Dubbo Photo News 30.05.2024

Weather Perfect and Fashions Fantastique at the Arrowfield Queen of the West & Mercedes - Benz Dubbo Ladies Race Day at Dubbo Turf Club.

The Fashions on the Field winners were Melissa Davis (Queen of the West Best Headwear), Craig Smythe, Queen’s Consort (Best Dressed Gent), Sammy Cormie-Smith (Cowboy Chic) and and Elizabeth Patterson, Queen of the Day (Best Dressed Lady).

PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/KEN SMITH

Go for it! Jessica says to women and minorities keen to run in September

By DAVID DIXON

FIRST-TIME Dubbo Regional Councillor

Jessica Gough has one piece of advice for other women thinking about running for local government at this year’s statewide elections in September: “Go for it!”

Her call follows recent announcement of new funding for two women’s organisations – Australian Local Government Women’s Association (ALGWA) NSW Branch and Women for Election – to host a series of candidate information workshops targeted at under-represented groups of women.

Cr Gough, the Wellington-based single mum, small business owner, and ALGWA Board Member, is encouraging all women with an interest in their communities to consider running for our third-tier of government, and the one closest to the community.

“It’s more important than ever to have a diverse council to represent our diverse community: women makeup 50 per cent of the population, why shouldn’t they make up 50 per cent of the council?” Cr Gough said.

“If you’ve got strong community ties, care about what’s happening in your town, and think you can make a difference, why not have a crack?” she added.

She said that, even with a young child, there is no reason that women can’t make being on council a reality.

“I’ve got a six-year-old and, as long as the council that you’re on is supportive, you can make it work.

“With my daughter, who I’ve brought along to a number of council and community events, Dubbo has been very accommodating to me, they’ve been good,” Cr Gough said.

The workshops will cover leadership skills, how to run a successful campaign, as well as the roles and responsibilities of elected councillors, Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said.

“One of the real strengths of our state is the diversity of our communities, and we need to see this diversity better reflected in the make-up of our councils… lack of confidence or information about what it means to be a councillor, can hold a lot of people back from putting their hand up, especially women,” Mr Hoenig said.

“We hope with this support, these workshops can encourage more women and people from diverse backgrounds to take the plunge and represent their communities in the elections this September,” he added.

The most recent Candidate and Councillor Diversity Report shows the number of female councillors rose from 31.2 per cent to 39 per cent at the 2021 Local Government elections.

The report also shows 3.9 per cent of councillors were Aboriginal and Torres

Rest area

Strait Islander, 10.1 per cent of councillors were linguistically-diverse, and 4.2 per cent of councillors were aged 18–29, ALGWA NSW Branch President, Cr Penny Pedersen explained.

“For too long women have been under-represented in local government – as mayors, councillors and in senior management,” Cr Pedersen said.

g n in – as rs and ment,” Cr men ust encourage a nd

“Given more women than men live in NSW, we must encourage and support a greater number of women to take their place in local government,” she added.

Cr Gough encouraged any women interested in running at the Saturday, September 14, poll – for a local Dubbo election that will no longer be under the ward system –to give her a bell to and discuss standing locally.

“It’s not just women, it’s people from all backgrounds who I’m supporting to go on

Jodi’s firstever show is focussing on our flighty, feathered friends

DUBBO artist Jodi Cramond is off to a flying start with her first exhibition exploring our relationship with our flighty feathered friends.

Running at the Western Plains Cultural Centre (WPCC) until mid-September, the show entitled ‘Ornibiography 2024’ is part of the WPCC’s HomeGround program which offers emerging artists the opportunity to exhibit their works.

Ornibiography is a mixed media exhibition that explores our relationship with birds and Jodi’s struggles with mental health and how society perceives beauty.

She does this through incorporating media such as clay, paint and carbon to transform and challenge society’s perception and definition of societal beauty standards.

Go for it, is the advice from Dubbo Councillor Jessica Gough to women thinking about running for local government at this year’s statewide elections in September. PHOTO: DRC

council, the more diverse our council, the better,” Cr Gough said.

“It’s time to get rid of the ‘male, stale, and frail’ image of local government,” she concluded.

“My exhibition would be best described as a large flock of multi-media birds, all with their own idiosyncrasies and beauty,” Jodi explained. “It is a culmination of my admiration of birds for their bravery in such a harsh and unforgiving world in their incredibly fragile bodies,” she added.

Jodi explained that this WPCC initiative offers a fantastic chance for artists who haven’t exhibited before to explore their craft, learn the skills of their trade, and have their own show.

“The HomeGround program is a wonderful opportunity that local artists can access to be guided in their practice. It is a great honour and I feel humbled to be given the chance to show what I have achieved,” Jodi said.

Ornibiogrpahy has been

curated by Dubbo Regional Council’s Mariam Abboud, who said that this program supports the continued growth of a professional creative sector through training and professional development, as well as developing opportunities for creative co-working, mentorship, networking and professional development.

“Jodi’s collection is really thought-provoking, and asks the audience to look beyond what the society-perceived concept of beauty is, and to not judge something on face value, but look beyond the surface,” Mariam said.

“Advancing an artist’s practice is one of the key objectives of the HomeGround program, and it has been extremely rewarding to see Jodi grow as an artist,” she added.

Dubbo artist Jodi Cramond is currently showing her first exhibition, running at Western Plains Cultural Centre until mid-September and entitled 'Ornibiography 2024'. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Where do you work? The Book Connection.

Have you always lived in Dubbo? I grew up in Narromine and then moved to Dubbo when I was about 13 years old. I have been in Sydney for the last four years and have just moved back.

What are your favourite memories of growing up in Dubbo or your hometown? I’d probably say my favourite memories would be visiting the old Alpaca Coffee Shop out in Narromine.

What do you like to do in your spare time? A bit cliche working in a book shop, but I’m usually reading.

Do you have any hidden talents or special skills? I have my black belt in Karate.

Are you a morning person or a night owl? I’m absolutely not a morning person. You will never catch me up and about before 8am without a complaint.

Do you have any pets? What are they and what are their names? I have a 3-year-old blue cattle dog.

Her name is Dolly and she is an absolute menace.

What are you watching at the moment? It’s a bit insane but I’m currently rewatching New Girl for the sixth time. Highly recommend by the way.

Have you read any good books lately? I’ve read way too many to pick one.

What music do you like to listen to? I will listen to anyone or anything. Although I will admit I’m a recently “turned” country music hater. It’s suddenly all I’m listening to 24/7.

What does the next five years look like for you? Have no idea but I’m excited to see what comes.

SARAH O’ROURKE

ROAD TO PARIS 2024

MUNICH 1972: GOLDEN GIRL GOULD, SPITZ BLITZ, AND DARK DEEDS IN A CENTURY-OLD BLOOD-FEUD

On the road to the Paris Summer Games starting Friday, July 26, Dubbo Photo News is taking a nostalgic look back at some of the highlights and heroes, controversies and clashes, of one of the world’s great sporting extravaganzas, the modern Olympics.

By DAVID DIXON

THERE must have been just a touch of fear and trepidation when it was announced at the April, 1966, International Olympic Committee session in Rome, that Munich had beaten out Madrid and Montreal – who went on to host the 1976 games – for the 1972 Summer Olympics.

It had been only 30 years previously that the most-controversial games ever, Berlin 1936, had been turned into a giant Nazi rally by Adolf Hitler and his henchmen. This stain on the Olympic spirit was only somewhat lessened by black American athlete Jesse Owens winning Gold in four events –the 100-metre and 200-metre races (both in world record times), the long jump, and the four-man 100-metre relay.

By the early 1970s, however, the post-war nation that was West Germany had become a thriving economic and democratic powerhouse, with organisers celebrating this new optimistic spirit with the official motto: “The Cheerful Games”.

These were the largest Olympics up to that time, setting records in all categories – 195 events, 7134 athletes from 121 National Olympic Committees, and debuts for men’s indoor handball, slalom canoeing, and kayaking – with archery returning to the Olympic program after a 52-year absence. West German Liselott Linsenhoff competing in the dressage event also became the first female equestrian to win a gold medal.

Cute dachshund Waldi also became the first officially-named Olympic mascot (see inset article).

In results, American swimmer Mark Spitz – often considered the sport’s greatest-ever champion – won an incredible seven gold medals, breaking seven world records in the process; while tiny Soviet Russian gymnast Olga Korbut

(“the Sparrow from Minsk”), also captured the hearts of fans worldwide winning gold in the team, balance beam, and floor routines.

But it was another triple-winning medallist, “Golden Girl”

Shane Gould, who set Australia up for the latest of our glorious Olympic results that had started in Helsinki in 1952, with a dizzying number of record-setting swims over a few days.

The 15-year-old Sydneysider set out to win five gold at the games, with her gruelling program of races leaving her just short of that mark. She did, however, earn first place on the podium in the 200-metre and 400-metre freestyle events and the 200-metre Medley, all in world record times.

Flagging from exhaustion as the events rolled round, she had to be content with a silver in the 800-metres and a bronze in the 100-metre freestyle events.

Three of our other swimmers also struck gold: Gail Neall slashing five-and-a-half seconds off

Shane Gould of Australia on the rostrum on August 8, 1972, after winning the Women's 200m individual medley final at the Munich Olympic Games.

the world record in winning the 400-metre medley; Beverley Whitfield doing the same in her 200-metre breaststroke triumph (after also bagging bronze in the 100-metre event); and Brad Cooper’s belated win, after finishing second in the 400-metre freestyle.

Cooper’s gold followed the postrace disqualification of US swimmer Rick de Mont for taking the drug ephedrine for supposed chronic breathlessness. Our other two golds went to yachting crews, one in the Star class captained by David Forbes, and the Dragon class skippered by John Cuneo.

Silver medals were also won by Graham Windeatt, pipped at the end of the 1500-metre freestyle by American Mike Burton, and three cyclists: John Nicholson in the 1000-metre sprint, Clyde Sefton in the 180km road race, and Danny Clark in the 1000-metre time trial.

Perpetual games bridesmaid Raelene Boyle also picked-up two more second-places on the track, being beaten both times by a “controversial” East German athlete.

East Germany was a Soviet satellite during the Cold War, which was later found to have engaged in systematic state-sponsored drug cheating for decades, thereby denying clean athletes the honours that they deserved.

Melbourne-raised Boyle won silver in both the 100- and 200-metre sprint finals, finishing second on both occasions to East German Renate Stecher, who was later found to have been administered the anobolic steroid Oral Turinabol – a drug not actually added to the International Olympic Committee’s list of banned substances until 1975.

Coming in sixth place in the medal tally, Munich represented the last games where the tru-

ly-amateur Australians – trained by part-time volunteer coaches supported by state-based sports associations operating on tiny budgets – could compete against the drug cheats from behind the Iron Curtain and the hugely-funded industrial-scale sports programs of the Americans.

But the increasingly-competitive Cold War overtones of the games with its attendant problems of overt nationalism, performance-enhancing drugs, and “shamateurism” – paid athletes supported by nationally-approved and run “sponsorship” programs –were all overshadowed by a horrifying terrorism attack.

During the second week of competition on September 5, eight Palestinian guerillas from the militant Black September group broke into the Olympic Village, killing two of the Israeli team and taking nine more hostage.

In the ensuing gun battle at the nearby airport, a botched rescue attempt by West German police led to all of the nine being killed, along with five terrorists, and one policeman.

The Olympic Games were suspended for 34 hours, with a service held in the main stadium to commemorate the victims.

In defiance of the terrorists –and also the wishes of the surviving Israelis who all returned home – the games continued at the insistence of the IOC President, Avery Brundage, who famously said: “The games must go on!”

LITTLE WALDI SET THE STYLE FOR “THE CHEERFUL GAMES”

Cutelittle dog, Waldi was the first official mascot in the history of the Olympic Summer Games. A popular toy at the time of the event, he was a stylised dachshund, a very common pet in Bavaria and a breed famed for its endurance, tenacity, and agility.

Waldi was famously “born” in December, 1969, at a Munich Games organising committee Christmas party, where those attending were given crayons, sheets of paper, and modelling clay, with which to produce their designs.

ganising committee e those attend s, sheets o designs

three of the six Olympic colours. According to the book The Olympic Mara- thon (2000), the Olympic marathon route in 1972 also corresponded to the shape of the mascot, with the dog’s head to the west, the route starting at the neck, with the athletes running counter-clockwise until they reached the Olympic stadium for the finish line.

The mascot features several different colours: its head and tail were light blue, with a striped body featuring at least

Waldi even had a real-life alter ego, a dog named Cherie von Birkenhof, which the Munich Games Organising Committee President Willi Daume gave as a gift to International Sports Press Association President Félix Lévitan in 1970.

PHOTO: KEYSTONE PRESS/ALAMY

With lots of excitement and preparation Dubbo Eisteddfod begins this weekend.

We introduce the woodwind/ brass/ bands/ guitar adjudicator Brad Lucas. Brad is a passionate educator and conductor in high demand in Sydney. He holds a Bachelor of Music Performance in euphonium from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, where he studied under the tutelage of Scott Kinmont. Since 2015, Brad has lectured euphonium at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, and is currently Co-

ordinator of Brass. In 2023 he was made Visiting Professor of Shenyang Conservatory. As a performer, Brad has performed with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, NSW Police Band, and the Royal Australian Navy Band Sydney. He is a founding member of the Sydney Ophicleide Quartet (SOQ).

As a conductor he has been fortunate to be mentored by both Stephen Williams and Dr John Lynch. Brad is the Musical Director of the Kuringai Youth Orchestra, and has been invited as a guest con-

ductor to work with many of Sydney’s community orchestras, including the North Sydney Symphony Orchestra and the Woollahra Philharmonic Orchestra. Brad also works at the NSW Department of Education Arts Unit as conductor of the NSW Public Schools Symphonic Wind Ensemble, and conducts Symphony Orchestras and Wind Ensembles at the NSW State Music Camps. He has been invited to work with ensembles across NSW and interstate.

Brad is the Vice President of the Australian

Band and Orchestra Directors Association (ABODA) after serving as a committee member and as Secretary since 2016. ABODA provides professional development to conductors and educators. In his time on the committee, Brad has organised and run numerous events for the organisation including their annual Conducting Summer School. He has also been engaged to provide professional development sessions on Conducting and Ensemble Direction for the NSW Department of Education.

Woodwind/ brass/ bands/ guitar adjudicator Brad Lucas. PHOTO:

Autumn racing and fashion shines at Dubbo Turf Club

By KEN SMITH

ASENSATIONAL

autumn Saturday welcomed a large crowd to Dubbo Turf Club for the second annual Arrowfield Queen of the West & Mercedes-Benz Dubbo Ladies Race Day, 2024. The feature race, the $50,000 Arrowfield Queen of the West, was won by Deep Rouge, with Sister’s Pick second,

Leonni Whalan, Elizabeth Patterson, Rev Walker, Deidre Walker and Judy Nestor.

Fashions on the Field Event entrants: Queen of the West Best Headwear. PHOTOS: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/ KEN SMITH

Fashions on the Field: Queen of the West Best Headwear, Petrina Dowton (runner-up) and Melissa Davis (winner)

Claudia, Sarah, Monica and Kerry Anne

Back: Sophie, Jordyn and Casey. Front: Hannah, Emily and Skylea.Chelsea Blake, Arna Bettington and Molly Bailey

Fashions on the Field: Queen of the West country chic, Kate Wade (runner-up) and Sammy CormieSmith (winner)

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK

May 30: Lee Rhiannon, former Greens senator, 73. Wynonna Judd, country singer, 60. Cee-Lo Green, musician, 50. Matt Maguire, AFL player, 40. Antonio Winterstein, footy player, 36.

May 31: Clint Eastwood, actor/director, 94. Terry Waite British human rights activist, 85. Sharon Gless, US actress, 81. Tom Berenger, actor, 75. Tommy Emmanuel, guitarist, 69. Stephen Holland, Olympic swimmer, 66. Brooke Shields, US actress, 59. Todd McKenney, TV personality, 59. Johnny Diesel, singer, 58. Sarah Murdoch, model-TV personality, 52. Colin Farrell, actor, 48. Luke Arnold, actor, 40.

Jun 1: Pat Boone, singer, 90. Morgan Freeman, US actor, 87. Ron Wood, Rolling Stone, 77. Jason Donovan, actor/ singer, 56. Georgie Gardner, TV personality, 54. Adam Garcia, actor, 51. Heidi Klum, supermodel, 51. Alanis Morissette, Canadian singer, 50. Justine Henin, Belgian tennis player, 42. Willow Shields, US actress, 24. Jun 2: Stacy Keach, US actor, 83. Michael Leunig , cartoonist, 79. Jerry Mathers, Leave It To Beaver actor, 76. Dana Carvey, co-starred in Wayne’s World, 69. Kerry Saxby-Junna, champion walker, 63. Steve & Mark Waugh, twin cricketers, 59. Tom Gleeson, Hard Quiz host, 50. Yumi Stynes, TV-radio presenter, 49. Anh Do, AustralianVietnamese author, 47. Zachary Quinto, US actor, 47. Justin Long , actor, 46. Taj Burrow, surfer, 46. Todd Carney, footy player, 38. Steve Smith, cricketer, 35. Jun 3: Suzi Quatro, US singer, 74. Tracy Grimshaw, current affairs show host, 64. Carl Rackemann, cricketer, 64. Jamie Durie, horticulturalist, 54. Dan Ewing , Home and Away actor, 39. Rafael Nadal, tennis champ, 38. Jun 4: Gustav Nossal, researcher, 93. Burgess, former Wheel of Fortune host, 81. Mick Doohan, motorcycle racing champion, 59. Noah Wyle, US actor, 53. Jolie, actress, 49. Kasey Chambers country singer, 48. Jun 5: Kenny G, US jazz saxophonist, 68. Brian McKnight US singer, 55. Mark Wahlberg US actor, 53. Toni Pearen, singer-actress, 52. Steve ‘Commando’ Willis, fitness trainer, 48. Pete Wentz, US musician, 45. Emily Seebohm Aussie swimmer, 32. Troye Sivan, singer-songwriter, 29.

Casual

Anh Do.

Amy Searle, Skye McCutcheon and Edwina Gregory. Ethan, Montana and Archie Goninan. Lyn Fitzgerald, Kim Iffland and Julie McNamara

LEFT: Emma Knight and Jaylee Etcell

FAR LEFT: Jesse Doran, Tayliah Doran and Karle Hodges.

Courtney Davis and Kirilly Henry.

ABOVE: Petrina Dowton, Monique Donaghue, Claire Bynon and Jill Lunn

Deep Rouge, the winner of the 2024 Arrowfield Queen of the West, ridden by apprentice Siena Grima.

Fashions on the Field Event Entrants Queen of the West country chic Gill Subir

DCS Twilight fete

By JOANNE AUSTEN BROWN

The twilight fete at the Dubbo Christian School on Saturday, May 18, was an incredible success. There had to be something for everyone who came. Rides on a miniature train, ponies, jumping castles and such.

Reptiles, face painting, antique cars, and

the RFDS were on display. Shops selling honey, cakes, soaps, other foods and assortments of items were available. Books could be purchased and donated to the school library. And after the sun had set and you had eaten from all the foods you could imagine there were fire works.

Steak sandwiches and sausages and onions were available thanks to Greg Christian, Clifford Stephens and Daniel Bowen

A train built by one of the teachers provided rides

Lucy Estens serves Don Nicholson

Olive Wells had her photo taken with ballerina Caitlin McCarthy

Anthony Graham got to hold “Dip Stick” the black headed python at the Live Reptile display Ying Ying and Japneet had a great time getting their faces painted

There were antiques cars on display and Ray Tickle had his Austen A95. Here he is with Jacob McLean

This beautiful 1919 Cadillac is David Salter’s

Jessica Turnbull visited the RFDS exhibit

Grandparents Day at Dubbo Christian School

By JOANNE AUSTEN BROWN

On Friday, May 17, Dubbo Christian School held their annual Grandparents Day. As my grandchildren attend the school, I was lucky enough to go as a grandparent and to report on it.

The grandparents were welcomed at a short assembly and then we were escorted by senior students to the various classrooms where the grandchildren were having classes.

I got to an art class, a computer class and a history class. Then we had a senior students’ assembly where we were entertained by some of the students. Then it was to the playground where the grandparents where served morning tea. A scone, a muffin and some cheese and crackers in our own little box was given to each of the grandparents who attended. Tea and coffee was also available.

We sat in the sun listening to music provided by a number of different students until lunch time. It was a wonderful day.

6th grade class working on computers. PHOTOS: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS

Joanne with her youngest grand-daughter Zoe in her art class

Morning tea was provided for all the grandparents and they got to have it in the sun with their grand children

A chance to go to all the classrooms was a great experience

Principal Paul Arundell welcomes all the grandparents to the school

LOCAL PERFORMERS PREPARE FOR THE DUBBO EISTEDDFOD

Dubbo Eisteddfod encompasses three weeks of performances in the disciplines of dance, instrumental, vocal & choral, speech and drama. Local competitors have been preparing for months for their moment on stage, and that time is almost here. This week, DubboPhotoNewsjoined a variety of entrants in their planning and rehearsals for the Dubbo Eisteddfod.

Orana Dance Centre’s Principal Zoey Sweeney and Senior Teacher Gabriella Judd are eagerly awaiting the beginning of the dance section of the Eisteddfod. Zoey shares: “We are looking forward to the children having the opportunity to perform on stage. It is always wonderful to catch up with all our dance friends. Eisteddfod is about having fun, and we en-

By LANA EATHER

joy every moment!” Orana Dance Centre has twenty-nine groups attending and has been rehearsing five days a week for different age groups. The commitment and dedication of teachers and students alike is demonstrated in countless hours of tuition and training.

“Watching the children grow each year… it really drives us all to continue to learn and grow from year to year,” enthuses Gabriella.

Macquarie Conservatorium of Music is a Dubbo-based non-profit community organisation providing music education for all ages. The conservatorium has a number of groups and soloists performing at the Eisteddfod in the upcoming weeks. Conservatorium Director Paul Young prais-

es the Eisteddfod: “It offers a vital resource in our regional area. It enables a license to be creative and showcases the incredible abilities we have in our local community. The eisteddfod gives our students and ensembles a chance to see others performing while receiving professional feedback for their own performances. We are only too proud to support the eisteddfod through not only performers but also sponsorships and venue options. It is imperative that the whole community support the efforts of the Eisteddfod committee, coordinators and volunteers. It is a wonderful opportunity to share a combined love and celebration of the arts.”

2024 is the third year of performing at the Eisteddfod for the Dubbo Celtic Danc-

ers. This year they will perform in the newly created ‘World/Celtic/Traditional’ section as well as several other areas. Principal teacher Karen Armstrong commenced teaching Celtic Dance specialising in Irish and Scottish dancing in 2021 for all age ranges. “The word ‘eisteddfod’ is actually a Welsh word and literally means ‘sitting together’. Eisteddfods began as competitive festivals of music and poetry in Wales,” explains Karen. “I have fond memories of competing in the 1970s at the Dubbo Eisteddfod as a highland dancer. It is such a wonderful chance to share and include all types of dance and creative abilities.” Make sure to attend the Dubbo Eisteddfod to enjoy and support our local performers!

B LANAEATHER

Dubbo Celtic Adults.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED BY KAREN ARMSTRONG

ABOVE: Karen Armstong (nee Robertson) in 1974 with some of her competition medals as a Dubbo Highland Dancer. INSET: Karen’s Dubbo Eisteddod Medal from the 1970s. PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED BY KAREN ARMSTRONG

Dubbo Celtic Juniors. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED BY KAREN ARMSTRONG

Dubbo Celtic Tiny Tots. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED BY KAREN ARMSTRONG

Celtic Cuties. Rear: Daisy, Audrey, Clancy and Izzy. Front: Evelyn, Zadie and Eli. PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/LANA EATHER

Macquarie Conservatorium performer. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

Past winner of the Macquarie Conservatorium Award. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

The Dubbo Region is the best place to build your career

STILL TRUCKIN’: John’s solid half-century of local government service

Not many workers get up a half-century of solid employment – let alone in one industry – but that’s the achievement of Dubbo Regional Council’s Raymond (John) Fardell.

John’s career began way back in 1974 – the year Evonne Goolagong defeated American Chris Evert to win the Australian Women’s Singles title at Kooyong –starting with Dubbo Municipal Council, before transitioning to the Talbragar Shire Council, and then Dubbo City Council.

“I was in the concrete gang, pouring headwalls, the road out past the Zoo, Obley Road, it was dirt back then,” John recalled.

“We used to take our own gravel, own water, and cement-mixer, and mix it all on-site, it had to be built and poured, there was no ordering concrete in back then,” he added.

Over the years, John has worked driving “an old tractor and slasher” with no cabin, carting gravel in an Austin Tipper, driving a Ley-

land Hippo, eight-wheeler trucks, and R-Model Mac Semis.

While he has witnessed a transformation to operations, from changes to the way machinery is upgraded and purchased, to uniform regulations, the support and comradeship within the organisation, has remained absolute.

John attributes his long unstinting service with Council, as due to the great relationships he has fostered with colleagues over they eras, and the guidance he has been provided by supervisors.

“It’s all the people and just the company.

“I love the blokes and the bosses; I’ve had some really good bosses who have looked after me to a ‘T’.”

He said that, in our changing world where businesses and technology come-and-go, his enjoyment of his work, has been a constant.

“If you get a job on Council, see it out, stay here, I still love it,” he enthused.

“The awards and the conditions, you might be able to earn more money elsewhere, but you can’t beat anything else,” John believes.

Having now celebrated his 75th birthday in April, he says that :retirement” is not on his mind, and still rides his push-bike to work each morning, arriving at 5.30am, well before his 7am shift start.

At the Hawthorn Street Works Depot, John then grabs a bucket of warm water and a sponge to wash-down his truck.

At 6.20am, co-workers can find him making a cup of coffee in the kitchen area and, at 7am, he’s ready to start his shift for the day.

“I just love coming to work, I just love it,” he revealed.

“I love driving the trucks, I always wanted to drive the trucks, and I’ve had some good bosses too,” John concluded.

John’s half-century of service was recognised during Council’s May Ordinary meeting and during a breakfast celebration with his colleagues.

LOVE YOUR WORK

Bree Keith

Where do you work? Subway.

What’s

scribe

John Fardell being congratulated

half-century’s solid local government service at Dubbo’s May Council meeting with, from left, Council CEO, Murray Wood; John’s son, Rod; Dubbo Mayor, Councillor Mathew Dickerson and John’s wife, Sandra. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Cassar-Daley to showcase his raw emotion when Between The Fires show hits Dubbo

By DALLAS REEVES

Fans across the Central West will have the chance to see one of Australia’s greatest-ever country music singer-songwriters give more of his own life lyrically than he ever has before, when Troy Cassar-Daley hits the region next month on his ‘Between The Fires’ tour.

Speaking from Pomona in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast hinterland, on Kabi Kabi country, Cassar-Daley was doing rehearsals for the upcoming national tour when he gave ten minutes of his time to Dubbo PhotoNews

Cassar-Daley and his band performed a show at Pomona’s Majestic Theatre before the 33gig tour officially kicks-off at Casino on May 30.

The Central West has its chance to see Cassar-Daley in action when he plays at Gulgong (Bowling Club, June 13), Bathurst (RSL Club, June 14) and Dubbo’s RSL Club on June 15 with Bathurst’s Tameka Kennedy as the support act.

Cassar-Daley’s new album Between The Fires debuted at number two on Australia’s Recording Industry Association (ARIA) Albums Chart on May 20, second only to Taylor Swift’s The Tortued Poets Department. It’s a clear leader in the country music ARIA albums chart.

“I was really shocked,” he said of the chart success.

“I mean, who’s beating Taylor Swift on her day? No-one, so being at number two, on a chart with international artists, it’s special.”

More than just being a successful record, it’s a deeply personal album written by Cassar-Daley and recorded at his late mother’s old home on 110 acres at Halfway Creek, between Grafton and Coffs Harbour in northern NSW.

It’s fitting the ‘Between The Fires’ tour will begin just 140km north at Casino.

Cassar-Daley has lost his mother and father in recent years and admits it’s something he is still learning to cope with.

One single off his album, Some Days begins: “Some days are better than others/ Some days I miss my mother/ Some years make me feel like I’ve lived ten.”

It’s powerful musical storytelling.

“It was a bit harrowing,” Cassar-Daley said. “When you do lose them (parents), it’s a big adjustment in anyone’s life. When Some Days came along as a song it fell out of the sky, you’ve got to be able to catch a few things.

“Emotion is a up and down thing, a hirdy girdy ride. I was able sit down on mum’s verandah, tap into those emotions and write that song.

“A mate of mine Kevin Bennett who wrote it with me totally understood the feeling of feeling a bit lost when you’ve lost your folks… the fact that you have their number in your phone that will never be erased but you can’t ring them.

“I take the good with the bad and celebrate their memory. I wanted to be able to sing about it because it’s an easier way to me to explain how I feel… it’s an important song Some Days.”

The single Between The Fires, also on the same-named album, touches further.

With that raw emotion inside him ready to be transformed into music, that house at Halfway Creek was the only place to record.

The house was made out of two demolished houses and built by his great uncle, Cassar-Daley explained.

“This album was such a special one to make in my old late mother’s old house,” he said.

“Listening to the record, you wouldn’t think it was recorded in a house. All the songs created there I think stood up for themselves and are now ready to go on the road.”

Cassar-Daley lived at that house among between the ages of nine and 21.

“It’s got a lot of special vibes,” he said.

The first thing he did upon arrival with the recording team was light a fire outside.

He even cooked up a few of his mother’s favourite meals, including baked macaroni and a rissole-based dish.

“The smells of mum being there were in the house,” he said.

“It just felt she was there in spirit.

“I’m immensley proud of the

record. It’s been beautiful to hear the songs come to life. I’m proud of the fact that people have given it a great start. Now it’s time to share these stories on the road.”

Cassar-Daley said if he had a problem with his EH Holden ute he’d ring his dad.

And if he wanted advice on what songs to select for an upcoming album, he’d call his mum.

“Those sort of phone calls, they are the ones I miss,” he said.

On Between The Fires, there is even a song named Windradyne about the famed Wiradjuri warrior and law man.

Cassar-Daley was captivated that Windradyne had never been put to music and watched a documentary to find out more about a man that is buried at Brucedale, just 15km north of Bathurst.

“He’d never had a song,” Cassar-Daley said. “I love telling stories so I went down a rabbit-hole and jumped online. I can’t wait to share that story with the people of Bathurst, Dubbo and Gulgong.”

Let’s Ride, which also features Kasey Chambers, is a more upbeat single from the album. “It just came from a photo of my old EH (Holden ute),” Cassar-Daley said. “It was a rough old thing but got me from A to B.

“We didn’t have money then, so you had to scab parts and things. It was the reality, we’d trade parts. “That song was a bit of a metaphor for moving forward.”

Beccy Cole has described Between The Fires as Cassar-Da-

ley’s best album to date and pointed to musicality, the vulnerability, and the pictures these songs evoke all hit like a tonic.

It’s a big statement given Cassar-Daley has 12 albums, 40 golden guitars, five ARIAs, three Australasian Performing Rights Association (APRA) Song of the Year awards, nine Deadlys (Australian Indigenous Artist Awards) and four Country Music Associ- ation of Australia (CMAA) Entertainer of the Year awards to his name, among countless other accolades.

“The way Beccy described it, I couldn’t, probably because I’m too close to it,” he said. “It definitely was a way for me to heal, and it’s a way for other people to heal. It drags out some emotions in people they didn’t even think was there, but it gives them the tools to work forward as well. I’m really happy about that.

“I think what people will see in the live show is a lot of heart, the band has a lot of heart and do these songs justice.”

He is delighted to be returning to Dubbo.

Cassar-Daley pointed to playing at Dubbo in early 2015 as part of the 50-year re-enactment of the 1965 Freedom Rides as something that he still remembers vividly.

As a proud Gumbaynggirr/ Bundjalung man, the tale of when the Student Action for Aborigines organised a tour of New South Wales, travelling to Walgett, Moree, Gulargambone, Kempsey

and Bowraville to witness racism and segregation firsthand, captured Cassar-Daley’s imagination.

Led by the late Charles Perkins, that 1965 tour exposed racism.

Subsequent footage and media reports increased pressure on the government to act and support Aboriginal rights.

Cassar-Daley played with Paul Kelly and also visited troubled youth in detention while in town more than nine years ago.

“We fell in love with the town itself,” Cassar-Daley said of Dubbo. “It marked me that day, it moved me. There are some incredible memories.”

Cassar-Daley added some wise words from Slim Dusty at the beginning of his journey in country music means he knows how important it is to travel bush.

“It’s going to be so much fun bringing this show to Dubbo,” Cassar-Daley said. “The Central West of NSW has been a real part of building me as a country artist. Slim (Dusty) used to have a great old saying of never forgetting the bush. That’s the reason we come back.

“It’s all that great old advice. With years of well-supported gigs, that’s why we share new music as long as people are willing to come and see us.

“Now the fun part, the best part, is playing live.”

To see Troy Cassar-Daley live at either Gulgong, Bathurst and Dubbo, tickets are on sale at: troycassardaley.com.au

Dubbo Regional Council welcomes the announcement of $7.2 million from the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program Round 1 to support the Wiradjuri Cultural Tourism Centre for our community.

The Wiradjuri Cultural Tourism Centre will be an inclusive space to celebrate and share traditional and contemporary Wiradjuri culture on Country.

Time is running out to have your say on the draft 2024/2025 Budget and Operational Plan.

This draft budget and operational plan is Council’s proposed road map for the next 12 months.

Submissions are invited until  9am, Monday 3 June 2024; visit yoursay.dubbo.gov.au to have your say.

The Find Legal Answers Tool Kit is a great starting point for answers and is easy to read and in plain English. You can also go online at legalanswers.sl.nsw.gov.au.

Troy Cassar-Daley will play at three Central West venues, including Dubbo RSL Club on Saturday, June 15, as part of his nation wide 'Between The Fires' 2024 tour. PHOTO: MICHAEL MCCARTIN

PHOTOS BY COLIN ROUSE

James, Oli and Nicole Drew

Kyle and Michelle Needham

Matt and Emily Redfern

Sally and Jenna Mostyn, Jack Baker

Great Grand Children of Lorna & Eric Mostyn

Craig Mostyn, Courtney Perrow, Catherine Mostyn, Lisa Mostyn, Warren Mostyn and Tracey Parker

Cathy Mostyn, Tracey Parker, Tim Parker, Noella Bayer and Gae Drew

Roger and Rosalie Mostyn, Chris and Mark Mostyn

LUXURY RESIDENCE ON THE GOLF COURSE 30 LAKESIDE CIRCUIT, DUBBO

The best of lifestyle and location is offered in this luxury residence with sought after north-east facing golf course frontage.

This family residence has multiple living areas, outdoor entertaining, pool and detached studio/pool hut suitable for multiple uses including teenager or grandparent accommodation or a relaxing den after pool parties.

Recent improvements include new pebble crete driveway and paths, new turf and watering system, new internal and external paint, new floor and window coverings completing the transformation to 2024 living.

JANE DONALD

30 LAKESIDE CIRCUIT, DUBBO

LUXURY RESIDENCE ON THE GOLF COURSE

The best of lifestyle and location is offered in this luxury residence with sought after north-east facing golf course frontage This family residence has multiple living areas, outdoor entertaining, pool and detached studio/pool hut suitable for multiple uses including teenager or grandparent accommodation or a relaxing den after pool parties. and window coverings completing the transformation to 2024 living. An outstanding opportunity for the buyer seeking a quality home in Grangewood within easy access to Delroy Park shops, walking tracks, medical centre, and MAGS.

• 4 bedrooms and with built-ins

• Main bedroom suite with ensuite and walk-in robe

• Detached studio opens to pool and includes bathroom and kitchenette

• Three choices of formal and informal living areas

• Family bathroom with separate toilet

• Ducted reverse cycle a/c

• Alarm

• Solar panels

• N-E facing low maintenance back yard with watering system

• Golf course frontage

• 1195 sq m block

ASKING PRICE Offers Invited INSPECT SATURDAY 11.00-11.30AM CONTACT

298

Wongarbon Public School Mr Rich’s Year 4/5/6

The wonderful students in Year 4/5/6 at Wongarbon Public School really enjoyed reading Blueback by Tim Winton. We’ve used the book as inspiration for a variety of artworks and creative writing tasks. We had a great time at our Waste2Art workshop, creating some exciting pieces from recycled products and are looking forward to viewing the exhibition. On Harmony Day we learnt about other cultures and acceptance and cooked pizza and curry puffs as part of our school international luncheon. We celebrated with a whole-school lunch and we all learnt a little about cooking food from other cultures.

Proudly sponsored by

PHOTOS: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/LANA EATHER

IN FOCUS

THUMBS UP!

Thumbs up and thank-you a very kind gentleman named Darren, for paying for my newspapers at Snares Newsagency last Thursday.

Thumbs up to our newest eatery, Vita Felice Cafe in Macquarie Street. Beautiful food, beautiful tea and beautiful staff. We really are spoiled for choice in this town. Thanks to all the owners for their huge investment and their workers for turning up with a smile. We’ll keep coming back.

Thumbs up and thank-you to Marsha from Dubbo Bus Lines for always providing a safe and enjoyable journey.

Thumbs up to Duncan McGinness for his continued care of Rosie – it’s much appreciated.

Thumbs up to all the students who performed at the Macquarie Conservatorium’s student concert on Sunday. Some were performing in front of an audience for the first time, so were extra courageous. There was lots of talent on stage, well done!

 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 discoverer gave it some support. Three lovely tomatoes are

Dubbo Line Dancers

Annual Workshop and Social

The Dubbo Line Dancers held their annual workshop and social at Dubbo RSL on Saturday May 18th 2024.

This year’s guest instructor and DJ was Josh Talbot from Sydney who did an excellent job of teaching new dances in the afternoon and playing all the favourites at the social event on Saturday night.

This year the dancers attended from Dubbo, Sydney, Grif

ange, Bathurst, Coonabarabran, Canberra, Cowra, Bourke and Queensland.

The Dubbo Line Dancers would like to thank the Dubbo RSL who have always been big supporters of their socials.

If you would like to give “line dancing” a go?

Please call Lynn on 68885263 or Kathy on 68885287 or email kfar-

PHOTO: BRETT PHILLIPS

Dubbo Line Dancers.

Helen Spence, Sophie Spence and Kathy Fardell

Karen Doyle, Kathy Fardell and Helen SpenceLynn Peter, Anne Howey and Sharon McDermott

Orange Colour City Line Dancers

Griffith Country Line DancersBetty Vernon and Pauline ThompsonJohn Howey, Barry Peter and Brian Hedger

PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/ KEN SMITH

KiDZ ONLY!

Everett

How old are you? 5

What are you good at? Doing special tricks

What type of food do you love the most? Koala chocolate

Do you have a favourite word? Poo poo

What makes you laugh? saying poo poo makes me laugh and other people laugh too.

Who is your favourite character from a book? Paw Patrol - I like all of them.

Who’s the boss in your family? My Mum and Dad

BEAU O’HARA

Beau turns 1 on June 6th 2024 Happy 1st Birthday Beau Boy!

Love Mum, Dad & Big Sister Tilly

KNOW A BIRTHDAY CHILD THIS MONTH?

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!

Bring your copy of Dubbo Photo News to claim your Birthday gift. ws au eek before. ured her ? a Mall has a to

Knock, knock! Luke. Who’s there? Luke through the peephole and find out! Luke who?!

ACROSS

1 Alarm (7)

5 Instructs (7)

9 Aloofness (11)

10 Formerly (3)

11 Oration (6)

12 Activators (7)

PUZZLES

WORDFIT 9-LETTER

3

25 Hearing organ (3)

26 Representing an abstract meaning (11)

28 Depressants (7)

29 Those who derive pleasure from inflicting pain (7)

DOWN

1 Star Wars: Episode III, Revenge of the – (4)

2 Complying (9)

3 Honorific (5)

4 Pottery (11)

5 Digitally generated imagery (1.1.1.)

6 Whenever (7)

7 Follower of the main Indian religion (5)

8 Identifying (9)

12 Ancient coffin (11)

13 Partner (10)

16 Lengths (9)

18 Family name (7)

21 Virago (5)

23 Hyper (5)

24 In addition (4)

27 Guitarist, – Paul (3)

14 Wading bird (4)

15 Hostile (10)

17 Law-maker (10)

19 Book ID (1,1,1,1)

20 Reticence (7)

22 A seat for riding an elephant or a camel (6)

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”. 15 words: Good

words: Very good

words: Excellent Today’s Aim: admiring, aiming, aims, amid, arming, damn, damns, dims, disarm, DISARMING, dram, gamin, gram, grim, magi, maid, main, mans, margin, margins, mars, midi, mina, mind, mini, miring, riming, rims, sigma, simian

5 LETTERS

LETTERS

Insert each number from

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

QUICK QUIZ

1. What kind of food are poffertjes?

2. Who is the narrator in Markus Zusak’s The Book Thief?

3. Colloquially, what is a sparky?

4. What kind of fruit is ume?

5. In 1942, Earl Tupper developed the first product for which homeware brand?

ee break a eebrebbrebreak k

6. What year did World War II end?

7. Natasha Lyonne (pictured) stars as Charlie Cale in which comedy series?

8. What is an archipelago?

9. And what is the world’s largest archipelagic state?

10. Advocaat is a traditional Dutch beverage made with eggs, sugar and what kind of alcohol?

CUPPA COMICS

shine, and you could volunteer for a cause close to your heart. You could find new skills by following your intuition.

CANCER: It’s time to get rid of friends who don’t respect you. Avoid lending money to those close to you. Transparency will help strengthen any relationship.

LEO: You could be given more stimulating responsibilities at work. A promising oppor tunity will present itself if you’re looking for a job. A friend could also help you professionally.

VIRGO: A getaway is on the horizon. You’re on a tight deadline, so don’t overlook your preparations. All forms of learning will lead to contentment. Your social life could lead you towards physical, psychological and spiritual well-being.

LIBRA: You’ll be determined to rise to any challenge despite feeling some intense emotions. Moving house or changing jobs could bring you closer to a dream. Sometimes, you must step out of your comfort zone to change and grow.

SCORPIO: You’ll be thinking a lot about your love life. Thoughts of love may make you feel anxious. Relationships involve commitment, and you’ll take time to reflect before

WUMO

by Wulff & Morgenthaler

INSANITY STREAK

by Tony Lopes

OUT ON A LIMB

by Gary Kopervas

THE SPATS by Jeff Pickering

By JOANNE AUSTEN BROWN

This has to be one of my favourite collections that I have reported on - whisky! Andrew has dozens of different whiskies in his collection. Not just from Scotland but from all over the world including Japan and here in Australia.

Having tried a few, I can highly recommend this for a collection.

Please let me know if you have a collection as unusual as this one.

The Remnant, Tasman Whisky even Japanese Whisky.

Bridal must-haves on display

By KEN SMITH

Dubbo Rhino Lodge, one of Dubbo’s best venues, gathered a roomful of wedding must-haves, threw open the doors, and hosted their annual fun and comprehensive Bridal Day last weekend.

Jodie Wright, mobile hairdressing

Keiley Noble, celebrant

Jordan Lane, Rural Event Co.

Penny Browning, Pebbles Events

Amanda Lyall, DeBortoli Family Winemakers

Craig Ferguson, The Wedding Shoppe

Brenda Thompson, Gloss Permanent Jewellery

Bob Ware, Artesian Prestige Limousines

Jennifer Shepherd, celebrant

ON THIS WEEK

DIARY

Croquet: 8.15am for 8:30am start, Tuesday, Thursday. Croquet courts, Brisbane St, North Dubbo. Kate 0409 927 140, Lillian 0429 471 921 Wellington Lions Preloved Book Fair: Thursday to Saturday 10am to 2pm, Western Gallery opposite Cameron Park, Preloved books, CDs and DVDs, now also Jigsaw Puzzles! money raised in the coming months will be going to Lions Prostate Cancer Research and Treatment Centre.

COMING SOON

Above Board Gamers: SECOND and FOURTH Thursday of the month, 6pm, Devil’s Hollow Brewery. Alan 0432 278 235 Connecting With Art: Every second Thursday, Dubbo Pipe Band Hall. Free art group for carers, no experience necessary, resources supplied or bring your own project. Tea, coffee snacks provided. Contact Catholic Care for session information (02) 68834600. for morning tea and hear what CPSA has to offer. Guest Speaker is Gus Lico GM Dubbo RSL Barb 0427251121

Ladies Luncheon: Ladies Luncheon will meet at Sporties (RSL), Erskine Street at 12 noon on Saturday 1st June. Ring Bev if interested 68845401 if interested by 30th May. Survivors Of Suicide Berievment Group: Wednesdays, by expressions of interest. Please contact 0455 255 137 after midday.

Talbragar CWA: Next meeting will be held on Saturday June 1 commencing at 2pm in the CWA Hall 45L Boothenba Road, Dubbo. Guest speaker for this month will be Margaret Moon with a report from the CWA state conference. For more information please call Ronda on 68885231 or 0419275223.

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, $22 insurance ($20, 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

Connecting With Art: Every second Thursday, Dubbo Pipe Band Hall. Free art group for carers, no experience necessary, resources supplied or bring your own project. Tea, coffee snacks provided. Contact Catholic Care for session information (02) 68834600.

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 during 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

Wellington Lions Preloved Book Fair: Thursday to Saturday 10am to 2pm, Western Gallery opposite Cameron Park, Preloved books, CDs and DVDs, now also Jigsaw Puzzles! Money raised in the coming months will be going to Lions Prostate Cancer Research and Treatment Centre.

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 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.

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

Wellington Lions Preloved Book Fair: Thursday to Saturday 10am to 2pm, Western Gallery opposite Cameron Park, Preloved books, CDs and DVDs, now also Jigsaw Puzzles! Money raised in the coming months will be going to Lions Prostate Cancer Research and Treatment Centre.

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. Orana Writers’ Hub Ist Saturday of the month 10-1. Music Room WPCC

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

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: Thursday to Saturday 10am to 2pm, Western Gallery opposite Cameron Park, Preloved books, CDs and DVDs, now also Jigsaw Puzzles! Money raised in the coming months will be going to Lions Prostate Cancer Research and Treatment Centre.

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

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

The Write In. An opportunity for writers to sit in writerly companionship, writing. 3rd Sunday of the month. Dubbo library meeting room from 11.30.

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 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: 6pm-8pm, 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, Generosity Church 51 Sheraton Road Dubbo. Contact Anne Gemmell 0481396404. Depression Recovery Group: 10.30am, at the Catholic Parish Meeting Room, Brisbane St. Norm 6882 6081 or Bill 6882 9826

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 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 Marie Francis 0408845640. 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

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: 9am12pm, Cnr of High and Palmer Streets. New members welcome

Toastmasters Club: FIRST and THIRD Tuesday of the month, 7pm9pm, 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

7:30-9:30pm $10. Wesley Hall Cnr of Carrington Avenue & Church Street, Dubbo. Graham Woods 0447 885 603

Blood Cancer Support Group:

FIRST Wednesday of month, 10.30am12pm, 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: 10am-4pm, 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 10am-1pm, Bultje Street (Tennis Courts), Dubbo. $7 members, $9 non-members. Libby 0428 254 324

Dubbo Community Garden: 9am12pm, 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, 12:30pm to 1:30pm, 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

Survivors Of Suicide Berievment Group: Wednesdays, by expressions of interest. Please contact 0455 255 137 after midday.

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.

Swannett es and Jets in a Cup classic

Contributed by BRYSON LUFF

TWO benchmark teams in the Christie and Hood Castlereagh League League Tag competition, the Dunedoo Swannettes and the Narromine Jets turned it on again at Dunedoo’s Robertson Oval last Saturday, in what was a memorable Jessica Skinner Challenge Cup match.

Since it’s inception in 2023, the Swannettes have been the only team to have held the Jessica Skinner Cup, that is, until last Saturday, when the Jets won by 26-22 in front of a large and appreciative crowd.

In other League Tag news, the Gulgong Terriers pulledoff what many might consider to be an upset win over the previously-undefeated Coolah Flyers at Coolah in a tight game 14-12 after both sides had scored three tries.

At Coonamble, the Bearettes won another close game, taking-down the Baradine Magpies by 20-16, whilst Gilgandra’s Pink Panthers celebrated their first win since 2022 after downing Binnaway by 14-4, while Cobar were too-strong for Coonabarabran winning by 52-4.

Whilst the Skinner Cup may have found a new home, the Boronia Cup is staying in Coolah, with the ‘Roos first defence of the prized silverware seeing them blitz the 2023 premiers, the Gulgong Terriers to the tune of 56-14, romping-in for five tries in each half in what was another very impressive display by the only unbeaten side in the First-Grade competition this year.

The ’Roos will not be defending the Cup next Saturday, as they will be heading-up to Baradine to take-on a Magpies outfit that would have been disappointed by their 4818 capitulation to Coonamble last weekend, this being the Bears’ first win for the season and one that will give the redand-blacks a degree of confidence going into their Round

Six clash against Narromine at Narromine this weekend.

The remaining First Grade game had the Cobar Roosters bounce-back from their loss at home to Coolah the previous week, to just edge-out the Coonabarabran Unicorns in a hard-fought affair at Coonabarabran, the final score being 32-28.

The Unicorns will now head down the Newell to resume their friendship with the Gilgandra Panthers this Saturday, and this is very much shaping as a game in which the Panthers must make a statement, as to their ability to climb the ladder after a disappointing start to their season which has thus far only netted them one win.

Christie and Hood Castlereagh League Round Five scores

Youth League

 Cobar 36 def Binnaway 28 League Tag

 Narromine 26 def Dunedoo 22

 Gilgandra 14 def Binnaway 4

 Cobar 52 def Coonabarabran 4

 Gulgong 14 def Coolah 12

 Coonamble 20 def Baradine 16

Fir st Grade

 Coolah 56 def Gulgong 14

 Coonamble 48 def Baradine 18

 Cobar 32 def Coonabarabran 28

Round Six, Saturday, June 1

 Cobar v Dunedoo (League Tag)

10.30am kick-off

 Gulgong v Binnaway (League Tag and Youth League)

 Narromine v Molong (Youth League)

 Narromine v Coonamble (League Tag and First Grade)

 Baradine v Coolah

 Gilgandra v Coonabarabran

PHOTOS: PETER SHERWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY

Exciting games for Dubbo City Bowls Social rounds

Dubbo City Bowls most recent results for their Social Bowls, are as follows.

Tuesday Ladies Social Bowls for May 14, were:

 Winners: Sue McCauley and Merrill O’Sullivan defeated Veronica Morgan and Trish Gosper.

 Runner-Up: Annette McMillan and Pat Sherwin defeated Geraldine Jasprizza and Sue Armstrong

 Third Place: Helen Doran, Julie Brown and Laurace Lawson defeated Libby Buck, Karen Greenhalgh and Beryl Hobson

 Resters: Julie Brown and Annette McMillan. Lucky Draws: Karen Greenhalgh and Annette McMillan

Wednesday Men’s Social for May 15 were:

A total of 47 bowlers on our synthetics, bolstered by visitors including 16 Glenbrook travelling bowlers rolling-up on Tuesday and participating in the Men’s Social Bowls.

 Winners: Leo Balstad, Frank Armstrong and John Cole defeated Leo Balstad, Doug Back and Col Cottee

 Runner Up: Paul Wooldridge, Bryan O’Sullivan and Peter Knaggs defeated M Clarke, K Doyle and Peter Sinclair

 Third Place: Dennis Crimmins, Steve Kelly and Alan Andriske defeated Paul Ashcroft, Greg Vuht and Rodger Blane

 Fourth Place: Ron Anderson, Bob Har rison and Neil Hayburn defeated Bruce Palmer, Dennis Jasprizza and John Moore

SUNDY BOWLS

 Fifth Place: Paul Goodstat, Roger Sherwin and G Anderson defeated Alan Coffey, R Brown and Brian Coffey

 Sixth Place: Ron McCauley, Col Teale and Phil Knight defeated Frank Seibert, Eric Satchell and Ian Hobson

 Seventh Place: Tony Raper, Doug Aldis and John Murphy defeated Chris Strojny, Bob Blakemore and Mike Twohill

 Eighth Place: Barry Young, Alan Stratford and Alan Davies defeated Don, Ray and Barry from Glenbrook in the closest game.

 Resters: Paul Wooldridge, Frank Armstrong, Frank Seibert, Bryan O’Sullivan

The Jackpot of $115 was not won, with the Sponsor of the Week: Steel Supplies– Dubbo

Thursday Winter Warmer Mixed Bowls for May 16:

 Winners: Frank Armstrong, Alan Davies and Col Cottee defeated Sue Armstrong, Gaye Cottee and Judy O’Connor

On Saturday, May 18, were the Zone Play-Off s Open Pennant season with Grade Four playing at Parkes. Dubbo City Defeated Lithgow Workies by 10 points and now play in the State play-off s at Figtree.

The Grade Six side played at Cowra and Dubbo City defeated Parkes Railway, but then lost to Wallerawang and Canowindra.

On the notice-board, the District Fours Women and Men are now open for nominations.

Ducks revel in a warm pond as lucky 13, enter the pool

By JUDY WALSH

ALTHOUGH the pool temperature was considerably warmer than the previous week, we only managed to entice a total of 13 swimmers to take the plunge this round.

A few of the old quakers, however, lined the pool with plenty of “advice” for their colleagues.

In results, “Flippers” Willcockson scored a treble, taking wins in the 50-metre Breaststroke, the 25-metre Backstroke, as well as claiming one of the lucky numbers.

Allan Quinn also had a huge win in the 50-metre Freestyle, only to break his time by a whopping 6.11 seconds, handing the blue ribbon to Neil Harris.

David “Sparksey” Sparkes is, however, nursing a very badly injured hand and it looks like a dry spell for him on the pool deck.

This Sunday, we will swim for the Kintyre Country Living trophy and would like to thank all the monthly trophy sponsors who support us each year.

Bowlers in the mist, as keen players roll-down to Sporties!

Contributed by ‘PISTOL PETE’

UPPER-LEVEL fog certainly didn’t deter bowlers from rolling-down to the Sporties greens on the weekend with 39 bowlers shedding their jackets mid-morning as the sun graced the greens.

Rink Eight involved Pat Sherwin, Frank Armstrong, and Al Andriske, versus Sue Armstrong, Steve Kelly, and Greg Hough.

The game started with Pat, Frank, and Al winning five of the first eight ends to set-up a five-shot lead. Sue, Steve, and Greg, must have had cold fingers, because they were slow out of the blocks and hardly warmed-up, going down 17-7.

One might be right in thinking that Leo, Balstad, Allan Strat-

ford, and Graham Ross against Paul Martin, Chris Strojny, and Trish Gosper had the hallmarks of a classic, that was until the teams stepped on the mat!

The opening salvo came from the Leo/Allan/Graham camp, blasting a five on the first end. The others kicked-off with a double on end four, but went to the break trailing by 12. As true champs, the leaders rolled the others with five consistent ends for a 24-6 win, and second placing for the morning.

A close game is a good game, and the first half of this one rang true. Di Hidebrant, Pete Bennison, and Paul Goodstat against Jenny Spratt, Shirley Marchant, and John Cole, were only separated by one-shot with four ends each at the break.

Revolving into the second segment and the sun warming the bowlers, Jenny and Shirley helped John to take seven of the next eight and victory by 17-7.

Phil Knight is usually a bright shining star when he rolls bowls, but this week, his light went out! Playing with Sue McCauley and Therese Gaio, he added five shots in the first eight ends but Ron McCauley, Helene Emblen, and Pete Sinclair, pocketed nine.

The leaders then added a five to their first-half foursome to really apply the screws. In fact, Pete and his crew, did more, by winning seven of the last eight ends, destroying any hope of a comeback. The addition of 20 shots for the last eight ends, set-up a number one winning morning and a 29-6 scoreline.

There were cheers and tears as this game rolled towards the eighth end as Mary Perry demonstrated her great use of the stick.

She was helped by Roger Sherwin and Col Dover, who strode to a 15-1 lead after eight ends. John Humphries, Cheryl Storch, and Bryan O’Sullivan, tried everything,but their opponents hogged the mat. They did add seven after the break but fell by 19-7. Third place for Mary and Co. was a pleasing result.

One of our best swing bowlers was on show in the game on Rink 13. Chris Castlehouse had her bowls doing great things for both sides throughout the game.

Pete Ruzans was a tad wary, having to bowl against Col who has beaten him twice this year, but remained “mildly-confident”.

John Kennedy and Ruby Stockings rolled some very good bowls that helped their skips to finalise the ends. Pete’s mob led by nine shots to five after eight, and put another four onto the board on the next to set-up an unassailable lead.

Eric Satchell drew on his English heritage, playing in weather that suited him. He teamed with Glenis Hanigan and was going well early.

When the sun came-out, he became less active, his bowls troubling him as Mike Twohill and Ray Strahan took full advantage. Ray and Glenis were quietly having their own stoush, but it was Ray and Mike that made the second-half pretty much all theirs, winning seven of the ends to record a 17-8 win.

Dubbo City’s 2024 Grade Four champions. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Dubbo City’s 2024 Grade Six side. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

DUBBO DEMONS YOUNG GUNS GO AROUND AGAIN

Football youth sides went around again recently, with some cracking shots of their junior teams provided by Katie Haverlock Photography.

Dubbo hosting Orange, Bathurst hosts Dubbo, for 99th Astley Cup

AUSTRALIA’S oldest school sporting rivalry, started in Dubbo after World War I, kicks-off in late June with the 99th iteration – give or take a year or two – of the legendary Astley Cup.

Dubbo College’s Senior Campus’s most-recent newsletter recently revealed that the 2024 tri-school multi-sport event – including tennis, boys’ and girls’ soccer, netball, basketball, athletics, and rugby league – starts with Dubbo playing Orange High this year in a range of sports, on Thursday and Friday, June 27–28.

Dubbo then takes-on Bathurst Senior High campus on Wednesday and Thursday, July 3–4, with Dubbo hosting current-holders

Orange this year, and Bathurst High hosting Dubbo, reversing last year’s home-and-away format.

For long-time locals, next year will be the centenary of Orange High’s and Bathurst High’s participation in the Astley Cup, although Dubbo High School had competed against Sacred Heart College, Dubbo in the first Astley Cup in 1923.

This was a rugby league game for the relatively-new code, when the Astley Cup was run as a league challenge cup for schools within 50 miles (80km) of Dubbo.

Footy historians will be wellaware, that rugby league challenge cups, were very popular in country NSW during this time.

West Dubbo bowlers in the State finals, missed the big prize, “by that much!”

By ANTHONY BROWN, BOWLS MANAGER CLUB DUBBO

WEST Dubbo Men’s Division Two team put in a stellar performance at the Bowls NSW State Finals, coming mighty close to claiming the championship title!

Let’s revisit their journey which began last September, when they secured their spot after conquering the Zone Four Championship.

The State Finals were at Cabramatta Bowling Club and the competition was fierce, with 12 Zones vying for the title.

In the round-robin stage, West Dubbo started with a draw against Kempsey, followed by a narrow loss to Yamba by seven shots. They bounced-back with a convincing win against Tuncurry, securing 26 shots.

Interestingly, results from other matches played-out favorably, giving West Dubbo an unexpected “back door” entry into the quarter-finals.

The pressure mounted in the knockout rounds, but the West Dubbo team rose to the challenge, emerging victorious in a close battle against Merrylands in the quarter-finals. The winning margin hinged on the very last bowls (46-35).

The semi-finals saw the team draw deep on their spirit to clinch a spot in the final. After a slow start against Towradgi (South Coast), the boys trailed 15-2 but put on an eye-catching and remarkable fighting spirit to claim a comfortable win (44-30).

Although they reached the finals, defeating the home team Cabramatta proved a bridge too far. Cabramatta’s familiarity with the greens, seems to have given them an edge, ultimately winning both rinks decisively (33-10 and 25-11).

Finishing Number Two in the State shows West Dubbo Men’s Division Two team has a lot to be proud of. They displayed exceptional skill, determination, and teamwork throughout the

competition.

Team: Max Low, Anthony Brown, Darren Connolly, Tim Wilkinson: Barry Wilkinson, Troy Brown, Warren Towney, Craig Jeffery, Reserve Brad Barrow. Manager – Mark Barrow, The West Dubbo Bowling Club is also pleased to acknowledge the outstanding performance of its two women’s teams at the recent State Finals.

The Club’s top women’s team delivered a thrilling performance, narrowly missing out on a berth in the finals. They had a dominant victory over Nowra in the quarter-finals, showcasing their strategic prowess, and pushed the eventual champions, Charlestown, to the limit in the semi-finals before bowing out by a mere eight shots.

Team members: Ros Gilholme, Deb Morrow, Tracy Silk, Judy Cassidy, Lee Erwin, Mary Ney, Marg Rich, and Bev Goss, along with manager Kath Ashby.

The West Dubbo Women’s Number Four team also secured a well-deserved place at the State Finals. Their campaign began with a resounding win against Belrose. Although they faced strong challenges from Hamilton and Lake Cargelligo in subsequent matches, the experience proved invaluable for several first-time State Finalists on the team.

Team members: Pam Dawson, Nat Morrow, Kelly Dart, Deb Brown, June Usher, Ivy Jeffries, Tes Gorrie, and Claire Brown, along with manager Mark Gorrie and reserve Alieen Beecroft, can be proud of their competitive spirit and growth throughout the competition.

Looking Ahead: West Dubbo Prepares for Open Gender Pennant Finals

The momentum from the State Finals continues as West Dubbo gears-up for the upcoming Open Gender Pennant Finals in Tamworth, to be held in five weeks.

The club is confident that its Open No. Two team will represent West Dubbo with the same dedication and skill, as displayed by the Women’s teams.

Dubbo Demons Australian

West Dubbo Men’s Bowlers. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Peter Townsend, Peter Butheim and Andy Crawford with Speck and strapper.

PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Callum Bowen in the Under 17s for Dubbo demons last weekend.

Josh Watts in the Under 10s

Lilly Egan playing-up in the Under 14s.

Coach Shelly with some of the Under 10s.

Rhinos rumble over triple Premiers Parkes, in an early-season try blitz

By GEOFF MANN

Photos by MEL POCKNALL

DUBBO Rhino’s strong start to the New Holland Cup rugby union season, continued on Saturday with a point-scoring blitz to down three-time’s current Premiers, Parkes.

The Rhinos crossed for eight tries with centre Ava Sanga scoring four, and kicking a conversion for 22 points, with fullback Dale Smith also kicking four conversions, a penalty, and planting the ball over the line for a try to himself grab 20 points.

President, Doug Sandry, says the

Club, however, is not getting carried-away with a couple of really tough matches against Mudgee and Narromine in the week’s ahead.

 American Aidan

and was a handful all

his move into the for-

 In the Dubbo Rhino’s win over three-time’s current Premiers, Parkes, fly-half Nash Forgione

 Dale Smith converting one of four first-half tries

 Rhinos Head Coach, Graham Conn, encourages his troops at half-time

FOLDING THE IRONING: Winger Jett Lane pulls-off a big tackle

Ava Sanga scoring after a 70-metre run.

Scrum-half Darcy Richardson in a scheming mood and on the moveAaron Thompson looks pretty happy to get his first “meat pie” on Australian soil!

Flanker Tyrone Peckham dominated the lineout all day LEFT TO RIGHT:

Kuhn, relished

wards

day.

Prop Lachlan Toomey on the charge

CYMS AND DRAGONS SET FOR A BLOCKBUSTER SPORT

By GEOFF MANN

Photos by MEL POCKNALL

REIGNING Peter McDonald Cup champions, CYMS Fishies, travel to Mudgee on Sunday determined to keep their impressive recent run going.

After a zero-two start to the season Shaun Townsend’s men rallied to beat Orange Hawks (away) and then backed-up with a 30-point victory against Wellington at Apex Oval on Sunday.

This week, however, will be a serious test against a Mudgee team that has three players with NRL experience.

Dragons Coach, Clay Priest’s return to the field, and a monster pack saw them steamroll the previously-unbeaten Bathurst Panthers, and their desire to reverse last year’s Grand Final loss, will also be a huge motivator. A bumper crowd is expected at the Glen Willow Complex.

Last year’s leading try scorer Jeremy Thurston tackled by five-eighth Jai Merritt. Ben Bruce (15) ready to assist

Billy Sing races away to score with Jordi Madden urging him all the way

Centre Clinton Edwards over beside the posts.Winger Corey Drew avoids the clutches of Jai Merritt

Former Australian, State of origin and NRL star Blake Ferguson showed his class an a brilliant try-scoring burst

Mason Williams returned to the Cowboys from Nyngan this season - four goals and a try!

Teammates get in each other’s way attempting to fell ClearyWhite scored in the first minute. Unfortunately left the field with a shoulder injury later in the match

LEFT: “Out of my way ref”! Jeremy Thurston knows only one way.

ABOVE/RIGHT: Thurston try! Sully Haycock a happy hooker!

Lingwoodcock avoids the outstretched Edwards hand Jack Quinn relished the move back to the middle

Cowboys prop Mac Dutfield was a tower in the middle of the ruck. Jackson Bayliss is well and truly roped

The human cannonball James Stanley loves his “meat pies”!

Jyie Chapman sprints away