The Cobar Weekly
Forecasters warning of Council participates Discussions continue on national
CSA donates $20,000 to Brennan Centre
Cobar Brennan Centre committee members Barry Knight, Samantha Smith, Troy Knight and Colleen Boucher were pleased to recently receive a $20,000 donation from MAC Copper/CSA Mine (who was represented by employee Simone Willis). The contribution has gone towards various cosmetic projects, maintenance and helped to refurbish an existing unit at the centre. The donation was approved by former CSA Mine general manager Robert Walker, who said the company was committed to giving back to the community with the Brennan Centre having supported staff members’ families and friends in the past and potentially in the future.
Weather forecasters are
It may look like spring and feel like spring, however weather forecasters are warning it’s only a ‘fake spring’.
The thermometer topped out at a very spring -like 26.7 degrees on Tuesday, which is well above the average of 18.2 degrees for this time of the year.
The run of above average weather began on Friday when it reached 19.1, Saturday was warm and sunny at 21.5 and Sunday’s top temperature was 20.1 degrees.
Our run of unseasonably warm weather however came to an end yesterday (it hadn’t quite reached 18 degrees by the time we went to print) and we can expect a shift toward cooler conditions over the coming week.
The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting it will reach a top of 18 today while tomorrow forecast is 20 degrees with the slight chance of a shower of rain.
Saturday is expected to be a partly cloudy day with a top of 14.
After an overnight low of just three degrees, there is the chance of a morning frost on Sunday and it should warm up to a high of 17 degrees during the day.
Monday is predicted to be partly cloudy with a maximum of 18 degrees (after an overnight low of four degrees).
Rainfall of varying amounts was recorded in the Cobar Shire last week.
Sheena Geppert recorded one of the highest falls of 31mm at Restdown Station near Canbelego.
According to the Bureau, the total we received in town was much less with 13.4mm of rain recorded in the town’s gauge.
Newly planted flowers in the CBD definitely make it look like spring has already arrived.
Far west councils are taking part in an electric vehicle trial
Cobar Shire Council will be taking part in the Far North West Electric Vehicle Trial over the next three weeks.
A Kia EV5 Air Long Range SUV will be tested in local conditions to assess whether it and/or other electric vehicles (EVs) can meet the requirements of Council’s fleet.
This initiative is being undertaken in collaboration with the Far North West Joint Organisation (FNWJO) as part of the Joint Organisations Net Zero Acceleration (JONZA) project, funded by the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).
The project explores how electric vehicles (EVs) can assist in reducing energy use and greenhouse gas emissions across Council operations.
Cobar Mayor, Jarrod Marsden is pleased to see Cobar Shire is taking part in this regional trial.
“It’s a practical way to understand how new technologies can support our community while moving towards a more sustainable future,” Cr Marsden said.
Council
’s general manager, Peter Vlatko is looking forward to seeing how the EV performs under local conditions and testing the manufacturer’s claim of a 555-kilometre driving range.
“Council is always looking at opportunities to use assets more efficiently, and this trial will help us assess the potential benefits of EVs in terms of lower fuel and maintenance costs,” Mr Vlatko said.
He said the trial is only one part of Council’s broader efforts to reduce energy consumption and costs.
“We recently had an energy expert conduct audits of our highest energy-using sites as part of the JONZA project.
“These results will help us identify the most effective options for improving energy efficiency across Council facilities,” he said.
Council’s Fleet and Facilities Coordinator, Rachel Ward, said the trial was an opportunity to experience first-hand how EVs could fit into Council’s fleet.
“The trial will give us valuable insights into the practicalities and opportunities of using EVs in a regional setting,” she said.
Council’s Environmental Officer, Godwin Pauly, is also interested in the trial. “I was initially a little sceptical about the range, but not about the acceleration, it’s impressive.
“Trials like this give us the chance to properly test EVs under Cobar’s conditions and see how they can support our environmental goals,” Mr Pauly said.
Coonamble, Walgett, and Bourke Shire Councils are also participating in the trial, sharing the Long Range SUVs in three-week blocks.
Cobar Shire Council’s Fleet and Facilities Coordinator, Rachel Ward, and Environmental Officer, Godwin Pauly, are both keen to
how the Kia EV5 Air Long Range SUV will test in local conditions as part of the Far North West Electric Vehicle Trial over the next three weeks. Photo contributed
Punters Club: Peter H, Ally and Gandy
Preserving our history
Cobar women urged to put their health first
Cobar women are being urged to put their health first during Women’s Health Week next week by booking a cervical screening test.
Cobar women have the lowest rate of cervical screening in the Western NSW Local Health District with less than half the women in our community (44.8 per cent) up to date with their cervical screening,
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers.
Statistics show that 70 per cent of women who get cervical cancer have never been screened or did not screen regularly.
Cervical screening is quick, simple and could save a woman’s life.
This simple test will pick up any early changes to the cervix long before cancer develops.
The test only takes a few minutes, and for most women aged 25–74, it’s needed just once every five years.
Women can even choose a selfcollected test for more privacy and comfort.
Cobar Shire Council is currently in the process of updating our historical business information signs around the CBD. Originally an initiative of the Cobar Business Association, the signs tell the history of our early Cobar businesses and business people. This one on the corner of Marshall and Linsley streets tells the history of WH
Cobar women are encouraged to book a test with the Women’s Health Nurse who will be at the Cobar Health Service next week or call into the Women’ Health Expo at the Youth Centre next Tuesday to get more information about screening.
Local women are encouraged to invite their friends, sisters, and mums to do the same.
www.cobarweekly.com.au
National Parks discussion is on Council’s agenda
The recent purchase of almost 35,000 hectares of agriculture land in the far west by the NSW Government to be converted to National Parks, will be discussed at Cobar Shire Council’s Ordinary Meeting today.
Cr Bob Sinclair has put forward a Notice of Motion to the meeting looking for support for the Government to provide a business case and management plans for all lands purchased as National Parks within the Far West Region.
Cr Sinclair’s calls upon Council to seek the support of the Far North West Joint Organisation (FNWJO) to write to the Premier and relevant Ministers in the NSW Government for information about all the land purchased as National Parks in the Far West region over the last five years.
Cr Sinclair asks if there are any other means of protecting native fauna and flora i.e. nature credits and how such purchases have and will affect the local communities and their Councils.
He also calls on Council to obtain a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the NSW Government to take into consideration council rates, access to water, road and fire trail maintenance, the erection and maintenance of national park boundary fences, payment of Wild Dog fence rates when breeding programs for wild dogs exist south of the Wild Dog fence, the control of feral animals and noxious weeds.
The matter of the land acquisition was also discussed at Council’s Rural Roads Advisory Committee meeting at Tilpa earlier this month.
Tilpa community resident Justin McClure recommended that Council establish an MOU with National Parks and approach State Member for Barwon Roy Butler to advocate for National Parks’ financial contributions equivalent to rates. He recommended that FNWJO push for clear agreements between Council and National Parks.
Cr Sinclair’s motion is one of two Notices of Motion to be tabled at today’s meeting.
In the second Notice of Motion, Cr Wayne Phillips is calling for the Mayor (on behalf of Council) to write to the Local Government NSW and seek support and action in addressing the lack of mobile phone coverage that occurs between townships that currently exists, in particular in regional NSW.
Calling out bad behaviour
Dear editor,
To those responsible for cutting fences and chasing cattle around Wrightville Common in a 4WD, your actions are reckless and cruel.
These animals, including young calves that have only just been marked, are being harassed and stressed.
Some cows are heavily pregnant, and it’s believed that two heifers have already been removed from the common and possibly slaughtered.
To anyone considering starting a family with people who behave like this, I would think twice.
In my books, these clowns show a complete lack of respect, compassion, and responsibility.
If anyone has information about those involved, please contact me or report it to the police.
Mick Griffiths, Cobar
Banned from one, banned from all
Six patrons who all received three month bans from the Great Western Hotel for bad behaviour have also copped a further ban from the Cobar Services Club.
A list of barred patrons from each local licensed premises was discussed at a recent Cobar Liquor Accord committee meeting.
Two males who were fighting at the Great Western, another male who inappropriately touched a female, along with two males who decided to serve themselves and a female who was caught fighting, were all given a three month ban and the matters reported to police.
Following the incidents at the Great Western Hotel, the Cobar Services Club has invoked a one month ban on each as per the club’s licence rules.
Another woman, who was acting inappropriately at the Services Club, and then became aggressive towards staff when she was asked to leave, initially received a three month from the premises.
The matter was taken to the club’s board of directors who awarded a higher penalty and banned the woman from the premises for 12 months.
Touring the town
We ve had lots of tourists heading through town over the past month on their way to and from the Mundi Mundi Bash music festival near Broken Hill and we’ve also had some bus tours calling in to see the sights. This group stopped for the obligatory photo at the COBAR sign, visited the Cobar Sound Chapel and also the Newey as part of their tour with a local guide, Samantha Smith, from the Great Cobar Museum
Photo contributed
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Police conduct Operation RAID
Motorists affected by alcohol, drugs and fatigue were targeted by police across NSW roads, including in the Cobar Shire, during Operation RAID last week.
Operation RAID (Remove All Impaired Drivers) 2025 commenced at 12.01am on Thursday and concluded at 11.59pm on Saturday.
During the three-day operation, police conducted more than 87,000 breath tests with 186 drink driving offences detected, and conducted 9,166 drug tests with 660 people returning positive samples.
While the operation focused on detecting drivers operating a vehicle impaired by alcohol, drugs or fatigue, the high-visibility operation saw police across the state issue 5,577 traffic infringement notices, including 1,342 for speed related offences, 217 for mobile phone usage, and 71 seatbelt/helmet related offences.
Police attended 261 major crashes with two people having died on NSW roads – one of those in regional areas.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said that police will continue to target dangerous drivers but real change starts with the choices people make before they even turn the key.
“These numbers are a sobering reminder that driving is a responsibility not a right.
“People don’t get into a car expecting their lives to change forever but it happens every day,” Minister Catley said.
“A split second of carelessness or recklessness can mean someone never makes it home.
“Police don’t knock on a door to tell a family their loved one is gone because of bad luck.
“It’s the devastating result of a decision that that someone has to live with – or not live through – for the rest of their life.
“As the roads get busier heading into the warmer months, we’re urging every driver to make safe choices.”
Assistant Commissioner David Driver, Commander of Traffic and Highway Patrol, said Operation RAID saw police vehicles out across the state on the streets targeting impaired drivers.
“The results of the operation speak for themselves,” Assistant Commissioner Driver said.
“It is a reminder that anyone who presents a danger on our roads will become a focus.
“People can be stopped for random breath or drug testing, and this can occur on any road at any time,” he said.
“If you are contemplating this type of dangerous behaviour, have a good think about your actions.
“Think about other innocent road users, those in your vehicle and the families that will be impacted by your actions or inactions, including your own.
“Our commitment to reducing road trauma doesn’t stop when Operation RAID concludes. Police will continue to maintain a strong presence on the roads,” Assistant Commissioner Driver said.
CWA prepares to celebrate 100 years
The Country Women’s Association (CWA) Cobar Branch held its August meeting recently to discuss the upcoming Celebration of its 100 Years in the Community in October 2026.
CWA Cobar Branch President Colleen Boucher reports the club will be holding an Awareness Week next month.
“This is celebrated every year at the same time,” Mrs Boucher said.
“Cobar Branch will be open to the public with a barbecue, stalls and a display showing what CWA is involved in across the state.”
She said some of the group’s projects, like The Land Cookery competition, are open to the public for their participation.
The group also participates in handicraft competitions between other CWA branches in the Far West Group and beyond.
Mrs Boucher said Agriculture and Environment topics are selected to study at the CWA
State Conference each year and this year’s focus will be on Australian Cut Flowers and Micro Bats.
CWA’s Cultural Studies on other Countries in the Commonwealth will this year spotlight South Korea.
CWA branches will also discuss various state social issues, continue to advocate for better conditions in country areas, including women’s health issues, and continue to fundraise for disaster relief where needed across NSW.
Mrs Boucher shared a CWA recipe: To make us happy and agreeable to other people, you need: 1lb good temper, 1lb patience, 3lb unselfishness, 2lb cheerfulness, 2lb tolerance, 1½lb contentment and 1lb fun. Mix well with two quarts of human kindness.
Dose: One glass full to be taken first thing in the morning and repeated as soon as the effects wear off. contributed
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Positive results from Blue Heeler
Mount Hope Mining Limited has announced positive results from a recently completed electromagnetic survey at their Blue Heeler prospect.
Located 2km south of the historical Great Central & Comet Copper mines at the Mt Hope Project, south of Cobar, Blue Heeler is shaping up to be an exciting new target for the company.
Mount Hope Mining Managing Director & CEO Fergus Kiley said last week that drill results identified strong EM conductors sit in a highly prospective position along a major mineralised basin structure (Sugar Loaf Fault), which is responsible for the Mt Hope, Great Central & Comet copper mines.
He said geological signs, coupled with historical data were “extremely positive”.
Mr Kiley explained the prospect lies 1km south of the Anomaly 3 prospect (which contains a gold-rich, weathered massive sulphide lens), and is situated at a geological boundary between volcanic and sedimentary rocks, on the edge of a magnetic target.
He said all point “towards the positive prospectivity of the Blue Heeler target”.
“Which is why we are advancing this target to be included in our upcoming drill program,” Mr Kiley said.
Did you know The Cobar Weekly is a not-for-profit community newspaper? Any profits generated go back into the running of the paper.
Magical princesses
Among the many characters at Cobar Public School’s Book Week parade last Wednesday at the school were three beautiful princesses, Sunny Murray, Mary-Jane Miller and Myla Fullagar. Other Book Week activities at the school included a teddy bear sleepover in the school library and a Parent Picnic after the Book Week parade.
Photo contributed
Targeting weeds in far West NSW
Western Local Land Services (Western LLS) has partnered with local landholders to deliver targeted weed control works in Far West NSW.
The on-ground works come following a survey to determine the presence, spread and density of four priority weeds: Jumping Cholla (Cylindropuntia fulgida), Boxing Glove Cactus (Cylindropuntia fulgida var. mamillata), Hudson Pear (Cylindropuntia pallida) and Mesquite (Prosposis).
Following the survey, WLLSs worked with landholders to undertake strategic weed control activities on a number of properties with heavy Mesquite infestations.
Further weed control works with landholders is planned to occur on properties in the coming months.
WLLS General Manager, Erlina St Vincent said partnering with landholders to deliver
these important on-ground works will have positive outcomes for primary production and the environment.
“Weeds are a significant issue for many landholders in the Far West so opportunities like this to undertake targeted on-ground works provides valuable support,” Erlina said.
“In addition to the on-ground works that have and will be delivered, the data collected through the survey can be used to help inform future weed control projects and activities, as well as advocate for further funding for onground works.”
Landholders wanting further information about managing weeds on their property should speak with their Local Control Authority, by contacting their local shire council
For further information about identifying priority weeds in their area, landholders can visit: weeds.dpi.nsw.gov.au
Charity runner to pass through Cobar
Broken Hill man Mitch McKenny will pass through Cobar on Monday on his 1,100km, 27 day run to Newcastle to raise money for a family friend.
Mitch said this endurance challenge isn’t just about distance; it’s about creating awareness, raising vital funds, and bringing hope to families living with Angelman syndrome.
Mitch’s friends’ Jess and Bree Maguire’s son Huxley, after months of illness and traumatic tests, was diagnosed with Angelman syndrome, a rare genetic disorder.
Angelman syndrome affects the functioning nerves in the brain and can cause physical and intellectual problems.
After receiving the diagnosis, Huxley’s family decided to use it as a motivator to help them find a cure.
After connecting with the Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics Australia
(FAST), Mitch decided a run would be the best way he could contribute.
FAST Australia is dedicated to advancing research, care, and advocacy for Angelman Syndrome (AS), ensuring families receive timely diagnoses, expert-informed care, education, and access to clinical trials.
Through initiatives like the Global Angelman Syndrome Registry, the Navigators clinical nurse program, and efforts to improve early diagnosis, FAST is working to accelerate progress toward effective treatments, and ultimately, a cure.
Mitch left Broken Hill on Friday (on Huxley’s first birthday) and is scheduled to pass through Cobar on Monday.
Along the way, he will stop in regional centers, engaging with local Angelman syndrome communities and sharing the mission of Huxley’s Heroes.
With each step, this run is not just a test of endurance but a call to action uniting communities, raising awareness, and moving closer to life-changing treatments for those with Angelman syndrome.
To make a donation or find out more about the run, go to: https://move-for-a-cure-huxleys -heroes.raiselysite.com/
Royal Far West welcomes funding announcement
A renewed government commitment to foundational supports through the launch of the Thriving Kids program has been welcomed by the Royal Far West (RFW).
Health Minister Mark Butler last week announced the national initiative aimed at improving outcomes for children with mild to moderate developmental delay and autism.
RFW is a specialist child development service providing vital support to improve the health and wellbeing of children in rural and remote areas.
RFW’s Chief Medical Dr Marcel Zimmet welcomed the government’s renewed focus on foundational supports and the introduction of the Thriving Kids program.
“This is an opportunity to build a system that is more responsive, more equitable, and more tailored to the needs of children – especially those growing up in rural and remote Australia,” Dr Zimmet said.
“Early intervention is key – but many families in rural and remote communities have little or no access to early intervention services and this is where the need is greatest.
“We need developmental supports that are universal in intent but not uniform in design.
“They must reflect the realities of life in the bush and the needs of our country kids.”
The latest Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) data shows that children in remote and very remote areas are significantly more likely to be developmentally vulnerable – with nearly 60 per cent not on track to start school and more than 20 per cent vulnerable in multiple domains.
Dr Zimmet said these figures highlight the urgent need for targeted investment and coordinated action.
He said the RFW looks forward to seeing more detail about the Thriving Kids program and how states and territories will respond.
“The organisation stands ready to work with governments and communities to ensure the program delivers on its promise – and gives every child, regardless of postcode, the chance to thrive.”
A group of youth answered the call to reform as the Cobar Youth Council on Friday to create a Harry Potter-themed snack bar for the Cobar Youth & Community’s mid term Harry Potter movie marathon. The youth council has had trouble reforming this past year and so they will now trial the youth council as a flexible, spontaneous group. Any youth aged 12-24 years, who have ideas they want to bring to life, can come together as a group and run activities. They can also put their hands up to help with whatever is being planned at the centre, or talk to staff about their ideas for activities. Contributed
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Camel, coach and commentator keen to resurrect rugby
A former Cobar “Camel” and state representative rugby player, now an established commentator and coach in the “rugby union minded” Asian countries, Justin Sampson, is keen to work with the Cobar & District Rugby Union Football Club.
Cobar Rugby Club president Peter Payne met with Sampson last week to formulate a “Plan” to resurrect the club and raise its profile.
Over many years, Justin has developed friendships and relationships within world rugby by way of commentating on, promoting and coaching rugby at the highest of levels.
Justin believes he can and will assist the club by a hands-on approach in its fight for survival and by sticking to the “Plan”.
Justin named Nick McArdle and Tim Horan on STAN sport, Peter Overton on Channel 9, Peter Fitzsimmon of the SMH and Edwina Bartholomew of Channel 7 as his promotional confidantes and threw in, “Phil Waugh owes me a favour”.
Then there are the many senior Australian Rugby Union (ARU) administrative types from whom he can seek wise counsel.
Justin attended Shore School and played his first ever First Grade game for the Camels at age 15.
Justin says he is a legitimate “Old Boy”, playing for Cobar on three or four school holidays and still calls Cobar home, his mother Sue Cox is a resident.
Justin agrees that the club should continue to focus on women’s rugby and the Bactrians for the remainder of 2025; Nyngan hosts a women’s Gala Day next month, Cobar will do likewise next month and a third Gala Day, probably at Walgett, is to be scheduled on a still undecided September/October.
These games can “springboard” both the Camels and Bactrians into competition in 2026.
The club refers to the current Women’s Rugby Union World Cup and the success of the Australian Wallaroos to starkly evidence the elevation of the status of women’s tackle rugby worldwide.
In addition, the current success of the Wallabies in 2025 against the British and Irish Lions and South Africa showcases not only the reawakening but inherent popularity of the Rugby code.
Justin notes Cobar Rugby’s Ailsa Fitzsimmons Memorial Oval and clubhouse is the
most western rugby complex in NSW, is one of the oldest, is situated in the Outback, and rugby is played under the men’s and women banners of the Camels and the Bactrians respectively; that is a brand in itself.
Justin will source a quality player coach and several key players to ensure playing rugby in Cobar is more attractive and competitive but, interestingly, he has not ruled out making himself available for the coaching job, depending on his personal circumstances towards the end of the year.
After all, he coached a previously uncompetitive Young to a Premiership at his last gig in 2024.
As with most sporting clubs, fundraising will always remain a constant.
The consistent manning of the Return and Earn recycling facility for the benefit of both the town and the Club by a dedicated few, who are not necessarily associated in any way with the club, has ensured the club has been able to pay its bills.
With the privilege of the Club owning its own facilities comes the downside of rates, water, electricity, insurance and repairs and maintenance.
Fortunately, limited relief for rates and water granted by Cobar Shire Council will come into play for the next three years.
Then there are player costs which start with affiliation fees to the Zone.
A worrying issue with the Club to promote women’s tackle is the archaic state of the change rooms.
Substantial funds have now been pledged to and committed by the club to completely refurbish and bring the change rooms up to an acceptable standard for the women (and men).
That work is scheduled to soon commence, and, at the same time, an appreciative and detailed public acknowledgement will be made to the Club’s generous benefactor.
But first step will be a Committee Meeting.
(See advertisement on Page 20.)
All interested in committing to any involvement with the Club, be it administrative or with football in hand or both, are very welcome to attend.
Rugby does not have to be a chore; it should be a ton of fun.
The 35 British and Irish Lions and the 50,000 Lions’ supporters who accompanied them certainly thought so except for the Third Test match!! contributed
Justin Sampson and Peter Payne met at the Empire Hotel last week to discuss a “Plan” to resurrect rugby in Cobar. Contributed
No changes at AGM
The Cobar Yabbies held their annual general meeting recently with all of the executive returned to their positions.
John Carswell was re-elected unopposed as president with Bill Fugar and Scott Toomey returned as vice presidents.
Bob Clark was reinstated as the club’s secretary and Harley Toomey remains as treasurer.
Murray Harand was uncontested for the club captain’s role and Paul Swainston was returned as vice captain and handicapper.
The club will be hosting two carnivals this season, the Setts Memorial Cup in December and Western Districts in February.
The Yabbies will also be competing at the annual Four Way Swim at Gosford (celebrating 50 years) in November and the season will culminate with Nationals at Nelson Bay in March.
Cobar juniors shine at Nyngan Gala Day
The Cobar Junior Soccer Club took five teams to contest the Nyngan Gala Soccer Day on Saturday in Nyngan.
Cobar fielded two Minis teams, two Mids teams and a Seniors team (12 to 16 years) and competed against teams from Nyngan, Warren, Tottenham, and Bourke.
The Cobar Minis Team 1 won two of their three games, beating Tottenham 4-1 and Warren 3-2. They lost their other game to another Warren team 3-0.
Cobar’s Minis Team 1 goal scorers were Jack Joss (4), Baxter Woods (2) and Jesse Roulston (1).
The Cobar Minis Team 2 played four matches and finished the day with a win, a draw and two losses.
They had a 3-1 win over Nyngan, a 2-all draw with Tottenham, a 1-0 loss to Nyngan and went down to Warren 3-2 in their game.
Cobar Minis Team 2 goal scorers were Charlie Mackay (2) Ali Taylor (2), Baxter Woods (2) and Kaiden Hamilton (1).
A combined Cobar Minis 1 and 2 team beat Bourke 2-nil in their final game with Jack Joss and Kaiden Hamilton their goal scorers.
The Cobar Mids Team 1 won two of their four matches beating Bourke 4-nil and Tottenham 3-nil.
They narrowly lost to Nyngan (2-1) and also had a 2-1 loss in their match against Warren.
Their goal scorers were: Xavier Foster (5), Hayden Betcke (2), Logan Cooper-Knott (1), and Davey Mackah (1).
The Cobar Mids Team 2 won two of their
three matches beating Tottenham 4-nil and Nyngan 3-1 and then drew 1-all with Warren.
Edwin Palma (3), Callum Bennett (3), Kade Taylor (1) and Tyson Cooper-Knott (1) were Cobar’s goal scorers.
The Senior team dominated the competition finishing with a big 9-3 win over Tottenham and also comprehensively won their match against Warren, 8-4.
Cobar’s Seniors goal kickers were: Mark McBride (6), Parker Cryer (3), Caleb Theakston (3), Ralph Behsman (1), Mark Hibbert (1) Joseph Theakston (1), Ashley Compton (1) and Ryan Jiang (1) .
Sharp shooting at pistol club
Two 25m Rapid Fire matches were closely contested at the Cobar Amateur Pistol Club on Sunday under the watchful eye of Range Officer Robert Neate.
Adam Green delivered a standout performance, scoring top results in both matches.
In the first match, Green shot 473 off pistol and, combined with his handicap of 117, he finished with a total score 590.
In his second match, Green shot 466 off pistol and, with his handicap of 117, he finished with a total score of 583.
Other scores recorded on the day were: Michael Garbutt 494-78-572; Geoff Clayton 366181-547; Brad Harrison 313-234-547; John Woloczij 372-168-540; Todd Manns 439-81520 and Tony Punzet 157-225- 382.
A 25m Service Pistol event will be held this Sunday.
Minors dominate
RSL Minors dominated RSL with a commanding 7-2 victory in the local darts competition last Wednesday night.
In other games, Golfie Dartaholics edged out the Western Grumblebums in a 5-4 win, and Golfie Ones & Fives matched that score as they overcame Golfie Gophers.
Golfie Spearchuckers claimed their points via a forfeit from RSL Dingoes.
For Golfie Gophers, Chris Hooker hit a trio of centuries, while Leslie Hooker nailed a 121.
Golfie Ones & Fives were well represented, with Daniel Duell recording two 100s, Jaci Duell cracked a 124, (earning her the highest score for the week for the ladies) and Brendhan Freeman landed 121 and 132 throws.
RSL Minors’ Tony Brown notched up a 125 while Shaun Doherty added a pair of 100s and Macee Brown recorded a 100.
RSL’s Kyle Roberts lit up the scoreboard with three 100s, while brother Tyler Roberts recorded a solid 120.
Western Grumblebums were led by Craig Jones, who recorded the biggest score for the men with 140, alongside 100 and two 121s.
Dave Gardiner chipped in with 100 and 121, while John-Wayne Josephson threw a 100 and John Claus recorded 113.
For the Golfie Dartaholics, Jason Arnold recorded 125 and 100, Jason Collier and Jon Strongman each added 100, while Andrew Verevis landed 116.
Craig Jones was responsible for the men’s highest peg out of the week with 60 while Macee Brown’s 50 was best for the ladies.
In tonight’s games, Golfie Dartaholics take on RSL Minors, Empire Barflies are up against RSL Dingoes, Golfie Gophers play Golfie Spearchuckers, RSL meet Western Grumblebums and Golfie Ones & Fives have the bye.
It was a great day for bowls
It was a great, sunny day to be on the Golfie Greens on Saturday for the 14 participants of the social bowls tournament.
The outright winners on +13 were David Schofield and Allan Gardoll over John Daly and newbie bowler, Bel Walkley.
The six point win and five point win midway through the game signaled it was ‘signed sealed delivered’ for team Schofield!
It was noted by The Second that much praise was given to Bel by her Skip as she forced her opposition Lead to change his hand! (Most bowlers favour back or forehand and to force your opponent to change means you’ve ‘put a spoke in the works’ so to speak.)
Another warm, sunny winter day on Sunday on the magnificently prepared Greens by greenkeeper Stewart Simpson enticed 22 bowlers to give it their all.
But did they? According to Dean ‘Bogger’ McLeod and his cohort Darryl ‘Dasha’ Jermyn they were severely hampered by a shoulder and knee injury!
Their attempts to justify their thoroughly sound flogging on the greens was unequivocally denied!
Master of bowls, Peter ‘Skeet’ Goonrey and David Kershaw won the day by a very very, convincing +31!
The runners-up were David ‘Ooze’ Knight and Jim Goonrey with a +19 win, which was a pretty good result considering who they were playing against, the resident bowls burglar, Doug Hudson and Tony Polack!
There were so many candidates for the George The Giraffe wrong bias award on both on Saturday and Sunday.
Only because The Second was nominated by a possibly disgruntled expert/supposedly injured experts does your roving bowls reporter record he/she was indeed in the fray! However - it is noted that not only did Craig ‘Duck’ Grimmond (seasoned bowler) deliver a massive wrong bias, David ‘Ooze’ Knight doubled up on the bias to take the award. The Second
End of the Rugby League season
The Christie & Hood Castlereagh Rugby League competition heads to the grand finals this weekend without any Cobar teams in the mix this year.
In games to be played at Bowen Oval in Coolah, on Saturday, the Coolah Kangaroos will be looking for back-to-back First Grade premiership flags when they take on the Coonabarabran Unicorns, the Dunedoo Swanettes meet the Coolah Flyers in the Ladies League Tag grand final and the Baradine Magpies and Binnaway Bombshells will face off in the Reserve Grade decider.
It’s the first time in seven years the Cobar Roosters Rugby League Club has failed to field a team in a grand final game, with Cobar’s Under 18s teams previously claiming premierships in 2019, 2020 and 2024, while their First Grade side won the 2022 grand final and were runners-up in 2023 and 2024 (and declared winners in 2021 when COVID cut short the season).
Cobar will however be represented on the field on Saturday with local Castlereagh umpire, Patrick Hallcroft, among the line-up of grand final game officials.
Little superstars
A group of 18 Mini Cobar Roosters players (Under 6s and Under 8s) recently travelled to Narromine for a Minis Rugby League carnival. Coaches, Amie Hill (Under 6s) and Kai Taylor (Under 8s) said they were pleased and proud of their little superstars’ performance at the carnival. Photo contributed
Three generation team wins Pink Day golf event
The rain last Wednesday may have caused the cancellation of the scheduled midweek Ladies Golf Par game but the sun shone all weekend making up for it.
The annual Pink Day three lady Stableford tournament was played on Sunday, raising funds for breast cancer awareness.
Three generations of the one family, Sally Bannister, Karen Warren and Stevi Bishop, were crowned the winners after having a team score of 40 points.
This was a special win for these women after losing family members to this disease.
The best individual score on the day went to Janet Place with an amazing 40 points (scored on a nine handicap).
Michelle Deppeler again broke her handicap and finished in second spot with 39 points.
After a four-way countback, Narelle Green secured third place and Fay Hardwick claimed 4th place, after four players finished with 36 points.
The A Grade Nearest the Pin (NTP) winner on the 3rd hole was Jannine Wilkin, B Grade was won by Marlene Wynd and Stevi Bishop claimed her second NTP for the weekend in C Grade.
The ‘Chefs’, Glenda Peebles, Fran Samios and Susan Goonrey won the best dressed team and the gratitude of all players after presenting a delicious smorgasbord of food after the game.
Saturday’s annual Bannister’s Day Stableford event had 20 lady golfers taking part. (See report on Page 22 for details.)
A slight chance of rain this week might have affected the midweek Par round but the weather should be clear for Saturday’s and Sunday’s Stableford rounds.
The Narromine ladies will be hosting their Open on Sunday. T’d Off
The three generations team of Sally Bannister, Karen Warren and Stevi Bishop finished as winners of the Ladies Golf Pink Day on Sunday. Photo contributed
Funding for a local sporting group
A Cobar sporting group is among 21 notfor-profit organisations in the Parkes electorate set to benefit from the 2024-2025 Volunteer Grants Round.
The Cobar Athletics & Triathlon Squad (CATS) club will receive $1,000 from this round to help offset their insurance costs.
Federal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey said volunteers played a vital role in regional Australia, providing a huge range of services and facilities.
“Without volunteers, our communities would not enjoy the lifestyle and sporting choices they do now,” Mr Chaffey said.
“I’m very pleased to announce that a total of about $60,000 will be awarded to 21 organisations within the Parkes electorate through the 2024-5 Volunteer Grants Round.”
Mr Chaffey said the funds will help a diverse range of groups including VRA Rescue NSW, the Australian Breastfeeding Association, Country Women’s Association, Landcare Broken Hill, Gunnedah Meals on Wheels and the Garah Boomi Pony Club.
15 years ago …
• The 35th Golden Clay Target Shoot attracted a field of 155 shooters.
• The Bourke Rams spoilt the Cobar Camels’ aspirations of a 2020 Western Plains Rugby Union First Grade premiership beating them 48-8 in the elimination semi final.
• Doug McManus won the Cobar Rifle Club shoot from 600 yards by one point.
Best Dressed chefs
Michael and Sally win men’s and ladies Bannister Day event
The Annual Bannister golf day, sponsored by the Bannister family, was held on Saturday with a good field of 21 in the men’s division.
It seems if you want to win a golf tournament these days, you just need to sponsor one!
For the second week running, the sponsor of a golf event has won it.
The winner on Saturday was Michael Bannister with a good all-around score of 38 points, his best score of the year.
(Michael copped a bit of a ribbing from other golfers after he walked away with all the winnings and, embarrassed by winning his own sponsored event, Michael left the club early, citing an important bus run he had to do.)
Second place went to Geoff Rorke with a good, solid score of 37 points.
There were a number of players on 35
points: Peter ‘Ding’ Lawrence won third place on a countback from Ben Tranter, Brian Russ and Mark Quinn.
The Nearest the Pin winner was Scott Mayne.
The Ladies Bannister Day field had 20 golfers taking part with Sally Bannister finishing with 38 points for the win.
Julie Livingston was a close second posting 37 points followed by Fay Hardwick (35), Janet Place (34) and Robynne Morton on 33.
The Nearest the Pin winners on the 11th hole were Place for A Grade, Morton in B Grade and new comer to golf, Stevie Bishop (who was back in Cobar for the weekend), was closest for C Grade.
The Bannister family have continued to sponsor this annual event, with Saturday being the 67th year contributed
Egan wins against all the odds
There was only a small field of nine players for the men’s golf Par event on Sunday.
It’s not an event which helps the lowerhandicapped players, but that didn’t worry the club’s lowest handicapped player, Jay Egan, who, despite his zero handicap, won the day with a score of plus three.
Travis Buckman came second with a score of plus one.
Bian Smith was third with a square score.
Nearest the Pin prizes were won by Egan on
the 8th hole and Chris Powell on the 15th.
There was no mid-week golf played last week.
Five Cobar golfers travelled to Gilgandra for their Open Tournament on Sunday and played without bringing home any silverware.
This week’s scheduled events include an Individual Stroke event on Saturday and an Individual Stableford is set down for Sunday.
The Trangie Open is also on Sunday. Out of Bounds
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Husband and wife, Michael and Sally Bannister, won the Men’s and Ladies’ Bannister Day golf competitions on Saturday. Photo contributed
Cobar Netball Association held their end of season celebrations at the Cobar Bowling & Golf Club on Saturday night. Pictured are the 2025 award winners. The Players’ Player honours went to Anita Atuau (Pink Galahs), Ethan McLeod (Divas), Emma Harley (Smash Ups) and Kahlie Obray (ATC Angels). Niamh Urquhart was named Best & Fairest, Heidi Mainey earned the Sportsmanship award and Elodie Manns collected the 2025 Larnie Keen Club Person of the Year award. Absent from the photo were Copper City Crushers’ Players’ Player Kym Sutton and Amie Hill, who shared the Sportsmanship award this season. Photo contributed
NSW
