TCW05032025

Wednesday March 5, 2025

Volume 40 No. 07

$2 inc. GST

The Cobar Weekly Cr Deighton calls for a clear Grand plan Pg 3

Schools and community groups benefit Pg 4

Proposed change to speed limit Pg 6

Cobar Water Board working to find a solution

The Cobar Water Board and Cobar Shire “He mentioned the establishment of a camp ness case be made available to Cobar Shire Council are working with State Member for for the workforce to do the job.

Council and Cobar Water Board, ahead of a Barwon Roy Butler to find some possible “I have no idea what that entails,” he said. meeting with the Water Minister, Rose Jackways forward to replace the Nyngan to Co- Cr Marsden said the design and costings for son. bar water pipeline.

Cr Marsden has also sent a letter to Minister the project haven’t been released yet.

Mr Butler was in town last Thursday and met “They’re ‘commercial in confidence’ in Jackson regarding a review of the project with Cobar Water Board members and Council Cabinet.” based on the increase in the risk profile. staff.

Mr Butler has requested a copy of the busi- Continued Page 2.

“It was disappointing to hear that the government has decided to pause the project to replace the Nyngan to Cobar water pipeline,” Mr Butler said.

“The existing pipeline is ageing and at risk of failure, which would leave the people of Cobar without a reliable source of water.

“A business case that has been prepared puts the cost at around $300 million, but this document has not been made public,” Mr Butler said.

“Cobar’s Mayor Jarrod Marsden said that he believes $300 million is a huge overestimate and includes unnecessary items.”

Cr Marsden briefed councillors at last week’s Ordinary Council Meeting on a discussion he had with an executive officer from the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) about the project.

“It was clear from that conversation that the scope of work that makes up the $300 million does not only include simply the pipeline,” Cr Marsden told the meeting.

“There was conversation around how the scope includes the third pump station at the water storages [in Cobar].

“That wasn’t included in the original pump station grant we’ve already received and it also includes a lot of work on the raw water piping State Member for Barwon Roy Butler met with the Cobar Water Board and Cobar Shire system through town because he mentioned about digging up half the golf course,” Cr Council staff last Thursday in Cobar to discuss possible ways forward for the replacement of our water pipeline. Photo contributed Marsden said.

News

Water board working to find a solution Mayor provides Council update Continued from Page 1.

“Times are tight, there is not a bottomless pit Cr Marsden said he was very concerned the of money. The government’s got a COVID bill NSW Government’s Final Business Case was to pay back. only a snapshot of the last three to five years in “We know that and so not every project can Cobar when the Endeavor Mine had not been be funded,” Cr Marsden said. in operation.

“We completely understand that and when “I’ve asked for a review of the project imme- they see a $300 million number put in front of diately based on 1. that increase in the risk them, I can understand why they balk at it. profile and 2. with the costings.

“But the reality is that the number is not real “Anyone can look at that number and say it is and we need to understand the detailed design.” ridiculous,” Cr Marsden said.

Cr Marsden said when they know what’s in “We need to understand the scope so we can the design, they can meet with Minister Jacksee the inclusions.” son “to try and nut out a way forward”.

Cr Marsden said he un“To see whether or not we “The danger is that the longer can take a staged apderstood the NSW Government would be wary the government waits, the more proach and see if we can about spending that sort of expensive it will be to replace,” get some money now to money however he —Roy Butler. do either the next section thought Council was “a of piping, or the worst little bit of a victim and we’ve been tarred with section of piping.” the same brush”.

Mr Butler agreed with Cr Marsden.

He said the DCCEEW executive officer gave “Given that the council has already replaced a the Dubbo bridge project as an example.

30km section of pipeline in 2017 for $9 million “It started at $70 million and is now at about dollars, well under the estimated budget of $17 $120 million. million, the mayor believes that the worst af“It’s obvious to me that there’s been a di- fected parts of the pipeline could be replaced rective from the government that they don’t for far less than the business case suggests,” Mr want to see projects come out and start and Butler said. have cost blowouts, and quite rightly so.

“The danger is that the longer the government “But I think the overreaction from all the waits, the more expensive it will be to replace. government departments is to just add massive “It is important that the work start as soon as contingencies to all the project pricing so that possible even if it is just on the sections of the they never do go over. pipeline most in need of replacing,” Mr Butler “I think our project is a victim of that. said.

It’s been positive news with Cobar Shire Council receiving just north of $3 million for the Grand precinct planning phase.

This will allow five projects highlighted in the Community Strategic Plan to progress to being “shovel ready” with detailed designs completed.

Not so positive is the news that our pipeline replacement project is being put on hold.

We are committed to working with the government to see this project progress more quickly given the changing state of play with Endeavor coming back to full production.

It’s simply a risk that cannot be tolerated at any level.

I might be jinxing us, but we are very close to going through a summer period without any water restrictions, which I can’t recall happening for a very long time and, while we have been blessed with a relatively wet and mild summer, it shows that the revised drought and water management plans, along with great work from staff managing old and temperamental pumps and pipes, are paying dividends for our ratepayers.

This week I head to Dubbo for a meeting of the Western Alliance of Councils where we will hear from representatives of the Murray Darling Basin Plan, Regional Development Orana (RDA), Regional Planning NSW, and Telstra where I am sure we will very rigorously discuss the massive issues we have seen around the end of 3G. I am also planning trips to Sydney to see the Water Minister and to Canberra to speak with the Minister for Aged Care regarding funding for our Lilliane Brady Village.—Mayor Jarrod Marsden

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Page 2 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday March 5, 2025

News

Cr Deighton calls for a clear plan for the Grand Precinct Cr Chris Deighton has called for careful consideration before Cobar Shire Council progresses with its plan to create a Grand Precinct in the main street.

Council’s general manager Peter Vlatko apprised councillors about the recent federal Government Grand Precinct grant funding win at last week’s Ordinary Council Meeting.

Mr Vlatko said the funding win of almost $3.5 million was “a significant achievement” for Council as nearly all the other recipients were cities.

“The staff will now be preparing a clear path on how this is going to be delivered, remembering it’s only for the actual design ready for DA ready for construction,” Mr Vlatko said.

The project includes the Grand Hotel, library, the town hall, main street and the Brennan Centre.

Mr Vlatko said it was a great opportunity to have shovel ready plans.

He said they are however “hanging our hats on” the Federal Government to also fund the construction.

“Otherwise, we’ve wasted a lot of money just doing the planning and design,” Mr Vlatko said.

Cr Deighton warned councillors that construction of more infrastructure will put further pressure on Council with regards to ongoing maintenance and upkeep.

“We’ve really got to nut it out in the work- Cobar Shire Council has been successful in gaining a grant to plan and design a Grand shops,” he said.

Precinct in Cobar’s CBD with the Grand Hotel to be the centrepiece. It’s still unsure Cr Deighton said in particular Council would need to look closely at what’s to be what the main function of the building will be. At the moment it’s an advertising tool for done with the very old town hall building and The Pub Route tourism initative of the Far North West Joint Organisation. what it will be used for.

“We’ve got Ward Oval down there, at $4.5 million not getting very utilised at the moment.”

Cr Deighton said they would need a clear plan for the Grand Precinct going forward “and not just have it there and throw moth balls in”.

Guest speakers are lined up for Women’s Day

Aurelia Metals/Peak Gold Mines has teamed up with the Cobar Business Association to celebrate International Women’s Day this Saturday.

Aurelia is hosting a morning tea at their Community Hub in Marshall Street and the business association has lined up some guest speakers for the event.

Business woman Naomi Jesse Huston, from Nome’s Custom Cleaning, will speak about how she turned her passion for cleaning into a successful business that now employs 16 staff.

Business woman and sportswoman Trudy Griffiths will talk about gender inequity she’s faced in sport.

Trudy will also speak about the Girls in Motorsport mentoring program her daughter Chloe is participating in.

Laura Newton will also give a brief outline of the valuable contributions that females make to Peak Gold Mine’s operations and other roles within the company.

Peak’s apprentice electrician, Kristy Neate will also speak about working in a nontraditional female role.

Everyone is welcome to attend.

Wednesday March 5, 2025 The Cobar Weekly Page 3

News

Once upon a time ...

A free seniors short story writing workshop was held at the Cobar Shire Library yesterday under the tutelage of published author Cate Plink. (Cate is pictured above centre at rear with participants Shirley Harbison, Bev Anderson, Lillian Simpson and Julie Fairbank.) Participants did some writing exercises and discussed story structure and point of view in the two hour workshop. The best 25 stories from across NSW will be published in the 2025 Seniors Stories publication.

Cobar man charged after breaking in Police have arrested a 35 year old Cobar The 35 year old was arrested by Cobar Poman and charged him with break, enter and lice at about 4pm on February 26 at an address steal, as well as possessing a prohibited in Mathews Street. drug.

The man was taken to Cobar Police Station The arrest was made after police investiga- where he was searched and a small amount of tions into a report of a break, enter and steal cannabis was located in his possession. that occurred at a premises in Becker Street on He was charged with break, enter and steal, February 19. and possess prohibited drug.

Page 4 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday March 5, 2025

Donations handed out to 11 groups Four local schools and 11 community and sporting groups are the beneficiaries of Cobar Shire Council’s annual donations program this year.

Councillors voted at last week’s Ordinary Council Meeting to support the 11 groups to the tune of $2,000 each.

The Cobar Amateur Pistol Club’s donation will go towards their rates and the Cobar Senior Citizens Amenities Organisation (Brennan Centre) will also use their donation for rates along with water charges.

Cobar Clay Target Club’s donation will assist with the costs of their 48th Annual Golden Clay event.

Cobar Auto Club’s donation will help with their rates, water and insurance costs.

Cobar Pony Club will use their donation for rates and utility support.

Cobar Show Society’s $2,000 will enable them to expand the show program this year.

Cobar Touch Football’s donation will help with their lighting costs.

Cobar Girl Guides’ donation will go towards their rates and their licence fee.

The donation to Nymagee CWA Branch will help with rates and electricity costs.

The donation to Rural Outback Animal Rescue/Respite (ROAR) will help with vet and food expenses and go towards mesh fencing of the animal enclosure.

Cobar Arts Council will use their donation for their lease fees on their premises.

Cobar High School, Cobar Public School and St John’s Primary School will each receive $200 of Cobar Quids to assist with their end of year awards ceremonies and Euabalong West Public School will get $200 cash to assist with its end of year awards ceremony.

As part of the program, Council also makes a contribution towards water at the Tom Knight Oval (up to $25,000 for the year).

Wednesday March 5, 2025 The Cobar Weekly Page 5

News

Smoke hanging heavy in the air The smell of smoke was hanging heavy in Officer Moore said they also investigated a the air over Cobar on the weekend with 000 call out on Saturday night just after 7pm residents concerned about the possibility of on the Hillston Road just west of the Peak a bushfire however there was no cause for Gold Mine. alarm.

Officer Moore said the landholder had an The Rural Fire Service (RFS) Far West active permit for a controlled burn and Team and the Fire and Rescue NSW through calls and permit checks, it was (FRNSW) Cobar Brigade 256 both received deemed safe and all in hand. calls over the past week from concerned resi- He reminded residents that RFS permits are dents about being able to smell smoke. still required until the end of March.

RFS Operational Officer David Moore said Permits are free and applications are availapersonnel attended the Cobar Golf Course on ble online.

Friday morning to investigate after receiving several local calls of smoke in the local vicinity.

“Upon arrival on scene it was noted that the smoke was from several piles of green waste material that was raked from under the trees Cobar Police are investigating reports of and surrounds,” Officer Moore said. two fights involving school students that “Site personnel were on scene and no cause occurred last Wednesday. for alarm or concern was noted.”

Officer Moore said they had investigated on About 3pm police attended Cobar High behalf of FRNSW as we were in the area, but School following reports of several students normally a fire within the town limits falls fighting at the school.

Upon police arrival the fight had ceased and under FRNSW’s jurisdiction. most of the people involved had left the locaOfficer Moore reminded residents that all fires within town limits need a permit year tion.

Police were later called to Khans IGA Suround.

(Information about permits can be obtained permarket in the main street at about 5pm following a report of school students fighting from FRNSW.) outside the supermarket.

By the time police had arrived, the students Have you visited our had dispersed. website lately?

Investigations are continuing into these matwww.cobarweekly.com.au ters.

Police investigate two teen fights

Page 6 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday March 5, 2025

Proposed speed limit change Cobar Shire Council will undertake a public consultation with regards to extending the 50kph speed limit along the Barrier Highway on the eastern approach to town.

Currently the area is an 80kph zone.

Council’s new director of engineering Amer Tawfik put the recommendation to last week’s Ordinary Council Meeting.

Mr Tawfik reported that Council had received requests from developers and businesses on the Nyngan Road to extend the 50kmh speed limit further to the east of Hartman Street.

“The main objective is to increase accessibility to the industrial area in the Cobar township,” Mr Tawfik told councillors.

He requested approval to undertake public consultation on the matter which includes consultation and feedback with the community and with police, conducting traffic counts, and reporting vehicle speeds and the percentage of light and heavy vehicle usage.

Changes to speed limits on roads within Cobar Shire require approval from Transport for NSW (TfNSW).

Council can initiate the process by submitting a formal request.

Cr Nigel Vagg questioned if it was an unnecessary expense for Council, and said he “can’t see there’s much advantage to it”.

Mr Amer advised costs for implementing the speed reduction in terms of signage and pavement marking are funded by TfNSW.

News

CSA Mine invests in MicroDOTS as a new form of insurance MAC Copper Limited have invested in a job easier. we identify that its got this code on it then we new form of insurance for their assets at the “If we come across somebody that we sus- can make some enquiries about where it CSA Mine and are branding all tools and pect has property that might not belong to comes from and it makes it easy to identify equipment on site with MicroDOTS. them, we shine the identifying tool over it and who owns it,” Sergeant Laing said.

MicroDOT Australia’s managing director Neil McCormack gave mine staff, local police, Cobar Shire Council’s ranger and The Cobar Weekly a demonstration on how MicroDOTS work on site last week.

“Basically it’s an identification program for assets.

“The easiest way to explain it is a modern way to engrave,” Neil said.

MicroDOTS are tiny metallic particles that are nearly invisible to the naked eye.

They are chemically etched with a unique identification code which is registered permanently to the company.

“We use it to mark (with a couple of different types of glue) all the assets—all the power tools, all the hand tools, whatever other assets they choose to mark that may be subject to theft,” Neil explained.

“So firstly, it’s a deterrent to thieves.

“That’s the main crux of the program and secondly, it’s an ability to identify assets if they’re found.”

Once applied the MicroDOTS can only be removed by an abrasive material such as a scalpel, knife, sandpaper or heavy acid, all of which will most certainly damage the item and decrease its resale value for a thief.

And because a single item may contain many MicroDOTS, the thief can never be sure he has removed all the MicroDOTS. Police only need to find and read a single MicroDOT managing director Neil McCormack, CSA Mine’s mobile maintenance MicroDOT to identify the rightful owner. manager Brandt Pattison, Cobar Shire Council ranger Daryl Kliendienst and Cobar Neil explained MicroDOTS have been Police Sergeant Warwick Laing at last week’s MicroDOT demonstration at the CSA Mine around since World War II in some form or site. other.

During WWII microdots were used in ordinary looking letters with secret information hidden in periods (full stops) at the end of sentences.

Neil said after they were commercialized, BMW started putting them on their cars, spraying about 10,000 of them all over in about 80 different locations.

“It reduced their theft by 78 per cent,” Neil said.

He said a couple of different glues are used to adhere the MicroDOTS to assets, depending upon what they are made of and the environment they are used in.

Neil said the MicroDOTS have been endorsed by Rio Tinto who used them at their Argyle Diamond site, “which is as harsh of an environment as you can get”.

“They took their theft problem to zero overnight,” he said.

The MicroDOTS are a very hardy product that can also withstand commercial tool washers.

“They can adhere to everything—metals, woods, plastics and certainly our laptops and mobile phones.”

As part of the program, warning signs about the MicroDOTS are put up at all entrances, in communal areas and on stickers on the items themselves.

“So everybody’s warned about the program, staff and subbies,” Neil said.

“There’s no secrecy here, the company’s seriously protecting their assets, that’s the program.

“It’s pretty simple, if you’re going to steal it, be warned that it’s marked.”

Cobar Police Sergeant Warwick Laing said MicroDOTS are going to help make their Wednesday March 5, 2025 The Cobar Weekly Page 7

News

Longterm grazing permits for TSRs Livestock producers in NSW are invited drought, feed shortages and other emergento apply for long term grazing access to cies. Successful tenderers are expected to select Travelling Stock Reserves (TSR). contribute to positive land management pracTender submissions are now open for Long tices on the TSR, such as controlling pests Term Grazing Permits, which are valid for up and weeds and protecting biodiversity. to five years from July 2025.

“Collaboratively, we can ensure TSR are Permits are allocated via a robust tender well maintained and managed effectively for process led by Local Land Services (LLS). years to come.

LLS Program Lead TSR, Sam Hand, said “While select, carefully assessed TSR are strategic grazing played an essential role in eligible for Long Term Grazing Permits, all effective TSR management. are available by application for short-term “TSR are widely valued for biodiversity access and reserve use permits.” conservation, Indigenous culture and recrea- Applicants are required to inspect the TSR tion, as well as their traditional use for travel- before making a submission, to ensure it is fit ling stock and grazing,” Mr Hand said. for their intended grazing usage.

“Long Term Grazing Permits allow produc- In NSW, there are more than 6,500 TSR on ers to make long-term business decisions and Crown land, covering an area of around two access TSR for extra fodder to support million hectares. healthy livestock, particularly during times of LLS manages about 30 per cent of the state’s TSR network, which is approximately 578,000 hectares.

Have you visited our website lately?

For further information about Long Term www.cobarweekly.com.au Grazing Permits, visit www.lls.nsw.gov.au

Page 8 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday March 5, 2025

Beer excise freeze will be welcomed Clubs Australia has welcomed the Federal Government’s announcement that in August 2025 it will freeze excise on draught beer for at least the next two years.

Clubs Australia Executive Director Rebecca Riant said in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis, this was great news for the hospitality industry and their patrons.

“The fact that the excise freeze only applies to draught beer poured in venues is a great incentive for people to get out and enjoy time with friends and family in the comfortable surrounds of a registered club,” Ms Riant said.

“Excise has increased no fewer than 83 times since it was introduced in 1983, making the price of a schooner increasingly hard to swallow.

“Prime Minister Anthony Albanese should be commended for this move,” she said.

“We’d call on the Federal Opposition to adopt the same stance on excise, to provide certainty for industry and beer lovers across the country.”

Cobar Bowling & Golf Club secretary/ manager Jason Howell said the move would be welcomed by the club and their patrons.

“We haven’t put them up [beer prices] over the last three CPI rises, that’s been by instruction by the board.

“The club wants to have reasonably well priced beer,” Jason said.

Secretary/manager of the Cobar Services Club Linda Carter said the beer excise is “a pittance compared to the excise on spirits”.

“The beer excise goes up 10 or 20 cents each time which is not much in the scheme of things,” Linda said.

“They should be freezing the excise on spirits. It’s very high, it’s 64 per cent!”

News

Council gives re-building rugby club a rate reduction Cobar Shire Council has granted the Co- ing when councillors voted on the matter.

“This assistance has certainly come at the bar Rugby Club a reduction on their rates They voted in favour of the motion. right time and will keep us viable.” and raw water costs as the club goes Cobar Rugby Club president Peter Payne Mr Payne said the news will be greatly welthrough a rebuilding phase. said “it’s exceptional news for the club”. comed by the grounds maintenance team who Mayor Jarrod Marsden, a former president “This will be in the best interests of our have been very mindful of the amount of waof the rugby club, proposed to last week’s struggling club, and the club certainly appre- ter they have been using to keep the oval goOrdinary Council Meeting that Council sup- ciates it!” Mr Payne said. ing. ports the club with a 50 per cent rates subsidy and a $10,000 subsidy on their raw water costs (capped at three years support) while the club is unable to field a team.

In his motion Cr Marsden said the Club had been “a major contributor to the shire for over 50 years, providing a team sport environment and a place for country people to connect, network and socialise”.

“Over the years the shire and businesses of Cobar have benefited greatly through the purchasing from many Cobar businesses, the spending by away teams when they have visited Cobar, the exposure created by the international game against Wales, and the visit by Governor Marie Bashir at the club’s 50 year celebrations,” Cr Marsden said.

“Unfortunately the club finds itself in a position where it is unable to field a team in the 2025 competition and, as such, does not have the financial benefit of home game generated income or sponsorship.

“The committee continues to work hard in the background with fundraising through Return and Earn which will cover insurances, however it will not be enough, and the club seeks support from the council of the shire that has benefited so much from the club over The Cobar and District Rugby Union Football Club has been thrown a lifeline with the years,” Cr Marsden said.

Cr Marsden excused himself from the meet- Cobar Shire Council subsidising their rates and water as the club re-builds.

Wednesday March 5, 2025 The Cobar Weekly Page 9

News

Summer set to linger a little longer Making menstrual education part of Women’s Week After a scorching hot weekend with over We had some reprieve on Monday with the 40 degrees reported on both days, the ther- Bureau recording a top of 36.8 degrees, which mometer has dropped slightly, but we’re is still 6.6 degrees above average. still in for more very warm days ahead.

The nights have continued to be warm also The Bureau of Meteorology recorded a top with the thermometer only dropping to 26.2 of 40.9 degrees in Cobar on Saturday and 40.1 overnight on Wednesday (which is six degrees degrees on Sunday. above average).

Saturday’s 40.9 degrees is 10.7 degrees The forecast for the week ahead is for more warmer than the long term average for this warm days with 35 degrees the expected maxtime of the year but thankfully lower than the imum for today, tomorrow and Friday. highest March maximum of 42.3 degrees It’s looking like a nice weekend with 31 the which was recorded on March 19, 2023. expected maximum on Saturday and 29 on It was a very warm final week of summer Sunday. last week with Wednesday reaching a top of The Bureau is predicting possible showers 40.9, Thursday got to 41 and 39.1 degrees was on Sunday with up to 3mm of rain. the maximum temperature recorded on Friday. More showers and up to 2mm of rain is expected on Monday along with a top of 30 degrees.

Have you visited our The nights will also still be warm with 19 degrees expected overnight tonight, tomorrow website lately? night and Saturday while Friday’s forecast is www.cobarweekly.com.au similar with a minimum of 20 degrees expected overnight.

Social Fun Day

All Welcome

Two education events are planned for Cobar which aim to empower girls aged 10 to 12 years by fostering understanding and confidence around their menstrual health.

The education sessions, one aimed at young women and another for teachers and community leaders, are being coordinated by Interrelate and Share the Dignity.

Funded by a $15,000 grant, awarded by Women NSW as part of the NSW Government 2025 Women’s Week Grants program, events are being planned in Cobar, Bourke and Coonamble during Women’s Week this week.

With a long history of engagement and advocacy in the Cobar, Bourke and Coonamble communities, Interrelate’s locally based First Nations Community Development Workers identified a pressing need for comprehensive menstrual education.

Interrelate’s Head of Business Development Clare Henderson said the secrecy and misconceptions often surrounding menstruation are negatively impacting the health and wellbeing of young women, creating barriers to their development and self-esteem.

“Our connections in these communities, combined with our experience as a provider of Relationships and Sexuality Education, really leverages our strengths so we know these events will be fun, educational and confidence building,” Ms Henderson said.

The school-based session for young women with Interrelate’s highly experienced Relationships and Sexuality Education educators will take them through a tailored and culturally safe Managing Menstruation education program.

Every girl will leave empowered and confident plus receive a Share the Dignity teen ‘It’s in the Bag’ filled with personal care items.

Ms Henderson said their goal is to help girls manage their periods with dignity.

The second event for teachers and community leaders will provide them with the latest accurate information and appropriate language around menstruation to help equip those with influence with the knowledge that enables them to create an environment where young women feel safe, supported and empowered.

Share the Dignity founder, Rochelle Courtenay said breaking the shame and stigma around periods starts with education.

“When young girls have the knowledge and confidence to manage their period with dignity, we create a future where no one feels ashamed or left behind,” Ms Courtenay said.

“This partnership allows us to ensure young girls in Western NSW have the information and period products they need to thrive, something that we believe every young person deserves.”

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Page 10 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday March 5, 2025

Stage 1 upgrade works of Cobar’s Industrial Estate are continuing with contractor Cynend Building and Construction currently concentrating on Old Bourke Road. The Stage 1 works include the upgrade of Old Bourke Road between the Barrier Highway and Campbell Street and the full length of Campbell Street between Old Bourke Road and Dunstan Street. The work involves upgrading the existing swale drains to increase their capacity and reduce the impact of localised flooding. Stage 1 work also encompasses the installation of new roadside drainage pipes, inlet pits, new kerbing, upgrading the roads to accommodate oversized vehicles and new asphalt.

March 2025 5 PEAK Donation Applications close 5 Cobar Hospital Auxiliary meeting 7 Entertainment Kimmie Thomas RSL Club 7-8 Entertainment John Peebles at Golfie 8 International Women’s Day Morning Tea 8 Sporting Bodies Dinner at Golfie 10 Seniors Week Walking & Morning Tea 11 Seniors Week Expo at Golfie 11 SITETRAIN Safety Training info session 12 Seniors Week Gala Dinner at Ward Oval 13 Seniors Week Museum Tours 14 Seniors Week Bag decorating workshop 15 Justin Landers at Services Club April 2025 5 Flamenco for Everybody at Services Club 5 Bowls Triples Tournament 6 Bowls Triples President’s Day 11 Entertainment Shelley Minson at Golfie 11-12 Grey Mardi Gras May 2025 24 ‘And Metallica For All’ Band at Golfie 31 Cobar Miners Race Club Autum Races October 2025 4 Cobar Rodeo

• Sadly we have our own Position Vacant track and amenities. This year their project

ad running this week as Caitlan Ayoub, may go unnoticed by the general public but our very brilliant advertising manager is we’re pretty sure the jockeys and trainers leaving us. It’s not because she wants to, will be pleased to know the club has init’s just that … well she’s pregnant! And stalled a new inside running rail and imthat’s wonderful news for Caitlan and her proved the padding in the starting gates. family, but not so great news for us as we’ll • The Cobar Roosters Senior Rugby League hate to see her go. (The boss even offered to Club have announced their Youth League makeover her office into a nursery to entice Grade will be taking a break this year due to challenges with player commitments which Caitlan to stay, but she declined.)

• Sympathy is extended to the family of makes it difficult to field an Under 18s team Shirley Higgins who passed away last week. due to a lack of numbers. The club hopes to Shirley was president of the Lilliane Brady return stronger than ever and be able to field a Village Pink Ladies fundraising group and team in the competition next season. was for many years its main driving force. • We hear Cobar Public School is planning Recently Shirley became a resident of the something extra special to celebrate HarmoVillage where she happily celebrated her 90th ny Week later this month. birthday last February with family, staff and • Bingo is returning to the RSL Club this Sunday. Please note it’s the “normal” Bingo and residents.

• The Cobar Miners Race Club committee is not Colby’s R-Rated Bingo! already busy at work getting ready for their • Sick of the heat yet? Even though it’s aubig race meeting on May 31. The club con- tumn, it seems the warm days are going to tinues to make improvements to the race be with us a bit longer.

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0414 434 554 0414 434 554 0414 434 554 0414 434 554 0414 434 554 0414 434 554 0414 434 554 0414 434 554 0414 434 554 0414 434 554 0414 434 554 0414 434 554 6836 2711 6836 2503 6836 1244

Mick McManus

AMMUNITION

Fairbank AutoPro

AMUSEMENTS

Out West Amusements

AUTOMOTIVE

50Seven Automotive Ces’ Motor Trimming Cobar Toyota MC Spanner SCG Mechanical Superior Diesel Solutions Tilt Automotive

CAMPING SUPPLIES

DOCTORS

Cobar Hunting, Camping & Fishing Dr Indra’s Surgery 6836 4777 0418 539 084 Primary Health Care Centre 6836 5500

CARPENTRY

Country Mile Construction Evoke Building Co Mat Shepherd

CARPET CLEANING WB Carpet Cleaning

CATERING

Classique Catering Haylee Prince

CELEBRANTS

Jennifer Shepherd

CHAINSAWS

DRIVING INSTRUCTORS

0408 220 377 John Bennett-City Country 6836 1408 0423 618 385 0427 272 546 0400 323 049 DRY CLEANING 0419 219 440 BRilliams 6836 2161

EARTHMOVING

0409 443 812 J Prisk Contractors Superior Diesel Solutions

ELECTRICAL SUPPLIES

0429 354 242 Harvey Norman Cobar

ELECTRICIANS

0447 946 622 Gary Ellen Electrical

6836 1111 0428 451 116 Fairbank AutoPro CHEMISTS 6883 2200 0429 363 047 The John Mitchell Pharmacy 6836 2040

ADMIN/SECRETARIAL SERVICES AIR-CONDITIONING

Phone Ted:

0481 103 135

CHILDREN’S SERVICES

BOOKKEEPING BOTTLE SHOP Empire Hotel

J Prisk Contractors

BUTCHERS

J&K Butchery Khan’s SUPA IGA

6836 2124

FABRICS & HABERDASHERY

6882 6533

FIREARM SAFES

6836 2616

FOOTWEAR

5820 0192 6836 3355 6836 4005 0408 054 470 0458 004 611 6836 2737 0427 478 895

CHURCHES

Cobar Baptist Church Cobar Seventh-day Adventist Church Generocity Church St Laurence O’Toole Catholic Church

6836 1251 6836 1111

0429 363 047 Harvey Norman Cobar 6836 2725

FACE PAINTING

Bekstar Face Painting

0427 927 794

FISHING SUPPLIES

Cobar Hunting, Camping & Fishing 0418 539 084 R & G Thompson

0417 706 222

BRilliams

6836 2161

0428 425 590 FUNERAL SERVICES 0428 061 397 Walsh Funerals FURNITURE 6836 2780 0408 437 976 Stationery Essentials

Cobar Memorial Services Club 6836 2102 Empire Hotel 6836 2725

COMPUTERS

Needles Pins & Material Things 6836 3555

6836 6400

CONCRETING

6832 2257 6836 2900

GAS FITTERS

TJS Plumbing & Gas

0418 972 448

GIFTS

Country Simplicity/Tea Room 0427 719 899 The John Mitchell Pharmacy 6836 2040

GOAT BUYERS Ascot Meats

0427 373 928

GUTTER VACUUMING/CLEANING GRP Plumbing

GYMS

0448 601 481

Country Mile Construction 0408 220 377 JKM Dynamic Fitness Cynend 0408 209 722 HAIRDRESSERS 0408 220 377 Monckton Construction 0400 754 862 Brush Stop 0408 209 722 CONVENTION/CONFERENCE VENUES Gerri’s Hair Salon 0423 618 385 Cobar Memorial Services Club 6836 2102 Pauline’s Hair Salon 0400 323 049 Studio 225 0419 219 440 CONVEYANCING HANDYMAN All Out Conveyancing 6836 4085 Silkman Austen Brown Lawyers—Formerly Mick McManus 6836 2251 HARDWARE Peter Payne Law 6836 2408 6836 2186 Landmark Russell DENTISTS Sullivans Mining & Industrial Thompson Family Dental 6836 1761

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION Country Mile Construction Cynend Evoke Building Co Mat Shepherd

6836 2161

EXCAVATING

Kylie Hough

CLEANERS Custom Cleaning AUTOMOTIVE PARTS/ACCESSORIES Nomes -Commercial Cleaning 0447 011 063 Fairbank AutoPro 6836 1111 CLUBS & HOTELS BATTERIES Cobar Bowling & Golf Club 6836 2214 Copper City Tyre Service Fairbank AutoPro

BRilliams

0429 362 845 0447 945 455 6836 2435 6836 1156 6836 4023

0403 249 469

SCG Mechanical Pty Ltd 6 Tenth Street, Cobar

0400 754 862

0458 004 611

6836 6400 0434 673 941

EMBROIDERY

0429 363 047 Cobar Mobile Children’s Services Inc. P1–Bush P2— Ngalii Preschool 0427 113 549 0488 143 666 Cobar Preschool Family Day Care Cobar ELC 6836 1111

CHIROPRACTORS

6836 2124 6836 2737

0439 298 812 0447 452 612 0428 362 394 0438 361 310 6836 3225 0427 113 549 6836 2234 6836 1677

49 Marshall Street Ph: 0427 719 899

COBAR LAUNDROMAT

CHIROPRACTOR

0448 922 383

26 Linsley St

Kylie Hough

6882 6533

29a Bourke St

0447 452 612

Family Chiropractic Care

R&G Thompson

Local suppliers of &

Haylee Prince 0429 354 242 HAULAGE

J Prisk Contractors

SAFES Rob 0417 706 222 6836 2124

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Dr Indra’s Surgery 6836 4777 JKM Dynamic Fitness 0439 298 812 Primary Health Care Centre 6836 5500 Thompson Family Dental 6836 1761 The John Mitchell Pharmacy 6836 2040

HOSES & FITTINGS

Sullivans Mining & Industrial 6836 1677

HUNTING SUPPLIES

Commercial Cleaning

0447 011 063

nomescustomcleaning@gmail.com

PARTY SUPPLIES

Stationery Essentials

PEST CONTROL

Outwest Pest Control

0477 946 651 matt@obsolutions.com.au Ricoh Authorised Dealer

0481 103 135

PHOTOS

TOOLS

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GRP Plumbing TJS Plumbing & Gas WA & KT Cahill

J Prisk Contractors

6836 2234 6836 6400 0448 601 481 0418 972 448 0419 601 532

Cobar Hunting, Camping & Fishing 0418 539 084 PRINTING/PHOTOCOPYING Fairbank AutoPro 6836 1111 The Cobar Weekly 6836 3616

HYDRAULIC EQUIPMENT

Sullivans Mining & Industrial 6836 1677

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INDUSTRIAL SEWING Ces’ Motor Trimming

INVESTMENT Luka Group

0491 201 946 6836 3355 6883 2200

KITCHEN & CABINET MAKING

SCG Mechanical Superior Diesel Solutions

LAWN MOWERS

Fairbank AutoPro Harvey Norman Cobar

0458 004 611 6836 2737 6836 1111 6836 6400

LIFE INSURANCE Luka Group

6883 2200

LIQUOR SALES

Cobar Bowling & Golf Club 6836 2214

MENSWEAR BRilliams

METAL FABRICATIONS Raboc Enterprises

MINE MAINTENANCE

SCG Mechanical Superior Diesel Solutions

6836 2161 0408 362 169 0458 004 611 6836 2737

MINE SAFETY SIGNS

Sullivans Mining & Industrial 6836 1677

OFFICE EQUIPMENT REPAIRS Orana Business Solutions 0477 946 651

OFFICE SUPPLIES

Stationery Essentials

6836 2900

Outback Floats & Trailers

Cobar Bowling & Golf Club 6836 2052 Empire Hotel 6836 2725 Great Western Hotel Motel 6836 2503 Little Chef Chinese 6836 4774

Superior Diesel Solutions

ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE Ces’ Motor Trimming

SCHOOL UNIFORMS BRilliams

0427 783 343

TRANSPORT

J Prisk Contractors

TV

6836 3355 0428 364 831

Harvey Norman Cobar

TYRES

Copper City Tyre Service SCG Mechanical

6836 2737 6836 2124 6836 6400 6836 1251 0458 004 611

UPHOLSTERY/MOTOR TRIMMING Ces’ Motor Trimming

6836 2161

6836 3355

VEHICLE REGISTRATION INSPECTION

SEWING/CRAFT SUPPLIES

50Seven Automotive Ces’ Motor Trimming Cobar Toyota MC Spanner SCG Mechanical Superior Diesel Solutions Tilt Automotive

SIGN WRITER/SIGNS & GRAPHICS

Kidman Way Veterinary Surgery 6836 4188

Copper City Contracting GRP Plumbing JNJ Contracting

SERVICE STATIONS Inland Petroleum

0408 666 768 0448 601 481 0491 201 946 5853 2425

Southern Cross Race Wear 0455 999 967

WELDING

Raboc Enterprises Sullivans Mining & Industrial Rickards Whiteley Lawyers 6361 9532 Silkman Austen Brown Lawyers—Formerly WHEEL ALIGNMENTS Copper City Tyre Service Peter Payne Law 6836 2408 Superior Diesel Solutions STEEL SUPPLIES WINDSCREENS Cobar Steel 6836 2203 Ces’ Motor Trimming SUPERANNUATION WORKWEAR Luka Group 6883 2200 BRilliams SUPERMARKETS Khan’s SUPA IGA 6836 2186

SOLICITORS

TAKEAWAY

TAX AGENTS Deacon & Co Nyngan Luka Group Peter’s Tax & Accounting

5820 0192 6836 3355 6836 4005 0408 054 470 0458 004 611 6836 2737 0427 478 895

VETS

Needles Pins & Material Things 6836 3555

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0418 648 960 0419 438 202

6836 3355 0428 364 831 0408 054 470

TRANSMISSION SUPPLIES

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Inland Petroleum Little Chef Chinese

Dean McLeod Done-Rite

Ces’ Motor Trimming

TRAILERS

RESTAURANTS

Sullivans Mining & Industrial 6836 1677

PAINT & ACCESSORIES

TOWING

6836 2234

Landmark Russell

6836 2124

Fairbank AutoPro 6836 1111 Sullivans Mining & Industrial 6836 1677 Superior Diesel Solutions 6836 2737

MC Spanner

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

Country Mile Construction 0408 220 377 Mat Shepherd 0400 323 049 SAFETY PRODUCTS 0419 219 440 Sullivans Mining & Industrial 6836 1677

LABOUR HIRE

Country Mile Construction 0408 220 377 Mat Shepherd 0400 323 049 0419 219 440

TIPPER HIRE

Harvey Norman Cobar

Gym open 24 hours 7 days per week

TILING & BATHROOMS

6836 2900

PET/STOCK CARE & SUPPLIES Landmark Russell

0439 298 812 www.jkmdynamicfitness.com.au

5853 2425 6836 4774 0428 451 116 6883 2200 0429 363 047

0408 362 169 6836 1677 6836 1251 6836 2737 6836 3355 6836 2161

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0428 342 626

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DEATH NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICES Expression of Interest - Cultural Heritage Management OzArk Environment & Heritage has been engaged by APA (the proponent) to complete an Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment for the Bulloo Interlink (BIL) Pipeline (the project).

The project will involve the construction and operation of a high-pressure gas pipeline, connecting the South West Queensland Pipeline in Queensland to the Moomba to Wilton Pipeline (MWP) in New South Wales (NSW). This Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment will assess the parts of the project that will be in NSW, in the Unincorporated Far West Area.

The project components in NSW will involve approximately 155 kilometres (km) of buried high pressure gas pipeline (of which 70 km will be located adjacent to the existing easement of the MWP). The pipeline in NSW will also include the following above ground infrastructure: a temperature control facility and an end of line connection facility. The pipeline in NSW will extend from the NSW / Queensland border in the north, approximately 51 km northeast of Tibooburra, and extend south, ending approximately 80 km north of White Cliffs. The project will also require the establishment of temporary construction areas including one to two pipe stockpile areas and camps, a connection facility and various access tracks.

OzArk is seeking Aboriginal persons and / or groups who wish to be consulted about the project. This consultation group will assist OzArk and the proponent in the preparation of an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment Report (ACHAR). The ACHAR will then assist the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure in their consideration and determination of the project.

If you hold cultural knowledge relevant to determining the cultural significance of Aboriginal objects or places in the project area, please register your interest to be consulted.

Registrations can be made by post: OzArk PO Box 2069 Dubbo NSW 2830; email: catherine@ozarkehm.com.au or by phoning OzArk on 02 6882 0118. All submissions should be received no later than 21 March 2025 Note: Those registering an interest will be contacted to discuss the project further. Those who do register are advised that their details will be provided to Heritage NSW and the relevant Local Aboriginal Land Council, unless specifically advised in writing that details are not to be forwarded.

WANTED

Page 14 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday March 5, 2025

PUBLIC NOTICES

POSITIONS VACANT

SPANLINE REP IN AREA next week.

Rooms, Patios, Carports, Cladding.

BL83737C. As seen on TV. 6884 0899, www.spanline.com.au

Expressions of Interest Upcoming Public Training Courses to June 2025 COBAR TLILIC005 Licence to operate an elevated work platform (boom length 11m or more) NSW $950pp – 3 day course (must be over 1+8 yrs to enrol) March 11, 12 & 13 2025 HLTAID011 Provide first aid $165pp – 1 day course April 1 2025 RIIWHS202E Enter and work in confined spaces + MSMWHS217 Gas test atmospheres + MSMWHS201 Conduct hazard analysis Clustered Courses $310pp – 1 day course (must be over 16 yrs to enrol) June 3 2025 RIIWHS204D Work safely at heights $310pp – 1 day course (must be over 16 yrs to enrol) June 4 2025 UETDRRF004 Perform rescue from a live LV panel + HLTAID009 Provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation $350pp – 1 day course June 5 2025

SIDE TIPPER DRIVERS Local area 12 hour shifts Competitive hourly rate

Road Train Experience (required) Tipping Experience (required) Current MC Licence

Applications & enquiries to

admin@lumbars.com.au

TLILIC0003 Licence to operate a forklift truck (NSW) $700pp – 3 day course (must be over 18 yrs to enrol) June 17, 18 & 19 2025

RTO 41466 To enrol in course please contact Kylie on 0420 540 682 or email: kylie@sitetrain.com.au Website: www.sitetrain.com.au

Wednesday March 5, 2025 The Cobar Weekly Page 15

POSITIONS VACANT

Page 16 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday March 5, 2025

Sport

Heat played havoc The heat played havoc with the 2025 season opener in the Cobar Lady Golfers competition on the weekend.

Saturday’s Stableford tee off time was changed to 9am to try and avoid the 40C predicted temperature.

While most golfers decided the air conditioner at home was a better option, eight brave participants chose to tackle the conditions.

Narelle Kriz won the day after scoring 35 points and she picked up the A Grade Nearest the Pin prize on the 3rd hole.

The runner-up was Serena Fraser on 33 points while Glenda Peebles placed third with 30 points (and the C Grade pin prize).

Geraldine Francisco was closest to the flag for B Grade.

Unfortunately only two players turned up for Sunday’s Par round and, as a minimum of four players are needed for a competition, this game was abandoned.

As golfers study this week’s weather forecast hoping for a cool change, the program has a Stableford round scheduled for today, a par 3 Stableford for Saturday and another Stableford game on Sunday.

The course is looking good after the working bee last Friday and the grounds staff have been working tirelessly to be ready for the start of the season.

The greens are the biggest bonus this season with a different kind of sand in play than what has been used in the past.

This decision has been welcomed from summer competition golfers who have nothing but praise for the change and no doubt putting this year should have less than three putts … well we can only hope.—T’d Off

Summer’s over

Summer might be over but the Cobar Yabbies Senior Men’s Swimming Club season still has a few more weeks to run which means there’s still time for swimmers to accumulate all-important club championship points.

Two Yabbies added another 12 points each to their season tally with Paul Swainston earning his points with a first and third finish while John Carswell’s 12 points came from two second place results.

Swainston won the first event of the night, the 30 metres handicapped freestyle swim, after finishing with a near spot on time of 0.01 seconds off his nominated time.

He just pipped Matt Harland (0.03 seconds) and Bill Fugar was third with 0.09 seconds off his nominated time.

Scott Toomey was way out in front in the 50m event winning with a time of 0.09 seconds off his nominated time.

Carswell was second with 0.38 seconds and Swainston and Fugar tied for third place after both finished within 0.47 seconds of their nominated times.

Murray Harland clocked in within 0.04 seconds of his nominated time to win the 100m swim. Carswell’s 0.53 seconds off his time was good enough for second place and Chris Powell, with 0.99 seconds off his time, finished third.

Paul Finucane and Tom Jones teamed up to win the Brace Relay novelty event, a kickboard swim across the pool. The pair finished within 0.62 seconds of their nominated time. In second place were Toomey and James Daymond (0.75) and Fugar and Powell finished third with 1.07 seconds off their combined time.

CPS’s swimming squad

Cobar Public School was represented by 16 students at the annual Nyngbar Swimming Carnival in Nyngan last Thursday. Nyngan won the carnival and have retained the trophy for another year. The Cobar team performed well with a number of students finishing with personal best results. A CPS team of 12 swimmers will now progress to compete at the area carnival in Dubbo this Friday. Photo contributed

Cobar Memorial Services Club 2 Marshall St

RAFFLES Members only

|

6836 2102

|

cobarrsl@bigpond.com

Fridays 7pm, Saturdays 3.30pm & Sundays 1-2pm

Mega Meat Tray Winner: Jason H

Easter Raffles starting soon!

Keno Promo Winner: Emily M

Punters Club: Linda, Rena & Charles N Wednesday March 5, 2025 The Cobar Weekly Page 17

Sport

Golfing season gets underway

Yellow record a thriller win

Yellow (pictured above) narrowly trailed Pink 6-7 at the half-time break in their Senior Touch (13-16 years) Round 4 game on Thursday afternoon at Ward Oval.

Despite the searing 40 degree heat, they fought back in the second half to finish with a thrilling 11-10 win.

COBAR

The 2025 golfing season kicked off on Wednesday however, with work being done on the course, only nine holes were open for competition.

As it turned out, only four golfers turned up for the men’s competition anyway and of that four, Bian Smith, with 19 points, was a clear winner over Bill Fugar on 16.

The first real game took place on Saturday with a Four-Ball-Best-Ball event.

There was only a field of 13 players with a few players away.

However, there was a good sprinkling of junior players who teamed up with the “more mature” golfers, which is encouraging for the future of Cobar golf.

The best score of the day was 47 points by the team of the well-seasoned Andrew Bartlett and Rowdy Barton.

Rowdy also scored 41 points to have the best individual score.

Second place went to Stewart Fraser and Mark, “George” Fraser on 45 points.

George also scored 41 individual points with his ‘Old Man’ only scoring 28!

Third place went to Bill Fugar and Cohan Nicholson with 44 points.

Nearest the Pin prizes were won by George Fraser on the 3rd and 7th holes, while Peter ‘Ding’ Lawrence (who said he was having a beer-free day) took out the prize on the difficult 11th hole.

Sunday was a Par event with 11 players competing.

There were only two plus scores on the day, with Cohan Nicholson three shots clear of the rest of the field with a scorecard of plus 4.

Second was Daryn Lord with plus 1.

Brian Russ came third with minus 1 and George Fraser was 4th with minus 3.

Only two Nearest the Pin prizes were won: George Fraser on the 3rd hole (for the second time in two days) and Rowdy Barton won Greg Clark’s favourite hole, the 8th.

Today’s game is a mid-week Stableford.

Saturday is the Monthly Medal, a Stableford and Sunday’s two-man Ambrose is a stroke event.—Out of Bounds

24 Marshall Street

0428 342 626

Monday to Friday 9am-5pm Saturday 9am-12pm Lounges, dining, bedroom & occasional furniture, mattresses, linen, décor and accessories

www.furnitureone.com.au Page 18 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday March 5, 2025

Sport

New Fast5 netball Lots of kms in and out of the pool competition is now underway A new season of the Fast5 netball competition commenced last Tuesday night with 10 teams taking part.

New to the competition, Autobots, recorded a thrilling first round one point win, 29-28, over their more experienced opposition, All Class.

Autobots had left their best efforts until last and they used their PowerPlay option in the final quarter to perfection.

After trailing by 10 points at the end of the third quarter, they stormed home to finish with a 29-28 victory.

Molly Birch earned their Favourite Fiver title while Nathan Prince was named All Class’s Favourite Fiver.

Peak Golden Nuggets also saved their best form for the final quarter in their Round 1 win over Rebounders.

They scored 20 points of their 34 point tally in the final quarter to finish with a 34-24 win.

The game’s Favourite Fivers were Alan Magner (Peak Golden Nuggets) and Zac Broughton (Rebounders).

Last Minute held the upper hand throughout their match with Sisters of Mercy to finish with a 17-5 victory.

Zalee Mollard (Last Minute) and Kahlie Obray (Sisters of Mercy) were the game’s Favourite Fivers.

Untouchables were too good for Fast Fobs running out as easy 36-6 winners.

Seigrid Peters (Untouchables) and George Manu (Fast Fobs) shared the Favourite Fivers title.

Mixed & Matched were unmatched in their match with Shooting Blanks with last year’s competition winners easy 40-4 winners.

Rori Urquhart was named Mixed & Matched’s Favourite Fiver while Kate Mamone earned the title for her Shooting Blanks team.

It’s been a long swimming season for Cobar Swimming Club’s Isabelle Gillette (and her family) with the Gillettes doing lots of kilometres in and out of the pool.

The family travelled to Sydney on the weekend where Isabelle competed at the Speedo Sprints 2025 Finals at Olympic Park on Saturday.

Isabelle was one of 48 swimmers from 12 western area swimming clubs that came together to form the Western Area Team.

She participated in four individual events and recorded a personal best time in her 12 years 50 Metres Freestyle swim, bettering her old time by 0.15 seconds.

Isabelle was also part of the Western Area Girls’ 13 years and Under 200m Medley Relay team and the 13 years and Under 200m Freestyle Relay team.

Cobar Swimming Club publicity officer Bec Wyllie said Isabelle displayed commendable swimming skills against swimmers who have had the advantage of being able to train yearround in heated pools and who have considerably reduced travel distances to competitions.

The young Cobar swimmer has been traveling extensively over the last few months to compete at club, school and area carnivals and has been a great ambassador for her club.

www.cobarweekly.com.au

Isabelle Gillette competed with the Western Area Team at the Speedo Sprints 2025 Finals in Sydney on Saturday.

Photo contributed

Shooters contend with the heat

A field of eight shooters had to contend with very hot weather for the Cobar Amateur Pistol Club’s 10m Air Pistol match on Sunday.

The heat made shooting a challenge and the scores for the day were: John Woloczij 324-267-591; Jay Webster 448-124-572; Robert Neate 503-66-569; Jason Holmgreen 430-113-543; Todd Manns 45483-537; Michael Garbutt 453-67-520; Geoff Clayton 359-126-485 and Lloyd Mitchell 342-140-482.

Two new shooters also attended on the day and recorded some good groupings in their first practice at pistol shooting.

This week’s event will be a 25m Standard Pistol match.

Have you visited our website lately?

www.cobarweekly.com.au Wednesday March 5, 2025 The Cobar Weekly Page 19

Sport

Concrete Cowboys knocked from their high horse

Concrete Cowboys (pictured above) met their match in the Mixed Open Touch competition last week when they were knocked from the top spot by Blossoms.

Two big winners in darts competition There were two big winners in the local Kyle Roberts 105, 123; Golfie Gophers— darts competition last week with Golfie Robert Henderson 118, 100 and Chris Hooker Ones & Fives and RSL both recording 7-2 100; RSL Minors—Shaun Doherty 140, 125; wins.

Golfie Ones and Fives—Daniel Duell 100, Golfie Ones & Fives beat Golfie Spearchuck- 100, 118 and Brendhan Freeman 140. ers while RSL also had their 7-2 win over Em- The men’s highest score of the week was pire Barflies.

140, which was thrown by four players: BrenIn the other matches, Western Grumblebums dhan Freeman, Waylon Ward, Shaun Doherty accounted for Golfie Gophers 6-3 and it was a and Dave Gardiner. close game between RSL Minors and RSL Mom Thou was responsible for the ladies’ Dingoes with RSL Minors eventually winning highest score of the week, 102.

5-4.

Dave Gardiner had the men’s highest peg out Golfie Dartaholics had the bye. with 140, while the ladies’ highest peg out for Hundreds and high scores were thrown by: the week was 32, recorded by Macee Brown.

Empire Barflies—Waylon Ward 140; Western In tonight’s matches, RSL play Golfie Ones Grumblebums—Craig Jones 100 and Dave & Fives, Golfie Spearchuckers take on Empire Gardiner 140, 140, 100, 100; RSL Dingoes— Barflies, Western Grumblebums are up against Mathew Suridge 100, 100; RSL—Mom Thou RSL Dingoes, Golfie Dartaholics host Golfie 100, 102, Don Roberts 100, 128, 121, 100 and Gophers and RSL Minors have the bye.

Page 20 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday March 5, 2025

The Concrete Cowboys were knocked from their high horse in the Open Mixed Touch competition last week when the Blossoms beat the previously unbeaten team.

Last season’s grand final winners, the Concrete Cowboys had started this season in the same vein winning the first three rounds.

However they met their match in Round 4 when they came up against the Blossoms who comprehensively beat them 14-6.

Blossoms are now fast becoming the favourites to take out the title this season.

James McMullen led the Blossoms’ scoring with three tries with Sarah Nicholson and Sosie Barton scoring doubles.

Ella Oborn and Kai Taylor touched down for their other points.

In reply, Chris Crotty, Toby Greenwood and Zac Broughton scored twice each for Concrete Cowboys.

Nicholson, Taylor and Broughton earned the referee’s Best & Fairest points.

Red Hot Chilli Steppers had a narrow 6-5 Round 4 win last week over Rusty Snails.

Epi Torosi, Fraser Talu, Kayla Hasson and Michelle Gillette scored tries for Red Hot Chilli Steppers while Rusty Snails’ points came from tries to Ben Dormer, Ben McBride, Jesse Murphy and Holly Watt.

Talu, Jackson Muldoon (Red Hot Chilli Steppers) and Corinne McLeod (Rusty Snails) shared in the game’s B&F points.

Phat Athletes bounced back to form to record a 6-3 win over the young Running on Empty side.

Amie Hill, Jezebel Hitchins, Mitch Shields and Adam Doherty crossed for a try each for Phat Athletes.

Running on Empty’s Ethan McLeod crossed twice and Mitch Dunne scored their other point.

McLeod, Hill and Kahlie Obray collected B&F points.

Makos proved to be too quick and slick for the Guns N Hoses team with Makos finishing with a big 21-0 win.

Tia Turner, with five tries, led the scoring for Makos with Rhylee Jeffery crossing four times.

Myah Sullivan and Tadgh McMullen also added a try each to their tally.

Turner, Jeffery and Paris Capell (Guns N Hoses) shared in the game’s B&F points.

Sport

Cobar Bactrians roar back to life with fresh talent Rugby fans in Cobar have reason to celebrate as their women’s rugby team, the Cobar Bactrians, is planning a triumphant return to the field.

This year the team has reassembled with a mix of experienced players and enthusiastic newcomers, ready to reignite the town’s passion for the sport.

One of the fresh recruits to the squad is Jazz Beddows, hailing from Queensland.

Having never played rugby before, Jazz has enjoyed learning the game at Tuesday night trainings and the great team environment.

“I’ve always wanted to play rugby union, and when I heard the Bactrians were getting back together, I knew I had to be part of it,” Jazz said.

“The Old Boys on the Cobar Camels committee have really thrown their weight behind the women’s team.

“It’s been really special playing with a motivated group of girls,” she said.

As they prepare for their upcoming matches, the Bactrians are determined to make their mark.

New players of all ages and experiences are welcome, with trainings held at Cobar Rugby Union club on Tuesday nights.

This year the Bactrians will be playing social inter-town rugby gala days as they build a tackle squad to join a new competition in 2026.—contributed

Weathered the heat well to win

The Bactrians women’s rugby team at a recent training session with coach Greg Black and Cobar Rugby Club president Peter Payne. Photo contributed

Blueberries and Ice Spice weathered the heat well to record wins in last week’s Junior (9-12 years) Touch competition.

Blueberries ran away to win their Round 4 match 9-3 over the Minions on Thursday afternoon at Ward Oval.

Dusty McDonald led the way for the Blueberries with three tries, Kasalia Fakahu added four points to their tally with her two tries (female tries are worth double points) and Taj Goonrey also crossed for two tries to help the Blueberries to their win. In reply, Corey Cleary scored all of the Minions three tries.

Corey and Taj shared in the referee’s Best & Fairest points along with Aisea Fakahua (Minions).

A big first half effort helped to set Ice Spice up for their 8-2 victory over Red Rangers.

Alfie Toomey, Ashlee Compton, Josh McMillan and Rhylee Nicholson all crossed for first half tries for Ice Spice with Josh and Jason Thou sealing their win with their second half touchdowns.

Hugo Josephson scored both of Red Rangers’ two tries. Hugo earned the referee’s points along with Alfie and Josh.

Wednesday March 5, 2025 The Cobar Weekly Page 21

Sport

Blue Bangers big second half effort paid off with a win Two close contests were played out in the Senior (13-16 years) Touch competition on Thursday at Ward Oval.

Despite the very warm playing conditions for the Round 4 games, both matches were high scoring affairs.

Blue Bangers turned around their game against Green Pickles in the second half.

Green Pickles led 5-4 going into half time before Blue Bangers fought back to take a thrilling 9-6 win.

Rowdy Barton (2), Addison Cull, Holly Watt, Jackson Muldoon and Rhylee Patterson touched down for tries for Blue Bangers while Green Pickles’ points came from tries to Ella Oborn (2), Lachlan Brookman and Mark McBride.

Best & Fairest points went to Addison, Ella and Judd Josephson (Blue Bangers).

After narrowly trailing 6-7 at the half time break, Yellow fought back to claim an 11-10 win over Pink in their Round 4 match last week.

Rhylee Jeffery led the scoring for Yellow with three touch downs (worth six points as female tries are worth double).

Oscar Ryan scored a double and Lacey Watt and Cohan Nicholson also crossed for a try each for Yellow.

Pink’s points came from five tries to Kai McCosker, two to Josh Francisco and one each by Hannah Trudgett and Talas Burke.

Rhylee, Kai and Chole Griffiths (Yellow) earned the referee’s Best & Fairest points.

The Blue Bangers (pictured above) pulled off a great come from behind win over Green Pickles last week in Round 4 of the Seniors (13-16 years) Touch competition.

Page 22 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday March 5, 2025

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Wednesday March 5, 2025 The Cobar Weekly Page 23

Sport

Bactrians kick off their training

New golf seasons get underway

Page 21

Pages 17 & 18

Busy weekend for bowlers

Ashlee Compton, Isabelle Gillette, Henry Knight and Josh Francisco. Contributed

High calibre of swimmers

The calibre of swimmers coming through He also set a new time of 1.00.78 in the 17+ Cobar High School continues to improve 100m Freestyle swim, beating the previous year on year with three new school records, record of 1.01.92 set by Raymond Jones in set at this year’s annual swimming carnival. 2021.

One of those records was a long standing Isabelle and Henry, along with Ashlee record set in 2010 by one of the best swimmers Compton and Josh Francisco, have now qualito come out of Cobar, Georgia Baker. fied for the Western Swimming Trials.

Isabelle Gillette eclipsed Georgia’s Under 13 Fort Bourke, with 524 points was the carnigirls 50m Freestyle record with a new time of val winner with Chesney second on 412.

32.02.

This year’s age champions were: Under Georgia’s previous record was 32.86.

12s—Shelby Caton; Under 13s—Billy Watt Henry Knight set two new records at the and Isabelle Gillette; Under 14s—Riley Bruce annual swimming carnival last Monday. and Taylah Wyllie; Under 15s—Josh Francisco He broke his own 17+ 50m Butterfly record and Skyla Fairfull; Under 16s—Tom Francisco that he’d set last year. His new record is 28.74. and Alora Deppeler; Under 17s and 17+— (Henry’s previous time was 28.96).

Henry Knight and Malina Bottom.

37 Linsley Street Cobar

It was a busy weekend of bowls with the Cobar Bowling & Golf Club hosting two Pennants games, a Club Championship match, as well as two social events.

Cobar hosted Gilgandra on Saturday in the Pennants competition with the visitors claiming all 10 points in a momentous three games win.

Michael Sargent’s team of Rory Dunlop, Paul Kershaw and Bian Smith were beaten 28-18; Gerrard Livingston, David ‘Ooze’ Knight, Tony Polack and Alec Fraser went down 32-14; and the team of Kyle Roberts, Don Roberts, Ian Prendergast and Dean McLeod lost their match 35-11.

The Cobar teams had a better day on Sunday up against the Baradine visitors.

Don Roberts’ side claimed a big 29-6 win and Knight, Peter ‘Skeet’ Goonrey, Livingston and Polack won their game 22-16.

Sargent, Dunlop, Russell Brosi, and John Goonrey narrowly lost their match 17-13.

Cobar finished the day with a win and nine points.

In the Pairs Championship game Allan Knight and Greg Read played a great match with Karen Daly and Randall Hall.

Knight and Read eventually won by a narrow margin of +2.

At Friday night’s Twilight Bowls event, Rory Dunlop, Fred Geldoff and double lead Karen Daly won the evening by +3.

The other game was a draw between Allan Gardoll and David Kershaw who were up against Mick McManus and Michael Sargent.

For Sunday’s social bowls event, David Schofield, Mick McManus and Cole Bunting won the day after they beat Craig Grimmond, Doug Hudson and Allan Gardoll by +6.

Apparently there was not one nominee for the George the Giraffe award in sight!—The Second

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Page 24 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday March 5, 2025

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