St Joseph’s dive in to 2025
Epic trek returns
Get your walking shoes on for Cargo 2 Grenfell fundraising walk which returns in March
By BRENDAN MCCOOL
Get your walking shoes on for Cargo to Grenfell (C2G) fundraising walk, which is set to return to the region next month from March 13 to 15, 2025.
The three day, 96km walk aims to promote awareness of and raise funds for mental health.
As of Thurday February 13, 25 keen walkers have signed up to take part in the annual event and had raised over $3000 for mental health support in the Central West region.
Walk organiser Toby Barrons said in the month leading up to the event they usually see an uptick in registrations, but he is encouraging more people to sign up to take part, whether that is for one day, two days or the whole three days.
“We’re trying to encourage people that way because it is a pretty daunting sell when people think they are signing up for a three day walk,” he said.
“People can do any one, any two or all three days.”
Money raised by the walk will go to Headstrong Foundation which provides mental health resources, workshops, community projects and training in mental health rst aid in regional communities.
Mr Barrons said the money raised by the Cargo to Grenfell walk will stay in the region.
The Cargo 2 Grenfell Walk has had great reception from the towns the walk goes through, Mr Barrons said, whether it is from the community members, local services and community groups.
■ Continued page 3
Nominate for NSW Seniors Festival Local Achievement Awards
MEMBER for Cootamundra
Steph Cooke is calling for people to recognise an outstanding older person in their community with nominations for the 2025 NSW Seniors Festival Local Achievement Awards now open.
“The 2025 Seniors Festival and the Local Achievement Awards celebrate the tremendous contribution seniors o er to our communities,” Ms Cooke said.
“If you know a senior who strives to make our community a better place through volunteering, innovation, or simply sup-
porting family and friends, now is the time to nominate them for the Local Achievement Awards,”
“We are indeed fortunate to have so many seniors in our local community who are generous with their time, energy and commitment.
“By highlighting seniors’ continued e orts in helping the seat of small communities thrive, we are continuing to challenge ageism and empower seniors to overcome social stigma,” she said.
Nominations are now open
for the awards program, one of many initiatives the NSW Government promotes to support the state’s seniors living happy, healthy, and active lives.
Winners of the Local Achievement Awards will be announced during the 2025 NSW Seniors Festival which runs from 3-16 March.
The awards program is part of an exciting schedule of events across the state.
For more information about NSW Seniors Festival and the Local Achievement Awards, visit seniorsfestival.nsw.gov.au.
WORK WITH US ON AFFORDABLE HOUSING: COUNCILS
THE peak body for local government in New South Wales is advocating for actions to increase the supply of a ordable housing for more people, including essential workers.
Local Government NSW (LGNSW) President and Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM addressed the NSW Parliamentary inquiry on options for essential worker housing.
“Essential workers are fundamental to maintaining well-functioning, prosperous local communities and economies,” Mayor Miller said.
“These key workers need to be able to live in the communities they serve, and the planning system should play its part in facilitating that outcome.
“Firstly, the planning system could deliver much needed a ordable rental housing in perpetuity in well-located areas through the NSW Government’s framework for a ordable housing contribution schemes.
“But councils have told us that developing and getting these schemes approved is a challenging and lengthy process.
“Secondly, when the NSW Government is implementing widespread upzoning through its major planning changes it’s critical to have mechanisms in place to capture some of this development upli for a ordable housing.”
Forbes is one of the areas where collaboration between governments has already seen
GRENFELL’S Combined Pensioners & Superannuants (CPSA) are calling for more members of the Weddin community to join the Grenfell Branch. The CPSA is a nonprofit, non-par-
expands to plug gaps in system
, rural and remote deployment program for key health care roles has been slated for expansion, to plug critical gaps in the NSW Health system across the state.
The NSW Health Deployment Program was first established in May 2023 to create a pipeline of skilled health professionals for short-term roles, recruiting nurses, midwives and allied health professionals to be posted to short term placements across NSW
The short-term positions of between two and 13 weeks offer healthcare professionals the opportunity to travel and work in regional, rural and remote parts of NSW they may never have visited, with accommodation and travel costs covered.
www.grenfellrecord.com.au
Crown Land opened up for housing in north Forbes.
A State Government development under way west of Farnell Street - toward Morton Street - will provide homes for key workers as well as social and a ordable homes.
Homes NSW says construction of the 130-property mixed tenure development is on track to begin mid year.
Once complete, it is expected to deliver 40 social and a ordable homes, including homes for key workers, along with 92 private dwellings.
Mayor Miller also said that while welcome, regional councils had additional concerns about the impact of major infrastructure projects, such as new regional hospitals, road upgrades, and renewable energy developments.
“Without adequate housing and services, the in ux of workers for these projects places additional strain on existing essential workers, exacerbating the housing crisis, disadvantaging other vulnerable households and again forcing councils to bear the brunt of providing housing to essential workers like doctors and police,”
Mayor Miller said.
“LGNSW urges the NSW Government to work closely with councils to address these issues in a way that balances the needs of essential workers, vulnerable communities, and the broader housing system.”
The inquiry is due to report back to Parliament by 16 June 2025.
ty-political membership association which serves pensioners of all ages, superannuants and low-income retirees.
CPSA is well informed of the
A view of the site selected for a Homes NSW housing development that will see key worker and a ordable housing in north Forbes.
call for new members
needs, aspirations and concerns of its members and constituents.
The Grenfell branch of the PSA meets monthly in the Melyra Street meeting rooms.
JOURNALISTS
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cgambrill@midwestmedia.com.au
Their next meeting will be on April 9 at 11am. All are welcome.
For more information contact the Grenfell branch president Margaret Cuddihy on 63 431 237.
The NSW Government is currently seeking healthcare workers from more than 20 professions including nurses, midwives and allied health professionals for a range of shortterm positions in hospitals and health facilities across NSW.
The program has seen 90 staff undertake hundreds of deployments across the state in priority roles such as nursing, midwifery, occupational therapy, podiatry, speech pathology and physiotherapy.
NSW Health will now increase the team to around 400 to further strengthen its support to regional, rural and remote areas
Healthcare workers seeking a role with NSW Health, or current staff, are encouraged to register their interest via the NSW Health website.
Regional Health Minister Ryan Park said the expansion was a fantastic opportunity for health care staff and communities.
“Recruitment and retention of healthcare staff in rural, regional and remote hospitals is one of our biggest, if not the biggest issue we face,” he said.
“This innovative program is not only attracting health workers to regional, rural and remote communities but also strengthening these areas by maintaining essential health services.
“These deployments give health workers the chance to explore and immerse themselves in new communities, and pleasingly I’ve heard stories of many health professionals who have found the experience so rewarding they’ve chosen to stay, providing lasting benefits for patients, the community, and the health system,” Mr Park said.
NSW Health Deployment Program participant, Speech Pathologist Saffron Foy said she was nervous at first about moving far from home, but found herself quickly welcomed into a new community.
“I joined the NSW Health Deployment program because I wanted a bit of a change and I loved the experience of working in unique and supportive rural communities,” she said.
“I really recommend giving it a go and experiencing something new because it lets you experience a different lifestyle and allows you to improve and expand your skills,” Ms Foy said.
PHOTO: Homes NSW
Steph Cooke is calling for people to recognise an outstanding older person within the community.
PHOTO: Supplied
LOCAL GOVERNMENT NSW PRESIDENT PHYLLIS MILLER OAM.
Get ready to step into Cargo to Grenfell walk
■ From page 1
This year has seen a pretty high number of people volunteering to help throughout the walk, Mr Barrons said, which is always good.
On the rst day of the trek, participants will walk the 23km from Cargo to Canowindra where they rest up for the night before continuing on to Gooloogong, a distance of 28km, on day two.
A er the night in Gooloogong where a fundraising trivia night is held at the Gooloogong Hotel, walkers trek 44km to Grenfell on day three.
Mr Barrons said there is plenty of support throughout the event, and one of the reasons why they o er the option to take part in one or two days is so no one has to nish the whole walk if they don’t want to,
“People take it on as a challenge to nish, some people just want to be a part of it, be involved and meet new people.”
Mr Barrons sad the Cargo to Grenfell Walk caters for most people and most needs, whether people are raising money for mental health, or just to do it as a challenge or be out in the sun for a day.
Caragabal Public School dives into term one
Caragabal Public School has welcomed students back for another year of learning. and has sent out their week two and three newsletter on Monday February 17.
Welcome Back to School
This term brings exciting opportunities to learn, grow, and challenge yourselves.
We are excited to welcome our new K-2 teacher, Mr Yianni Petrou, to the school community.
Mr. Petrou brings a wealth of knowledge, enthusiasm, and fresh perspectives to the classroom.
With his passion for teaching and dedication to helping students succeed, we are con dent he will make a positive impact on everyone he works with.
His engaging teaching style and approachable attitude are sure to inspire and motivate students, creating a dynamic learning environment.
We look forward to the exciting lessons and experiences that lie ahead with Mr. Petrou this term.
We’re always on the lookout for news.
Contact Rebecca on 0436 000 660 or rhewson@midwestmedia.com.au
A message from Mr Petrou
Hello everyone, it has been a busy and exciting week starting o the school year in K-2. I am relatively new to teaching, graduating at the end of
I was born in Sydney and have resided there for the majority of my life. My interest in working, and possibly living rurally, is what pushed me to this region of NSW at the earliest opportunity.
Last year I worked around the West Wyalong and Condobolin areas, so although Caragabal is a new place to me, I have spent a bit of time in some surrounding towns. I’ve already met some of you, and look forward to meeting the rest of the Caragabal community and making a positive contribution to the passionate students that makeup this school.
Year 6 Report from Nic and Eddie Everyone had a great holiday and we are all excited to be back at school for another year.
For the rst few days back at school we have been completing our start of year assessments and getting back into routine of being in the classroom.
We are looking forward to the next Year 6 report.
PHOTOS: Supplied
Jam-packed week for St Joseph’s Primary School
Contributed SWIMMING CARNIVAL SUCCESS
St Joseph’s Primary School held their annual Swimming Carnival recently at the Grenfell Aquatic Centre and it was a resounding success!.
The carnival brought together students, teachers, and families for a day lled with excitement and camaraderie. Every student participated, showcasing their swimming skills and enthusiasm in a variety of races and activities.
The atmosphere was electric, with cheers and encouragement echoing around the pool.
From the youngest swimmers to the most experienced, everyone had the opportunity to compete and have fun.
The day was not just about com-
petition; it was about teamwork, sportsmanship, and celebrating each student’s e orts.
With sunny weather and a festive spirit, the Swimming Carnival was a memorable event that highlighted the importance of participation and community. Everyone le with smiles, proud of their achievements.
YEAR ONE SCIENCE FUN
The St Joseph’s Primary School Year One students have been learning about the properties of di erent materials and how they can be physically changed. They recently investigated things that bend. They completed the lesson by making bendy caterpillars.
The class then collaborated to make a diorama to house their creations.
Students learned about the properties of di erent things, including items that can bend. They then made a diorama to house their bendy caterpillars during their science class.
Maya, Destiny, Thomas, Arlo, Darcy, Ian and Willa were learning about the properties of di erent materials.
St Joseph’s swimmers were showcasing their skills in the races at the school’s annual swiming carnival.
The atmosphere was electric, with cheers and encouragement echoing around the pool.
Students were cheering on their friends across a range of races and activities.
Jed, Harry, Callum, Frankie, Charlie, Harry, Jack, Adam picked up some great results at the swimming carnival.
St Joseph’s Primary School students were ready to dive into the pool and begin racing.
Pictured le : Jack, Gus, and Harry were having a great day at St Joseph’s Primary School swimming carnival.
Students showcased their swimming talents at St Joseph Primary School’s Swimming Carnival.
DATES TO NOTE
WEDDIN SHIRE COUNCIL
CAMP STREET, GRENFELL NSW 2810 PHONE: 6343 1212
Thursday 20 February 2025 - 5:00pm | Ordinary Council Meeting
Wednesday 26 February 2025 - Recycling Collection | Villages
Friday 28 February 2025 - Recycling Collection | East
Friday 28 February 2025 - Street Stall | Royal Far West
Saturday 1 March 2025 - Street Stall | Grenfell Men’s Shed
Monday 3 March 2025 - Recycling Collection | West
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 bluegreen 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. Blue-green 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. Blue-green 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 NOTICE | SERVICE NSW CUSTOMER CARE SPECIALIST
The Service NSW Customer Care Specialist will be attending the Grenfell Service NSW Agency, today, Thursday 20 February 2025 between 10:00am to 2:30pm. They are here to assist with Cost of Living rebates and vouchers.
SERVICE NOTICE | GRENFELL AQUATIC CENTRE
The Grenfell Aquatic Centre will be closed to the public for School Swimming Carnivals on the following dates:
Wednesday 26 February 2025 10:00am – 3:00pm Primary District Carnival Sunday 2 March 2025 From 4:00pm Business House Relays
SERVICE NOTICE | GRENFELL PUBLIC LIBRARY
Council would like to advise that due to unforeseen circumstances the Grenfell Public Library will be operating on reduced hours. The Grenfell Public Library opening hours will be as follows:
Tuesday – Friday: 10:30AM – 12:30PM & 1:30PM – 4:50PM Saturday: 9:30AM – 12:00PM
Sunday and Monday: Closed Council apologises for any inconvenience.
REQUEST FOR TENDER
Council wishes to advise that a request for tender has been issued for the following:
• RFT 43/2024 | Repair of Hail Damaged Weddin Shire Council Buildings - Scope of Works 02 | Closes 5:00pm 27 February 2025. Further information can be obtained from Council’s website https://www.weddin.nsw.gov.au/Council/ Tenders-Quotations-and-Expressions-of-Interest or through Vendorpanel: https://www.vendorpanel.com.au/PublicTenders. aspx?profileGroupId=7126
REQUEST FOR QUOTE
Council wishes to advise that the following Request for Quotes (RFQ’s) have been issued:
• RFQ 02/2025 | Fencing Installation for Taylor Park Closes 5:00pm Thursday 6 March 2025
• RFQ 48/2024 | Taylor Park – Handrails to Concrete Ramps and Stairs, and Metalwork for Taylor Park Redevelopment Closes 5:00pm Thursday 6 March 2025.
Further information regarding the above RFQ’s is available from Council’s website: https://www.weddin.nsw.gov.au/Council/ Tenders-Quotations-and-Expressions-of-Interest
COUNCIL | POSITION VACANT | READVERTISED
CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SERVICES NSW OFFICER
Council is seeking applications from suitably qualified and/ or experienced staff to meet Council’s operational plan requirements for the following position:
• Customer Service & Services NSW Officer
Indicative grade is Band 1 Level 3 Grade 5.
Applications close 4:00pm Friday 21 February 2025 to mail@weddin.nsw.gov.au
Further information can be found at: https://www.weddin.nsw. gov.au/Council/About-Our-Organisation/Employment
FROM THE MAYOR’S DESK
I would like to thank our community for participating in the Community Strategic Plan workshops held over the past two weeks, we held the last two in Grenfell earlier this week. It is great to hear your ideas for growth and we now have a lot of input to workshop through, to develop the draft plan. Our community will be provided further opportunities in coming months to provide feedback on the draft; details will be provided in due course. Thank you for attending and providing your voice on where you want our Shire to be in 2035.
Over the past week or so, the schools have held their annual swimming carnivals, it is great to see the kids enjoying themselves,
congratulations to all participants.
The Country Mayors Association (CMA) of NSW issued a media release last week regarding the insufficient funding from the Australian Government. The CMA are advocating to seek restoration of Government Funding. CMA Deputy Chairman Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick said insufficient funding from the Australian Government hits country communities in the hip pocket. “The inadequate FAGs situation creates large rate rises across rural and regional NSW Local Government Areas during a cost-of-living crisis, as Councils struggle to remain financially sustainable. While country Councils know their communities are doing it tough, their operating costs have also risen much faster than their revenue over consecutive years. Special Rate Variations harm the relationship we have with our ratepayers but they have become a necessity in NSW,” he said. “Grants are over 70 per cent of the revenue of some rural NSW Councils. Their rate base is stagnant. So, even rate hikes cannot help them much.” Country-based Councils in NSW face unique cost pressures, with many Local Government Areas being the size of small European countries and being responsible for close to 1,500kms of roads. Mayor Firman explained that Councils are required to deliver public services like administration, recreational facilities, pools, libraries and waste facilities in multiple locations in order to ensure equity of access, which increases the cost of Council operations. The CMA continue to advocate for all of us and I support their advocacy on this matter. Separately, a federal parliamentary committee inquiry (Regional Development, Infrastructure and Transport) has undertaken extensive consultation with stakeholders including local governments, councils and shires. The inquiry received over 280 submissions and held 16 public hearings in regional areas. Submissions to this inquiry were predominately received from LGAs with the common theme being how local government roles have evolved significantly from administering roads, rates and rubbish to navigating complex regulatory environments, managing limited financial resources, and addressing diverse and sometimes competing community needs and expectations.
Chair of the Committee, Mr Luke Gosling OAM, MP, said ‘local governments around Australia are increasingly being called upon to provide healthcare services and housing, manage ageing infrastructure and assets, and respond to current and future climate adaptation needs. These additional responsibilities are placing a significant financial strain on local governments who are struggling to meet community expectations.’
The interim report makes no formal policy recommendations to government but highlights these emerging themes and that for local government Councils we are continually having to do more with less.
Paul Best MAYOR
Mayor Paul Best Councillor Wezley Makin
Councillor Michael Neill
Councillor Jan Parlett
Deputy Mayor Colleen Gorman
Councillor Jeanne Montgomery
Councillor John Niven
Councillor Simon Rolls
Councillor Chad White
6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Death In Paradise. 1.30 Optics. 2.00 Mozart: Rise Of A Genius. 2.55 Extraordinary Escapes. 3.45 The Role Of A Lifetime. 4.30 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. 5.30 Landline. 6.00 Australian Story. 6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Death In Paradise. 8.30 Vera. 10.05 The Newsreader. 10.55 Unforgotten. 11.45 Rage.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Better Homes. 3.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 5.00 Horse Racing. Silver Slipper Stakes Day and Caulfield Blue Diamond. 6.00 Dog Patrol. 6.30 Bondi Vet. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 10.30 I Escaped To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.15 ER. 3.00
6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 Angel.
(2022) 11.25 Late Programs. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: The 13th Summer. (2022) 2.00 Pointless. 3.00 Tipping Point. 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. 5.30 WIN News. 6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 David Attenborough’s Mammals. 8.40 MOVIE: The Hitman’s Bodyguard. (2017) Ryan Reynolds, Samuel L Jackson, Gary Oldman. 11.05 MOVIE: No Sudden Move. (2021) 1.00 Getaway. 1.30 Late Programs.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Silver Slipper Stakes Day and Caulfield Blue Diamond. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Sydney Weekender. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 1. Sydney 500. Day 1. Pre-race and race. 9.15 MOVIE: The Bourne Ultimatum. (2007) Matt Damon, Julia Stiles, David Strathairn. 11.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 National Drag Racing C’ship. Top Doorslammer. 4.00 Counting Cars. 4.30 Supercars C’ship. Sydney 500. Qualifying and support races. 6.30 Supercars C’ship. Sydney 500. Pre-race and race. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 MOVIE: Taken 3. (2014) 9.45 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 10.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 My Way. 1.00 Let’s Eat With George. 1.30 Your Next Cruise. 2.10 MOVIE: City Slickers. (1991) 4.30 Explore TV. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Space Invaders. 8.30 MOVIE: A Star Is Born. (2018) Lady Gaga, Bradley Cooper, Sam Elliott. 11.15 My Life As A Rolling Stone. 12.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Get Clever. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 The Goldbergs. 11.30 Dream Home. 1.10 Holey Moley Australia. 2.45 Britain’s Got Talent. 4.50 Jabba’s Movies. 5.20 MOVIE: Blue Crush. (2002) 7.30 MOVIE: Back To The Future Part II. (1989) 9.45 MOVIE: Basic Instinct. (1992) 12.25 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 12.30 Farm To Fork. 1.00 10 Minute Kitchen. Return. 1.30 Frugal Foodie. 2.00 4x4 Adventures. 3.00 What’s Up Down Under. 3.30 Roads Less Travelled. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 Good Chef
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 MOVIE: The Man Who Loved Redheads. (1955) 4.00 MOVIE: Birdman Of Alcatraz. (1962) 7.00 Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. Round 2. ACT Brumbies v Western Force. 9.30 Super Rugby Pacific Post-Match. 9.45 MOVIE: Operation Finale. (2018) 12.15 Late Programs.
The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Cities Of The Underworld. 3.30 Steam Train Journeys. 4.30 I Escaped To The Country. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Rosemary & Thyme. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 Extreme Railways. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Hook, Line And Sinker. 1.30 Tackling Australia. 2.00 Merv Hughes Fishing. 2.30 Al McGlashan’s Fish’n With Mates. 3.00 Fishing Addiction. 4.00 Motor MythBusters. 5.00 Hustle & Tow. 6.00 Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: Die Hard 2. (1990) 11.00 MOVIE: Mercury Rising. (1998) 1.20 Late Programs. 6.00 Hello SA. 6.30 A Current Affair. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Surfing Australia TV. 10.30 For The Love Of Pets. 11.30 World’s Greatest Myths And Mysteries. 12.40 To Be Advised. 1.40 Space Invaders. 2.40 MOVIE: Me Before You. (2016) 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 RBT. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Married At First Sight. 8.30 60 Minutes. 9.30 9News Late. 10.00 See No Evil. 11.00 The First 48. 11.50 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 9.00 Turning Point. 9.30 TV Shop. 10.00 Getaway. 10.40 Skippy. 11.10 Edgar Wallace Mysteries. 12.30 MOVIE: Rich And Strange. (1931) 2.15 MOVIE: The Scarlet Blade. (1963) 4.00 MOVIE: The Bridge At Remagen. (1969) 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: Rambo 3. (1988) 10.30 The Closer. 11.30 Late Programs. 6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Get Clever. 10.00 Holey Moley Australia. 11.30 Dream Home. 1.10 Home And Away. 4.10 TBA. 6.00 The Goldbergs. 6.30 Puppy School. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. 10.30 Bones. 12.30 The Blacklist. 1.30 Ordinary Joe. 2.30
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Having second thoughts could be a good thing, even if you’re determined to go through with your plans. You might find it worthwhile to take a fresh look at how things have been set up.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Financial matters could continue to be a problem until you’re able to straighten out some of the more pesky situations. Once this happens, the rest should be easier to unsnarl.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Family matters once again take center stage and should be dealt with competently and quickly. Again, insist that others take on their fair share of the responsibilities.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Your creative pursuits seem to be running into a roadblock. But rather than blame outside factors, look within to see if you might be holding back your efforts for some reason.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) Keep your keen Cat’s Eye focused on relevant aspects of this new situation in your life. Don’t be distracted by trivial matters. You need the pertinent facts before making a decision.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) As much as you prefer doing things on your own, continue to accept help if you still need to resolve the problem that affects your project. Meanwhile, some cheerful news is about to come your way!
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) While you might begrudge the added time it will take to get your project from point A to B to C, etc., you could benefit from the facts that will emerge over this expanded time span.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Regarding your workplace suggestions, be prepared to produce the facts to counter reactions from skeptics who feel like your approach is unreasonable or even impossible.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Savvy Sagittarians will look for work-related answers on their own rather than relying on unproved assumptions. It might take more time to do so, but the payoff is worth it.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Your aspects continue to favor family issues, with a special emphasis this week on changes in and around your home. Get everyone to suggest what they would like to see done.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) A matter you thought had been settled still might produce surprises. Best advice: Continue to gather facts to bolster your position just in case you need to produce them quickly.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) While your instincts are usually right when discerning ’twixt truth and deception, you could benefit from doing more research on the new “prospect” that you’ve been pitched.
Barbara Baikie OAM is running for Riverina
Why would mature-age Wallaroo woman Barbara Baikie OAM put herself forward as an Independent candidate for Riverina in the upcoming federal election?
It was not a decision she took lightly.
Wagga born and bred Barbara felt that to be a truly independent voice and hence to be able to fairly and equitably represent all the people of Riverina, she needed to stand alone and present herself to the community without outside in uences.
Barbara brings to the role decades of life experience along with professional expertise in social services.
She was awarded her OAM for services to women and the community and has held many voluntary positions in these elds, including roles in Rotary, Womens Climate Congress, the Chamber of Women in Business and the National Council of Women Australia and her current chairmanship of Big hART.
It is her goal to see regional and rural families supported and provided with all the services they need to thrive that has motivated her to embark on this challenge.
“I was born the third daughter of a conservative farming family,” Barbara said.
Yvonne and Barb at S&Ajs during Barbara’s visit to Young last month.
“I was the last child and had been the last hope for my father to have a son to take over our mixed farm of sheep, cattle, cropping and pigs. Whatever had to be done was done by us girls with Mum, helping Dad.”
She knows the challenges of work on the land – the weather, the prices at market, the distance from city health and communication services.
She attended a small one teacher school, Eunonyhareenyha.
“There were more letters
in the name of the school than there were students,” she said.
“I walked to school every day about 2.5 km each way, rain hail or shine.
“There were no school drop-o s or pick-ups.”
Barbara went on to high school and then worked in a pathology laboratory but was forced to leave when she married and became pregnant.
When she tells her grandchildren this, they nd it hard to comprehend.
As a married woman, Barbara again lived and worked on a sheep and cattle farm in Wagga.
She was very active in a wide range of voluntary community activities, including producing theatre restaurants, picnic races without horses.
She attributes her resilience to her rural and community background.
“On the land, responsibility falls on you every day,” she said.
“If something happens, it’s you who has to x it. It builds resilience and we see that in regional and rural communities.”
These days Barbara lives with her husband Peter on a small semi-rural 60-hec -
tare property in Wallaroo. They named it Terroux. Since moving there in 2005, they have planted more than 12,000 trees and regenerated degraded grazing country into a collection of green spaces, plantations and formal gardens.
They regularly hold open gardens and charity fundraising events which also support local, national and sometimes international performing artists – singers, dancers and musicians.
They have also hosted writers for residencies.
Since Barbara announced her candidacy in December 2024 in her birthplace of Wagga, she and her husband Peter have been travelling around the electorate in their caravan meeting as many people as they can and listening to the concerns of the residents.
They have visited Crookwell, Binda, Laggan, Taralga, Cowra, Cootamundra, Young, Wombat, Junee, Talbingo, Khancoban, Tumbarumba and Tumut.
There they have met businesspeople, parents, grandparents, young people, local media, local government representatives, members of a men’s support group and volunteer
community service workers.
In Young Barbara visited a number of small businesses such as S&AJs, Wilkies, La Chikky, and Sim.ple, and chatted with their owners.
She also visited JMR support services and spoke with John and some of the participants.
Barbara feels she has gained valuable perspectives from this huge variety of conversations.
She has found that people are very ready to speak with her and to express what their most pressing needs are.
Peoples’ concerns have varied from place to place, emphasising the diversity of the region and the need for proper representation at the Federal Government level.
Barbara’s long and close association with the region allows her to understand the range of views people express.
She is also able to make a constructive contribution because of her experiences as a regional resident as well as through her involvement with community organisations and projects.
She said that the key issues of health services both GP and specialist, aged and
childcare, educational and employment opportunities, especially for youth, internet and transport connections, affordable housing and the cost of living are what people most want to talk about.
There are also varying views about water and energy sustainability to consider.
If elected to Federal Parliament, Barbara said she is determined to raise these concerns and to press for action to improve the lives of the citizens in the Riverina electorate.
“For me it’s about equity and finding solutions that draw on the strength of the communities,” Barbara said.
“My professional work in youth justice has convinced me that people can bring about positive change both in their own lives and in the wellbeing of the community.”
Barbara is always keen to listen to locals.
She can be contacted by emailing: barbara@barbarabaikie.com.au, on Facebook and Instagram or by phone on 0459 061 879. Follow the campaign trail at https://barbarabaikie. com.au.
CONTRIBUTED
Pheonix announced as Greens Riverina candidate
Riverina Greens are pleased to announce that a local young Greens member Pheonix Valxori has been preselected as their candidate for Riverina at the forthcoming federal election.
“Being selected as the Candidate to represent the Greens in the Riverina is an incredible honour,” Pheonix said.
“I am thankful my fellow members have such trust in me. I am excited to represent my party moving forward.
“The Albanese Government has done little to build faith in it and has held policy back as an ‘election promise’ when they’ve previously demonstrated they do not stick to their promises.
“And Dutton’s Liberal has actively decided to target Australia’s working class and
Indigenous communities.
“Neither has done anything to prevent the growing problem of climate change.
“The Greens are the only party who aims to help improve Australian’s quality of life, protect the environment and commit to climate action.”
Over the months leading up to the federal election Pheonix will detail all the Australian Greens policies through media announcements, public forums, social media, street stalls and letterboxing.
Pheonix grew up in Wagga Wagga and went to Mount Austin High School.
Phoenix is a young queer disabled person who has seen rsthand the failings of our current member and government.
“I’ve seen people go to
hospital with scurvy because they can’t a ord a doctor let alone the proper nutrition,” Pheonix said.
“Our current member has le the regional hubs to fend for themselves, it is thanks to this we’ve seen a decline in the amount of support for those with nancial hardship or a lack of housing. It is only through a member committed to helping those in need that the Riverina will thrive.”
Pheonix is an active member in the community who is committed to helping its members.
They’ve previously done volunteer work at the Wagga Mardi Gras.
RIGHT: Pheonix Valxori is running for the Greens in the next Federal election.
PHOTO: Supplied
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
4 Which ancient linear units were based on the length of the forearm (6)
7 To confuse or puzzle, is to do what (8)
8 What is a harmonious union of sounds (6)
9 Which term describes a man native to the Netherlands (8)
11 What are wigwams of Native North Americans (7)
13 What is one of the twelve disciples called (7)
15 To be of low character is to be what (7)
17 Name the mythological god of the sea (7)
20 What are hermits known as (8)
23 What, in biology, is the intercellular substance of a tissue (6)
24 Which portable shade offers protection from rain, etc (8)
25 When something confuses, it does what (6)
DOWN
1 What might we call a young girl’s sweetheart (4)
2 What is the big top known as (6)
3 Who was Eve’s gentleman friend (4)
4 Which device is used for moving heavy weights (5)
5 Name the muscle on the front of the upper arm (6)
6 How many singers are there in a trio (5)
9 Who was Australia’s second Prime Minister, Alfred ... (6)
10 What is the studio of an artist (7)
12 What, colloquially, are prison guards called (6)
14 Which word element refers to hardness or solidity (6)
E-QUATIONS 7
Letters have a number value
E-QUATIONS
Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
16 Which compounds contain oxygen (6)
18 To rub out, is to do what (5)
19 What is a means of connection (5)
21 Name the Italian island, the scene of Napoleon’s first exile (4)
22 Snake-like fishes are known as what (4)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
WHICH WORDS
1 HESTERNAL
(a) Irregular (b) Of different origin (c) Of yesterday
2 NAZE
(a) A headland or cape
(b) A Jewish ascetic under a vow
(c) An Indian court official
BIYWORD
Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.
CLUES:
Chose (5)
Concealed (3)
Crimson (3)
Enthusiast (7)
Irate (3)
Kept company (5)
Metamorphose (abb) (5)
Scolds (7)
Sound detector (5)
State Electoral Office (3)
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
Classifieds
GRENFELL CAR CLUB HCM AGM
PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE EXISTING TELSTRA MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION WITH 5G AT: Lot 2 DP 601303, Quandialla-Caragabal Road, Quandialla NSW 2721 www.rfnsa.com.au/2721001
1. Proposed upgrade consists of:
• Remove 2 x existing solid parabolic antennas.
• Install 2 x new panel antennas (each measuring not more than 2.8m long) and 1 x new solid parabolic antenna. Reconfigure 6 x existing panel antennas.
• Install ancillary equipment as required.
• Existing Telstra Equipment shelter to accommodate existing and proposed Telstra equipment.
1. The proposal is to improve Telstra’s 4G services and introduce 5G technology.
2. Telstra regards the proposed installations as Low Impact Facilities under the Telecommunications (Low Impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”) based on the descriptions above.
Wednesday, March 5, 2025, 7.30pm Grenfell Bowling Club
All welcome
3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Nikta P, community.consult@downergroup.com by COB Thursday 6th March 2025.
Telstra Limited ACN 086 174 781 Downer EDI Limited ABN 97 003 872 848 www.downergroup.com.au
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Top day of racing for our small schools
■ From back page
Caragabal Public School had six students qualify for the Lachlan Carnival.
Caragabal Public School’s Mia Ashton said they would like to thank Paul Faulker from Bedgerabong Public School for running the day and he did an amazing job.
Mr Faulkner said the carnival is a highlight for them and a great way to start the year.
“Catering for competitive swimmers and nonswimmers alike the day is designed for the kids to engage with students from other small communities, have some fun in and out of the water and to select a squad to represent our small schools at the Lachlan
District PSSA swimming carnival,” he said. “I’ve been involved with this event for 35 years now and it never ceases to amaze how much good will, support and encouragement comes from our parent groups on the day. “Many have to give up a day of work to be there but do it readily to be able to support us as teachers, to give their kids an experience and chance to compete,” Mr Faulkner said.
“Small schools are an extended family and the cheering and positive support from parents, grandparents, students and sta just brings us all closer and inspires the kids to achieve their best, try something new and maybe just discover a new talent.”
By COLIN HODGES
BRAZILIAN born jockey Leandro Ribeiro and Dubbo trainer Connie Greig combined to win the $11,000 Total Wear Solutions Bedgerabong Picnic Cup before a crowd of over 1,800 on Saturday at the beautiful racecourse west of Forbes.
On the immaculate turf track, Laisvas (Leandro Ribeiro, $2.20) tracked the leader Namarari then swept to the front before the home turn and won the 1400 metres Cup by over ve lengths from Media Chick (Zara Lewis, $5.50) and Stateswoman (Arthur Pollock, $2 favourite).
Connie Greig and Leandro Ribeiro have been dominant on the picnic circuit over recent seasons and they completed a winning double at Bedgerabong with Allande in the 1400 metres Lachlan Sands Class 1 Trophy Handicap.
Well supported with several of the 11 bookmakers, Allende ($4) from fourth wheeled around the eld and won by nearly four lengths from Ready For Li o (Eloise Drews, $2.30 favourite) and Yet Tobe A Cod (Zara Lewis, $7).
Parkes trainer Sharon Je ries has won the 800 metres Daniel Ball Transport-Clearview Bracelet on multiple occasions and this year it was with the well performed TAB track sprinter Obsessive Nature. Humping the 74kg top weight,
Obsessive Nature (Ashley Boyd, $2 to $1.70 favourite) came from last early to score a convincing win from the gallant warhorse Billy Bent Ear (Leandro Ribeiro, $3.60) and Real Salty (Todd Bailey, $5.50). An all the way winner at Gilgandra TAB meeting the previous Saturday, Zillions (Arthur Pollock, $2.30 favourite) gave trainer Sharon Je ries a Bedgerabong double when leading throughout to beat Rebel Love (Leandro Ribeiro, $5.50) and the fast nishing Scru ’s Magic (Eloise Drews, $7.50) in the 800
Laisvas wins 2025 Bedgerabong Cup
THE WAY
TO
metres Roylance Tractor Replacements Class B Handicap.
Trained at Forbes by Peter Kirby, East Harlem in an exciting nish won the opening race, the 1100 metres Dunk Insurance Class 3 Trophy Handicap.
Less than a half length separated the rst four placegetters with East Harlem (Zara Lewis, $2.20 to $4) arriving in time to beat the leader Puerto Rico ($3.60 favourite), Sauce Dragon (Ashley Boyd, $6) and Individualist Leandro Ribeiro, $5.50).
Long time highly successful Nyn-
gan trainer Rodney Robb won the 1100 metres Local Business Mates Maiden Plate with Hammoon Summer (Paul Zerafa, $4) which came from fourth to beat Waterpark Creek (Eloise Drews, $3.70) and Bold Bender (Leandro Ribeiro, $3.60 favourite).
The Connie Greig trained Bold Bender backed up the next day to nish third in a big eld at Dubbo TAB meeting. Condobolin Picnics to race on Saturday and Mudgee TAB meeting on Sunday.
THE Grenfell Rugby Union Club’s rugby touch competition saw strong action on the eld on Monday, February 18.
Results: Grasshoppers 0 were defeated by Bin Chooks 5. Iandra Knights 9 defeated Bye Week 1 . No Mercy 13 defeated The Hustlers 2 . Strong results in
Bedgerabong Picnig Race Club president Nathan Clarke congratulated connections of Laisvas, jockey Leandro Ribeiro and trainer Connie Greig, on winning the 2025 Bedgerabong Cup.
The Rugby Union touch competition has been strongly contested.
PHOTO: Supplied
Audrey, Thea, Lexi, Cooper, Amelia, Oliver, Luke and Ms Primrose Bradley travelled from Quandialla Public School for the annual Forbes Small Schools Swimming Carnival.
Falicia, Bailey and Amity race to the finish in the 50 metre breaststroke event.
Jacob, Aiden, Nic, Hunter and Lewis were getting ready for their 50 metre breaststroke race.
Swimmers compete in the junior girls 50 metre breaststroke.
LAISVAS LED
HOME
WIN THE BEDGERABONG CUP ON THE IMMACULATE TRACK.
Caragabal carnival success
By BRENDAN McCOOL
Schools from around the region gathered in Forbes on Wednesday, February 2 to take part in the Small Schools Swimming competition.
Taking part in the swimming carnival were students from Quandialla Public School, Caragabal Public School, Bogan Gate Public School, Bedgerabong Public School and Eugowra Public School.
Caragabal Public School came away with a raft of champions and were named the champion school with an average score of 17.64 ahead of Quandialla Public School with an average of 16, Bedgerabong Public School with an average of 15.82, Eugowra Public School on 15 and Bogan Gate Public School with an average 7.6.
The Senior Girl Champion was Caragabal’s Emily Maslin.
The Senior Boy Champion was awarded to Eugowra’s Aiden McMahon.
The Junior Girl Champion was Elsie Noble from
Eugowra Public School.
Flynn Miks from Eugowra Public School was named the Junior Boy Champion.
Zailee Brockman from Bedgerabong Public School was named the Sub Junior Girl Champion.
Quandialla’s Luke Slater was named the Sub Junior Boy Champion.
Both the Junior and Senior Relay was won by Caragabal Public School.
The parent relay was won by Bedgerabong Public School, for the fourth year in a row.
The relay team swum 0.46sec outside nominated time, with the second and third placed teams no more than 1.5 secs out.
Along with being named the Senior Girl Champion, Emily Maslin also set a new record in the 11 year girls 50 metre breaststroke with her time of 57.85.
Quandialla Public School had two students; Macey Yerbury and Kate Johnston qualify for the Lachlan Swimming Carnival which will be hosted at Condobolin.
■ Continued page 11
Hamish Ridley, Bec Maslin, Martin Dykho , Emily Maslin, Alice Maslin, Reese Baker, Lauren Ridley and Kath Baker were cheering on Caragabal Public School’s swimmers.