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RIDE KEEPS ON GIVING

More than 70 participants of the Ride to Give Charity ride stopped in Grenfell as part of their 500km journey to support regional youth.

Council welcomes new trainees

WEDDIN Shire Council

is pleased to welcome ve new apprentices and trainees through the O ce of Local Government’s Fresh Start Program.

The NSW Government has committed $252.2 million over six years to directly support local councils and the local government sector to develop sustaining workforces.

“Today we welcome ve new positions into our structure that have been externally funded by the NSW Government’s initiative,” General Manager, Noreen Vu said.

“The positions are new and

will support areas within our business to grow and we are very thankful for this funding.”

The new positions include

 Information Technology (IT) O cer - Trainee

 Customer Service and Service NSW - Trainee

 HorticulturalistApprentice

 Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Trainee

 Civil Construction Engineering - Trainee

Council has made applications for further positions to complement the business in Round 2 of the Fresh Start

Program and looks forward to hearing about the success of their applications.

Participants of this program were inducted on Monday in a comprehensive induction program.

“Our new employees will be supported with three hours of study a week during work time to assist them with their study requirements through their program over the next 18 to 24 months” Ms Vu said.

“The program aims to build capacity in our council and increase our local capacity, welcome aboard to our new team.”

Pre-Paid Funerals

Perhaps the best time to arrange a funeral is before it’s needed, without the emotion and stress that often accompanies a death. A pre-paid funeral plan is a service planned and paid for in advance. It is secured at today’s prices, which gives you total control over your funeral.

For more information about our pre-paid funeral options call Patricia on (02) 6343 2501

Weddin Shire Council has welcomed five new trainees and apprentices. PHOTO: Supplied
PHOTO: Supplied

Country Mayors call out failure to address funding shortfalls

COUNTRY MAYORS ASSOCIATION

MAYOR Rick Firman OAM, Chairman of the NSW Country Mayors Association (CMA) has bemoaned the major parties’ lack of commitment to Local Government and their failure to address funding shortfalls that were clearly identied in the Interim Report into Local Government Sustainability.

“Despite on-going calls from all Local Government peak bodies and from individual councils for the annual Commonwealth Financial Assistance Grants to increase 1% of taxation revenue, not a single party has addressed the issue,” Mayor Firman said.

us, we will just go away? Not likely!”

has identi ed falling revenue as the major contributing factor to the nancial sustainability challenges that many councils in NSW current ly face, the CMA stated. butions, coupled with rate pegging in

NSW and increasing operating costs are making it extremely di cult for councils and particularly country councils to continue to deliver services and infrastructure at the levels their communities need and deserve,” Mayor Firman said.

“Local Government expects that the unique role that councils perform in delivering on-ground services to the people living in every corner of Australia will be recognised and funded appropriately by the Commonwealth. The Federal Election provides a platform for all parties and the Independents to make that commitment.” Mayor Firman said.

“The Interim Report identi ed that Local Government is being increasingly relied upon to deliver services and infrastructure which were traditionally under the purview of the Commonwealth, state and territory governments, and yet Commonwealth grants have decreased not increased” Mayor Firman said. “We believe it is completely unacceptable that we should wear the responsibility without adequate funding.”

In addition, CMA research has shown that apportioning the Grants based on population does not see funds go to where they are most needed. In smaller country coun-

cash to meet three months of expenses

 40% of Councils did not meet operating performance benchmarks

 35 Councils met none or just one of the three key nancial sustainability benchmarks

 Revenue growth lags expenditure growth a er adjusting for in ation resulting in negative growth.

“We all know that Australia is a big country, there is no getting away from the fact that local councils take on the lion’s share of the responsibility for delivering services and infrastructure into our

Busy time on our roads this April

WITH Easter, the school holidays and ANZAC Day all in April this year, it’s going to be a busy month of travel on roads around NSW.

NSW Police are encouraging all road users to take care on the roads this April.

Last Easter, five people died on NSW roads, down from seven in 2023.

Double demerits will again be in force for all speeding,

seatbelt, mobile phone and motorcycle helmet offences from Thursday, 17 April to Monday, 21 April (inclusive).

There will also be a double demerit point period for the ANZAC Day weekend from Thursday, 24 April to Sunday, 27 April (inclusive).

Drivers are asked to remember to slow down, schedule plenty of breaks, limit distractions in the car, don’t mix

alcohol or drugs with driving and ensure they and all their passengers are wearing seatbelts.

Police will be on the roads, and will also focuse on the “fatal five” offencses- speeding, drink and drug driving, failure to wear seatbelts, driving while fatigued, and distraction offences such as using a mobile phone while driving There are also a number of

JOURNALISTS

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CLASSIFIEDS 02 6342 1044

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ADVERTISING

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websites that could help to keep drivers safe and informed on the roads during this holiday period:

 Test how tired you might be before heading out on the road at testyourtiredself.com.au.

 Download and use the Speed Advisor App, a driver’s aid to help you stay under the speed limit.

 Visit livetraffic.com for real-time updates on traffic conditions, including road closures.

the Hon David Littleproud MP requesting meetings to discuss the issue.

The CMA stated it is incredibly disappointing that they have not had a single written response to their correspondence about this critical issue.

“A recent Zoom meeting with Shadow Minister Darren Chester did not provide any indication that the Coalition was prepared to provide any leadership on the issue. While the CMA appreciated the time the Shadow Minister took to meet with us, we seem to be on very di erent wavelengths” Mayor Firman said.

“Local Government is constantly expected to step in to ll the service and infrastructure gaps le by the Commonwealth and yet they seem to be ignoring the very real nancial constraints that most councils are working under,” Mayor Firman said.

“Enough is enough. Something has to give, the status quo simply cannot continue.”

Term goes by in a flash for students

QUANDIALLA Public School have released their newsletter for term four, week 11 on Wednesday, 9 April. Relieving Principal’s Report Term 1 has been and gone in a ash.

What a great term of learning and fun we have had.

Big Shed Works

The works in the shed are underway.

The pavers have been removed and crusher dust is being laid at the moment.

We are looking forward to a snazzy new astro turf perimeter in Term 2. Easter Hat Parade

What an awesome morning! Some great moves and poses strutted on the dance oor.

Thank you to all the parents and families that came to watch.

ANZAC Day Service

If you wish to participate in the ANZAC Day March, please make sure you are in full school uniform and meet up near the pool by 10:45 am, before the ANZAC Day Service commences.

Have a wonderful break and a happy Easter.

We look forward to seeing you in Term 2!

Kind regards, Brady Pudya, Relieving Principal Students returns for term two at Quandialla Public School on Wednesday, 30 April.

On Friday, 2 May there will be the PSSA Girls Touch Football at West Wyalong (Yr 5 & 6).

www.grenfellrecord.com.au

cgambrill@midwestmedia.com.au

Double demerits will be in force over Easter and ANZAC Day in what will be a busy April on our roads.
PHOTO: Supplied

Ride to Give stops in Grenfell

On Monday March 31 participants in the Ride to Give cycle challenge arrived in Grenfell for morning tea provided by the Lions Club members and friends.

The riders departed Dubbo on Sunday on their rst leg for an overnight stay in Forbes followed by an early morning start to Grenfell.

On arrival they were greeted by a wonderful musician followed by local John Hetherington reciting Henry Lawson poems.

As well as the Lions Club serving freshly made sand-

wiches, hot scones with jam and cream and slices they enjoyed freshly brewed coffee from Unwind Co ee van.

A Director of the FDC Building Group who sponsor the ride, Nicole Duncan was in Grenfell on a nostalgic visit, as her parents owned the property “Myee’ some years ago.

The FDC annual charity bike ride, Ride to Give, started nearly 10 years ago. They teamed up to create this incredible event, and it’s since become a cornerstone of their Giving Program. To

date, they have raised over $3 million for charities that mean so much to their people, partners, and clients.

This year, their team of 70 riders plus - FDC sta and friends - geared up to ride over 500km over three days, from Dubbo to Leeton.

In 2025, they are continuing their focus on supporting regional youth.

They agreed to partner with BackTrack Youth Works and Boys to the Bush, both of which are making a real difference in the lives of disadvantaged youth across New

South Wales. Backtrack CEO and Ride to Give rider Marcus Watson thanked the Lions Club their support and presented a donation to the club.

Cyclists le for a photograph at the painted Silos before heading o to Bribbaree School for lunch and overnight in Temora. The three-day rise nished in Leeton on April 1.

Forbes puts Ben Hall on trial 160 years on

Come one, come all, to the Trial of Ben Hall.

This is, of course, the trial the bushranger whose name is forever connected with the Escort Gold Robbery never received.

It was imagined in 1986 by then Forbes solicitor Dominic Williams, who penned a play to look at Hall, “whose name continues to grow in Australian legend as a folklore hero, more wronged against than wrong himself.”

“I trust the Trial of Ben Hall will not only entertain and educate but lead to a better understanding of the enigma that was Ben Hall – it being the trial that Ben Hall never received,” Mr Williams wrote at the time.

Now Forbes Shire Council’s Heritage Advisory Committee is bringing it back to life.

Forbes’ historic former Presbyterian Church will be transformed into an 1860s courtroom for the occasion, on Friday 9 May.

This day will mark 188 year’s from Hall’s birth and 160 years since he was shot dead - without trial - on 5 May 1865.

This imagined trial is an opportunity to open up discussion about our region’s history, says the committee’s Monica Wren.

Heritage advisory committee members and willing volunteers from our community have put their hands up to feature in the play, with Lewis Wilde to take the lead as Hall.

Expect colourful characters from the past come to life, and a bit of fun as these locals look to make Hall a talking point again.

Mr Williams’ thorough research brings forward the characters of the day and looks at the Escort Rock Gold Robbery that occurred just outside Eugowra, as well as the events that preceded it.

The play is for those who know Hall’s story, and also for those who don’t, for those who have an opinion about Hall and those who don’t - and it can be contentious, Mrs Wren said.

There are those who see Hall as a local lad

treated appallingly and forced into a life of crime, others who ask why we would glorify criminals.

“It’s our history - our colonial history,” Mrs Wren said.

“It’s only one part of the story but it tells the unique story of what life was like for Forbes in the goldfields era.”

The play itself will leave the verdict up to the jury on the night.

“At the end we don’t know what’s going to happen: defence and prosecution will present an argument, the jury will deliberate - and we

won’t know if he’s guilty or not guilty,” Mrs Wren said.

While a number of jury members have already been empanelled in Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM, Alister Lockhart OAM, Dr Untung Laksito, Laurel Hull and Bruce Adams, the remainder will be plucked from the audience on the night. Tea and refreshments will be served while the jury deliberates.

Such is the popularity of the Ben Hall story, the 100 tickets to this show have booked out in a record 24hours.

Rodney Morrison will play the Sheri . PHOTO: Forbes Heritage
Lewis Wilde is Ben Hall in the upcoming Trial of Ben Hall.
Pictured right: FDC Director Nicole Duncan, Ride to Give CEO Marcus Watson with Lion Deidre Carroll.
PHOTO: Supplied
(Front) Ben, Carmel, Dylan, Cody, (Back) Les, Marty, Maddy, Karen, Scott and Julie were ready for the races to start.
Sophie, Eilis, Lilli, Anastasia and Izzie were enjoying a great day out at the races.
Sharon Walmsley, Sophie Battley, Hayley Walmsley, Tarly Harvey, Shani Walmsley and Kate Batley were dressed to impress at the Grenfell Picnic Races.
(Front) Jenine Kinghorn, Cli Harvey and Mike Sawatske. (Back) Je Kinghorn, Ian Sawyer, John Cleveland, John Kenniwell, Eileen and Rob McElroy and Kevin Preston. Absent - Rob Sinclair. impress for the races.
Giselle Westman, Chloe Petty, Savannah Bruce, Hannah Kohnen, Marley Loader and Gerogia Petty were enjoying the Grenfell Picnic Races.
Isabelle, Erin, Carmel, Darren, Scott and Jason were enjoying the morning at the Picnic Races.
HUNDREDS of people gathered at the Grenfell Racecourse on Saturday, 12 April to enjoy a great day out at the Grenfell Picnic Races.
story on the back page

WEDDIN SHIRE COUNCIL

CAMP STREET, GRENFELL NSW 2810 PHONE: 6343 1212

Thursday 17 April 2025 - Street Stall | Anglican Church

Thursday 17 April 2025 - Ordinary Council Meeting | 5:00pm

Friday 18 April 2025 - Good Friday | Public Holiday

DATES TO NOTE

Saturday 19 April 2025 - Street Stall | Grenfell RSL Sub Branch

Monday 21 April 2025 - Easter Monday | Public Holiday

Tuesday 22 April 2025 - Trade Waste Collection (rescheduled from Monday 21 April 2025)

Wednesday 23 April 2025 - Recycling Collection | Villages

Wednesday 23 April 2025 - Recycling Collection | East (rescheduled from Friday 25 April 2025)

Thursday 24 April 2025 - Street Stall | Grenfell Hospital Auxiliary

Friday 25 April 2025 - ANZAC Day | Public Holiday

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.

1. ROAD WORKS NOTICE | MID-WESTERN HIGHWAY

Weddin Shire Council wishes to advise that Stage 3 road works on Mid-Western Highway, approximately 54kms West of Grenfell NSW and progressively working back to Grenfell will commence on 31 March 2025. The Stage 1 Mid Western Highway (East) is nearing completion. The planned works will be carried out in 3 stages:

Stage 2: Monday 28 April 2025 - Monday 5 May 2025

Stage 3: Monday 31 March 2025 - Friday 18 April 2025

Proposed Conclusion Date - Proposed Commencement Date

Note: Work is subject to satisfactory weather conditions.

2.

ROAD WORKS NOTICE | HENRY LAWSON WAY GRENFELL TO FORBES

Weddin Shire Council wishes to advise of road works on Henry Lawson Way, from the Grenfell Go-Kart Club, Mid Western Highway) progressively working towards the Forbes Shire Boundary. The works will be carried out from 1 April 2025 and scheduled to conclude on 22 April 2025.

Note: Work is subject to satisfactory weather conditions.

Working hours will be between 7:00am to 6:00pm from Monday to Friday, and from 8:00am - 1:00pm on Saturday’s with daytime speed reductions in place during these periods. After hours signage will be in place depending on the condition of the road however all efforts will be made to eliminate the need for afterhours speed reductions.

Possible short delays may be experienced during the road works. Council apologises for any inconvenience, and will endeavour to act as promptly as possible. Should you require access to property gates throughout the worksite, traffic control will assist you in a timely manner. Essential services such

as school bus runs and emergency service vehicles will be given priority during the road works.

Should you require further information, please contact Infrastructure Services Department on 02 6343 1212 during normal business hours or via email to mail@weddin.nsw.gov.au

ROAD WORKS NOTICE |

ARRAMAGONG ROAD GRENFELL NSW 2810

Weddin Shire Council wishes to advise that culvert replacement work will occur on Arramagong Road Grenfell NSW from 10 March 2025 through to 30 June 2025.

The culvert replacement work will require the road to be closed to all traffic, 200 metres either side of Tyagong Creek, as the existing culvert will be removed and then reconstructed.

Working hours will be between 7:00am to 6:00pm from Monday to Friday, and from 8:00am - 1:00pm on Saturdays.

Residents will be required to travel to the highway using whichever route is most convenient that does not involve crossing Tyagong Creek. Council apologises for any inconvenience and will endeavour to complete the works as promptly as possible. Note: Work is subject to satisfactory weather conditions.

Should you require further information, please contact Infrastructure Services Department on 02 6343 1212 during normal business hours or via email to mail@weddin.nsw.gov.au

PUBLIC NOTICE | WEEKEND WORK @ TAYLOR PARK

Weddin Shire Council advises residents that construction works could take place on weekends in Taylor Park over the next two months, as part of the exciting Taylor Park redevelopment.

Demolition has started, marking the beginning of the transformation, with early construction activity now underway ahead of the installation of the new inclusive playground, due to start the week of 14 April 2025.

Weekend work may take place on Saturdays between 8:00am and 1:00pm. However, if there is a need to go outside the Saturday hours, or work is required on Sunday, Council will consult with nearby neighbours surrounding Taylor Park. This is to allow the project to progress as quickly and smoothly as possible. Contractors will be asked to keep noise to a minimum outside of the Saturday

hours and Council will talk to nearby churches to make sure there is no construction noise when services are on.

Council thanks the community for their patience and cooperation and reminds anyone using the park to please stay clear of demolition and construction areas for safety.

Regular updates will be shared on Council’s Facebook page to keep the community informed throughout the project. For more information, visit: weddin.nsw.gov.au

SERVICE NOTICE | WASTE COLLECTION

Council wishes to advise of the change to waste collection services for the following period:

TRADE WASTE COLLECTION

Normal collection: Monday 21 April 2025 Now scheduled for: Tuesday 22 April 2025

CARDBOARD COLLECTION

Normal collection: Monday 21 April 2025 No rescheduled collection

RECYCLING COLLECTION | EAST

Normal collection: Friday 25 April 2025 Now scheduled for: Wednesday 23 April 2025

VILLAGE RECYCLING COLLECTION

Normal collection: Wednesday 23 April 2025 No changes, collection will occur on: Wednesday 23 April 2025

ON PUBLIC EXHIBITION

Council wishes to advise of the following documents on public exhibition:

• Draft Community Strategic Plan 2025 –2035 & Delivery Program 2024 – 2028

• Draft Operational Plan 2025 – 2026

• Draft Long-Term Financial Plan 2025 –2035

• Draft Strategic Asset Management Strategy 2028

• Draft Workforce Management Strategy 2025 - 2029

We welcome any input or submissions to mail@weddin.nsw.gov.au by the due date. Further information can be found on Council’s website at: https://www.weddin.nsw.gov.au/ Council/Public-Exhibition

CAREER WITH COUNCIL | POSITIONS VACANT

Council is seeking applications from suitably qualified and/or experienced staff to meet

Council’s operational plan requirements for the following positions

•  Senior Traffic Controller (Team Leader) Plant Operator (Roller)

Further information can be found at: https:// www.weddin.nsw.gov.au/Council/About-OurOrganisation/Employment

DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & ASSESSMENT ACT 1979

DA 8/2025, (NSW Planning Portal No: PAN521554)

Council has received an Application to consolidate 2 lots & construct a new agriculture fertilizer storage shed on LOT: 2 DP: 569688 and LOT: 22 DP: 1275415, known as Berrys Road GRENFELL NSW 2810.

Inspection: Development Application (DA) 8/2025 to consolidate 2 lots & construct a new agriculture fertilizer storage shed may be viewed online through the NSW Planning portal from 17 April 2025 to 8 May 2025. 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.

DA 7/2025, (NSW Planning Portal No: PAN509750)

Council has received an Application for the Alteration to Shop Front on LOT: 1 DP: 946363, LOT: 1 DP: 333399 and LOT: 1 DP: 970660, known as 107 Main Street GRENFELL NSW 2810.

Inspection: Development Application (DA) 7/2025 for the Alteration to Shop Front may be viewed online through the NSW Planning portal from 3 April 2025 to 24 April 2025. 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 1717 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.

INVITATION TO COMMENT | FIELD TRIAL GM CANOLA

YOUR WEDDIN SHIRE COUNCILLORS

Weddin Shire Council has received an invitation to comment on a field trial of genetically modified canola (DIR 215) in our Shire. The Office of Gene Technology Regulator has advised the public consultation period is between 2 April 2025 to 13 May 2025. Written submissions can be provided by using the Consultation Hub at https://consultations. health.gov.au/ogtr/dir-215-consultation/ by email OGTR.Applications@health.gov.au, or by sending a submission to the contact details below (quoting application number DIR 215). Please note comments and submissions will only be accepted until 13 May 2025. Further information can be found by following the link to the consultation hub or by contacting: Office of the Gene Technology Regulator MDP 54 GPO Box 9848 CANBERRA ACT 2601 Telephone: 1800 181 030 E-mail: ogtr@health.gov.au OGTR website: https://www.ogtr.gov.au/

FROM THE MAYOR’S DESK

Earlier this week, we were honoured to host the Hon Jenny Aitchison, Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, and Ms Steph Cooke, Member for Cootamundra who were in our LGA to officially open the completion of Greenethorpe-Koorawatha Road Project. This project was funded through the NSW Government’s Fixing Local Roads program to the value of $2.94 million with an additional $50,000 contribution from Weddin Shire Council. The upgrade spanned 7.1km of the road which included rehabilitation of the road surface, strengthening the road and establishing table drains. I would like to thank Council staff and contractors for their work on this essential route, the completion of the project brings connectivity and safety for all residents and visitors to the Shire.

Following the opening, we headed back to the Chambers for a Roundtable Working Lunch with Minister Aitchison and Ms Cooke, this provided Councillors and the Executive Management team to raise issues that are affecting rural townships; with a focus on increasing funding for our rural road network to cover the ever increasing cost of repairs. Congratulations to the new trainees and apprentices who commenced with Council this week, welcome to the team.

Safe travels for those going away for the Easter Break.

Enjoy the sunshine and hope the Easter Bunny finds you.

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

 Riding into the Day! Ebony Day and Theo Knapp a er a fun bike ride to school, embracing an active lifestyle on Ride to School Day.

 Beatrice and Georgina Nowlan enjoyed their morning scooter ride to school.

▶ Cruise White, Spencer White, Carter White, Nixon Hewen and Amarlie Hewen arriving in style on Ride to School Day.

Grenfell Public School celebrates ride to school day

In an enthusiastic demonstration of physical activity and community spirit, Grenfell Public School participated in Ride to School Day on Friday, 28 March.

The event aimed to encourage students to travel to school actively, promoting healthy habits and an environmentally friendly approach to daily commutes.

On a bright and sunny morning, students ocked to the school on their bikes and scooters, showcasing their excitement and commitment to an active lifestyle.

The event saw a remarkable turnout, with many students joining in the fun, turning the school grounds into a vibrant scene of colourful helmets and gleaming wheels.

Mr. Kilby, the school co-ordinator, highlighted the importance of such initiatives.

“Ride to School Day is not just about getting to school; it’s about fostering a culture of health and tness among our students. We want to encourage them to consider active transport as a fun

and healthy choice,” he said.

As part of the day’s activities, a lucky draw was held during the whole school assembly, where students had a chance to win a special prize pack. Excitement lled the air as Mr Kilby announced the winner – Leo Brown.

Parents and teachers alike praised the event, noting the positive impact of physical activity on students’ wellbeing and academic performance. The school plans to continue promoting active transport days

throughout the year, hoping to instill lifelong healthy habits in their students.

Grenfell Public School’s Ride to School Day was not just a celebration of biking and scootering; it was a reminder of the importance of staying active and making healthy choices. The school community looks forward to more events that inspire students to embrace an active lifestyle and make a positive impact on their health and the environment.

Caragabal Public School has fantastic end of term

PRINCIPAL’S REPORT

AS we wrap up Term 1, it’s hard to believe how quickly theweeks have flown by.

We’ve had a fantastic few weeks filled with exciting events and important milestones.

Excursion Highlights: A big thank you to everyone who supported our recent excursion. It was an incredibly fun and memorable experience for our students, and we appreciate the effort and enthusiasm that went into making it such a success.

State Swimming: We are very proud of our PP6 team as they head off to the State Swimming competition on Friday, 11 April.

You’ve all been training so hard, and we wish you the best of luck. Go team.

ANZAC Day: As we approach the holidays, we want to take a moment to acknowledge ANZAC Day.

The ANZAC Day service will be held on the 25th of April at 4pm at the Cenotaph.

We encourage everyone to participate and pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of our armed forces.

Federal Election at C.P.S: On the 3rd of May, we will be hosting the Federal Election at C.P.S.

It’s exciting to have such an important event taking place within our school community, and we hope everyone takes the opportunity to engage with the process.

Staff Development Days: Our staff will be participating in development days on the 28th and 29th of April, ensuring we continue to provide the best learning environment for our students.

The children’s first day back will be 30 April. We hope everyone enjoys a safe and relaxing holiday break.

Conclusion: It has been an incredibly busy and rewarding first term, and we are all looking forward to what Term 2 has in store. We wish you all a very happy Easter and a restful holiday.

A guide to arranging a funeral

The death of a loved one is o en painful and overwhelming.

Funerals provide an opportunity to remember your loved one, celebrate their life and grieve with others.

If you are arranging their funeral, there are some things to consider and steps to take.

The NSW Government has put together a guide that can be used when you need to arrange a funeral.

What you should do rst: First, you should nd out if your loved one has pre-arranged their funeral or purchased a grave site.

Details might be found in the person’s home, or in the person’s Will.

The NSW Government provides advice on nding a Will.

If you cannot nd details of funeral arrangements, you will need to arrange the funeral yourself.

Then consider:

1. Have any nancial arrangements been made to pay for the funeral such as a funeral bond, insurance or pre-paid funeral?

2. Does the deceased have a pre-paid grave?

3. Is there enough money in the deceased person’s bank account to pay for the funeral and have you contacted the bank about accessing the funds?

4. Are there any sickness, accident, life, superannua-

tion or private health insur ance policies which may make a payment towards the funeral?

5. Was the deceased a re turned service person or did they belong to any club, pen sioner association or trade union, which may entitle them to a funeral bene t?

Funeral products and ser vices

Using a funeral director: There is no legal requirement to use a funeral director, but they can o er comfort, sup port and advice during the funeral planning process.

Funeral directors usually provide these services:

- collect and lodge legal documents

- collect and care for the body

- supply the co n or casket

- contact the cemetery or crematorium and arrange the date and time of the funeral

- arrange oral tributes, newspaper notices and other matters if required

- provide a hearse, and if required, other vehicles for family and friends

- pay the various fees involved (called disbursements), including cemetery or crematorium fees, minister or celebrant fees for example

- complete registration of death with NSW Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages.

Funeral directors do not

need a licence and can set up business without any speci c training or quali cations.

Some funeral directors may also take commissions for using certain products or suppliers.

Know your rights, do your research and ask your family and friends for recommendations so you nd the funeral director right for your needs.

Funeral directors are required by law to provide you with:

- details of the funeral goods and services to be supplied

- a reasonable estimate of funeral goods and services. They must also provide

you with the cost of any disbursements for the burial or cremation.

For more information see the information standard page. Most funeral directors require payment in full before the funeral.

Cemeteries and Crematoria NSW regulates cemetery and crematoria operators, and provides information on planning for burial, cremation and ways to remember life.

Getting a written quote: Funeral costs in Australia vary widely depending on how simple or elaborate they are.

You may want to include or

exclude certain non-essential elements for the funeral depending on preferences or

Entering into an agreement and paying for a funeral: If you agree to the quote and wish to go ahead with the funeral director and their services, you will need to sign an agreement (con-

Before you sign an agreement or contract with a funeral director, consider the costs and nd out what money is available to help you pay for the service.

Money to pay for a funeral could come from:

- a funeral fund the deceased person may have paid

- the estate (assets of the deceased person, including any money) - check with the bank if they will allow money in the deceased person’s account to be used to pay for funeral expenses before probate is granted which is when the rest of the estate can be accessed

- a prepaid bene t or investment scheme, superannuation fund or life insurance

- an insurance fund, registered clubs, associations, and trade unions

- bereavement assistance.

Read the terms and conditions and look out for clauses about interest or late fees. Ask the funeral director to go through all the fees that

may apply. You can get someone else to help you review quotes and terms and conditions.

Laws that apply to funeral directors Funeral directors in NSW are subject to:

- public health, local government and work health and safety legislation

- Australian Consumer Law and the Fair Trading Act 1987 - the Funeral information standard in the Fair Trading Regulation 2019 - the Funeral Funds Act 1979.

Think about what you need when planning for the funeral: Think about which activities are needed for the funeral you are planning. You can also ask for advice from family or friends who have organised a funeral. Some activities, such as registering the death, have legal requirements and are marked with an ‘L’ on the funeral checklist. Further information can be found on the NSW Health website and Cemeteries and Crematoria NSW website.

For the full guide as well as a range of very helpful links and information be sure to jump online and visit the NSW Government website at https://www.nsw.gov.au/ legal-and-justice/consumer-rights-and-protection/ services/a-guide-to-arranging-a-funeral.

12.30 The

And

At

Chef. 1.00 Unforgotten. 2.00

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.05 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. 2.50 Doctor Who. 3.35 A Bite To Eat. 4.05 Would I Lie To You? 4.40 MythBusters.

Australia. 3.00 Back Roads. 3.30 Grand Designs New Zealand. 4.15 Long Lost Family. 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Hard Quiz. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Gardening Australia. 8.30 Sherwood. 9.30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. 10.00 Fresh Blood: Westerners. 10.30 Father Brown. 11.20 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 5.20 Kangaroo Beach. 5.50 Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.25 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.50 Robot Wars. 9.50 Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament Of Houses. 10.35 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Death In Paradise. Final. 1.30 Darby And Joan. 2.15 Extraordinary Escapes. 3.00 Megafauna: What Killed Australia’s Giants? 3.50 A Life In Ten Pictures. 4.45 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli. 5.10 Landline. 5.40 Australian Story. 6.10 Father Brown. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 MOVIE: Made In Dagenham. (2010) 9.20 Midsomer Murders. 10.50 Unforgotten. 11.40 Late Programs.

6.00 Shopping. 8.30 Travel Oz. 9.30 Better Homes. 11.00 Harry’s Practice. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Escape To The Country. 3.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 5.00 Horse Racing. All Aged Stakes Day, Mornington Cup and WATC Derby Day. 6.00 Dog Patrol. 6.30 Bondi Vet. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. All Aged Stakes Day, Mornington Cup and WATC Derby Day. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Americas. 8.00 MOVIE: Twister. (1996) Helen Hunt, Bill Paxton. 10.20 MOVIE: Anna. (2019) Sasha Luss. 12.50 The Black Donnellys. 2.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Boating. Circuit Boat Drivers C’ship. Season preview. Replay. 4.00 Full Custom Garage. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Football. AFL. Round 6. Adelaide v GWS Giants. 9.00 Storage Wars. 9.30 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 10.30 When Big Things Go Wrong. 11.30 Late Programs.

12.40 Tipping Point. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 2.00 Late Programs.

Special. 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 West Coast Cops. 8.30 MOVIE: Noah. (2014) 11.10 Hotel Chocolat: Inside The Chocolate Factory. 12.10 Late Programs. 6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Larry The Wonder Pup. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 Rebel Wilson’s Pooch Perfect. 1.15 Dancing With The Stars. 3.00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success. 4.00 Black-ish. 4.30 Frogger. 5.30 The Amazing Race. 7.00 MOVIE: The Smurfs. (2011) 9.05 MOVIE: Ghostbusters. (2016) 11.35 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Surfing Aust. 12.30 Destination WA. 1.00 Let’s Eat With George. Final. 1.30 MOVIE: Getting Even With Dad. (1994) 3.30 The Hundred With Andy Lee. 4.30 The Garden Gurus. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Torvill & Dean: Our Last Dance. 8.30 MOVIE: Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory. (1971) 10.35 MOVIE: Yes Man. (2008) 12.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success. 12.00 Dream Academy. 12.30 Dream Home. 2.30 Holey Moley Australia: Celebrity Special. 4.00 Black-ish. 4.30 Dodger. 5.30 MOVIE: The Angry Birds Movie. (2016) 7.30 MOVIE: Peter Rabbit 2: The Runaway. (2021) 9.20 MOVIE: Father Stu. (2022) 11.55 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Everyday Gourmet. 12.30 Australia By Design: Architecture. 1.00 10 Minute Kitchen. 1.30 Frugal Foodie. 2.00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 2.30 Taste Of Aus: BBQ. 3.00 What’s Up Down Under. 3.30 Farm To Fork. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 GCBC. 5.00 News. 6.30 Dog House Aust. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia.

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.35 Doctor Who. 3.25 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. 4.05 A Bite To Eat With Alice. 4.35 MythBusters. 5.30 Heartbreak High. 7.00 Spicks And Specks. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Live At The Apollo. 8.45 Gavin & Stacey. 10.15 ER. 11.00 Rage. 12.00 Heartbreak High. 12.45 Breeders. 1.10 QI. 1.45 ER. 3.10 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Motor Racing. Bathurst 6 Hour. Qualifying. 3.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Roubaix. Women’s

6.00 Kids’ Programs. 5.10 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 5.50 Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.30 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 8.10 Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament Of Houses. 8.55 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.35 Speechless. 10.00 Officially Amazing. 10.25 Dragon Ball Super. 10.50 Late Programs.

Round 6. Sydney v Port Adelaide. 6.00 The Wash Up. 7.00 Football. AFL. Round 6. Western Bulldogs v St Kilda. 10.30 AFL Post-Game. 11.00 MOVIE: Air Force One. (1997) 1.35 Late Programs. 6.00

6.00 Morning Programs. 2.40 Doctor Who. 3.25 A Bite To Eat. 3.55 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Heartbreak High. 7.00 Spicks And Specks. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Lucy Worsley Investigates. 9.00

6.00 Back Roads. 6.30 To Be Advised. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Darby And Joan. Final. 8.15 Unforgotten. Final. 9.05 Boat Story. Final. 10.05 MOVIE: Ten Canoes. (2006) Crusoe Kurddal. 11.35 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 3.30 The Monster At The End Of This Story. 4.05 Grace’s Amazing Machines. 4.20 Odd Squad. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.50 Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.30 Bluey’s Big Play. 8.20 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 9.40 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.25 Abbott Elementary. 10.45 Late Programs.

Rugby League. NRL. Round 7. Newcastle Knights v Cronulla Sharks. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 60 Minutes. 8.00 RBT. 8.30 The People V Michael Jackson. 10.30 9News Late. 11.00 See No Evil. 11.50 The First 48. 12.40 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Larry The Wonder Pup. 9.00 Drop Dead Weird. 10.00 Holey Moley Australia: Celebrity Special. 11.30 Dream Home. 1.15 My France With Manu. 2.05 Home And Away. 4.00 MOVIE: Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse. (2018) 6.30 Puppy School. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: S.V.U. 10.30 Bones. 11.30 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.00 Skippy. 11.30 Edgar Wallace Mysteries. 12.50 The Baron. 2.00 MOVIE: The Heart Of The Matter. (1953) 4.15 MOVIE: Dunkirk. (1958) 7.00 Rugby Union. Super Rugby Pacific. Round 10. Western Force v Hurricanes. 9.30 Super Rugby Pacific Post-Match. 9.45 MOVIE: The Jackal. (1997) 12.15 Late Programs.

6.00 Morning

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) You’re doing better on the flexibility issue, but you still need to loosen up a

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Your personal aspect continues to dominate this week. But try to make time to deal with important career-linked matters as well. A change of plans might occur by the weekend.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Excuses are not really needed for much of the confusion that occurs this week. However, explanations from all parties could help in working things out to everyone’s satisfaction.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A surprising (but pleasant) recent turn of events continues to develop positive aspects. But be prepared for a bit of a jolt on another issue that needs attention.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 AFL Sunday Footy Show. 12.00 My Favorite Martian. 12.30 Getaway. 1.00 MOVIE: Time, Gentlemen, Please! (1952) 2.45 MOVIE: The Small Voice. (1948) 4.30 MOVIE: Foreign Intrigue. (1956) 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: Gran Torino. (2008) 10.55 MOVIE: Son Of God. (2014) 1.40 Late Programs.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Creating a fuss might bring you the attention that you want. But are you prepared for all the explaining you’d have to do? It’s better to use more subtle ways to make your bid.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) With education continuing to be a strong factor this week, this could be the time to start learning some new skills that can later be applied to a bid for a potential career move.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) You might do well to reconsider some of your current time priorities before you get so deeply involved in one project that you neglect meeting a deadline on another.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21)

AQUARIUS

PISCES (February

James Gooden: A local voice for the Riverina

JAMES Gooden, a lifelong Riverina resident and sheep and cattle farmer, is running as an Independent candidate for the Federal seat of Riverina. With deep ties to the land and a nononsense approach to politics, James is campaigning for genuine, community-first representation - free from party machines and bigcity agendas.

Born and raised in the electorate, James lives on his family property near Cootamundra. He understands the challenges faced by farming families, small towns, and rural industries because he’s lived them.

As a former Chair of the Riverina Sustainable Food Alliance, James has long advocated for stronger regional economies, local decisionmaking, and long-term land stewardship.

“I’m running because the Riverina needs a strong, independent voicesomeone who will speak up for the region without being told how to vote by a party room,” James said.

“I’m not here to play politics. I’m here to get things done.”

James’s priorities reflect what he hears on the ground: cost-of-living pressures, water security, better health and aged care services, and practical infrastructure that respects both communities and farmland. He supports a balanced energy future that includes nuclear, and strongly opposes the unchecked spread of large-scale solar and wind factories across productive agricultural land.

He is also calling for urgent attention to long-stalled projects like the Barton Highway Bypass, Inland Rail, the Gobbagombalin Bridge, and Wagga Wagga Airport - issues he says should have been resolved years ago.

“We don’t need more reviews and delays. We need decisive decisions

and proper delivery,” James said. James has been clear that landholders must be properly consulted and compensated when major projects like HumeLink or industrial energy developments affect farms, homes, or communities.

“Too often, local voices are shut

out of decisions made in Sydney or Canberra. That has to change.”

If elected, James has pledged to vote with the Riverina - not a party. In a hung parliament, he will negotiate in good faith with all sides, based on expert advice and what’s best for the electorate. His campaign is primarily

self-funded and powered by volunteers from across the region. He is considering how-to-vote card preferences carefully and says any recommendations will be made with full transparency and in the best interests of Riverina voters. For more information, visit www. jamesgooden.com.

Sustainable Food Alliance, James has long advocated for stronger regional economies, local decisionmaking, and long-term land stewardship.
James Gooden, a lifelong Riverina resident and sheep and cattle farmer, is running as an Independent candidate for the Federal seat of Riverina. PHOTOS: Supplied
As a former Chair of the Riverina

Time to get Australia back on track

COST-of-living pressures are weighing heavily on the minds of hard-working Riverina families and struggling small business owners.

As Australia heads to a Federal election, people need to ask themselves: “Are we better off now than we were before this Labor Government took office?”

Disappointingly, the answer is easy.

It is an emphatic NO! Regional communities, in particular, are hurting.

The cost of electricity, food, fuel and insurance has increased significantly over the past two-anda-half years.

Housing affordability is a huge issue and rental properties are scarce and expensive.

There is a better way. The Coalition has a plan to get Australia and the economy back on track.

The Nationals in Coalition with the Liberals have developed a comprehensive suite of policies which address the issues that matter most to you, such as the cost of living and housing, and will deliver the strong leadership on national security and foreign policy our nation needs.

Our policies include:

 delivering immediate cost-ofliving relief by cutting the fuel tax in half;

 delivering cheaper energy with a balanced energy plan which includes gas, zero-emissions nuclear and renewables where they do not impact prime farmland;

 preventing supermarkets from exploiting farmers and consumers with a new competition policy, including divestiture powers and a supermarket commissioner;

 addressing the burden on

infrastructure and services by stopping the record levels of yearly net migration by reducing permanent migration by 25 per cent and introducing caps on foreign students;

 making it easier to build and buy homes by funding essential infrastructure and utilities in housing developments and imposing a two-year ban on foreign investors and temporary residents

from purchasing existing homes; and

 investing $9 billion into Medicare to fix Labor’s healthcare crisis.

With the vision of an experienced Nationals’ Member for Riverina and the Coalition in Government, the Riverina’s and Australia’s potential are unmatched.

I hope to have the great honour and privilege to continue to represent this remarkable region in the Federal Parliament.

I am proud much has been achieved in the Riverina over the years, including:

 almost $1.5 billion delivered to upgrade and secure the future of our Defence bases;

 establishment of a new, purpose-built rural medical school in Wagga Wagga to help address the doctor shortage across the Riverina; and

 more than $60 million to various infrastructure and community projects across the electorate, including main street upgrades which have beautified and improved local towns.

Each of these initiatives has improved quality of life and secured a brighter future for our region.

But more work needs to be done, and only a Nationals Member for Riverina can deliver it.

Please visit

www.nationalsplan.org.au to find out more about the Coalition’s plan.

Michael McCormack hopes to have the great honour and privilege to continue to represent this remarkable region in the Federal Parliament.
PHOTO: Supplied

Central West

Second gen Toyota C-HR brings style

WE’VE always liked the look of the Toyota C-HR.

Now in its second generation and built in Turkey, C-HR o ers more style, more power and more equipment than before but it comes at a cost.

Prices have jumped considerably since our last encounter with the little crossover.

The letters C-HR stands for Compact High Rider, Cross Hatch Run-about or Coupé High-Rider.

STYLING

A rationalised line-up sees three models, with a choice of two drivetrains and either front- or all-wheel drive.

Adopting Toyota’s new ‘Hammer Head’ design language, C-HR is distinguished on the outside by 17 or 19inch alloys, LED lights with automatic high beam, a rear spoiler plus a grained pattern for the front grille, black bumpers and pillar trim.

Entry GXL is priced from $42,990 plus on-roads and comes with a 1.8-litre four cylinder hybrid drivetrain, together with a 7-speed CVT style transmission and frontwheel drive.

Next comes the flashy Koba, the subject of our test, priced from $49,990, with the same 1.8-litre hybrid and 7-speed CVT.

This hybrid is shared with many Toyota models, including Corolla, Corolla Cross and Lexus CT hatch.

At the top of the range sits the all-wheel drive GR Sport, priced from $54,990 plus on-

roads, with a larger 2.0-litre hybrid.

Inside, the fit out uses a range of recycled materials and no animal-derived products.

Standard kit includes heated sport front seats with combination suede-like and fabric upholstery, powered driver seat with memory, dual-zone climate air with nanoe X air cleaning technology, ambient lighting with colour selection and privacy glass for the rear, and rearside windows.

There are also 19-inch alloys, adaptive cruise, keyless smart entry and start, digital rear-view mirror, auto LED lights and wipers, autolevelling bi-LED headlights, electronic parking brake, front and rear parking sensors, and a 4.2-inch colour driver display and a powered tailgate.

SAFETY

A comprehensive fivestar safety package encompasses 10 airbags, panoramic view camera, colour head-up display and forward collision warning, brake assist and autonomous emergency braking.

The Toyota Safety Sense suite includes the pre-collision safety system, active cruise control, lane trace assist, parking support brake, road sign assist (speed signs only), safe exit assist and more.

Koba and GR Sport both get a tyre repair kit.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS

The hybrid powertrain consists of a naturally as-

MODEL LINE-UP:

GXL 2WD: $42,990

Koba 2WD: $49,990

GR Sport AWD, $54,990

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Toyota dealer for drive-away prices.

pirated 1.8-litre engine and single electric motor, with a combined output of 103kW and 142Nm up 14 per cent on the previous model.

The electric motor contributes 70kW and 185Nm to this equation, with an updated lithium-ion battery pack replacing the old nickel metal hydride unit.

The CVT transmission provides seven steps or simulated gears that provide a sportier drive, but lacks paddles.

DRIVING

Two words spring to mind when it comes to describing the C-HR stylish and tight.

It’s 37mm wider than its predecessor which provides more shoulder room but the wheelbase remains the same at 2640mm.

That said, the design is amazing and unlike anything

out of the Toyota playbook, with a two-tone paint job that is a minor masterpiece.

The rear seat is claustrophobic, lacks legroom, doesn’t have rear air outlets and looks like it would get little use.

The concealed rear door handles, designed to give the car a coupe-like appearance, are awkward to use.

The privacy glass also makes it di cult to see out of the back.

The boot is on the smaller side.

The cabin has a more premium feel than before and it’s worth taking some time out to sit and study the interior. Check out the textures, finishes and the way panels flow into each other they’re really something.

Though the infotainment screen is angled towards the

driver, it and the instrument cluster remain separate units, instead of being housed in a single panel as is the norm.

It suggests the design is a reworking of the previous setup, rather than an all-new approach.

A smaller and lighter hybrid transaxle improves noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels, while the 1.8-litre petrol engine has been refined.

Both GXL and Koba are front-wheel drive only GR Sport is all-wheel drive.

The extra power shows, with greater electrical assistance where it is needed around town, but is o set to some extent by an extra 30kg of weight.

The car also spends more time in EV mode, thanks to the better battery and electric motor combination.

The CVT transmission provides seven steps or simulated gears that provide a sportier drive, but lacks paddles.

Punch the accelerator and the petrol- engine will kick in.

Based on a revised version of Toyota’s TNGA-C platform, suspension is Mac strut at the front and double wishbones at the rear across the line-up.

Ride and handling are terrific, with grippy Bridgestone Turanza rubber.

But the steering feels rubbery at times and the drive experience is far from engaging.

You need to work the drivetrain hard to get the best out of it, but the CVT’s ability to deliver the goods is limiting.

Under hard acceleration, it becomes harsh and noisy,

producing a sound like a lawnmower about to run out of fuel.

In the end you’ll run out of power before you run out of grip.

Fuel consumption is a claimed 4.0L/100km, it takes standard 91 unleaded and has a 43-litre tank. We were getting 4.7L/100km after more than 600km behind the wheel.

SUMMING UP

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again.

C-HR is a better looker than the Nissan Juke, its most direct competitor.

It’s a car I want to like but one which always seems to fall short short on power, short on space and short on practicality.

The all-hybrid line-up has pushed up prices more than $10,000, with the mid-spec Koba expected to account for 70 per cent of sales.

That’s a stopper right there.

RATINGS: Looks: 8.5 Performance: 7 Safety: 8 Thirst: 8

AT A GLANCE

MODEL RANGE

SPECIFICATIONS:

(Toyota Koba 2WD, 1.8 litre 4-cylinder hybrid engine, FWD, SUV)

STANDARD WARRANTY: Five years / Unlimited kilometres

■ SAFE AND STYLISH: The Toyota CH-R Koba o ers a sleek two-tone look and brings a five-star safety rating.

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

3 What are prizes to be won in competitions (8)

7 Name a form of stylised exercises based on Chinese martial arts (3,3)

8 What is a body of troops stationed in a fortified place (8)

9 What is an angle in a golf-links fairway (6)

10 Name a group of eight related items (8)

11 Which term describes a warning or caution (6)

14 Name some nocturnal carnivores that feed chiefly on carrion (6)

17 What might we call a plasterer (8)

18 Who created a former method of hypnosis, Franz Anton ... (6)

19 Name an extended musical composition (8)

20 What is a type of long, narrow pasta (6)

21 What describes one deserving of distinction, especially for poetic merit (8)

DOWN

1 Name a cylindrical rocket-launcher (7)

2 What is an altar attendant of minor rank (7)

3 Which English jockey won the Derby nine times, Lester ... (7)

4 Which planet is nearest the sun (7)

5 Name the 20th letter of the Greek alphabet (7)

6 Which instrumental compositions are usually in several movements (7)

11 Who wrote Alice in Wonderland, Lewis ... (7)

12 Which Pacific republic was formerly New Hebrides (7)

E-QUATIONS 7

13 What is propanone also known as (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.

14 Which substance is secreted by an endocrine gland (7)

15 Name the process by which the earth is worn away (7)

16 What is an alternative term for a halo (7)

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 INCALESCENT

(a) Increasing in heat (b) Not cautious or careful (c) Helplessly drunk

2 NOISOME (a) Clamorous (b) Unwilling (c) Injurious to health

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:

Bull-fighting cheer (3)

Eurasian bird: Jack ... (3)

Fearfully (7)

Military priest (5)

Nap: ... off (3)

Rewritable disk (3-2)

Swedish auto maker (5) Vacation (7) Very Important Person (3) Wanderer (5)

Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.

Classifieds

Early Childhood Teacher

Grenfell Preschool and Long Day Care Centre is a 70-place community based Centre in the beautiful town of Grenfell in the Central West of NSW. We are seeking an experienced Early Childhood teacher to join our team. The successful applicant must:

• Hold a Degree in Early Childhood (or working towards)

• Be able to work within a set roster, with some exibility available. Hold First Aid, Asthma and Anaphylaxis and Child Protection Quali cations

• Hold a current WWCC

• Have a sound knowledge and experience with the NQF, National Regulations & EYLF

Please send your resume and cover letter to director director@grenfellpreschool.com.au

Office Administrator

Grenfell

Preschool and Long Day Care Centre

We seek a highly organised person to oversee the day-to-day operations of our office including enrolments, fees, wages, answering phone calls, greeting visitors, handling correspondence, and maintaining office supplies. Remuneration is negotiable depending on qualifications and experience but will Be paid under the Children’s Service Award. The successful applicant will have excellent communication skills and experience with MYOB. An ability to multitask is essential Part time or job share may be considered. Application close 23rd April 2025.

Contact

Please send your resume and cover letter to director@grenfellpreschool.com.au

• Quality local journalism you can trust

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Wilson and Marsell claim win at tournament

WOMEN’S GOLF

Grenfell lady golfers held their annual tournament on Sunday, 13 April.

It was played as a 2 person ambrose with a shotgun start at 10am.

Twenty-six players played representing clubs from Warren, West Wyalong, Cowra, Canowindra, Forbes, Goulburn and local players.

The weather was good and the course was in good condition although very dry.

Many thanks to all the volunteers who helped to get the course ready, and organised carts and the book for the day.

A lovely lunch was shared by all players before the results were announced.

The Scratch winners were E. Wilson and C. Mansell from Cowra with 77. Scratch runners up were H. Lemon and W. Goodwin

from West Wyalong with 79. Scratch Third Place were locals Jan Myers and Sally Mitton with 80.

Handicap Winners were C.

Dobel and H. Moriarty from Cowra with 68 and a half.

Handicap runners up were locals L. Young and S. Sinclair with 69

Handicap: Third Place were locals M. Starr and E. Troth with 691/4

Nearest the pin on 9th was H. Lemon, and nearest the

pin on 18th was J. Myers. Straightest Drive: A Grade E. Wilson, B Grade L. Young and C Grade was P. Baker. Par 3 Jackpot on 12th Hole was won by Jan Myers.

Nearest the pin second shot on 8th hole was C. Mansell and E Wilson.

Next Weeks golf: Wednesday, 16 April is Stableford.

Saturday, 19 April is Stroke (Easter). Sunday, 20 April Stableford. The Vets Championships/ Greg Hughes Golf Day is set down for play on Saturday, 26 April.

The Ladies Championships are coming up on Saturday, 10 May and Sunday, 11 May. Until next week good gol ng and enjoy.

Grenfell Goannas host Eugowra in front of a bumper crowd

RUGBY LEAGUE

LAST Sunday at Lawson Oval the Grenfell Goannas hosted the Eugowra Eagles in all three grades.

On a warm Autumn’s day a bumper crowd turned out to see the locals win the Youth League match but it was the visitors Eugowra who triumphed in the League Tag and First Grade xtures.

Next weekend there is a general bye in the competition for Easter and then on Saturday, 26 April the Goannas are back in action when they travel to Wade Park Orange to take on the Warriors. Following are the match reports from last Sunday.

YOUTH LEAGUE

The Eugowra boys appeared to be in control of this match a er leading 14-4 at half-time but they invited Goannas back into the game a er a succession of errors in the second half.

Luke Frendo crashed over out wide and a er Mav Mooney slotted the pressure goal the young Goannas had hit the lead for the rst time in the match. Grenfell hung on to win 16-14 a er a frantic nal 5 minutes.

sloping and testing course.

President of Forbes and LVVGA Peter Barnes gave full credit to the energetic but small committee for putting on such a successful day.

“The course was presented in good shape, although not too much run while the greens were well sanded,” he said.

Best for Grenfell were Jaryd Mills, Tyson Lehay, Josh Clarke, Mav Mooney, Angus Buckland, and Player’s Player Harry Forde. Grenfell’s tries were scored by Josh Clarke, Marco Joyce, and Luke Frendo whilst Mav Mooney knocked over 2 conversions.

they stuck to the task and had a much better second half highlighted by a long distance individual try to Faith Smith. Zoe Gavin picked up the Player’s Player and she received good support from Chelsea Harveyson, Sophie Berry, Faith Smith and Emily Brenner.

LEAGUE TAG

The Eugowra Geagles showed why they are strong premiership contenders this year by defeating the Girlannas 42-4 a er leading 28-0 at half-time. Grenfell were down on troops but

FIRST GRADE

A er a tight opening 20 minutes the scores were locked at 4 all but Eugowra were then able to exert their dominance in the lead up to half-time and went to the break up by 20-4. The second half was a bit scrappy and although the

Goannas didn’t let the score blow out the Eagles were always in control and went on to record a 30-8 victory. The Goannas were best served by Ty Ashe, Jackson Vallely (Player’s Player), Jim Hazell, Michael Smith, Jai Purdie and Wade Newham. Their points came from tries to Leon Nongkas and Caleb Haddin.

The First Try Scorer Calcutta winners on the day were Youth League (Alan Scott $130), League Tag (Craig Mooney $390), and First Grade (Josh Clarke $690).

Grenfell players dominated the two grades with Keith Cartman taking A grade with 39 points while John Grant won B grade on 37 points. Runner-up in A grade was Barrie Toms from Condobolin with 36 points and in B grade it

The Val Lowe memorial scratch winners E Wilson and C Mansell were congratulated by Jan Myers and captain Val Forsyth.
Freuin Forsyth congratulate Craig Solomon, co-owner of Artieos on winning the 1000 metres CL Commodities Picnic Bracelet.
The Grenfell Goannas hosted the Eugowra Eagles in front of a bumper crowd. PHOTO: Supplied

Blackhill Kitty claims Picnic Cup

BLACKHILL Kitty, runner up to Bush Warrior in the Picnic Championship Final at Coonamble last year, won the 1400 metres Lane Cove Legends-Doug & Jill Allen Memorial Grenfell Picnic Cup on Saturday for Dubbo trainer Connie Greig.

In front of a big crowd at Grenfell, the Cup was a good spectacle with Namarari winner of the recent Picnic Cups at Crookwell and Yass, leading the 8 horse eld from Incantata and Blackhill Kitty.

Reaching the lead in the straight, Blackhill Kitty (Leandro Ribeiro, $3.50 equal favourite) won by almost a length from Hit Song (Arthur Pollock, $4) with four lengths to Incantata (Tamsin Gough, $6).

The other legs of a winning treble for Connie Greig were Stromness in the 1000 metres Mawhood’s IGA Maiden Plate and Joshua in the Cooper Civil & Crushing--Presidents Cup Class 1 Trophy Handicap which at 2150 metres is the longest race at the Picnics in NSW. Ridden a good front run-

ning race by Todd Bailey, Joshua ($4.40) held on to beat Son O’ War (Paul Zerafa, $4.60) and Allande ( Leandro

Ribeiro, $1.50 favourite).

Starting the $1.40 favourite, Stromness (Leandro Ribeiro) set the pace and

1000 metres CL Commodities Picnic Bracelet and scored by nearly ve lengths from Joanneski (Arthur Pollock, $1.70 favourite) and Rebel Love (Todd Bailey, $5).

The other winners were Spirit Lake (Anaelle Gangotena, $2.60 favourite) trained by Darrell Burnett at Wagga and the Nikki Pollock, Scone trained One Command (Arthur Pollock, $1.60 favourite).

As is customary at Grenfell, trainers were exceptionally well looked a er with a big range of additional bonuses including special prizes for even the last horse to nish in each race.

Bourke Picnics are on Easter Sunday along with a Mudgee (TAB) meeting.

The Leading Trainer was awarded to COnnie Grieg, and the Leading Trainer Runner Up was awarded to Nikki Pollock.

survived a late challenge to win from Sweet And Sour (Anaelle Gangotena, $3.50) and Flirty (Emily Waters, $4).

From the Warren Ganderton stable at Nowra, Artieos (Dylan Parrott, $3.20) established a good lead in the

The Leading Jockey was warded to Leandro Ribeiroand the Leading Jockey Runner Up was awarded to Arthur Pollock.

■ For more photos from the Grenfell Picnic Races, head to page 15 and page 4

Blackhill Kitty, trained by Connie Greig, won the 1400 metres Lane Cove Legends Doug & Jill Allen Memorial Grenfell Picnic Cup on Saturday for Dubbo trainer Connie Greig.

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