TCW19022025

Wednesday February 19, 2025

Volume 40 No. 05

$2 inc. GST

The Cobar Weekly Polymetals raises $35M equity capital Pg 2

New training to be rolled out in Cobar Pg 4

Property prices now in line with the times Pg 6 & 8

Council gets green light for Grand Precinct Cobar is one of four NSW regional com- “This is a Federal Government grant, which ey,” Cr Marsden said. munities to share in over $21million of Fed- was nation-wide and highly competitive.

He said while the almost $3.5 million funderal Government funding that aims to cre- “The staff put together a very good proposal ing only covers the design and planning stage, ate new and revitalise existing town pre- and it was one that was impressive enough to it will give Council the best “bang for our cincts. stand out and win some of this bucket of mon- buck”. Continued Page 3.

The funding for four planning and design CBD projects in Cessnock, Mudgee, Bathurst and Cobar was recently announced as part of the Albanese Government’s regional Precincts and Partnership Program (rPPP), which provides investment to transform regional, rural and remote places.

Cobar Shire Council will receive almost $3.5 million to deliver the design and planning works for the Grand Precinct, to get it up to construction and tender-ready status.

The project will transform the town’s CBD in four key areas: the Grand Hotel, the library, the town hall and the Brennan Centre.

Design and planning works will include redesigning the Grand Hotel into a culturalcommercial hub; upgrading the library which will include building a second story to accommodate apartments/units; restoring the town hall for multi-purpose use which could include an art gallery space; and adding more senior housing units as part of the Brennan Centre housing complex.

The Grand Precinct design will also include improving the streetscape.

Cobar Shire Mayor Jarrod Marsden said the funding was great news for Cobar.

“It’s great the Federal Government has seen the work that we’ve done with community enhancement and engagement and has fol- Cobar Shire Council bought the dilapidated Grand Hotel and adjacent café building in lowed that through with funding to make these the main street at the end of 2023 as part of their vision to upgrade the main street. projects a reality,” Cr Marsden said.

He said he was “mightily impressed” with Repainting of the Grand’s façade was carried out in August last year and the Grand Can the efforts of Council’s staff in preparing the got a new wrap at the end of November. Council will now receive funding to fully funding application. develop plans and designs to make it the centrepiece of Cobar’s Grand Precinct.

News

Operation Backburn a great success $35million raised to “Make Endeavor Great Again” A high visibility operation conducted earli- Random Breath Tests (RBTs) were adminiser this month in the Nyngan and Cobar dis- tered. tricts has been declared a great success by Rural Crime Prevention Team State Rural the Rural Crime Prevention Team.

Crime Coordinator, Detective Chief Inspector As part of Operation Backburn, the NSW Cameron Whiteside, said NSW Police were Police Rural Crime Prevention Team (RCPT) , pleased with the results of the high-visibility with assistance from Western Region Opera- operation. tions Support Group, Bourke Proactive Crime He said as a result, key information had been Team and Central North Criminal Investiga- gathered to assist them to continue their investors, patrolled approximately 1,500km of rural tigations into illegal hunting and property roads in response to concerns about illegal crime in the Central North Police District. hunting and property crime in both districts.

“We know that this saturated police presence Searches, inspections and other activities across Nyngan, Cobar and surrounds has inwere conducted to curtail rural crime from creased community awareness of these types of February 6 through to February 8. rural crimes – which will continue to be a focus During the operation inspections were carried for the RCPT and local police teams,” Detecout on 17 rural properties with six residences tive Chief Inspector Whiteside said. and three livestock carriersalso inspected.

“We appeal for anyone with information Two Firearms Prohibition Orders (FPO) about rural crimes such as these to contact compliance searches were conducted and 20 CrimeStoppers.”

Vehicle stolen from mine carpark A vehicle stolen from the CSA Mine car- Police located the vehicle and have seized it park overnight last Monday was recovered for forensic examination. by police the following day.

The NSW Police Rural Crime Prevention It was reported to Cobar Police that a white Team, Central North Police District and Orana Toyota Landcruiser was stolen from the Mid-western Police District are seeking a 19 mine’s carpark sometime between 6pm Mon- year old man (who is wanted by virtue of a day February 10 and 6am on Tuesday Febru- warrant for offences relating to break, enter ary 11. and steal, and break and enter with intent and At around 9.30am on Tuesday (February 11) drive conveyance without consent) to speak to police received information that the white him about the above theft.

Landcruiser was at the Florida Rest Area ap- The man is known to have frequented the proximately 50kms east of Cobar.

Cobar, Nyngan and Warren areas.

Polymetals Resources Ltd’s existing shareholders and new investors have given firm commitments to raise $35 million in equity capital to support the restart of the Endeavor Mine.

The company issued 43.75 million new shares in a single tranche placement to raise $35m at $0.80.

The placement was strongly supported by existing and new domestic and offshore sophisticated, professional and institutional investors.

Polymetals’ executive chairman Dave Sproule said they were extremely grateful for the support and the funding will ensure Endeavor’s restart activities remain on track.

“The Polymetals team look forward to commissioning the operation to become Australia’s next silver and zinc producer,” Mr Sproule said.

“Timing is particularly encouraging against the backdrop of strong Australian dollar zinc and silver prices and the favourable treatment terms currently available to our zinc concentrate producers.

“With this equity raising achieved, we believe the Polymetals team is very wellpositioned to begin the next chapter in “Making Endeavor Great Again” with the establishment of strong and sustainable cash flow and providing a significant and lasting contribution to the community of Cobar and the mining industry in New South Wales,” Mr Sproule said.

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Page 2 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday February 19, 2025

News

Council gets the green light for Grand Precinct plans Continued from Page 1.

“Precincts like this not only give the commu- spaces to enhance regional cities and towns – “This is what these things cost to be done nity a space to gather and visitors a space to working collaboratively across government, properly from the start and, to have that cov- enjoy, but they transform towns by boosting community and with the private sector. ered up front, makes the whole project more local economies and shaping the everyday “We are listening to communities across feasible,” Cr Marsden said. lives of locals,” Minister King said. regional New South Wales and boosting local “It’s a giant leap forward on projects that we “The regional Precincts and Partnerships economies by strengthening community infrahad thought were going to possibly be stagnant Program is about revitalising underutilised structure,” she said. for a while.

“The town hall, Brennan Centre and library are in our community enhancement plan and we wondered where we would get the funding for them.

“We basically thought we might never be able to do anything with them.”

Council’s general manager Peter Vlatko was thrilled and also somewhat surprised with the funding announcement.

“The announcement was expected to have been made last November.

“We thought we had missed out,” Mr Vlatko told The Cobar Weekly.

He said it will be a big boost to Council’s Master Plan to have the design and construction plans for the four projects Development Application (DA) and “shovel ready”.

“It’s great that Council will also be able to help the Brennan Centre committee with their redevelopment plans.

“Having their DA ready plans will mean they can save the money they’ve raised to be spent on construction.”

President of the Brennan Centre Committee Barry Knight said the funding announcement was great news for Council and also for Cobar’s seniors.

Mr Knight said not having to have their construction plans drawn up will save them thou- As part of the Grand Precinct funding, Cobar Shire Council will be able to help the sands of dollars and that money can be put Brennan Centre Committee to plan and design four more units for Cobar’s seniors. towards the cost to build four new housing units for seniors.

The rPPP Stream 1 funding covers Precinct development and planning and is available to be used for master planning, consultation, design, business cases and partnership establishment.

Council will still need to secure further funding for the Precinct delivery costs to carry out the proposed Grand Hotel, library and town hall projects.

Mr Vlatko said all were included in Council’s Master Plan following community consultation and feedback when the option of Resources for Regions funding was available.

With that stream of NSW Government funding no longer available, Mr Vlatko is hoping the projects will be considered for funding as part of Stream 2 of the Precinct Delivery of the rPPP. Under Stream 2 grants between $5 million and $500 million will be available to deliver one or more elements of a project.

This could be enabling infrastructure (roads, pathways, underground infrastructure), public infrastructure, or open spaces between elements or a particular building that activates other investment.

“Council already has money in the budget for street beautification and that’s something that could start once the design and plans have been completed,” Mr Vlatko said.

“That won’t have to wait on funding for the other projects.”

Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King announced the rPPP funding recipients on Friday.

Minister King said these projects showcase the Government’s commitment to listening to, and working with, local communities, and addressing regional needs.

Wednesday February 19, 2025 The Cobar Weekly Page 3

News

Australian first safety training to be rolled out in Cobar

SiteTrain owner/manager Damien Palazzi is bringing a fresh, new approach to hazard reduction training to Cobar next month. Photo contributed

Theft will impede RFS’s help The theft of a fuel tank and other items from the Rural Fire Service shed earlier this week is expected to impede the brigade’s ability to help in emergency situations.

Police advise an unknown person cut the boundary fence gate of the RFS shed with an angle grinder at around 2.30am on Monday.

After gaining access, they drove a stolen white Holden Commodore into the yard and hooked up a RFS fuel tank to the vehicle.

They then proceeded to ransack through box trailers at the location and steal items before driving off with the stolen equipment.

CSA Mine employees will be the first in look for the tomato sauce bottle and they can’t Australia to undergo a new hazard aware- see it, and when mum goes to look, it’s right ness training that was developed in the Unit- there in the cupboard,” he said. ed States.

“Basically it teaches you how to see better, Mine site training professionals, SiteTrain, notice more things, using visual arts and arwho have offices in Cobar, Forbes and Kal- chitectural type skills or concepts. goorlie, will be delivering Visual Literacy “It’s about being specific in what you’re Hazard Identification training to CSA Mine’s looking at rather than the broad.”

400 staff members next month.

Damien said the “shotgun” approach has Visual Literacy training uses the tools taught been used when talking about hazards, which in art education to see detail in works of art is essentially trying to cover a wide area withand applies them to identifying workplace out focusing on specific targets, similar to hazards to improve safety performance. how a shotgun spreads pellets across a large SiteTrain’s owner/manager Damien Palazzi, area when fired. said the course is a fresh, new approach to He said the Visual Literacy approach gets hazard reduction training. you to look at the specifics—for example “It might seem a little bit out there—miners looking at a painting and trying to find all the and art and architecture,” Damien told The things that are red.

Cobar Weekly.

Damien said this method makes you notice “I’ve had a few conmore and “slows your versations with people “It might seem a little bit looking down, like mediabout it and they roll out there—miners, art and tation for the eyes”. their eyes and say architecture,”—Damien Palazzi “It makes you look specif‘Really Damo?” ically at a certain hazard After teaching the same risk assessment rather than just for hazards.” modules over and over again for the past 15 Damien said part of the training process is years, Damien felt it was time to refresh the helping with strategies to implement the learnt hazard reduction course. knowledge into a business to ensure it gets “Participants have heard it so many times cemented into their processes. and then it starts to glaze over.”

“It’s not one of those trendy training sessions For his training to be effective, Damien that someone goes to and then you never hear knew he needed to find a different approach. about it again,” he said.

He started research and two years ago came “It can be applied anywhere, it’s not just for across Visual Literacy training being carried mining, it’s for any industry.” out by COVE (Centre of Visual Expertise), Damien will be flying COVE’s Advisory which was created by the Toledo Museum of Board member Pete Batrowny, a globally recArt in the United States. ognised expert in Environmental Health, Safe“I contacted them and at first they said they ty and Sustainability and Physical Security, out weren’t really set up for international training from the US to Cobar next month to help him but we persisted,” Damien said. kick off the course.

He flew to the US last year to do the training In addition to running the full day training himself and for the past 18 months has been programs with the CSA Mine staff, SiteTrain working with COVE to bring the training to will be offering an introduction information Australia. session to members of the general public who Damien explained Visual Literacy uses tools want to find out more about how the training to see detail in works of art and applies them to works. identifying workplace hazards to improve safe- (See advertisement opposite page.) ty performance.

Damien said Visual Literacy is a valuable “It’s about being more aware. We only see skill to have and it’s one that you can take 10 per cent of what we actually see. home. It could help you next time you’re look“Take for example we’ve seen boys try to ing for the tomato sauce!

Page 4 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday February 19, 2025

Wednesday February 19, 2025 The Cobar Weekly Page 5

News

Buyers are showing a lot of interest in residential homes Cobar’s real estate agents report they are the vendor within seven to 14 days with an bar, we are an affordable market. getting a lot of interest from buyers for resi- average of 60 days on the market.

“The level of buyer interest has increased, dential homes and those homes are selling “I have a substantial database of prospective and we need to be realistic to the cost of buildfast! buyers and, in some cases, have off-market ing and rebuilding,’ Shara said.

The Cobar Weekly spoke with Shara Suck- negotiations being a perfect match for both Both report it’s currently very much a ling from Elders Real Estate and Brinley parties involved. “sellers market” for residential real estate in Obray from Nutrien Russell about what’s hap- “Prospective buyers are commenting on how Cobar. pening in the local housing market. quickly they need to act when a property goes “There is a shortage of available properties Shara’s been selling houses in Cobar since on the market,” Shara said. for sale to meet the buyer demand,” Shara said. she moved to town in 2016 and Brinley has “Properties are selling extremely quickly but Both said it’s a combination of current interbeen selling homes for Nutrien Russell since this also depends on factors such as pricing, est rates, government incentives, rising build2021. (Nutrien Russell has been selling proper- quality, etc,” Brinley said. ing costs, a boost in the local economy, the ties in Cobar since 1984.)

According to Domain statistics the median prospect of another mine opening, a lack of Shara reports the Elders Real Estate Cobar sale price for a home in Cobar in 2024 was rental properties (and so people are looking to performance data for 2024 was successful with $220,000, in 2021 it was $194,000, and in buy), an emerging trend of families moving to 28 properties sold, with an average sale value 2018 the median price was $195,000.

Cobar, a change in mindset since Covid with of $321,178.57 and 49 days on the market.

Both think house prices are on the rise in families moving out into the regions and, She said they had a list to sell clearance rate Cobar. banks have changed their attitude to lending of 96.15 per cent.

“While we are seeing record high property more for homes, that make it a “sellers mar“As I enter 2025, signs are showing a posi- prices, I still think we have not reached peak ket”. tive start to the year,” Shara said. prices yet,” Brinley said.

Shara said she noticed a shift in the market “Due to strong buyer activity, I am seeing Shara feels that during the past 12 to 18 during and following Covid. that when a property hits the market, there is months, the market has been catching up.

“First home buyers have access to governgenerally an offer that has been accepted by “For investors or new buyers coming to Co- ment incentives and lower interest rates.

“I would say that during the last 12 months, being that there is a strong buyer demand, with recent sales there has been more than one buyer which has also increased the sale value for a property.

“Banks have been lending, and the properties are meeting valuation, which is also a major key in allowing the market to grow,” Shara said.

Both said their interested buyers are a mixed group.

“I have seen a very strong increase of young first home buyers in their early 20’s buying and a couple of them buying their first home as an investment,” Shara said.

“I’m also seeing families that have outgrown the current family property and are looking for extra space.

“And also buyers that have only been in Cobar for a short period of time,” Shara said.

Brinley’s clients have similar needs.

“Young couples looking to lay down roots and start a family, local families looking to upsize as they have outgrown their current homes and people that have moved here and would like to stay permanently,” Brinley said.

“Owner occupiers are the far more dominant buyer type as opposed to investors currently, due to many different factors including the This three bedroom brick veneer home in Green Street, listed for sale last month at price of weekly rent actually being currently $350,000, has had plenty of interest from buyers. It went under offer straight away and is higher than the average weekly mortgage payment.” Continued Page 8. currently under contract with settlement scheduled for next month.

Page 6 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday February 19, 2025

Wednesday February 19, 2025 The Cobar Weekly Page 7

News

Buyers are showing a lot of interest in residential homes Continued from Page 6.

Brinley said most buyers understand that decent,” she said.

“The housing crisis we are currently facing when they are not buying a brand-new home, Shara said to build one of these homes in a remote area like Cobar, involves a lot of onof very low vacancy rates and extreme demand flaws are to be expected. is allowing some landlords to significantly “However, if they are purchasing an execu- costs, overheads and professional trades. increase the weekly rent, as people are desper- tive-style home for say $450,000 plus, it is “For example, brick layers/renderers, accomate for a property and will pay what is needed expected that nothing should really need to be modation and transport which drives the price to obtain a rental,” Brinley said. done to the property, or the price point may be up dramatically for a new build compared to According to Domain, there has been a sub- off.” regional centres,” Shara said. urb growth of 5.9 per cent from August 2022 Executive-style homes in Cobar are not com- “If you speak to any builder, be it local or to July 2024. ing up very often for sale. from out of town, they all say that is the cost.

A crop of 12 Endeavor houses offered under Shara said it’s hard to offer their clients that “Cobar is fortunate to have local builders auction by Nutrien in August 2021 sold for style of home as there haven’t been very many offering such packages.” approximately $140,000 on average. executive-style four bedroom, two bathroom, Along with owner/occupiers looking for Shara reports those same-style homes are new brick homes built in the past 20 years. homes, both agents report there is still keen now selling for around $280,000.

With the demand for new, modern homes on interest from investors in the Cobar residential Elders and Nutrien’s buyers, in particular the the rise, local builder Jade McDonald recently market. families, have been looking for executive brick advertised two new executive-style turn-key “There is still interest from investors looking four bedroom homes with multiple living areas house and land packages for sale for $742,500 to buy and monitor the market, Cobar has a and two bathrooms. and $738,200. good rental yield,” Shara said.

“Having a larger yard, established lawns, and When advertised on social media, some com- “I particularly see keen interest in residential shed are also a desirable buying requirement,” menters labelled them as too expensive. vacant blocks of land from investors.”

Shara said.

Rob Snelson, a former resident, commented Brinley said most of their investors don’t “Large government companies are looking he could “buy in Mackay Qld for the same” want to spend anything over $220,000. for new executive properties to encourage and price and Jennifer Bayliss said “That’s “They are however starting to adapt to the keep essential workers in Cobar for longer.

Mudgee prices”. rising property prices in Cobar and understand Brinley said many of their enquiries are for Both Shara and Brinley dispute those com- that while this may be higher than the prices in executive-style four-bedroom brick homes ments.

Cobar a few years ago, investing in Cobar is with at least two bathrooms, two living rooms, “Executive style properties recently sold in still a lot cheaper than investing into other large shed, established and tidy yard and posi- Cobar with 4+ bedrooms, etc. are selling for areas such as Bathurst, Orange, Sydney, etc,” tioned on large blocks. the same price very average three-bedroom Brinley said.

“We have more interest in those than any homes are selling for in places like Mackay “Property prices in Cobar are currently a other property,” Brinley said. and Mudgee,” Brinley said. reflection of what each property is actually Most of those buyers are looking for a prop- “If you would like an executive style home worth. erty that requires minor work as they don’t in places like Mackay or Mudgee, the entry “We are now in line with the times!” Brinley have the time to do renovations. point begins at around $850,000 for something said.

Page 8 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday February 19, 2025

News

Coulton welcomes a 3G helpline

A long lunch

Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton has welcomed the launch of a helpline

by Telstra to support customers who need help after the closure of the 3G network.

Mr Coulton said the initiative will help customers to troubleshoot their issues.

“For some, this may be quite straight forward with device setting updates, upgrading to a blue tick device or installing a go repeater,” Mr Coulton said.

“For others, it may require escalation to better understand what the network experience is in their specific location to provide tailored assistance.”

Mr Coulton said different device types and the diversity of Australia’s landscape mean that each customer’s experience is unique, which is why customers are encouraged to work directly with Telstra to troubleshoot their issues.

“The helpline is staffed by a team of agents with deep knowledge on the transition to help troubleshoot why mobile experience may have changed,” Mr Coulton said.

For more visit: https://www.telstra.com/3gclosure

Minor fire was quickly contained

A small fire is reported to have occurred underground at the CSA Mine on Tuesday night.

CSA’s general manager Rob Walker advised the fire started in an inactive underground area of the mine.

Mr Walker said following its detection, mine personnel were evacuated as a precaution.

“All safety protocols were followed.

“There were no injuries, and operations resumed within a short period of time,” Mr Walker told The Cobar Weekly.

“An internal review/investigation is underway.”

All deadlines - 2pm Mondays All deadlines - 2pm Mondays All deadlines - 2pm Mondays

The Brennan Centre morning teas have become very popular. With morning tea goers wanting to stay longer and catch up with friends and listen to good music, organiser Pauline Hunter decided to extend the get-togethers to also include lunch. Pictured staying for lunch on Monday were Emily Harvey, Phyllis Thompson and Betty Wells.

Temperatures plummeted this week The temperatures plummeted in Cobar our coolest day when it only reached a top of this week with cooler days and very cool 23.9 degrees, which is 9.5 degrees below the nights recorded by the Bureau of Meteorolo- average for this time of year. gy.

The forecast for the week ahead is for warmResidents were pulling up their doonas and er days with 32 degrees predicted for today reaching for jumpers as the thermometer while tomorrow we’re expecting a top of 33. dipped to a chilly 11.7 degrees overnight on It should be sunny on Friday with a top of 34 Monday, which is 8.5 degrees cooler than the degrees and the outlook for Saturday is for a average for this time of the year. top of 35.

After a couple of warm days last week (35.7 It will warm up to 37 degrees on Sunday and on Wednesday and 37.5 on Thursday), it start- there’s a chance of showers. ed to cool down on Friday and only reached a We’re expecting the start of our working top of 32. week to be warm and sunny with a maximum Saturday’s high was 27.1 and Sunday was of 34 degrees on Monday.

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Deliveries Available Tuesday & Thursday Lunch Specials Mine Delivery available Wednesday February 19, 2025 The Cobar Weekly Page 9

News

Big career opportunities for local graduates with LLS Cobar’s Rob Grant is among 10 new grad- cent increase from the previous year.

Many graduates have gone on to secure longuates joining the NSW Government’s Local The 12-month program provides valuable on- er-term jobs, with 18 of the 23 graduates reLand Services (LLS) ranks. the-job training where graduates work closely cruited in 2023 and 2024 still working for LoAfter completing his studies at Cobar High with experienced Local Land Services staff to cal Land Services and other agencies within School and Charles Sturt University, Rob now support landholders and communities. the NSW Government. works in the field of natural resource manage- Participants receive dedicated mentoring Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, ment in agriculture and was hand-picked from support and access to development opportuni- Tara Moriarty congratulated the graduates and 122 applicants for the 2025 intake – a 160 per ties to jumpstart their careers. said their passion, enthusiasm and thirst for knowledge will be an asset to regional NSW. “These graduates are the future of our rural and regional communities, and the NSW Government is proud to invest in their career development, helping to ensure we have a ‘grow our own’ approach to developing experienced workers and addressing skill shortages,” Minister Moriarty said.

“The increase in applications this year shows working for Local Land Services and the NSW Government is an attractive and rewarding career choice.”

State Member for Barwon Roy Butler MP congratulated Rob on winning a much soughtafter place in the LLS graduate program.

“The program is a pathway to a great career on the frontline supporting regional communities, landholders and the environment,” Mr Butler said.

“The graduates will have the opportunity to put what they’ve learned at university into practice in a dynamic and supportive team focused on improving community outcomes across NSW.”

Rob Grant was hand-picked from 122 applicants for the 2025 intake to join the Local Land Services ranks. Photo contributed

International Women’s Day celebrations

The achievements and contributions made to our community by local women and girls will be celebrated next month as part of International Women’s Day (IWD) celebrations around the globe.

IWD celebrates the social, cultural and political achievements of women.

International Women’s Day is an occasion to review how far women have come in their struggle for equality, peace and development and to also reflect on how far they still have to go.

Back in 1911, only eight countries allowed women to vote, equal pay for equal work was unheard of – if women were allowed to work at all – and reproductive rights were nonexistent.

The IWD movement has helped to change that.

The day is also an opportunity for women to unite, network and mobilise for meaningful change.

The official United Nations theme for 2025 is ‘For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.”

Aurelia Metals/Peak Gold Mines will be hosting a morning tea to celebrate the important contributions their female staff play in the mining industry and all women in our community.

They have partnered with the Cobar Business Association to present the personal stories of local guest speakers.

Aurelia Metals/Peak Gold Mines invites all local women and girls to go along to the inspiring gathering to celebrate IWD 2025.

See advertisement opposite.

www.cobarweekly.com.au Page 10 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday February 19, 2025

News

Home buyers find their dream home More than 50,000 first home buyers, including some in Cobar, have found their dream home thanks to the Minns Labor Government’s signature stamp duty assistance program.

The popular initiative has seen first home buyers save an average of $20,540, easing the pressure on the key task of saving for a deposit.

Total stamp duty savings for first home buyers across NSW have topped $1 billion since July 2023.

First home buyers are using the program to get a foot on the property ladder in a market heavily influenced by investors.

The First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme provides a full exemption from stamp duty for eligible buyers purchasing up to $800,000, and a concession for purchases between $800,000 and $1 million.

This means first home buyers can save up to $30,529 in stamp duty.

Of the more than 50,000 first home buyers who have received support under the Minns Government’s program, more than 37,000 first home buyer households received a full exemption and more than 14,500 received a concession.

The 50,000 households milestone coincides with the release of a helpful dashboard detailing the program’s impact suburb-by-suburb.

The First Home Buyers Assistance Dashboard also provides program statistics by Local Government Area and regional classifications.

It will be updated regularly and can be viewed at: https://www.revenue.nsw.gov.au/ help-centre/resources-library/statistics/fhbadashboard First home buyers can learn more about the program and calculate their potential stamp duty savings at: https://www.nsw.gov.au/ housing-and-construction/home-buyingassistance/first home-buyers-assistancescheme/how-to-apply This program is part of a suite of reforms from the Minns Government to help address the housing crisis and ease cost of living pressures.

Entertainment was rated R

The entertainment at the Cobar Services Club on Saturday night was rated ‘R’ for really good fun! There was a full house (and then some) for the club’s first R Rated Bingo night. Experienced players who know the Bingo Lingo as well as Bingo ‘virgins’ enjoyed a light-hearted 21 (Adult fun). Experienced bingo caller, Colby Lawrence (who’s a 15, Young and keen), was 46 (Up to tricks) but did not 58 (Make them wait) as he regaled the room with his naughty wit and humour.

Fire calls were false alarms

A number of emergency calls made by members of the public reporting fires on the Endeavor Mine Access Road have turned out to be false alarms.

Rural Fire Service Far West Team’s Operational Officer David Moore said thankfully the calls reporting two suspected bushfires over the past week were “luckily both false alarms”.

“The smoke which was reported to us [last Thursday and the previous week] were both from different property Permit Burns within the vicinity of the mine,” Officer Moore explained.

“Members of the public were unsure of where it was coming from so were both good intent calls,” he said.

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AMUSEMENTS

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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

PLUMBERS

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

HYDRO EXCAVATIONS JNJ Contracting

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

PAINTERS & DECORATORS

0418 648 960 0419 438 202

6836 3355 0428 364 831 0408 054 470

TRANSMISSION SUPPLIES

SEPTIC SERVICES/ PUMPING

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

Pay once and your business is listed for six months!

First Entry: $42 Additional Entries: $15.75ea Boxed ad: $78.75

COBAR 24 Marshall Street

0428 342 626

Classifieds

Email: classifieds@cobarweekly.com.au Phone 6836 3616 Advertising Deadline Monday 2pm

All private party classified advertisements MUST be paid for by cash/cheque/credit card/direct deposit BEFORE publication

PUBLIC NOTICES SPANLINE REP IN AREA next week.

Rooms, Patios, Carports, Cladding.

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

Upcoming Public Training Courses to June 2025 COBAR 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) February 25 2025 Course will run again June 3 2025 RIIWHS204D Work safely at heights $310pp – 1 day course (must be over 16 yrs to enrol) February 26 2025 Course will run again June 4 2025 UETDRRF004 Perform rescue from a live LV panel + HLTAID009 Provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation $350pp – 1 day course February 27 2025 Course will run again June 5 2025 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 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

Page 14 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday February 19, 2025

PUBLIC NOTICES

MEETINGS

Public Meeting Tourism Advisory Committee Meeting

6PM TOMORROW

Thursday February 20

Cobar Memorial Services Club

THANK YOU

WANTED

POSITIONS VACANT

Wednesday February 19, 2025 The Cobar Weekly Page 15

POSITIONS VACANT

Page 16 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday February 19, 2025

POSITIONS VACANT APA is a leading Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) listed energy infrastructure business. We own and/or manage and operate a diverse $22 billion portfolio of gas, electricity, solar and wind assets. Consistent with our purpose to strengthen communities through responsible energy, we deliver approximately half of the nation's gas usage and connect Victoria with South Australia and New South Wales with Queensland through our interests in electricity transmission assets. We are also one of the largest owners and operators of renewable power generation assets in Australia, with wind and solar projects across the country.

APA has a strong commitment to achieving the best outcome through an inclusive and collaborative culture that rewards and celebrates courage, accountability and nimbleness to create positive legacies for our customers, communities, people and the environment.

1 TECHNICAL OFFICER - MECHANICAL • Permanent – Fulltime position • ASX Top 50 Leading Energy Infrastructure Company • Cobar, NSW

THE ROLE We now have an exciting opportunity available for a Technical Officer - Mechanical, to join our busy Operational and Maintenance team. This position will be based in Cobar and is a Permanent - Fulltime role within our organisation. Reporting to the Regional Manager, Cobar, you will work as an integral member of this highly skilled and multidisciplinary team of professionals.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Implement routine and unscheduled maintenance on pipeline system, Compressor Stations and Meter Pressure Reduction facilities, scraper stations and laterals and associated plant • Undertake technical analysis and evaluations on plant performance diagnosing solutions to reoccurring problems, recommending modifications and improvements on plant performance • Provide reliable data, plant histories and reports for analysis and review providing effective documentation for APA's programmed and corrective maintenance programs • Develop and maintain effective, supportive and reliable communication, professional working relationships with field and office based colleagues • Manage the onsite Permit to Work System in accordance with APA procedures

ABOUT YOU • Work experience in heavy industry desirable • Mechanical trade qualification with experience in transmission gas pipelines is preferred • A high degree of self motivation • Ability to work unsupervised • Good computer literacy skills

Extra qualities we seek • Knowledge of Gas Transmission /Distribution Systems advantageous

Sound like your kind of career? We'd love to hear from you.

APA is an equal opportunity employer. The safety and sustainability of our people, community and environment is our focus. We embrace diversity in our people to ensure our workforce is representative of the communities that we operate in. When you join us on this journey to success, you will have access to targeted career development programs, competitive remuneration, employee benefits, work–life balance and wellbeing programs.

Please submit your application via email to roger.mitchell@apa.com.au Applications close Friday, March 7th 2025

Wednesday February 19, 2025 The Cobar Weekly Page 17

Cobar Memorial Services Club 2 Marshall St | 6836 2102 cobarrsl@bigpond.com Fridays 7pm,

3.30pm RAFFLES Saturdays & Sundays 1-2pm

Sport

Sensational second half comeback A sensational second half by Concrete and Loma Atuau.

Cowboys in their Open Mixed Touch match Fast Fades’ points came from tries to Sam last Thursday against Makos saw them Best (2), Damon Bruce, Ellie Smith, Jayde come back from a 1-5 deficit at half time to George and Scott Evans. go on and claim an 8-6 win.

B&F points were earned by Atuau, Best and Makos held the upper hand in the match in Schaumkell. the first half after Rhylee Jeffery and Brianna Last season’s runners-up, Blossoms, ran Watson each crossed for double-pointer tries away to beat a depleted Rusty Snails side 11-3 (female tries are worth two points) and Jack in their Round 2 match last week.

Brown added the extra.

Sosie Barton led the scoring for her BlosTyler Coughlan was the only Concrete Cow- soms team with three tries. boy player to break through Mako’s defence Sarah Nicholson, Jack Dunn, Josh Burke in the first half. and Kai Taylor also crossed for a try each.

It was however a different story in the sec- In reply, Nathan Prince (2) and Ben ond half.

McBride scored for Rusty Snails.

Bridgette Negfeldt, Rori Urquhart, Taylah James McMullen (Blossoms), Mark Good and Ryan Urquhart’s second half touch- McBride (Rusty Snails) and Barton shared the downs helped the Cowboys to steal the win. game’s B&F points.

Tadgh McMullen added an extra point to The competition’s new side this season, Mako’s tally with his try, but the victory had Running On Empty, looked to have “plenty in slipped out of their reach. the tank” when they claimed a big 14-3 win Good, Jed Noonan (Makos) and Ashley over Guns N Hoses last week.

Davies (Concrete Cowboys) shared the refer- Ethan McLeod put his foot down to score ees’ Best & Fairest points. three tries with team mates Mason King and In a close match, Red Hot Chilli Steppers Alora Deppeler crossing for two tries each. outstepped Fast Fades to finish with an 11-8 Ashton Dietrich, Beigh Hillier, Bridie Bruce win. and Frank Cannon also added a try each to Chilli Steppers narrowly led 4-2 at the break their tally. and held off a fight back by Fast Fades to Guns N Hoses’ three points came from a try finish with a three point win. each to Isaac Theakston, Jayden Cryer and Tries for Chilli Steppers were recorded by Aiden Porter.

Kayla Hasson (2), Gerald Mackey, Jackson Cannon, Porter and Theakston shared B&F Muldoon, Michelle Gillette, Riki Schaumkell points.

Close games the order of the day

Punters Club: John C, Ally & Peter H

THANK YOU!

A huge thank you to Colby for hosting R Rated Bingo on Saturday—no one else can get away with what Colby does!

Close games were the order of the day Barton; Pink—Isabelle Gillette (2), Josh for the start of the Seniors and Juniors Francisco (5), Kai McCosker (2) and MonTouch competitions at Ward Oval on tana Grentell; Yellow—Chloe Griffiths (2), Thursday.

Mason King and Taj Goonrey (2); and A double-header kicked off the new com- Green—Tom Francisco (2), Billy Watt and petition with each side playing two time Jack Dunn. modified games.

In the Juniors competition (9-12 years), In the Seniors competition (13-16 years), Orange and Yellow were undefeated in both Blue and Pink both finished with a win and a of their matches. draw, with the draw recorded in the match Orange won their Round 1 match, 4-1, over they played against each other.

Red and then went on to account for Blue, Blue won their Round 1 game 5-1 against 6-4, in their Round 2 game.

Green while Pink recorded a 9-3 victory over Yellow narrowly won their first game of Yellow in their first match. the night, 6-5, over Blue and then just got the When the two sides met in their Round 2 better of Red to win, 4-3, in their second game, neither gave an inch on the scoreboard match. and the match finished in a 4-all draw.

Earning Best & Fairest points were: OrThe other Round 2 game was also a close ange—Josh McMillan, Rhylee Nicholson and one with Yellow just pipping Green, 4-3, to Alfie Toomey; Red—Bria-June Brookman, claim the win.

Hugo Josephson and Michael Rogers; YelTry scorers from the four games were: low—Ella Armstrong, Indie Burke, Harlym Blue—Holly Watt, Rhylee Patterson, Addi- Curtis and Rosie George; and Blue—Taj son Cull, Cohan Nicholson (2) and Rowdy Goonrey and Josh Gillette.

Tax return appointments available in Cobar

Please phone Ruth Mullins - 6883 2200

www.lukagroup.com.au Mega Meat Tray Winner: Susie L Page 18 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday February 19, 2025

Servicing Cobar for over 20 years

Sport

Jones and Harland take home prizes and the points Tom Jones and Murray Harland took home two stubby holder prizes each last week at the Cobar Yabbies Senior Men’s Swimming Club event.

The Yabbies stubby holders are handed out each week to the winners of each of the four events, the 100m, 50m and 30m handicapped freestyle swims and Brace Relay novelty event.

Jones earned his first one in the 100m event and Harland collected his first in the 50m.

The pair then teamed up to win their second stubby holders in the Brace Relay.

Jones finished with the best time in the 100m event when he clocked 0.13 seconds off his nominated time.

Harland was just behind in second place on 0.45 seconds and Bill Fugar was further back in third place with 1.04 seconds off his time.

In the 50m swim, Harland swam an identical time to what won him the 50m Western Districts title two days prior, 0.12 seconds off his nominated time.

Jason Toomey also clocked 0.12 seconds off his nominated time to share first place honours with Harland. Jones was further back in third place with 0.31.

Greg Dimond grabbed first place honours (and a stubby holder) when he finished spot on his nominated time in the 30m swim.

Chris Powell was second (0.03) and Harland was once again back on the podium, this time in third place, with a time of 0.07 seconds off his nominated time.

Jones and Harland continued their good run when they teamed up for the Brace Relay, which required the Yabbies to skip across the pool.

The pair finished within 0.19 seconds of their combined nominated time.

Fugar and Bob Clark were second (0.69) and Dimond and James Daymond were third with 0.81 seconds off their nominated time.

Harland’s efforts for the night earned him 18 points to add to his club championship tally while Jones added 14 points to his total this season.

COBAR

Best of the bunch

There was a big turn out of 40 competitors for the Cobar Athletics & Triathlon Squad’s (CATS) teams challenge event at the Cobar Memorial Swimming Pool on Sunday. Pictured are the handicapped winners: 1st—Cobar Roosters Junior Rugby League team of Ashton Campbell, Cooper Trudgett and Hannah Trudgett, 2nd—Mick Howell; and 3rd—the Jig team of Seigrid Peters and Jess Fugar. Photo contributed

24 Marshall Street

The Cobar Weekly Proudly serving the community for 38 years

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 Wednesday February 19, 2025 The Cobar Weekly Page 19

Sport

Tony Brown throws 180 in first round Three pistol events

Three events were held at the Cobar AmaA new season of darts commenced last highest was 40, thrown by Paige Coleman. teur Pistol Club on Sunday with a big field Wednesday night with nine teams entering In tonight’s matches, Golfie Ones & Fives of 14 shooters taking part. the new competition. take on Empire Barflies; RSL Minors play In the 25m Sports event, Michael Tidyman The highlight of round one was the first 180 Golfie Gophers; Golfie Dartaholics host RSL earned himself a new handicap of 178 after he score of the season, thrown by RSL Minors’ Dingoes; RSL meet Golfie Spearchuckers. shot an impressive 402 off pistol and, with his Tony Brown.

Western Grumblebums will have the night old handicap of 293, finished with a total score Golfie Ones & Fives, Empire Barflies, RSL off with the bye. of 695. (Tidyman also competed in the 25m and Western Grumblebums were all first round Centre Fire event and scored 342-178-520.) winners.

Other scores recorded in the 25m Sports Western Grumblebums had a big 8-1 win event were: Tracey Lawrence 429-169-598; over Golfie Spearchuckers; Golfie Ones & After an early setback, Howie’s Hombres Chris Driver 546-44-590; Geoff Clayton 389Fives defeated RSL Minors 5-4; Empire Bar- went on to comfortably beat Bushies in their 170-559; Tony Punzet 380-121-501; Robert flies were too good for Golfie Dartaholics win- Twenty/20 cricket match at Ward Oval on Neate 441-48-489; Geoff Passfield 252-178ning 5-4; and RSL beat RSL Dingoes in their Friday night.

Bushies won the toss and elected to bat first 430; Anita Neate 116-253-369 and Jason match, also by a 5-4 margin.

The other team in the competition, Golfie and set a target of 114 runs after managing to Holmgreen 495-79-574.

(Holmgreen also competed in the 25m Censcore 6/113 in their 20 overs.

Gophers, had the bye. tre Fire event but did not finish due to a fireThey had gotten off to a rocky start with Hundreds and high scores were recorded last week by: Empire Barflies—Lesley Hooker Prajwal Kharel falling early for just two runs. arm malfunction.)

107, 120, 100, Paige Coleman 100 and Waylon Anthony Mitchell, contributing 14 runs, was Four handicaps were broken in the 25m CenWard 100, 119; Golfie Dartaholics—Ben Jebb the next to depart, followed by a quick succes- tre Fire event.

John Woloczij shot 337 off pistol and, with 100 and Jason Arnold 100, 100; RSL Din- sion of wickets that left Bushies at 6/78. goes—Pat O’Malley 100 and Mat Suridge 100; A solid 47-run contribution from James his handicap of 350, finished with a total score Golfie Spearchuckers—Robbie Cummins 105, McClure was the standout of the innings, as the of 687 and a new handicap of 237.

116; RSL—Nathan Thornley 100, 100, Tyler Bushies went on to post a respectable total of Tracey Lawrence earned herself a new handicap when she shot 386 off pistol.

Roberts 121 and Kyle Roberts 100, 140, 100; 114.

Western Grumblebums—Shane Clements 108, Wickets were shared between all the Hom- With her old handicap of 263, she finished John-Wayne Josephson 140, 100, 140 and bres bowlers with Tom Mckenna having the with a total score of 649.

Her new handicap is now 193.

Craig Jones 121, 124; RSL Minors—Tony best figures of 2/16.

Brown 100, 180, Reilly Brown 100, Deni In their chase, Howie’s Hombres initially Todd Manns is also sporting a new handicap Brown 123 and Bian Smith 130; Golfie Ones faced an early setback as Tom Mckenna (10) of 144. He shot 443-172-615.

Chris Driver’s new handicap is 46 after he & Fives—Daniel Duell 100, 125, 120, 100, and Mark Fraser (6) were dismissed early.

100, 100, Jaci Duell 120, Brendhan Freeman However, Jay Egan, remaining unbeaten on scored 549-61-610.

48 from 39 balls, guided his team to a steady Geoff Clayton scored 277-206-483 in this 118, 119, 100 and Rachel Ward 160. event.

Brown’s 180 was the highest score of the victory. week for the men while the ladies’ highest Support came from Slade Neale who The third match was an Air Pistol event with smashed 31 runs at the top of the order as Lloyd Mitchell the lone shooter scoring 401. score was 160, recorded by Rachel Ward.

The men’s highest peg out was 65, recorded Howie’s Hombres crossed the finish line com- This Sunday’s event will be a 25m Rapid Fire Shoot.

by John-Wayne Josephson, while the ladies’ fortably.—contributed

Hombres recover

Page 20 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday February 19, 2025

Sport

A record triathlon turn out for the cash prize on offer With a $250 team prize on offer, there was a record turnout of 40 competitors for the Cobar Athletics & Triathlon Squad’s (CATS) Copper City Team Challenge triathlon on Sunday.

The Spin Girls team of Bobbi Murray, Katrina Francisco and Kylie Marsden claimed the prizemoney donated by Chris Deighton from Copper City Tyres.

The trio completed the Short Course (300m swim/10km ride/2km run) in 36 min 49 seconds and were closest to their nominated time of 37 minutes.

The team has chosen to donate their prizemoney to the Cobar Swimming Club.

The handicap winners were the Cobar Roosters Junior Rugby League team of Cooper Trudgett, Hannah Trudgett and Ashton Campbell, who finished the Short Course in 32.18 min.

Second was Mick Howell who tackled the Long Course (500m swim/20km ride/4km run) and recorded a time of 1hr 8min 36sec.

The Jig team of Seigrid Peters and Jess Fugar were third with a time of 52 min 53 sec in the Short Course.

Other performances of note were: Rabi Phuyal, who set a new club record time in the 2km run of 7min 20 sec (beating the old mark of 7.40 set by Greg McKervey); eight year old Lenny Hill completed his first leg in the triathlon, a 5km ride in the Try-a-Tri event; Breeze Fairfull added the swim leg to The Spin Girls, Katrina Francisco, Kylie Marsden and Bobbi Murray won the CATS’ her bike leg in the team event; and Alex Len- Team Challenge triathlon on Sunday and collected the $250 prize money donated by non rode the Short Course bike leg after hav- Chris Deighton from Copper City Tyres. The ladies have donated their winnings to the ing done no training and was only convinced by his team mate Huw Rabone, to join him Cobar Swimming Club. Photo contributed the night before!

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We’re on Facebook! Search Cobar Auto Port Wednesday February 19, 2025 The Cobar Weekly Page 21

Sport

St John’s School 2025 swimming champions decided St John’s Primary School held their annual swimming carnival at the Cobar Memorial Swimming Pool on Friday with Mackillop (Green) finishing as the winning house.

The 2025 Champions and Runners-up from the carnival were: Junior Girl Champion— Delilah McBride; Junior Boy Champion— Archer Fugar; Junior Girl R/up—Aubree Everingham; Junior Boy R/up—Aisea Fakahua; 11 Years Girl Champion—Sophia Le Lievre; 11 Years Boy Champion—Joshua Gillette; 11 Years Girl R/up—Queena Jiang; 11 Years Boy R/up—Keelan Atuau; Senior Girl Champion—Kasalia Fakahua; Senior Boy Champion—Ryan Jiang; Senior Girl R/ up—Izabella Curtis; and Senior Boy R/up— Taj Goonrey.

A school squad of 22 swimmers will be competing at the Cluster Swimming Carnival in Nyngan this Friday against other swimmers from Nyngan, Bourke and Brewarrina.

Country carnival Cobar Swimming Club’s Henry Knight competed at the NSW Country Championships at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre over the weekend.

Henry had qualified for the Boys 17 Years and Over 50 Freestyle Final with a time of St John’s School held their annual swimming carnival at the Cobar Memorial Swimming 26.95 seconds and the 50 Butterfly Final with Pool on Friday. Pictured are some of the competitors: Ryan Jiang (who finished as the 28.84.

At the carnival he swam just under those Senior Boy Champion); Keelan Atuau (11 Years Boy Runner-Up), Hayden Betcke and times (27.34 in Freestyle and 29.02 in ButterJoshua Gillette (11 Years Boy Champion). fly) to finish 38th and 35th respectively.

Page 22 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday February 19, 2025

COBAR BOWLING & GOLF CLUB Bloxham St | Ph: 6836 2214 | Restaurant: 6836 2052

WIN BIG AT THE GOLFIE Thursdays

Meat Raffles

Plus Losing TAB & KENO draws Tickets on sale from 6pm, drawn at 7pm

Fridays

Saturdays

Jerry the Joker $6,000 Tickets on sale from 6pm, drawn at 7pm

Market Night Raffles Raffles 10 x $25 Cobar Quids Meat Trays, Fruit & Veg Trays, Cobar Quids Tickets on sale from 6pm, drawn at 7pm Fridays & Sundays

Spin the Wheel Second Chance Jackpot Draw

Jackpot at $1,300 Drawn after the raffles

Members Badge Draw

End of Month Members Draw Next Friday, February 28 1st: $800 2nd: $500 3rd: $200

Thur | Fri | Sat | Sun

Starting at $1,650 Drawn after the raffles

Sundays

Market Night Raffles Meat Trays, Fruit/Veg Trays, Quids Tickets on sale from 6pm, drawn at 7pm

Sportspick for 2025 NRL & AFL tipping comp now open $50 Entry, Cash Prizes Footy Tippers Dinner Saturday 11th October (after the Grand Finals) See bar staff to enter

FRIDAY TWILIGHT BOWLS - $12 Register: 6.45pm Start: 7pm SUNDAY SOCIAL BOWLS - $10 Register: 8.45am Start: 9am

Social Bowls is open to all. New players and visitors welcome!

Summer Social Golf

Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays Check our Facebook page for format and tee-off times! Open to men, women, visitors and newcomers.

Sunday Mornings: Junior Golf 5-10 years: 9am—10am Over 10 years: 10am—11.30am Meet on course, bring water and hat Instructor Narelle Kriz: 0427 491 563

THINK! ABOUT YOUR CHOICES. CALL GAMBLING HELP on 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelp.nsw.gov.au

Wednesday February 19, 2025 The Cobar Weekly Page 23

Sport

Cash prize entices a big field

Tony Brown throws 180 in first darts round

Page 21

Page 20

Cobar falls short in grand final encounter

Cobar posted a competitive total of 153 batting first against Dubbo in the grand final of the Brewery Shield competition at Victoria Park in Dubbo on Sunday.

The Cobar side however failed to defend that total and Dubbo took the win.

After narrowly beating Mudgee the week before in the semi final, the Cobar Cowboys thought they had a good chance of rolling the Dubbo side in the all important grand final game.

After electing to bat, Cobar found themselves in early trouble in Sunday’s grand final against Dubbo with Cowboys’ openers Jake Harbison (2) and Jay Egan (0) dismissed cheaply in the first over.

However, James McClure played a crucial knock of 51 runs, anchoring the innings for the Cobar Cowboys.

The Cobar Bowling & Golf Club’s Pennants bowls team at Gilgandra on Sunday: Aravinth Naguleswarampillai also contribMichael Sargent, Rory Dunlop, Paul Kershaw, Bian Smith, Russell Brosi, Peter ‘Skeet’ uted 41 runs, but tight bowling from the team, and the loss of wickets at cruGoonrey, Don Roberts, Dean McLeod, Michael McManus, John Daly and Tony Dubbo cial times, saw Cobar finish at 153 all out in Polack. Photo contributed 49.1 overs.

With 153 to defend, Cobar started well with Tristan Everett and Jake Harbison taking early wickets to have Dubbo at 2/28.

The Cobar Bowling & Golf Club’s bowls Michael Sargent, Russell Brosi, Rory Dunlop Then when Phil Harley struck in his second Pennants team had a resounding win against and Bian Smith narrowly lost their game by one over, Dubbo looked shaky at 3/55.

However, with Dubbo batters Lochlan Gilgandra at Gilgandra on Sunday. shot!

Cobar won two of their three games played The winners of Sunday’s social game were George leading the way and finishing not out earning a total of nine points out of a possible Karen Daly, David Kershaw and Cole Bunting on 53 and Khurram Tahir providing much10 points. who won their game by +11 over David needed aggression with 46 runs, Cobar’s bowlers fought to stay in the game.

Don Roberts, Kyle Roberts, John Daly and Schofield, Jay McKellar and Carmel Smith.

Mick McManus won their game by a margin of John Goonrey and Allan Gardoll finished as They failed to take the regular wickets +12. the runners-up after they beat Doug Hudson needed to defend what was now looking like a modest total.

Peter ‘Skeet’ Goonrey, Dean McLeod, Tony and Greg Clark by +7.

Polack and Paul Kershaw finished as +8 win- This week’s George The Giraffe Award re- Ultimately, Dubbo managed to secure the win, finishing at 4/153.—Contributed ners in their game. cipient was Carmel Smith.—The Second

Golfie team’s resounding win

37 Linsley Street Cobar

AgBoss

WEEDFORCE Range Weed & Pest Control REAL ESTATE SALES

LIVESTOCK SALES

P: (02) 6836 2234

We are here to help with all your weed control and pest control needs

We stock a range of AgBoss hoses RURAL MERCHANDISE

Page 24 The Cobar Weekly Wednesday February 19, 2025

www.nutrienrussell.com.au

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