Dubbo Photo News 16.03.2023

BIRTHDAY HAPPY

YVETTE AUBUSSON-FOLEY

IT’S fitting the Titan Macquarie Mud Run committee should mark the 10th birthday celebration of the event they so passionately put on each year, with a mud cake and smiles.

It’s been an incredible decade of volunteering for all those involved, which has equated into $1 million dollars’ worth of community projects, created and given to Dubbo residents to enjoy for free.

“Without our volunteers and business sponsors and partners, many of whom have

been with us since the day dot, we wouldn’t have got here without them,” committee member Rod Fardell told Dubbo Photo News

If you want to do something epic in 2023, that gives back to the community, and boosts your health and wellbeing, then jump on to the Titan Macquarie Mud Run website to register.

Titan Macquarie Mud Run is an all-abilities and age event. You can walk the course and go around obstacles if you want, just... don’t wear white.

Catch all the action on Saturday, March 18, from 8am to 4pm, Regand Park, Dubbo.

Titan Macquarie Mud Run committee members celebrate their big 10th birthday: left to right, Stacey Stinson, Kirk Darby, Mark Thompson, Rod Fardell, Lynnie Thompson, Kate Astill, Anna Darby. PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS

Fire season is back

Recent fire showed the dangers ahead

By DAVID DIXON

JUST a few months on from the flooding rains that devastated so much of our region, the threat of bushfire has returned with high fuel loads and tinder dry undergrowth.

Kevin Parker is one of the local volunteers who selflessly offer their communities the protection of a local fire service, and who recently took part in controlling a blaze that threatened district homes and property.

The call for the most-recent fire first came in at 10am on Monday, March 6, with a sighting of smoke at the back of the “Cranbrook” property that appeared to be the result of lightning strikes the night before.

The Monday featured changing and challenging conditions, extreme heat with numerous wind changes that had to be taken into consideration.

The local Cumboogle bri-

gade was first on the scene, with planning by area command seeing dozers and graders called in to create containment lines.

The fire then came out of the scrub at about 2.30pm and then developed into a grass fire, with the wind pushing the blaze along at a pace the brigades couldn’t keep up with – that then required two plane-loads of fire retardant to be dropped on the blaze.

Assistance from other local brigades that day included support from the Orana Team, with hats off to the small team of support staff who made 300 sandwiches just on the Monday.

The first day saw 12 hours of fire-fighting for the crews before relief teams took over. The fire was declared to be “under control” by late Monday night with a watch alert kept in place all evening.

While there was no loss of structures such as homes and sheds, large areas of

fencing was burnt out in the blaze that destroyed 1340ha of one property.

Brigades came from as far away as at Parkes and Bogan Gate, plus a Strike Team from the Hills District with five trucks also coming to assist.

“The assistance of locals was appreciated and, speaking of locals, it was amazing how in times of need, we all pull together in any way they can,” one firefighter said.

“The one thing I noticed was the way all brigades

pulled together. From this you form friendships, and always have respect for each other,” he added.

All local brigades are in need of additional members, with membership open to anyone. There’s no cost to join, and although training

is compulsory, it is generally only once a month with full uniform and equipment provided.

Local contacts include Christian on 0428 783 923, Mark on 0411 985 308, and the Orana Team Office on 6881 3900.

Vehicles were dwarfed by the pall of smoke generated by the Cranbrook bushfire last Monday.

PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/STEVE COWLEY

AH, TO BE IRISH!

Where were you born? Dublin, Ireland

How long have you lived in Australia? Ten years in Dubbo.

What do you miss most about Ireland? Obviously, I miss my family and friends back home. I also miss the weather at times, crazily enough, especially during a warm Australian summer. I miss the Irish pubs and beers, especially a nice red ale called Smithwicks. I miss Gaelic Football and Hurling and the whole scene around going to the games and then back to the pub to talk about the game.

What do you love most about Australia? I love being able to do something outdoors all year round. I like the weather as long as it doesn’t get too hot. I really like an Australian winter. Not as cold as back home. The attitude in Australia is very similar to the laidback Irish way of life, especially in the country. The Aussie wildlife is a bit different, I have to say.

Do you have any of your Irish family living in Australia? All my Irish family are still living in Ireland. What made you decide to move to Australia? My partner Sara is originally from Australia. We came over for a couple of holidays and I really liked the weather (September time) and the Aussie culture is very similar to the Irish culture in some ways. We decided to move across in 2012 and I got a job straight away which I still have. We have two children who are well settled in school. We have developed strong friendships and are part of the local soccer scene with Newtown Soccer Club.

Do you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day every year? Back home it is celebrated big time every year. It’s a national holiday so everything important is cancelled within reason. There is normally a parade through the town, and then as always you head for a few pints at the pub. It’s normally a big day. I don’t celebrate it every year since I moved to Australia, to be honest. Normally I work if it’s midweek and maybe that evening I will have a few drinks. If it’s a weekend, we may have some friends over for a small party.

OWEN SMITH

& AQ

WITH THE WOLFE BROTHERS

How long have you been in the entertainment industry?

TOM WOLFE: We've been very lucky to call this our full-time job for the last ten years. We were brought up is a very musical household. We were doing gigs and pubs when we were teenagers.

NICK WOLFE: Tom's been a natural attention seeker since he left the womb, he's always been an entertainer.

TOM: Honestly, all our life. It's been the best.

NICK: But according to our tax returns, probably about 12 years.

What made you decide to perform in Dubbo at the Stock Route Festival?

TOM: Wonderful community, wonderful location, I love the passion of the people that own this place and everything that they're really trying to build here. For us it's a real treat to come to places like Dubbo where there's not normally

music all the time, so it's really special to be here.

Who's your lead singer?

NICK: That would be me, Nick Wolfe. You've come a long way since Australia's Got Talent. Tell us more about your journey to date.

NICK: It's been a hell of a journey. We're about to drop our sixth album next month – on April 13 – called "Livin' The Dream", which we are very excited about and it's been a wonderful journey. Australia's Got Talent really kick-started things off. From that, we've been on the road, travelling this country, making music and, excuse the pun, we've been living the dream, so it's been wonderful.

What's your favourite Wolfe Brothers song and why?

NICK: Currently some of the new ones, on the new album. We just released one called "Here's To The Ones" which we are

really excited about. But I think there is some stuff on the new album that I'm really excited for people to hear.

TOM: It's always nice to play the new stuff. We're really loving playing "Here's To The Ones" live, and it's nice to be connecting with people out there. Do you take requests? If so, what has been your strangest request?

NICK: The strangest one, and this is the long time ago, was when someone came up and requested "Running Bear", and I was like, "No, obviously not, that's not our thing."

TOM: We also once played at a very formal 70th birthday in a dining room at a large farm, and the request was that the gentleman who had the birthday sing "Danny Boy" with us accompanying him. So we played "Danny Boy" around this original homestead table at this farm, while people had cigars and brandy. It was very different to our normal scene.

How long was your song "Livin' The Dream" at number one on the country music charts?

NICK: I think, amazingly, it did six weeks, which is incredible. "Livin' The Dream" and the new album's definitely a step back to our country rock roots, and it's really nice to see it connecting. That's awesome for us.

What are five positives you experienced while visiting Dubbo.

TOM: Beautiful sunshine, there's no shortage of temperature – it's hot, really hot. But we appreciate a bit of heat. I had a good coffee this morning, and that doesn't always happen everywhere you go.

NICK: Honestly the people here are wonderful, we love any opportunity to come to communities, smaller regional towns like this – you really get a good sense of what the people are about and that they are good people.

Nick and Tom Wolfe.

PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/KEN SMITH

Dubbo Celtic Dancers

Dancing up a storm for

St Pat’s Day

Interview & photo by JENET STEWART

How long have the Dubbo Celtic Dancers been operating in Dubbo?

The group was established in 2021 after principal teacher, Karen Armstrong, moved back to Dubbo and saw an opportunity to open a new school of Celtic dance, specialising in Irish and Scottish dance.

How many members are there associated with Celtic dancing in Dubbo?

Currently we have 37 dancers with an age range of 4 to 65. We are fully inclusive and one big dance family.

Where did Celtic dancing originate?

Origins is a big one. There are seven Celtic nations in the world, all originating from western Europe. Dance is a dominant part of all ancient cultures and continues today. Celtic dance in all its forms has spread worldwide. We specialise in Irish, Scottish and Spanish dance.

Will the Celtic dancers be celebrating St. Patrick's Day this year?

On St Patrick’s Day (March 17) we will be publicly performing at the Church Street Rotunda on Macquarie Street from 10am to 12noon.

During the afternoon we have private shows at Southlakes Early Learning Centre and Kintyre Retirement Village. We finish the day at the Old Bank from 7pm.

Where do the Celtic dancers perform and when?

Weekly classes during school terms are run Monday to Thursday from 4pm to 7pm at the Western Plains Cultural Centre. We are so blessed to have this wonderful dance facility available to us.

What's is Dubbo Celtic Dancer's favourite dance to perform?

"The Irish Reel”

STOCK LIQUIDATION

Dubbo Celtic Dancers.

PHOTO: DUBBO

PHOTO NEWS

FICOI

the Livin’ Dream The Stock Route Music Festival

What a line-up!

The Wolfe Brothers, Brooke McClymont & Adam Eckersley, Amber Lawrence, Hayley Jensen, Blake O'Connor, Matt Cornell, Andy Penkow, Chad Hewett and Peter Chapman.

The Stock Route Country Music Festival served it up again and again showcasing Lazy River Estate as the perfect outdoor music venue.

Plenty of highlights, to put it simply, it was good fun.

Well done to the Lazy River team, the sponsors and the many locals and visitors who love their music live.

SUNSET STROLLS TO THE RIVER, TOGETHER.

Walk around our estate, and you’ll meet people who value the things you do; community, comfort and connection.

We’re ready to welcome you to a lifestyle designed by you. Your choice

DUBBO’S MOST DESIRABLE BLEND OF LUXURIOUS RURAL LIVING & CITY CONVENIENCE

Adam Eckersley & Brooke McClymont

Brooke McClymont

Hayley Jensen

Susanne and Robyn

Amber Lawrence Michael and Juanita Freestone

Geoff and Vicki Chapman and Tabitha Williams and Shay McCusker

Photos by Ken Smith

Adam Eckersley

Amber Lawrence performs in the crowd.

Blake O’Connor

Blake O’Connor

Back, Michelle Green, Jo Holland and Greg Moody, Front, Don Easter and Steve and Kate Thurston

A RURAL MEDICAL EXPERIENCE

Amy Malligan has recently started her journey to becoming a doctor, studying the University of Sydney’s Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree at the School of Rural Health in Dubbo. Amy will complete the entire four-year postgraduate degree in Dubbo with clinical training centered on the newly redeveloped Dubbo Hospital.

Amy studied an undergraduate degree in science in Sydney, unsure of what she wanted to do when she finished school.

After living in Sydney for her degree she moved back to Bathurst for her final year due to COVID-19 restrictions. It was a friend’s medical emergency and spending time in the hospital that inspired Amy to pursue a career in medicine.

After graduating from her

undergraduate degree, she began working in Bathurst Hospital as a Patient Experience Officer while applying to study medicine at rural clinical schools, though her heart was set on getting into the University of Sydney program in Dubbo.

“My brother had a great experience studying medicine at a rural clinical school and training in a rural hospital, so I knew that I wanted that experience too. When I found out I could study the entire Doctor of Medicine in Dubbo, I knew that was where I wanted to be. I love living in the country and I love that I’m still so close to my family in Bathurst,” she says.

Amy is part of the second cohort of students now studying the University of Sydney’s entire fouryear Doctor of Medicine

program in Dubbo.

Students in the Dubbo Stream study the same world-class medical education as their peers in Sydney, with the added benefits of living and studying in a regional location while gaining hands-on experience in rural and remote medical practice.

The Dubbo Stream is only available to students eligible for a Commonwealth Supported Place and pathways are available for First Nations students and those with rural backgrounds.

The School of Rural Health in Dubbo features state-of-the-art medical education facilities including team-based learning studios, anatomy teaching lab, six-suite simulation training centre, tutorial rooms and lecture theatre.

For more information on studying medicine in Dubbo visit sydney.edu.au/ medicine-health/ dubbo

Amy Malligan.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Tomingley mine extension to provide more opportunities for the local community

By EMILY MIDDLETON

THE Tomingley Gold Extension Project has been approved by the NSW minister for planning, allowing for open cut and underground mining at the Roswell and San Antonio deposits, processing of ore at 1.75Mtpa, a relocation of the Newell Highway, and an extension of mine life to 2032. While that may seem like a lot to take in, the project is unlikely to directly impact residents of Tomingley.

“They may be aware of the construction of the new section of the Newell Highway over the nine months it will approximately take to complete. This is necessary because the ore deposits lie directly beneath the current Newell Highway,” said Jason Hughes, general manager at Tomingley Gold Operations (an Alkane Resources subsidiary).

The new section of the highway will be constructed on private land, with little disruption to road users until the final stages, when the new section will be linked with the existing highway. The length of the new section will be 8.3 kilometres, and will meet the latest Austroads freight design guidelines and safe-

ty standards – including advanced flood management.

Developing the San Antonio and Roswell resources will extend the life of the Tomingley operations until at least end-2031.

“This will benefit the wider community (across Narromine shire, Parkes shire and Dubbo local government areas) in terms of continuation of employment, workforce and supplier expenditure, and community investment,”

the Mr Hughes said.

“The economic impact assessment estimated that 50 per cent of operating costs over the life of the project are expected to be spent within the central west and 80 per cent within NSW.”

Since the project will grow the company’s overall workforce, it is anticipated that new employees and contractors will move to the region with their families.

“We will also extend and grow our business relationships with many local suppliers. This is likely to create growth in several surrounding towns, including Dubbo, Narromine and Parkes,” Mr Hughes said.

So far, a number of public properties around Tomingley have already benefited from a facelift and

other enhancements, courtesy of the Alkane Resources community funding program. In particular, the Tomingley Hall, the Tomingley Sports and Recreation Ground, and various gardens around town.

“Narromine has benefitted in a similar fashion, with many local businesses and organisations receiving funding for events, infrastructure and projects,” Mr Hughes said.

“With the extension of our operation, the funding program will increase, with more local organisations benefitting for the ultimate good of the whole community.”

But what will happen after the mine wraps up?

Towards the end of the operation, Alkane Resources have said that they will consult extensively with the community and specialists to determine the best possible land use options for the mine site long-term.

“We will aim to provide lasting economic, environmental and social benefit for Tomingley, Nar-

romine Shire and the Central West.

“Once mining is finished, the entire mine site will be rehabilitated and returned to a safe, stable and productive ecosystem. We intend to leave regions of enhanced biodiversity, featuring wildlife habitats supported by the natural regeneration of trees and shrubs.”

The company has also committed to improving the overall productivity of the agricultural land that will not be disturbed by the project, approximately 1450 hectares.

“This will offset the agricultural land that will be impacted by the mining activities.”

Alkane continues to seek additional gold resources to sustain the operations at Tomingley, particularly along the gold corridor between Tomingley and Peak Hill, with the goal of extending the mine life even further.

“That is to say, the precise enddate of the operation is never certain!”

Approximately 120 additional positions will be created with this

extension, according to Alkane. As Tomingley Gold Mine is a “residential” operation, all employees return to their own homes at the end of each shift.

“This means the overwhelming majority of our workforce lives locally – from Parkes to Narromine to Dubbo. We nurture local talent by participating in educational and career pathway events wherever possible.

“We encourage any locals, even those without experience, to apply for vacant roles – and to keep applying if initially unsuccessful. There is plenty of opportunity to get a start in the mining industry if you have a great team work ethic and can-do attitude. Many of our existing employees had never worked in the industry before they started at Tomingley Gold Mine.

Our workforce has a range of different qualifications and skills – including applied sciences, engineering, operational, technicians, trades, administration and logistics.”

PHOTO: SUPPLIED.

WHAT KIDS SAY

A feast of senses for this year’s CanAssist autumn gardens extravaganza

By JENET STEWART

THE much-anticipated annual Dubbo Autumn Open Gardens fundraiser presented by CanAssist Dubbo promises, this year, to be a feast for the senses.

Harlen Chapman

How old are you? Nearly 5 years old.

What’s the latest you’ve ever stayed up? Really late watching a movie.

What’s your favourite animal? A penguin.

How do you get wool off a sheep? Use a haircut thing.

Can cows jump over the moon? Yes, nearly.

Who’s the most famous person you know? Carter.

Would you prefer to be a mermaid or a pirate? A pirate.

What’s the naughtiest thing you’ve ever done? Not listening to my teachers.

Who do you love the most? Rory.

Eight Dubbo gardening families have generously offered to share their gardens with fellow garden lovers. Ticket sales and other fundraising on the day will go towards CanAssist’s work locally.

CanAssist provides financial assistance, practical support and raises awareness of the inequities between rural and metropolitan areas. The Dubbo volunteer network ensures that country people are given the same opportunities and treatment choices as those who live in city centres.

This year’s eight gardens are located in west, north and south Dubbo. The exact location of the gardens will be disclosed at a later date.

The CanAssist Dubbo Autumn Open Gardens event will provide viewing of all gardens participating, plants, speakers, Tubba-gah

Wiradjuri dancers, and many stalls for all to enjoy. The famous CanAssist plant stall will provide an opportunity to purchase those hard-to-find special plants that are very suitable for the Dubbo climate.

Other activities scheduled for the event include a bonsai demonstration and workshop, as well as information on Dubbo’s Walan Community Garden, Ko-

MACQUARIE 2023 FINAL MLP FIELD DAY & DINNER

rean natural farming, and how to improve your gardening practices. Information will also be provided about the Western Cancer Centre based in Dubbo.

Guest speaker will be Jonathan Garner who is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Horticulture, and a Horticultural Consultant at the famous Mayfield Garden near Oberon.

Food and refreshments along

with raffles will be available at the event. Attending and supporting the Dubbo Autumn Open Gardens provides an opportunity to support neighbours, family and friends at a time in need.

Tickets are $25 per person and available at the event or through 123 Tix.

Mark your calendar for this special event: Sunday, May 7, from 9.30am to 4pm.

Wednesday 29th March, 12:00pm - 4:30pm

Dinner: 6pm onwards - RSL Club Narromine, NSW

Field Day registration and pre-booked dinner tickets essential via https://MacqFieldDay2023.eventbrite.com.au

Field Day: Trangie Ag. Research Centre, 7878 Mitchell H’way Trangie NSW

The CanAssist Dubbo fundraisers: Andie Walker, Susie Hill, David Walker, Melva Blake, Prue Thompson, Janet Couchman, Betty Lorimer, Fitz McKay, Mike Blake and Fran Ellis. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

How Best to Navigate a Complex Divorce

We all enter marriage with high hopes of happiness, so choosing to end a relationship, or having to deal with the breakdown of one, is never an ideal outcome.

“Although some families manage to separate somewhat amicably, it can betional process for others” says Julie Vass, principal of Orana Family Law, whose chambers recently opened on Macquarie Street.

Child custody and the division of assets are a common consequence of divorce, and usually cause the most distress for families.

“Finding agreement on these key issues is ideally achieved through me-

diation and negotiation. However, this is not always possible for everyone unfortunately” says Julie.

Ongoing lack of agreement on sensitive issues often exacerbates the pain of separation, prolongs the process, and worsens the outcome for all parties involved. So it’s is a good decision to choose easily navigate the law and solutions, and help keep relations cordial and intact.

Orana Family Law brings a depth of talent and a wealth of experience to help solve the more challenging aspects of tailored solutions to meet desired outcomes, they

operation model from initial consultation through to settlement.

Clear advice, delivered with empathy and understanding, Orana Family Law advocates on your behalf, provides a coherent path forward, and gets you results with the least stress possible, so you can move on and start enjoying your life again.

Orana Family Law are

initial consultations and introductory rates to new clients. Call 0422 775 548 or visit their website: www.oranafamilylaw.com.

au to schedule an appointment. Orana Family Law chambers are located at 262 Macquarie Street, Dubbo.

Because the Dubbo Region is the best place to build your career

DUBBO WORKS is highlighting the excellent career and learning opportunities the Dubbo region offers. DUBBO WORKS is a community-building initiative brought to you by Fletcher International Exports and Dubbo Photo News. To contribute ideas, email dubboworks@dubbophotonews.com.au phone 6885 4433.

Second year uni student Kate Finlayson completed a month of work at Fletchers before returning to Armidale to continue her agribusiness studies.

FOCUS ON FLETCHERS

Great experience at Fletchers in uni holiday job

By YVETTE AUBUSSON-FOLEY

KATE Finlayson is a second-year agribusiness student studying at the University of New England, Armidale.

Before the start of uni term this year, Kate spent a month working in the administration office at Fletcher International Exports, Dubbo.

“I really wanted to get a taste of the admin side of this business and experience that corporate world. It was handy they could take me on for a month,” Kate told Dubbo Photo News

Majoring at uni in agribusiness marketing and management, her short-term month of paid work gave Kate insights into how a large organisation with a global reach operates behind the scenes.

Position Vacant

Abattoir Labourers - Full Time FLETCHER INTERNATIONAL EXPORTS

Jobs and Tasks

We are looking for people to fill multiple labouring roles (such as packing meat and trimming fat, processing co-products such as wool and hides) and also more experienced roles such as boning, slicing and hide removal).

Wages and Pay:

Wages are processed weekly

You will have opportunities to gain new skills and progress up pay levels in your department as you learn new tasks

Skill Level

We have opportunities for people with all levels of experience (even if you have none at all!)

Benefits of Working with Us:

We provide all training required on the job - we even provide and wash your uniform!

You can find this on our website at http://www.fletchint.com.au/careers/application-form

or grab one from our Gatehouse at Lot 11 Yarrandale Road, Dubbo NSW 2830

For more information contact 02 6801 3100

“I’ve been working with Colleen and Poonam, doing account work, processing data. I’ve learnt so much. It’s been good. I’ve never done an office job; I’ve only done farm work and that practical sort of work.”

Kate heard about the job through her dad who manages Habnarey Station, a property near Lightning Ridge which supplies sheep to Fletchers for export.

“Dad spoke to Roger and the opportunity came up. I’ve loved working here and I’m still doing my degree so don’t know what I want to do after, but this has been a good taste to see what’s out there.”

Though now back at uni hitting the books, she confirmed the team at Fletchers spoke to her to say she could come back

whenever she wants.

“That’s great knowing I’ll be able to work when it suits me around my studies with the chance to save a little bit and get some real-world experience,” Kate said.

“In my experience, they really look after their employees. My colleagues have flexibility in their jobs, and they’ve been so flexible accommodating me in my holidays.”

Before starting university, Kate did a gap year in the Northern Territory working on a cattle station.

“In my year 12 we had a funny year because of Covid, but then I went to the territory, and because we were so isolated we didn’t need to be in lockdowns like everyone back home. It was a great experience too.”

PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS

Young funeral director takes next career step

By LYDIA PEDRANA

AT just 28 years old, Laura Carter the manager and funeral director of Dubbo’s longest-serving funeral home, Shakespeare Funerals.

First established in 1894, Ms Carter’s parents, Paul and Barbara, bought the business in 2003, and between the three of them, they now own and manage five funeral homes in the Central West.

Growing up around the industry since the age of 1, Ms Carter said she always knew she would work in the business when she grew up.

“Being a family business and growing up in the industry, it’s always been a huge part of my life,” she told Dubbo Photo News

“It just seemed natural that that’s what I would do.”

But she didn’t race into it straight after school.

First, Ms Carter completed a Bachelor of Commerce at Newcas-

tle University and worked in a real estate administration role while she studied.

Returning to Dubbo straight after she graduated, she began at Shakespeare Funerals looking after the accounts and admin, as well as assisting at funeral services, before being offered the role as manager in 2018.

She is now taking the next step in her career and studying to become a qualified embalmer.

“To work as an embalmer, you need to be employed and working in the funeral industry and complete a Certificate 4 in Embalming,” she explained.

“There’s a lot of theory that needs to be studied, such as the various systems of the human body, as well as the practical learning.

“Apart from completing the theory and the practical components of the course, it’s important

The number of Dubbo region jobs being advertised this week on seek.com.au

OF THE WEEK

# DUBBO JOBS COUNTER Youth Officer, Department of Communities and Justice

THE Department of Communities and Justice is currently advertising for:

“Youth Officer – Orana”.

They are seeking people with life skills who can communicate well, remain calm under pressure and want to help young offenders make better choices. The roles include positive leadership and supervision while assisting in the care, development and security of young people in custody in NSW.

About Orana Youth Justice Centre

Orana Youth Justice Centre is one of six Youth Justice centres across NSW.

Opened in December 1999, Orana Youth Justice Centre is located in Dubbo and has a capacity of 30 young people. The centre accommodates males, mainly from the Central and Far West areas of NSW,

Baby loss counsellor a finalist in Rural Women’s Award

DUBBO woman Rochelle Olsen works in one of the most important and difficult of fields, providing counselling for mothers who have lost a pregnancy or a baby.

Rochelle Olsen, who provides counselling for mothers who have lost a pregnancy or a baby, was recently nominated as a finalist in the 2023 NSW/ACT AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award.

who are on control orders or remanded in custody. Youth Officers working at Orana provide supervision to young people in custody aged between 10-21 years, who are some of the most vulnerable people in the state. Many of these young people come from traumatic backgrounds and can display unpredictable behaviour.

About the role

Youth Officers supervise and work with young people in Youth Justice Centres across NSW. It is a shift workbased role which includes night shifts and weekend work. Youth Officers are frontline staff and work within the secure residential units of a Youth Justice Centre.

Full details on this role are at www. seek.com.au/job/66107564

JOIN THE MISSION

DUBBO WORKS wants you!

If you have a unique or interesting job, a career opportunity or a fascinating learning option you’d like to share, get in touch with Dubbo Photo News now. To contribute ideas, email dubboworks@ dubbophotonews.com.au or phone 6885 4433 or visit us at Level 1, 178 Macquarie St, Dubbo.

Her pioneering work in this field recently saw her nominated as a finalist in the 2023 NSW/ ACT AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award.

Describing herself as "a pregnancy and baby loss practitioner", Ms Olsen specialises in mentoring mothers who have experienced pregnancy and infant loss by helping them understand and manage their emotional wellbeing. She offers this through a range of mentoring programs including masterclasses, small group mentoring, and one-on-one bespoke mentoring.

"Grief is as unique as our fingerprints, so it is so important to me that your support is individualised," Ms Olsen says on her website.

AgriFutures Managing Director, John Harvey, said he was impressed with the diverse and innovative projects that were submitted this year.

“It’s fantastic to see the 2023 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award state finalists already making such a positive influence in their industries and communities with their initiatives," he said.

“We’re excited to provide these women with a platform to

build on their leadership skills to drive change in rural and regional Australia,” he added.

State Minister for Women, Bronnie Taylor, congratulated Ms Olsen and two other State finalists, saying they all share a passion for amplifying the voices of people in regional NSW, through recording the life stories of loved ones; connecting children to culture, community and country through art; or, in Ms Olsen's case, reducing isolation by supporting mums who have experienced pregnancy and infant loss.

“The finalists’ unique backgrounds, experiences and expertise are the source of great impact and innovation that will lead to the long-term prosperity

of our regional communities,” Mrs Taylor said.

The winner of the NSW-ACT AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award will receive a $15,000 grant to support a project, business or program that will benefit rural industries, businesses and/ or communities. The winner will also go on to compete for the national award in September.

Westpac’s Regional General Manager for NSW, Sam Gaston, said the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award is a testament to the positive influence more women are making in business and in agriculture.

“Women are driving innovation in our regions and Westpac is proud to continue to support the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award, to further raise awareness and publicly recognise the achievements and leadership of women,” Mr Gaston said.

As well as Ms Olsen, the other finalists are Dimity Brassil who provides a professional, personal life story interview service; and Michelle Leonard, director and founder of a regional choir of excellence that encompasses our regional children and youth.

Ms Carter’s favourite part about a career in the funeral industry is that she gets to help people.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

PHOTO: ROCHELLE OLSEN WELLBEING

A Pink Lady at 90 years of age

Dawn Serisier is Dubbo’s tireless community worker

By JENET STEWART

DAWN SERISIER celebrated with fellow Pink Ladies at Dubbo Magnolia Café last week. She turned 90 years of age but that’s not the only accomplishment Dawn has good reason to celebrate. For the past 20 years she has been a regular and enthusiastic Pink Lady at Dubbo Hospital.

The Pink Ladies provide support to patients while in hospital, including washing, providing morning tea to cancer patients, and clothes and toiletries to people admitted to hospital unprepared.

amble and came to Dubbo to study nursing when she was just 18 years of age. She married and had three children, then moved to Sydney where she worked as a practice manager for a doctor’s surgery.

She then moved again to the Hunter Valley and eventually back to Dubbo.

Dawn is actively involved with the Holy Trinity Church, Probus and University of the Third Age (U3A). She loves to travel and has enjoyed several overseas trips.

She has been a willing and generous contributor to

Mar 16: Michael Cobb, former Member for Parkes, 78. Erik Estrada , US actor, 74. Lauren Graham, US actress, 56. Nicole Trunfio, Aussie model, 37.

Mar 17: John Sebastian, US singer, 79. Little Pattie, singer, 74. Patrick Duff y, US actor, 74. Kurt Russell , US actor, 72. Lesley-Anne Down, British actress, 69. Gary Sinise, US actor, 68. Rob Sitch, TV comedian, 61. Rob Lowe, US actor, 59. Caroline Corr, Irish musician, 50. Aaron Baddeley, golfer, 42.

Mar 18: Michael Kirby, former High Court Justice, 84. Di Morrissey, author/newspaper operator, 80. Dick Smith businessman/aviator, 79. Larry Perkins, race car driver, 73. Shane Jacobson, actor/comedian, 53. Brooke Hanson, swimmer, 45. Kyle Noke, boxer from Dubbo, 43. Lily Collins, British actress, 34. Sam Williams, NRL player, 32.

Mar 19: Ursula Andress, Swiss actress, 87. Ruth Pointer, US singer, 77. Glenn Close, US actress, 76. Bruce Willis, US actor, 68. Natalie Barr, TV journalist, 55. Livinia Nixon, TV presenter, 48. Lenka , singer, 45. Mar 20: David Malouf, author, 89. William Hurt, US actor, 73. Ian Moss, Cold Chisel singer-songwriter, 68. Spike Lee, US filmmaker, 66. Dean Geyer, singer/actor, 37. Ruby Rose, actress, 37. Adam Blair, footy player, 37. Catherine McNeil, model, 34. Blake Ferguson Wellington-born footy player, 33. Jack Bird, footy player, 28.

Mar 21: Keith Potger, m ember of The Seekers, 82. Timothy Dalton, Welsh ‘James Bond’ actor, 79. Patsy Biscoe, children’s entertainer, 77. Gary Oldman, British actor, 65. Vince Sorrenti, comedian, 62. Matthew Broderick , US actor, 61. Rosie O’Donnell , US actress, 61.

Mar 22: William Shatner

Canadian Star Trek actor, 92. Roger Whittaker, British singer-songwriter, 87. Don Spencer Play School presenter, 86. Solomon Lew, businessman, 78. Harry Vanda , songwriter/Easybeats musician, 77.

Andrew Lloyd Webber, British composer, 75. Matthew Modine, US actor, 64. David Gillespie Narromine-born league player, 59. Reese Witherspoon, US actress, 47.

Support local 2

business

HAPPY for St. Patrick's Day!

FRECKLEBROWWNNIES

green cakes

BY JENET STEWART

Most of us have sampled an odd cake or two in our lifetime!

This week, Dubbo Photo News visited Sugar Lane Cake Design, a relatively new Dubbo business with all the expectations of a normal visit to a cake shop or bakery.

To our absolute surprise, this little store was jam packed with an exceptional array of patisserie items. Cinnamon scrolls, donuts, decorated muffins, chocolate and raspberry tarts, lemon meringue pies… the list goes on and on. It's truly hard to choose which will be your favourite.

The store even has gluten-free options.

To celebrate St. Patrick's Day, owner of Sugar Lane, Rowan Barnes, whipped up four very special and

delicious green cupcakes. Sugar Lane is located at 82 Wingewarra Street and is open from 8am to 3pm Tuesday to Friday and Saturdays 8am to 2pm.

Shane Jacobson

ROWAN BARNES AT SUGAR LANE CAKE DESIGN.

PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS

Dubbo's Pink Lady's celebrating with Dawn Serisier at Magnolia Cafe: Patsy Ferguson, Heather Thompson, Carol Lane, Anne Hearn, Susie Lumby, Deidre Walker and staff from Magnolia Cafe.

PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS

Watermelon Class

Dubbo North Primary School’s Kindergarten Watermelon Class were all smiles for this week’s Class of the Week photo.

Apart from creating some amazing artwork for their classroom, the group had been making delicious pancakes when Dubbo Photo News called to see them.

Last week they made frogs in a pond with jelly and chocolate frogs. Who knows what this clever and happy class will create next week!

BEHIND THE SCENES A man and a mud cake

Fe F ar a is s a gr reat t mo m ti tiva v to tor r wh w icch is s why y the e thr rea e t of o cho h co c laate t mud u cakake e sm s ea e red in their r hai a r go g t thhe e Ti T ta t n Macqqua u ri rie e Mu M d Run coomm m it t tee jumpinng g in i to t an imp m ro or mp mptu u wor o ko k ut u cal a le ed ‘r run n awa w y fr rom m Rod’, w e hen n th they’d d jus st sttar ted rela xi x ng g aft f ter r thi h s week’s cov o er r shoot As A the h se e pho h toos s ca c n at a te t st s , some m ti t me m s, s you just s can’t t run u fas st en

A Lot of Little Nothings: New exhibit features the humble bread tag

THEY'RE an annoying plastic convenience that we all throw away, but one Central West artist has turned them into myriad craft works.

"A Lot of Little Nothings" is a new mixed-media installation created by artist Shani Nottingham that explores issues surrounding the mass waste of single-use plastic bread tags, consumption and their environmental impact. The installation is currently on display at the Western Plains Cultural Centre until the end of May.

Utilising the mundane bread tags, which have been found, collected and donated,

Shani Nottingham fashions large sculptures that echo and mimic forms of nature to create an ultra-dimensional world.

A Lot of Little Nothings is a body of work that transforms and reimagines material beyond its initial purpose and expands its lifespan, reimaging and presenting its entities with a life force that is growing, thriving and multiplying within a new environment.

“As small pieces of single use plastic, bread tags are an abundant waste material, a polluting product that I reclaim and transform,” said artist Shani Nottingham.

She describes her work as “moving the bread tags past their initial purpose and life span to become something that has value and meaning, provoking response and creating a space for dialogue about single use plastic and waste”.

“Whatever the medium, I am continually drawn to pattern, colour, line and repetition. The theme of collecting is consistent too, as I find solace and joy in the process of creating order from chaos, observing similarities and disparities.”

Shani Nottingham is a Cowra-based artist and has been selected to be part of

the HomeGround program. HomeGround is an initiative of SPARC, Dubbo Regional Council’s Cultural Plan, which aims to support the continued growth of the professional creative sector in the region through professional development and mentorship of emerging artists.

“A Lot of Little Nothings is an amazing installation that aims to highlight the abundance of single-use plastic, the impact it is having on our environment and our relationship with plastic on both a large and small scale,” said Western Plains Cultural Centre curator Mariam Abboud.

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE: 6801 4000

COUNCIL SNAPSHOT DUBBO.NSW.GOV.AU

The demand for skilled workers is greater than ever.

If you have a qualification or skill to offer it’s time to register as a job seeker with Dubbo Region Skills. Register now at dubboskills.com.au

HAVE YOUR

A number of items are currently advertised looking for community feedback.

Have your say on notices of intention, plans, draft documents and more on Council’s dedicated Public Exhibition webpage.

Share your thoughts at dubbo.nsw.gov.au/public-exhibition

Tenders for the design and construction of a new fluoride dosing system for the John Gilbert Water Treatment Plant closed on Tuesday 28 February 2023.

After the contract has been awarded Council will be able to provide more accurate timelines based on the successful contractor’s submission.

The adopted 2022 Dubbo Regional Council Zero Emission Fleet (ZEF) Strategy and Implementation Plan is designed to support and guide Council in reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with its fleet operations. Read the document at dubbo.nsw.gov.au/plans-strategies

Artist Shani Nottingham with some of her works created from bread tags.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

is having a wonderful time with her mum and sister who are visiting Wellington all the way from Holland.

Out and about in Wello this week

By COLIN ROUSE

THIS week’s photos from our Wellington team capture the essence of what it means to enjoy life in our town. As you can see, locals are embracing their community and all it has to offer. Whether it’s gathering with friends for a coffee, welcoming family from overseas, or simply shopping local, we love our town!

Mallee Hen's Nest Cafe's happy staff, ready to serve. Ivy Keast, Shay Frail, Wendy Woolfrey and Bryce Boland

Bryce Boland brews a mean cup of coffee at The Mallee Hen

Agnes Redfern

Pictured are Agnes Redfern, Roeletta Mollema and Janny Cazemier.

The Cow and Calf is a great place for a yummy meal and a catch up with friends and family. Jason Fenton, Harrison Porter and Ada Fenton

Right: Brett Foody and Emily Fenton Far right: Rory and Cassie Porter

IN FOCUS

THUMBS UP!

Thumbs up to the entire team at Dubbo Private Hospital’s Day Surgery unit. I felt safe, comfortable and informed at every stage of my brief stay last Monday. The professionalism and understanding shown was truly appreciated. Thank you for the incredible work you do.

Thumbs up to the Firies and Ambulance drivers who helped me get to Dubbo Hospital from Gilgandra.

Thumbs up to Pat at AXXIS. I turned up unannounced at the shop in Centro with a phone she might not have seen as old as mine. I’ve had a death in the family in Queensland and needed help to stay in touch, so she told me what to do, but then also wrote it all down for me. I couldn’t believe how helpful she was.

Thumbs up to all the staff at Dubbo Hospital, from nurses to cleaners, especially the ICU and Surgical Units. Phil from Gil.

Thumbs up and a big shout out to Georgia at Dubbo Officeworks’ photo lab for fantastic customer service.

Thumbs up to Darren and the team at JR Car Detailing for the friendly and professional service they provide to their customers and for the excellent work they did on my old Ford recently – which looked in showroom condition by the time they had finished. Thank you.

Thumbs up to the first nations rainbow serpent float at the Mardi Gras and lovely welcome to country introduction. They did Dubbo and surrounds proud.

Thumbs up to the Indigenous cafe at Wellington. Spotless, friendly staff, very welcoming and best coffee in town for sure.

Thumbs up to Macquarie

Automotive and a big thank-you for fixing the problem with my car on such short notice – great service.

Thumbs up and many thanks to Warren from Coles Express service station on Cobra Street, for helping an elderly lady who was recently having problems with her car.

Thumbs up to Narromine Library for organising the wonderful barbershop quartet on Saturday morning. Such a treat for the town!

Thumbs up to Jason at Geoff Richards Panel Beating for his incredibly prompt, friendly service and generous gesture attending to my vehicle. What a great surprise to experience such high quality of service. Thank you!

Gilgandra CWA Latvian display

Contributed by HILDA NEWSTEAD

GILGANDRA CWA Evening Branch met for the first time in 2023, on Wednesday, February 15, at the CWA Rooms on Warren Road.

Branch president Rebekah Makila chaired the meeting and thanked all members for participating with the very successful Australia Day breakfast morning.

Brenda Yager displayed “Cricut” craft tags and the significance of the “Invisible String” Project. Brenda proposed a Cricut Machine handicraft session at our next meeting in March.

The Land Cookery Report discussed members’ contributions to the Land Cookery Day to be held in Wongarbon, including a butter cake, date & walnut loaf, sultana cake, and whole orange cake.

Helen and Hilda reported that they had attended Sam Farraway MP’s Gilgandra Grant Program

announcements, and the unveiling of the 100-year Commemorative seat in Hunter Park was covered by both the Gilgandra Weekly and the Country Woman’s Magazine.

From the International Report, Flora Native Bees Australia has over 1700 species of native bees ranging from the spectacularly large 24mm yellow and black carpenter bees down to the 2mm bee. Bees collect pollen from flowers to feed their young (flies do not do this although they may be seen eating).

In general business, the rooms remain popular for hiring purposes, including Work Skills/Employment Groups, Government Departments, exercise, and safety classes for over-65s “Stepping On” which is a seven-week community program for older adults which took place during December and January.

In other news, the CWA Wind-

Cranbrook bushfire, in photos

volunteer firefighter Kevin Parker, provide a visual of the intensity of the fire and the terrible aftermath from its destruction.

THE Cranbrook bushfire which broke out last week near Toongi on the Obley Road, approximately 20 kilometres south of Dubbo, burnt well over 1000 hectares of land.

These images, taken by

More volunteers are always needed by our Rural Fire Services. If you're interested in becoming a volunteer please make contact with your local brigade or contact the RFS Orana brigade on 6881 3900.

mill Yarners and the local Quilting Group meet weekly, the CWA Gilgandra Branch will attend the kiosk at this year’s Gilgandra show, and delegates from our

branch will attend the 2023 State conference to be held in Bathurst. Upcoming events include the Warren Chamber of Music Event, and the Gilgandra Film Festival.

Photo

specs: A technical note for photo contributors

We welcome your photos via email for publication. Please send each photo as a high-resolution jpeg image – at least 1MB per photo. Don’t let your Operating System/Windows/ iOS/phone etc downsize the image before emailing because these images are usually too small to print.

regional news papers for more than 125 years. We are also a member of Country Press Australia.

Helen Oates and Brenda Yager with the Gilgandra CWA Latvian display.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Photos contributed by KEVIN PARKER, VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER

Wordfind

Drop Down

No.

Crossmath

LEO: You’re feeling some seasonal fatigue. Summer has been hard on you. This will prompt you to look for deals on a last-minute trip or getaway.

VIRGO: You’ll finally be motivated to complete all the tasks you’ve been putting off. You must re-evaluate your circle of friends. Avoid crowds if it’s not safe to go out.

LIBRA: You might get a promotion at work. You could be given some rather imposing re sponsibilities. Keep your head up! If you’re in a relationship, your partner will demonstrate their commitment.

SCORPIO: Don’t be afraid of change at work. Although you must participate in a training course that requires much of your time, you’ll benefit from the change and feel great pride.

SAGITTARIUS: It’s almost time to renew your lease. This will prompt you to look for a new place or buy your own home. A big dream will come true.

CAPRICORN: Be careful about what you say. It could be misinterpreted. If only to clear your head, you’ll do a major clean-up or freshen up the paint at home.

AQUARIUS: Many stores already have discounts on new season fashions, and you can’t resist sprucing up your wardrobe. You won’t spare any expense. It’s an investment in yourself, after all.

B

I A S I N G

Starting with the seven-letter word, drop a letter and form a six-letter word. Continue in this manner until you reach the single letter at the bottom. You can rearrange the letters in each step, if necessary. There

PISCES: You’ll feel like conquering the world and going on a beautiful adventure. You’ll be full of ideas and propose several to your family and colleagues. The luckiest signs this week: Aries, Taurus and Gemini Gemini.

Are

1 Which recently deceased footballer famously scored off an unpenalised handling foul that became known as the ‘Hand of God’ in the 1986 World Cup quarter final?

2 The Rio de la Plata forms the border between which two South American countries?

3 Which revolutionary figure was known as El Libertador?

4 Which country gifted the Statue of Liberty to the US?

5 In what style is the statue?

6 In which region of Italy is the city of Naples?

7 In which country is the endangered eastern lowland gorilla (pictured) found?

8 Which African capital city is found on the opposite shore of the Congo River from Kinshasa?

9 What is the primary ingredient of the Iranian dish pilaf?

10 Who directed the 2012 film Argo?

Quick Crossword

ACROSS

1 Swiss currency (5)

4 Clergyman (9)

9 Breastbone (7)

10 Pottery (7)

11 African country (7)

12 News (7)

13 Made dapper (7,2)

15 Over (4)

17 Enthusiastic supporters of an actor, sport, etc (4)

19 Funeral or burial rites (9)

22 Sprinting (7)

25 Of, or relating to, China (7)

26 Dutch technology company (7)

27 Scoundrels (7)

28 Mental disorder (9)

29 Terminated (5)

Edgeword

No. 075

Place each of the tiles of letters into the blank jigsaw below to create four six-letter words going across and down.

DOWN

1 Place protected by natural features (8)

2 One who evens the score (7)

3 Binding agreements (9)

4 Appear sporadically (4,3,2)

5 Whole (5)

6 Solved (5)

7 Souvenir (7)

8 Most pleasant (6)

14 Messages sent on holiday (9)

15 Accept reluctantly (9)

16 Levied (8)

18 Yearly payment (7)

20 Island in the North Atlantic (7)

21 Support (4,2)

23 Being from 20-down (5)

24 Strong wind blasts (5)

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

dingier, dinner, dire, dirge, engird, gird, grid, grin, grind, grinned, heir, herd, herding, hinder, HINDERING, hire, hired, hiring, inhering, inner, reign, rein, reining, rend, rending, ride, ridge, riding, rigid, rind, ring, ringed

THE TOONS’ VIEWS

TIME WARP

The Buncha Hotel

One of Dubbo’s oldest pubs, the Railway Junction, commonly known as the ‘Buncha’, closed to the public on November 12, 2021. It was an extremely popular watering hole for generations of Dubbo people.

The Railway Junction Hotel in Fitzroy Street operated as the Exchange Hotel from 1881 to sometime between 1908 and 1912, when it was rebranded the Railway Junction.

The railway service from Sydney to Dubbo began in 1881.

The Exchange Hotel was built directly beside the Dubbo railway line and the adjoining rail freight distribution yard.

The original Exchange Hotel was a wooden structure, which remained in place until about 1908. The original wooden hotel was replaced with a two-storey brick building, sometime between 1908 and 1912. Exact dates for when the brick building was constructed and the rebranding took place are unclear.

Records show that Tooth’s Brewery operated the pub from 1918 to the 1970s.

Contributed by Steve Hodder

Crowds in my Coffee and Cars

By KEN SMITH

It’s the perfect partnership, Victoria Park and Dubbo Classic Cars and Coffee.

Victoria Park worked its magic (yet again) as newer cars and bikes and spectacular rebuilds enjoyed centrestage with regulars and plenty of new faces, locals and visitors alike, taking in nearly a century of cars and bikes at the March 2023 Dubbo Classic Cars and Coffee.

Dubbo Classic Cars and Coffee is held on the first Sunday of every month

(weather permitting and a wet weather venue is always on standby if needed).

Dubbo Classic Cars and Coffee is a family friendly event that caters for the passionate and those who have a passing interest in these beautiful cars and bikes.

It’s become the must attend monthly social event with the next Dubbo Classic Cars and Coffee is on Sunday April 2nd 2023.

A lotta laughs at Comedy Gala

A large crowd swarmed to Dubbo Regional Theatre to enjoy a night of laughs at the Multicultural Comedy Gala on Saturday, March 11, as part of the theatre’s 2024 Season program, Dare to be Different.

Justin Blown, Seth, Hannah, Darren and Kim Ogilvie

Ulla and Derek Edwards Jess and Lara Strickland

Candice Johnstone and Maile TongaJane Russ and David Payne

Ciorsdan and Paul SimonettRaymond Wheeler, Jody Phillips, Sheri Dunn and Christine Reynolds

Wendy Spencer, Bow Simpson (Dale’s Dad) and Chris and Nicole Delany

Steve Smith and Troy Pearson

Judith Mdar, Jason Hildred, Scott Baker and Jen Edge

Contributed by DRTCC

By KEN SMITH

Smith, Megan Laing and KC Grealy

Gargi Ganguly, Jenny Phillips, Liz Harris, Mel Clow, Kirrily Dear, Bec Camilleri, Angela Coker, Kristy White, Jess Phelps and Kendy Beasley

Back, Ashleigh Watmore and Alexandra Adams, front, Amy Welbourne and Liz Brown

Stephanie Toll and Emma Brown

Deborah Simic and Jasanna Pilon

Cantando Sorelle (Singing Sisters)

Back, Jan Gale, Barb Brown and Ruth Cargill, Front, Lyndal and Ruth Shanks

THE DIARY

THURSDAY

Above Board Gamers: SECOND and FOURTH

Thursday of the month, 6pm, upstairs at the Devil’s Hollow Brewery, February dates, 9th and 23rd, contact Alan 0432 278 235.

Akela Playgroup: Scout Hall, 4 Akela St., 9.30am, Sharna 0438 693 789.

Badminton: Delroy High School Auditorium, East Street, West Dubbo, 7.30pm-9.30pm, $5 to play ($3 for school students) $22 yearly insurance ($15 for school students). All are welcome. Chris 6887 3413.

Bingo - South Dubbo Veteran’s & Community Men’s Shed: 11am-12.30pm, West Dubbo Bowling Club. New players welcome.

Contact Barry 0439 344 349.

Coffee, Craft and Chat: 9.30am-12pm, Gospel Hall, Cnr of Boundary Road and Taylor Street.

Contact Anne 0428 425 958.

Croquet: 8.15am, Muller Park Tennis and Croquet courts, Brisbane St, North Dubbo, new players of all ages are welcome. Tricia 0428 876 204 or Margaret 0427 018 946.

CWA Dubbo: FIRST Thursday of the month, 9.30am to 11am, Oaktree Retirement Village Peel Street, Dubbo. New members welcome Marion 6884 2957.

CWA Wongarbon Handicraft: SECOND Thursday of the month, enquires to Liz 0401 174 883.

CWA Wongarbon: FIRST Thursday of the month, 10am, Wongarbon CWA rooms. Marjorie 6884 5558.

Digital @ Dubbo: 10am to 1pm, Macquarie Regional Library, 45-minute session for your internet or technology questions, FREE, bookings essential, contact 6801 4510

Digital skills for seniors: Free one-on-one help to use your smartphone, tablet/iPad, or laptop. Need help going online or do you have some questions? Connecting Community Services, 31-33 Church Street. To make a booking, phone 1800 319 551.

Dubbo Anglican Church DNA Youth Group: 7pm-9pm, Anglican Church Hall, 158 Brisbane St., during school terms.

Dubbo Anglican Church Trinity Kids

Playgroup: 10am-12pm, Anglican Church Hall, 158 Brisbane St., during School terms. Contact 6884 4990.

Dubbo Community Men’s Shed Inc: Mondays 9am to 1pm and Thu/Sat 1pm to 5pm. Small joining fee after three visits. All men are welcome, Kevin 0427 253 445.

Dubbo RSL Day Club: 10am and 2pm, Orana Gardens

Family History Society (Dubbo & District): 1pm to 4pm, volunteers on site during these hours, Western Plains Cultural Centre Community Arts Centre, Cnr Wingewarra & Gipps Street

Heart Support Walking Group: 12.30pm, (also Tuesdays), Ollie Robbins Oval, Cnr of Bligh Street. Supports gentle exercise promoting healthy hearts, contact Ray 0437 541 942

Line Dancing: 9.30am to 12 noon, at David Palmer Centre, Cobbora Road. Kathy 6888 5287 or Lynn 6888 5263.

Macquarie Masons Dubbo: SECOND Thursday of the month. All visitors are welcome, John O’Brien 0405 051 896.

Outback Dragons Dubbo: EVERY Thursday, 5.45pm (in summer), Sandy Beach amenities block. Come and try dragon boating, your first five paddles are Free. Newcomers are always welcome, email info@outbackdragons.com.au or call Robyn 0427462504.

Wellington Arts and Crafts: 10am-3pm, Small Hall in the Anglican Church grounds, Wellington, variety of crafts, activities and workshops offered. Contact Lynne 6845 4454.

FRIDAY

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings: 7pm (1.5hrs) - ID meeting, Dubbo Community Health, Palmer Street, Dubbo. Contact Dee 0417 422 750, 1300 222 222 or www.aa.org.au, for meeting information.

Alzheimer’s & Dementia Support Group: THIRD Friday of the month, 2pm, Anne or Jeanie 6881 3704.

Central West Makers Place: 12pm-6pm, South Dubbo Veterans and Community Men’s Shed, corner of Palmer and High Streets, Dubbo. 3D printing, basic electronics, robotics, silk screening and pottery. Adam 0431 038 866.

Communion Service (Dubbo Anglican Church): 10am, Brotherhood House chapel, 158 Brisbane St.

Community Kitchen: FIRST Friday of the month, 6.30pm, Holy Trinity Hall, Brisbane St, free meal.

CPSA (Combined Pensioners and Superannuants Association): SECOND Friday each month, 10am, Dubbo RSL Club. Discuss issues, guest speaker. Monthly meeting will be held on Friday March 10. Further Information Barb 0427251121

Dubbo Nepalese Christian Fellowship:

6.30-8pm. Contact Cyrel on 0416 826 701 or Kabita

0452 406 234.

Dubbo Parkinson’s Support Group: FIRST Friday of each month, 10.30am, Horizons village, Minore Road, Dubbo. People with Parkinson’s and their carers are welcome. Lorna 0416 240 626.

Dubbo VIEW Club: Cards & Games afternoon will be held on Friday, 17th March at Dubbo RSL, commencing at 1.00PM. Enquiries please phone

Shirley on 0427-822-874

Lunchtime Prayer Group - Dubbo Anglican

Church: 1-2pm in Brotherhood House, 158 Brisbane Street. All Welcome. Bring your lunch.

Narromine Food Barn: 9am-11am, Low-cost groceries and FREE fruit, vegetables and bread with any purchase to people in need. Contact Ken Rumble on 0414 477 365.

Rhymetime: 10.30am - 11am, during school term only, suits 0-2 years and families, stories, song and movement. Macquarie Regional Library.

Spinning and Weaving: 10am, at Dubbo Arts and Craft Cottage, 137 Cobra Street. Lorraine 6887 8371.

Tai Chi at U3A: 10am, at the Community Arts Centre, Western Plains Cultural Centre, 76 Wingewarra Street. Richard 6888 5656. The churches of Dubbo: Will come together as one ecumenical community on Friday March 3rd to celebrate the World Day of Prayer.

At St Bridgid’s Church Dubbo commencing 10 am. All are most welcome.

Join us for morning tea after the celebration.

The News Café: 10am - 12.30pm, for lively conversation about current news and affairs. Free, no bookings required. Dubbo Library.

Urban Tribe: 2pm, with dancing, music, singing, caring and sharing. Everyone is welcome and let’s do it. 0459 762 702.

Wellington Lions Preloved Book Fair: Thousands of good quality preloved books, Cds and DVDs, now also Jigsaw Puzzles! Open every Saturday 10am to 2pm in the Western Gallery opposite Cameron Park.

Western Plains Trefoil Guild: SECOND Friday of each month, 10.30am, Dubbo West Guide Hall.

Everyone is welcome. Please confirm the meeting will be on. Dorothy 6884 6646.

SATURDAY

Beekeepers Inc - Orana: SECOND Saturday of the month, 9.15am, Narromine Tennis Club rooms, unless other arrangements are made. Contact orana.secretary@beekeepers.asn.au Bridge Club - Dubbo: 1pm until approximately 4.30pm, Bultje Street. $7 members, $9 non-members. Libby 0428 254 324.

Croquet: 8.15am, Muller Park Tennis and Croquet courts, Brisbane St, North Dubbo. New players of all ages are welcome. Tricia 0428 876 204 or Margaret 0427 018 946. Cumnock Market: The next Cumnock Market will be on Saturday 18th February from 9 am to 12 noon.

CWA Gilgandra Market: FIRST Saturday of the month, 9am-1pm, Cakes, fruit, pickles, plants and more! New stall holders are welcome. $5 per stall, proceeds to CWA. Hilda 6847 1270. Dubbo Anglican Church Vigil Communion Service: 6pm, 158 Brisbane Street. Contact 6884 4990.

Dubbo Bridge Club: 1pm, Bultje Street (Tennis Courts), Dubbo. $7 members, $9 non-members. Libby 0428 254 324 Dubbo Community Men’s Shed Inc: Mondays, 9am to 1pm and Thu/Sat 1pm to 5pm. Small joining fee after three visits. “All men are welcome.” Kevin 0427 253 445.

Dubbo Slot Car Racing Club: 4pm, FIRST and THIRD Saturday of the month, Seniors (15+), old Scouts Building, 189-191 Talbragar Street, across from Aldi. Terry 0408 260 965.

Embroiderers - Dubbo: 10am-3pm, (also see Tuesday listing), All are welcome, Macquarie Regional Library, Contact, Ruth 0422 777 323 Family History Society (Dubbo & District): 10am to 1pm, volunteers on site during these hours, Western Plains Cultural Centre Community Arts Centre, Cnr Wingewarra & Gipps Street

Outback Writers Centre Hub Meeting: FIRST Saturday of the month, (Feb-Dec), 10am1pm, Western Plains Cultural Centre, Community Arts Centre, Music Room, 76 Wingewarra Street, Dubbo.

Outback Writers Centre Write-in: THIRD Saturday of the month, (Feb-Nov), 11.30am1.30pm, Macquarie Regional Library, Cnr Macquarie & Talbragar Streets, Dubbo

Patchwork and Quilters Group: 9am, SECOND and LAST Saturday of the month, at the Dubbo Pipe Band Hall, Corner of Darling and Wingewarra Streets, Dubbo. New members are always welcome, and we happily support anyone wanting to learn. Further enquiries to Charlene on 0408 825 180.

Parkrun - Dubbo: 8am every week, FREE timed (with barcode), 5km run, jog or walk, starts at Sandy Beach, dogs, prams are welcome. Email dubbohelpers@parkrun.com to help!

RSL Tennis Club:12:30p.m. Paramount Tennis Club courts for enjoyable social tennis. All welcome 0437824743

Saturday Art: 10am, at Dubbo Arts and Crafts Society Cottage, 137 Cobra St. Pam 6885 1918.

Seventh-day Adventist Church: 9.30am, small group bible study (Sabbath School) and children’s/youth Sabbath School, and 11am, Divine Service. Cnr Cobra and Sterling Streets. dubbo.adventist.org.au

Talbragar CWA: first meeting for 2023 will be Saturday March 4 commencing at 2.00pm in the CWA Hall, 45L Boothenba Road, Dubbo. Planning for 2023 will take place at this meeting.

Guest Speaker for this meeting will be Felicity Lochhead about recycling, please bring along items which you are not sure if able to be recycled. For more information about the meeting please contact Ronda on 68885231 or Linda on 68827351.

Western Plains Cultural Centre

Smokescreen Film Season: FIRST Saturday of each month, 4pm, February to November. Tickets $10, Season pass, $70.

SUNDAY

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings (Steps and Traditions): 7pm (1.5hrs), ‘Steps and Traditions’ meeting, Dubbo Community Health, Palmer Street, Dubbo. Ph: Jack 0418 605 041, Sally 0427 829 807, 1300 222 222 or www.aa.org.au for meeting information.

Australian Kite Flyers Society: SECOND Sunday of the month, 10am, Jubilee Oval. All welcome to come along and see how to build and fly modern (and old) kites. David 0476 223 342. Bicycle User Group Social Ride: 9am, at Wahroonga Park. Mick 0437 136 169 or Sam 0429826076, dubbobug.org.au

Dubbo Acoustic Musicjam (DAMjam): SECOND Sunday of the month, 2pm to 5pm, Milestone Hotel, upstairs. All are welcome. Join us for this acoustic session with other musicians or just listen. Peter 0457 787 143. Dubbo Anglican Church Traditional Communion Service: 8am, 158 Brisbane Street. 6884 4990.

Dubbo Anglican Church: 10am, Trinity Kids Sunday School and family Communion service. Dubbo Baptist Church: 6pm, at 251 Cobra Street (next to Spotlight), during school terms. Come along and discover if church is still relevant in today’s world. Everyone is welcome. 6884 2320. Dubbo Baptist Church: 9.30am, 251 Cobra Street (next to Spotlight). Everyone is welcome.

6884 2320.

Dubbo Pistol Club: 12.30pm, 143L Old Dubbo Road, 6882 0007.

Mindful Crafting for Adults: 12.3pm-2pm, crafting group learning new or improving existing crafting skills. Experienced and beginners. For the next session date, contact Dubbo Library on 6801 4510.

Orana K9 Training Club INC: 9am daylight savings time, 10am, Eastern Standard, Katrina Gibbs Field Macleay St, Dubbo. New class intake is FIRST Sunday of each month, dogs MUST be vaccinated and certificate sighted at first class. Contact Reg Parker 0428 849 877, Dianne Acheson 0429 847 380

Orana Pistol Club: 9am, Hyandra Lane, Dubbo. Sundays only, 6887 3704. Traditional Catholic Latin Mass –Rawsonville: SECOND Sunday of the month, 9am, Rawsonville Soldier’s Memorial Hall, Rawsonville Road. 0429 920 842.

Transcendental Meditation (TM): Free introductory talks via www.tm.org.au. Maharishi Foundation Australia scientifically proven benefits of TM. Contact David 0424 252 834.

MONDAY

Alcoholics Anonymous (Daily Reflections Meeting): 12pm (1.5hrs), ‘Daily Reflections’ meeting, St Brigid’s Catholic Church meeting rooms, 198 Brisbane St, Dubbo. Please contact Jack 0418 605 041 or Sally 0427 829 807, 1300 222 222 or www.aa.org.au for information.

Amnesty International Dubbo: SECOND Monday of the month, 5.30pm-6.30pm, St Brigid’s

for that Thursday’s edition.

meeting room. The group will provide a platform for people passionate about human rights and social justice to discuss these issues and take positive action in their local community. Contact Sandra Lindeman amnesty.dubbo@gmail.com or 0419 167 574.

Anglican Women’s Association: 5.30pm, at Holy Trinity. Dorothy 6884 4990.

Australian Air Force Cadets: 6pm-9.30pm, at Army Barracks (Cnr Kokoda Pl and Wingewarra St). NOW recruiting, 13 to 18-year-olds prepared for a challenge and to undertake fun and rewarding activities. Come down to your local unit, 313 “City of Dubbo” Squadron.

Dubbo Bridge Club: FOURTH Monday of the month, 10am-1pm, Bultje Street. $7 members, $9 non-members. Libby 0428 254 324.

Dubbo City Physical Culture Club: 4.30pm onward, Wesley Community Hall, 66 Church Street, Dubbo. Fun affordable dance class for girls and ladies, 4yrs and up, of all fitness levels. Email dubbocityphysie@live.com.au for information.

Dubbo Community Men’s Shed Inc: Mondays, 9am to 1pm and Thu/Sat 1pm to 5pm. Small joining fee after three visits. “All men are welcome.” Kevin 0427 253 445.

Dubbo Multicultural Women’s Group: THIRD Monday of the month, 10am, St Brigid’s Meeting Room in Brisbane Street. Women of all backgrounds are invited. 1800 319 551.

Dubbo VIEW Club: The next lunch meeting will be on March 13 at the Dubbo RSL club, commencing at 11.30am. Guests are always most welcome. Enquiries please phone Beth on 0419-827-557 by 10am Thursday 9th March.

Macquarie Women’s Bowling Club Card

Afternoon: SECOND Monday of the month. $7 per person, includes lucky door prizes and afternoon tea. Contact Rosslyn 6882 4989, 1300 222 222, www.aa.org.au for information.

Patchwork: 10am-3pm, at Dubbo Arts & Craft Cottage, 137 Cobra St, contact June 6882 4677.

RFDS Dubbo Support Group monthly meetings: FIRST Monday of the month (except Public Holidays), 5.00pm at RFDS Visitor

Experience, 21 Judy Jakins Drive, Dubbo Airport.

President Jeanette Hamilton 0429 673 366. Rotary Club of Dubbo: 6pm-8pm, Westside Hotel, Whylandra Street, West Dubbo. Contact Lyn Wicks, 0428 342 374, Carla Pittman, 0418 294 438 or email dubborotaryclub@hotmail.com.

Sing Australia Dubbo Choir: 7pm-9pm, Bridge Club, Bultje Street. NO auditions, no requirements to read music and no singing experience necessary. Contact Michele Peak 0428 680 775. Tai Chi 10 Form: 2.30pm-3.30pm during school terms at U3A, Community Arts Centre, WPCC, 76 Wingewarra Street Dubbo. Beginners are welcome. Laney 6882 4680 or laneyluk@gmail.com.

TUESDAY

Aboriginal Elders Walkabout Ministry

Group: 9.30am - 2pm in Holy Trinity Church Hall, 158 Brisbane Street

AllAbilitiesDanz: 9.45am, Dubbo RSL Club. Classes are low impact, work on heart health, flexibility, mobility, coordination and strength. Tracy 0416 010 748 for a free trial or to join the free class

Book Club: FIRST Tuesday of the month, 2pm, share, discuss and review books, or start your own book club. Register your club with the library to access a wide range of book club titles to borrow, read, discuss and enjoy. For more information contact Dubbo Library, 6801 4510

Croquet: 8.15am, Muller Park Tennis and Croquet courts, Brisbane St, North Dubbo. New players

of all ages are welcome. Tricia 0428 876 204 or Margaret 0427 018 946

Dementia Sing Out Choir: 11am-12.30pm, David Palmer Centre at Old Lourdes Hospital site, entry on Cobbora Road. Lunch included, contact Anne Gemmell or Jeanie Cronk on 6881 3704

Depression Recovery Group: 10.30am, at the Catholic Parish Meeting Room, Brisbane St. Norm 6882 6081 or Bill 6882 9826.

Digital @ Dubbo: 10am to 1pm, Confused, worried, stumped or frustrated by the internet or tech? Book a free, 45-minute one-on-one session with our team who can assist with your technology queries. Contact Dubbo Library, 6801 4510 Digital Skills for Seniors: Free one-on-one help to use your smartphone, tablet/iPad, or laptop. Need help going online or do you have some technology questions? Connecting Community Services, 31-33 Church Street. To make a booking, phone 1800 319 551.

Dubbo City Physical Culture Club: 5pm onward, Holy Trinity Hall, Brisbane Street, Dubbo. Fun, affordable dance class for girls and ladies, 4yrs and up, of all fitness levels. Email dubbocityphysie@live.com.au for information.

Dubbo and District Computer Club: 7pm, Akela Place Hall, contact Daryl 0408 284 300. Dubbo Chess Club: 7pm-9pm, at Dubbo RSL. Juniors welcome. Don 0431 460 584 or Sandy 0408 200 564

Dubbo City Ladies Probus Club: 2ND Tuesday of the month, 10am, February and March (AGM after March), Masonic Village Hall, Darby Close, Contact Annemieke Neville 0432305103 or Liz Lamble 0432369500.

Dubbo Embroiderers: 9.30am - 3pm, SECOND and FOURTH Tuesday of the month, (also see Saturday listing), Dubbo Bridge Club, Elston Park. All are welcome, Contact Ruth 0422 777 323. Dubbo Lions Club Inc: FIRST and THIRD Tuesday of the month, 6.30pm, Club Dubbo. PO Box 285 Dubbo, Lois on 0428288325 or dubbolionsinc@gmail.com.

Dubbo Men’s Probus: FIRST Tuesday of every month, 11am, Masonic Hall, contact Bob Ellis 0428217752

Dubbo Prostate Support Group: 10am, Tuesday, February 7, Dubbo Memorial RSL Club, contact Elizabeth 0408 682 968 Dubbo RSL Euchre Club: 7pm, for 7.30pm, Dubbo RSL, contact Glen 0419 179 985 or Doreen 6882 6163

Family History Society (Dubbo & District): 1pm to 4pm, Cnr Wingewarra & Gipps Sts, Western Plains Cultural Centre, Community Arts Centre, volunteers on site during these hours. Girls Brigade: During school term, 6pm to 8pm, Orana Baptist Church, 4 Palmer St. For all school aged girls. Enjoy crafts, games, camps, stories, songs, cooking and much more. Julie 0428 821 829 Heart Support Walking Group: 12.30pm, (also Thursday), Ollie Robbins Oval, Cnr of Bligh Street. Supports gentle exercise promoting healthy hearts, contact Ray 0437 541 942 Orana Physical Culture: 4pm onwards, starting with the 2-4 years Sparkles class in the Auditorium at St Mary’s Primary School. New members are always welcome. For other class times and information see the Orana Physical Culture Facebook page.

Rotary Club of Dubbo Macquarie: 12.30pm2pm, Westside Hotel, contact Peter McInnes 0417 140 149

Rotary Club of Dubbo South: 6pm, at South Dubbo Tavern

Silver Craft: THIRD Tuesday of the month, 10am, at Dubbo Arts and Crafts Society Cottage,

137 Cobra St. Julie 6884 4919

Smart Recovery (Behaviour Change Support Group): 5pm, online or in person.

Contact Rob on 0417 497 187.

South Dubbo Veteran’s & Community Men’s Shed: 9am to 12pm, Cnr of High and Palmer Streets. New members welcome Storytime for children: 10.30am - 11am during school terms at Macquarie Regional Library, for children aged 3 to 5 and their families. Free session filled with stories, songs, rhymes and activities. To book visit www.mrl. nsw.gov.au Toastmasters Club: FIRST and THIRD Tuesday of the month, 7pm-9pm, Dubbo RSL Club, Brisbane St., Gain confidence in speaking and leading skills. There are club, area and district competitions to participate in. Sharon Allan 0408 156 015 or email sallan@rhdubbo.com.au.

WEDNESDAY

Akela Playgroup: (also see Thursday listing), 10.30am, Scout Hall, 4 Akela Street, contact Sharna 0438 693 789.

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings: 7pm, (1.5hrs), ‘Topic’ meeting, St Brigid’s Catholic Church meeting rooms, 198 Brisbane Street, Dubbo, contact Jack 0418605041 or Sally 0427 829 807, 1300 222 222 or www.aa.org. au, for information.

AllAbilitiesDanz: 10.30am, West Dubbo

Primary Community Centre. Kids, 0 to 5, an interactive class, music, props and movement. Gold coin donation per family.

Blood Cancer Support Group: FIRST Wednesday of each month, 10.30am-12pm, Venue changes each month. Louise or Emma 0412 706 785.

Brain Training: 2pm to 3.30pm, Macquarie

Regional Library, Dubbo, puzzles and interactive games to improve memory, concentration and problem-solving skills. Spaces limited; bookings required. Contact 6801 4510

Breast Cancer Support Group: FOURTH Wednesday of every month, 10am, Baptist Church, Palmer Street, Community Health 5853 2545

Bric-a-brac sale, weekly - South Dubbo

Veterans and Community Men’s Shed: 10am-12pm, Corner of Palmer and High Streets. Contact Barry on 0439 344 349

Coffee, Craft & Chat: FORTNIGHTLY, 10am-12pm, Gospel Chapel on Boundary Road. Contact Anne 0428 425 958.

CWA Dubbo Evening branch: FIRST

Wednesday of the month, 7pm, 3 Frith Street. New members welcome. Contact Barb 0409 159 556.

CWA Narromine: SECOND Wednesday of the month, 5.30pm, USMC. New members are welcome. Contact Carolyn 0427747478.

CWA Terramungamine: SECOND

Wednesday of the month, 10am, Dubbo RSL Club. New members are most welcome. Contact Barb 0427 251 121.

Dementia Friendship Group: SECOND

Wednesday of the month, 10am, Western Plains Cultural Centre, Creo Cafe (formerly The Outlook Cafe), Wingewarra St. Contact

Anne Gemmell or Jeanie Cronk on 6881 3704

Digital @ Dubbo: 2pm - 4pm, Macquarie

Regional Library, Dubbo, Learn about video calls, online privacy and shopping, internet and technology questions, Free, 45-minute, one-on-one session. Contact 6801 4510

Digital skills for seniors: Free one-onone help to use your smartphone, tablet/ iPad, or laptop. Need help going online or do you have some questions? Connecting Community Services, 31-33 Church Street. To make a booking, phone 1800 319 551. Dubbo Arts and Craft Cottage: 10am-

4pm, 137 Cobra Street. A large range of handcrafted gifts made by members available.

Contact 6881 6410.

Dubbo Bobbin Lacemakers: THIRD

Wednesday of the month, 10am-3pm, Arts & Crafts Society Cottage and Craft Shop, 137 Cobra Street. Visitors, new members are very welcome. Contact Judy 6882 5776.

Dubbo Bridge Club: 9.45am, for 10am1pm, Bultje Street (Tennis Courts), Dubbo. $7 members, $9 non-members. Libby 0428

254 324

Dubbo Community Garden: 9am-12pm, 4 Palmer Street. A time to garden with others, learn more skills and grow friendships. All are welcome. Contact Denise 0433 623 842 or Julie 0428 821 829

Dubbo Electric Vehicle Interest, Owners, Users & Supporters

(DEVIOUS) group: 12pm to 1pm, FIRST

Wednesday of each month, Western Plains

Cultural Centre café. Anyone interested in learning about EVs is welcome to join. Chris 0409 321 470.

Dubbo Garden Club: 10am, FIRST

Wednesday of each month, Garden gatherings with morning tea. Contact, President, Annette Storer, 0429 828 882.

Dubbo Ratepayers and Residents

Association: 6.30pm, every SECOND

Wednesday of each month, RSL Coffee Shop.

Jenny 6884 4214 or Merilyn 0458 035 323.

Dundullimal Dubbo Support Crew Inc: 10am, FOURTH Wednesday of each month, Dundullimal Homestead. We support the operations at the Homestead, guiding, tours, gardening, and helping in café. Fun, friendship, learn as you go! All are welcome. Contact 6884 9984 or dundullimal@nationaltrust.com.au

Gamblers Anonymous: 6pm, Baptist Church, Dubbo. Victor 0407 799 139. Geurie Craft Group: 9am-2pm, Geurie Bowling Club. Everyone is welcome. Shirley 6887 1251

Learning Meditation for Health and Wellbeing:First Wednesday of each month

Starting Wednesday 8th March 10am to 11:30am Buninyong Community Centre

(Next to Buninyong Public School) Myall St Dubbo

Join us for monthly meditation instruction and practice run by Monastics from Wellington Buddhist Centre. Line Dancing: 6.30pm to 9pm, David Palmer Centre, Cobbora Rd. Kathy 6888 5287 or Lynn 6888 5263.

Lodge Allan Stuart 416: SECOND Wednesday of every month, Geurie Masonic Centre. Please email secretary@lodgeallanstuart416.org.au

Macquarie Intermediate Band: 6pm, during school terms, Band Hall, Boundary Rd. Players of all ages wanted for the concert band. Conservatorium 6884 6686 or info@ macqcon.org.au or Dubbo District Band on 0422 194 059 or email at dubboband@gmail. com.

Walter T. Grant Seniors Social Club: 9am-2pm, Number 1 Oval, Club house. $6 per day. Please bring your own lunch. Cards and games are played before lunch, after lunch is Bingo. New members welcome. Contact Jan Miller 0418 255 217 West Dubbo Rotary: 6pm, Club Dubbo, Whylandra Street West Dubbo.

Wriggle and Rhyme and Storytime: 10.30am-11am, during school term, 0-5 years and families. Free. Movement, rhymes and stories. Bookings via www.mrl.nsw.gov.au

Zumba Kids: 4.15pm, West Dubbo Primary Community Centre. A FUN dynamic class that keeps young bodies active, for kids aged 5 to 12. Gold coin donation per family.

Play Corner

Dubbo

Our greatest sporting rivalry

How the 100-year-old Astley Cup came into being

Contributed by PATRICK BOURKE

THIS is the second article in our fascinating series by Patrick Bourke from the Bindyi Club, on the unique history of the Astley Cup – one of the oldest sporting contests in Australia – that is held annually between public high schools from Dubbo, Bathurst, and Orange.

Patrick, in this new essay, explores the genesis of the competition that still engenders fierce rivalry, great companionship, and sporting excellence, to this day.

The Early-Inter School Sporting Events at Dubbo High School and the Birth of the Astley Cup:

Local history book, Milestones and Memories, celebrates the past 100 years of public secondary schooling in Dubbo from 1917 to 2017. This work – edited by Pam Bell and published by the Bindyi Club (ex-students of Dubbo High School and Dubbo College Association) – explores Dubbo High School’s early involvement in inter-school sporting events with Orange, Bathurst, and Wellington high schools.

This history included, in August 1920, a group of students from Fort Street Boys’ High School in Sydney, visiting Dubbo and taking part in athletics and rugby union, as well as debating, against Dubbo High students.

The Fort Steet Boys’ School, in their September 1920 school magazine, Fortian, wrote fondly about their trip to both Dubbo High and Bathurst High, and commented that the students were very appreciative of the hospitality that was offered by these two country high schools.

Dubbo High School’s first School Principal, Charles Chrismas, and Dubbo High School’s first School Captain, Edgar Ford, would themselves later become associated with the educationally-elite Fort Street Boys’ High.

Chrismas became principal from

1935 until his retirement from the NSW Education Department at the end of 1944, with Ford a teacher at the school during the 1950s.

A check of our old local town newspapers from the 1920s that have been digitalised and are now available on the National Library of Australia’s TROVE website, shows that there was an annual multi-sports competition between Dubbo High School, Orange High School, and Bathurst High School from at least 1921.

In these early inter-school visits, the mail trains were the usual means of transport with private billeting of students providing the accommodation for the visiting students. Often these inter-school visits concluded with a banquet and a dance. The late Neil McCusker CBE, an ex-student of Dubbo High School (1920–22), coincidentally became the Commissioner of the NSW Railways (1956–72).

The sports played in this competition were athletics, football, basketball (now known as netball), hockey, and tennis. There was no trophy for this annual sporting competition between Orange High, Bathurst High School, and Dubbo High for what later became known as the Astley Cup, until 1925, however.

There was an interesting article in the National Advocate (Bathurst) newspaper on 29 July, 1921 which reported on this lack of a sporting trophy. The article stated that NSW Education Department Ministers had made promises about providing a trophy for the sporting competition between Bathurst High School, Orange High School, Mudgee High School, and Dubbo High School. https:// trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/158677412. Nothing, however, came from these promises.

The Dubbo Liberal and Macquarie Advocate newspaper of 14 August 1923, however reported that: “tomorrow (Wednesday 15 August) Dubbo High School would hold a sports day. There would be a football match for the Astley Cup

between Dubbo High School and Sacred Heart College, Dubbo.

“There would also be a hockey match between the past and present girls and a number of other attractions. The admission charge is one shilling and the funds raised will be for the School Reference Library.”

On Friday, 17 August, 1923 the newspaper wrote further about “the Astley Cup”, which was being donated by the Dubbo businessman, Laurence Astley.

The newspaper stated that, in donating his sporting trophy, Laurence Astley had made a number of conditions. One of these conditions was that the Astley Cup will be a football match that would be competed for solely by the schools within 50 miles of Dubbo. It was not to be played on a Sunday. The objective of the donation was to encourage and control school football.

The newspaper then reported on the sporting events that Dubbo High School hosted on 15 August.

It was reported that: “the weather was splendid, though a trifle cold. There was a good roll-up of parents and citizens. Past pupils of Dubbo High were there to cheer on the students. Mr Chrismas and all his masters were there too. The Sacred Heart College boys were encouraged by Brother Alphonus and Brother Eunan.”

Before this Astley Cup match, the Dubbo High girls played the Dubbo High ex-students in basketball (what we know today as netball), with the students winning by nine points to one.

There were also athletics events consisting of class races and three-legged and sack races, and a relay. A hockey match was also held between the past and present Dubbo High girls, with the “old” girls winning by three goals to one. There were also tennis matches played.

In the Astley Cup football match, the Dubbo High boys were toogood for the Sacred Heart boys, who played “pluckily” but lost by 32 points to four. The newspaper

thought that it was worth recording the names of the students who played in this first Astley Cup.

Dubbo High School: H Lovett (captain), Walden, Deacon, Simpson, Kesby, Turner, Gulliver, Christie, Brian (Bryant), Wise, Astley, Carson and Eddy.

Sacred Heart College: Lynch, B Moore, W Moore, K Moore, Dowd, Vaughan, Weaver, McQuillan, Gough, Whittaker, Hermes, Hull and Bryne.

From this sports day, £35 (pounds) were raised for the School Reference Library Fund.

The Astley Cup was not competed for in 1924. It appears that, during this year, there was a review of the Astley Cup and probably discussions between the trustees of the trophy, who were Laurence Astley, the donor of the Cup, and Dubbo High School, the holder of the Cup.

It was very likely recognised, that Dubbo High School would dominate future Astley Cup events as it then ran, with Dubbo High the only school in the area with students in what we now call Years 10 and 11.

However, during 1923 and 1924, the annual inter-school muti-sports competition between Dubbo High, Orange High and Bathurst High continued, still without a trophy. The Astley Cup trustees during 1924 or early 1925, made the decision that Orange High and Bathurst High should join Dubbo High in the Astley Cup and the competition should be expanded to include the five sports that these three high schools had been competing in each year, during the pre-

vious years.

On 9 June 1925, The Dubbo Dispatch and Wellington Independent newspaper reported that Dubbo High, Orange High, and Bathurst High, would participate in the Astley Cup in five sports, they being football (boys), athletics (boys and girls), hockey (girls), basketball (girls – now known as netball) and tennis (boys and girls).

As noted in the Astley Cup book – written and complied by the late Harry Treverrow in 1973 – a point-scoring system was also introduced in 1925 for the Cup. This was quite important – especially if each of the three high schools won a round of the Astley Cup – with the school with the highest points aggregate, the winner.

Over the years, the point-scoring system has been changed and, in recent times, the Astley Cup has been expanded to eight sports. Today boys’ soccer, girls’ soccer and boys’ basketball, are included in the Astley Cup. Girls’ basketball was renamed netball after “American” basketball came to Australia during the 1960s.

Sources:

Book, Milestones and Memories. Celebrating the past 100 years of Public Secondary Education in Dubbo. 19172017. Edited by Pam Bell. Published by the Bindyi Club Inc. in 2017.

Book, Astley Cup 1923-1973 Jubilee Year. Written and compiled by H G Treverrow. Published by the Dubbo High School Ex-Students Union in 1973. National Library of Australia’s TROVE website – digitalized copies of old Australian newspapers.

Fort Street High School’s website – digitalised copies of the Fortian magazine.

Former Dubbo High student, Karen James recently won a competition recently for design of a new logo commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Astley Cup sporting rivarly. her design impressed the judges, as it combines the old Dubbo High badge logo with the logo of Dubbo High. For her prize, she will receive a 100-year Astley Cup supporters pack, and a week’s free lunch at the school canteen!

Hippos host final round of Interclub triathlon series

If you were wondering about the swarming swimmers, cyclists and runners around the Riverbank precinct on Sunday, it was the final round of the Central West Triathlon Interclub series. Wallabies and Redbacks joined our local Hippos against clubs from Cowra and Orange.

Mudgee Redbacks made it back to back titles in another demonstration of the mid-western town’s sporting prowess.

Congratulations to Hippos Club officials and the SES and other volunteers, local Council and Police who endured everyone was hydrated and safe.

RESULTS:

Men’s sprint

 1st Gareth Fuller (Mudgee)

 2nd Angus

Argent-Smith(Bathurst)

 3rd Mathew Low (Mudgee)

Women’s sprint

 1st Julia Manix (Dubbo)

 2nd Mel Mertens (Dubbo)

 3rd Sian Potter (Mudgee)

RSL Combination bowlers roll-together at Sporties

Contributed by

'PISTOL PETE'

THE RSL Combination bowlers is a amalgamation of all clubs who roll together at Sporties in North Dubbo each Sunday.

There are 70 members, both female and male, and it is regarded as the most successfully-run mixed social bowls in Dubbo.

Last Sunday, 32 bowlers enjoyed the pleasant weather, down 14 members due to other commitments.

In competition John McKenzie, Ron McCauley, and Allan Stratford, kept their cool while Sue McCauley, John Kenned,y and Ruby Stockings, tried their hardest to upset them. It was seven-all after the ninth end, but a quadruple on the 10th, gave Ron, Allan, and John a lead which they kept. The final score was 14 to 11 even though the runners-up won nine of the ends.

In another game, Terry Millar, Leo Balstad, and Karen Green-

halge (who has returned after an illness) squared their game at seven shots apiece at the halfway mark, but Frank Armstrong (also back from an illness), Gordon Lummis, and Eric Satchell, fought-back to claim a narrow 16–14 win.

In further competition, Doc Livingston, Col Hume, and Gordon Scott, were smiling after claiming six of the first eight ands and banking 11 shots. Their opponents Di Hildebrant, Ken Whittaker, and John Colem were floundering with just two on the board. However, a second-half surge saw them take seven and win against the odds. A super-five provided the impetus for an 18–12 victory.

It was a similar tale next door where Chris Castlehouse, Steve Kelly, and Phil Knight turned a 13–5 lead into an 18–14 loss! Mary Perry, Colin Teale, and Pete Ruzans, fought-hard through the second half, restricting the others

Colts skipper books the grand final for Whitney Cup decider

to an additional shot, while they powered on to not only catch but take the win on the last end!

In another close game, Therese Gaio and Roger Sherwin were hard-pressed by Chris Strojny and Matt Quill who bagged five shots on the third to turn four in front. However, something changed, which allowed Therese and Roger to perform during the secondhalf, conceding only two ends in a more consistent display of bowling. The margin was slim, but their 16 to 13 win was hugely-enjoyed.

The boys versus the girls – Roger and Ian, against Vicki and Cheryl (her second time back this year) saw the boys open their quest and lead the first by five after eight.

The girls battled hard during the second half but, unfortunately fell three short, the boys winning 14 to 11; with eight ends each.

RSL Colts are the first team into this year’s Whitney Cup grand final, after a masterful unbeaten century from skipper Marty Jeffrey.

Colts will await this weekend’s other semi-final between second-placed CYMS and Newtown to see who they will meet.

CYMS go into this game after an outright win over South Dubbo and with the Western Zone Club Champions trophy already in the trophy cabinet.

Newtown took the Megahit T20 night cricket final, but have had a setback after losing their last match to out-of-contention Rugby.

Clint scores another Country Cup Qualifier with Listen to the Band

COONAMBLE-BORN trainer, Dubbo-based Clint Lundholm, was at short-odds to book one of his charges into the half-million dollar Country Cup Final at Royal Randwick, when he saddled-up nine horses in the quaillfiying race on Sunday.

The former jockey has been in great form with his ever-expanding stable and capped it with a crowd favourite, eight-year-old, Listen to the Band, who raced

home to make it four wins in a row in an incredible comeback. The horse had been out of racing for two years before Clint prepared its second coming. Bookmakers we’re not happy!

The under-the-radar Smooth Esprit finished third and is still in with a chance to qualify, while another Dubbo trainer, Brett Robb’s little speedster, Sizzle Minizzle, is also through to the big race after running home second.

Jason Dearmer and George BarrottBrown. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Julia Mannix and Mel Mertens

Matthew Webster Mudgee President

NSW SES Dubbo Unit

Our advertisers stay a step above the competition.

Dubbo Ladies Golf season 2023 opener

Thursday, March 2, saw the Dubbo Ladies golf contest their open day for the beginning of the season, with Kintyre Living the sponsors for the day.

A total of 69 ladies joined the field for a 4 BBB with the winners of the day being Mandy Wells and Bec McKay. Runners up were Jenny and Sue Orbell.

Visitors came from Duntryleague Orange, Warren & Narromine Golf Clubs.

A beautiful Chinese banquet was enjoyed after the golf.

Story contributed by THE CLUB. Photos by KEN SMITH.

Danielle Chapman (Kintyre Living), Mandy Wells & Bec McKay (winners) Gillian Hill, Kerrie Osborne, Sallie McGaw and Vicki Gainsford

From Warren Golf Club, Judy Ridley, Christine Trudgett and Bec McKay

Danielle Chapman (Kintyre Living) with Jill Fisher & Di DalyToni

Brown, Danielle Chapman (Kintyre Living), Toni Beatty and Helen Stratford

Back, Julie Rich and Carmel Sherlock-Foyster, front, Rhonda Richards and Maxine AndrewsCarmel Morely, Chris Reardon, Danielle Chapman (Kintyre Living) and Toni Beatty

Danielle Chapman (Kintyre Living), Jenny Furney & Susan Orbell (runners up)

Cycling Dubbo riders excel at another home- at run Junior State Titles

Contributed by DUBBO CYCLE CLUB

DUBBO was again recently the successful host to the NSW Under/9–Under/13 Junior State

Titles with the best age category cyclist’s from across the State all converging on Dubbo to contest the NSW track championships.

The two-day competition consisted of three events: an Individual 400-metre Time Trial, a Scratch Race; and the Sprint titles.

Riders travelled from all across the State including from Bankstown, Illawarra, Lidcombe Auburn, Bathurst, Orange, Newcastle, Wagga, and the ACT, to name a few.

During the competition, the keen on-track performances kept the crowd enthralled with the fierce racing of the Under/13’s to the skilfull riding of the Under/11’s, and the amazing enthusiasm of the Under/9 riders, showing the level of skill and what can be achieved by the very young.

Organisers and volunteers worked diligently to put on a great event and should all be highly-commended for their efforts.

Locally, a very well-prepared 10-rider contingent from Dubbo, won a total of six gold, two silver, and nine bronze medals between them; with the most prestigious award for junior cyclists – the Jackson Pascoe Memorial Trophy – being awarded to Dubbo’s Cooper Farr.

This Trophy is in memory of Jackson, who was involved in a fatal accident with his father in 2006, and is now the highest honour to be awarded in NSW Junior Track Cycling.

The trophy was presented by Chris Pascoe, Jackson’s brother, who was himself a multiple Australian Champion and a dominating and revered cyclist in his time.

Winners of the Jackson Pas-

coe Memorial Trophy is a virtual “who’s who” of Australian cycling with previous winners going on to represent Australia at Commonwealth Games and becoming world champions.

Cooper Farr won all three events convincingly and, amazingly, finished two seconds clear in the time trial to that of his nearest rival.

Tommy Tanswell took three gold in all three events in the Under/9 division; Scarlett Weeks took two silver medals in the time trial and sprint and also a bronze in the scratch race in a thrilling finale against Illawarra rider, Amelia Kirby.

An ever-improving Sidney Pickering also bagged three bronze medals over the weekend with Mary Lennox taking three bronze medals in a fine display, giving her a boost to an already amazing start to cycling. Mary likes to sit back and patrol her rivals and, toward the end of the race, strikes hard to attack and bring-about some outstanding results.

Will Tanswell, Euan Billsborough, William Weeks, and Robbie Lennox, all competed very well in their respective divisions with all setting PB’s (personal bests) over the weekend with positions justoff the podium.

Dubbo cyclists complemented some fantastic rides from other clubs, such as Illawarra’s Under/9 rider, Eve Alcock, who took three gold with the same for Wynter Bradshaw from Lidcombe Auburn club in the Under/11 Girls division.

With 25 consecutive years being awarded the hosting rights to the NSW Junior State Track Championships, it is a credit to the club on how smoothly and well-organised the event is run.

Full credit goes to all the officials and volunteers that assisted over the weekend to make it another huge success for Dubbo and the local riding fraternity.

Jason Farr, Euan Billsborough, Tommy Tanswell, Scarlett Weeks, Mary Lennox, Robbie Lennox, Tommy Lennox, Margaret Hazell (Life Member) William Tanswell, William Weeks, Cooper Farr, Sidney Pickering and Gus Dawson (Life member). PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED

Jackson Pascoe (Trophy winner) with Jason Farr (President)