Dubbo Photo News 07.03.2024

Profile

SARAH DRAKE

Where do you work? I teach voice lessons from my home studio and I teach musical classes for children aged 5-18 at Fierce Performing Arts.

Have you always lived in Dubbo? No, I haven’t always lived here. I grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio, in the States. From there, after I graduated university, I moved to Chicago and then on to New York City where I lived for nearly 11 years.

What are your favourite memories of growing up in your hometown? Some of my favourite memories of my hometown include the neighbourhood I grew up in. There were six houses who all shared the same backyard, all of us kids were around the same age, and we had a few acres to explore. We spent our summer days and nights roaming through pine trees, playing flag football and baseball in the field, and our winters sledding down the ‘big hill’. We developed a beautiful bond with each other and have annual reunions to catch up on our lives.

What do you like to do in your spare time? I love to get crafty and enjoy sewing (using my Cricut), cooking, and baking.

Do you have any hidden talents or special skills? Great question! I’m a really good navigator and can usually find my way back somewhere after only one visit. Are you a morning person or a night owl? Had you asked me this question about 20 years ago, I would have said night owl. These days, I am definitely up with the sun.

Do you have any pets? What are they and what are their names? I sure do! My sweet, senior Staffy named Coco.

What are you watching at the moment? Oh my, so many things… but current favourites are Homeland (yes, I know I am behind on the times here), The Wonder Years, the newest version, and Abbott Elementary. Have you read any good books lately? Yes… I started and finished Lessons In Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus in just two days. Fantastic read!

What music do you like to listen to? I really do enjoy most music, but if I am at home just tinkering about, I am usually listening to jazz.

What does the next five years look like for you? The next five years look to be exceptionally busy! I’m currently pursuing my Masters of Speech Pathology in addition to teaching voice lessons and musical classes, not to mention singing with my band Squeaky Sound Box, singing jazz music, vocal directing and performing in musicals with Dubbo Theatre Company. It’s safe to assume I will have very full days but I wouldn’t have it any other way, really.

PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/ LANA EATHER

Mayor staying nice and clean as staying and hundreds getting down and dirty for hundreds and 2024 Mud Run

Everyone enjoys getting down and dirty at Dubbo’s fantabulous Titan Macquarie Mud Run; well, not quite everybody.

Fitness buff and Dubbo Mayor, Councillor Matthew Dickerson, will be at the event on Saturday, March 16 at Regand Park, but strictly as a spectator!

“They run a great event, and the best thing is, they raise money that gets put straight back into the track and cycleway for a number of facilities,” Cr Dickerson said.

“It looks like a lot of fun, and there’s lots of people involved and they all have a great time, but I’ve never actually done it… I’ll also be on my bike at 5am on the Mon- day straight after, for the Tour (de Oroc),” he added, by way of apology.

By DAVID DIXON

Which won’t matter much in itself, as organiser extraordinaire, Rod Fardell, is expecting a near-record field for this unique mix of race, mud-fight, and local fundraiser’s, second decade.

“We’ve been going 11 years, and all that money goes back to the community in fitness gear for a number of different outdoor fitness areas,” Rod said.

“But it’s not just at Regand Park, we’ve provided components and equipment at Victoria Park, in the outdoor fitness area at Sir Roden Cutler, at the Ninja Course at Ollie Robins Oval,” he added.

The numbers for this one-off annual mess-fest, are also looking good for its latest iteration, Rod said.

“We’re already at about 700 people nominated, it’ll probably go as high as

1300 this year, we’re hoping, with our highest-ever number in the 1500s.

“Our last proper sign-on day for the event is on the 13th (next Wednesday); but we always have people that just come in and sign-on, on the day,” Rod said.

The Run, he adds, represents something different for everyone, with a range of race lengths – Elite Wave, The Titan, The Mini Titan, and Adult Short Course – seriousness, intensity, obstacles, mud-pits, and other various and messy challenges.

“I think it has a novelty appeal, there’s the river, the mud, crawling through tunnels, over obstacles, it’s a bit of everything for everyone.

“There’s containers, ice baths, the Fire Brigade will be bringing their water

cannon, it’s just that range of different activities.”

The communal nature of the event, the multifariousness of challenges, and the different attitudes with which competitors approach the Run, are also part of its chaotic appeal, Rod said.

“You can run as a serious competitor, or walk as a team, there’s a lot of different things to get through, and it also utilises the whole of the Macquarie River space,” Rod said.

“It’s just very different from what they would do on any other given day, and it’s simply great fun,” he added.

For more information on this Dubbo Photo News sponsored event, go to:  titanmacquariemudrun.com.au

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

LIGHT UP YOUR LIFE, AS DUBBO CENTRE HITS FIRST HALF-CENTURY

CHOICE of lighting for your new house or renovation can make all the difference to the feel, atmosphere, and enjoyment of your home, Matt McKay believes.

Owner of Dubbo Lighting Centre that is turning 50 this year, he says that the choice of lighting knows no limits in 2024.

“Lighting provides a number of important tasks in your home; it’s not just to see what you’re doing in the evenings, a lot of people saturate every room with lighting,” Matt said.

“It’s about ensuring that you get the best lights for each situation, lighting provides mood, ambience, a sense of atmosphere, it’s like a nice artwork or plant, you can use it to make your home stand-out,” he added.

New technologies also make your choices far more flexible than in the past, he explained.

“We’ve got literally tens of thousands of different options in our system, if we haven’t got it in store, we can get it.

“With LED now the dominant lighting form,

everything now is also energy-efficient with a minimal amount of electricity consumption, it’s now a big issue with our power bills the way they are,” Matt said.

There are even better technologies now on the way for your home lighting with computer software now integrated into many new homes, he explained.

“It’s not like the old days where you chose a globe that was either ‘pearl’ or ‘clear’ and that’s what you got; you can flick on a lightswitch, and it automatically sets an ambience with colour and brightness to fit your mood.

“You can also program your ‘Smart Home’ to now dim the lights down 50 per cent, say, as you’re getting ready for bed.”

With our long hot western summers, ceiling fans are also a big mover for Matt with a dizzying range of styles, colours, and performance on offer.

“They’ve become more and more popular; they’re our biggest mover, actually,” Matt concluded.

Light-up your life with the best advice from Faye and Kris, for some great new fixtures from Dubbo Lighting Centre.

PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/KEN SMITH

By TARA GREENAWAY (NÉE DUNLOP)

Farewell to a true gentleman “

With heavy hearts, we say goodbye to one of the last remaining gentlemen; Paul Dunlop – a husband, Dad, ‘Poppy’, and best mate.

A cheeky boy-turnedbusinessman at 17, Dad left school and started Grannys House Furniture to keep his idle hands busy, and to showcase his talent with timber and French polishing, and it has become a fixture of the community in Dubbo for the past 40-plus years. The store became synonymous with ‘good ol’ fashioned service’, attention to detail, and customer care –when bartering was still part of his trade. I’ve lost count of how many older customers would often ‘pop in, just to see Paul!’

Mum (Sharron) has been there from the beginning. As teens, I am sure they had no idea what their life would look like today from their flat above the Tamworth Street shops. They managed to build Grannys House from the ground up, held each other through financial strain, raised and nurtured six children, and stood tall against the ‘public outrage’ at their decision to paint our rendered two-story family home purple, hospital stints, becoming empty-nesters,

PAUL DUNLOP

December 15, 1964 – February 25, 2024

and then proudly watch as their family expanded to include 12 grandchildren.

Dad’s commitment to his work extended far beyond business transactions; it was rooted in a deep-seated appreciation for the sentimental value of each piece entrusted in his care. Generations of families returned to Grannys House, not only for the quality craftsmanship, but also for Dad’s genuine understanding of the

cherished memories tied to their heirlooms.

I feel incredibly proud to look at my siblings and see endearing parts of Dad reflected back at me. Ben is a dedicated family man and businessman who always gives it his all; Tegan can chat to anyone and make you feel comfortable and important; Brock is funny, is brave, and has the biggest heart; Kirby is considered and wise and gives her all

to everything without a fuss; and Piper is sensitive, has an otherworldly way with animals, and says it how it is. It doesn’t take much for any of us to get sentimental and teary, we have respect for where our money comes from, we take pride in our work, understand the importance of building community, we make friends wherever we go, we banter, and we’re guaranteed to be the loudest in the room. However I am glad that my dancefloor skills are a little more advanced than the ‘stomp the cockroach’, but it’s this part of Dad that we’ll miss the most!

For a boy that grew up fighting to live, who survived four open-heart surgeries, who found himself in hospital too many times to count, nothing kept him down. His brain was always on task, his phone was full of notes, ideas, and reminders but, before making any decision, he always checked in first with his ‘North Star’ – our mum because, at the end of day, he knew she had the ability to bring the finesse.

Until the end, he fought hard, he hoped hard, and he loved hard and, as a family, we feel privileged to have been there to squeeze his hands for the last time and say goodbye in our way.

May his legacy live on in all us, we love you so much!”

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK

Mar 7: Daniel J Travanti, US actor, 84. Rex Hunt, fishing guru/AFL player, 75. Virginia Bell , former Justice, 73. Sir Viv Richards, West Indian cricketer, 72. David Koch former Sunrise co-host, 68. Ivan Lendl, Czech tennis great, 64. Cameron Daddo, TV host, 59. Rachel Weisz , British actress, 54. Simon Pryce, actor/Wiggle, 52. Jason Bright, V8 Supercar driver, 51.

Mar 8: Mick y Dolenz , of ‘60s pop group The Monkees, 79. Carole Bayer Sager, US songwriter-singer, 77. Aidan Quinn, Irish-American actor, 65. Angie Hart, from pop group Frente, 52. Freddie Prinze Jr, US actor, 48. James Van Der Beek , Dawson on TV’s Dawson’s Creek, 47. Charli Delaney, former Hi-5 member, 44. Matthew Krok , child actor on Hey Dad!, 42. Jonathan Wright Gilgandra-born NRL player, 37.

Mar 9: John Doyle, aka Rampaging Roy Slaven, 71. Juliette Binoche, French actress, 60. Tony Lockett, AFL great, 58. Emmanuel Lewis, played TV’s Webster, 53. Danny Green, professional boxer, 51. Lucas Neill soccer player, 46. Matt Bowen, footy player, 42.

Mar 10: Chuck Norris, US martial arts man/actor, 84. Sharon Stone, US actress, 66. Prince Edward, royal, 60. Timbaland, US rapper, 53. Eva Herzigova , Czech model, 51. Carrie Underwood, US country singer, 41. Olivia Wilde, US actress, 40. Emeli Sande, British singer, 37. Mar 11: Geoffrey Blainey, historian, 94. Rupert Murdoch, media magnate, 93. Geoff Hunt, squash champion, 77. Sam Kekovich, former Australian rules football player/Lambassador, 74. Jerry Zucker, US filmmaker, 74. Bobby McFerrin, US singer, 74. Lisa Loeb, US singer, 56. Simone Buchanan, Debbie on Hey Dad!, 56. Adam Bandt, Greens politician, 52. Joel and Benji Madden, musical brothers, 45. Nikolai Topor-Stanley, soccer player, 39.

Mar 12: Barbara Feldon, Agent 99 on TV’s Get Smart, 91. Philip Ruddock , politician, 81. Johnny Young , hosted TV’s Young Talent Time, 79. Liza Minnelli, US actress/ singer, 78. Aaron Eckhart, US actor, 56. Steve Price, league star, 50.

Mar 13: Neil Sedaka , US singer, 85. George Negus, journalist, 82. Joe Bugner, boxing champion, 74. William H Macy, US actor, 74. Dana Delany, US actress, 68. Adam Clayton, Irish musician of U2, 64. Candice Warner, ironwoman and surf life saver, 39. Emile Hirsch, US actor, 39. Aaron Woods, footy player, 33. Lucy Fry, actress, 32.

Discover resilience and bounce back

By LANA EATHER

the Dubbo community to a free live webinar event at Dubbo Regional Theatre Convention Centre on Tuesday, March 19, from 6.30pm to 7.45pm.

‘Discovering Resilience’ is a presentation by the Resilience Project with renowned speaker Martin Heppell.

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity. It is a necessary skill for coping with life’s inevitable obstacles and one of the key ingredients to success.

Martin has conducted over 1700 presentations across Australia with corporations, elite sporting groups, and schools and their communities since beginning with The Resilience Project. This highly engaging presentation outlines The Resilience Project strategies: gratitude, empa- thy (kindness) and mindfulness and discusses simple ways to practice these approaches in our daily life.

The Resilience Project focuses on connection, purpose, kindness, emotional literacy and physical health to enable the topic of mental health to be an open discussion for all. ‘Discovering Resilience’ will share emotionally engaging stories to communicate positive mental health strategies and encourage happiness and resilience.

As spaces are limited for the Webinar at DRTCC, please register at: 123tix.com.au/ events/42299.

More details about The Resilience Project are available at theresilienceproject.com.au

showdetailsandbuyticketsat:

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Getreadytowitness"THEBEST SOFAR"–anexperiencethat promisestoleaveyoubreathless andyearningformore!

Orana Early Childhood Intervention in partnership with Dubbo Regional Council and Communities for Children invite

What’s a retirement village and why make the move?

THERE’S NO DOUBT that retirement villages are becoming an increasingly popular lifestyle choice for Australian seniors.

A recent study by the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute revealed that retirement villages are projected to house 7.5 per cent of people over the age of 65 by 2025, with the number expected to continue in an upward trajectory.

But what exactly is the attraction to retirement villages? How big are they, and what are they like to live in?

Are they worth the investment and the effort of uprooting?

We’re here to answer all your questions and more.. –

What is a retirement village?

A retirement village typically refers to a cluster of homes and shared facilities designed for people over the age of 55 years old.

Varying in size, villages might take the form of a handful of houses nestled together in a small, closeknit community, or they could be a sprawling village home to hundreds of people, with a wide array of shared facilities such as bowling greens, clubhouses, and swimming pools.

Who are retirement villages for?

Retirement villages are available to anybody over the age of 55, however the average entry age in Australia is 75, with most residents having ceased full-time work. They are a great lifestyle choice for

both couples and single people alike. Retirement villages are a wonderful place to live if you value socialising and connecting with other people at a similar age and stage of life –while of course maintaining your own personal and private space.

What are the benefits of moving into a retirement village?

Retirement living offers a wealth of benefits that set it apart from conventional housing. We’ve listed the most common five benefits often mentioned by residents:

1. Feeling part of a community

One of the strongest attractions to retirement living is the dynamic social scene that comes with it! Residents can enjoy the ‘community feel’ of the village through regular activities and events like movie nights, trivia, or fitness sessions, while also maintaining their personal and private space.

2. Feeling safe and secure

Residents often cite safety concerns as being one of the primary reasons for moving into a retirement village. Villages sometimes feature a range of security measures that provide peace of mind to residents, such as security cameras or sensor lights, as well as the informal support and ‘neighbourhood watch’ of the community.

As an extra safety measure in many of our BaptistCare retirement villages, we also have a monitoring connection system that allows people to call for emergency help at the push of a button, offering more freedom and confidence to live independently.

3. Onsite communal facilities

Many residents say that retirement

living often feels like a permanent vacation, and that the village offers a ‘holiday resort’ feel. There are often swimming pools and gyms, beautifully manicured gardens, bowling greens, and walking tracks to enjoy each day.

4. Freedom from maintenance chores

One of the strongest attractions to retirement living is relinquishing the majority of your home and garden maintenance, work that can really take a physical toll - particularly later in life.

5. Planning for your future needs

Many service providers have chosen to incorporate residential aged care within the retirement village estate so that residents requiring additional care can remain in the community.

At BaptistCare, for example, our Adaptive Living approach provides retirement village residents with easy access to our on-site home care and residential aged care so they always have peace of mind knowing there is available support, if and when they need it.

How do I contact BaptistCare?

To learn more about BaptistCare Kintyre Living, please visit baptistcare.org.au or call us on (02) 6884 2500.

BaptistCare has been trusted by thousands of Australians across the retirement living, aged care and community service sectors since 1944. While we are not-forprofit, there are a few things that we certainly are for: outstanding quality and a quest to truly make a difference, not just in our Retirement living communities, but in all communities.

Everyone loves a stretch limo, with this prestige service now returning to Dubbo for your favourite social occasions.

Transport specialists Chris up their new venture Outback Limousine Hire with a classic Ford Fairlane, featuring all the mod cons.

“I’m Dubbo born-and-bred, and moved back about three years ago, and this idea came up soon after we returned,”

Chris said.

“Tracey and I were talking

about some options, and this was the one we went with… it’s a 2005 model, seven metres long, and can take up to seven passengers,” he added. The vehicle, he says, is available for every social function one can imagine in the Golden West.

“We can do weddings, twen-uations, hen’s nights, buck’s nights, trips to wineries, race days out west, whatever people want.

STRETCH OUT CLASSIC LIMO BACK IN DUBBO

“We can take passengers to the local club, or all the way

down to Sydney, wherever or how long they want to go,” Chris added.

He said that the service is also the perfect way for locals to ensure that they have a ride home for a big day or night out, without having to worry about lifts or calling cabs or ride-sharing services.

“It’s a way for people going out to be able to relax without the hassle of worrying about their drinking or breath tests or how they are to get back home.

“It’s a great car, fully ap-

pointed with a cooler and wine glasses, so they can have a bubbly on the way if they want,” Chris concluded.

RURAL HEALTH MATTERS

Five Cheap Activities to Get Your Kids Moving

With the rise of digital entertainment, ensuring our kids lead active lifestyles is more important than ever. Engaging in regular physical activity from a young age offers social, emotional, intellectual, and health benefits. It’s recommended that children get at least an hour of physical activity each day, but this doesn’t have to happen all at once. Breaking it down into smaller, manageable chunks throughout the day can make it more achievable and less daunting for both you and your children.

1. Walk or Ride to School

One of the simplest ways to build physical activity into your children’s daily routine is by encouraging them to walk or ride their bike to school. This not only helps them get their daily exercise but also teaches them valuable lessons about responsibility and independence. If you live too far from the school for a full walk or ride, consider parking a bit further away and walking the rest of the distance.

2. Involve Kids in Activities Around the Home

Household jobs might not sound like fun, but they’re a great way to get kids moving. Activities like gardening, cleaning, and washing the car can be both productive and physically engaging. Turning these chores

into fun, family activities can help kids learn the value of hard work while keeping them active.

3. Ride or Walk Around Your Neighbourhood

Taking a family walk or bike ride around the neighbourhood is another excellent way to stay active. This not only benefits physical health but also strengthens family bonds and creates lasting memories.

4. Playground Adventures

Exploring local playgrounds is another way to increase physical activity and improves strength, fitness, and co-ordination. Bringing along a ball or frisbee can add variety to their play and keep them engaged for longer periods.

5.

Explore Your Region

Take advantage of the many available walking and bike tracks in the Central West and Western NSW. These often offer a variety of routes that are perfect for family hikes, providing both exercise and education about the natural world.

TIPS TO REMEMBER

Getting kids moving doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With a little creativity and planning, you can ensure your children reap the benefits of an active lifestyle without breaking the bank. Additionally, always remember to be sun-safe and traffic-aware when encouraging your kids to do more outside.

AUTHOR BIO

Dr Paul Roth is a local GP and Senior Lecturer at the University of Sydney School of Rural Health

35 Years of Bracken House

By LANA EATHER

When the doors of Bracken House open there is an immediate welcome with radiating smiles and a feeling of companionship. As Bracken House celebrates its 35th anniversary this February, there were similar sentiments of belonging and affection shared from residents, staff and families. In 1989 Ada O’Court was amongst the first four residents to grace the rooms at the newly opened Bracken House. Ada’s daughter Norah Primmer chose to move into Bracken House almost two years ago and reiterated: “I choose Bracken House because it has a delightful family feel. The staff are wonderful… caring and friendly. They genuinely care. My mother found a new lease of life here, and loved her time in care. I really enjoy the feeling of company, and all the activities that we have the opportunity to participate in. The ladies that run the activities are lovely, and always have new ideas.”

Beginning with 40 low-care beds, Bracken House added beds in 2004 and 2016, and is now a seventy-four-bed residential aged care facility. A

stroll through Bracken House is a delight with beautiful feature walls, copious natural light, lush courtyards and water features.

The 35th-year anniversary celebrations were well attended, with a range of performances and guest speakers. Guest speaker Robyn Fisher has worked for Bracken House and UPA for over 31 years, with the last 10 years at the UPA Lillimur Opportunity Shop.

“It is a wonderful place for staff and residents. It is a wonderful place to work, and there are plenty of opportunities within the organisation. My dad used to say, ‘if you love your work, then you’ll never work a day in your life’…. And that’s how I felt when I worked here.”

Robyn and Bracken House oldest resident Irene Smith cut the cake to celebrate the 35th year of operation.

Irene is nearing her own special occasion with her 101st birthday in June. “I have had a very fortunate life,’ said Irene.. I am very lucky to have a beautiful family, and that makes a huge difference. It makes life so wonderful.”

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT:

 Irene Smith, Robyn Fisher and Elaine Baillie cutting the cake at 35th anniversary

 Bracken House staff

 Ada O’Court’s birthday celebrations at Bracken House.

 Raj, Norah and Steph

 ORFAAI Youth Dubbo performers.

 Dugald Saunders (MP), Mayor Mathew Dickerson, John Ma son, Nora Mines, Kayla McGrath and Elaine Baillee.

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

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 you by Fletcher International Exports and Dubbo Photo News. To contribute ideas, email dubboworks@dubbophotonews.com.au

One year Agribusiness Cadet Program at Fletchers

By YVETTE AUBUSSON-FOLEY

OF dozens of entry-level roles available at Fletcher International Exports in Dubbo, university graduates can participate in a one-year agribusiness cadet program, learning all aspects of the meat processing or grain handling plants.

Thomas Jackson is a current recipient of the cadetship who joined the company in January this year, following 12-months jackarooing in the top end, and holding an agribusiness degree from the University of New England in Armidale.

“I did a Bachelor of Agriculture and majored in animal production, which is mainly breeding and property management, but I also studied meat technology and a few business units to broaden my education,” Thomas told Dubbo Photo News.

“It was at a careers day at university where I met Sam White from Fletchers’ export office, and I got talking to him about the cadet program, and it sounded like quite a good gig, so I thought I’d

come and give it a go.”

Thomas started at Fletchers working three weeks in cold fabrication, two weeks in the frozen load out and is currently doing logistics in the grain terminal.

“After I jump around to different areas, I think they’ll ask me what I enjoyed the most and give me the chance to pick where I want to go, but they’ll also talk to me about where they think I performed the best and discuss what I’m best suited too, so we’ll make a plan from there.”

Thomas has long been on a path toward an agribusiness career, having grown up on a small family farm between Narromine and Dubbo, and spending most of his life involved in the work of breeding animals.

“Being at Fletchers gives me the chance to see the other side of it all, and the finished product and to be involved with the business aspect of sending or exporting the meat away. My goal is to end up in export sales.”

Achieving that goal is a real possibility as Fletchers are renowned for giving employees across the business, opportunities to excel and progress in their chosen field.

“Fletchers are very clear on your ability to progress through the business, and if you’re willing to put in the effort, there’s a clear line for you to develop and improve and become a bigger part of the business, it’s all dependent on how much you’re willing to put in, as to how much you’ll get back,” Thomas said.

The former Kinross Wolaroi, Orange student has found that staff and colleagues are very friendly and if he has had questions or queries there’s always someone willing to help.

“I think that’s because it’s still a family run business, the Fletchers are still very involved in everything, they’re in the office daily and I think that plays a huge part of keeping it all welcoming.

To find out more about the Agribusiness Cadet Program at Fletchers International Exports call 68013100.

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

For more information contact 02 6801 3100

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

Fletchers International Exports’ Agribusiness Cade Program candidate Thomas Jackson.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Fresh smell of coffee in the morning — Josh branching-out with container café

By DAVID DIXON

BECAUSE there’s nothing quite like a freshly-roasted brew in the morning, Josh Angus of the Coffee Bean Roasting House, is branching-out.

Josh, whose newly-minted business, Summer Springs, is also the local agent for Neverfail Springwater, is also opening his own coffee outlet with the big launch sometime around Easter, he explained.

“We just wanted a brand name that was more personable to us, that was more local,” he explained of the change to Summer Springs.

“Also, we’re constructed our own little coffee outlet, a shipping container café, that we’re now completing the landscaping on at our place on Douglas Mawson Drive,” he added.

After a number of first places for his Columbian Qué chimba (local slang, “cool, fashionable”) blend at the Adelaide Show, he said that the new

shopfront café will cater for the true coffee aficionado, and will be much more than just a quick-cup coffee van.

“They say that coffee has more flavour nuances than wine does, like when they describe wine as having ‘lime-’citrus aromas’, it’s the same for coffee, we’ll be providing flavour notes,” Josh added.

“For us as coffee roasters then, this facility will be like a cellar door for a winery, a way of promoting our larger business, we’ll probably be opening after Easter” he added.

Always on the look-out for new ways to serve his clients, Josh has even developed a new line of family-friendly water dispensers for his Neverfail agency.

“We’ve designed about four of own water coolers.

“One I particularly like, is a more contemporary design that would look more at homer in a modern kitchen,” Josh concluded.

# DUBBO JOBS COUNTER 398

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

OPPORTUNITY OF THE WEEK

Automatic Packing Line Operators

Do you like:

 Using your practical mechanical

s kills and learning new skills? Ben Furney Flour Mills has a state-of-theart fully-automated packing line for you to master!

 A calm, friendly family business work env ironment that values excellence?

This pretty much sums us up. A family business, supplying the best ingredients, doing it well, and taking pride in it.

 Working with a team who recognise s and rewards growth and development? We’re off ering in-house on-thejob training along with external courses

and certifi cates to further your capabilities and remuneration.

If these things appeal to you, apply now!

Ben Furney Flour Mills is Australia’s leading family-owned flour manufacturer and distributor based in regional NSW.

Our operation has been established for over 30 years and our business is continually growing to meet the needs of clients.

For more details on what this role includes and the key abilities you will need, go to www.seek.com.au/ job/73792502

JOIN THE MISSION

DUBBO WORKS WANTS YOU!

WIf 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 Street, Dubbo.

If ha job fa T Dubbo

Susan Wade

Where do you work?

Dubbo Regional Council.

my parents came from, and it felt like I had gone home.

paying job? Working after school in a news agency.

What’s your job? Governance team leader. I look after the councillors, council meetings and civic events amongst other things.

be involved with many people from the community and the community awards such as Dubbo Day and Australia Day awards recognising the volunteers in our Local Government Area.

Why do you love your work? Because of the team that works for council, and getting to

What is one of your favourite memories? One of my favourite memories was when I visited Hamburg, Germany, for the first time. This is where

If you could work with any person, who would it be and why? I have worked with and currently work with many people whom I’d like to work with again. Why? Because of the knowledge you get working with so many varied people.

What was your first

Three words your friends would use to describe you? Considerate, caring, loyal.

What attributes do you admire? Loyalty, honesty and empathy. What actor would you have play you, in a movie about your life? Sally Field.

Kasey Stockwell, Connor McLeod, Emily Santilli, Josh Angus and Chris Briggs. PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/KEN SMITH

Local news and local jobs at risk following Meta's Facebook announcement

❚ Comment by ANDREW SCHREYER, COUNTRY PRESS AUSTRALIA PRESIDENT

AUSTRALIA’S largest organisation of newspaper publishers has attacked the announcement by Meta that it will no longer negotiate deals with publishers once current agreements expire.

Country Press Australia represents more than 230 regional, rural and outer suburban publications across the nation.

The organisation was advised through an email from Meta last Friday afternoon that “our company priorities have substantially shifted in the past year and, as a result, we will no longer be making Facebook News Tab available in Australia”.

Meta also confirmed “this doesn’t affect our agreement with Country Press Australia which will continue in accordance with its terms and conditions until it expires”.

In a subsequent meeting on Friday afternoon between Country Press Australia and Meta it was made clear that Country Press Australia’s agreement with Meta would not be renewed.

This is a devastating blow to our members who are party to the agreement. All are publishers of regional and local public interest journalism.

Meta has been providing grants to Country Press Australia publishers which has provided vital sustainability.

There will be publishers who close the doors and won’t be able to continue supporting their communities with news in the wake of this announcement. These regional and local publishers are the major, and in most cases sole, providers of local public interest journalism in their communities.

In times of trouble and in emergency situations, such as during floods and in major bushfire events, the local publisher’s Facebook page is never more important or appreciated by people in our communities.

Meta’s actions undermine our democracy in the way the company displays such disdain for the work of the news industry. It also undermines public confidence in the media sector.

The most popular Facebook pages in most regional and rural communities are those of the local news publishing company, yet Meta says people don’t go to Facebook for news or political content.

What about in times of bushfire and floods or when the chips are down and someone in the community needs help? Local experience would suggest otherwise.

If, by Meta’s own admission, Australians don’t go to Facebook for news or political content, then the federal govern-

ment should heed the advice of Meta and immediately cease advertising on Meta’s platforms.

Sadly, jobs will definitely be lost as a result of Meta’s decision, but it’s hard to put a number on this.

Given the already well-documented challenges our industry faces (major cost increases for newsprint, ink, energy and the decline in federal government advertising spend), this announcement will force many publishers to confront the issues ahead of them and cut staff.

The reaction from our members in the aftermath of Friday’s announcement has been one of deep concern, alarm and even anger.

The federal government must act to give assurance to our industry and to support the democratic infrastructure that is the newspaper industry. And it needs to move swiftly, decisively and with purpose.

We need government to support the news industry and invoke the news media bargaining code.

Our government must also do what it can to assure Australians that the government values the news industry’s role in our democracy to mitigate disruptions to the news industry.

Facebook reaped the benefits of our members’ unique local content for many years, and has paid those local and regional publishers for only the last three years and will now not renew their agreement with Country Press Australia.

A democracy cannot function without a healthy news sector, and this is now heavily at risk in regional and local communities after Meta’s decision.

It is important that the federal government responds swiftly to this decision and considers all possible action including designating Meta under the News Media Bargaining Code and other options available to them and the ACCC.

It is vital that news media is adequately compensated for the content that Facebook has been able to build their business from over many years and ensure a strong and robust news media industry which is vital for a healthy democracy.

It is also vital that the federal government ensures strong support of the industry now more than ever before and ensures the News Media Assistance Program (News MAP) is finalised urgently. * This publication is a member of Country Press Australia

ALL AT SEA CEREMONIAL SUNSET AT CEREMONIAL SUNSET AT DUBBO CELEBRATES NAVY WEEK

By DAVID DIXON Photos by MEL POCKNALL

Dubbo’s a long way from the ocean, so it gladdened the hearts of many wayward old salts in the region, when Royal Australian Navy (RAN) sailors from HMAS Harman in Canberra, took Navy Week 2024 on the road.

As part of this tour, the Shrine of Remembrance in Victoria Park was recently the venue for the traditional “Ceremonial Sunset” bringing down of the flags, carried-out each evening for Australian naval ships at harbour and at shore establishments.

The regional tour – engaging with local schools and performing the Ceremonial Sunset at a number of towns – is the first to take in Dubbo in some time, and is designed to raise awareness of our first service, which traces its roots back to 1788.

The base at Canberra, is one of a range of naval facilities that are located away from the coast due to geographical, strategic, and practical purposes, and it plays a central communication, liaison, and administrative role for the RAN.

The full-Dress naval tradition involves the lowering of the ship’s pennant (flag) at sunset with the event in Dubbo drawing an appreciative crowd for one of our most-ancient of seafaring traditions.

HMAS Harman Commanding Officer, Commander Glyn Hunter, witnessed the ceremony that traditionally includes the “Beat to Quarters” with a volley of shots fired, “echoing the practice of saluting the knell (or ringing of the bell) of the parting day”.

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE: 6801 4000

COUNCIL SNAPSHOT DUBBO.NSW.GOV.AU

YULDEA COMES TO

Australia’s leading Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander performing arts company, Bangarra Dance Theatre, will bring their powerful production of Yuldea to the Dubbo Regional Theatre and Convention Centre for one night only, Saturday 16 March at 7.30pm.

Find out more at drtcc.com.au,by visiting the Box Office or calling 6801 4378

Image Credit: Daniel Boud

Community Conversations are designed to be a platform for our engagement team to actively listen to the diverse voices that make up our local government area.

We invite you to dive into our latest projects and initiatives that hold particular interest to you. Visit our Pop-Up on Thursday 7 March from 10.30am-2.00pm atTamworth Street Shopping Centre.

Applications for the SPARC Support Grant Program are open. Applications will be accepted until Monday 15 April 2024. This grant provides funding to community organisations and creative practitioners to deliver projects and programs that align with the actions of Council’s SPARC Cultural Development Plan.

For further information visit dubbo.nsw.gov. au/Community-Groups

COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONSSPARC SUPPORT GRANT PROGRAMNSW SENIORS FESTIVAL

The NSW Seniors Festival will be held from 11 – 24 March 2024 with a range of events across Dubbo and Wellington to celebrate seniors in our community.

Events include the Seniors Festival Expo in Dubbo, Councillors BBQ in Wellington and brain training at the Dubbo and Wellington libraries. For more info visit dubbo.com.au

DUBBO REGION

‘Guinea Pig Club’

Local World War II vet one of pioneer plastic surgeon’s triumphs

By DAVID DIXON

RECONSTRUCTIVE plastic surgery is one of the miracles of modern medical science, with a local World War II veteran one of the first recipients of this revolutionary treatment.

George Henry Taylor MBE was treated by legendary New Zealand surgeon Dr Archibald McIndoe who trialled many of his theories on badly injured RAF pilots and aircrew in England during the War.

These brave men – who underwent a range of experimental treatments to often horrifying injuries and burns – formed the legendary ‘Guinea Pig Club’ of which Taylor was Australian head.

The Guinea Pig Club was a social and support group for the airmen who had all sustained catastrophic burn injuries and been operated on by McIndoe in his specialist burns unit at the Queen Victoria Hospital in East Grinstead.

“It has been described as the most exclusive club in the world, but the entrance fee is something most men would not care to pay, and the conditions of membership are arduous in the extreme,” Sir Archibald McIndoe said later.

The club was formed in July, 1941, around a bottle of sherry in a hospital ward, when a group of six airmen decided to make their recovery camaraderie official.

The club began with 39 members, including McIndoe and other hospital staff, as a social and drinking club but, by the end of the war, it had grown to 649 members, and had become a mainstay of the airmen’s recovery process.

Many of the injured airmen

would undergo several operations, and remain in recovery sometimes for years; the club acted as an informal kind of group therapy and support.

The requirements of membership to the Guinea Pig Club were that you had to be an Allied airman who had suffered burn injuries in the war and had undergone at least two operations by McIndoe at the Queen Victoria Hospital.

During the Battle of Britain, it was mainly RAF fighter pilots who sustained the type of burns severe enough to end up in McIndoe’s care.

At this time in 1940, they made up most of the membership of the club but, by the end of the war, most members were from RAF Bomber Command.

However, injured pilots from all over the Allied forces would come to be treated by McIndoe, so effective and revolutionary were his methods. There were members from New Zealand, Australia, Canada, America, France, Poland, Czechoslovakia and Russia.

Before McIndoe’s innovative treatments in the early 1940s, those with extensive burns and injuries requiring treatment simply died.

Luckily, this all changed under Sir Archibald. He realised that the airmen who were burned but crashed into the sea tended to heal better than those that had crashed on land. With this in mind, he began giving patients saline baths, with excellent results.

It was the experimental nature of McIndoe’s treatment that led the men to christen themselves the Guinea Pig Club, also refer-

ring to themselves as “McIndoe’s Guinea Pigs” and “McIndoe’s Army”, even having their own song, sung to the tune of Aurelia by Samuel Sebastian Wesley.

McIndoe’s approach to healing these men was holistic. There was beer allowed on the wards, socialising was actively encouraged, and McIndoe intentionally hired experienced and attractive nurses who wouldn’t flinch at the sometimes-horrendous sights that would confront them on the wards.

The club was meant to last the duration of the war, but the bond between these airmen was so strong that it lasted until 2007, when the club had their final reunion. The last president was Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh.

Taylor himself had trained in Australia before joining Bomber Command – where he was a wireless operator on a RAF Wellington bomber – when the aircraft crashed at an English airport on a training exercise in September, 1943, suffering third-degree burns to his face and hands.

The attached article from October, 1951, in the Dubbo Liberal and Macquarie Advocate retells Taylor later, as Australian Secretary of the club, returning to the hospital for a meeting and

reunion.

His story followed invaluable research by local historian Patrick Bourke who also detailed the family’s strong links to the Dubbo district.

“George Henry Taylor was the grandson of George Henry Taylor, who was known as ‘The King of Dubbo’,” Patrick revealed of the former mayor.

“George Henry Taylor senior died during 1917, the same year that Dubbo High School was established; George Henry Taylor junior was born in 1918 in Dubbo,” he added.

The family also enjoyed strong ties to local public education, which exist to this day.

“Taylor went to Dubbo Primary and Dubbo High, where he completed the Intermediate Certificate.

“The boy and girl dux of Dubbo High each year were subsequently presented with the GH Taylor Medal, which he presented, whilst he was alive – this tradition has continued at Dubbo College, Senior Campus.”

Bourke also recalled Taylor’s happy return to the district that

he loved.

“After the war he joined his father Harold W Taylor in a car dealership in Dubbo; in 1974 George received an MBE with the citation, ‘Physically handicapped’.

“By all reports, George Henry Taylor junior was a modest and humble person. I am sure that a number of your readers would probably remember him.”

Statue of legendary New Zealand plastic surgeon Sir Archibald McIndoe. His innovative treatment of seriously burned Allied pilots and air-crew led to the formation of the 'Guinea Pig Club', of whom local war hero George Henry Taylor MBE was a member. IMAGES: PUBLIC DOMAIN

TOP: The attached article from October, 1951, in the ‘Dubbo Liberal and Macquarie Advocate’ retells Taylor later, as Australian Secretary of the club, returning to the UK for a meeting and reunion.

ABOVE: 'The World News', 1948, reported on the revolutionary surgery performed on members of the Guinea Pig Club.

It’s empty shelves aplenty, as pineapple thins go the way of our beloved beetroot

By DAVID DIXON

IT seems that the great beetroot shortage reported in Dubbo Photo News recently is only the thin edge of the wedge…

Reader Elizabeth Mackenzie said that there’s a whole range of tinned fruit and vegetables no Ionger on our supermarket shelves.

“I just read the article on Page 8 (DPN, February 15) about the lack of beetroot; I too, had noticed the bare shelves,” Elizabeth said.

“Along with beetroot, is the lack of Golden Circle Pineapple Thins,” she added.

Being a good-old Australian with classic tastes she has been looking in vain for the canned pineapple for her husband’s upcoming 80th birthday party. After many fruitless visits – both figuratively and literally – she took to the phones to find an answer.

“I contacted Woolworths querying the situation; don’t even go through their AI (Artificial Intelligence) app, it is useless; unless you want to keep going around in circles, constantly being asked the same question!

“It kept asking ‘what product is it that you want’, and I kept saying ‘pineapple thins’; I must have wasted a good quarter of an hour on it,” she recalled.

On eventually getting to speak to an actual human, Liz had slightly better luck.

“The operator couldn’t find the item in their ‘stocked’ catalogue, however, if you Google this item on-line, it is listed on Woolworths but marked ‘Out of Stock’.

The Woolworths operator said she marked this item seeking re-entry into Woolworths stores following my query; she was a lovely girl but kept saying, ‘I just can’t find it!’; and ‘It’s not on the list’,” Liz recalled.

She believes that the supply chain lockdowns associated with the pandemic, gave too many tinned food suppliers the chance to terminate less-popular lines favoured by older Australians, such as beetroot and canned pineapple.

“The Golden Circle Pineapple Thins variety of pineapple tins seem to have disappeared prior to or around COVID; it was great for home-made hamburgers, sandwiches, and in salads – not something the American owners, would probably appreciate.

“Interestingly, I haven’t been able to get it at my local Coles in Wellington, either, but you can buy it at IGA or in bulk tins from some wholesalers… I’ll probably be getting it fresh and slicing it myself for my husband’s birthday,” she decided.

Mystery and comedy at this

Mystery and comedy fans: it’s still not too late to get your tickets for Dubbo Theatre Company’s latest production, 'The 39 Steps'. PHOTO: DTC

The 39 Steps. From one of the most famous spy-thrillers ever written, the show is a hilarious and madcap tribute to legendary movie-maker Alfred Hitchcock.

The story is a spoof of the Master of Suspense’s classic movies from North by NorthWest; Vertigo, Psycho, The Birds, to Dial M for Murder, and Rear Window, director Christine Bray said.

The laugh-a-minute comedy has been one of the long-

est-running shows in London’s West End and has a special twist – the 150-odd characters are all played by a handful of performers!

Mixing up much-loved thrillers with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python and a pinch of ‘Allo, ‘Allo and you have… The 39 Steps, one of live theatre’s most intriguing, most thrilling, most riotous, most unmissable smashes!

The 39 Steps is on at Dubbo Regional Theatre at 8pm on Friday, March 8, and at 2pm and 8pm on Saturday, March 9. Get your tickets at:  www.drtcc.com.au

PHOTOS

FOCUS

THUMBS UP!

Thumbs up to the fantastic management and staff at Hannaford Tyres in Dubbo. After lots of drama with our vehicle recently, we went to Hannaford’s who gave us exceptional customer service. We cannot fault them or recommend them more highly!

Thumbs up and grateful thanks to Jaden Fraser of East Coast Supplements for the generous printing sponsorship of the Dubbo Garden Club annual program. Our club members appreciate this gift very much.

Thumbs up to Dunn’s Mowing for an excellent job done on my lawn. I highly recommend their services to anyone wanting their lawns done.

Thumbs up to Sophie Halpin at Dubbo Dental. Sophie has been so supportive, kind and understanding of my phobia of dentists and always does everything possible to ensure she explains everything and makes my visits virtually pain free. I have been seeing her for almost ten years and she is amazing.

Thumbs up and thank-you to the emergency services in Wellington. Police, Fire, Ambulance, Country Energy and Redfern Power Solutions arrived rapidly, and they were all very quick and efficient in dealing with the situation when my parents garage caught fire. Thank -you also to the Wellington community and my parents’ surrounding neighbours for their support.

 Send your Thumbs Up via email to photos@dubbophotonews.com.au, mail to Level 1, 178 Macquarie Street Dubbo NSW 2830, or phone 6885 4433.

THE most recent get-together for the Horizons Village Monthly Sausage Sizzle included welcoming new residents, with family and friends also dropping by.

Some 75 residents came along for this much-anticipated social celebration put on by the community’s Men’s Shed, with the continuing success of the event due to the sterling work of a number of volunteer residents.

ADAM’S RIB

Dubbo Indigenous artist wins art prize with “washer” woman

IT’S always good to start the year with a win… and former Dubbo local and Indigenous artist Adam King has done just that in a recent competition held at a gallery near his current home north of Sydney.

“I just entered my first art exhibition of 2024. It was held at The Art House in Wyong, Central Coast. The exhibition was based on the body or something to do with the body,” Adam explained. His creative triumph was a stunning metal representation of the female form, made largely from an everyday trade item that we all use: metal spacers.

“I did a female torso made out of steel washers, approximately around 300. I won the ‘torso’ section, which is a good start for the year,” he added.

Fay and Les Brookfield

Judy Kelly with her daughter who was visiting

PICTURED RIGHT: Welcome aboard; newly-arrived resident, Brian Cooper, with Greg O’Brien, enjoying the camaraderie at the most-recent Horizons Village Sausage Sizzle. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

AGENT’S CHOICE

DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL ON THE FRINGES OF NARROMINE TOWNSHIP

36 JONES CIRCUIT, NARROMINE

This 3-bedroom property is ideally located just minutes from town and next to the Narromine Showground and racecourse. Partially zoned for development into large residential blocks with the balance being zoned farmland, this little rural gem offers great opportunity to have your own space to run some sheep and cattle or a few horses yet still have all the conveniences of town just minutes away.

READ ABOUT IT: P29

FOUR EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS TO COMBAT DRAFTS IN YOUR HOME

House

Tips

ly combat drafts and enhance your home’s insulation.

1. Seal Windows and Doors with Caulk

Drafts often find their way in through small cracks and gaps around windows and doors. A simple yet effective solution is to use silicone or expanding foam caulk to seal these openings. Silicone caulk is durable and flexible, making it ideal for areas that may expand and contract with temperature changes. It’s important to regularly inspect these seals and touch them up or replace them when they begin to deteriorate.

2. Door Sills and Weatherstripping

The bottom of exterior doors is a common site for drafts. Installing door sills or weatherstripping can provide a solid barrier against the cold. Consider the addition of a door sweep – available in rubber, foam, or thick fabric – to cover the gap between the door and the threshold for even better insulation.

3. Roof Cavity Insulation

Your roof cavity plays a crucial role in the overall insulation of your home. Insu ffi cient insulation here can lead to signi fi cant heat loss. Ensure that your roof cavity is properly insulated with materials like mineral wool or cellulose fi bre. These materials not only reinforce existing insulation but also help to maintain a stable temperature through-

ing barrier. Fix the film to the inside of your window frames with double-sided tape, and then use a hairdryer to shrink it into place, eliminating wrinkles and ensuring a tight seal.

Additional Tips:

For a more permanent solution, consider double-glazing your windows. This can be more costly but provides excellent thermal insulation.

Ensure that your home’s walls and floors are also well-insulated, as drafts can occur here too.

Draft excluders can be used under doors and on window sills as a temporary and decorative way to stop air leaks.

Reflective radiator panels can prevent heat from being lost through walls and instead reflect it back into the room.

By employing these strategies, not only can you enhance your comfort, but also significantly reduce your heating costs. Most materials needed for these solutions can be found at local hardware stores, where you can also seek further advice tailored to your specific needs. Remember, addressing drafts is not only about warmth in winter but also about creating a more energy-efficient home all year ‘round.

Attending open homes is a crucial step in the property purchasing process, offering an opportunity to assess whether a property aligns with your needs. Here are some tips to simplify the house-hunting journey: Market Knowledge: Begin online research to comprehend available properties including asking and sold prices. Approach your preferred lender to determine your budget.

Define Needs and Wants: Narrow down your preferences, considering factors such as location, property type, minimum number of rooms and essential features. Use these criteria to filter search results.

Itinerary Planning: For Saturday open homes, create a list of properties to inspect, noting the time and location. Map out the itinerary to prioritize and manage overlapping inspection times.

Inspection Toolkit: Carry essential tools, including a notepad for notes, a phone with a camera for personal pictures and snacks and water for sustenance. Consider bringing a friend or family member for a second opinion.

Post-Inspection: After inspections, agents may seek feedback. Indicate your interest in properties that appeal to you and communicate your specific requirements for future notifications.

Use open homes to identify ‘the one’ or create a shortlist of potential homes. If a property stands out, consult with your lender regarding a potential offer.

Have a question? Contact Karen Chant on 0448 191167 or email karen@chantandco.com.au.

HOUSE FOR RENT

$400 PW - Located in the heart of Narromine fully renovated, 3 large bedrooms, Home with open plan, loungeroom & kitchen. Bus stop directly out the front, which goes to Dubbo. Walking distance to Narromine shops.

Dishwasher, Air-conditioning, built-in wardrobe in all rooms, big bathroom with double vanity, double shed, big backyard & 7 foot high fences all the way around for privacy, 6 plus car off street parking within the fenced area.

Do not apply if you don’t have bond, advanced rent payment & real estate references ready to go.

Bunninyong Public School Kinder Dragonflies

With Ms Duffy and Gabby

Kinder Dragonflies have flown into school with enthusiasm and excitement. They have been forming new friendships, learning new skills and adapting to school life.

We have been having a ‘roarsome’ time learning all things dinosaurs through our play-based learning.

Kinder Dragonflies have been busy colouring and creating, exploring board games and using their imaginations to bring dinosaurs to life.

Proudly sponsored by

KiDZ ONLY!

WHAT KIDS SAY

Logan Eade

How old are you? 4

What are you good at? I’m really good at finding bugs, the most dangerous spider is in sydney and it is a funnel web

What’s your favourite food?

Nuggets with chicken inside, a chicken is an animal and I love them.

Do you have a favourite story or joke? A crocodile crossed the road and got squashed by a dump truck and the dirt tipped on him.

What makes you laugh? When Papa tells me jokes

Who is your favourite character from a book? The wizard in Mickey Mouse and the grumpy monkey with the scary lion

Who’s the boss in your family?

Papa and Mummy. Mummy waters the plants.

Which zoo animal would you like to have as a pet? A monkey and my other pets are dogs and birds that fly around.

If you could talk to animals, what animal would like to

speak to? A monkey, their sounds are funny (Logan makes monkey sounds)

What’s your favorite colour?

Black

Do you have a best friend?

Fletcher

If you could have any job in the world when you grow up, what would it be? A man like my Papa and a builder like me Papa, I always want to be like him.

Do you have a favourite song?

The song that sounds like a monkey (Logan makes more monkey sounds)

Who is the oldest person you know? Poppy because he shrunk. He was big once but got so old.

OLLIE HANNAM

Have a great 6th birthday on March 22nd

KEVIN DICKINSON

KAWHII

Turned 8 years old on 6th March!

Happy 9th b’day for 13th March!

MATHEW ROGERS

KNOW A BIRTHDAY CHILD THIS MONTH?

SUDOKU FOR KIDS

What

ARE YOU KIDME?DING DING

FSH

Why

Send in a photo, details and a short birthday wish. myentry@dubbophotonews.com.au Entries must be in by 5pm Friday the week before.

Is your photo featured here? Donut King Orana Mall has a FREE kids doughnut to help you celebrate!

13 on March 30th. We love you Mathew xxx Mum, Dad, Hannah & Damien au eek before. ured her ? a Mall has a to

Bring your copy of Dubbo Photo News to claim your Birthday gift. ws

Patient

Doctor

Because it was

Doctor, doctor, I’m addicted to brake fluid. I’m sure you could stop at any time.

ACROSS

1 Landed property (6)

4 Before chapter one (9)

9 Purchaser (5)

10 Eager; anticipatory (9)

11 Offspring (5)

12 Most pungent (9)

9-LETTER

No. 218

26 Speaker in defence of an issue (9)

27 Mature, develop fully (5)

28 Old fashioned pen holder (8)

29 Short-sighted (6)

DOWN

1 Erected once more (7)

2 Bottomless gulf (5)

3 Underwater missile (7)

5 Torn (6)

6 Relating to the surrounding area (7)

7 Source of fruit for wine-making (9)

8 Landed properties (7)

10 Printer brand (5)

14 Conglomeration of fabric scraps (9)

16 Paraguayan monetary unit (7)

17 Fix (a problem) (4,3)

19 Ridge (5)

20 Demolish (7)

21 Iceberg’s victim? (7)

22 Sight (6)

25 Eagerly accept (3,2)

13 Tropical storms (8)

15 Song’s words (6)

16 Style of the Middle Ages (6)

18 Conclusive trial (4,4)

23 Ancient Greek goddess (9)

24 Cleave (5)

No. 218

WORDFIT

3 LETTERS AIM ALE AMP ASH ATE AYE BAR BET CUE DIP EAT

EVE GAB GUT HEM ICE IDS KEN MRS ODE OUR THE TNT

4 LETTERS AMID BAUD BELT BEST BIDE BRAY CAPS GARB HEAL HOOT

No. 128

MOOT MOPS TEST TOMB USES

5 LETTERS ABUSE ACUTE ADAPT ALPHA AMASS ASIDE ASSET AURAL BAKER BASIN BROTH DEVIL DOGMA EAGLE EASEL ELOPE ERECT GRACE ISLES ISSUE ITCHY MARES MENUS METRE MOUTH NESTS ODOUR OLIVE OUSTS

PAPAL RINSE RIOTS RIPEN ROMPS SCENT SLEPT SNAGS STEER STOKE TERSE THERE TIRES TONNE

Crossmath

UPPER USUAL WAGER

6 LETTERS CUTEST HANGAR OUTWIT SERIAL

7 LETTERS DREAMER EROSION IMPLORE

No. 127

Insert each number from 1 to 9 in the shaded squares to solve all the horizontal and vertical equations. Multiplication and division are performed before addition and subtraction.

NOTICED ORPHANS PREPAYS

8 LETTERS DRAMATIC NURTURED

PARAKEET THEATRES

11 LETTERS COPPERHEADS PREROGATIVE

Each

ee break a eebrebbrebreak k

1. Who is the creator of comic strip Calvin and Hobbes?

2. Myocardial infarction is the medical name for what bodily occurance?

3. Quentin Tarantino’s (pictured) 2021 debut fiction book is a novelisation of which of his films?

4. Belmopan is the capital city of which Central American country?

5. In which decade was the Rubik’s Cube invented?

6. Lion’s mane is one of the largest species of which marine animal?

7. The geometric shape torus can be colloquially described as what kind of shape?

8. The annual music festival Coachella is held in which US state?

9. What is the main flavour of the sweet spread kaya?

10. Novelist and poet James Joyce was born in which country?

by Tony Lopes

by Jeff Pickering

ARIES: It feels like time is flying. You love the finer things in life, which could lead you to explore high-end stores and restaurant s for a touch of luxury. Take the opportunity to revitalise your wardrobe and adopt a new style.

TAURUS: You’ll overcome your fears and apprehensions to pursue your passions. Your remarkable creativity will guide you in the right direc tion. This will allow you to create a masterpiece. You’ll receive some form of compensation for it.

GEMINI: You’ll be in high demand by everyone this week. Your popularity will reach new heights with work colleagues or those close to y ou. You’ll expand your customer base and become the go-to person for any business because of your efficiency.

CANCER: After prolonged negotiations, you might get the green light to buy a proper ty or finance a project. Sort out some undesirable friendships. Any form of change will be beneficial to you.

LEO: You’ll feel a deep need to recharge your batteries and take a step back from your worries. Take the time to reconnect with your inner child and contemplate the beauty of life so you can reignite your passion.

VIRGO: Adjusting your goals may help you reach your full potential. Whate ver direc tion you choose, you’ll put your heart and soul into achieving your goals. Your romantic side will come out in a couple’s getaway.

LIBRA: If you’re in a new relationship, it could cross your mind to ge t married to mak e your relationship official and put your mind at ease. At work, be careful not to let your emotions influence your negotiations. This will avoid any confusion.

SCORPIO: You’ll have the opportunity to participate in a training course that will open new per spectives and bring about a better qualit y of life fairly quickly. You must break the monotony in your relationship. Taking a walk hand in hand could do you a world of good.

SAGITTARIUS: You’ll perform a heroic act, such as saving someone from a delicate situation or lending a sympathetic ear. At work, you could find yourself leading a team without asking. This could lead you to become the pillar of the entire business.

CAPRICORN: You’ll hear about a birth in the family. You’ll discover a property oppor tunity that suits your needs and budget. At work, don’ t hesitate to embrace success. If you struggle with doing that, work on changing your mindset.

AQUARIUS: You’ll feel the need to get a new vehicle. You could play the role of interpreter to decipher an unfamiliar message. You’ll debate with people who don’t have a good command of your native language. You’ll be extremely curious this week.

PISCES: Much to your surprise, you’re likely to find the solutions to your financial and sentimental problems. A promotion with a substantial pay raise could be on the horizon. This will bring you great joy.

The luckiest signs this week: Taurus, Gemini and Cancer

INSANITY STREAK

THE SPATS

THE TOONS’ VIEWS

Postcard 13.

Fig Tree, Sydney Botanic Gardens

I love walking through the Botanic Gardens in Sydney. The old trees that have been planted there are incredible to see.

This one is one of my favourites. I call it my Hobbit Tree. If you have read The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien, you will know exactly what I mean. If you haven’t let me encourage you to do so.

Joanne Austen Brown

Local Mardi Gras Garden Party

Contributed by EMMA BROWN

On Saturday night the LGBTQIA+ community took to Oxford Street in Sydney for the annual Mardi Gras parade.

Locally, Dubbo was not left in the dust.

For the last two years I have organised Dubbo’s own community pride event, where LGBTQIA+ folks and allies were able to mingle and watch the parade on the big screen.

Thank you to everyone for attending, and a bigger and better pride celebration is the plan for 2025!

U3A Dubbo Chapter AGM launches another big year

By KEN SMITH

The AGM of U3A Dubbo Chapter was held last month.

Mayor Mathew Dickerson was very pleased to be able to attend, and congratulated the committee on the great work that they had done in the previous years.

With his love of all things tech, the mayor was very impressed with the ‘Clevertouch’ screens.

Annette Priest gave him a demonstration and spoke about ‘Member Wizard’, which – when set up – would make all administration work so much easier.

Dubbo’s own community pride event. PHOTOS: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/KEN SMITH

Signe, Marcelle and Kathryn Michelle, Chrissy, Emma and Emma Allison, Zillah and Melody

Members in attendance at the recent U3A AGM with DRC Mayor Mathew Dickerson.

Swimming fun and Meet the Teachers

By KEN SMITH

Loving the positive community energy and fun at Dubbo West Public School, Dubbo Photo News captured the smiles at their Meet the Teachers event and their annual swimming carnival.

Michael and Mason

Jacob, Mr Mat and Taine

Back, Lachlan, Jessie and Isiah, front, Nate, Lachlan and Rory

Layton, Lincoln and Colleen

Mr O, Mrs Smith, Mr Keenan and Miss Harcourt

Miss Tonkin and Mrs Dowton

Lionel and Beverly

Ned, Amity and Ruby

Lacey and Katerina

Josie, Markeel, Jaxon, Bridget, Mason and Jaleal

Jace, Amy Lee, Jordon and Lionel

Kamden, Venetia, Nicholas and Melissa

Jody, Jeanette, Jess, Lisa and Lachy

Alexis, Airlie and Tahan

maintenance deadlines. As we are a meat processing facility, your role will require you to come into contact with animal waste and by-products, so this role is not for the squeamish. An advanced knowledge and all round ability to carry out a variety of fitter, turner & machinist work will be required.

Main duties include:

•Set up and adjust machines and equipment.

•Fit and assemble parts, tools.

•Dismantle faulty tools and assemblies and repair or replace defective parts.

•Set up and/or operate hand and machine tools.

In this role you will be responsible for general mechanical maintenance that includes mechanical repair on a day to day basis as well as ensuring downtime is minimized. In addition, you will develop and implement systems that will maximise the efficiency of and minimise cost of utilities. You will also recommend and develop initiatives that will enhance productivity, efficiency and profitability of the plant.

Experience and Qualifications Required:

For more information contact 02 6801 3100

To apply for this role, you will need to be a licensed Fitter and Turner with experience in a maintenance role preferably within a manufacturing environment. Please complete and submit a Fletcher International Exports application form for your application to be processed. You can find this on our website at http://www.fletchint.com.au/careers/application-form

ON THIS WEEK

Croquet: 8.15am for 8:30am start, Tuesday, Thursday. Croquet courts, Brisbane St, North Dubbo. Kate 0409 927 140, Lillian 0429 471 921

Dubbo Film Society: Film screenings for members and casual members at Dubbo RSL Theatrette, 1:30pm. Two films, Sunday 25 February. Refreshments served at intermission.

COMING SOON

Above Board Gamers: SECOND and FOURTH Thursday of the month, 6pm, Devil’s Hollow Brewery. Alan 0432 278 235 Dubbo & District Family History Society: Presents Share Your Story.

Dugald Saunders will tell stories of the unexpected discovery of his Indian heritage, and his journey from childhood in Mendooran to Dubbo MP. Everyone is welcome to join us on Friday March 15 at 2pm in the Drama Room at WPCC. $8 towards room hire and refreshments.

Wongarbon CWA: Fabulous Fifties Cavalcade. Come and join us for an afternoon of fashion and fun. Saturday April 6, Wongarbon Community Hall, 2pm start. $30 per head Bookings essential call marjorie 0427 669 104 or Pamela 0407 821 909

THURSDAY

Above Board Gamers: SECOND and FOURTH Thursday of the month, 6pm, Devil’s Hollow Brewery. Alan 0432 278 235

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

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

Bingo - South Dubbo Veteran’s & Community Men’s Shed: 11am-12.30pm, West Dubbo Bowling Club. Barry 0439 344 349

Coffee, Craft and Chat: 9.30am-12pm, Gospel Hall, Cnr of Boundary Road and Taylor St. Anne 0428 425 958

Croquet: 8.15am for 8:30am start, Tuesday, Thursday. Croquet courts, Brisbane St, North Dubbo. Kate 0409 927 140, Lillian 0429 471 921

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

CWA Wongarbon Handicraft: SECOND

Thursday of the month, Liz 0401 174 883.

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

Marjorie 6884 5558

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 dur-

ing these hours, Western Plains Cultural Centre Community Arts Centre, Cnr Wingewarra and Gipps St Heart Support Walking Group: 12.30pm, (also Tuesdays), Ollie Robbins Oval, Cnr of Bligh Street. Supports gentle exercise promoting healthy hearts, 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: 5.45pm (in summer), Sandy Beach amenities block. Come and try dragon boating, your first five paddles are Free. info@outbackdragons.com.au, Robyn 0427462504

Talbragar CWA: Members are reminded of the February luncheon on Thursday 8, at the South Dubbo Tavern commencing 12 noon Please let Ronda know on 68885231 if you are able to attend.

Wellington Arts and Crafts: 10am-3pm, Small Hall in the Anglican Church grounds, Wellington, variety of crafts, activities and workshops offered. 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. Central West Makers Place: 12pm-6pm, South Dubbo Veterans and Community Men’s Shed, Cnr Palmer and High Streets. 3D printing, robotics, pottery, and more. 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. Further Information Barb 0427251121

Dubbo & District Family History Society: Presents Share Your Story.

Dugald Saunders will tell stories of the unexpected discovery of his Indian heritage, and his journey from childhood in Mendooran to Dubbo MP. Everyone is welcome to join us on Friday March 15 at 2pm in the Drama Room at WPCC. $8 towards room hire and refreshments.

Dubbo Nepalese Christian Fellowship: 6.30-8pm. 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. Jim Jupp, 0438414888.

Dubbo View Club cards and games: Friday, 1pm Dubbo RSL Club. March 15, Phone Shirley 0427822874 for enquiries.

Lunchtime Prayer Group - Dubbo Anglican Church: 1-2pm in Brotherhood House, 158 Brisbane Street. Bring your lunch Narromine Food Barn: 9am-11am, Lowcost groceries and FREE fruit, vegetables and

bread with any purchase to people in need.

Ken Rumble on 0414 477 365

Spinning and Weaving: 10am, at Dubbo Arts and Craft Cottage, 137 Cobra Street. Anne 0408 891 225

Tai Chi at U3A: 10am, at the Community Arts Centre, Western Plains Cultural Centre, 76 Wingewarra Street. Richard 6888 5656

Urban Tribe: 2pm, with dancing, music, singing, caring and sharing. 0459 762 702

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

CWA Gilgandra Market: FIRST Saturday of the month, 9am-1pm, Cakes, fruit, pickles, plants and more! New stall holders are welcome. $5 per table, proceeds to CWA. Contact Hilda 0427471270.

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

Embroiderers - Dubbo: 10:00am- 3:00 pm (also see Tuesday listing) All are welcome

Macquarie Regional Library

Contact Patricia 0439846400

Family History Society (Dubbo & District): 10am to 1pm, volunteers on site during these hours, Western Plains Cultural Centre Community Arts Centre, Cnr Wingewarra and Gipps St.

Ladies Luncheon: 12 noon, Saturday 2nd March. Dahab restaurant, Brisbane Street, opposite the catholic church., Dubbo. Call Bev 68845401 by Feb 29 if you are interested.

Outback Writers Centre Hub Meeting:

FIRST Saturday of the month, (Feb-Dec), 10am-1pm, 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, Dubbo Pipe Band Hall, Cnr Darling and Wingewarra Sts. 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: 12.30pm, 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 Bible Study: 9.30am, Sabbath School and children’s/youth Sabbath School, 11am, Divine Service. Cnr Cobra and Sterling Sts. dubbo.adventist.org.au

Talbragar CWA: Monthly meetings are held on the first Saturday of each month from March to December they commencing at 2pm each month but December at 11am. More information is available from Ronda on 68885231 or 0419275223.

Transition Dubbo Food + Film Night: For information about future events, contact to Peter 0439 091 767

Wellington Lions Preloved Book Fair: 10am to 2pm, Western Gallery opposite Cameron Park, Preloved books, CDs and DVDs, now also Jigsaw Puzzles!

Wongarbon CWA: Fabulous Fifties Cavalcade. Come and join us for an afternoon of fashion and fun. Saturday April 6, Wongarbon Community Hall, 2pm start. $30 per head Bookings essential call marjorie 0427 669 104 or Pamela 0407 821 909

SUNDAY

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

Australian Kite Flyers Society: SECOND Sunday of the month, 10am, Jubilee Oval. 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. Join acoustic sessions 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 Film Society: Film screenings for members and casual members at Dubbo RSL Theatrette, 1:30pm. Two films, Sundays 25 February, 26 May, 29 Sept, 24 Nov. Refreshments served at intermission. All-day Film Festival, five films, Sunday 28 July commences 9:30am.

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

Mindful Crafting for Adults: 12.3pm2pm, learn new or improve existing skills. Experienced and beginners. For the next session date, contact Dubbo Library on 6801 4510

Orana K9 Training Club INC: New intake class every 7th Sunday starting 4/2/24.. ( daylight savings start time 8.45am Eastern Standard time 9.45am ) at Katrina Gibbs Oval Macleay St Dubbo(opposite netball courts) Contact Reg 0428849877 or Dianne 0429847380

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’. St Brigid’s Catholic Church, 198 Brisbane St. Jack 0418 605 041/Sally 0427 829 807, 1300 222 222 or www.aa.org.au

Amnesty International Dubbo: SECOND Monday of the month, 5.30pm-6.30pm, St Brigid’s meeting room. 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 313 “City of Dubbo” Squadron: : 6pm-9.30pm, Army Barracks (Cnr Kokoda Pl and Wingewarra St). NOW recruiting, 13 to 18 years, rewarding activities.

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 start, Wesley Community Hall, 66 Church St. Fun, affordable dance for girls/ladies, 4yrs and up, all fitness levels. dubbocityphysie@ live.com.au

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 VIEW Club: lunch, 11.00am, Monday March 18, Dubbo RSL Club. Bookings and Cancellations and enquiries by Friday 15th March before 10am. Phone Beth on 0431 290 274. Guests and new members welcome.

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.

Narromine Community Women’s Shed: 10am -3pm, (also Wednesdays), The Wesley Centre, 138 Dandaloo Street, Narromine. Leona 0487 200 987

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

RFDS Dubbo Support Group monthly meetings: FIRST Monday of the month, RFDS Visitor Experience, 5pm, 21 Judy Jakins

Drive, Dubbo Airport. 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 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 St.. Laney 6882 4680 or laneyluk@gmail.com.

Walter T. Grant Seniors Social Club: 9am2pm, Wesley Uniting Centre, Church Street. $6 per day. BYO lunch. Pre-lunch cards and games, post-lunch bingo. Jan Miller 0418 255 217

TUESDAY

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

Croquet: 8.15am for 8:30am start, Tuesday, Thursday. Croquet courts, Brisbane St, North Dubbo. Kate 0409 927 140, Lillian 0429 471 921

Dementia Sing Out Choir: Weekly 11am12.30pm, David Palmer Centre at Old Lourdes Hospital site, entry on Cobbora Road. Anne Gemmell 0481396404.

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

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 start, Holy Trinity Hall, Brisbane Street, Dubbo. Fun, affordable dance for girls/ladies, 4yrs and up, all fitness levels. dubbocityphysie@live. com.au

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: Meet on the second Tuesday of each month in the Masonic Village Hall, Darby Close at 10am contact Annemieke Neville 0432305103.

Dubbo Embroiderers: 9:30am- 3:00pm

SECOND and FOURTH Tuesday of the month (also see Saturday listing) Dubbo Bridge Club, Elston Park, Bultje St Dubbo. All are welcome. Contact Patricia 0439846400

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, Bob Ellis 0428217752

Dubbo Prostate Support Group: For information about future meetings, Elizabeth 0408 682 968

Dubbo RSL Euchre Club: 7pm, for 7.30pm, Dubbo RSL, 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.

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, starts with 2-4 years Sparkles class, Auditorium at St Mary’s Primary School. See the Orana Physical Culture Facebook page

Rotary Club of Dubbo Macquarie:

12.30pm - 2pm, 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.

Rob on 0417 497 187

Spinning Group: Every third Tuesday 10am -4pm Dubbo Art and Craft Cottage, 137 Cobra Street. Contact Julie 0418 976 663

South Dubbo Veteran’s & Community Men’s Shed: 9am-12pm, Cnr of High and Palmer Streets. New members welcome

Toastmasters Club: FIRST and THIRD

Tuesday of the month, 7pm-9pm, Dubbo RSL Club, Brisbane St., 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, Sharna 0438 693 789.

Alcoholics Anonymous Dubbo: Meet

Wednesday 7pm (1.5hr) – ‘Topic‘ meeting

St Brigid’s Catholic Church meeting rooms, 198 Brisbane St, Dubbo Please contact Ian 0447 176 590

Or contact 1300 222 222 or www.aa.org.au for info on meetings.

Ballroom Dancing: Wednesday 7:309:30pm $10. Wesley Hall Cnr of Carrington Avenue & Church Street, Dubbo. Graham Woods 0447 885 603

Blood Cancer Support Group: FIRST

Wednesday of month, 10.30am-12pm, Venue changes each month. Louise or Emma 0412 706 785

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. Anne 0428 425 958

CWA Dubbo Evening branch: FIRST

Wednesday of month, 7pm, 3 Frith Street. Barb 0409 159 556

CWA Narromine: SECOND Wednesday of the month, 5.30pm, USMC. Carolyn 0427747478

CWA Terramungamine: SECOND

Wednesday of the month, 10am, Dubbo

RSL Club. Barb 0427 251 121

CWA Wellington Branch: Second Wednesday of Month, 10:30 a.m., Wellington CWA Rooms, Warne St, Wellington. Contact Marion on 0429033836

Dementia Friendship Group: SECOND Wednesday of month, 10:30am, Western Plains Cultural Centre, Creo Cafe, Wingewarra St. Anne Gemmell 0481396404. Dubbo Arts and Craft Cottage: 10am4pm, 137 Cobra Street. A large range of handcrafted gifts made by members available. Contact 6881 6410 Dubbo and District Family History Society event Linda Barnes will show you how to begin discovering your family history. Four weeks, Wednesdays March 6, 13, 20 and 27.

10.30am to 12.30pm at Community Arts Centre $7.50 per session for DDFHS members, $15 for non-members

To reserve your place phone Linda on 68878284 or email martinandlinda@gmail.com

Dubbo Bobbin Lacemakers: THIRD Wednesday of the month, 10am-3pm, Arts & Crafts Society Cottage and Craft Shop, 137 Cobra Street. 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. Contact Denise 0433 623 842 or Julie 0428 821 829

Dubbo Electric Vehicle Interest, Owners, Users & Supporters (DEVIOUS) group: FIRST Wednesday of each month, 12pm to 1pm, Western Plains Cultural Centre café. Chris 0409 321 470

Dubbo Garden Club: 10am, FIRST Wednesday of month, Garden gatherings with morning tea. Contact, President, Annette Storer, 0429 828 882

Dundullimal Dubbo Support Crew Inc: FOURTH Wednesday of month, 10am, Dundullimal Homestead. Support Homestead functions. 6884 9984, 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. Contact Colene 0400422335

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 month, Geurie Masonic Centre. Please email secretary@lodgeallanstuart416.org.au

Macquarie Intermediate Band: 6pm, school term, Band Hall, Boundary Rd. 6884 6686/info@macqcon.org.au, Dubbo District Band 0422 194 059 dubboband@gmail.com

Narromine Community Women’s Shed: Mondays and Wednesdays, 10am -3pm, The Wesley Centre, 138 Dandaloo Street, Narromine. Leona 0487 200 987 West Dubbo Rotary: 6pm, Club Dubbo, Whylandra Street West Dubbo

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.

‘I went down to the Crossroads…’

By KEN SMITH

Crossroads Bar, right next door to the Old Bank Music Shop in Macquarie Street, Dubbo, is the latest musical adventure for Mick and Gloria Picton.

Dubbo Photo News attended their new Wednesday night ‘Jamming at the Crossroads’ where solo, duo and bands can get some stage time, and all ages are welcome.

Crossroads Bar is a most welcome new addition to Dubbo and regional NSW’s ever-growing music industry.

I went down to the Crossroads and – if you’re after a fun night kicking back with friends, your favourite brew and some fine tunes – well, you should too.

Anthony Gemmell

Bede Isbester and Mick Picton

Damien

Alfred, Sheena, Dave, Gloria and Mick

Kyle and Shane

FROM BURRABADINE TO CHINA:

A LOCAL cricket fan is making waves for the ‘gentleman’s game’ all the way from the Central West to the Middle Kingdom!

The Cricket Library podcast, hosted by Matt Ellis, has secured the number one position on the official Apple cricket podcast charts in China.

This remarkable achievement highlights the podcast’s growing international appeal and underscores its position as a leading platform for cricket enthusiasts worldwide.

What sets the Cricket Library podcast apart is its unique origin story with young Matt hailing from the quaint village of Burrabadine, just outside of Dubbo.

Matt initiated the podcast in 2012 with one humble intention: to offer additional coverage of Australian domestic cricket, with the podcast initially comprising the best segments from Ellis’s weekly radio show on Bucketts Radio in Gloucester.

In 2020, the Cricket Library podcast underwent a transformation, pivoting towards longer-form interviews with over 60 guests, including such cricketing legends as Greg Chappell, Kepler Wessels, Daniel Sams, Maitlan Brown, Mol-

ly Stran, Jimmy Adams and Michelle Goszko, to name a few. This refresh aimed to inspire a more profound love for cricket, resonating with audiences globally. The podcast’s episodes have consistently trended at the top of the Apple cricket podcast charts in

various countries, showcasing its universal appeal. Recent successes include interviews with former Australian leg spinner Peter McIntyre, which reached number one in the Netherlands, and discussions with chats with cricket luminaries like Gra-

Schloey tried to outfox the

Ducks

ham Manou, Erica Kershaw, and Katie Mack, claiming the top spot in Brazil. Interviews with Ryan Harris and Jamie Siddons, bagged places one and two in South Africa with an episode featuring Tim Ludeman, trending at number one in cricket-crazed India.

Looking ahead, The Cricket Library podcast is set to launch a new season of interviews in May, with episodes scheduled fortnightly during the winter. Guests are yet to be announced, but if history is anything to go by, there are some inspirational stories to share.

Reflecting on the podcast’s ethos, Matt said: “The Cricket Library podcast aims to provide a platform for individuals to share their stories of how cricket has positively impacted their lives.

“Our guests range from elite cricket professionals to enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds, reflecting the sport’s universal appeal and unifying power,” he added.

The Cricket Library podcast has been ranked in the top five cricket podcasts on the Apple podcast charts in numerous countries, including Australia, Brazil, France, India, Japan, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sweden, UAE, and the United States.

By GEOFF MANN

NEWS from the pool this week was Brian Scloeffel’s failed attempt to sneak around the timekeepers in the trophy race.

“He might be cagey but after a few months on crutches his artful dodger skills let him down,” according to Dave Sparkes.

“It’s good to have him back on the pond”!

After Schloey broke along with Kallie and Peter Allen, Pete Hargreaves grabbed the 25m Freestyle from Jack Allen who’s swimming into firm for another year with the Fishies.

In the 2 x 25 m Breaststroke relay Nic Johnstone and Pete H broke allowing Mark Scullard and Judy Walsh to cash in with a win.

Peter Allennshowed his allround skills in the Medley, finishing ahead of Neil Harris, Sparkesy, Kallie M and Mike “the Dragon” Twohill.

Dick Whitfield was proud to claim the Jokers Ink Trophy Race.

Age championships start this week so best all Ducks bring their “break out” certificates!

Pete, Mary, and Al were the big winners on a sultry day

Contributed by ‘PISTOL PETE’

A total of 45 bowlers enjoyed conditions that were markedly sultry after rain the day before with plenty of chatter, commentary, and some friendly sledging across the greens.

Phil Knight and Pete Ruzans were the skips; Phil with Sue O’Dea and Therese Gaio, while Pete had Mary Perry and Allan Stratford. Pete’s side led by two before running-away to a 19-7 victory, claiming six of the last eight ends. It was the award-winning performance of the morning!

Chris Castlehouse, Glenis Han-

agan, and Gordon Scott, also showed their abilities during the first eight ends against John Zed –a new member – Rob Pfeiffer and Ian Humphries. Winning most of the ends, including with a quadruple, saw Chris, Glenis, and Gordon up by seven which they took-out to 12 after a quadruple on nine. They had already sealed it by then with the final score, 20-10.

Di Hildebrant, Annette McMillan, and Bryan O’Sullivan in their game chalked-up nine shots from six ends leaving Paul Martin, Ross Pharo, and Tod O’Dea on two at the turn. The second half was much of the same – 18-9 the win

to Di and co.

Once again a “swinger” was required to make-up the numbers with Gary Huggins the man having to lead Ray Strawhan and Alex Rae as well as Steve Kelly and Graham Ross. Gary was always going to be a winner, and it was with Steve and Graham that he took it 17-10.

Eric Satchell and Trish Gosper bagged a five on end six, but Cheryl Storch and Ruby Stockings went to the break leading by two after taking six ends. Then Eric and Trish cracked the system wide open, slotting another quintuplet, three sets of triples, and a double,

for an eye-catching 23-14 victory.

In a contrastingly low-scoring and tight match, Leo Balstad, John Kennedy, and Col Cottee led Sue McCauley, Roger Sherwin, and Trevor Tink, by eight-three at the turnaround before completing a 14-8 win.

Gordon Lummis finally returned to the Sundy bowls, last week with John Davis and John Cole, however Pat Sherwin, Vicki Hummel, and Mick Strawhan, spoiled his party! Eight-all at the break with “the John’s” taking just two ends and Mick’s mob only two on the way home.

The numbers count when you

get them, and so it was for Gordon and his J’s, who put six into the bag on end seven to win 16-13.

In a nail-biter, Kevin Scott, Pete Bennison, and Anthony Coe came from behind to overtake Ron McCauley, Mel Giddings, and Al Andriske by 18-16.

They rolled-out to a three-shot lead after eight then, out of the blue, Ron and his mates bagged two fours and took the ascendancy. In a final twist, a quad on the last saw Kevin, Pete, and Anthony, win 18-16.

This week, there’s a break for the State Championships.

The Cricket Library Podcast, hosted by local Matt Ellis, has secured the number one position on the official Apple Cricket Podcast charts in China. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

THE SUNDY BOWLER

Western Under 16s Rams top the pool before semis before semis

By GEOFF MANN

by MEL POCKNALL

THE Western Rams kicked-off the day at Cale Oval, racking-up a second successive half-century to top their pool ahead of semi-finals on Saturday week.

As it was, the 16s would have been unbeaten throughout the whole pool stage, except for a late collapse in Round One and, once they found their feet on Saturday, raced in many spectacular tries.

Fullback Jai Jordan from Orange scored three brilliant four-pointers and kicked five goals for a personal tally of 22 points; half Callum Miskell, winger Jai Ashby, and powerhouse second-rower Ravi Tulevu, added doubles as the men in green-and-white put aside the visitors from north, south, east and west of Tamworth.

Unfortunately, the Under 18s went down 30-6 in their game, while the Opens had to overcome some late withdrawals before dropping their chances of another Championship finals match, losing 14-12.

Photos

Pumped up Rams fall agonisingly SHORT

By GEOFF MANN

Photos by MEL POCKNALL

DESPITE losing a couple of key players mid week, the Western Opens showed plenty of character before losing 14-12.

“We were certainly primed to make the ‘74 boys proud but it just wasn’t our day,” coach Kurt Hancock lamented.

“Credit to the Northern boys who overcame the long journey to book a semi spot.”

Narromine Jets and the local Council received plenty of plaudits for the presentation of the day and welcome afforded the Western Division players from 1974.

PRE-GAME

Before lining up for team photos, Western Rams legends, or the family representatives for those that had passed on, presented team guernseys to the 2024 squad.

Class of ‘74 - Nelson Smith (Wellington), Peter Frew (Dubbo CYMS), Johnny King (coach), Rhonda Laing (Representing her late husband Peter Walkom) and Geoff Lousick (Wellington)

Right: Peter McDonald Cup leading point scorer 2023, Jeremy Thurston

New Bathurst Panthers half Josh Merritt with a late aoffload

Half-century get-together recalls legends of ‘74 and “TV Ted” Ellery

By GEOFF MANN

WHEN a group of knockaround blokes from the bush gathered at a hotel in North Sydney for the very-first Amco Cup rugby league knockout – named after an Australian jeans manufacturer –many of them didn’t even know each other.

A few months later, they had become some of the best-known names in one of the Australian sporting world’s greatest underdog stories.

It all began with Coach Johnny King; a Gilgandra-born speedster who was to score tries in each of his seven premiership wins during St George’s 11-year reign in the NSWRL competition and was named in the Australian Team of the Century.

In 1974, he was appointed to weld a team of rough footballers from as far apart as Cobar, Coonamble, Coonabarabran, Dunedoo, Narromine, Dubbo, Orange, Bathurst, Cowra, Canowindra, and Lithgow.

That “Kingy” was able to achieve this was a tribute to his passion and the drive to instil what he had been taught under legendary mentors, Ken “Killer” Kearney and Norm Provan at the Dragons.

“I wanted my boys to come-out breathing fire!” John said.

“We spent a lot of time developing aggression in attack and defence with the aim of getting up in the faces of ‘the big noting city boys and New Zealanders,” he recalled.

Selectors Vic Smith (Cowra), Freddy King (Parkes), John “Boora” Lovatt (Nyngan) and Don Handebo (Coonamble) answered his plea after the Western team lost 23-2 against Monaro in the first round of the Country Championships.

“I wanted big forwards and blokes that could tackle and wouldn’t take a backward step!”

He got his wish and for game one against Auckland, a virtual New Zealand test team, only six of the original side from earlier in the year, was retained.

Nelson Smith went from fullback to the second-row; future Test star, Terry Fahey, who became known as “The Redfern Express” after being picked-up by South Sydney, was moved from centre to wing; along with Norm Armstrong, “the Cobar Flash”; Rod McDonald; and Frank Fish.

The new team saw tough Bathurst St Pats five-eighth, Paul Dowling, paired with Bob Pilon (Macquarie/Orange CYMS) in the halves; Geoff Lousick was chosen as lock, and huge men like Dennis Ritchie (Narromine), Greg Fearnley (Cowra) Dave Abbott (Dunedoo) and Ken Campbell (Baradine) joined Milsom and Fish in a tough-tackling pack.

The revamped Western team also had an X-Factor in the team.

Vic Smith, who was awarded his Western Division Life Membership badge at the Golden Jubilee Dinner on Saturday night, recalls the final selection meeting.

“I told them, we needed someone who could make an impact,” he recalls.

“They all scratched their heads, so I threw in a bloke from Lithgow who was tough, hard-as-nails, and wouldn’t take a backward step,” he added.

It was here that a legendary figure who came to represent the unlikely fairytale run the team had, was born.

“Ted Ellery is the bloke,” Vic told his fellow selectors.

He’ll get everyone revved up –on both teams and in the crowd – but he’s only good for about 10 minutes a game!” he smiled.

Well, from the moment he joined the fray in the mud at Leichardt Oval against the Kiwi boys, Ted had them all going.

“There was an ad on tv at the time which featured a bloke in filthy overalls,” Vic recalled.

He threw them into a washing machine with a soap called Persil; when the overalls came-out gleaming white and he went back to work, the tag line was, ‘He’s Foreman Material!’.”

That’s how it was with Ted, Vic smiled.

“The big fellow came-on gleaming in his white shorts, green and white guernsey, and with a ‘Lithgow suntan’ and ripped into the international pack the first time he touched the ball.

“Ran straight up the guts and set the tone.”

The “Bald Eagle” was given the moniker, “TV Ted” by the end of that game, and the nickname stuck as a sporting legend was born.

This name came from Ray Warren and Kerry Buckridge in commentary passing comments like ‘his Mum’s got a whirlpool’ and ‘he’s foreman material’!

Ted Ellery epitomised the spirit of the 1974 team and, when he left us in 2008, his spirit transcended the team and he is remembered fondly for his guts and irrepressible enthusiasm – and his uncanny farm animal impersonations!

At Cale Oval on Saturday, the “Men of ‘74” presented guernseys to the Western Rams team of 2014. It was an emotional and historic occasion.

At the celebratory commemorative dinner at the RSL, those players who could make it, mixed with the families of their teammates. Together they made a wonderful bunch.

Bob Pilon, Barry Rushworth, Dave Kent, Nelson Smith, Peter Frew, Geoff Lousick, and their families joined Vic Smith and his son for dinner.

The families of players who have died, including David Abbott, Peter Walkom, Paul Sams, and Dennis Richie, also joined the celebrations while Anne Milsom was unable to attend on behalf of her late husband, Des.

Dave Ross, trainer Bill Baker, and Manager Cole McDonnell, were others remembered as were selectors King, Lovett, and Handebo.

Apologies were received from Billy Rose, Greg Fearnley, Paul Dowling, the captain of the team, Rod McDonald, Trevor Simpson, Ken Campbell, Frank Fish and Ian Toohey.

Sadly, ill health prevented the great author and journalist Ian Heads from joining with the people whose stories he had collated. However, his good friend, Geoff Armstrong, who published “The Night the Music Died” spoke glowingly of the journey they had embarked on ten years ago.

Thank you to all those blokes, to Johnny King, Vic Smith and to NSWRL who had the gravitas to recognise the occasion, especially Tim Del Guzzo, the current Man-

The 1974 players with family members of past teammates PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED

Vic with newly pinned WD Life Membership badge and son Anthony Fresh applauds; Vic sheds a tear

The two Geoff ’s - Mann and Armstrong

NRL Western Rams manager Tim Del Guzzo and Pathways Director Dave Elvy

Peter Walkom and family

Geoff Armstrong speaking on the AMCO Cup

Denise Pilon and Edward Campbell ( son of Ken)

Dave Abbot with family

Gap year fun for Molly as she aces tennis coaching

OnceMolly Quilty finished her HSC studies last year, the sports-loving 18-year-old headed straight to Paramount Tennis Club.

“I’ve been playing tennis since I was 10, and obtained my Community Coaching Certificate,” Molly said.

So, I thought I could expand my skills in the gap year before heading to Uni,” Molly smiled.

She is now currently working 14 hours a week at Dubbo Tennis Academy alongside head coach Brad Williams.

“I’m absolutely loving it; I get to spend time with kids and adults who are new to the sport, as well as those looking to extend themselves.

It’s a really good mix,” she enthused.

Molly spends some time doing admin work at the club and also helps set-up the courts for after-school and weekend sessions and tournaments.

By GEOFF MANN Photos by MEL POCKNALL

Throughout her senior years at Macquarie Anglican Grammar, the young all-round sportsperson – she also loves swimming and competed at State titles and played for Dubbo 18s in last week’s Touch State Cup – completed her Certificate II, Sport and Recreation, and will shortly attain her Certificate III Sport Coaching.

“These courses are very good for my personal development and create opportunities to meet different people, especially kids and their patents,” Molly said with maturity.

“I’m heading to Newcastle to study Speech Pathology and Occupational Therapy next year, so these certificates will add to my CV (resume) and might open doors for work to support me living away from home,” she added.

Molly had no hesitation naming Helen Magill, one of Australia’s highest-qualified coach-

es based in Parkes, and former Australian No 1 tennis player, Casey Delaqua, as her role models.

“They are both passionate and incredibly supportive.

“They’ve always got time for young players and bring knowledge and skills to our coaching and training sessions,” Molly added.

Molly is one of 14 coaches at the Academy with the team providing one-to-one as well as group session tennis coaching.

“We are also planning to expand to Geurie and Narromine, so that others can be introduced to our sport,” the bubbly teenager told Photo News.

Molly urges anyone who is interested in the programs that are available at the Academy, or who just want to have a hit, to call her or Brad on 0428 303 438 or check out the Dubbo Tennis Academy Facebook page for more details.

Cleo Hawcroft with head coach Brad WilliamsCleo practising her forehand

Coaching staff: Brad Williams, Lyndall Murray and Ben Strachan

Molly Quilty all smiles in her gap year coaching role at Paramount Tennis Club.

Mitchell, Zara, Nash and Cohen get some stroke instruction from Molly