Colby’s birds among best in state
CARAGABAL’S Colby Pout has demonstrated age isn’t everything when it comes to raising and showing poultry, with some of his animals named among the best in the state.
At the NSW State Junior Championships at Dapto Show hosted on 18 May, he came home with a range of awards for his roosters, ducks and geese.
Colby won champion with his silver spangle Hamburg bantam rooster and reserve champion black Hamburg
rooster under 8 yrs of age with his first rooster he bred.
He also won champion and reserve champion Hamburg of show. His Sebastopol goose got first place and his little call duck also received a first place.
Colby has had chickens since he was little but didn’t start raising roosters until after a twelve month off and on stay at the Westmead Children’s Hospital burns unit after walking through hot ash which
caused burns to his arms and legs.
When Colby was two years old, a family friend whom breeds and shows standard Hamburg brought him his first trio of silver spangle Bantam Hamburgs (hamburgers as Colby calls them).
After a while he was ready for his first show which he took his rooster and two hens along to, doing really well at the Canberra based show bringing home a champion and a first and third place.
Continues on page 3
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COLBY POUT HAS DEMONSTRATED AGE ISN’T EVERYTHING WHEN IT COMES TO RAISING AND SHOWING POULTRY. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
What’s on in and around Grenfell
GOOD OLD DAYS OF ROCK ‘N’ ROLL TOUR
4-6 July
The pioneers of the Australian rock ‘n’ roll era have joined together in concert for the first time in 60 years and additional tour dates have been announced to bring it out to the Central West. The Good Old Days of Rock ‘n’ Roll is an exciting and memory-riddled show and it’s hitting stages in Orange, Dubbo and Bathurst. From television shows including Johnny O’Keefe’s ‘Six O’Clock Rock’ and Brian Henderson’s ‘Bandstand’, so many talented performers and recording stars were born.
This is not a tribute concert, this is the real deal. Audiences will re-live all the fabulous original hits from the hitmakers themselves - Little Pattie, Digger Revell, Jade Hurley, Dinah Lee and Lucky Starr. Shows are at Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre on Friday, 4 July, 2pm, Orange Civic Theatre on Saturday, 5 July, 2pm, and Dubbo Regional Theatre on Sunday, 6 July, 2pm.
COUNCIL MEETING
Thursday, 17 July
Weddin Shire Council ordinarily meets at 5pm on the third Thursday of every month in the Council Chambers, located in its Administration Office.
It is during these meetings that councillors, with the assistance of executive staff, discuss, debate and make decisions on business set out in the meeting agenda. And it is open to the public.
COWRA WINE SHOW PUBLIC TASTING
Saturday, 19 July
Test your wine tasting skills against expert judges and sample some of the best wines from Australia’s top wine-growing regions. The wine judges take a week to sniff, taste and spit their way through over 900 wines during the Cowra Wine Show and Cowra Winter Wanderlust celebrations. Takes place at the Cowra Showground Pavillion, 6pm-9pm. Tickets $60.
CANOWINDRA ESKY BALL
Friday, 25 July, 5:30pm-11:30pm
tour dates for
Grab your group, pack the esky and help us raise some money for the show society to improve the annual show and maintain/ improve the facilities for years to come. Grazing boxes to start followed by delicious hot food from the Fat Parcel Food Van. K’nOath will having you rocking the night away. Tickets are $80.
BEER BREWING MASTER CLASS
Saturday, 26 July
Pursue your passion for brewing in a one day master class with Bulla Creek Brewing Co through Grenfell TAFE.
Learn how to produce quality craft beers, pale ales and dark ales. Learn different brewing tech-
niques, the fermentation process, how to bottle and keg your beer, as well as best practices for hygiene and sanitation.
Cost is $240 per person and includes cooking dry-aged ribs in a smoker for lunch and your own freshly brewed beer to take home. Express your interest and secure your place. Call Grenfell TAFE or 0438 138 950.
PAPER CUTS TOUR
Sunday, 31 August
One of the country’s most captivating and accomplished artists, Lyn Bowtell is bringing her ‘Paper Cuts’ tour to the Cordial Factory in Grenfell.
A 10-time Golden Guitar Award
winner, Toyota Star Maker cham pion, Mo Award recipient, and 2022 Hands of Fame inductee, Lyn has carved out a stellar solo career, releasing a string of critically acclaimed albums. With influences spanning Country, Blues, Jazz, and Pop, Lyn’s rich, emotive vocals and soul-stirring songwriting set her apart as a true musical force.
The live show runs from 5.30pm to 11.30pm, tickets are $45 and can be found on trybooking.com.
2025 GRENFELL SHOW
5 and 6 September
Planning is well and truly underway for the 2025 Grenfell Show.
The Grenfell PAH&I Association is so excited to be announcing some
tions soon.
In the meantime, if you would like to come along to help the committee, attend one of their monthly meetings at the Camp Street Office, visit their Facebook page that has regular updates or check out their website www.grenfellshow.com.au.
HAVE AN EVENT OR GATHERING COMING UP?
Would you like to get the word out on your upcoming event or gathering? Let us help you.
Share your event, gathering or meeting with the Grenfell community in this space by calling Brendan McCool on 0448 238 254 or email bmccool@midwestmedia.com.au
Free essential skills training for regional and rural women
Women across regional and rural New South Wales will soon have the opportunity to receive vital training in first aid and mental health support, thanks to a new initiative from the state government.
In partnership with St John Ambulance, the government is funding free workshops aimed at equipping up to 450 women with life-saving skills.
The program, known as the Rural Women’s Network Skills Roadshow, will deliver approximately 30 workshops across 15 regional locations including Cowra between May and November 2025.
The initiative comes amid concerning statistics: one-third of NSW adults have never received first aid training the highest proportion of any Australian state or territory. Confidence is also a concern, with just 44% of women saying they feel capable of providing first aid, compared to 57% of men.
The workshop will come to Cowra from 5-6 September.
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty highlighted the importance of the program in strengthening community resilience.
Backed by $90,000 in government funding and coordinated by the NSW Rural Women’s Network, the roadshow will provide training in first aid, mental health recognition, crisis response, and referral pathways for professional support.
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“It’s so important to equip rural and regional women with the first aid skills they need to be crucial first responders during an emergency,” she said.
“It can literally be the difference between life and death.”
Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said the program will bridge gaps in access to training for women who may be isolated by cost or distance.
“For the first time, women from Ballina to Broken Hill to Bega will have access to free first aid and mental health training,” she said.
“This is about more than skills, it’s about strengthening entire communities.”
Participants who complete the workshops will receive a nationally accredited certification.
The training is designed to be inclusive and practical, helping women feel confident responding to both physical emergencies and mental health crises.
Women interested in participating are encouraged to register for a course in their local area as spaces are limited.
To find out more about the roadshow and register for a course near you visit https:// www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/ women-nsw/rural-womens-network/rwnevents/rural-womens-network-skills-roadshow-2025
Courtney Gambrill 0448 248 080 cgambrill@midwestmedia.com.au www.grenfellrecord.com.au
Take part in a Beer Brewing Master Class through Grenfell TAFE on 26 July.
Cowra Wine Show public tasting is on at the Cowra Showground Pavillion on July 19.
Additional
the Good Old Days of Rock ‘n’ Roll concert have been announced for the Central West.
Trio take to skies to raise $100k
FIFTEEN days, more than 3880 kilometres, nine stops and one aircraft.
That’s the journey two farmers and a pharmacist will embark on in August for the 2025 Outback Air Race to raise vital money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS).
Forbes’ flying pharmacist Jack Buckley will join Brad Shephard, known as the Farmer from Downunder now based at Cowra, and Grenfell farmer John Johnson in the aviation event in August.
More than 40 teams will fly across the Australian outback, over two weeks, in support of the RFDS.
“As a healthcare professional I have incredible respect and admiration for the work of the Royal Flying Doctor Service - what they do is extraordinary,” Jack Buckley, managing partner of Flannery’s Pharmacy in Forbes, said.
“The RFDS is such an integral
part of healthcare delivery in outback Australia and having lived in Forbes for almost a decade now, I have seen the importance of this service firsthand.
“I’m really thrilled that we can be helping raise funds for them [the RFDS] this year.”
All three pilots helped residents across the region during the NSW flood crisis of November 2022, flying supplies to towns along the Lachlan River.
Together the trio is hoping to raise $100,000 for the RFDS.
“It is an ambitious goal but one we certainly think is achievable and worthwhile,” Jack said.
“All funds will go towards outfitting RFDS aircraft with essential medical equipment, vital for treating sick children and injured patients across Australia.”
Since its launch in 1996, the Outback Air Race has raised nearly $4 million.
The race is a time trial designed
to keep competition fair regardless of aircraft size or speed.
This year’s event starts in Yulara – near Uluru – and finishing in Canarvon WA, visiting Alice Springs, Daly Waters, Kununurra, Broome and other locations along the way.
It’s a trip the team is looking forward to.
John Johnson said he and Jack spoke about the opportunity when flying to Broken Hill last year.
“They only run this race every three years and we were talking about how great it’d be to go in it,” he said.
The team jumped online to register when nominations opened and within 24 hours the Air Race was over subscribed but the central west trio were in at team number 22.
“To see the country side from above is just amazing,” John said.
“It’s going to be in country that most people just never get to see.
“There’s a number of places we stay two nights – that allows them to catch up if the weather is bad, but allows us to have a look around.”
Capturing the incredible scenery from the air will of course be our third pilot Brad Shephard, whose footage and photos through Farmer From Down Under social media have been shared across the country over the past 10 years, as our region has battled flood and drought.
He’s known John for a while through years in the Rural Fire Service, and Jack through flying, and he too is looking forward to this adventure immensely.
You can follow the team on their travels through Outback Air Race with 3GenPharmers on social media, and donate towards their fundraising total.
You can also get tickets in their raffle with incredible prizes including:
Five hours flying lessons with Forbes Aero Club valued at $1100; Five nights accommodation for two at South Durras Big 4 Holiday Park valued at $1000; A Hello World Travel Voucher valued at $500; A 15 minute flight for four people with Orange Helicopters valued at $500.
“This is such an incredible opportunity for the three of us, it really is bucket list stuff,” Jack said.
“Brad, John and I have known each other for a few years now and have really bonded over our love of aviation. This race is something we’ve been keen to get involved with for some time and we can’t wait.”
The 2025 Outback Air Race takes place August 22 to September 8. Go online to https://outbackairrace. com.au/teams/ and select Team 22 - Flyin4phun to buy raffle tickets or donate online.
023 or rpowell@midwestmedia.com.au
TOS: Supplied
■ From front page Colby and his family have travelled to many shows since and mostly come away with great results.
Colby’s mum Anita said the best part is where his older fellow competitors take him under their wings and talks to him teaching how to better handle the poultry and what he can do better for his next shows.
“We love how the older poultry fanci ers take the younger generation under their wings helping to keep the poultry world alive,” Anita said.
Even when judges have asked ques tions about if he had help washing the hens from his mum, Colby has replied “no, she’s too lazy”.
Colby currently has a few different colours which his working on with his chickens, but the silver spangle are his great achievement at the moment.
Judges have different standards for different breeds of poultry given that are used for different things and cli-
PHOTOS: Supplied
mate. Bantam Hamburg are relatively new to the show and bred industry due to them been rare and only a few brought into Australia and mainly been developed from other breeds
Colby claims the family and family friend’s Sebastopol geese and call duck
so he has taken over them, though all of the chickens he raises are his.
Colby takes winning and losing with the same enthusiasm he is happy to just bring home a place card, and isn’t never upset if someone beats him at a show
His family say Colby is very easy going and just happy to bring his birds home, though he does get excited when he wins something different including the recent win last weekend at the Hamburgh Club of NSW Inc’s Peter Williams Memorial Show
At this show, Colby got champion junior bird of show under age of 17 yrs with a silver spangle Hamburg Bantam Cockerel that he bred from a line of birds he bred himself.
He will be returning to Dapto again this weekend for another show this weekend, which will be his last until the Grenfell Show.
Until then then he will concentrating on breeding next year’s winners and project bird.
Colby’s prizes from the Hamburgh Club of NSW.
Youth Council on the agenda
By BRENDAN MCCOOL
Weddin Shire Council has hosted their June ordinary monthly meeting on Thursday, 19 June where they discussed a motion moved by Councillor Wezley Makin that Council establishes a Junior Weddin Shire Council Advisory Committee comprising local youth aged 12-18 to provide insight into the interests, concerns and ideas of young people across the Shire.
After a lengthy discussion by Council, the motion was not passed.
Councillors saw merit in the motion, but hesitated to remove money from the roads budget to fund it.
Cr Makin said over the last few months they have been hosting workshops in regard to their 2035 plan with one of the main things established that youth are at the core.
Cr Makin said unfortunately there is an ageing demographic in the town and they should want the youth to make their ideas at the forefront of the town and be part of the decisions which affect the town moving forward.
“We want them to be a part of those decisions as well,” he said.
The vision for this Junior Weddin Shire Council Advisory Committee was a place where local students would be engaged in a platform where they can share their ideas, how they want the Weddin Shire to look and feel and be part of those collaborative decisions which affect the shire with the Council.
Cr Makin said this will start them on the journey to civic leadership, getting involved in local government organisations and potentially opening
up more funding platforms to engage with the youth in that area.
Councillor Chad White said he really supports the idea of a youth committee advisory group but his concerns are staffing and someone to guide the committee.
He said if this was to go ahead, there would need to be a position created within Council because policies and so forth need to be drawn up or drafted.
Cr White said as such this will cost money as well as creating that position such as a community engagement officer to run this program.
“I fell that we don’t have the population of youth that be interested to form the council or advisory group,” he said.
Cr White said if they want to see something for our youth, they need to have the community grow.
Within Council’s business papers, it was noted that Council is currently undertaking a recruitment for a Cadet Communications Officer who could provide some level of secretariat support once hired.
Council’s business papers highlighted that a budget allowance of up to $6,000 for three meetings a year will need to be utilised to subsidise the secretariat function, which could be taken from the road maintenance budget towards this trial for the 2025-26.
Cr White said he doesn’t believe it is a wise idea to take funding out of the roads as the roads are such a hot topic within the community.
“There is a lot of funding sources out there for youth activities and advisory groups and so forth.”
Weddin Shire Council’s
General Manager Noreen Vu said the $6000 was the staff recommendation, not from Cr Makin, and they don’t have a community service function within Council like other Councils do.
“In reality when you’ve got limited budget the roads budget is the biggest budget that Council manages so that was just where the recommendation came from,” she said.
Cr White said there is a lot that needs to be done with this youth advisory group or youth Council and this is something he has looked into many times to establish, but it is not something so easy to set up and run.
Cr White said while he supports the idea, he feels they need to do more work in the community to grow the community, grow the population to form such things.
Councillor Jan Parlett said she is always in favour of any youth initiatives but she does have hesitation with the allocation of $6000 from the roads, considering roads are a high priority throughout the community.
Cr Parlett said they had
something in the past similar to this, where the Cowra Neighbourhood Central staff through Interagency did develop a youth group organisation on Council and they did start discos and events such as that for the local youth.
However, this was discontinued once they were unable to keep coming over.
Cr Parlett said the Health Council has tried many times to get a young person on as a Council representative, but that has been problematic.
Cr Parlett said maybe as a way forward, they already have with The Henry Lawson High School a student representative council who Council might already be able to connect with to do surveys or gauge the interest.
She said they can also tap into the local primary schools to get their inputs and find their insights on whether they would be willing to join or take part.
Councillor Colleen Gorman said she can see the merit of what the motion is trying to do, but takes issue to the fact it would take money from the
roads funding, which would cause probably cause a lot of angst in the community as a lot of people are fighting for the roads to be improved.
Cr Gorman said speaking as someone who has been a teacher for many years and with a history of working with the high school’s SRC and their events, the older kids would definitely have a lot of value to contribute and they would also have the skills and the big picture information to deal with the responsibility of the position.
However, Cr Gorman said with the younger students, over the years it was difficult to run it as an inclusive meeting with a lot of input from them.
Cr Gorman said there is a lot of value the younger students could add and a lot of students with abilities who would really benefit with something like this, but perhaps starting with an older group.
“But the biggest problem is most of those kids, especially the captains, have a lot of responsibility within the school and they’re also starting to be very focused on their life
beyond school and a the big deal for a lot of them is getting the marks for the career they eventually wanted to get into, particularly if they’re looking at university education,” Cr Gorman said.
Cr Gorman said they probably need to have it really sorted out before they attempt implementing the Junior Weddin Shire Council Advisory Committee.
Cr Makin said growing up in Grenfell and working in the education sector, something like this would be quite beneficial, citing the skate park which had been driven by the local youth.
He said these sorts of initiatives are not so much a social aspect, it is a learning tool for students to be active participants in the town.
Cr Makin said they have seen a decline in junior sport and other areas within the town where junior participation has dropped and he thinks it is important they need to refocus some aspect of Council’s outlook in ensuring junior participants within the shire are included in big things like the Festival and what’s important in the shire and what is important to them.
“We have been fortunate enough that a lot of people with children have moved to this town,” Cr Makin said.
“We want to give them a reason to stay and make their children a part of our Weddn Shire as much as possible.”
“It’s not just Grenfell it’s the villages as well to get them involved in what’s important to their village as well,” he said Cr Makin said as Ms Vu said the $6000 from the roads was just a figure they could fit within the budget and it’s not to take away from anywhere else.
Grenfell records lowest June temperature in six years
While the wintery weather has yet to fully settle into Grenfell, the Bureau of Meterology has recorded Grenfell’s lowest June temperature since 2019.
Friday, 20 June saw a low of -3.6 according to observa-
tions taken from the station located on Manganese Road.
This is just shy of Grenfell’s coldest June temperature since 2019, which saw the mercury drop to -3.8 degrees.
Last Friday’s low temp led to a weekend of chilly low
temperatures with Saturday, 21 June seeing a low of -3.3 and Sunday, 22 June seeing a low of -2.4. However all three of these days saw relatively warm maximum temperatures at 15.5 degrees, 17 degrees and 18.3 degrees respectively.
Pictured right: Grenfell saw a frosty end to Friday, as temperatures dropped to -3.6.
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The warmest the month got to this year was on June 1 where the temperature reached 19.9 degrees. Since then, the temperature has remained relatively mild, with the maximum daily temperatures reaching between 9.4 degrees to 18.6 degrees.
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PHOTO: Phillip McCallum
Council discussed establishing a Junior Weddin Shire Council Advisory Committee comprising local youth.
PHOTO: Weddin Shire Council
WEDDIN SHIRE COUNCIL
CAMP STREET, GRENFELL NSW 2810 PHONE: 6343 1212
Wednesday 2 July 2025 - Garbage Collection | Villages
DATES TO NOTE
Wednesday 2 July 2025 - SERVICE NSW | Come and talk to a savings specialist
Friday 4 July 2025 - Recycling Collection | East
Monday 7 July 2025 - Recycling Collection | West
Wednesday 9 July 2025 - Recycling Collection | Villages
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.
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 | SERVICE
NSW
Come and talk to a Savings Specialist at Council’s Administration Building on Wednesday 2 July 2025 between 10:00am and 2:00pm; no appointment necessary. Service NSW can help you access savings, rebates and
NSW Government Services including:
• Active and Creative Kids Vouchers
• Energy Rebates
• Transport and Driving Concessions
• NSW Seniors Card
• NSW Senior Savers Card
• Fee-Free Apprenticeships
• Pension Travel Vouchers and more.
PUBLIC NOTICE | SAFETY STARTS AT HOME – PREVENT DOG ATTACKS
Know the signs, prevent dog attacks. Any dog can bite, regardless of its size, age or breed.
Young children are most at risk from dog attacks, especially those aged 0 – 4. Most dog attacks happen at home, or in familiar environments.
Supervise or Separate
To reduce the risk of dog bites, actively supervise your children and dogs, or keep them separated.
Children and Adults should:
• Pat a dog’s side, not its head
• Never hug a dog around the neck as some dogs find it overwhelming
• Be gentle when playing. Rough place can excite or scare a dog
• Give dogs alone time. Never bother a dog when it’s eating, sleeping or caring for puppies
• Never stare intensely at a dog. They can interpret this as threatening behaviour.
Further information can be found at: https://wearefamily.nsw.gov.au/thefacts.html
ROAD WORKS NOTICE | NOWLANS ROAD
Weddin Shire Council wishes to advise that upgrade works on Nowlans Road will continue from Grimms Lane, Bimbi for a further 1 km towards Bimbi Forest NSW from July 2025 and are scheduled for completion at the end of September 2025.
This project is part of the NSW Governments Fixing Local Roads Program (FLRP), which now totals a road length of 7km. The additional works primarily include upgrades to existing drainage lines and formations within the road reserve, tree maintenance, road resheeting, signage and guidepost maintenance, culvert and drainage upgrades/maintenance.
These works are being carried out under a road closure on Nowlans Road, with access restricted to residents only. Visitors are requested to avoid this road unless in case of an emergency. The closure will remain in place for the full duration of the works. The Work will be undertaken between 7.00am and 5.00pm (Monday to Friday). All nearby residents will be able to access their properties during the closure, with traffic control in place to assist. The work area will be clearly marked with traffic signage for safety. Noise and dust disturbances may occur due to construction activities; however, every effort will be made to minimise the impact on residents. 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
SERVICE NSW | CURRENT OPENING HOURS
Council wishes to advise the current opening hours for Service NSW are:
Tuesday: 8:30am - 12:30pm & 1:30pm - 4:00pm
Wednesday: 8:30am - 12:30pm & 1:30pm - 4:00pm
Thursday:
8:30am - 12:30pm & 1:30pm - 4:00pm
Friday:
8:30am - 12:30pm & 1:30pm - 4:00pm
Please note Council staff are currently being trained by Service NSW. Please be patient whilst our staff are in training. Service NSW
operational hours will revert to Monday to Friday in the near future.
The Council Cashier is open Monday to Friday from 8:30am - 12:30pm & 1:30pm - 4:00pm.
PUBLIC NOTICE | WEEKEND WORK @ TAYLOR PARK
The redevelopment of Taylor Park is progressing well, with several key features already taking shape. Community members may have noticed the construction of new accessible pathways, the establishment of picnic areas, and the early installation of the inclusive playground equipment.
A feature of the playground is the addition of 22 story poles, each uniquely designed and hand-painted by local school students, talented community artists, Aunty Julie and Kim from the Touched by Olivia Foundation. These poles celebrate creativity, inclusion, stories of Weddin and community spirit.
Further updates will be provided as the project continues.
Weddin Shire Council advises residents that construction works could take place on weekends in Taylor Park over the next two months. 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
YOUR WEDDIN SHIRE COUNCILLORS
FROM THE MAYOR’S DESK
Council at the 19 June 2025 Council Meeting has resolved to go to market shortly on the recruitment of a new General Manager. We also resolved to appoint Mr Luke Sheehan as Acting General Manager while we go out to market for the new General Manager. This week is the last week for Ms Noreen Vu as General Manager and Luke will be acting from next Monday 30 June 2025.
At this Council meeting, Council resolved to adopt the various strategic documents that will be now available on Council’s website.
The Weddin 2035 Community Strategic Plan sets our vision for the next ten years. Staff also provided additional scenarios to the Long Term Financial Plan (LTFP) and Councillors were provided a comprehensive workshop on the various documents that we considered last week. Council is required to model conservative, planned and optimistic scenarios in the LTFP. As a small Council it is difficult for us to separate out what is planned and what is conservative, given we are conservative with our expenditure which has put Council into a strong position at the end of this financial year. Optimistic scenarios are a requirement by the NSW Government in all councils LTFP and in this we modelled two approaches in relation to rates and fees and charges. I must reiterate that these are modelled scenarios because we are required to do so. And it is good to see the different scenarios play out across the ten years and show case what will have an impact on Council’s bottom line. I encourage you to hop online to look at these documents.
I am currently away in Canberra attending the National General Assembly of Local Government with Deputy Mayor Colleen Gorman, Cr Simon Rolls and Council’s Director - Corporate Services Kathryn Brock. I look forward to the tabling of our delegates’ report back to Council on this meeting and forum.
Have a great week, stay warm.
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
Ben Hall play back by popular demand
The Trial of Ben Hall will be back by popular demand in August.
May 2025 marked 160 years since the bushranger’s death and the Forbes Shire Council Heritage Advisory Committee was inspired to mark the occasion with the performance of a unique local play.
Ben Hall was of course shot dead without a trial and is buried at Forbes Cemetery.
Then local solicitor Dominic Williams wrote The Trial of Ben Hall for the inaugural Ben Hall Festival, and it was rewritten for Law Week in 1986.
Mr Williams said he hoped it would entertain and educate about Ben 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,” he wrote in 1986.
When the play was brought back to the stage this year, the onenight-only performance by local volunteers booked out within 24 hours.
On the night, it was a hit.
Now the Forbes Shire Council Heritage Advisory Committee will present the play again on Saturday 2 August and Sunday 3 August.
Everyone is encouraged to come along and find out the imagined past if Ben Hall had been given a trial and discover more about our notorious Mr Hall, who was in fact the first person in Australia to be
declared a bushranger.
The audience is encouraged to fully participate in the evening: to react to the good and the bad, to the police bias and inequity in the court process.
Jurors will be selected from the audience on the evening of the performance so please dress appropriately - period costume is ideal.
No one knows the outcome of the judgment until the night - the cast has prepared for both guilty and not guilty findings.
The play will be presented in the former St Andrews Church at 5pm on the Saturday, and 11am on the Sunday.
Tickets $10 or $5 for pensioners, online through www.123tix.com. au
Cooke calls for budget investment across rural communities
As the NSW Government prepares to hand down its third State Budget, Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has called for urgent and overdue investment in rural communities across her electorate.
Ms Cooke said that for the past two years, regional and rural areas have been left behind when it comes to funding for vital infrastructure and services.
“Residents in my electorate have had little to celebrate these past few years at budget time,” Ms Cooke said.
“This year, rural taxpayers are
hoping that third time’s a charm.”
Spanning approximately 40,000 square kilometres, the Cootamundra electorate includes an extensive road network that underpins the movement of freight, students, and patients.
Ms Cooke said every meeting with local councils raises concerns about road funding.
“These are not just any roads, they are critical freight routes, school transport corridors, and emergency access roads,” she said.
“The William Bradford Bridge, between Wallendbeen and Harden, is one example.
“It’s a known crash hotspot, and despite a safety assessment and multiple incidents, it remains untouched.
“We need to see it funded in this year’s budget.”
Health infrastructure is also being sought, with Ms Cooke highlighting the dire situation at Grenfell’s Multipurpose Service, where nine bed licences remain inactive due to a lack of State Government funding.
“Grenfell’s population is ageing, with one in three people expected to be over 70 by 2031.”
“Yet residents are being sent to
Cowra, 40 minutes away, due to a lack of local aged-care beds.
“That’s not good enough.”
She added that the CoolamonGanmain MPS, a $56 million hospital project which has long been supported by the NSW Coalition, also remains unfunded.
Access to clean and secure drinking water remains another critical issue, with Ms Cooke urging renewed investment in the Safe and Secure Water Program.
“Communities like Narrandera can’t afford to keep holding their breath every time they turn on a tap.
“Others, like Boorowa, need certainty ahead of future droughts.”
“But this Government hasn’t put new money into the program in two years.”
A focus on drought resilience and preparedness is also being sought, following the slow government response to developing drought conditions in southern NSW earlier this year.
“Our agriculture industry needs support including transport subsidies for feed and water,” she said.
“This Budget must prove that rural communities matter just as much as those in the city.”
Lewis Wilde as Ben Hall is led into the “courtroom” in the first performance of The Trial of Ben Hall.
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
4 Name a prized fine wool (6)
7 What is a crack, gap, or other opening (8)
8 What is a sculptured image of a person (6)
9 Which crystallised violet quartz is used in jewellery (8)
11 What are facial expressions (7)
13 Which oil is used in making paints (7)
15 Name a short cord for securing something (7)
17 Name a tall, long-necked, spotted ruminant (7)
20 Which chair has arms that support elbows (8)
23 What is a tonsorial artist (6)
24 Which steroid hormone promotes masculine characteristics (8)
25 To decapitate, is to do what (6)
DOWN
1 What is junk mail, sent via the email (4)
2 Which term implies that something is free of cost (6)
3 What is a moral obligation (4)
4 When one encounters someone, one does what (5)
5 Name a champion Australian tennis player, Patrick ... (6)
6 What do we call the hours of darkness (5)
9 To be affected with pain, is to be what (6)
10 What might we call one who deals in leather (7)
12 Name an eight-legged predatory arachnid (6)
14 What, perhaps, describes the hoi polloi (6)
16 What are rough, coarse, or uncouth persons (6)
18 To be silly, is to be what (5)
Letters have a number value
Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
E-QUATIONS
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
19 Name the unit of electrical capacity (5)
21 Which term describes a method (4)
22 When one chills something, one does 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
(b)
(c)
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:
Afro-American musical form (5)
Board of Studies (3)
Break apart (5)
Determined (3)
Drags vessel ashore (5)
Fifth note (3)
Multiplies by two (7)
Six (comb.Form) (3)
Spiral (5)
Weaknesses of character (7)
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. McKell Cup Day, Caulfield Winter Race Day and Tattersall’s Tiara Raceday. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 7.30 MOVIE: Ford V Ferrari. (2019) Matt Damon, Christian Bale. 10.40 MOVIE: Baby Driver. (2017) 1.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Shopping. 8.30 Better Homes. 11.00 Harry’s Practice. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Escape To The Country. 3.00 Better Homes. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 6.00 Every Bite Takes You Home. New. 6.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 1.30 My Greek Odyssey. 2.30 Creek To Coast. 3.00 Weekender. 3.30 Late Programs.
6.30 Australian Story. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Grantchester. Return. 9.05 Bay Of Fires. 10.00 Little Disasters. 10.50 David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef. 11.50 Rage. 6.00 Kids’ Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Drag Racing. NDRC Nitro Funny Cars. Nitro Champs. 4.00 Storage Wars: Barry’s Best Buys. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 Pawn Stars. 9.30 American Pickers. 10.30 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Destination WA. 12.30 Drive Launch Pad: Driven By Design. 1.00 Great Australian Detour. 1.30 Find My Country House Aust. 2.30 LEGO Masters: Grand Masters Of The Galaxy. Final. 4.00 Explore TV. 4.30 Cirque Du Soleil’s Corteo: From State To Arena. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: Barbie. (2023) 9.50 MOVIE: Crazy, Stupid, Love. (2011) 12.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 Ed And Karen’s Recipes For Success. 12.30 Wife Swap Australia. 2.00 Australia’s Cheapest Weddings. 3.00 Zumbo’s Just Desserts. 4.00 Jabba’s Movies School Holiday Special. 4.30 Dodger. 5.30 MOVIE: Vivo. (2021) 7.30 MOVIE: 50 First Dates. (2004) 9.30 MOVIE: Never Been Kissed. (1999) 11.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.10 GCBC. 12.30 The Brighter Side: Save. Grow. Dream. 1.00 Roads Less Travelled. 1.30 The Yes Experiment. 2.00 Start Me Up. New. 2.30 Food Trail: South Africa. 3.00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 3.30 Farm To Fork. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 Everyday Gourmet. 5.00 News. 6.30
Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 8.55 Anne Edmonds: What’s Wrong With You? 10.00 The IT Crowd. 11.10 ER. 11.55 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Motor Racing. Hi-Tec Oils Super Series. 5.00
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.00 Helping Hands. 10.30 My Favorite Martian. 11.00 Skippy. 11.30 Edgar Wallace Mysteries. 12.50 Avengers. 2.10 MOVIE: I’m All Right Jack. (1959) 4.20 MOVIE: It’s A Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World. (1963) 7.30 MOVIE: King Arthur: Legend Of The Sword. (2017) 10.00 MOVIE: Lethal Weapon 3. (1992) 12.25 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Australia. 2.30 Joanna Lumley’s Danube. 3.15 Nigella Bites. 3.40 Martin Clunes: Islands Of America. 4.40 Walking With Dinosaurs. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. 6.30 Compass. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Spicks And Specks. 8.00 Bay Of Fires. 8.55 Little Disasters. 9.45 MOVIE: The Tracker. (2002) David Gulpilil. 11.20 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. 11.45 Late Programs. 6.00 Kids’ Programs. 2.30 Mister Maker Around The World. 3.00 Play School. 3.35 Daniel Tiger’s. 4.20 Dino Dex. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Daniel Tiger’s.
ARIES (March 21 to
AFN. 1.00 Fishing Addiction. 2.00 Fishy Business. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 16. Richmond v Adelaide. 6.00 The Wash Up. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: Deadpool 2. (2018)
Fishing Australia. 1.30 Business Drive. 2.00 Ski Rescue Down Under. 3.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 17. Gold Coast Titans v North Queensland Cowboys. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Travel Guides. 8.30 60 Minutes. 9.30 The Wrong Man: 17 Years Behind Bars. 10.50 9News Late. 11.20 The First 48. 12.10 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 7.30 In Touch. 8.00 Beyond Today. 8.30 The Incredible Journey. 9.00 Turning Point. 9.30 TV Shop. 10.00 AFL Sunday Footy Show. 12.00 Getaway. 12.30 MOVIE: Mutiny On The Buses. (1972) 2.30 MOVIE: War Drums. (1957) 4.00 MOVIE: The 7th Dawn. (1964) 6.30
The Closer. 12.00 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Get Arty. 10.00 Jordie, Sam & Ted’s Adventures. 10.40 Behave Yourself. 11.50 Australia’s Cheapest Weddings. 1.00 Baking It. 2.00 Home And Away. 3.45 Dancing With The Stars. 5.30 Extreme Animal Transport. 6.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) A shift in your workplace responsibilities creates resentment among some co-workers. Deal with it before it becomes a threat to your success on the job.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Move forward with your plans, despite discouraging words from those who underestimate the Bovine’s strong will. Your keen instincts will guide you well.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) A misunderstanding is easily cleared up. Then go ahead and enjoy some fun and games this week! Meanwhile, a Libra might have ideas that merit serious consideration for the future.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) You might feel as if you’re in an emotional pressure cooker, but the situation is about to change in your favor. Take time out for some well-earned fun!
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Expect some surprises in what you thought was one of your typically well-planned schedules. Deal with them, then enjoy some lighthearted entertainment.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Be careful: What appears to be a solid financial opportunity might have some hidden risks attached. In addition, a hazy personal matter needs to be cleared up.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) It’s a good time to strengthen ties with family and friends.
More delay in accused murderer’s case
By STEPHANIE GARDINER, AAP
Molly Ticehurst’s family and friends have gathered in hope of seeing her accused murderer face court, only for his case to be delayed again.
Daniel Billings, 30, was due to face Parkes Local Court on Friday morning, charged with the domestic violence murder of Ms Ticehurst.
During a brief mention in May, Magistrate Michael Maher ordered Billings to appear in court via audio-visual link for a committal.
It would have been the first time Billings, who is in custody in the supermax wing of
Goulburn jail, has appeared since June 2024.
But as Ms Ticehurst’s parents and a large group of relatives and friends watched on from the small public gallery, the court was told Billings would not appear and the matter was adjourned until August.
Deputy senior crown prosecutor Lee Carr SC and Billings’ Legal Aid solicitor Diane Elston briefly discussed a subpoena.
Ms Ticehurst, a 28-yearold childcare educator, was found dead in her home at Forbes in the NSW central west in the early hours of
April 22, 2024.
Billings, her former boyfriend, is charged with her domestic violence murder, along with 16 other offences.
He had been freed on bail by a local court registrar a fortnight before the alleged murder on charges related to Ms Ticehurst, including three counts of sexual intercourse without consent.
Billings was also charged with four counts of stalking and intimidating her, destroying her property and aggravated animal cruelty against her 12-week-old dachshund puppy in 2023.
Parkes courthouse Daniel
Billings’ case returns to court on August 15. (Stephanie Gardiner/AAP PHOTOS)
Four more serious charges, including one count of aggravated sexual assault, were laid in December 2024.
Legal documents before the court accused Billings of threatening to cause Ms Ticehurst further physical harm during the alleged aggravated sexual assault.
Billings has not entered pleas.
Ms Ticehurst’s death intensified a national campaign against domestic and gendered violence.
The movement sparked
changes to NSW laws, including stripping registrars of the power to grant bail, “show cause” thresholds for domestic violence-related bail applications and electronic monitoring for accused people.
Billings’ case returns to court on August 15.
Support
are
Average dwelling price reaches $1 million across state
If you thought buying a home across our region was expensive, spare a thought for our city cousins, facing average home prices well into the millions.
The total value of Australia’s residential dwellings rose by $130.7 billion (1.2 per cent) to $11.4 trillion in the March quarter 2025, according to figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
Dr Mish Tan, ABS head of finance statistics, said despite the rise, growth has slowed in housing prices.
“The national mean price of residential dwellings passed $1 million for the first time in the March quarter 2025, rising 0.7 per cent to $1,002,500. Western Australia, South Australia and Queensland were the main drivers of the rise, with Queensland reaching the second highest mean price in Australia, be-
50b Kendal Street Cowra, NSW, 2794
hind New South Wales,” Dr Tan said.
“Despite the quarterly rise in national dwelling value, annual growth in the March quarter slowed to 5.9 per cent. This was down from 9.5 per cent in March quarter 2024.”
Quarterly growth was seen across all states and territories, and most evident in Queensland (+1.9 per cent) and South Australia (+1.6 per cent).
In Cowra, home prices have risen by nearly 2 per cent in the previous year, reaching an average price of $385,000 for a three-bedroom home, or $525,000 for a four-bedroom home. In Young, the time on the market for a three bedroom home is less than half of that in Cowra, at 40 days, with an average price of $450,000, and $550,000 for a four-bedroom house.
Forbes sat firmly in the middle for the re-
02 6342 1044
SHONE, Esma.
3/5/1933 – 13/6/2025 Formerly of Grenfell. Passed away peacefully on June 13, 2025 at Grenfell. Aged 92 years. Adored wife of Bill (dec). Cherished mother of Steve (dec), Will, Trevor, Zell and Nerida.
The family wish to advise that there was a private service on June 25, 2025 in Canberra.
6342
gion, with an average 99 days on market for a three-bedroom home, and eclipsing Cowra’s 113 day wait on four-bedrooms, with a 124 days on the market in Forbes. A three-bedroom home in Forbes would set buyers back a median $360,000, or $608,000 for a fourbedroom house.
Further west to Parkes, four-bedroom homes spent an average of 150 days on the market, selling for a median price of $523,000, where three-bedroom houses sold for $415,000. The larger auction market also revealed an average clearance rate of 45 per cent, and 54 per cent for respective homes.
A total of 15 homes were sold in Canowindra in the last twelve months, too small to record a median price, Boorowa also saw 15 homes change hands. Grenfell saw 17 homes sold over the same period, along with one
unit.
According to Domain Group’s latest Price Forecast Report, home prices are set to climb even higher in the year ahead, putting more pressure on already stretched budgets. Domain’s Chief of Research and Economics Dr Nicola Powell warned continued growth could push more young Australians out of the market entirely.
“The latest data is a reality check for many – if you’re trying to break into the property market, the next year could be your toughest challenge yet, ” Dr Powell said.
“While interest rate cuts and government support may offer some help, they’re also likely to keep prices rising, especially in Sydney and Melbourne, where the market is more sensitive to rate changes.
services
available: 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). Lifeline 13 11 14. Men’s Referral Service 1300 766 491
Family and friends of Molly Ticehurst gathered at Parkes court on Friday 20 June. PHOTO: File
Supporters thrilled with win by Andale
By COLIN HODGES
Making yet another comeback after being badly injured, Kath Bell-Pitomac thrilled her many supporters with a brilliant ride to win aboard Andale on Monday at Narromine,
The 42 year old mother of 2 teenagers who has suffered seemingly career ending injuries on several occasions, had her most recent win over 12 months ago on the Cindy Monaghan, Dubbo trained Friendly Sizzle at Quirindi.
Dubbo trainer Merv Rumble who has always been a staunch supporter of Kath
Bell-Pitomac prepares Andale which was strapped at Narromine by Kath’s husband Daniel Pitomac who retired as a jockey when seriously injured.
Andale, a lightly raced 3 year old gelding, drew the outside barrier in a big field contesting the 1300 metres Narromine USMC Country Boosted Maiden Plate.
Heavily supported from $3.10 to $2.70 favourite, Andale was quickly away under Kath Bell- Pitomac and crossed to the early lead.
Maintaining the tempo, Andale led throughout to score by over two lengths
from the fast finishing Major Lightning (Siena Grima, $2.80) and Saint Philomena (Kody Nestor, $10).
Half brothers Brummagen and Bylong both bred from the mare Letyahairhangdown by Dr Bob and Mrs Jean Slacksmith and trained by Brett Thompson, had widely differing fortunes in the first and penultimate events respectively, at Narromine.
In the race named in honour of very successful jockey and trainer Wayne Collison from Narromine, who is retiring, Brummagen (Jake Pracey-Holmes, $4.40 to $3.20) hit the front at the top
of the straight in the 800 metres The Wayne Collison Well Earned Spell Maiden Plate and won by over a length from Miss Karis (Clayton Gallagher, $2.60 favourite) and the leader Parissident (Kody Nestor, $8.50).
Approaching the final 100
metres of the 1100 metres QUBE Agri Benchmark 58 Handicap, Bylong $5.50) racing in the centre of a packed field unfortunately came down with Clayton Gallagher having a a heavy fall.
The horse galloped off appearing uninjured while Clayton Gallagher was transported to hospital with suspected fractures.
From near last, the Paul Clisby, Dubbo trained Midnight Dream (Siena Grima, $12) steamed down the outside to beat Champers Girl (Zoe Hunt, $4.80 favourite) and Dupenny (Jake PraceyHolmes, $5.50).
In addition to Paul Clisby and Merv Rumble other Dubbo trainers with winners were Clint Lundholm (My Boy Scout, Kody Nestor, $5), Brett Robb (West Head, Jordan Quince, $2.10 favourite) and Michael Mulholland (Kranich, Chad Lever, $3.40). The other winner was Super Sioux (Izzy Neale, $4.40) trained by Melissa Dennett at Tamworth.
Narromine will next race with the Gold Cup meeting on Sunday 24 August.
Meanwhile, the Dubbo meeting on Sunday features the Final of the Dubbo RSL Club Winter Country Classic.
Grenfell Kart Club ready to welcome karts back with track re-opening
After several years of hard work on the Bogolong track, the Grenfell Kart Club will be ready to welcome back racers from this weekend, with practise runs opening Saturday 28 June and Sunday 29 June.
Works on the track have been ongoing for several years with extensive works undertaken including works to the existing circuit, reconstruction and resurfacing of the existing track surface, a 160m track extension and construction of a new start/finish straight.
The Grenfell Record looks forward to bringing the full story about the reopening of Grenfell Kart Club’s track in future editions.
On Sunday, Forbes’ Botanical Gardens host 85 junior soccer sides from the region including Bathurst to Dubbo, Wagga Wagga and Goulburn. PHOTO: File
Hundreds on way for Forbes soccer gala day
Forbes District Soccer Club will host its Annual Youth Gala Day on Sunday 29 June, welcoming 85 teams and more than 180 games across 11 fields, with matches kicking off from 7.30am.
A major highlight of the day will be the official opening of the new Youth Strength and Conditioning Gym at midday. This state-of-the-art facility is the first of its kind at a community soccer club in Australia, designed specifically for junior athletes with a focus on lower body development, core strength, and explosive leg work. The gym has been two years in the making and was made possible through funding from the
NSW Government’s Football Legacy Infrastructure Grant, Forbes Shire Council, and Forbes District Soccer Club.
It will be officially opened by special guests and players during this Sunday’s big game day. It is part of a broader upgrade that includes a new canteen, female-compliant referee room, and refurbished office and storage areas. The gala day will bring together players and families from across regional NSW, with teams travelling from Leeton, Griffith, Hanwood, Young, Orange, Bathurst, Dubbo, Wagga Wagga, Goulburn and more making this one of the largest junior soccer gatherings in the state.
Sporting codes join forces to tackle domestic violence
The NSW Government has joined forces with sporting organisations across the state to launch a new multisport coalition aimed at preventing domestic, family, and sexual violence.
Backed by over $500,000 in funding over the next three years, the Coalition represents a united front between government, sporting codes, and advocacy groups to use the power of sport to drive cultural change and promote gender equality.
The initiative was officially announced last week and is part of the NSW Government’s broader commitment to primary prevention under its Strategy for the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence 2024–2028. The strategy, launched last year, outlines a vision to address the root causes of violence through early intervention across all sectors of the community including sport.
The Coalition brings together professional clubs, State Sporting Organisations, and key industry stakeholders to promote respectful behaviour and challenge harmful attitudes.
Its work will be guided by NSW Women’s Safety Commissioner Dr Hannah
Tonkin, alongside national violence prevention organisation Our Watch CEO Patty Kinnersly and Sport NSW CEO Stuart Hodge.
Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said the collaboration highlights the vital role of sport in community leadership.
“Sport is part of the fabric of communities across NSW,” Minister Kamper said. “We’re sending a clear message: there is no place for domestic, family or sexual violence in our society.”
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison echoed the importance of the partnership.
“Sporting codes stepping up like this sends a strong message that violence against women is unacceptable,” she said.
“Through initiatives like this, we can help shift community attitudes and make our state safer for women and children.”
Dr Hannah Tonkin emphasised the reach and influence of sport in shaping social norms.
“This scourge cannot be addressed by government alone.
“The Multi-Sport Coalition is a valu-
able opportunity to mobilise communities and help end domestic, family, and sexual violence,” she said.
Several high-profile sporting organisations have already signed on, including the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Western Sydney Wanderers.
“There is no place in society for this violence,” said Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly. “We are proud to support this powerful initiative.”
“Football has the power to unite and to lead by example,” added Wanderers CEO Scott Hudson.
“We’re proud to stand with our peers and government in this critical effort.”
The Coalition will launch a suite of initiatives over the coming years, aimed at raising awareness, educating communities, and fostering respectful relationships both on and off the field.
The initiative is part of a broader $38 million package in the 2024/25 NSW Budget dedicated to statewide primary prevention efforts.
Community members and sporting fans alike are encouraged to follow the progress of the Coalition and support its message of respect, inclusion, and zero tolerance for violence.
Explosive speed football clinic coming to region
Rugby Speed is running their popular Explosive Speed for Footy Players clinic in Forbes on Saturday 12 July – designed specifically for Rugby, League, Touch and OzTag players aged 8–14
This clinic focuses on building real footy speed with
drills made just for footy players – not just general fitness.
It’s high-energy, heaps of fun, and packed with takehome skills to keep improving after the clinic.
Unlike standard Speed and Agility clinics, all of the drills, exercises, and lessons during
this clinic are designed specifically for footy players.
This approach will help players improve their footy game.
The price is $66 per player, with very limited Early-Bird tickets available for a discounted rate of $55.
The high-energy practical clinic runs for two hours at the Red Bend Junior Rugby League Club. For more information and to register, head online to https://www.rugbyspeedcoach. com/holiday-clinics-rugbyspeed-coach
Col Hodges. PHOTO: File
Pictured right: After a few years of hard work, the Bogolong track will soon be re-opened - and doesn’t it look fantastic.
PHOTO: Karting NSW Facebook
Students make their mark
By TAMARA MCMAHON
This year’s Grenfell Public School athletics carnival was filled with excitement and remarkable achievements, but two standout students, Arthur Bateman and Harry Radnedge, have made headlines for their record-breaking performances.
Arthur, a talented Year 3 athlete, broke the 9-year boys 100m record, which had stood since 2009, with an impressive time of 15.88 seconds.
Reflecting on his accomplishment, Arthur said, “I was shocked really, I was proud to bring a record back to our family. My dad used to have this record and he still holds the record for the 200m,” he said.
Despite his incredible success, Arthur remains humble about his training.
“Not really. I just like to play footy and other sports,” he admitted.
However, it wasn’t just the 100m that brought him joy; he also took first places in other events including the long jump and is excited to represent his school in six events at the district level.
Arthur credits his speed to his family, saying he thinks he get his speed from his dad, who made it to state, and his mum, who was also a really fast runner and good at basketball.
“My legs were shaking but I didn’t really feel nervous,” Arthur said, when asked about his pre-race nerves.
He enjoys the thrill of running and takes pride in being able to represent his school. Looking forward, he expressed his eagerness to help his relay team win at the district carnival.
Harry, a Year 4 student, made waves in the junior boys’ 1500m race by breaking the previous record set in 2019.
“I was thinking I wasn’t sure if I’d win. I had a goal to break a long-distance record. It made me feel like I shouldn’t give up and to keep going,” he explained.
Despite facing challenges, including cramps during the race, Harry’s determination propelled him to victory.
“It felt very very good. I was very proud of myself,” he shared.
Harry’s training routine includes running around the block and playing sports like soccer and rugby. He draws inspiration from athletes such as Nedd Brockmann, who famously ran across Australia, and American sprinter Noah Lyles.
The athletics carnival proved to be full of surprises for Harry as well.
“I didn’t think I would win as many events and make it to district for so many things,” he said, reflecting on his unexpected success.
To younger students aspiring to excel in athletics, Harry advises to probably train and one of the main things to do is to have fun.
Congratulations to these young athletes on their record-breaking performances!
Girlannas have strongly fought win
By GARY HOLMES
Last Saturday the First Grade and League Tag teams travelled out to Oberon to take on the Tigers in what could only be described as balmy winter conditions.
Unfortunately, the Youth League boys had to forfeit their match to Manildra on Sunday with numbers depleted due to injuries and work commitments.
Following are the match reports from Saturday.
LEAGUE TAG
This match was crucial for both teams as their top eight aspirations were hanging in the balance.
Oberon came out of the blocks first and scored two early unconverted tries in front of a big local crowd.
Saturday was a big day for the Oberon club as they had a full day of footy including their juniors and their annual CanAssist Charity Round.
The Girlannas fought back through two smart individual tries to Chelsea Harveyson and then a long-range effort from Zoe Gavin.
Grenfell held a handy 16-8 lead at half-time, but they took control of the match in the 10 minutes after the break via two long distance converted tries to Faith Smith and Marley Loader.
The final 20 minutes saw the Tigers hammer Grenfell’s line and it eventually paid dividends with a try in the final minute of play.
Emily Brenner kicked four goals from five attempts and the final score read Grenfell 28 Oberon 12.
Best for Grenfell were Marley Loader, Ella McRae (Player’s Player), Chelsea Harveyson, Emily Brenner, and Faith Smith.
FIRST GRADE
The Goannas were up against it from the “get go” in this match only having 13 players turn up to play the form team of the competition on their home turf and on one of their biggest days of the year.
Grenfell made a contest of it in the first half and went to the break down by 24-4, their try coming from a Michael Smith cutout pass to Jaxon Greenaway who scored out wide.
Although the floodgates opened in the second half this was a gutsy effort by the Goannas as they had no bench and several players stayed out on the field whilst injured.
An indication of the dominance of Oberon in the second half was that in the 30 minutes after the break Grenfell held the ball for a grand total of 9 tackles and this included one set of 6.
Final score Oberon 66 Grenfell 4.
This was a big effort by the entire 13 players, but special mention goes to Isaac Jones, Michael Smith, Jim Hazell (Player’s Player), Jai Purdie, Ty Ashe, and Harrison Starr.
UPCOMING MATCHES
This Sunday at Lawson Oval the Goannas will host the Blayney Bears in Youth League (11.20am) and League Tag (12.40pm).
There will be NO First-Grade game due to Blayney’s withdrawal from the competition in early May.
The canteen will be in operation and the gate entry is $5.
The weekend of the 5/6 July will see the Goannas have a bye in all three grades. On the following Sunday (13 July) the Goannas are off to Eugowra to take on the Golden Eagles in all three grades.