buying experience, starting with PD Mulligan, and he’s bought plenty through Cowra saleyards.

“Everyone over the region sold their lambs in Cowra,” he said.

A common theme brought up by farmers was the social aspect of the saleyards, where people in a common trade are often separated by large distances and busy schedules - there’s little other

chance for them to meet.

Mr Cummins said the saleyards also needed to be preserved for the vital role they play in the region.

“Saleyards still play a very important role for setting the benchmark for prices.

“They’re still an integral part of the community,” he said.

Paul Dresser of JJ Dresser also said he’d seen a great deal of change.

“I was here at the first sale in 1964, my father was on the saleyard committee who helped start the yards, and I’d just left school,” he said.

“My brother and myself started selling in 1971 and have been ever since.

“You see a lot of change, in that era a trade lamb was 16 kilos. And now they’re 23.

“To say to someone in 1970 ‘there’ll be lambs in these saleyards here that’ll weigh 34 kilos they’d have shaken their heads and walked away.”

Mr Dresser echoed Mr Cummins’ words about the value of the yards as a social space.

“I think it’s a wonderful thing, the social side of farming.

“To be able to talk about what is going on at your place, which you’re terribly worried about, you’ll find many of the others are having the same problems,” he said.

“It eases your mind to talk to them and see what they’re doing about it and then you can go home.”

Mr Dresser, having attended the yards for years, reinforced the value of the yards

as a measure of quality.

“It’s very important, as small a saleyard it is, the quality here would be 90 percent top quality lambs and that’s what keeps this saleyard rolling through,” he said.

The next generation of salesmen, sellers and buyers, is in good hands with Cooper and Joe Sullivan, as well as Will Cain.

All three expressed their admiration for the generations who had kept the trade going.

Mr Cooper Sullivan told the Cowra Guardian that he’d been shown a photo of Joe Dresser who helped design the saleyards.

“So I suppose it’s intertwined with Dresser’s blood and history, there’s a fair bit of a connection,” he said.

“The farmers probably only come off the property once or twice a week, talk shop and see how everyone’s going.”

Mr Sullivan said the Saleyards were known for their quality and transparencyand their location, location, location.

“That’s why why Cowra’s so strong, it’s that it’s located in the breadbasket of the state. Everywhere you look, for a 300 km radius, it’s prime land,” he said.

“The saleyards are just one of many avenues you can go down.

“If they’re quality stock, you’ll find five or six processors standing up there waiting for you.”

Farmer feedback to improve advice and support

A NEW study is being launched that will give landholders the opportunity to complete a short survey once a year for five years to track current and future land management practices in NSW and improve support for farmers. Manager Strategy, Evaluation and Business Improvement Tracey Potts said the study will help measure Local Land Services’ reach and impact across regional NSW, while continually improving its services.

“Local Land Services has thousands of touchpoints with farmers and landholders each year through events, training and one-on-one support,” Ms Potts said.

“This study asks one fundamental question: what influence does our agency have on land managers’ adoption of best-practice systems?

“These valuable insights will help us tailor our information and services to provide more targeted support.”

The survey covers a range of

basic and progressive practices as they relate to the agency’s services, including sustainable agriculture, natural resource management, animal biosecurity and welfare, and invasive species.

It asks landholders how they manage threats on their property, manage natural and production assets, and prepare for change and emergencies.

Landholders who own or manage 2Ha of land or more are invited to take the initial baseline survey by November

30, 2024 to be part of the study. Those who do so will go in the draw to win a prize. Register online at regionalnsw.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/ SV_a9R0O5fOGxOVidw or visit the website for more information at www.lls.nsw.gov.au/ what-we-do/our-major-projects/measuring-what-matters

The Measuring What Matters project aims to evaluate the impact of Local Land Services’ advice and programs to best meet landholders’ needs.

COWRA REGIONAL AL LIVESTOCK SELL SELLING CENTRE

Prime lamb and Sheep Sale every Wednesday 11:30am.

• Selling Agents • Allan Gray & Co • Normal C. Bellamy

• JJ Dresser & Co • James P Keady • Elders – Cowra

• Kevin Miller Whitty & Co • Landmark Cowra

The Cowra Saleyards has been selling quality for 60 years.

Will Kane, Joe and Cooper Sullivan.

Chris Cummins and Paul Dresser said the yards were important for their quality and social value.

Les Sutherland and Graham Clements at the 60 year celebrations.

A new study is being launched, that will give landholders the opportunity to track current and future land management practices in NSW and improve support for farmers. PHOTO: Supplied

Shoring up sheep industry future

Two of the region’s most promising young stock auctioneers, Jack Harper and Darcy Howard, see the Cowra Show Society ‘s Hoof and Hook competition which they hosted in October as a promotional tool for the industry.

“We’ve nearly doubled (entries) this year and have students from St Raphael’s School giving us a hand,” Mr Harper said.

“It was nice to see the kids get involved and show a bit of interest,” he said.

Judging of the hoof section was completed at the Cowra Show on October 19 before the 180 lambs entered were sent to Cowra’s Breakout River meets, who Mr Harper thanked for being involved, the following week for judging on the hook.

He also thanked Glen Peterson from Thomas Foods International who undertook the hoof judging and took the time to explain the process to students who assisted on the day.

“When I’m looking to buy stock we’re always looking at meat yields, it’s not the live weight, I’m looking at the carcass weight,” Mr Peterson told the students.

“You can have two lambs of the same weight but with a different build that will give you more meat,” he said.

Mr Peterson went on to explain to the students how they could envisage what a lamb looked like from the size of the chop they purchase in the supermarket or butcher shop.

trade, hoof export and hoof export sections..

Second in the hoof trade section was a tie between M Thornberry and Tom Harris.

The hoof export runner up was again M Thornberry.

Second in the heavy class was Tom Harris.

In the shorn category first in the hoof section went to A,R,P and J Hurrell with the Boyd Bros taking second place.

In the hook categories first in the trade section went to PA and ML Weal with F Trengrove in second place.

The export category went to Brett and Shaneen Treasure with A,R,P and J Hurrell in second place.

In the heavy lambs equal first on the hook went to P Sturgess and Elmsleigh Partnership.

The best of the shorn lambs on the hook was awarded to Boyd Bros with Brett and Shaneen Treasure in second place.

“Thanks to our sponsors and the exhibitors,” Mr Harper said.

“You don’t have these competitions unless people want to get involved and showcase their product.

“Hopefully it just keeps growing from here,” Mr Harper said, explaining entries had nearly doubled in 2024.

“The feedback from everyone has been really good, the vendors loved it, we’ve got a few sponsors on board.

“We’re very happy with the quality, everyone has done a good job presenting them, even with a bit of rain on them they’ve still presented really well,” he said, in a year that the district’s lambs are “doing very well”.

Judging of both the lambs on the hoof and the hook is done blind with the judges unaware of the owners of the lambs.

The champion lamb of the show on the hoof was exhibited by Ross Graham who also took out the champion lamb on the hook to go along with successes in the hoof

“It’s a good way for local producers to show off their stock and get a bit of recognition from the locals who come through on the day and have a look at how well the industry is put together,” Mr Harper said.

YOU KNOW the Central West and Hilltops Farmer newspaper reaches over 20,000 READERS every month?

Sheep and goat eID tag discount program is open

The $10.2 million electronic identification device Tag Discount Program is now live and available to support producers with the costs of eID devices for sheep and goats.

The use of eID tags will become mandatory commencing 1 January 2025 for all sheep and goats born from this date.

Under the program, producers will receive a discount of $0.76 (including GST) per eID device purchased between November 1, 2024 and October 31, 2025, or until funds are exhausted.

The discount program will ensure there are eID tags available to producers from $1.

To take advantage of this program, sheep and goat producers in NSW must have an active Property Identification Code (PIC) and purchase eligible devices from participating retailers or directly from manufacturers during the specified period.

duce the duration and industry impact of any emergency animal disease or residue incident.

Eligible white 2025 NLISaccredited eID devices will have the discount automatically applied at the point of sale, meaning producers will pay $0.76 less (including GST) than the original retail price when purchasing online or in-store.

For more information please visit the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website and sign up to the NSW sheep and goat eID newsletter.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said the program would help farmers prepare for the future of livestock management in NSW.

The structure of this discount program is designed to maximise benefits for producers while minimising administrative responsibilities, with the discount applied directly at the point of sale with participating device manufacturers and retailers.

The government says the move to eID devices will ensure more accurate and timely traceability to help re-

Producers who require more than 3500 devices under the program will need to request pre-approval via the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website.

The discount can be applied on one order per PIC. Multiple orders are allowed for orders greater than 3500 devices, with pre-approval.

“By streamlining the purchasing process and providing significant discounts on eID devices, we are reducing the administrative load for producers,” she said.

‘This is about protecting the state’s $21.2 billion agriculture sector from biosecurity threats and ensuring our export markets remain secure.”

Organisers Darcy Howard (left) and Jack Harper (right) with judge Glen Peterson and son Archie with the champion lambs exhibited by Ross Graham at the Cowra Show.

The use of eID tags will become mandatory for all sheep and goats born from January 1, 2025.

PHOTO: DPI

Connecting rural women in Harden

NSW Rural Women’s Network Gathering a time to share inspiration, learning and laughter

By REBECCA HEWSON

LADIES from across the state converged on Harden Murrumburrah to take part in the NSW Rural Women’s Network Gathering.

The weekend-long event not only focused on community, connection and women, it also highlighted the Harden Murrumburrah region as well with events held at The Lighthorse Hotel, the Harden Country Club, the Harden Murrumburrah Arts Council and the Harden Murrumburrah Community Markets.

The Harden Country Club was a hive of activity on the Saturday.

Thanks to sponsors from Harden Bearings and Hardware, Stocklive, the Harden/Boorowa branch of the NSW Farmers, Hilltops Council, Yarrawonga, Harden Murrumburrah Rural Development Corporation, PKF, Flemings Rural, Long Track Pantry - Jugiong, Back Creek Orchard, Hardrock Gym and the Harden Country Club participants enjoyed three amazing workshops throughout the day that focused on fun, fitness, mental health and wellbeing as well as learning new skills, or brushing up on old ones.

HRDC Deputy Chair Samantha Flanery was the emcee for the day and welcomed everyone, Wiradjuri Elder, Aunty Lill Cooper said a very touching Welcome to Country before Minister for Women, Seniors, Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison MP spoke.

Monitor rams, keep bruco out of your flock

By NIK CRONIN CENTRAL WEST LLS

OVINE brucellosis, or ‘bruco’ in sheep, is the most common cause of infertility in rams.

It is diagnosed with varying frequency depending on where you are in New South Wales.

I generally say it is uncommon in our local area in Forbes, but over the past six months I have seen a few positive lab results come in which is a bit of a concern.

Bruco is a bacterial infection of the ram’s reproductive organs.

It causes an inflammatory reaction which can partially or completely obstruct the passage of sperm.

In most cases there are secondary changes that can be palpated in the scrotum of an infected animal.

There may be enlarged (early on) or shrunken testicles (a more chronic sign), with lumps or bumps in the epididymis. One or both sides may be affected.

Infection spreads when an infected ram and a clean ram mate the same ewe, and also during homosexual activity between rams out of joining.

There is no treatment for bruco, so infected rams need to be culled. This is expensive where there is a high infection rate.

If you have any concerns regarding bruco, or the fertility of your sheep flock, you can talk to your local district vet at the Central West Local Land Services Forbes office on 6850 1600.

Eradication programs can be drawn out as repeat testing is required as part of the process.

As always, prevention of infection is the best strategy.

To prevent the introduction of bruco to your sheep flock; - Prevent strays. This is simple but crucial biosecurity, and even more important with a few more positive cases turning up in our district

- Examine ram testicles at least annually as part of a pre-breeding soundness check around 12 weeks before joining.

Any with abnormalities can be examined by a vet and tested for bruco

- Buy rams from studs that participate in the NSW Ovine Brucellosis Accreditation Scheme (and that also means don’t buy rams from the sale-

yard!)

- While ewes can carry bruco, infection is said to be short-term. So the risk of introducing infection in introduced ewes can be managed by isolating dry ewes for at least one month before joining; or with pregnant ewes, lambing them in isolation and not joining them for four months post lambing.

More in-depth information on bruco can be found in this NSW DPI Primefact, including a link to really handy video demonstrating ram scrotal palpation.

If you have any concerns regarding bruco, or the fertility of your sheep flock you can talk to your local district vet at the Central West Local Land Services Forbes office on 6850 1600 or your private vet.

Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty MLC, wasn’t able to make it to the event, however, she sent a video message to everyone, focusing on the importance of rural and regional women in NSW.

Jana Pittman spoke on balance, her own personal experiences with Olympics, both summer and winter, studying medicine, the importance of female health, her family, and putting things into perspective.

Her speech was touching, funny and insightful, and of course inspirational.

Later in the day there was another very insightful panel with Kimberley Furness, Ruby Riethmuller and Jana Pittman on empowering women in regional, rural and remote NSW and how to overcome the barriers to professional and personal fulfillment.

Attendees were able to ask questions and speak with Kimberley, Ruby and Jana and personally share their own experiences and ask for advice, help etc.

On Saturday night there was a dinner with plenty of entertainment and the opportunity on Sunday to attend the Harden Murrumburrah Community Markets, where they could sample and purchase local products and produce.

The entire event was applauded by Women NSW, attendees who came from across NSW and Victoria and everyone involved.

A huge congratulations goes out to the Harden-Murrumburrah committee on their hard work, dedication and going above and beyond to put on what was an amazing event that celebrated women from the country and bush.

The 2025 Gathering will be held in Lismore.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke had a fantastic time making her new scarf.

Harden Murrumburrah Regional Development Corporation Deputy Chairperson Samantha Flanery was MC for the 2024 Rural Women’s Gathering.

Jana Pittman’s address to the 2024 Rural Women’s Gathering was funny, poignant and challenged us to change our perspective.

Kimberley Furness talking about how to cultivate a community of rural and regional business women.

Imogen and Ebony Ryan and Isabelle Whiteman ready to go on the dodgemsfree all day at Eugowra’s Canola Cup day.

FABULOUS

rawfor

AT SPRING RACES

SPRING RACING HAS BEEN IN FULL SWING AROUND THE REGION, WITH THE SUN SHINING ON GREAT DAYS HOSTED BY COUNTRY RACING CLUBS.

ACING WING ON, WITH THE ING T BY LUBS.

Forbes

Fashions

i

Best Dressed Gent Harrison Terry at the Forbes Spring Races.

Most Elegant Lady Kristy Moore at the 2024 Forbes Spring Races.

Penelope and Charlotte Crawford from Cargo in their pretty dresses for the Canola Cup family fun day on the October long weekend.

NATALIE HAYES AND CASEY WALKER FROM GRENFELL TRACKSIDE AT EUGOWRA’S CANOLA CUP.

Young attendees were all smiles in the shade of one of the tents.

Some younger fashionistas showed off some spring fashion at Young.

Burrangong Races was a day to enjoy a chat and a cold one with friends.

Plenty of beautiful dresses were spotted at Burrangong Picnic Races, some provided by Young’s very own Kirk & Co, a sponsor of the event.

Lady of the Day Sally Martin at the Burrangong Picnic Races.

Elizabeth Patterson from Griffith took out the title of Canola Cup Queen at Eugowra on the October long weekend.

Lisa Cummings, Jenny Laing and Glenda McIntosh from Cowra enjoying Eugowra’s Canola Cup.

Eliz the o on t

Spring Races

h on the Field d organisers Sheryn Davie and Mel West.

Jackie Murray was a very deserving winner of Best Millinery at Forbes Spring Races.

Grenfell Public School’s biannual fete a huge success

By TAMARA McMAHON

ON Friday, October 25, Grenfell Public School’s biannual fete brought families, friends, and the community together for an afternoon of fun.

Held under the school’s COLA, the event incorporated many activities and stalls organised by the Parents and Citizens Association (P&C) and school staff

The fete was packed with entertainment and excitement for all ages.

Families enjoyed a BBQ, the popular Stage 3 sponge throw and laminated family portraits that students had completed in their family groups at school. Kids had a blast with games like duck pick and hunted for treasures at the trash and treasure stall.

Novelty helium balloons, chocolate wheel, face painting, hair extensions and a lucky dip were busy all afternoon, while the ice cream stall and donuts were

popular choices for those craving a sweet treat.

The afternoon also featured competitions that tested skills and endurance, such as the hanging competition and basketball shootout, and a variety of stalls offering jewellery, temporary tattoos, and other fun accessories.

For music lovers, Miss Forfar hosted a disco in the library, complete with glow sticks.

Sandy designed a chalk mural of angel wings for children to pose in front of making for beautiful keepsake photos.

The rock band from The Henry Lawson High School entertained the crowd and the local ambulance service gave kids a special tour, letting them see firsthand how an ambulance operates in emergencies.

With so many attractions and an incredible community turnout, the fete was a huge success.

Walter poses in front of angel wings Sandy created.

Get those entries in for Christmas card competition

FEDERAL Member for Riverina Michael McCormack is reminding schools and students across the Riverina and Central West that his 2024 Christmas card design competition is closing soon.

“This year’s Christmas card design competition theme is “We Wish You a Riverina Christmas,” Mr McCormack said.

“The top three designs will be featured on my personal Christmas card, which will be sent to key stakeholders and parliamentary colleagues.” Schools have until Friday 8 November 2024 to submit their entries to Mr McCormack’s Wagga Wagga office.

“Last year’s competition was a huge success, with more than 1,700 entries from students in Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 who are eligible to enter,” Mr McCormack said.

“Unfortunately, this year will be the last opportunity for some schools to enter the competition, as schools in Bland, Forbes and Parkes Shires will no longer be in the Riverina electorate after the next election.

“I urge schools and students in these shires to make the fullest of this opportunity and create some remarkable designs to leave a lasting impression.

“I look forward to seeing the impressive creativity students of the Riverina and Central West are known to exhibit.”

Submissions from schools are requested to be enclosed and posted in a single package to Suite 2/11-15 Fitzmaurice Street, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650, or they can be scanned and emailed to michael. mccormack.mp@aph.gov. au

Community celebrates beginning of Taylor Park inclusive playspace project

■ From front page

“It’s really good to be here on behalf of the government to help turn the sod and to help mark the grant from the Crown Reserve Improvement Fund which was over $600,000,” Mr Lawrence said.

“[It’s] quite a big grant for that fund, which I think was recognition of the effort and time Council put in to the grant application, well done to the Council, but also recognition of how worthy this project is,” he said.

Community advocate Emily Essex is thrilled they are going to have the whole project completed in one go.

“I think have that staged approach was really good initially to make sure we had a future plan for the whole park, but knowing that it is all going to be completed in one hit is really good,” she said.

Ms Essex said she thinks people will be really excited to see the progress on the project and she thinks

Cr Best said they would like to thank Mr Lawrence for attending and the Crown Lands Department as is it a massive grant for our community.

the community might appreciate the expected fast pace of the project.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said this project is a long time coming and there has been a lot of advocacy by some really strong and committed people in this community.

Ms Cooke said the project was led at a local level by Emily and as the local member she has been on board to help bring this to Grenfell as they have Livvi’s playgrounds in other towns in the electorate.

“What really wanted to do together was to bring this to

Grenfell,” she said.

Ms Cooke said this wouldn’t have been possible without the input of Weddin Shire Council, who have been on board since the beginning.

Ms Cooke said this project has been funded with two separate parcels of funding, which means it can be all completed at the one time, rather than in stages like so many other projects.

Once the project is complete. Ms Cooke said Grenfell and the region will have a fantastic facility for all ages, stages and abilities for our young people.

Cruz and Carter White find their family portrait.

The first sod has been turned at the Taylor Park Inclusive Play space. PHOTO: Brendan McCool

Noah Kilby decides which ice-cream treat he would like to enjoy. PHOTOS: Supplied

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

4 What is a mark against a person for deficiency (7)

8 Thor was the ancient god of what (7)

9 Name an aromatic seed used in medicine, cookery, etc (7)

10 Who founded the settlement in New South Wales, Arthur ... (7)

11 To be standing upright, is to be standing in which manner (7)

12 Name the bush tucker made from flour and water (6)

14 What are growths of facial hair (6)

18 Which term implies that which is near or on the kidneys (7)

21 Which sea lies between PNG, Indonesia, and Australia (7)

22 What is a sailing vessel built and rigged for speed (7)

23 To raise to a higher degree, is to do what (7)

24 What are very small parts or quantities (7)

DOWN

1 What is a fixed or regular pay (7)

2 Who, with her husband, discovered radium in 1898, Marie ... (5)

3 To regard with blind adoration, is to do what (7)

4 Who deals in textiles and cloth goods (6)

5 Name a widely cultivated cereal plant (5)

6 To go in again, is to do what (7)

7 What is a drink made of spirits and hot water (5)

13 Which term broadly describes a communist (7)

15 What is a more common term for otalgia (7)

E-QUATIONS

Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining

Solve

16 Who are fierce, brutal persons (7)

17 What are sudden blazes of fire or light, used as signals (6)

18 Name a WA racecourse (5)

19 Kathmandu is the capital of which kingdom in southern Asia (5)

20 Who wrote “Auld Lang Syne”, Robbie ... (5)

Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.

1 CORELLA

(a) A long-billed cockatoo

(b) A cotton stuff made to resemble velvet

(c) The membrane that forms the front covering of the eye

2 DESICCATE

(a) To earnestly desire

(b) To preserve by drying

(c) To divert from a sacred purpose

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:

Attempt (3)

Awful (3)

French cap (5)

Gem from oyster (5) Of the breast (7)

Personal journal (5)

Send money (5) Tap lightly (3) Until (poet) (3) Woman who serves drinks (7)

Central West

Wrangler takes the reins takes the reins in Jeep round-up in

JEEP WRANGLER: The latest Wrangler continues championing the Jeep way with a reworked black textured seven-slot grille with dark slots, metallic bezels, and bodymatched surround, boosting cooling for better performance.

By DEREK OGDEN, Marque Motoring

NOTHING could be more Jeep than the Wrangler.

Introduced in 1986, the midsize SUV has been central to the maker’s brand identity since World War II when it was produced by Willys.

Progressing through the CJ (Civilian Jeeps) to this day they use a separate body and frame, rigid live axles, a tapering nose design with flared fenders, a foldflat windscreen and can be driven without doors.

Also, with a few exceptions, they have part-time four-wheel drive systems, with high and low gearing, and standard open bodies with removable hard or soft tops.

The Wrangler was redesigned to meet safety standards and make it more comfortable on-road by upgrading the suspension, drivetrain, and interior, compared to the CJ.

The suspension on all Wranglers included trackbars and antiroll bars, and, from the 1997 TJ onwards, front and rear coil springs instead of leaf springs.

For the 2024 Wrangler, the Pentastar V6 engine has been retired in favour of a turbocharged four-cylinder motor, developing 200kW of peak power and 400Nm of torque with fuel effi ciency gains and unchanged towing capacity at 2495 kg for a braked trailer.

The MY24 Wrangler comes in four variants, all cheaper and with more equipment than the models they replace – the Sport S four-door, which replaces the Night Eagle 4dr, Overland 4dr and Rubicon 2dr and 4dr.

Prices start at $75,950 for the entry-level Sport S and top out at $90,450 for the Rubicon 4dr.

All are before on-road costs and dealer delivery charges.

The Wrangler range is covered by Jeep’s five-year unlimited kilometres warranty, plus five years roadside assistance.

STYLING

The latest Wrangler continues championing the Jeep way with a reworked black textured seven-slot grille with dark slots, metallic bezels, and body-matched surround, boosting cooling for better performance.

Badging relates to the Jeep Trail Rated tradition, leaving no doubt as to the model and what it is good at.

The antenna is integrated into the ‘Gorilla Glass’ windscreen protecting it from brushes with low hanging flora.

Eighteen-inch alloy wheels come in a range of modern designs, with the spare clinging to the rear barn door under a soft cover.

INTERIOR

The interior space on offer is close to what you’d get in a medium-sized SUV.

Overland and Rubicon models now boast McKinley leather seats with 12-way power up front and four-way lumbar support, as well as a hard seat back panel.

Heritage inspired surroundings feature soft-touch furnishings with contrasting stitching.

Updates include a reworked instrument cluster and panel bolster bezels. A rail on top of the dash acts as a mount for devices such as smartphones and cameras.

A cramped footwell is home to a solid footbrake pedal leaving next to no space for the driver’s left foot, a nod to the wagon’s lefthand drive origins.

The handbrake also lines up on the left of the transmission tunnel.

The optional one-touch top opens up the somewhat sombre cabin surroundings, letting in light and air.

Grab the tool kit and really free up the interior, removing roof, doors, windscreen and almost anything that’s not ‘tied down’.

The boot will take 898 litres of cargo with the rear seat backs up and 2050 litres to the roof line with the backs folded.

A rear seat reminder checks for kids or other stuff in danger of being left behind when leaving the vehicle.

ENGINE/TRANSMISSION

The Wrangler is powered by a 2-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine pumping out 200kW of power and 400Nm of torque. Left behind is the V6 Pentastar motor.

On Overland, the new unit is mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Jeep’s Selec-Trac 4×4 system.

SAFETY

All models now include first and second-row curtain airbags as well as the standard front and side seat-

mounted airbags already fitted. Active safety includes autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop function, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear-view camera and front and rear parking sensors.

DRIVING

Jeep claims combined urban / highway cycle fuel consumption of 9.2 litres per 100 kilometres for the Sport S and Overland, and 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres for the Rubicons, down from 9.7L/100km and 10.3L/100km of the V6. The test Overland recorded 15.6 and 7 litres per 100 kilometres, respectively, on recommended 95 RON premium petrol.

The Wrangler incorporates lightweight, high strength aluminium body-on-frame design with a five-link front and rear suspension, which features upper and lower high-strength steel control arms, full-width highstrength steel track bars and tuned shocks for a balanced on- and offroad performance.

On test, on the bitumen there was tyre noise from the rugged Bridgestone Duellers.

The Wrangler lives up to its Trail rating on the Rubicon in the Sierra Nevada, the Overland’s Selec-Trac 4 4 System providing automatic swapping of two- and four-wheel drive, Dana solid front and rear axles, two-speed transfer case, traction control and four skid plates.

This provides part-time low and high range, and high range and high range full-time automatic 2WD and 4WD switches according to driving conditions.

The TrailCam cuts out blind spots during off-road navigation and boosts power delivery on angled bends.

Perched atop the grille the camera lens stays free from debris and automatic washing ensures clear visibility.

SUMMARY

Something old, something new: the Wrangler remains tall in the saddle of the Jeep pantheon.

RATINGS

Looks: 8/10

Performance: 7/10

Safety: 6/10

Thirst:7/10

Practicality: 8/10

Comfort: 6/10

Tech: 8/10

Value 6/10

Hunt heads her first international goal for win

Clare Hunt has helped secure Australia’s first win over Germany in 19 years with a goal via a header in the 77th minute of the game.

Hosted in Germany on Monday, October 28 - early morning on Tuesday October 29, AEDT - the match was the second time the CommBank Matildas have defeated the German side, and the first since 2005.

Clare scored the goal off a corner by

Steph Catley, giving Clare her first international goal.

She said in an interview published on the Commbank Matilda’s website that it felt good to get the win and was proud of everyone.

Of her goal, Clare said she just went up for a set piece, but Germany weren’t marking as tightly on that corner.

“Then I just had an opportunity at the

back post. I’m glad I took it,” she said.

On a defensive note, Clare said they were tighter than usual and played around with a few formations, which she thinks helped them secure the win.

After a disappointing Olympics campaign, a win of this magnitude feels good. Clare said this win shows that the team can come back and show everyone what they’re made of.

Over 35’s strong display in Cowra Cup

Over the last weekend of October, the Grenfell Soccer Club’s Over 35 team travelled to Cowra to compete in the Cowra Country Cup

On the Saturday, the Grenfell squad played three game, culminating in a 3-0 win against in Young in the quarter final.

On the Sunday, they faced off against Eglington in a close match within the semi finals, with a score of 3-2.

Grenfell Soccer Club’s Amber Dewar said the Cowra Cup is a once a year event, with teams coming from across from NSW including Eglington, Bargo, Dubbo, Blue Mountains, Albury, the Riverina and this year a combined team from Cowra and Huskisson.

Ms Dewar said it was a team effort with Jarrod Draffin to getting the team organised for the competition.

The Cowra Cup is open to mixed teams, with the only stipulation being players are over 35.

This year, Hilltops won the Cup 1-0 over Albury. The plate was won by Eglinton over Dubbo Newtown.

Games are shorter than regular winter competition matches, with 20 minute halves.

The Cowra Cup is one of three

over 35s tournaments played each year - which includes Wagga, Huskisson and Cowra.

This was the second year the Grenfell squad have played in the Cowra Cup, with the team being knocked out on the first game on the second day, though players jumped in to help other teams make up numbers.

The Grenfell Over 35’s squad competed in the Wagga comp for the first time last year, winning the Plate, but were knocked out

in the semi finals of the Wagga Cup this year.

The Wagga Cup is primarily played in March, and Ms Dewar said they intend to go back to contest it again next year.

Ms Dewar said they predominately play in the Wagga and Cowra Cups.

While a good proportion of the squad’s players have previously played in the local winter soccer competitio, Ms Dewar said many of the players only

Woodbridge’s costly loss to Goannas ahead of semi-final

A costly loss against Goannas last weekend means Woodbridge women’s rugby league side will now meet competition heavyweights Panorama in this weekend’s competition semi finals.

Going into the match Woodbridge and Goannas were equal on eight competition with both sides recording three wins and enjoying one bye during the competition’s regular season.

In Saturday’s match at Cale Oval in Narromine Woodbridge had no answer for the Goanna attack with five-eight Rebecca Smyth controlling the match and helping herself to three tries in her side’s six tries to two 30-8 win.

The loss saw Woodbridge finish fourth at the end of the regular season behind Panorama, Vipers and Goannas.

Panorama and Vipers finished with 12 points each, both sides losing just the single game but Panorama taking the minor premiership courtesy of a far superior points differential.

The Woodbridge under 12s will join the open’s side in this weekend’s semi finals after finishing the regular season in third place after playing out a 32 all draw against Goannas. Both sides scored seven tries each with the draw meaning Woodbridge avoided competition front runners Lachlan in the first weekend of the semi finals.

Try scorers for the under 12s were Billie Nelligan 2, Taylor Tarrant 2, Hunter Taylor, Poppy Douglas and Layla Cook.

Woodbridge under 14s had no answer for the Goanna attack with Jannarah Walford her side’s only try scorer in their 50-6 loss. Dimity Rogers and Amber Taylor were the try scorers for the under 16s as they went down 38-10 to Goannas and a depleted under 18s were kept scoreless 44-0 to finish their season.

Connie Greig a winner around the region’s tracks

The win by Mrs Bull at Dubbo on Saturday gave local trainer Connie Greig winners at five different venues in the space of 12 days. Clever Cookie won at Orange followed by Real Salty (Harden), Nevada Showgirl (Mudgee) and I’m Scarlett (Quirindi) before Mrs Bull after a solitary win and 18 placings from 32 starts broke through to win at Dubbo.

Taking prizemoney earnings to over $110,000, Mrs Bull (Mikayla Weir, $4.80 favourite) tackled the leader Slush Fund (Chelsea Hillier, $5.50) in the straight and after a stirring battle won by a half head with Ms Reeves (Siena Grima, $7.50) almost three lengths away third in the 1300 metres Southlakes Estate Benchmark 58 Handicap.

Enjoying the Spring racing atmosphere, thousands were trackside to see an all Dubbo finish in the opening event, the 2200 metres MAAS Group Holdings Western Eagle Benchmark 58 Handicap.

Trained by Dar Lunn, Hot Gospel (Adrian Layt, $5) reached the lead then lasted to beat the Garry Lunn trained Raiding (Siena Grima, $4.40) by a half head with a half length to Nevada Showgirl (Andrew Banks, $6) from the Connie Greig stable.

Garry Lunn later won the 1600 metres A1 Earthwork & Comet Equipment Class 1 & Maiden Plate with Ain’t She Swell owned by Peter Harrow and partners.

compete in the Cowra and Wagga ups now.

Ms Dewar said these competitions are a weekend where they can all get behind and commit to, and have turned into a real family weekend, with many family members coming along to cheer on the team.

Ms Dewar said they have ben very fortunate as everyomne loves the game and they go in with the right attitude and good people behind them.

Amongst the tailenders in the big field, Ain’t She Swell (Siena Grima, $4.60) produced a powerful finish to win by a half neck from Autumn Song (Clayton Gallagher, $3.50 favourite) and Star Intrigue (Kody Nestor, $4.20).

Local trainer Michael Mulholland followed his second with Autumn Song with a good win by Jet Empress in the 1000 metres Macquarie Geotechnical Benchmark 66 Handicap.

COMING UP: Warren has been very active promoting the big Cotton Cup meeting with the logo “Frock Up, Suit Up and Show Up to the Randwick Of The West“ and has organised a host of attractions for Sunday.

United States’ Sophia Smith and Australia’s Clare Hunt, left, vie for the ball during a women’s Group B soccer match between Australia and the United States, at the Marseille Stadium, at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Wednesday, July 31, 2024, in Marseille, France.

PHOTO: AP Photo/Daniel Cole

The Grenfell Soccer Club’s Over 35’s squad made it to the semi finals in the Cowra Country Cup.

PHOTO: Grenfell Soccer Club’s Facebook page

Top results in Wellington

Four Grenfell Ladies Virginia, Jan, Leanne and Sandra travelled to Wellington on Thursday, October 24 to play in their tournament.

The weather was perfect and the course was great, and all had a good day. Virginia Drogemuller won the A Grade Stableford.

Wednesday, October 30 was the last of our 18 hole competition for this year.

Seven ladies came to play a Stableford, and we welcomed Virginia Newman from Moranbah Queensland who joined us for a game. A great afternoon of golf was enjoyed by all.

A Grade winner was Virginia Drogemuller with 34 points. B Grade winner was Leanne Young with 35 points C Grade winner was Phillipa Baker with 32 points.

Birdies Sandra Matthews on 3rd, Virginia Drogemuller on 10th. Gobbles Maria Neill on 14th, Sandra Matthews on 3rd and Virginia Drogemuller on 10th

Previous weeks results:

A Stableford was played on October 23 A Grade winner

was Virginia Drogemuller with 29 points. B Grade winner was Maria Neill with 36 points. Runner up Leanne Young with 31 points.

C grade winner was Sandra Matthews with 18 points

Their were no birdies, or nearest the pin but Virginia had a gobble on 15th.

Sunday, October 27 a stableford was played A Grade winner was Megan Starr with 32 points.

Runner up Virginia Drogemuller with 31 points.

B Grade winner was Maria Neill with 43 points.

C Grade winner was Sandra Matthews with 30 points

Runner up was Belinda Day with 15 points

Birdies to Virginia Drogemuller on 9th. Maria Neill on 9th. Nearest the pin Maria Neill

And after that great round Maria broke her handicap and lost a few shots.

During the month of November ladies are playing a nine hole competition for the Grenfell Commodities Trophy.

The three best nett scores over the month will determine the winner.

Sandra Matthews, Virginia Drogemuller, Marie Neill, Sally Mitton, Phillipa Baker, Virginia Newman and Leanne Young played over 18 holes. PHOTO: Supplied