Fire & Rescue NSW Dubbo 280 was part of the recent NAIDOC Day in Victoria Park and Beau and Audrey Crittenden (and many others) grabbed the chance to sit up front. PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/KEN SMITH
Let’s fundraise to Wuthering Heights!
By LANA EATHER
Looking for a fun afternoon?
Why not join hosts and organisers Camilla and Sharon for a bit of light-hearted entertainment in one of Dubbo’s most iconic locations, all while supporting the worthwhile local cancer charity, Pink Angels!
On Sunday, July 28, Dubbo will join an international flash mob to recreate Kate Bush’s music video ‘Wuthering Heights’.
This fun fundraiser will begin at the Old Dubbo Gaol with doors opening at 2pm. Participants can add names to the Wall of Love in honour of those no longer dancing with us, and practice their moves with Dr Mary Nushaj.
Dr Nushaj is a doctor in oncology at the Dubbo Cancer Centre, and will also be the lead performer for the Wuthering Heights!
Organisers Camilla and Sharon explained this ‘origin story’ to Dubbo Photo News
“Dr Mary is Dubbo’s favourite dancing doctor as not only did she lead Dubbo’s Most Wuthering Heights Day last year, and was a Dubbo’s Got Talent entrant, but she is also a professionally trained dancer – what is not to love about that?” the duo said.
The Wuthering Heights dance will officially begin at 3pm. Participants are encour-
aged to wear red and join in as the famous Kate Bush.
Event hosts Camilla and Sharon, also affectionately known as ‘Cam and Shaz’, are both locals who know the impact of having access to good cancer support.
In 2022, after having lost another loved one to cancer, they decided to do an annual community fundraiser. Sharon is the founder of Social Gain – an enterprise deliver-
ing fun community projects for positive change.
Camilla is a long-time community arts educator and a strong advocate for the Dubbo region; she is currently involved in running the Sing Out all-inclusive dementia-friendly choir.
The Dubbo community will join locations across the world to celebrate ‘The Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever’ event, where participants rec-
reate the music video for musician Kate Bush’s 1978 song “Wuthering Heights”. The event’s inspiration is The Ultimate Kate Bush Experience which took place in 2013 in Brighton, United Kingdom, as part of Brighton Fringe. It was created by performance collective Shambush! who attempted to set an unofficial world record for the most people dressed as Kate Bush in one place, with hundreds
attending.
The event is traditionally held worldwide around Kate Bush’s birthday.
Tickets for the Dubbo event are available for $20 through https://events.humanitix.com/ most-wuthering-heightsday-dubbo
It is being proudly backed by the Old Dubbo Gaol and Dubbo Regional Council and is an all ages and abilities event.
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Some of the Kate Bush look-alikes who took part in The Most Wuthering Heights Day at Old Dubbo Gaol last year. Local organisers are looking forward to an even bigger turn-out at this year’s fundraiser on July 28. PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/FILE
Where do you work? Ultra Beauty.
Have you always lived in Dubbo? No, I am originally from Coonamble.
What are your favourite memories of growing up in your hometown? My favourite memory is going to the park with my sister.
What do you like to do in your spare time? Go to the gym and enjoy the outdoors.
Do you have any hidden talents or special skills? My special skill is that I am able to make everyone laugh.
Are you a morning person or a night owl? I used to be night owl but I now love an early morning.
Do you have any pets? No pets at the moment, but I’m hoping Santa brings me a puppy.
What are you watching at the moment? Love Island, UK.
Have you read any good books lately? Atomic Habits by James Clear.
What music do you like to listen to? A bit of everything… I love some R&B, house and country.
What does the next five years look like for you? Hopefully in my dream career and living on the Gold Coast with my girl Shacara.
Donate to help the Dubbo Community Men’s Shed fundraise
By LANA EATHER
The Dubbo Community
Men’s Shed Incorporated is holding a garage sale on August 10 with proceeds providing assistance to the Macquarie Home Stay building program. The garage sale will be held at at the Men’s Shed, 171 Talbragar Street.
“Macquarie Home Stay is such an important part of the Dubbo Community, and we are looking forward to donating the proceeds of the sale towards helping them in any way we can,” President of the Men’s Shed Kevin Sinclair told Dubbo Photo News
As a registered charity the Men’s Shed is seeking donations of useful household items, small furniture, kitchenware, yard and garden objects. Items can be delivered to the shed each Monday from 9am to noon, or Thursdays and Saturdays from 1-4pm. Members from the Dubbo Community Men’s Shed are also happy to help with item transportation. If pick up is required please telephone 02-68816987 (be- tween above hours) or af-
ter hours on 0427253445 or 0421024470.
The Community Men’s Shed currently has over fifty members from different backgrounds, trades and walks of
life. Each member has a story to tell and a drive to help the community and their fellow members. The worldwide Men’s Shed phenomenon was created to encourage a
safe, supportive and friendly environment for all men of all ages to gather, volunteer, work, teach, learn and seek fellowship with other like-minded people and
to be treated equally. It has promoted and stabilised the mental, physical, emotional and economic wellbeing of all men in our community. Each year the Dubbo Community Men’s Shed provides assistance with various projects ranging from Santa’s Chair for Rotary, BBQ seats for various businesses and schools, the Base Hospital, ‘Buddy Benches’ for local schools and childcare centres, various charities and disability groups and overseast charity organisations.
Each Men’s Shed member is encouraged to participate in projects that follow their interests and expertise, as well fostering involvement within the local community. The Men’s Shed is keen to provide assistance to worthy projects throughout the local community. Please contact the shed to further discuss your project and plans. Drop in your items before August 10, and attend on the day to help the Community Men’s Shed support Macquarie Home Stay!
Dubbo Community Men’s Shed members. PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/ LANA EATHER
Livestock Market restructure, so Dubbo ratepayers aren’t meat in the sandwich
By DAVID DIXON
LOCAL councils can, over decades, take on business ventures that may have better been provided by private enterprise.
Despite its continuing on-paper burden for ratepayers, however, Dubbo Regional Council recently voted to retain full management of Dubbo Regional Livestock Markets (DRLM).
This follows a review of the facility that found a restructure was required to ensure regional residents weren’t the meat in the sandwich, as it were, for future upgrades of the facility.
Councillors determined that the “ownership and operation model” would instead involve a “modified status quo”, to ensure more competition and compliance with the current legislative environment, Mayor Councillor Mathew Dickerson said. This legislative environment for the three-quarter century-old site, covers such issues as workplace health and safety, heightened emphasis on animal welfare, and competition policy to do with Public-Private Partnerships.
“The council-owned facility
started in 1950, and it has slowly aged and decayed over the years,” Cr Dickerson said.
“This review started in 2021, and it revealed a number of issues that needed addressing; we needed to make some changes,” he added.
Council then explored three options for the site, sell it lockstock-and-barrel, lease it to a third party, or retain operational
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control. While the facility is currently making an operating profit, capital depreciation will leave ratepayers in-hock for millions of dollars, when it needs replacing in future years, Cr Dickerson said. Fee increases of up to a third for each animal, along with effective abolition of permit charges for new entrants that is designed to encourage more agents, should get the facility back in black, coun-
cil decided.
“The changes we’re making should see the facility, sooner, rather than later, doing better than breaking even,” Cr Dickerson said.
“And we have to – State Government policy dictates that, if councils are running a business in a competitive market, they should be making better than the Commonwealth Bond of 4.3 per cent
per annum,” he concluded.
One of council’s representatives on the DRLM Advisory Committee, Cr Damien Mahon, said that the scheduled Service Review of the facility found that council still running the show, while increasing revenue, was the best option.
“There was a couple of arguments that we shouldn’t retain control, but it wasn’t enormous,” Cr Mahon said.
“We just need to increase revenue by a million dollars a year and, with the fee changes, we should be able to do just that,” he added.
Public-owned business enterprises, he said, can’t remain in the past and, like any private ventures, must be commercially viable in the current economic environment.
“At the end of the day, it wasn’t being upgraded and operated the way it should have been over the years, and it hasn’t kept up with legislative changes to the industry.
“To do nothing was not an option but, with our extra income, we’ve got to have money to replace the asset,” Cr Mahon concluded.
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Dubbo Regional Council recently voted to retain full-management of Dubbo Regional Livestock Markets, with fee increases to ensure ratepayers aren’t the meat in the financial sandwich. IMAGE: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/ KEN SMITH
MCU SUPPORTS DUBBO’S POPULAR RUNNING EVENT FOR THE 10TH YEAR
marks a special milestone in the partnership between Macquarie Credit Union and the Dubbo Stampede. It will be a decade of the Credit Union’s support for the event.
The Dubbo Stampede is Dubbo’s premier running event and this year too, Macquarie Credit Union will be sponsoring the MCU Schools Challenge. The event starts and ends at the Taronga Western Plains Zoo and features a range of running events suitable for schoolaged children and families, promoting health, activity, and inclusiveness. The event is designed to be inclusive for all abilities, welcoming prams, wheelchairs, walkers and joggers.
The Macquarie Credit Unionsponsored Schools Challenge encourages school children and their families to take part. When registering, you can choose your favourite school and help them earn points
to win a $500 cheque and a trophy in 3 different categories of small (less than 250 students), medium (251-450 students) and large schools (over 451 students).
The Dubbo Stampede also groups that aim to create a
healthier and more active community. This year, they will be supporting the Sing out Dementia Choir, which brings together and supports people living with dementia and their families that provide care for them, through the power of song.
Each year the Credit Union registers it’s own team to participate and support the event further. They enjoy taking part with the rest of the running and walking enthusiasts. The atmosphere is energetic and the participants range from very serious
runners who keenly watch their timings to families with young children watching and enjoying the zoo animals as they walk through the course. This year’s event will take place on August 25, 2024. For information and registrations visit their event website at www.dubbostampede.com.au
The website also contains useful tips on preparation for the event including training plans for each category of event for people of different levels of fitness.
for your school…
When you register for the Dubbo Stampede, select your favourite school and earn them points to win money for their school!
Participants can help win their school $500 through the Macquarie Credit Union Schools Challenge.
The Macquarie Credit Union Schools Challenge, rewards the schools that have the most registrations in their size category with a $500 cheque, a trophy and bragging rights.
The three prize categories are: small schools (less than 250 students), medium schools (251 – 450 students) and large schools (over 451 students).
The Dubbo Stampede, which has a number of events ideal for school aged children and families, also promotes health, getting active and inclusiveness and the Macquarie Credit Union Schools Challenge is another way of achieving this outcome.
PICTURED: The MCU team and their spouses that participated last year (2023): Kylie, Greg, Steph, Kylie, Swairee, Matt and Cassandra. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
DARLING St DISTRICT
Tilbrook & Co
Tilbrook & Co in its new premises at 174 Darling Street, Dubbo is a hidden gem for those who appreciate history and nostalgia. Sourcing objects such as furniture, books, art, kitchenalia and many more pre loved items, Tania’s store is bursting with Antiques, Collectables, Books, Ephemera, Preloved & Upcycled Furniture.
Looking for books? We specialise in non-fiction books with Heritage, Culture, Architecture, Australian History, Australian children, Engineering,Railway, Sports, Flora
Spring call for Dubbo’s NAIDOC Week, taking Wellington’s lead
By DAVID DIXON
Arecent funding announce-
ment from Dubbo Council of $15,000 for Wellington’s NAIDOC Week celebrations in September, highlights the incongruity of our two largest Indigenous population centres holding their commemorations more than two months apart.
With Dubbo shivering through maximum temperatures in the mid-teens for this year’s early-to-mid-July events, one local Aboriginal leader believes there’s no reason why Dubbo can’t follow Wellington’s lead in choosing a more weather-friendly time of year.
“Wellington has been holding its NAIDOC Week in September for decades,” Dubbo City Councillor Lewis Burns –an accomplished Aboriginal artist, musician and performer – said.
“It was originally held at a different time of the year, as the ‘Day of Mourning’, but it was moved to July when no-one had any say in it,” he added.
NAIDOC (National Aboriginal and Islander Day Ob- servance Committee) Week traces its beginnings back to 1938, through a letter written by early First Nations leader William Cooper to his community and the Christian churches about the treatment of Indigenous Australians from the time of European settlement.
In it he appealed for “A DAY OF MOURNING concurrently with the white man’s DAY OF REJOICING to celebrate the 150th year of the coming of the white man to Australia”.
First held on Australia Day, January 26 – the date at which Governor Phillip declared sovereignty over the eastern half of the continent for the British Crown – it was changed to early July in the mid-1950s, before becoming NAIDOC Week in 1991.
Cr Burns, however, said that as most events are almost all locally-based and supported by Council, there is no reason why commemorations can’t be held at a different time of
the year in Dubbo.
“It should never have been moved to July in Dubbo but, when it was done, we didn’t have any say in it.
“It’s a week of celebrations with many of our events, marches and the like, all held outside – I’d prefer to see it in September, like at Wellington,” he argued.
Due to its position on the Central Tablelands, and with average daily maximum temperatures of below 10-degrees for July, Orange to our east has traditionally held its NAIDOC Week events in late spring.
This year with their opening ceremony on Monday, Oc-
tober 21, an Orange Council spokesperson said that mid-winter is simply too cold and unpredictable for outdoor events. Other local government areas to hold NAIDOC Week later in the year include Forbes and in the Snowy Mountains.
Dubbo’s Deputy Mayor and Wellington Ward Councillor, Richard Ivey, said that Wellington’s dates for NAIDOC Week had been long-established under the former town council.
“It’s been held at a different time to Dubbo, going back to pre-amalgamation days and, as far as I remember, it’s always been in September,”
Cr Ivey said.
“In fact, there’s a range of other local government areas, for one reason or another, that don’t hold their celebrations in July,” he added.
With daily maximum temperatures in Wellington this NAIDOC Week hovering in the low teens, he said that later in spring is the most logical time for such an important commemoration anyway.
“September is a much better time of the year to celebrate a series of important events like NAIDOC Week,” Cr Ivey said.
“The whole concept, the history, is all about reinvigoration and renewal, why not hold it in spring, at a more optimistic time of year? It just seems logical,” he concluded.
Dubbo mayor Mathew Dickerson said that, while Council fully supports NAIDOC Week – this year providing $25,000 in funding assistance for events including the NAIDOC Flag Raising ceremony and morning tea, celebrations in Victoria Park, and the Dubbo Community NAIDOC Ball – they don’t set the date for local celebrations.
“That’s done by a committee, I believe, involving local Indigenous leaders – we have nothing to do with it.
“However, if they came to us and said ‘we want to change the date’, that would be up to them, and we’d support that wholeheartedly,” Cr Dickerson concluded.
The NAIDOC March through Dubbo this year. At least one local Indigenous leader is suggesting that NAIDOC Week in Dubbo could be held later in the year, as it is in Wellington. PHOTOS: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/KEN SMITH
DUBBO WORKS is highlighting the excellent career and learning
region offers. To contribute ideas, email
the
Kids’ love of books is the ‘connection’ for Beverly’s brightest work moments
By DAVID DIXON
WHILE it may have been American literary legend Mark Twain who famously said, “Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life,” the truth is we can’t in reality all be astronauts, actors, firefighters and ballerinas...
Store Manager of The Book Connection, Beverly Fearne – who’s dream job is to pursue a career in publishing – however, has the next best thing.
With a love of books going back to her childhood, it’s also a career she happened upon by pure chance.
“I’ve always been a book reader, even when I was a little kid I loved literature, classic children’s writers like E.B. White who wrote Stuart Little and Charlotte’s Web,” she added.
“I’ve been here at the bookstore sevenand-a-half years, I kind of fell into it, to be honest, I just heard they needed someone, and applied, and have been enjoying every minute,” she added.
With two daughters of her own, it is still children’s love of the magic of literature that inspires her in her work.
“I love it most when the new releases of kids’ books come out, and I see their faces light up and how excited they are. It is that enjoyment of literature, that is the most sat-
LOVE YOUR WORK
isfying part of the job,” she added. Managing the day-to-day operations of the store as well as supervising, training and overseeing staff operations at Dubbo’s major independent bookstore, she was surprised how the COVID-19 pandemic lock-
downs of a few years’ ago affected people’s reading habits.
“Absolutely, reading really made a comeback, people became sick of watching the same old stuff on streaming services and television, and fell in love with books again.
“Things are a bit quiet now, however; we’ve just had a sale on and – with the cost of living – people are just holding off a bit before they purchase much in the way of new works,” she said.
The industry, she adds, is now holding its breath waiting for the big pre-Christmas launches by major authors that usually start in the southern hemisphere spring.
“There’s definitely a ‘launch season’ leading up to the end of the year, the bigger ones come out in September and October, and from then on to Christmas. We’re just waiting to see how they all go this year, hopefully we’ll see a pick-up,” Beverly said.
Most people would be surprised at the genres and specific titles that sell the best, week-in, week-out, Beverly said. For example, the money advice book The Barefoot Investor by Scott Pape is one of the most-recent bestsellers at The Book Connection, even though it’s been around for a while.
“Crime fiction and real crime are the two consistent bestsellers, the industry has absolutely opened up to new genres and new authors over recent times with these subjects,” Beverly revealed.
Suzanne Samson
Where do you work?
Macquarie Regional Library, Dubbo. What’s your job?
Children and Young People’s Officer.
Why do you love your work? Inspiring a love of reading, helping customers find the perfect book, and
connecting customers with library services is the best part of my job. Did you grow up in Dubbo? I grew up in Wellington. What was your first paying job? Retail assistant at Bag-A-Bargain, Wellington. Three words your friends would use to
describe you? Cheerful, enthusiastic, empathetic. What attributes do you admire? Honesty, compassion and loyalty. What actor would you have play you in the movie about your life? Reese Witherspoon. When you were little, what did you think you wanted to be? A librarian.
What is your favourite book and why? The Great Zoo of China by Matthew Reilly… it is action-packed, has great characters, and is very fast paced. I also like any of the Goosebumps series by R.L. Stine, and The Very Cranky Bear series of picture books by Nick Bland.
“For myself now, I still like to read fantasy and fictional crime, that’s the type of literature that I enjoy the most, just to escape a bit,” she concluded.
Southern Shorthaul Railroad has an exciting opportunity available for career-minded individuals who are passionate about Trains and the Rail Industry. Due to ongoing growth, we are currently looking to recruit Entry Level Assistant Train Drivers for work out of Dubbo.
Comprehensive training and ongoing mentoring and support will be provided to successful candidates.
Our Assistant Train Drivers provide train operations in a safe, effective and efficient manner and work collaboratively by:
Assisting with freight haulage tasks in accordance with SSR policies and procedures
Preparing and provisioning locomo-
tives and wagons for train operations by following SSR procedures
Performing minor fault repairs and failure rectifications in-field
Undertaking maintenance tasks and assisting rolling-stock maintainers to validate the integrity of rolling stock (including brakes), and ensuring all operational systems are safe and effective
Conducting themselves in a professional manner with a strong customer and safety focus
Ensuring a commitment to established processes and management of risks with the objective of zero injuries
For more info, go to www.seek.com. au/job/77105891
With a love of books going back to her childhood, Beverly Fearne loves her work as store manager of The Book Connection in Dubbo. PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/ KEN SMITH.
Push more organic waste to green bins, audit and deputy mayor urge
By DAVID DIXON
DUBBO can’t get enough of residents’ organic waste in their green-topped wheelies, with locals currently dropping off too much re-useable waste in their red bins, council says.
Residents have been encouraged to check what they bin, following results of the 2023 domestic kerbside waste audit, which found worrying degrees of contamination across the program.
Member of the Climate Change and Resilience Committee and Deputy Mayor Richard Ivey said that council would love to see as much clean organic waste as possible go into the green waste bins.
“We’re always after more organic waste recycling, we can never have too much,” Cr Ivey said. “We’d certainly like to see more in that green one that gets picked-up once
a week, for people to make a conscious effort to use it.”
He said that this waste is recycled into hundreds of tonnes of organic compost, available for ratepayers and businesses around the region.
“The mulched material is then available for purchase by residents, and we simply can’t get enough of it. You go out to the recycling centres, and you certainly don’t see mountains of it, we move it pretty quickly,”
Cr Ivey said.
On the recent audit, council’s Manager Resource Recovery and Efficiency Jamie Lobb said that varying contamination levels and diversion opportunities were reported across the program.
bin) audit noted less than 1.5 per cent of the contents was contamination. With only 8 per cent of food organics observed, this highlighted the potential for using the green bin to house the organic material currently being placed in the red bin.
ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING
MEN’S HEALTH AT FREE COMMUNITY EVENT ON SUNDAY
By DAVID DIXON
ABSOLUTELY everything and anything to do with men’s health will be discussed at a special free seminar in Dubbo on Sunday, July 28.
Topics covering sleep, muscles and skeletal issues, dietary and nutritional health, and prostate and urological impacts will all be covered at the Men’s Health Community Event being run by the Orana Mall Pharmacy, retail manager Leisa Stone explained.
“This is the first one we’ve held. Funding enquiries go out every year from the PHN (Primary Health Network), and the pharmacy group we’re in applied,” Leisa said.
“It’s covering a whole range of men’s health issues, everything or anything you want to know about, come along,” she added.
Speakers at the two-hour presentation will cover a range of specialist men’s health issues. An overall presentation will be given by Canberra pharmacist Brad Butt, founder of the Men’s Health Downunder group which was established to address the growing need for men to have access to professional expertise about their specific health issues – without any embarrassment or privacy concerns.
Mr Butt will discuss everything from prostate issues, incontinence, erectile disfunction, to general health for the older man.
Alice Flannery will also make a presentation on the benefits of naturopathy, vitamins and minerals, herbal medicine, dietary requirements, and holistic health for all men.
Men’s Health Physiotherapist, Jamie Boulding, will discuss issues to do with the importance of
maintaining muscular and skeletal health for men of any age, at a time when poor posture, sedentary lifestyles and lack of activity can impact us all. Jamie specialises in men’s health physio services for pre- and post-prostate surgery that includes ultrasound assessment of the pelvic floor musculature and individualised treatment plans for potential post-surgery complications.
The Orana Mall Pharmacy’s very own Sleep Apnoea Nurse, Peta Evans, will also explain the impact that this condition – disturbed and broken rest, snoring and poor daytime concentration – can have on men’s health. She will also chat about the indicators of other major health conditions that sleep apnoea suggests. Peta is also a Registered Nurse and will be talking about signs and symptoms of sleep apnoea, risks, treatment, different types of apnoea, and its referral process.
Uzair Qamar, an Intern Pharmacist who has been working at Orana Mall for 12 months and who is originally from New Zealand, will MC the event, being held at Dubbo Golf Club on Sunday, July 28, from 4-6pm with light refreshments provided.
“We’ll also be giving out free goodie bags with samples and pamphlets to take away, and there’ll be a raffle for lucky door prizes,” Leisa said.
Attendees are asked to scan the QR Code on the event flyer to book their spot, which directs to: www. eventbrite.com/e/orana-mall-pharmacy-mens-health-event-tickets-929525795677
“They can also drop in to the Pharmacy and let us know, or give us a call on 6882 7677,” she concluded.
The co-mingled recycling service (yellow bin) audit, identified that 20 per cent of contents were contamination, with the main contributor being recycled materials placed in non-recyclable bags.
Meanwhile, the FOGO service (green
The general waste service (red bin) audit identified that 59 per cent of bin contents could be diverted to the Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) green bin (38 per cent), recyclables and container deposit schemes, such as Return and Earn (21 per cent).
“With all waste products in our community, our aim is to ‘reduce, re-use, recycle’ at all times,” Cr Ivey said.
“Out of all these, though, ‘reduce’ is the key one that we’d like to see people adopt,” he concluded.
ABOVE: Tonnes of green organic waste collected, processed, and available for re-use, from Council’s Food Organics And Garden Organics (FOGO) 240-litre bins collected weekly. LEFT: Dubbo Regional Council would love to see as much clean organic waste as possible go into the green waste bins, not the red-top bins.
PHOTOS: DUBBO REGIONAL COUNCIL
Kidzfix drives essential support for kids’ ear health
BIRTHDAYS
Ktion, in cooperation with Dubbo City Toyota, at the recent Dubbo Kangaroo Rugby family day at Victoria Park.
This included the presentation
HEBP), and that’s vital money that will go towards calibrating their machines and keep them accurate for kids’ hearing tests.
The two automatic audiometers used on the Hear Our Hearts bus
scribes itself as “a boutique driving adventure designed to explore parts of Australia that are off the beaten track” while raising money for worthy local causes.
Jul 25: Glenn Murcutt, architect, 88. Bruce Woodley, guitarist of The Seekers, 82. Iman Abdulmajid, model-actress, 69. Matt LeBlanc , Joey Tribbiani on Friends, 58. Annastacia Palaszczuk , former Queensland premier, 55. Louise Brown, world’s first test tube baby, 46. Amy Adams, US singer, 45.
Jul 26: Junie Morosi, part of 1970s politics, 91. John Howard, 25th prime minister, 85. Mick Jagger, Rolling Stones singer, 81. Helen Mirren, English actress, 79. Chris Dawson, controversial former footy player, 76. Mark Seymour, Hunters & Collectors musician, 68. Wayne Grady, pro golfer, 67. Kevin Spacey, US actor, 65. Sandra Bullock , US actress, 60. Nathan Buckley, AFL player, 52. Kate Beckinsale, British actress, 51. Rebecca St James, Australian-born singer, 47. Jul 27: Yahoo Serious, ac tor, 71. Allan Border, cricketer, 69. Julian McMahon, actor, 56. Matthew Johns, footy player, 53. Kate Kendall, actress, 51. Gorden Tallis, footy player, 51. Jonathan Rhys-Meyers, Irish actor, 47. Indiana Evans, actress, 34.
Jul 28: Sir Garfield Sobers , West Indies cricketer, 88. Jim Davis, Garfield cartoonist, 79. Ross Garnaut, economics professor, 78. Sir Peter Cosgrove, former Governor-General, 77. Glenn A Baker, rock music historian, 72. Zoe Foster Blake, author, 44. Sam Dastyari, former politician, 42. Jul 29: Doug Ashdown, singer-songwriter, 82. Col Elliott, comedian, 75. Corinne Dibnah, golfer, 62. Marise Payne, politician, 61. Martina McBride, US country singer, 58. Fernando Alonso, Spanish Formula 1 driver, 43.
Jul 30: Paul Anka , Canadian-born singer, 83. Arnold Schwarzenegger, Austrian-born actor, 77. Kate Bush, British singer, 66. Laurence Fishburne, US actor, 63. Lisa Kudrow, US actress, 61. Allan Langer, footy player, 58. Simon Baker, actor, 55. Hilary Swank , US actress, 50. Yvonne Strahovski, actress, 42. Matthew Scott footy player, 39. Jul 31: Heather McKay, s quash champion, 83. Russell Morris, Aussie singer, 76. Evonne Goolagong Cawley, tennis champion, 73. Ernie Dingo, TV presenter, 68. Wesley Snipes, US actor, 62. Fatboy Slim, British musician, 61. JK Rowling , British author, 59. Nathan Brown, NRL coach, 51. Asher Keddie, actress, 50. Sam Hammington, New Zealand-Australian comedian, 47. Brittany Byrnes, actress, 37. Victoria Azarenka Belarusian tennis player, 35.
Donna & Sam from the Hear Our Heart Ear Bus Project (HoHEBP), Ben Thompson from Dubbo City Toyota with Coco, David Ward who fundraises via the KidzFix rally, Sue & Lucy, Michaela and Nicole (HoHEBP). PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS
KiDZ ONLY!
WHAT KIDS SAY
How old are you? Four
What are you really good at? I’m good at cooking cookies and I put candy in it
What is your favourite food in the whole world? Apples What makes you laugh? My Dad always makes me laugh because he tickles me
Who is the boss in your family? Mum and Dad
Do you have a favourite story book character? I love Peppa Pig
What is your favourite sport or game? It's a dinosaur game where you have to run away from it
Which zoo animal would you like to take home as a pet?
An Elephant. I will keep it outside with the door locked so it can’t escape.
CALEB
Turning 11 on 28th July
Happy Birthday Caleb! Love Mum, Dad, Isaac and Grace.
CHARLIE BRAGGER
A huge Happy Birthday to our fabulous boy, we hope you have a wonderful 6th year!
Love always, Mum and Dad xxx
KNOW A BIRTHDAY CHILD THIS MONTH?
Send in a photo, details and a short birthday wish. myentry@dubbophotonews.com.au
What would you like to do as a job when you are grown up? I want to cook cookies in the oven and put sprinkles on them. What is you favourite song? Twinkle Twinkle Little Star u ek before. tured her ? a Mall has a to
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
Knock, knock!
Doughnut. Who’s there?
Doughnut who?!
Doughnut forget to open the door!
NAIDOC Day Dubbo 2024
By KEN SMITH
Sunshine and blue sky, the weather turning on our best winter’s day for this year’s NAIDOC Day held in Victoria Park recently, those who attended enjoying the fun, food, information and community.
NAIDOC Day 2024 Community Victoria Park Dubbo Tanya and Chelsea
Uniting – Jordan, Donna, Rachelle and KylieBeau and Audrey Crittenden
Dubbo 280 - Captain Steve Carlin, Ryan Macintosh, William Tandy and Mark Williams
Uniting – Sal Barraclough, Joshua Hennessy, Jade West, Shannon Doyle and Bec Portland
Western Mitigation NSW Rural Fire Service - Nglan, Sam, Beth, Dion and Rob
Mission Australia – Jamie McDermott and Ally NiemeyerLegal Aid NSW - Cammy SkuthorpeCutting the NAIDOC Day CakeValder Boyd – Aged Care Advocate Senior’s Rights Service
Aboriginal Legal Service - Shari Gibbs, Kristie Burge and Collette Vincent (ACFAS)
Lorna and Isla Brennan
Katie and Meg, Joblink Plus Dubbo
Wellington Arts ‘Threatened Species’ exhibit a huge success
By COLIN ROUSE
Wellington Arts’ annual Threatened Species competition and exhibition was again a great success.
Over 150 people attended the event which drew attention to the plight of many Australian endangered species of flora and fauna.
The competition attracted entries from the Wellington region, across NSW, and interstate.
Wellington choristers Stray Notes entertained the guests as they enjoyed canapes and wine.
The exhibition can be viewed until September 14.
Wellington Choristers “Stray Notes”
Maree Williams with her painting “Platypus”
Damian Stevenson, Sam Littlehales, Rebecca Wilkinson, Anne McKay and Jacob Sabin
Siblings, Miller Rouse and Sophia Redfern
Kirsten Purcell, Sam Wynn, Renee Shepherd, Lil Butler and Grace Butler
Ken Vodden, Tony Graham and Graham Whiteley
Greta Edwards, Bill Edwards and Tally Edwards
Alicia Leggett and Rachel MacSmith
Michelle Barkley, Michelle Staggs, Kaylen Staggs and Brooke Thompson
IN FOCUS
THUMBS UP!
Thumbs up to the lovely, efficient and caring nurses on night duty at Wellington Hospital a few weeks ago, particularly Rachel and Cassie. From a very grateful patient.
Thumbs up to the young people who are so tolerant and understanding with us elderly when we have trouble with technology, which is quite common in my case. Thank you.
Thumbs up to Lee at Muki Cafe on Cobra Street. Great friendly service, fabulous food and very welcoming to all.
Thumbs up to Zander and Dakota from Axxis Technology for their help with my phone when I had problems with the charger, was suff ering from Covid and could not get into town. Their assistance was much appreciated.
Thumbs up to Tracy and the catering crew at Inland Petroleum on Cobra Street, for the wonderful spread they prepared recently for an afternoon tea for a funeral.
Thumbs up to Dubbo Library on their recent author event with Kyra Geddes. We enjoyed a fascinating discussion on Australian history and literature.
Thumbs up to Tim and Erin from the Fire Brigade for their FREE smoke alarm service. They were fantastic and their service was so easy to book.
Thumbs up to Dubbo Regional Council for displaying four of our iconic rhinos outside the DRC Works Depot on Hawthorn Street. It’s a great initiative led by DRC staff on Hawthorn Street. Be sure to drive by and take a look.
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.
Local ladies getting their hands dirty, with boots on the ground for building industry
Getting their hands dirty for a career in the construction industry, a total of eight trainees, took part in the BOOTS (Building Opportunities through Outreach Training and Support) “Women in Construction” program.
By DAVID DIXON
Building is booming in the Golden West, with a group of local ladies recently getting their hands dirty, learning the basics of the industry during a three-week training project.
A total of eight trainees took part in the BOOTS (Building Opportunities through Outreach Train- ing and Support) ‘Women in Construction’ program and are now ready for potential employment in the construction industry.
The program involves learning to communicate effectively in the workplace, as well as Work Health and Safety policies and proce-
dures. The participants also gained practical skills including operating an excavator, using hand and power tools, and preparing for employment such as CV writing and interview readiness.
“The BOOTS program has been a great initiative, and provides an opportunity for local women who are looking to enter the workforce or transition to the construction industry,” Dubbo Regional Mayor Councillor Mathew Dickerson said.
“Dubbo Regional Council has invested funding into this program which aims to increase employability of our local residents within the construction industry and boost the number of women
in construction,” he added.
The initiative was designed to offer the entrants a handup in what is a traditionally male-dominated career and as a form of entry to one of our real growth employment areas.
“The program aims to help prepare candidates to begin employment in the local construction industry, and assists them with potential employment opportunities after the program ends,” Cr Dickerson said. “The BOOTS program is a great example of collaboration between government organisations, industry and education and training providers that mutually benefits both participants and the construction
industry,” he concluded.
Successful participants of the program can now move to the next phase, which may include being offered a position at Abergeldie Complex Infrastructure, work experience at Dubbo Regional Council, or positions with the various sub-contractors who have been with the participants throughout the program.
The Abergeldie Complex Infrastructure BOOTS ‘Women in Construction’ program is sponsored by Dubbo Regional Council and the NSW Department of Education. Training is provided by TAFE NSW and the lead providers are VERTO, Skillset, and Workforce Australia.
Eligible artists must live or practise within a 200-kilometre radius of Dubbo. HomeGround applications close 13 September 2024. For information and application forms visit westernplainsculturalcentre.org
library
For more information and to access the resources visit mrl.nsw.gov.au/hsc The Western Plains Cultural Centre (WPCC) welcomes artists to apply for the next round of HomeGround, a professional development program for emerging artists.
Find entire subject summaries that cover everything you need to know. The library offers spaces to study, free wifi and is open after school and on weekends.
Learning basic construction skills for a potential career in the booming building industry, the eight graduates of the BOOTS ‘Women in Construction’ program, with the sponsors and training providers of the program. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED.
This brand new three-bedroom family home is flawlessly presented and ready to occupy. Situated on a high block with unique views over Southlakes Estate, 11 Cove Circ, boasts quality inclusions alongside an open plan design designed to maxmise space and natural light.
An open plan kitchen, made for entertaining and is completed by s butler’s pantry, stone bench tops and SMEG appliances. The kitchen flows effortlessly into the open plan living and dining area with views into the outdoor entertainment area. More information on Southlake’s Estate is available by calling 1300 01 MAAS.
SALE
FOR INSPECTION
This brand new three-bedroom family home is flawlessly presented and ready to occupy. Situated on a high block with unique views over Southlakes Estate, 11 Cove Circ, boasts quality inclusions alongside an open plan design designed to maxmise space and natural light.
An open plan kitchen, made for entertaining and is completed by s butler’s pantry, stone bench tops and SMEG appliances. The kitchen flows effortlessly into the open plan living and dining area with views into the outdoor entertainment area.
FEATURES:
• Master bedroom featuring an ensuite and walk-in-robe equipped with hanging space and shelving
• Bed two and three are sizable bedrooms with built-in-robes
FOR INSPECTION 9:30am Sat 27th
•
• Modern Kitchen with a walk-in pantry and quality SMEG appliances, complete with a microwave nook and stone bench tops
• Stylish open plan living and dining area continuing onto the undercover alfresco area
• Main bathroom with large bathtub and shower and a separate toilet
• Separate laundry
• Double car garage with remote and internal access
• Enclosed minimal maintenance yard with irrigation system
Before your open home, walk through your house with your real estate agent to ensure nothing has been overlooked.
Are you planning an open home to showcase your property to potential buyers? If so, careful planning is a must. With the help of your real estate agent, follow these tips to ensure your open home is a success and your house is safe.
SECURE YOUR VALUABLES
Before the open home, make sure belongings like mobile phones, tablets, jewellery, medication, personal documents and keys are out of sight and out of reach. This reduces the risk of someone stealing or damaging your valuables.
KEEP YOUR PETS OUT OF THE WAY
If you have pets, keep them out of the way during the open home. If you can, drop your pets off at a relative or friend’s house so they’re completely off the property. This prevents distractions and allows potential buyers to focus on your home.
COLLABORATE WITH YOUR REAL ESTATE AGENT
Before the open home, walk through your home with your real estate agent to ensure nothing has been overlooked. After the visit, do another inspection to ensure all the windows are locked and nothing is missing.
Taking these precautions and working with your real estate agent will increase the chances of a successful open home and present your property in the best possible light. On your marks, get set, sell!
The Narromine Public School dancers put on an amazing show at the City of Dubbo Eisteddfod.
Stage 1. PHOTOS: NARROMINE PUBLIC SCHOOL.
Stage 2
Stage 3 cultural boys group
Stage 3
Stage 3 cultural girls group
Grab (4)
Pathological self-admirer (9) 3 Greens (5)
Military unit (8)
Examiner of accounts (7)
Smog (5)
All (9)
Collapse (4)
Assumes the worst (9)
Across the
Depraved (8)
Peek (coll) (4-3)
Document (5)
Revise (a piece of writing) (4)
Generous (5)
Spool (4)
1.
QUICK QUIZ
2. The novel A Town Called Alice was written by which author?
3. Escapologist Harry Houdini performed what feat first in Australian history?
4. Danny McGuire is played by which actor in the film Xanadu?
5. Athena is the Greek goddess of what?
6. What does a campanologist play?
7. How many musicals has Andrew Lloyd Webber (pictured) created?
8. Which country is the leading producer of oranges worldwide?
9. Jules Verne, Victor Hugo and George Sand were all what?
10. A standard grand piano has how many keys?
To keep salt from coming out of a saltshaker too quickly, add some plain, uncooked white rice to the salt. The large grains of rice will block some of the holes, causing less salt to come out with each shake.
ARIES: You’ll be worried about money this week, so y ou’ll work hard to improve your situation. You may be able to put together the necessary funds to achieve a big dream or at least pay off some of your debt.
TAURUS: You’ll feel inspired to take a new dir ection in life. You’ll have the determination to transform your reality altogether. You’ll start fresh and finish a significant project.
GEMINI: You must rest after being in a large cr owd. You prefer passive and relaxing activities while on holiday, such as visiting museums and
walking in nature.
CANCER: You’ll bring many people together by organising a surprising event. This project will expand your social circle. You may become quite popular in your part of the community or on social media.
LEO: You’ll spontaneously head off into the unk nown. You could seriously consider returning to school or starting a new career in line with your values. At the very least, you’ll be inspired to travel.
VIRGO: You must make changes to improve your inner w ell-being. You may adopt a more spiritual lifestyle. You could also plan a pilgrimage to explore
the depths of your soul.
LIBRA: You may spend too much money on your cr edit card while away from home. Although you’re concerned about your finances, you’ll continue being a little frivolous before reigning things in.
SCORPIO: You should wait until after your next holidays or break before making any big decisions. Take the time to weigh the pros and cons. This will remove some pressure that could lead you to make regrettable choices.
SAGITTARIUS: Many details will require your attent ion between tasks at work and home. You’ll need to
deep-clean your home to clear your mind.
CAPRICORN: You’ll attend shows and artistic e vents. All eyes will be on you as you perform, receiving well-deserved applause.
AQUARIUS: A family story could hold your attention, or perhaps just decorating your home. Away from work, the comfort of home and the company of family will bring you happiness.
PISCES: You have a way with words. This will get y ou noticed on the phone and social media. You’ll enjoy chiming in on various subjects. You’ll be on the move a lot, which will satisfy your curiosity.
The luckiest signs this week: Cancer, Leo and Virgo
WUMO by Wulff & Morgenthaler
INSANITY STREAK
by Tony Lopes
OUT ON A LIMB
by Gary Kopervas
THE SPATS
by Jeff Pickering
TIP OF THE WEEK
by JoAnn Derson
Joanne Austen Brown
Postcard 20
Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland. What a magicalplace And I adore this photo
Situated at the confluence of 3 Sea Lochs it has been a very importantplace in Scotland’s history. Built originally in the 13th century, it became a strong hold for Clan Mackenzie and the clan Macrae, during the Jacobite rebellions In 1719 the English, with their war ships, destroyed the castle. It laid in ruin for over 200years. Then, between 1919 and 1932 Lt. Col. John MacraeGilstrap rebuilt the castle to its original design He, however, added the bridge to allow access to the island on which it was built It is now the 3rd most visited Castle in Scotland but has to be the most beautiful due to its setting. It is one of my favorite buildings and I love to visit it Each time Igo, my photos show off a different mood of the castle A place I love to visit more than once
2024 Inner Wheel hosts changeover lunch
Contributed by THE CLUB
Members and partners from Bathurst, Blayney, Cowra, Dubbo and Orange celebrated the combined Inner Wheel A50 District and Dubbo Club changeovers at Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s Savannah Room.
At the conclusion of morning tea members attended the District Business Meeting where District Executive presented their reports and Club Presidents reported on club fundraising and social activities for the year.
After lunch the District changeover took place.
District chairman Janet Power from the Blayney Club inducted Dubbo member Barbara Howells as Chairman for 2024-2025. In her response Barbara introduced her Executive and the International Theme for the year which is ‘Heartbeat of Humanity’.
Dubbo’s president Sue Furnell thanked her Executive and inducted Denise Gough as President of the Dubbo Club for 2024-2025.
Denise thanked Sue and presented her Executive.
It has been an exciting year for Inner Wheel with the International Convention being held in Manchester to celebrate the 100 years since the first club was chartered in Manchester.
It was a wonderful day of friendship!
For further information about Inner Wheel Australia, please contact www.innerwheelaustralia@gmail.com
Joanne Murphy and Janet Power Laurie, Ivor, Bob, Gareth, Tom, Allan, Graham and John
David Cuming (Orange) and Sue Furnell (Dubbo)
Denise Gough, Meryl Usback, Robyn Earl and Margaret HughesTricia Cuming, Jenny Banfield and Christine Parker
Di McKeowen, Sandra Spackman and Denise CarmichaelHelen McLean and Sandra Spackman
Graham and Christine Parker
Melissah Quinn and Jayne Williams
THE DIARY
ON THIS WEEK
Above Board Gamers: SECOND and FOURTH
Thursday of the month, 6pm, Devil’s Hollow Brewery. Alan 0432 278 235
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, corner Swift St and Mitchell Highway, Wellington. Preloved books, Jigsaw puzzles, Cds, DVD’s and now board games with the money raised going to Charities that Club members choose.
COMING SOON
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. CPSA Dubbo: A cordial invitation is extended to you to attend the CPSA meeting Friday 9th August at 10am. Venue Dubbo RSL Guest Speaker Clr Richard Ivey Enquiries Barb 0427251121
Dubbo Uniting Church: Books Plants BBQ & Vintage Saturday 17 August 8am to 1pm at the Dubbo Uniting Church, 64 Church Street Dubbo. Market style event and everyone’s invited to attend.
Dubbo Uniting Church: Round the Kitchen Table. Classic high tea event on Saturday 19 September from 2-4pm at the Wesley Community Centre. Entertainment, food, and display all included in the ticket: $20 available on 123 Tix.
Ladies Luncheon: Will be held Saturday August 3, 12 noon at the Vietnamese House. 215 Macquarie Street Dubbo. Contact Bev on 68845401 by August 1, if interested.
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
Send your community event info to diary@dubbophotonews.com.au or phone 6885 4433
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.
Diary entries need to be 40 words or less, and are only for not-for-profit community groups . Placement will be at the editor’s discretion and subject to space availability – because Diary listings are free! Please include your daytime phone number and/or address when submitting details. Entries close 10am Tuesday for that Thursday’s edition.
Orana Writers’ Hub Ist Saturday of the month 101. 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.
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
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: 9am12pm, Cnr of High and Palmer Streets. New members welcome
Reach Out & Discussion Group for people with Eating Disorders Expressions of Interest: Tuesdays. Venue TBA. Ph: 0455255137 after midday to express interest.
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, 10.30am-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: 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 Bereavement Group: Wednesdays, by expressions of interest. Please contact 0455 255 137 after midday.
Walter T. Grant Seniors Social Club: 9am-2pm, Scout’s Hall, Welchman Street. $8 per day. BYO lunch. Pre-lunch cards and games, post-lunch bingo. Jan Miller 0418 255 217 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
GOLD, GOLD FOR DUBBO TOUCH GOLD, GOLD FOR AUSTRALIA
By GEOFF MANN
Madi Drew confirmed her status as one of Australia’s best-ever Touch players, claiming gold in her third Women’s Opens at the World Cup in Birmingham; with Dubbo Touch President, Nic Grose, sporting a similar-coloured medal on her debut in her forties.
Both athletes have had a stunning series in an Australian combination that won all but one of the titles on offer, confirming our status as the best nursery in the world for the sport.
Nic says the win in Birmingham tops-off a magnificent season for Dubbo Touch, with another former player, Dee Smith from Coonamble, who played here before moving to Canberra to teach and coach the ACT Raiders 18s Girls in the National Youth Competition Youth Competition.
Both the Open Women’s and 40s teams went through undefeated but Nic says the biggest cheer was at the village where they were staying when the Men’s 55s and 50s returned from the first night of finals with their winners medals draped around their necks.
“We were all celebrating the strength and endurance of these athletes who have continued to shine in a sport that knows no chronological end time,” Nic said.
“One of the blokes was playing his 100th game for Australia in the final, so it was a
hugely-special moment!” she added.
Nic has been touring in Europe with her family leading into the World Cup, and will spend a few days in London before home this weekend.
She is not sure if it will be a “one-anddone” World Cup although the taste of international competition is very sweet and she may just be tempted.
“I won’t say ‘never’, because they’ll call me Johnny Farnham if I come back,” she laughed.
Nic did reveal however that she has been appointed Assistant Coach for next year’s State of Origin Touch matches against Qld. Nic pointed-out there were at least three western referees involved in the World Cup, the pinnacle for all who of ficiate. Ben Harris from Mudgee was one of those locals that Hornets rep teams have had plenty of contact with over the years.
“We’d all like to thanks those who have supported us from day one when we were involved in selection trials, through the State Cup here in our city and every step of the way in Birmingham,” Nic said.
“We are so grateful and could not have achieved what we did without your kind words and well wishes,” she concluded.
Congratulations Nic and Madi, You have done us proud!
Craig Granger — the brave local cyclist who simply cannot be stopped
GEOFF MANN
MECHANIC and two-wheel cycling
fanatic, Crag Granger, has faced many challenges in his life, but the diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis, was one he had not foreseen.
As a regular with Dubbo Cycle Club competing on the track and road circuits, Craig built a love for the sport, the people, and the roads around our region. He would often pedal his way to Wellington to climb Mt Arthur and even to Orange and Bathurst to watch his club mates compete.
MS dealt the husband and father a cruel hand, however, affecting his
Close friend Ange Croft, who has relied on Craig and Karen for support as her daughter Molly has bat-
tled – successfully – osteosarcoma.
She and husband John are full of admiration for their friend.
“Craig struggles to walk some days, but getting on his bike and riding to Cobar and back, is not a problem,” Ange said.
“He competed in the Tour De OROC, raising funds with a peloton of businesspeople and committed citizens to raise funds for the Macquarie Homestay facility.”
Now he has decided to do the whole ride again – solo!
“Craig decided to do the trip again because he believes in the community support Macquarie Homestay provides for people out west who need somewhere to stay when they are in need of medical care or are visiting loved ones,” Ange explained.
He also has plans to re-do the Butterfly Ride he did for Molly several years ago, to coincide with her 18th birthday.
“Craig is mapping-out a butterfly-shaped route that he will ride again starting this Sunday, the day Molly turns 18.
“His young friend was only 12 when she was diagnosed with bone cancer, and he and Karen have been with her every step of the way through massive treatments and many surgeries so it is something he offered to do without hesitation,” Ange said.
Craig’s ride is being tracked on the ALT Riding Facebook page as well as on his own page.
Craig will attend Molly’s 18th at the Commercial Hotel on Saturday” “come hell or high water”!
Madi Drew and Nic Grose. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
in Paddington on April 16, 1934. His Dad, Arthur was a horse trainer, a passion inherited by the sports-mad youngster; his Mum, Gertrude Moran. Sadly, Reg lost his father when he was just four-years-old.
Reg had an older sister, Pat and, when Gertrude married Arthur Ford 10 years later, the teenager welcomed a step-brother, Kevin (deceased).
Reg was educated at De La Salle in Ashfield and at Oakhill College, before completing his La Sallian schooling in Orange and then Dubbo.
The young lad commenced his working life at 2DU as an assistant accountant in 1952. Two years later, he took on the role as Accountant and also began to convert his love of sport into a broadcasting career.
He advanced from sports caller and presenter to Company Secretary with Western Broadcasters in 1956, and a decade later, he was promoted to Station Manager.
Reg held this prestigious position as manager of the region’s only radio station until the arrival of ABC and then Star FM, leading the transition from the electronic to the
Terry and
“the threeo’clock plane”
“During the ‘50s and ‘60s, Reg called horse races, trots, and rugby league, a ‘duty’ he fulfilled after swimming with the Ducks every Sunday morning!” Mike said.
“He maintained his interest throughout his long life, and oversaw the arrival of broadcasters like Terry Bootle, Kevin James, David Attwood, Gerry and Ray Collins, Phil King, and James Knight until Geoff Mann took on the Sport’s Presenter’s role in 1991”.
Reg met Wilma Stephens when she was nursing at Dubbo Base Hospital, and they married on March 5, 1960. Their two children, Susan and Craig, celebrated the couple’s 60th wedding anniversary with five grand-daughters, who read the Prayers of the Faithful at the Requiem Mass. Nicole, Luci, India, Molly and Isobel have extended the family with twin ‘grandies”, Baye and Milla arriving six decades after Reg and Wilma tied the knot. Sadly, Reg will not be around to lay out the welcome mat for the next baby due shortly, but he had the privilege of watching the little one growing in the womb.
By GEOFF MANN
ONE of those who came to celebrate the life of Reg Ferguson was local broadcasting, racing and trotting personality, Terry Bootle.
Terry is remembered for his colourful calls of sporting events, but is probably best-remembered for his quips on a Sunday afternoon as the Ansett or TAA planes flew across the city.
asked me if the 3 o’clock plane had been on time today,” he laughed.
In the sixties and seventies,
Reg suffered a bout of mumps. “I did 10 or more Dubbo Sportsperson of the Year events as MC and live to air on 2DU and was
to catch up with Bomber, Singy, Peach and the Macquarie players on their Old Boys Day last weekend”.
Reg Ferguson, local radio announcer and Dubbo Duck. PHOTOS: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS AND SUPPLIED
RAISA: DUBBO’S “MASTERFUL” RUNNER
By GEOFF MANN
OVER the years, these pages have brought to life the story of a Russion-born Chinese and traditional medicine practitioner who “found ‘’ running in her mid-fifties.
That athlete, Raisa Kolesnikova, has now completed her sixth Marathon Major around the World – Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York. Unphased by the COVID pandemic, this determined lady pulled on her shoes and pounded the pavements at home, before returning to her mission and is now the proud bearer of all six medals
Now she is preparing for another massive undertaking. Raisa will represent Australia at the World Masters Championships in Gothenburg, Sweden next month. She is part of a 112 green-and-gold contingent racing against more than 8000 competitors aged from 35–100-years-old.
The ever optimistic “running lady”, says it is an honour she never anticipated when she began jogging around South Dubbo Oval at the age of 56.
“I am very excited to be a part of the Masters’, to compete with so many other athletes and enjoy the mix of people, abilities and cultures.
“It will be a challenge and is keeping me motivated to train hard and to be fit and healthy for life,” Raisa said.
Her pathway to the Masters and an Australian shirt, has come through personal training, competing in the Dubbo Stampede, City to Surf, Dubbo Zoofari and each week in the local Parkrun.
Raisa reflected on her major achievement.
“Completing my Abbott Six Star World Marathons Major, was not something that I ever thought I could do, until I started, now I am in a select group who have run the six events. I am so proud of myself having completed each race in under four hours!”
Now she has adjusted her distance from marathons to a challenging program of middle-distance and “sprints”.
“At the Australian Master Championships earlier this year, I was rewarded with a silver medal in the 10,000-metres and bronze in both the 800-metres and 400-metres.
“I have been blown away by my success on the track in such a short time, especially over the shorter distances,” Raisa smiled.
“Emigrating from China 45 years ago, I would not have imagined that I could ever run a business and marathons,” shared Raisa.
“Now, to be able to represent my country, Australia, and join with 8000 world athletes, is one of the happiest and proudest things I have ever done.”
“Fordy” gets his big 250, as the mighty Dee’s, sneak home against “Panthers”
VICTORY for Dubbo Demons Tier Two Men at the weekend, capped-off a day of celebrations for long-time player Brendan Ford with “Fordy” celebrating his 250th game with the club.
In the end result, the mighty Dee‘s fought hard against the Parkes Panthers at South Dubbo Oval, winning by a razor-thin 10.5.65 to 7.8.50 scoreline.
The result culminated a 24-year career in the sport which started when Brendan first took-up Auskick at the age of eight 8.
Mum Jenny recalls driving him around the Central West for his junior years, at a time when towns like Mudgee and Young all had teams in the competition.
club for more than 40 years, struggles to remember a time before Brendan was involved with the Demons.
“He’s always reliable, when travelling away, you’d always know he’d be there” Knagge said.
“If we had another 20 guys like him, the Club would be much better,” he added.
Fordy’s commitment extends beyond the playing field – he’s also putting in the work behind the scenes in the Club Committee.
His current role as Canteen Coordinator is a family affair. Mum Jenny, and sister Danielle, can be found behind the grill-and-till at every home game.
This weekend though, Jenny had one eye on the game as Brendan ran on for his milestone.
“To my delight, I received an official letter that I had qualified for the Boston Marathon.
“That cemented my love of the 42.2km journey on my feet, and I have now run many in Australia and around the world.”
She extended her distances over the years but the marathon bug tookover in Canberra.
STRANGE SYNERGY IN STATE OF ORIGIN
Raisa and her husband, Adam Carter, a chiropractor have run their businesses side-by-side over the past 35 years. Along the way they have reared three children, now adults making their way in the world.
“I call Australia my country; Dubbo my home,” she beamed.
You can follow Raisa’s progress or find out more information on the World Masters on the web site: www.2024wmac.com
By GEOFF MANN
When Isaah Yeo, Connor Watson, and 18th man, Matt Burton, turned-up in their Blues guernseys at Suncorp Stadium last week, they were following in the path of another famous Dubbo son, Andrew “Bobcat” Ryan. Andrew was part of the 2005 Squad that trained in Dubbo in the week leading-up to a famous victory at the-then Lang Park. The comeback of Andrew Johns unfolded at Apex Oval a few days before the match, when Trent Barrett withdrew with injury and NSW recorded a famous victory to be only the second team to win a decider in the Brisbane cauldron.
This year, the Canterbury Bulldogs premiership-winning captain and Kangaroo,
Ryan coached NSW 19s to a third straight and hard-fought 14-10 win over the Maroons at Leichardt Oval last month.
The 2024 Blues team linked indelibly with the Western Rams when Peter McDonald Premiership leaders the Mudgee Dragons were bussed into the Blues camp on the Blue Mountains and provided an opposed training session with Yeoy, “Watto” and Canterbury superstar, “Burto.”
Maybe it is something in the air in the mountains and west of the sandstone curtain because it is a unique winning record attached to our Western Division.
And it comes on the 50th Anniversary of Western’s win in the first Amco Cup in 1974!
Some of those smaller clubs have since folded and, while many players have come and gone, Fordy recalls playing junior grand finals against men who are now the backbone of the Tier One teams across the region. His advice for kids interested in the sport is to: “just get into it”.
Long-time coach, Terry Lyons is credited with teaching him everything he knows about the sport, and he has played alongside many men he considers to be great footballers, including Brendan Wall, who went on to play for Geelong in the VFL, as well as Steward Todd and Mick Daly, who captained the Demons First Grade teams.
He was also inspired by the Moody brothers – Andrew, Eric, and Joshua – who were all brilliant players with completely different playing styles.
While he has celebrated many milestones with the club, his 100th Tier One game stands-out in his memory as a personal highlight, celebrating a win on the road with his beloved club.
Playing away games for so many years, Fordy has certainly racked-up tens of thousands of kilometres on the road.
Club Secretary, Joe Knagge, who has been with the
“He just loves it, he never gets tired of playing and always looks forward to the season starting”, she said.
“He could still be playing when he’s 60!,” Mum added.
“Let’s keep that one open, I dunno’ about that,” Fordy laughed when told of his Mum’s prediction.
From inside the canteen, the club song booms through the walls as the men celebrate in the change-rooms. Danielle sits with a smile on her face as the number is belted-out.
“She loves to hear the song after a win” Jenny says. Fordy himself is positive about the current season.
“The women and men both have lots of growth this year, and the Reserves are presenting a strong future for the club”.
While the Tier Two men have some hard work to do in the remainder of the season, the Tier One and Women’s teams are sitting well for finals contention. There will be a few more opportunities to sing the team song ahead of them yet. The next round will be played in Orange this weekend for their annual RUOK round, supporting mental health and suicide prevention.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Pennants bright start with wins in all weekend games
Day that “Thirsty” Morrow and “Bobcat” called the 2014 Group 11
By GEOFF MANN
DAVID Morrow, known affectionately as ‘Thirsty”, broadcast one of his last games of rugby league with the ABC from Apex Oval, Dubbo in 2014.
Alongside the now Hall-ofFamer in the box at the top of the Bruce Neads Stand, was former CYMS junior, Andrew Ryan, with his brother Tim coaching CYMS to their eighth premiership in 12 years against a fired-up Parkes team.
Grand Final
Bulldogs when he was at Uni and practised as an accountant in the city, before embarking on his celebrated career.
He covered eight Olympic Games, six Commonwealth Games and was sideline or in the box for 46 seasons of rugby league.
Interestingly, David Morrow was calling the 2004 Grand Final when “Bobcat” made the final match-saving tackle that “let the Dogs out” at the Olympic Stadium.
Contributed by DUBBO CITY BOWLS
GREAT start to the Pennant Season, saw the Dubbo City teams straightup winners in all games they played over the previous weekend.
Things were a bit more sedate in Social Bowls, with a series of good results for time-tested players including the Tuesday Ladies Social Bowls on July 9 where 21 ladies turned-out on the synthetics
Winners were Shirley Marchant, Judy Tighe and Judy O’Conner, defeating Helene Emblen, Pat Sherwin, and Gaye Cottee, with the runners-up Mary Perry and Beryl Hobson over Gloria Young and Merrill O’Sullivan.
In third place, Veronica Morgan, Vicki Hummel, and Laurace Lawson topped Helen Doran, Colleen Ryan, and Karen Greenhalgh, while in fourth place: Sue O’Dea, Sue Armstrong, and Trish Gosper defeated Sue O’Dea, Ruby Stockings, and Therese Gaio, with the “Resters” Therese Gaio and Roby Stockings.
Luck Draw winners were Helene Emblen and Ruby Stockings.
In the Wednesday Men’s Social held on July 10, a total of 32 bowlers turned-out on the synthetics with the winners Rob Pfieffer and Peter Sinclair over Wayne Thompson and Brian Coffey.
Runners-Up were Doug Aldis and Greg Hough over Paul Goodstat and Doug Back and, in third place: Ron Anderson, Eric Satchell, and Alan Davies beat Chris Strojny, Roger Sherwin, and Neil Hayburn.
In fourth place: Frank Seibert, Steve Kelly, and Dannis Jasprizza, defeated Gavin Cullen, Col Teale, and Col Cottee.
In fifth place: Leo Balstad, Ross Pharo, and Matt Quill, defeated Trevor Tink, John Cole, and Tod O’Dea and, in sixth place, Frank Armstrong, Bryan O’Sullivan, and Ian Hobson topped Paddy O’Dea, Alan Stratford, and Mike Twohill, with the closest Game, the fourth place race, with the Rester, Rob Pfieffer.
The Jackpot of $59 was not won,
with the Sponsor of the Week: Kintyre Living – Dubbo.
The Thursday Winter Warmer Mixed Bowls will recommence in the warmer months.
Dubbo City enjoyed a cleansweep in the new Pennants seasons with results including on Saturday and Sunday, July 13–14 in Mid-West Region Pennants:
Men’s Division 2–3
Round 1. Dubbo City def Mudgee (2) 10-0
Round 2. Dubbo City def West Dubbo (3) 9-1
Men’s Division 4
Round 1. Dubbo City def Peak Hill 8-2
Round 2. Dubbo City def Parkes Railway 9–1
Women’s Division 1
Round 1. Dubbo City def West Dubbo 7-0
Round 2. Dubbo City def West Dubbo 6-1
Women’s Division 3-4
Round 1. Dubbo City def Parkes 7-0
Round 2. Dubbo City Bye
David left the ABC to join 2GB after that season, and continued his magnificent career bringing enjoyment and unequalled knowledge of sports across the spectrum that spanned over five decades.
“Thirsty” earned his stripes at CSU Bathurst, calling everything from horse racing, athletics, rugby league and union in a “job” that took him all over the world.
From 1980–2014, he was with the ABC, apart from a brief stint when he toured with the Kangaroos in 1990. His call of Ricky Stuart’s dummy past the English from inside his own quarter and pass to the gargantuan Mal Meninga who loomed beside him and scored the match-winning try brought Australia back from the brink of losing the Ashes, has been replayed many times in recent weeks as listeners have come to grips with the great voice’s passing.
David played with Bathurst
I still remember the conversation the pair had when David crossed to the ecstatic Dubbo player on the sideline:
“Andrew Ryan how does that feel?.
“This is the best feeling ever! I Cannot believe it, I still can’t believe it; Can’t even believe we‘ve won. I cannot believe it. It’s unbelievable mate, I don’t know how we did it but we did. Unbelievable!”
A memorable exchange from two western blokes who were entwined in the commentary box at a Group XI grand final 10 years ago.
Like Bobcat said about the grand final, there are many of us who are still trying to come to grips that the man who charged our emotions on so many occasions has left us following a fairly brief battle with a brain tumour.
Charge your glasses for the man who earned his nickname! Vale David Morrow!
Close games and good play, as the cold stays away,
Contributed by “PISTOL PETE”
A fine total of 38 bowlers assembled pre-game in unusually magnificent winter sunshine last week where it was still a little cool, but nothing a warm jacket could not keep-out!
In the games, a slow-start for the Leo Balstad, Chris Strojny, and Peter Ruzans meant they didn’t trouble the scorers for the first four ends. Meanwhile Col Hume, Allan Stratford, and Brian Jones bagged a five and two doubles to lead by five at the turn.
Pete’s mob grabbed four on the ninth, to trail by a single, before Brian’s mob pocketed another quintuplet, then a triple and a monstrous six with two ends to go. They won 26-11 with all those multiple scores and were named first place team of the morning.
In the next game, Therese Gaio and Gordon Scott, took-on Cheryl Storch and Bryan O’Sullivan in pairs. The former won six of the first eight ends and led 12-3 and went on to a 19-7 win and second spot for the morning.
Neither John Zeb and Ruby
Stockings, nor skip Ricky See, could have foreseen their dreadful opening eight ends against Sue Armstrong, John Davis, and Ian Humphries who led 10-3. The leaders doubled their score for a 20 shots to nine win.
Gary Huggins, Greg Brown, and Matt Quill, had a frustrating first eight, winning five, but watching their opponents Shirley Marchant, Frank Armstrong, and Paul Goodtat rack-up eight shots from three before adding another seven from five of the next eight to claim victory 15-10.
In a surprising opening eight ends, the fancied combo of Ros Joseph, Julie Brown, and Col Cottee added only two singles while Mary Perry, Mel Giddings, and John Cole, had five in the bank. However, Ros, Julie and Col turned the tide, putting 13 shots extra onto thor card to take the win 15-12.
Another game of pairs; another game turned on its head! Steve Kelly and Graham Ross took control early putting 11 shots on the board but the “Two Petes”, Bennison and Sinclair, had six by the eighth. It was a different story after the break
as the Two Ps clawed their way to 16-all with one to play and took the mat with a single on the last. A nail-biter, 17-16 to the “P’s”! In another come-from-behind victory, Chris Castlehouse, Vicki Hummel, and Eric Satchell chased down Di Hildebrant, Ray Strawhan, and Phil Knight. From four shots down, Eric and his team added a triple, a single, and a double, to take a two-shot advantage, but Phil led his team to a stunning equalising run after 13, before Eric’s team levelled-up and won with more ends claimed.
Dubbo City teams were straight-up winners in all games they played over the previous weekend, with the Division Four Pennant Team having two good victories over the weekend. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Fishies and Magpies match-up, in memory of
By GEOFF MANN
Photos by ANGELA O’HEHIR
MICK Wilson was a giant of a man on the football field when he played first grade with Dubbo CYMS as a teenager in the early 1960s. He was an old school, tough-as-nails ball-playing prop, who had a mean boot when called on to kick.
The much-loved CYMS, Group, Western Division, and Country administrator and volunteer, died a few years ago now, but his memory lives-on in the Mick Wilson Memorial Trophy.
This is played between the former “Greens” (now “Fishies”) and Forbes Black-and-Whites Magpies, as a mark of respect for the time he spent with both clubs.
Mick was famously recruited by Cronulla for their first season in the NSWRL First grade Premiership in 1967, lining-up against his old Dubbo club-mate, Wayne Peckham, who had signed with Penrith the same year.
What many don’t know, is that Mick was working in Forbes in 1962 and played with the team who downed Wellington 16-4 in the Grand Final.
He told me many years ago, that there was some controversy
about his eligibility because, under the old “residential” rules, he may have had to play in Parkes where he was living during the week, but he was adamant he would support the blokes he was working with.
CYMS and Forbes have had many grand final battles over the years, with the Magpies scoring a huge upset in the mud at Victoria Park in 1970, while Steve Hall and his great team returned the favour in 1986 when they steam-rolled former St George and Australian superstar, Teddy Goodwin and his team 56-0 at Victoria Park.
The Fishies then won in Forbes in 2001 before enjoying victory three more times at home before Forbes found some revenge with wins in 2018, 2020 (Group 11) and then in the first Peter McDonald Cup Western Rams Premiership in 2022.
CYMS got the points 24-14 on Sunday, in a match where fullback Jeremy Thurston started like a bull at a gate after an enforced two-week layoff. Skipper Jarryn Powyer was almost back to his best after a six-week break from concussion.
CYMS next play Macquarie this Sunday and then Orange CYMS on Sunday, August 4.
ABOVE: The Mick Wilson Memorial trophy. LEFT: Forbes and CYMS “team up” for a post-game photo with the trophy.
LEAGUE TAG: CYMS 24 def Magpies 10
Top four sides are all going head-to-head on Saturday
Contributed by BRYSON LUFF
CHRISTIE and Hood Castlereagh League fans will have the opportunity to watch the top four sides clash in two vital Round 13 contests this Saturday.
The Narromine Jets, currently sitting third on the competition ladder, will be hosting the fourth-placed Gulgong Terriers in a game that may well be pivotal in finalising the final finishing order of the top five, and consequently hosting rights for the games in the final’s series.
The Terriers are coming-off a huge 60-0 win over the Gilgandra Panthers last Saturday, in a game where their fullback, Brad James, contributed more than half of those points, running in five tries plus booting eight goals in very windy conditions for a personal total of 36 points.
Obviously, that win will give them confidence going into the game against Narromine, but the Jets will be a much-tougher proposition, particularly as they are playing at their beloved Cale Oval.
Spectators at Narromine, will also have the opportunity to witness a Jessica Skinner Challenge Cup Ladies League Tag game between the undefeated Jets and the fourth-placed Terrier sides, as well as a Youth League game and Reserve Grade match-up between the two clubs.
Whilst that games at Narromine present themselves as as a quality contests, there is no doubt that the Boronia Cup game between the unbeaten Coolah Roos and the second-placed Cobar Roosters, is the match-
of-the-round, and one that should see Coolah’s Bowen Oval bulging at the seams. This is because there being a high-degree of interest in what many might consider to be a grand final preview, with first playing second as they currently stand on the competition ladder.
The Roosters would like nothing better than to be heading home with the Boronia Cup, after they lost it to the ‘Roos at Cobar when they last met back in Round 4 in a tight 22-16 scoreline.
Cobar also had a big win over the Baradine Magpies last Saturday, coming away as 56-6 victors in the game played at Baradine, whilst Coolah had to survive a second-half rally by the Coonabarabran Unicorns before winning 40-30, after looking well in command in the first half.
Undoubtedly, the ‘Roos will be addressing the need to stay focussed for the full 80 minutes as they go into Saturday’s game against the talented Rooster’s outfit.
Apart from the Boronia Cup, with just
two rounds remaining, Cobar are mathematically still a chance of being minor premiers, if they can win both their games and Coolah loses both theirs, then it would come down to who had the better points differential. At the moment, Coolah has a differential of +267, whilst Cobar’s is +213. The remaining First Grade game this weekend will see the Gilgandra Panthers and the Baradine Magpies clash at Gilgandra, and whilst both clubs are out of semi-final contention, they will be playing for both club pride and the Noonan-Campbell Cup.
Christie and Hood Castlereagh League Round 12 scores
Youth League
Narromine 16 def Binnaway 4
Cobar 38 def Gulgong 18
League Tag
Coolah 60 def Coonabarabran 0
Dunedoo 42 def Coonamble 10
Gulgong 36 def Gilgandra 0.
Baradine 26 def Cobar 18
Narromine 60 def Binnaway 0.
Reserve Grade
Binnaway 18 def Narromine 14
Dunedoo 36 def Coonamble 24
Baradine 38 def Cobar 0
Gulgong drew with Gilgandra (abandoned after player injury in the 29th minute)
First Grade
Coolah 40 def Coonabarabran 30
Gulgong 60 def Gilgandra 0
Cobar 56 def Baradine 6
Round 13 Saturday July 27
Coolah versus Cobar (Boronia Cup Challenge –First Grade).
CHRISTIE AND HOOD CASTLEREAGH LEAGUE
Class act for local star: Gulgong fullback, Brad James playing against Gilgandra last Saturday, scored five tries and kicked eight goals in a 60-0 white-wash. PHOTO: COL BOYD PHOTOGRAPHY
