Councils across NSW are now absorbing a staggering $1.5 billion in cost shifting from State and Federal governments each year – a cumulative $11.3 billion over the past decade – according to a new report commissioned by Local Government NSW (LGNSW).
Cost Shifting 2025: How State Costs Eat Council Rates was prepared by independent consultants Morrison Low.
It reveals the $1.5 billion burden on councils is an increase of approximately $140 million (10 per cent) since the last report for the 2021/22 financial year, when the total cost shift was estimated at $1.36 billion.
Cost shifting occurs when State and Federal governments force councils to assume responsibility for infrastructure, services and regulatory functions without providing sufficient supporting funding.
LGNSW President Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM said councils faced unprecedented financial strain and warned the practice of cost shifting – overwhelmingly from the NSW Government - must end.
“Councils are at breaking point. The combination of relentless cost shifting, rate capping and inadequate State and Federal funding is eroding the sector’s financial sustainability,” Mayor Miller said.
“Councils are having to foot the bill for State and Federal functions and services that they didn’t design and aren’t funded to deliver.
“This includes the collection of the NSW Government’s Waste Levy and payment of the Emergency Services Levy, and the huge shortfall in funding for our beloved libraries.
“There’s also the significant loss of income when councils aren’t allowed to charge rates on certain properties even though they are big users of council services.
“This means on average, nearly $500 per ratepayer in NSW is being diverted from essential local priorities like roads, libraries, sporting facilities and community programs.
“These are services our communities need, want and deserve, and they’re being severely compromised by councils needing to pick up the bill on behalf of the State.”
Multiple inquiries into the financial sustainability of councils at both State and Federal levels over the past 18 months confirmed the severity of the situation.
The November 2024 report of the NSW Parliamentary inquiry into the ability of councils to fund infrastructure and services called for the NSW Government to identify opportunities to reduce cost shifting to local government.
Mayor Miller called on the NSW Government to commit to genuine reform, including regulatory changes, proper budget support, and fair funding.
“As always, LGNSW stands ready to work with the State Government to finally put an end to cost shifting and ensure councils have the resources they need to serve their communities appropriately,” Mayor Miller said.
Top cost shifts include:
Forced rate exemptions: Where councils are required to exempt profit-driven State-owned corporations and other organisations from paying rates, even though they use and benefit from local government services and infrastructure.
The Waste Levy: An invisible State Government tax collected through waste management fees.
Development assessment and regulatory functions: Including where the NSW Government sets fees well below the actual cost of these functions.
Emergency services obligations: Including the requirement that councils fund 11.7 per cent of the NSW Government’s Emergency Services Levy cost.
Library funding: The NSW Government originally committed to funding up to 50 per cent of libraries’ cost for many councils. It now funds just 6 per cent of total costs, leaving councils to make up the shortfall.
VICKI AND KEVIN HANDING OVER THE REINS
workshop at Bunnings this July.
This month it will be on Saturday 26th in aisle 15 at 10am.
We will learn more about pruning roses and fruit trees before the new growth comes (soon we hope?).
Also preparing soil, planting vegie seeds in egg cartons to take home AND worm farming in a tub.
For more information contact (ph) 0474185093.
All welcome. - COLIN
Harden Hospital
Auxiliary monthly meeting
Harden Hospital Auxiliary monthly morning tea
Thursday 7th August, 10.30am
Guest speaker Liz Sherborne from Harden Physiotherapy and Hydrotherapy pool
$10pp, 98 Albury Street. All welcome. Following morning tea members will stay on for monthly meeting.
As always, thank you for your continued support of our branch.
Southwest CWA celebrate International Day
CWA of NSW International Country of Study this is South Korea.
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For all your Fresh Fillets of Fish King Prawns and Oysters
celebrated their changeover on Sunday 6th July at the Ex-Servic es Club.
The Southwest Group held our international Day at Boorowa Ex-Services Club on Saturday 5th July 2025.
The Boorowa Club made a wonderful three course meal of Korean food for us to try.
The day was organized by our International Day Virginia Keighley.
Our treasurer Maureen Nation and her partner had travelled to South Korea earlier in the year, and she gave a wonderful power point presentation of their visit.
Maureen also bought along and displayed many souvenirs of her trip along with some Korean candy for us to try.
The day was also a combined day with Ag &
Environment which Janice Ward ( ag & environment officer) arranged for two presenters on the day.
Local Artist Kristen Griffiths who gave a presentation on her art inspired by vulnerable and endangered species of frogs, plants and insects.
Also, native plant grower Sally Atkinson who has a Australian native plant nursey near Young, gave a presentation on various plants.
Interestingly she has mainly a lot of West Australian plants and trees.
Our other combined day was Cultural and Norma Power (cultural officer) provided light relief with a rhyming pairs game and shared some general knowledge facts.
- MARGIE CLARK
Boorowa Rotary Changeover
The event was a celebration of the club’s achievements over the past year, the club’s resilience, commitment, and vision for a brighter future.
The Rotary Year starts in July, and is a time of change in the Ro tary world.
At this time of the year, all 34,000 Rotary Clubs around the World conduct a Changeover cer emony which brings new leader ship, new ideas, a new theme and renewed vitality to each Club.
Changeover is a time when appreciation is extended to members for the work they have achieved, the community for their support and (often) the awarding of a Paul Harris Fellow Award - one of the highest awards Rotary can bestow on anyone to individuals who have earned the respect of the club.
At the Boorowa Rotary luncheon, Mr Robert Gledhill was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship in recognition of the great services he has provided to the wider Boorowa community over many years.
This included his tireless work to rebuild the (new) Boorowa Hospital after the old hospital was destroyed by fire; his service as a Boorowa Councillor for 30 years, and his time as Mayor for 14 of those years, among many other services.
JOURNALISTS
lightful luncheon, the outgoing President – Christopher Carter – thanked Boorowa Rotarians for their dedicated service and outstanding leadership shown over the past year.
He highlighted Club achievements such as the 2024 ShelterBox Sleepout, raising funds for people around the world that have been affected by conflict or disasters; the recent TIMBA (This Is My Brave Australia) performance to help reduce stigma surrounding talking about mental health; the great achievements of our local OpShop; and much more.
The afternoon included a raffle, a ‘Silent Auction’ (which raised over $400), and two different games.
One game was a “Who Knows Rotary best” trivia game and the other much more challenging one was a word game where guests were asked to unscramble both/either “Rotary International” or the incoming year theme of “Unite for Good” to make as many words of 3 letters or more.
The highest number of words was 157 at one table.
Rotarian, Mrs Ilze Myburgh, was inducted as the President of the Ro-
Ilze brings a wealth of experience, passion and commitment to the role, and spoke passionately about the Boorowa Club working closely with the Rotary Club of Swakopmund in Namibia in helping to support women towards financial independence and their children in education. Ilze also introduced her team that will carry the club forward for the new year.
Outgoing District Governor, Rob Uhl, congratulated the Boorowa Rotarians for their initiatives over the past year, saying it was thanks to the tireless work of the band of members who turn up time after time.
HARDWICK
Boorowa’s absolutely superb Literary Festival
“Model daughter, model student and all-round good girl,” was how Canberra based writer Qin Qin described her younger self while discussing her memoir “Model Minority Gone Rogue” at the third annual Boorowa Literary Festival held at the Boorowa Recreation and Sports club in beautiful downtown Boorowa.
Qin Qin was one of the six writers attending the festival to discuss their books and share entertaining anecdotes and behind-the-scenes insights into their stories and their lives as writers.
The festival, the brainchild of Jeremy Clarke, the owner of Boorowa’s The Absolutely Superb Bibliotheque and Occasional Wine Bar, was a warm, friendly and well organised gathering of writers and readers who came together to “talk about reading and writing.”
The festival kicked off on Friday night with author Tim Ayliffe discussing life and all things literature through the lens of his thriller novels – some of which are in development for TV - as well as his 25 year career as a journalist.
Qin Qin, interviewed insightfully and intelligently by Boorowa local Nicky Merriman, spoke about her transformative journey from fulfilling her immigrant parents’ desire for her success to discovering a life of personal fulfilment and joy and it made for a profoundly moving interview.
Unfortunately I couldn’t be present to hear author Siang Lu speak about his novel “Ghost Cities” inspired by the vacant, uninhabited megacities of China.
But according to everyone who was present, Lu‘s interview, with resident sinophile Jeremy Clarke, was fascinating and generated much conversation over coffee and cake at the end of the session.
After the lunch break the award winning crime fiction author Matthew Spencer was interviewed by local cop, Detective Chief Constable Chris Anderson.
$100,000 lotto win
A man from Young was shaken out of his winter slump after receiving a life-enhancing call from lottery officials informing him he’d won $100,000 in Lucky Lotteries Super
The Hilltops resident held the 1st Prize winning entry in Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot draw 11022, drawn Monday 7 July 2025.
The winning man, who had “never even won a meat tray”, was shocked to discover his ticket had delivered him a hot $100,000 win.
Being interviewed by a working police officer offered us an “inside” perspective and Spencer regaled us with
stories about some of the shadier real life characters he’d interviewed and been inspired by in writing his novels.
Margaret Hickey, yet another award winning writer and playwright, told us about how she finds the tension between the “beauty and the terror” of the Australian landscape continually offers her a myriad of scenarios and characters to write about along with endless perfect sites to “bury the bodies.”
Wrapping up the day was the internationally famous and multi-award winning author Candice Fox.
Fox has not only written eleven crime novels, two of which were adapted into a major ABC TV series, but she co-wrote seven New York
Young Mosque shares kindness with the community
On Thursday, July 10, the Young Mosque brought a message of kindness to the streets of Young by offering free, freshly prepared meals to anyone who needed one, or simply wanted one.
Set up in front of Coffee Mate Café from 4:30pm, the initiative was open to all, with no questions asked and no strings attached.
“Times are tough, and we know many are doing it hard
right now,” organisers shared in the lead-up.
“Whether you’re struggling or just passing by - we invite you to grab a warm, delicious meal.
“Just kindness.”
Meals were properly and thoughtfully prepared, reflecting the group’s commitment to dignity and care in every interaction.
This act of generosity is just the beginning.
The team plans to continue monthly meal giveaways in different towns, with hopes to expand to fortnightly events as their capacity grows.
“From our hearts to yours,” they said.
“We’re here for the community.”
Locals are encouraged to keep an eye out for future giveaways and to help spread the word.
“That’s very exciting! Wow!” he exclaimed.
“I’ve never even won a meat tray. Normally when I win something, it’s a $29 win - max!
“It’s freezing cold where I am and I’m not coping. I might’ve been here all my life, but I still haven’t gotten used
“I’ve had some friends move to Queensland and it’s looking very promising.
“This win has really cured my winter blues today!
“I thought it was a scam at first when I received an email from you.
“I looked at it and thought, ‘Oh no, not another one!’ but it’s legitimate.
Times bestsellers with James Patterson – the world’s bestselling thriller writer.
Her warm, straight-talking nature belied her status as an international star and she spoke as enthusiastically about rescuing an injured sea eagle for WIRES as she did about meeting and befriending her idol the prolific author Lee Child. She was a delight to listen to and no-one wanted her interview to end.
Thank you Jeremy and Lucy for creating this wonderful event in our own backyard and I know I’m one of the many who can’t wait for next year’s “absolutely superb” festival.
ROZ HALL FARLAM
“Thank you very much!”
Although the winning man initially had no idea how he’d spend his newfound winnings, he eventually warmed to the idea of visiting friends in the Sunshine State for a change of climate.
“You know what?” he asked.
“I might take a few
Qin Qin and Nicky Merriman.
YOUR COUNCIL - YOUR NEWS HILLTOPS COUNCIL
PLANNED COUNCIL WORKS
NOTIFICATION UNTIL WEEK ENDING THURSDAY 24/07/2025
is available on Council’s website at www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/council/ council-works-and-road-closures/
PUBLIC NOTICES
PUBLIC NOTICE | PUBLIC EXHIBITION OF DRAFT POLICIES (VARIOUS)
Council currently has the following documents and policies on public exhibition:
• Draft Hilltops Customer Service Chartersubmissions close 5pm, Thursday 24 July 2025
• Draft Complaints Management Policy –submissions close 5pm, Thursday 24 July 2025
• Draft Managing Unreasonable Complainant Conduct Policy – submissions close 5pm, Thursday 24 July 2025
• Draft Hilltops Heritage Strategy 2025-2028submissions close 5pm, Monday 28 July 2025
• Draft Koorawatha Village Plan 2025 - submissions close 5pm, Monday 28 July 2025
The draft policies can be viewed at www.hilltops. nsw.gov.au/council/have-your-say/ or hard copies are available for viewing by the public at the Council administration offices at Boorowa, Harden and Young.
SUBMISSIONS
Any person may make a written submission to Council by the submissions close date listed after the relevant document or draft policy.
Submissions can be made via www.hilltops.nsw.gov. au/council/have-your-say/ or BY LETTER TO: The General Manager, Locked Bag No. 5, Young NSW 2594.
All submissions received will be considered by Council before the final documents are adopted.
SEEKING EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST | HILLTOPS COUNCIL BOOROWA SPORTS ADVISORY GROUP.
Hilltops Council would like to invite representatives from suitable sporting bodies in the Boorowa locality to sit on the newly formed Hilltops Council Boorowa Sports Advisory Group.
Interested sporting bodies should nominate one representative for the Boorowa Sports Advisory Group and an alternate. One representative from each sporting body will have voting rights on the Boorowa Sports Advisory Group.
The purpose of the Boorowa Sports Advisory Group is to provide a forum for the dissemination and consideration of information pertaining to relevant Council strategies; represent the views of local sporting bodies relating to sporting matters; and promote cross-code collaboration between Boorowa’s local sporting bodies to achieve greater utilisation of facilities and fields.
SUBMISSIONS
More information, eligibility requirements and an Expression of Interest form are available on Council’s website at www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/council/haveyour-say/
Applicants must also attach a supporting letter with a brief outline of their interest in and capacity to be
a member of the Boorowa Sports Advisory Group and a description of relevant skills and experience, including past involvement in sports or community groups.
Expressions of Interest are to be received no later than 5pm on Monday 28 July 2025 and can be made via an online form found on Council’s website at www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/council/haveyour-say/; or BY LETTER TO: The General Manager, Locked Bag No. 5, Young NSW 2594.
COUNCIL TENDER | RFT000035 - SMART WATER
METER SUPPLY AND TELEMETRY UPGRADES
Hilltops Council invites tenders from suitably qualified and experienced contractors for the supply of smart water meters and telemetry system upgrades across the Hilltops Local Government Area (LGA).
Interested parties are required to register via Council’s E-tendering Portal, Tenderlink, via portal.tenderlink.com/hilltops/ to download the relevant tender documentation.
Should you experience difficulties accessing the above website please call Tenderlink’s helpdesk on 1800 233 533. All enquiries are also to be directed through the Tenderlink Forum.
Closing date: 12:00pm (AEDT) on Tuesday 22 July 2025
SEEKING EXPRESSIONS OF INTERESTHILLTOPS ACCESS COMMITTEE (RE-ADVERTISED)
Hilltops Council would like to invite members of the community to nominate for the Hilltops Access Committee (the ‘Committee’). Council is looking to appoint up to ten (10) community members or representatives from our local community in line with the term of Council.
The purpose of the Committee is to provide community representation advice and input to Council on the views, needs and interests of people with disability, their families and carers in the Hilltops Local Government Area; the development, implementation and review of Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan and assist Council to consult and respond to access issues that impact on communities across the Hilltops Local Government Area.
SUBMISSIONS
More information, eligibility requirements and an Expression of Interest form are available on Council’s website at www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au/council/haveyour-say/
Applicants must also attach a supporting letter demonstrating how your membership would be of benefit to the Committee.
Expressions of Interest can be made via an online form found on Council’s website at www.hilltops.nsw. gov.au/council/have-your-say/; or BY LETTER TO: The General Manager, Locked Bag No. 5, Young NSW 2594.
Proposal: Agricultural Produce Industry Alterations and Additions
Exhibition Dates: 17 July 2025 to 31 July 2025
Submissions Close: Prior to close of business 31 July 2025
The application will be considered under Part 4 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979. Hilltops Council is the consent authority for this application.
In accordance with the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, Development Applications and documents accompanying the applications may be viewed during the exhibition period on Council’s website: www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au.
Any persons may make written submissions on the applications. All submissions may be published in Council’s business papers and viewed by other persons with an interest in the applications. If your comments are an objection, then the grounds of the objection must be specified.
Persons lodging submissions are required to declare reportable political donations (including donations of or more than $1,000) made in the previous two years and up until the determination of the development. For more details including a disclosure form, go to www.hilltops.nsw.gov.au.
Submissions on the proposal must be lodged in writing with Council prior to the close of business on submission close date stated above, in the following manner:
- by NSW Planning Portal: www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au; or
- By email: submissions@hilltops.nsw.gov.au; or
- By post: Locked Bag No. 5, Young NSW 2594.
Submissions may be published in Council’s business papers and viewed by other persons with an interest in the application. All submissions will be made public in accordance with Schedule 1 of the Government Information (Public Access) Regulation 2018.
PESTICIDE & HERBICIDE USE
NOTIFICATION
UNTIL WEEK ENDING THURSDAY 24/07/2025
Planned pesticide and herbicide use by Council works crews will be conducted on:
All roads in Hilltops Council - Young, Boorowa and Harden areas; Shire parks, ovals, laneways, cemeteries and some town areas;
• All villages, rest areas, rural tips and reserves; and
• Rural and regional road shoulders.
And may include the use of: Round Up, Round Up Ultra Max, Wipeout 450, Glyphosate 450, Brush Off, Starane, Basta, Biffo, Sharpen, Striker, Amitrol, Simaganz, Weedmaster, Dicamba, Kamba M, Metsulfuron, Grazon, Primo, MCPA 500, KenMet, Taskforce, Para-Trooper, Spraytop, Devour, Verdict, Pyrethrum, Broadstrike and Fusilade;
• Confidor for aphids; Access for wild fruit tree control;
• Various wetters to enhance the effectiveness of chemicals; and
• Naturalure Fruit Fly Bait to target the control of fruit fly.
In accordance with Hilltops Council’s Pesticide Notification Plan, signs and flashing lights will be provided on vehicles applying pesticides. Escort warning vehicles will be used for the 2024/2025 road shoulder program. Signage will be placed to inform the public where required and will remain on-site for 24 hours after spraying.
Road users should exercise extreme caution when passing these vehicles. Planned pesticide and herbicide use is subject to change due to Council resources and weather conditions.
PLEASE DIRECT ANY ENQUIRIES TO CUSTOMER SERVICES ON 1300 445 586.
Passing of the torch for Poppas Fudge Factory
By ANNABEL CUSACK
Local fixture Poppa’s Fudge Factory has been a staple in the community for decades.
Locals and tourists alike know the establishment as a one-stop shop for all things gifting, homewares, amazing food, and, of course, fudge.
In what feels like the end of an era, Vicki and Kevin “Poppa” Powderly are stepping down from their roles as owners and handing the reins to the new owners after 27 years.
twelve months, thinking, will we do this?
Vicki shared with us some of their journey from the business’s conception to how far they’ve come.
“My husband, Poppa, retired from the electrical business, we sold it to the boys, and I said, ‘Well, if you’re going to retire, I’d like to open up a home and gift store.’ So that’s what we did, 27 years ago,” Vicki said.
She shared their inspiration for the business to be the one-stop shop for anyone needing gifts, from a small thought to something more extravagant, they had the town covered.
“We wanted to base our business on, it’s like an American movie, where someone goes in and gets a beautiful, beautiful present, giftwrapped, and walks out with this amazing, amazing gift.” Vicki said.
The business later expanded, slowly moving toward the institution we all know and love.
“In 2005, we decided to get into the tourism side.
“We’d seen fudge at different trade places we went to.
“We mulled over it for quite a while, probably about eight or
“It’s going to mean longer hours and more days, and we went for it.”
The journey with fudge began with some lessons from a veteran of the industry and the pay off has been immense, with celebrities even making appearances at the shop over the years.
“Captain Fudge came into the store and taught Poppa how to cook the fudge,” Vicki said.
“We started off with ten varieties and it was a massive success.
“We had the line up down the street.
“Now there’s about 55 varieties that we can make, some are seasonal.
“Sandwich fudge is for Australia Day, basically, and it was a great hit because we had Paul Murray come down, he was ambassador for Australia Day, and he came into the store and gave it a plug,” Vicki said.
“Eight months after we started the fudge, we decided we’d put all the confectionery in and away it took off.”
With changes in other local businesses’ there were gaps created in what was available locally, so Vicki and Kevin decided to aim to fill those.
“We could see a gap there when the other JD’s stopped operating, so we decided we’d jump in and cook our own (jams and preserves),” she said.
“Everything’s done by hand, no machinery.
“There were two kitchens.”
They also take pride in being able to showcase the local growers and farmers by using as much local fruits and vegetables as possible.
“We’ve always sourced locally,” Vicki said.
“All fresh fruit and vegetables.
“We’ve loved highlighting such great local produce.”
Being a very popular spot for Christmas gifting, there are plenty of holiday jobs due to the sheer scale of how many locals head to the shop for all their holiday needs.
“During the cherry festival season and even Christmas, we’d be pumping out about 200 portions a day,” Vicki said.
“It’s an army of workers at that time of year.
“It’s a production.”
However, now it’s time for Vicki and Kevin to pass the mantle on and take a step back.
“Seven days a week, 27 years, it’s time,” Vicki said.
“Sometimes we’d be down here
at five o’clock in the morning and wouldn’t get home until late.”
“It became a very, very successful business through sheer hard work.
“It’s not for everyone, it’ll wear you down.”
“I was a bit reluctant, but I thought, I can’t do this forever.
“It’s time.”
There will be a transition period as Vicki and Kevin pass the business on to new hands and teach them all of the tricks to the trade.
“The new owners are local people,” Vicki said.
“It’s going to be in good hands.
“They’re very enthusiastic, we’re staying on to help with the transition.
“It’s their baby now.
“It’s quite funny, yesterday I had a couple in the shop and they said, ‘Wow, this shop is amazing!’ and I said, ‘Thank you,’ and they asked, ‘Do you own it?’ and I said, ‘Actually no, I don’t anymore.’ I’m getting used to that, it’s not my baby anymore.”
Though Vicki said it’s time, it doesn’t mean that it isn’t the end of an era.
“Handing it over is a little bit bittersweet,” Vicki said.
“We’re ready, but I’m really happy for them because there’s enough
wiggle room in it to take it to the next step.”
As for what Kevin and Vicki will be up to in their retirement?
“We’ve decided we’ll do a few trips,” Vicki said.
“I don’t know how I’ll go with retirement, Kevin’s tried, this is his third time, it doesn’t work!”
Over the past almost 30 years there have been many moments that the business owners will treasure and some they will think on with sadness, however, they believe without the community support they will always be grateful for the chance to be a part of something iconic.
“There’s been a lot of great times, more great times than not-so-great ones,” Vicki said.
“But over the last four years, personally, it’s been a challenge, different things have happened in our lives.
“The business got us through that.
“The community were the ones who rallied when we needed help.
“We’ve always been very community-minded.
“We love what we do, and when you love it, it loves you back.
“We’ll miss it, but in time, you learn to love retirement, so we’ll give it a crack, like everything else!”
Temporary branch closure for renovations in Boorowa Police seeking assistance following alleged assault
Community Bank Boorowa wishes to advise our valued customers that the branch will be temporarily closed from Friday 1 August at 12.00pm to Monday 25 August 2025 to allow for essential renovations.
“We first opened our doors on 12 May 2001, and to ensure we can continue to serve the community for many more years, these much-needed upgrades are a vital investment in our community’s future,” Chair of Community Bank Boorowa Belinda Reid said.
Boorowa Branch Manager Darren said the bank is working with local businesses to minimise any disruptions.
“We understand this closure may cause some inconvenience, and we are working closely with local businesses and our wider Community Bank network to minimise disruption during this time,” Darren said.
Here’s how you can access banking services while the branch is closed:
Pop-Up Shop & Service Desk: Assisting with noncash transactions - full details to be announced shortly.
Cash Services: Deposits and withdrawals available at Boorowa Post Office
(Requires card access).
ATM Access: ATM available at Boorowa Ex-Services Club.
Online Banking: Access e-banking and the Bendigo Bank app anytime, as usual.
Visit Our Friends: Full
banking services available at Community Bank Harden Murrumburrah, who we’ll be working closely with throughout the closure.
The final day of trading before renovations will be Friday 1 August, closing at 12pm.
The bank thanks the community for their understanding and continued support. If you have any questions or need assistance before the temporary closure, please don’t hesitate to contact Community Bank Boorowa and please keep an eye on the Community Bank Boorowa Facebook page for updates. Community Bank Boorowa is looking forward to welcoming locals back to their refreshed and revitalised branch soon.
Tickets for 155 year celebration now available
Tickets are now available for the Boorowa Central School 155th anniversary gala dinner. Join in for a special evening celebrating 155 years of Boorowa Central School at the Gala Dinner on Saturday September 20, 2025 at the Boorowa Ex Services Club.
To secure your seat you must RSVP and pay. Your booking will not be confirmed without both.
How to RSVP:
Fill out the online form and make a payment via bank transfer or complete a paper flyer available at local businesses and return it to the school office with payment.
We kindly ask that you RSVP properly - the committee won’t be chasing payments or forms. Incomplete RSVPs may result in your ticket being cancelled.
To find the online form please visit https://bit.ly/44oizFI.
Tickets are $40 per person and includes a canape dinner. RSVPs close on August 29.
About 2.20am on Thursday 10 July 2025, emergency services were called to an ambulance station in Crookwell, following reports a paramedic was assaulted.
Officers from The Hume Police District were told the paramedic saw an unknown man trying to enter his personal vehicle parked outside the station.
The paramedic approached the man, who assaulted him.
The man left the scene prior to police arrival.
The paramedic was not injured; however, he was taken to Goulburn Hospital for observation.
Police were unable to locate the man after conducting extensive patrols of the area.
Police have commenced an investigation and have released a description of a man, who they believe may be to assist with inquiries.
The man is described as being aged in his 30s, of solid build, about 180cm tall, and he was wearing a dark jacket with hoodie underneath.
Inspector David Cowell from the Yass Police Station is appealing to the community for information to assist in identifying this offender.
“This was a deeply troubling incident and believe the individual responsible may have been attempting to break into cars in the area,” he said.
DPI release important information for locals
Are you a sheep and goat owner?
The DPI need your help to protect the sheep and livestock industry.
From 1 January 2025, all sheep and goats born in NSW must be identified with NLIS electronic ID (eID) tags – replacing visual tags. Here’s some important infor-
mation to consider: Everyone who owns or works with sheep and goats will be impacted, including pet owners, smallholders, graziers, and agents.
This change has been made as eID tagging improves traceability, strengthens biosecurity, and helps protect market access for producers.
A friendly reminder that you’ll need a Property Identification Code (PIC) to use the NLIS system.
Until 31 Dec 2026, visual tags are okay for older animals. However, from Jan 2027 all sheep and goats must have eID’s. Learn more and get prepared at: www. dpi.nsw.gov.au/eid
Farmers for Climate Action welcome battery subsidy
Farmers have the chance to charge up their energy independence as the Federal Government’s battery subsidy begins.
Farmers for Climate Action, representing its 8400 farmer members, pushed hard for a battery boost policy which helps farmers before the Federal election.
The Government subsequently announced a policy which pays a rebate of around $344 per kilowatt hour of storage capped at 50 kw/h worth of
rebate (although a farmer could install up to a 100 kw/h battery system and would receive the rebate on the first 50 kw/h of storage).
FCA CEO Natalie Collard encouraged farmers to get involved.
“Let’s charge up farm batteries to charge up farm energy independence,” Ms Collard said.
“We know batteries give us more energy independence, more energy security, and also help keep our grid energy reliable and affordable.
“This rebate is also helpful for households and will help put downward pressure on energy prices because batteries reduce energy consumption at peak times.
“This rebate can save farmers thousands of dollars - and thousands more every year as farmers use the energy they generate and store onfarm.
“Keeping farmers profitable and productive is a no brainer.
“It’s frustrating when the local grid
goes down, so farmers can choose batteries to keep the farm running during blackouts.
“No extra paperwork is required to access the rebate, because it will be delivered through the existing Small Scale Renewable Energy Scheme.
“The rebate is capped at $2.3 billion, so it will run out unless it’s extended.”
For more information please visit https://www.energy.gov.au/rebates/ cheaper-home-batteries-program
“We urge residents to check their CCTV footage and report any suspicious behaviour from overnight.
“Your information could be vital in helping us protect our community.”
What You Can Do:
Check your CCTV or doorbell camera footage from last night for any suspicious activity, especially around parked vehicles.
Report any unusual behaviour you may have witnessed, even if it seemed minor at the time.
If you have any information, please contact Crookwell Police Station or the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.
Your help could be crucial in identifying the individual responsible and preventing further incidents.
Hilltops Councillor Column
The July Ordinary Council Meeting is approaching next week, and among various agenda items, I want to highlight an important issue in our community.
I’ll be presenting a Mayoral report to raise awareness and advocate for action on the growing burden of cost shifting from higher levels of government onto local councils, specifically here at Hilltops Council.
The financial strain on local councils, including Hilltops, continues to escalate.
According to the latest Local Government NSW Cost Shifting Report 2023/2024 by independent consultants Morrison Low, councils across NSW had to absorb $1.5 billion in unfunded responsibilities - an increase of $140 million since 2021/22.
This equates to an average of $497.40 per ratepayer, up from $460.68 just two years ago.
Orchardist and soldier Reg Dawe
Richard Reginald Riley Dawe or Reg as he was usually known was born at Dalton near Gunning to Theodore and Elizabeth Jane née Clarke in 1896.
At 19, he enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force at Goulburn on 29 September 1915 and served in the 1st Battalion in France. He was wounded in action in August 1918 but resumed service before returning to Sydney on 14 May 1919.
At the time of his enlistment his occupation was a labourer, and at his discharge from the armed forces he became one of the original soldier settlers at Waterview in the Monteagle district.
He planted an orchard but the trees died, so he replanted again in the next year.
In 1921 he married Doris Irene Donges at Monteagle and they had two sons, Eric and Noel.
Reg’s Independent Order of Oddfellow Manchester Unity (MUIOOF) apron is displayed at the Young Historical Museum.
By the late 19th century, the MUIOOF had a network of lodges in cities and towns across Australia providing welfare support, medical care and a sense of community to its members.
While MUIOOF membership declined after World War II with the introduction of social welfare, Manchester Unity reinvented itself as insurance company Australian Unity. Throughout his life Reg was an active member of the Monteagle MUIOOF for instance participating and receiving a certificate at the Monteagle Oddfellows Ball in July 1924.
Reg was a steward at the 1929 Monteagle Annual Carnival where equestrian events in the
For Hilltops Council, thistenance and pothole repairs across our towns, reduced -
brary hours and community programs, and slower progress on vital infrastructure projects such as recreation area upgrades and town centre revitalisation.
Hilltops Council stands united with other NSW councils in advocating for reform.
We must ensure that local government is funded fairly and sustainably so we can continue to deliver the services our communities rely on.
On another note, I want to remind everyone about considerate and lawful parking practices.
Parking rules, governed by the NSW State Government, ensure the safety and accessibility of all community members.
To avoid fines and demerit points, please adhere to parking time limits, avoid parking in disabled areas without a permit, and respect ‘No Stopping’ signs and bus zones.
Council Rangers are unable to review or overturn infringements once issued and are not involved in the appeals process.
Any appeals must go directly through Revenue NSW.
I was pleased to attend the Lions Club of Young Changeover Luncheon on Sunday.
I congratulate the club on another successful year and acknowledge the distribution of much needed funds to our community groups for 2024-25, also announced on Sunday.
Lions and Rotary are both fantastic community organisations that make valuable contributions to local people. They rely solely on volunteers, and I encourage anyone wanting to make new social connections while contributing meaningfully to the community to consider volunteering.
I commend the Young
Mosque for their initiative in providing over 100 hot meals to those in need last week.
There are plans for this to become a regular service, with the next meals to be handed out in Boorowa. It’s heartening to see such efforts during these challenging times.
Lastly, a shout-out to local business Sim.ple for their successful annual fundraiser - this year raising over $8,000 for the oncology department at Young Hospital.
Well done to Megan and her team for their dedication to supporting our community.
These are just some examples of community spirit being alive and well. Please keep looking out for each other, especially our elderly and more vulnerable residents during these cold winter months.
Mayor Brian Ingram
Farmers wait over a year for response
ring, needlework and school exhibits were a highlight.
He was also a foundation member of Waterview Tennis Club which was formed in 1920 and played many tournaments in the 1920s and 30s.
Active as a Methodist at Grenfell, he was elected as a junior steward as well as a representative to the annual conference in Sydney in February 1942.
Besides being an orchardist, Reg produced wool from the 1930s.
During World War II, he felt compelled to enlist in the Australian Defence Force on 9 April 1941 at Orange.
At the rank of Corporal he served in the Garrison at Cowra POW Camp from 12 April 1941 to 8 December 1945.
Once discharged he returned to working the land at Waterview, only moving into the town of Young in 1970.
Doris died in February 1973 and Reg died in October the same year.
- KAREN SCHAMBERGERYOUNG HISTORICAL SOCIETY
YOUR ONE STOP SHOP FOR ALL RURAL NEEDS
Australia’s peak farming bodies are demanding urgent action from the Federal Government after it is yet to respond to two critical drought resilience actions.
The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF), alongside its members Australian Dairy Farmers, NSW Farmers, Primary Producers SA and Victorian Farmers’ Federation, is calling on Government to commit to the Regional Investment Corporation (RIC) and respond to the Independent Review of the Regional Investment Corporation Act 2018 (the Act).
The RIC provides low interest loans to farm businesses to help farm businesses become more resilient and respond to drought conditions.
In the seven years since the RIC was established, it’s helped almost 3,400 farm businesses, saving farmers over $354 million in interest payments.
The Independent Review was commissioned in November 2023, and the final report provided to Government over a year ago.
The report’s key recommendations include:
Concessional loans are an
effective policy tool to support long-term viable farmers and farm related small businesses in financial need, particularly during drought, and The Government retain the RIC as the delivery means for concessional finance.
While the sector recognises time is needed to work through the recommendations, the NFF has continually urged the Minister for Agriculture to publicly support concessional lending and the RIC.
Not only does this align with the industry policy, which states clearly the sector’s support for concessional lending and the RIC, but also the Government’s renewed Drought Plan, released just last year.
NFF President David Jochinke said the NFF had formally written to the Minister twice seeking this commitment.
“The NFF appreciates that given the significant investment of public funds, along with policy and technical considerations, it is important the Government carefully considers its response to the RIC review,” he said.
“However, it’s been over a year since the review was
handed to Government, it is imperative a response is provided.
“This is critical to support producers making decisions about their future risk management strategies.
“We are concerned producers have finished their FY26 budgeting without a clear signal on the Government’s commitment to concessional lending and the RIC as the tool to deliver it.”
At the election, the NFF outlined a series of immediate priorities for the incoming government.
The Government, to their credit, has responded to a number of these including visits to drought-affected regions by the Prime Minister and Agriculture Minister, increased funding for the Rural Financial Counselling Service, and the announcement of the 2025 National Drought Forum. But two key policy asks remain unanswered:
An immediate extension of the RIC’s loan capacity beyond 30 June 2026.
A formal response to the independent review of the RIC, delivered over a year ago, within the first 60 days of forming Government.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.15 ER. 3.00 Doctor Who. 4.05 Would I Lie To You? 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Car S.O.S.
10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Winter Challenge Day, VRC Members Race Day and QFC Charity Raceday. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Great Outdoors. 7.30 Mysteries Of The Pyramids. New. 8.30 MOVIE: The Da Vinci Code. (2006) Tom Hanks, Audrey Tautou, Ian McKellen. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Shopping. 8.30 Better Homes. 11.00 Harry’s Practice. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 The Zoo. 12.30 My Greek Odyssey. 1.30 Better Homes. 4.00 Harry’s Practice. 4.30 The Zoo. 5.00 Slow Train Through Africa. 6.00 Every Bite Takes You Home. 6.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 1.30 My Greek Odyssey. 2.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Aussie Truckers. 3.00 Motor Racing. NDRC Nitro Funny Cars. Riverbend Nationals. 4.00 Football. AFL. Round 19. Sydney v North Melbourne. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 Pawn Stars. 9.30 American Pickers. 10.30 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 11.30 Late Programs.
Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 Aussie Mates, Their Lawns & Barbies. 12.00 The Fishing Show By AFN. 1.00 Fishing Addiction. 2.00 Fishy Business. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 19. Collingwood v Fremantle. 6.00 The Wash Up. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: Taken 2. (2012) 10.30 MOVIE: The Rock. (1996) 1.20 Late Programs.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Your honesty is, as always, admirable. But you might want to be more tactful when discussing a sensitive issue with a family member. Remember, you can give advice without giving offense.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) An unexpected workplace snag should be handled quickly and efficiently so that it leaves you time for family get-togethers. Also, you might soon get a long-sought apology.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Aspects favor family matters, especially where children might be involved. Spending time with loved ones helps restore some much-needed balance to your typically busy schedule.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A seemingly clear-cut agreement might not be quite so straightforward after all. Recheck for language that could make you liable for hidden costs and other unpleasant surprises.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Canberra Raiders v Eels. 2.30 NRLW Wrap. 3.15 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Canterbury Bulldogs v Dragons. 5.00 News. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 Rugby Union. Aust v British & Irish Lions. 10.00 Test Rugby: Australia v British & Irish Lions Post-Match. 10.15 MOVIE: Sicario: Day Of The Soldado. (2018) 12.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 Holistic Living. 11.30 The Big Adventure. 1.00 Wife Swap Australia. 2.20 My Ireland With Colin. 3.20 America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League. 5.20 MOVIE: Pixels. (2015) 7.30 MOVIE: Bridesmaids. (2011) 10.05 MOVIE: Bombshell. (2019) 12.20 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.10 GCBC. 12.30 The Brighter Side: Save. Grow. Dream. 1.00 Buy To Build. 1.30 The Yes Experiment. Final. 2.00 4x4 Adventures. 3.00 Silvia’s Italian Masterclass. 3.30 Farm To Fork.
6.00 Morning Programs. 3.00 Rugby Union. Shute Shield. Randwick v Gordon. 5.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 3. Cronulla Sharks v North Queensland Cowboys. 7.00 Keeping Up Appearances. 7.30 MOVIE: The Blind Side. (2009) 10.10 MOVIE: The Bodyguard. (1992) 12.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.30 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 3. Brisbane Broncos v Sydney Roosters. 3.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 20. Newcastle Knights v New Zealand Warriors. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Travel Guides. 8.10 60 Minutes. 9.10 Australian Crime Stories: The Investigators. 10.10 9News Late. 10.40 See No Evil. 11.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 10.00 Behave Yourself. 11.20 America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League. 1.15 Home And Away. 4.00 Dancing With The Stars. 5.30 Extreme Animal Transport. 6.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. 10.30 Bones. 12.30 Lie To Me. 1.30 Alias. 2.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Getaway. 1.30 The Baron. 2.30 MOVIE: Revolt At Fort Laramie. (1957) 4.00 MOVIE: The War Wagon. (1967) 6.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 3. Newcastle Knights v New Zealand Warriors. 8.00 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: Arrival. (2016) 10.50 The Closer. 11.50 Late Programs.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) Careful, Kitty! It’s better to deal with someone with proven reliability than a big talker who promises much but can’t confirm that they will deliver. Meanwhile, your social life really zings this weekend.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Your matchmaking skills are at peak performance levels -- both in helping to staff workplace teams for upcoming projects and for bringing people together on a more personal basis.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) You’re finally seeing some progress with your new venture, but be prepared for it to continue at a slower pace than you’re used to. Meanwhile, a loved one could be preparing a surprise.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) A family member’s success pulls you into the spotlight as well. Enjoy it, but don’t let it overshadow or otherwise obstruct what you’re doing with your own creative projects.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Using what you already know might not be quite enough to get a proposed project off the ground. Look for any new information that might help tilt the scales in your favor.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Good news! While a changing workplace environment can be daunting for some, it could be the challenge you’ve been hoping for. If so, confront it with confidence and move on.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) It’s a good time to recheck travel arrangements for any changes that could work to your advantage. Aspects also favor strengthening and restoring old, fraying relationships.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Using your intuitive reasoning helps you cut right through the double talk and straight to what’s really going on around you. Stay the course until all your questions are answered.
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
1 Which is the seventh major planet in order from the sun (6)
8 Name another term for an allergy (3,5)
9 Who makes or repairs barrels (6)
10 To have made beloved is to have done what (8)
11 To be in great plenty, is to be what (6)
12 What is deposited as a sediment (4)
13 Who escorts persons to theatre seats (5)
16 What are rough structures, built for shelter (5)
19 Name the second son of Adam and Eve (4)
21 What is a railway locomotive known as (6)
22 Which word suggests a piece of nonsense (4-4)
23 What is a looking glass (6)
24 What was the former name of Zimbabwe (8)
25 Name a disunion, especially into mutually opposed parties (6)
DOWN
2 What is an oblique-angled equilateral parallelogram (7)
3 Which planet lies between Pluto and Uranus (7)
4 What are bits, or scraps (6)
Letters have a
Some values are in the right
5 Which term describes consequences (7)
6 Name another word for insatiable greed (7)
7 Which harness parts are used to restrain and guide horses (7)
13 What is worn by a policeman (7)
14 Name an alternative term for the skyline (7)
15 Who founded Singapore in 1819, Sir Thomas Stamford ... (7)
17 Name an English painter and engraver, noted for his moral and satirical works, William ... (7)
18 What are Australian native dogs known as (7)
20 What are arguments, themes, or subjects (6)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
WHICH WORDS
4 DYSPHAGIA
(a) Intense dislike (b) Difficulty in swallowing (c) Morbid anxiety
5 EXCORTICATE
(a) To strip the bark off (b) To deprive of church privileges (c) To irritate greatly
E-QUATIONS
Create remaining values using clues in
cells.
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
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:
Audience (abb) (3)
Examines using a machine (5)
Formula: copper (ii) sulfide (3)
German design school (7)
Label (3)
Puccini opera (5)
Pad (7)
Short street (5)
Temporary shelters: lean-... (3)
Work: the daily ... (5)
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
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Over $9,500 raised in memory of a very special mother
By ANNABEL CUSACK
The Young community has once again come together in a powerful show of generosity, raising $9,507.35 for the local Oncology Unit through the Sim. ple hosted, “A Day For Kerry” fundraiser, organised by local business owner Megan Coddington.
Now in its second year, the event is held in memory of Megan’s mother, Kerry, who passed away from brain cancer.
Each year, Megan honours her mum’s birthday by raising funds to support local cancer care services in an effort to help to improve the comfort and care of patients receiving treatment at the Young Oncology Unit.
Running the event through her business, Sim.ple HQ, Megan was joined by her family and a team of dedicated supporters.
All proceeds from coffees, orange cakes- Kerry’s favouriteand cookies sold on the day were donated.
Megan’s daughters played a key role, with Pip contributing a range of handmade Pip Jewellery pieces sold in-store and
online, and Lil helping prepare treats in the kitchen.
Megan’s husband Simon was on hand to lend support, while baristas Molly and Evie kept up a steady flow of coffee for customers throughout the day.
Local businesses also stepped in to help cover the event’s running costs, including Academy Coffee, Donges
IGA, and Diverse Range, while members of the community contributed handmade gifts and other donations.
The money raised will go directly to the Oncology Unit to improve patient comfort, such as upgrading treatment chairs and supporting the wig library, which many patients rely on during treatment.
“For its patients it can be a long day spent in these chairs or a wig borrowed from the wig library that may not be accessible otherwise,” Megan said.
“Both of these things need a little bit of extra love right now.
“Our annual fundraiser, “A Day For Kerry” is all about helping out patient care facilities locally.”
persist across the
Recent data from the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) has confirmed that dry conditions continue to affect much of the local area, with many local farming communities experiencing below-average rainfall and reduced soil moisture.
The July 2025 State Seasonal Update identifies large parts of southern NSW as either ‘Drought Affected’ or in ‘Drought’, reflecting the ongoing seasonal challenges across the
Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke said she is regularly contacted by landholders who are working hard to manage conditions as they plan for the months ahead.
“Farmers in our region are incredibly resilient, but there is no question they are doing it tough at the moment,” Ms Cooke
“It is important the NSW Government outlines a clear plan as to how they intend to support our primary producers over the next 12 months, particularly if conditions remain dry through spring and into summer.”
Ms Cooke said she continues to receive requests from local farmers seeking access to practical support, including transport subsidies to help manage rising freight costs.
“Right now, the only option being put forward is low-interest loans, but that is simply
“With ongoing cost-of-living pressures, many family farms are already stretched by high fuel, feed, and fertiliser costs. What they are asking for is not a handout, it’s targeted, timely support to keep them going
The Bureau of Meteorology’s seasonal outlook points to a likelihood of below-average rainfall and warmer-than-usual daytime temperatures across much of southern NSW
While some parts of the region received light rainfall in June, the DPI notes it has not been enough to ease pressure on pastures or
“Farming always has its ups and downs, but that is exactly why it’s important government is proactive in its response,” Ms Cooke
“Having a well-communicated plan in place would give landholders some muchneeded certainty as they make decisions for
GATHER AND GLOW AT THE 2025 RURAL WOMEN’S GATHERING IN HARDEN
Rural, regional, and remote women from across New South Wales are invited to Harden Murrumburrah for the Gather & Glow Rural Women’s Gathering on Saturday, 13 September 2025, at the Harden Country Club for an inspiring one-day event that celebrates resilience, connection, and growth.
After the success of last year’s event, which was proudly supported by Women NSW, the committee felt inspired to keep the momentum going.
“We’ve decided to run a similar event this year, one that continues to celebrate and empower rural women, while building on the incredible energy and connections we saw last time,” committee member Antonia Brown said.
This year’s special guest speaker is Grace Brennan, founder of Buy From The Bush.
Grace is passionate about storytelling and communitydriven change, Grace is a writer, speaker, collaborator, and community builder.
She is a proud advocate for
regional Australia and women in business.
Workshops are a mix of hands-on experiences and reflective listening aimed to nourish and uplift both mind and body.
Whether crafting floral arrangements, exploring selfcare strategies though art, learning about your female physiology and mental health, relaxing with yoga, or learning about working together to achieve great outcomes in our communities, each workshop offers a space for connection, learning, and renewal.
The day will conclude with a delightful High Tea, and then everyone is welcome stay on and enjoy the hospitality of the Harden Country Club into the evening.
Harden Murrumburrah
Rural Women’s Gathering
- Gather & Glow is proudly organised by a dedicated group of local women who recognise the deep need for events like this where stories are shared, confidence is rekindled, and community spirit thrives. Their collaboration and
commitment have brought this vision to life.
“Gather & Glow is a space for women to reconnect with themselves, each other, and their purpose,” Antonia said.
“It’s about shining light on the strength within our communities.”
The event is proudly supported by many local businesses, please thank them with your support: Squadron Energy, Graymont, NSW Farmers Harden/ Boorowa Branch, Harden Country Club, Bees to Honey Marketing, HRDC, AgriWebb, Syngenta, RAMPH and Oxton Park.
Tickets are limited so get in and book now click on the QR code or at https://events. humanitix.com/gatherand-glow-2025-hardenmurrumburrah
To stay in the loop, follow Harden Murrumburrah Gather & Glow Rural Women’s Gathering on Facebook and Instagram.
For enquiries or more information, contact: Antonia Brown, Phone 0427 862 173 or ruralwomensgathering@ gmail.com.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke supporting Megan Coddington’s Day For Kerry fundraiser at Sim.ple.
Round 8 of winter competition
Round 8 of the Young Combined Hockey Association saw two high intensity games, with the Penguins taking their first win for the season!
While the Vikings have held onto the top spot - the others teams are not far behind.
Redbacks defeated DTS (4-1)
Goal Scorers: Luke Cosgrove, Zac Williams [2], Tom Wills (Redbacks) and Melissa Wark (DTS)
Penguins defeated Vikings (3-1)
Goal Scorers: Juninia Mahika, Melwyn Makana, Timothy Roberts (Penguins), and Andrew Pratt (Vikings).
Well done to all teams and players who took the field.
Thank you to the umpires: Luke Cosgrove, Michael Skillen, Michael Adams and Brendan Sheppard.
There are no games for the remainder of the school holidays.
Round 9 will be taking place on Sunday 27th July.
Packham Cup is on Sunday 20th July - if you would like to play in this, please get in contact.
Please express your interest through messenger or email at youngcombinedhockey@ gmail.com
Registration fee is $25 per player.
- YOUNG COMBINED HOCKEY ASSOCIATION
Fun and friendship through croquet competition
A full week this week for the Young Croquet Club.
What a great friendship day when the Cowra Croquet Club came to visit us at Young for a social day of play.
In all twenty two players took part on the day.
The Cowra visitors arrived in a mini bus which added to their day.
Norma McLennan and Sue Ryan played in a carnival at Wagga, where Norma did very well but came home exhausted because of so many games.
Up to seven games in one day.
Well done ladies to fare so well, particularly with the weather conditions.
From the notice board:
Names to the games captain please. AGM listed for August 20 at 11.30am.
All memberships are now due.
You must be a financial member prior to the AGM to vote or accept nomination.
Membership fees $75.
Club singles to be played from August 1 to August 11.
Sorry to hear a number of members are not well at the moment, wishing them a speedy recovery.
top heading into Round 11
Devils and Yabbies pick up wins while Boorowa looks to bounce back Hawks on
After securing another win against the Binalong Brahmans over the weekend the Harden Hawks have secured their spot at the top of the ladder in the George Tooke Shield.
The Hawks were too strong for the Brahmans bringing home the win 12-14.
Tries for the Hawks were scored by Drew Arabin and Jayden Cutting with Zakaia Lewis converting two and a penalty goal.
The Boorowa Rovers had the bye for the weekend, however the results in the other games were:
Googong Goannas 0Bungendore Tigers 68 North Canberra Bears 24Crookwell Green Devils 30 UC Stars 18 - Snowy River Bears 24
The ladder heading into round 11 stands as:
1 Harden Hawks 14 points with seven wins and one loss having played 8 games
2 Bungendore Tigers 13 points with six wins, one loss and one draw having played 8 games
3 Crookwell Green Devils 12 points with six wins, two losses having played 8 games
4 Boorowa Rovers 10 points with five wins, two losses having played 7 games
5 Binalong Brahmans on 9 points with four wins, three losses and one draw having played 8 games
6 Snowy River Bears 8 points with four wins, four losses having played 8 games
7 North Canberra Bears 4 points with two wins, six losses having played 8 games
8 Googong Goannas 2 points with one win, seven losses and played 8 games
9 UC Stars 0 points, nine losses and nine games played
The draw for this weekend is:
Binalong Brahmans vs Crookwell Green Devils at Binalong Recreation Oval 2.15pm on Saturday.
Boorowa Rovers vs Harden Hawks at the Boorowa Showground 2.30pm on Saturday.
Googong Goannas vs UC Stars at Duncan Playing Fields 2.30pm on Saturday.
Bungendore Tigers vs North Canberra Bears 2.30pm at Mick Sherd Oval on Saturday.
Snowy River Bears have the bye.
The Harden Hawkettes continue with their winning form after defeating the Brahmans 8-14 last weekend at Binalong Recreation Oval.
The Hawkettes are sitting at the top of the ladder after playing seven games with 14 points and seven wins with closest rivals North Canberra, also on 14 points, having played eight games so far this season.
The Hawkettes have a bye this weekend.
The top of the ladder Goldies have suffered their first defeat of the 2025 season in a very close game against the Temora Tuskers last Saturday.
The final score at the Temora Recreation Ground was 32-31 with a penalty goal securing the win for the Tuskers.
“The men struggled against a very tough and skilled Temora side who kicked a winning penalty from about 42m out right at the end of the game,” the Boorowa Rugby Club said.
Tries for the Goldies were made by Michael Berry, Toby McGrath x2 and two others scored with Josh Carmody converting three for the side.
Though the loss is bitter, the boys remain strong at the top of the ladder and will be looking to bounce back this weekend when they play at home against the West Wyalong Weevils.
The Red Devils faced off against the Weevils in West Wyalong last Saturday and brought home a convincing win 10-29.
Tries for the Red Devils were scored by Blake Logan, Edward Mcgeoch, Joe Stewart, Jack Alcorn and one other player with Glover converting two.
The Red Devils are only five points behind the top of the table Goldies and will be looking to continue their winning form when they face off against the Yabbies at the Harden Rugby Club this Saturday.
The Yabbies picked up another win last Friday defeating the Grenfell Panthers 28-31 under the lights at Grenfell Rugby Club.
After a mixed start to the season for the Yabbies they have now moved up to fourth place on the ladder behind the Tri Colours, Red Devils and Goldies.
This weekend the boys will go into battle at Harden against the Red Devils in what is sure to be a match not to be missed as the boys look to secure their spot in the top four.
In the Women’s Xs competition the Tuskers proved to be too strong for the Goldilocks who were short on players with the side going down 52-17.
The Yabbiettes however, took a win in Grenfell against the Pink Panthers bringing home victory 17-22.
This weekend the Goldilocks will be going up against the West Wyalong Redbacks at 2pm at the Boorowa Rugby Club and the Yabbiettes will have a bye.
Pickers looking to retain form against Coota
Following the general bye last weekend the Cherrypickers will be looking to retain their form when they go up against the Cootamundra Bulldogs this Sunday in Cootamundra.
The Pickers are currently sitting just outside the top four on the table with 12 points with six wins and five losses under their belt after 11 rounds.
The side has scored a whopping 303 points for the side and had only 194 points scored against.
The boys are the second highest scoring side in the competition with the only other side to outscore them being the top of the ladder Wagga Kangaroos with 406 points for.
With the side going up against the Bulldogs this weekend the Cootamundra side is sitting in ninth on the ladder with two wins and nine losses under their belts so far this season.
The Reggies are currently sitting in seventh on the ladder heading into round 12 with the side having 8
points, four wins and seven losses.
The boys have scored 188 points and had 236 points scored against them.
They will be looking to dig deep and dispatch the Bulldogs this weekend who are currently sitting in ninth on the Reserve Grade ladder with two points, one in and 10 losses to their name.
The Under 18s Pickers are currently sitting in second place on their ladder with 10 games played, 18 points, eight wins and two losses.
The boys have the most points scored in the competition with 276 points scored for and 158 points against.
This weekend they will be taking on the third placed Bulldogs at Coota.
The games this Sunday will be played at Les Boyd Oval, Fisher Park in Cootamundra.
League Tag - 10am
Under 18s - 11am
Reserve Grade - 1.20pm
First Grade - 2.35pm
PHOTO: Young Cherrypickers RLFC
Three sticks and a putter medley 4BBB
The Saturday event for men was a “3 sticks and a putter medley 4BBB”.
Sponsored by Gavin Marshall & Craig Watson.
The winners were Swayde and Wayne Honeman with 46 points from Ray Hargraves and Craig Webber with 42 points on a countback.
The worst individual score was won by Laurie Brown. The Watson Toyota NTP on the 7th was won by Cameron Clark and the 17th was won by Craig Webber.
The Pro Pin on the 7th was won by Cameron Clark and he receives a voucher for $62.
The Terry Brothers Carpet Court secret birdie hole was the 16th and was not won.
The Deluxe Blinds & Shutters Eagles nest jackpot of $200 on the first was not won and remains at $200 next week.
The Ian Page Bricklaying card draw was won by Craig Webber.
The Salami Brother Pizza award were won by Matthew Brown and Matthew McKnight.
Balls went down to 39 points on a countback and there were 58 players.
Upcoming events:
Saturday 19th July - NRL Challenge - Single Stableford. Wear your team colours. Sponsored by Geoff Hill. The event is also the first round of Handiskins. Handiskins costs $40 to enter and is played over 5 rounds. Your best three rounds count.
Saturday 26th July - Tester Porter Services Two Person Ambrose. Minimum of six drives each player - must have three drives on the front nine and three drives on the back nine.
The Wednesday Medley was won by Jim Beath with 41 points and he won 8 balls.
Runner up was Allan Moore (6 balls) with 40 points from Hugo Davidson (5 balls) with 38 points.
Club Fours champions named
Congratulations to the team of Ted Loader, George Somerville, Tom Glover and Brian Madden on winning the Club Fours Championship.
On Saturday afternoon they played Michael Webb, Darryle Miller, Rod Cummings (substitute) and Glen Benson in a semi–final.
This was a game of two completely different halves. After the first 9 ends had been completed Glen’s team led 14 to 4.
From that point on Brian’s team lost only one end and ran out winners by 24 shots to 17.
The final was played on Sunday afternoon with Brian’s team opposed to Brian McNair, Joe Read, Jonathon Watson and David Quigley.
As expected, this was a close contest from start to finish with the scores level on 5 occasions.
After 7 ends the score was 6–all and by the completion of the 12th end it was 9–all.
With 4 ends to play it was 13–all
Grant Harding (4 balls) was fourth with 37 points, Daryl Brown (3 balls) had 36 points on a countback from Patrick FitzGerald (2 balls).
The Pro Pin was won by Steve Dewar and he received a voucher for $29.
Balls went down to 29 points on a countback and there were 48 players.
The Friday medley was not played due to the weather but will return next week.
Welcome aboard to WDs Quality Cuts as our new sponsor of the Sunday medley.
The winner was Jack Daley with 42 points and he won a voucher for $30 from WDs Quality Cuts and 6 golf balls.
Dean Schofield (4 balls) was runner up with 35 points from Michael Duval (3 balls) with 34 points.
Fourth was Ray Hargraves (2 balls) with 33 points on a countback.
The Watson Toyota secret birdie jackpot of $90 was not struck and the jackpot will be $120 next week.
Balls went to 27 points and there were 29 players.
The Sunday morning Social Club played a 14 hole event which was won by Casey Ashton.
The runner up was Will Albert and third was Mark Hurcum.
There were 24 players.
- CRAIG WATSON
and with a score of 2 shots on the 18th end David’s team led 15–13. Brian’s team won the final 3 ends and scored a total of 8 shots to win the game 21–15. Congratulations to both teams on a hard–fought contest.
The rain and cold conditions prevented any play on Thursday for the second week in a row.
The very doubtful morning conditions on Saturday saw just 6 players for jackpot bowls.
Tom Preston, Albert Carter and Jono Watson completely dominated the scoring in the triples game to win 25–6.
The draws for the Riverina Murray Fours Championships for 2025–26 are on the notice board and the skips of the teams involved have been advised of their initial games.
Players are reminded that there is information on the notice board concerning a qualifying round of the
BPL Cup to be played at Young on Sunday 3rd August.
Entry details for the Region Triples Championships are now on display. Entries should be made at the club and close on 31st July.
An entry form for the 2025 President’s Day for the Men’s Bowling Club is on the notice board and entries can be made as a team of four or as individual players.
- CLIFF TRAYNOR
Yabbies shine in Lions opener
A group of enthusiastic Junior Yabbies were treated to a once-in-a-lifetime experience at GIO Stadium last week, thanks to Brumbies Women’s Rugby Head, James Erwin.
Ben Reid, President of the Junior Yabbies, said the invitation came directly from the Brumbies.
“The Brumbies reached out to some of the Southern Inland teams to be part of the night,” he said.
“It was a pretty rare opportunity, something that only comes around once every 12 years.”
As part of the Brumbies’ broader Southern Inland outreach, teams from across the region were invited to take part in the historic Brumbies vs British and Irish Lions fixture on July 9. Among them were the Junior Young Yabbies girls teams, who took to the field in a tri-tag exhibition match.
Thirty junior players, along with parents and family members, travelled to Canberra for the event.
Each player received a complimentary ticket along with one for a parent or guardian.
“It was a very rare chance for the kids to experience something like this, being on the field in front of such a massive crowd,” Ben said.
The Yabbies’ presence was felt throughout the evening,
not just during their match, but as they formed the tunnel for the main game and made appearances on the stadium’s big screen.
It was a night to remember, and one that undoubtedly made a lasting impression on the club’s youngest stars.
The British and Irish Lions only travel to Australia once every 12 years, with the squad currently on tour playing the likes of the Wallabies, Waratahs, Brumbies, Argentina.
The Start of the Australian leg of their tour saw the Western Force trounced by the Lions 7-54, the Reds were defeated by the visiting squad 12-52 on July 2 then the side took out the Waratahs 10-21 only a couple of days later, it was a little closer in their game against the Brumbies who put up a good fight but ultimately were out performed by the Lions 24-36, the AUNZ Invitational last Saturday saw the
Lions the winners 0-48. This weekend the Lions will be facing off against the Wallabies on Saturday at 8pm before the squad takes on First Nationas and Pasifika XV on Tuesday and then backs up against the Wallabies on Saturday July 26 and Saturday August 2. If you aren’t one of the lucky locals to get tickets to any of the matches, all games can be watched on Stan Sport and Channel 9.
