Dubbo Photo News 08.08.2024 by Panscott Media

Expanding health services in Dubbo

By LANA EATHER

A strategic partnership between

The Royal Rehab Group and Dubbo’s Precision Health Care will enhance the quality of health and wellbeing services in the Dubbo area.

The Royal Rehab Group is one of Australia’s oldest and leading providers of rehabilitation, health care and disability services. As a not-for-profit organisation, the Royal Rehab Group is dedicated to reinvesting in the communities they serve, ensuring sustainable and accessible healthcare for all.

The Royal Rehab Group has a clear purpose, to empower individuals to achieve their full potential.

With a rich heritage spanning over 125 years, The Royal Rehab Group takes great pride in delivering outstanding rehabilitation and disability services, always striving for excellence and is known for its client-centred approach.

Matt Mackay, CEO of the Royal Rehab Group, expressed his excitement about the partnership.

“Our collaboration with Precision Health Care in Dubbo represents a significant milestone in our purpose to enhance health and wellbeing to communities across Australia,” Mr Mackay said.

“By combining our resources and expertise with the established local presence of Precision Health Care, we are poised to deliver an expanded range of high-quality health services to the Dubbo community.”

Established in 2010 and located in the centre of Dubbo, Precision Health Care will continue to provide quality physiotherapy, exer-

services, supported by The Royal Rehab Group.

Dubbo local, and Director and Principal Physiotherapist at Precision Health Care, David Sparshott, said: “I’m excited about what the future holds. Our staff will bene-

of resources, skills and learning opportunities, as well as access to enhanced recruitment through the Royal Rehab Group.

“Most importantly, this partnership will lead to even higher quality care and better patient experi-

WIN

clients and community.”

The partnership is set to deliver several benefits, including shared expertise, enhanced service capabilities, and the development of innovative health and fitness programs tailored to the specific

The partnership will continue to provide tailored solutions to individuals based on their specific needs – whether recovering from an illness or injury, improving function and overall wellbeing, or facilitating community participation.

for your school…

GET YOUR SCHOOL IN THE RUNNING AT THE 2024 DUBBO STAMPEDE

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.

Sunday 25 August 2024

Run With The Herd

Whether you walk, run or wheel, join us on Sunday 25 August 2024

People are registering in droves and the whole event is going to be something to remember.

The only one missing is you! Join the herd and run wild in 2024

Strategic partnership: James Eccles, Matt Mackay, Tony Staveley, David Sparshott, Tricia Leary, Denise Thomas and Glen Stoddart. PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS/KEN SMITH

Where do you work? Ultra Beauty

Do you have a nickname? The girls at work call me Mumma Bear

What do you like to do on the weekends? Travel when I can, otherwise spending time with my family

Do you have any hidden talents or special skills? Amazing at reversing a car

What would you do with 1 million dollars?

Pay out all my family’s debts and make sure they’re all set up

What are you watching at the moment? The Haunting of Blymanor

What would you be lost without? My boys

What music do you like to listen to? All but Death Metal

If you were stranded on a desert island, what 3 things would you bring with you? My 3 boys

What is your all time favourite movie? Titanic

If there was a movie all about you, what genre would it be and who would play you? A comedy - Beth from Yellowstone

Best advice you have ever been given? It is what it is

What do the next 5 years look like for you? Travel more, marriage, buy a house and remain extremely happy.

St Brigid’s puts on the Ritz for oldstyle black-tie ball

By DAVID DIXON

Atriumphant night of dazzling ladies in glorious gowns, dapper gents in trim tuxedos, and happy couples tripping the light fantastic, has assured the return next year of the revived Catholic Ball.

A cheerful crowd of more than 90 attended the ﬁrst of the old-style events held locally in a decade, with thousands of dollars raised towards the eventual installation of air-conditioning to the beauti-

happy to get up and show us how to dance in the old-style ways, like ball-room dancing.

“I introduced myself to a table of older attendees who were used to balls, and they said they are deﬁnitely coming back next year,” Claire revealed.

Then grand old tradition of the formal black-tie ball was reborn at St Brigid’s, so as to install three-phase power to the venue for the air-condi-

ABOVE: Triumph on the night for local ladies of the Catholic Ball Committee. Brooke Winterton, Bibiana Lappa, Claire Bynon, Joanne Winmill, Monique Donoghue, and Petrina Dowton, helping raise money to install air-conditioning at the beautiful old St Brigid’s Hall. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

LEFT: Grand old tradition of the formal black-tie ball was revived at St Brigid’s Hall for the ﬁrst Catholic Ball in Dubbo for a decade.

Top performers at brand new venue Under Western Skies is back

With many live music festivals struggling post-COVID, Dubbo is certainly doing its bit with the welcome return of a renowned concert that celebrates all that’s best in the west.

Under Western Skies is back on Saturday, September 21, at Victoria Park, right in the heart of the city – a brandnew venue for this iconic event which is now in its ﬁfth year. Whilst the location has changed, thankfully the event has not with an afternoon and evening of the freshest current bands, craft beer, food vans, kids’ activities, and a cruisy, laidback vibe in idyllic park surrounds.

The 2024 festival will also

feature an outstanding lineup of top-shelf blues, rock, Americana, pop acts and more, showcasing some of the best local and extraordinary touring performers running around.

Stars include This Way North who were named Music Victoria’s Best Regional Act in 2018. The band has continued their rise through the ranks with an explosive on-stage presence that has delivered “killer” sets at some of Australia’s and Canada’s favourite festivals while sharing the stage with artists including Mavis Staples, Ash Grunwald, Kate Ceberano and Spiderbait.

The Northern Rivers-based Matty Rogers Band also weaves a dynamic musi-

By DAVID DIXON

cal experience of Americana blues-rock drenched in soul. Matty has played with musical royalty such as The Black Sorrows, Ash Grunwald, Toni Childs and Phil Emmanuel, and can count the likes of Xavier Rudd, Ocean Alley and Kasey Chambers among his many supporters.

Joining them are Good Corn Liquor, a country, bluegrass and blues band hailing from Gunnedah, Sydney’s Yoskos in the Cosmos, a genre-blending pop punk and classic rock outﬁt, and Bathurst’s psychedelic rockers Liquid Culture.

Rounding out the bill are some talented local groups: Hope Held Hostage – a rapidly rising alt-grunge-rock act, Dubbo indie-rock-

ers Tomorrow Forever, and blues-infused musers Indistinct Chatter.

Festival Coordinator and Songwriters & Original Musicians Association of Dubbo (SOMAD) president, Fred Randell, said that this local celebration of the live music scene belies the grey clouds hanging over so many similar events around the country.

“There’s been a lot of talk about the future of music festivals; (but) smaller boutique experiences are pushing to the fore,” Mr Randell said.

“That’s always been our aim with Under Western Skies since we kicked it off in 2019 – a great outdoor music experience capped at around 1000 people – big enough to

matter, but comfortable to attend.”

As in previous years, the festival grounds will include kids’ craft activities, a sand pit, outdoor games, food vans and an array of craft beers at the bar, he revealed.

“Our motto is ‘you can’t stream it, download it, or save it for later, but you can be there’,” Mr Randell said.

“In these days of social media and countless entertainment options on our screens, there’s something refreshing about heading out with your crew to a leafy park with a big stage, huge live sound, and a vibrant crowd,” he concluded.

To purchase tickets and view the full line-up, go to www.uwsfest.com.

Club Dubbo proudly donates to Hear Our Heart Ear Bus

By LANA EATHER

Club Dubbo has generously funded a partnership between

The Hear Our Heart Ear Bus Project and Goodstart Dubbo Baird Drive Early Learning.

The ClubGrant donation will enable an ongoing partnership between the two services to ensure ear health education and targeted hearing testing within the Early Learning Centre.

Dubbo Photo News joined Tim Farrell (Club Dubbo CEO), Goodstart Dubbo Baird Drive Early Learning staff and the Hear Our Heart (HoH) Ear Bus team to celebrate the ﬁrst day of hearing testing.

The ear health testing for children younger than three, and play audiometry assessments for those aged over three years old, will occur four times a year.

Goodstart Dubbo Baird Drive Early Learning director Tara Asimus expressed her gratitude on behalf of the children and families from the centre.

“We are so thankful to have this opportunity to support our families and children with regular hearing testing. It is such an important service, and allows families to know if their child requires medical attention for ear health and hearing,” she said.

“This also facilitates a faster referral process to other support services if required.

“It is wonderful for Club Dubbo and Hear Our Heart to foster community connec-

tions and assist in providing vital specialist assessments.”

Hear Our Heart Ear Bus Project was launched in 2012 by the Dubbo and District Support Group for the

Deaf and Hearing Im- paired Inc (also known as Dubbo Deaf Club) to help improve ear health services for children in Dubbo and districts.

The service covers a large area across

the Dubbo region from Nyngan to Gulargambone to Yeoval, and everywhere in between.

Hear Our Heart is notfor-proﬁt and does not receive government funding.

Tim Farrell said, “This grant enables Club Dubbo to give back to the Dubbo community, and helps Hear Our Heart to carry out the essential day-to-day work on the ground.”

The dedicated Hear Our Heart Ear Bus nurse screener Dana also communicated the importance of early detection of hearing issues.

“Conductive hearing loss can affect communication development and social skills, especially at this young age. Early diagnosis of conductive loss is crucial.

“HoH and the many children beneﬁting from the HoH Ear Bus Project are truly blessed and beyond thankful to have such a wonderful and supportive community of people making it all possible!” she said.

Pictured celebrating the collaboration which will help the hearing health of local youngsters are Saki, Lyla, Tara, Michaela, Tim, Amy and Dana. PHOTO: DUBBO PHOTO NEWS

Stormy skies for Rex Airlines is not the end of regional routes: Mayor

By DAVID DIXON

FLYING the skies across western NSW

might not be quite as grey as they look at the moment, following revelations of major financial trouble at Australia’s largest regional carrier, Rex.

Rex and its holding and subsidiary companies were placed into voluntary administration last week, in a shock move for the seemingly-buoyant twodecade-old airline that has dozens of flights in and out of Dubbo each week.

With most country routes continuing for the embattled company at the moment, frequent flyer, Dubbo mayor Mathew Dickerson, said that things are not as bleak as they appear.

With nearly 200,000 passengers in total now passing through the Council-owned Dubbo Regional Airport on a yearly basis, Cr Dickerson said that locals won’t be left without an air service, even if Rex did stop flying here.

“They have been a wonderful servant for regional NSW for 22 years – they service areas that other airlines won’t,” Cr Dickerson said.

“They built a business model around a lower-cost profile and are able to fly to areas that have far lower passenger numbers… they service 13 locations in NSW, and I reckon they’re the only airline in five or six of those,” he added.

Rex Airlines’ 34-seat SAAB 340-B planes, although slower and far smaller, have been able to compete against world carrier monolith Qantas’ 72-seat Dash 8-400s, due to the SAAB’s flexibility and frequency.

“Having two airlines operate here helps keep prices competitive and adds capacity, simply by flying at different times of the day,” Cr Dickerson said.

“Rex offers five flights a day, including one in the morning at 6.30, throughout the day, and another at 7pm, so you can go to Sydney, do your business and return that evening.”

Cr Dickerson believes that Rex’s financial woes do not spell the end of competitive air travel in the regions.

“Dubbo Airport sees about 195,000 passenger trips every year, almost up to the 200,000 we had before COVID.

“So, if Rex ceased to operate, passengers still need to fly between Dubbo and Sydney,” Cr Dickerson said.

Dubbo Airport, he explained, oper-

ates at a slight profit, but Council needs outside funding from the Federal Government for any major upgrades to the facility.

“Every year we put a lot of money into it, with the aim that ratepayers don’t end up subsidising it.

“But (airports) are expensive, and we need large grants for things like new runways or other upgrades,” Cr Dickerson said.

He is positive that the carrier will eventually be able to trade its way out of its current rough flight path.

“Hopefully, they’ll come through the other side, because good transport options are vital to inland towns like Dubbo,” Cr Dickerson said.

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK

Aug 8: John Laws , radio personality, 89. Dustin Hoffman, US actor, 87. Philip Nitschke, controversial former physician, 77. Deborah Conway, singer, 65. The Edge, U2 guitarist, 63. Kate Langbroek , comedian, 59. Toby Allen, Human Nature singer, 51. Shane Lee, cricketer, 51. Roger Federer, Swiss tennis player, 43. Vanessa Amorosi, singer, 43. Willie Tonga , footy player, 41. Katie Leung , Cho Chang in the Harry Potter ﬁlms, 37. Beatrice, Princess of York, 36. Tyrone Peachey, Wellington-born footy player, 33. Aug 9: Rod Laver, tennis star, 86. Melanie Griffith, US actress, 67. Gillian Anderson, The X Files actress, 56. Eric Bana , actor, 56. Adelaide Kane, actress, 34. Aug 10: Ian Anderson, Scottish muso of Jethro Tull, 77. Rosanna Arquette, US actress, 65. Antonio Banderas, Spanish actor, 64. Jon Farriss, from INXS, 63. Cate Shortland, screenwriter, 56. Emily Symons, Home & Away actress, 55. Angie Harmon, Law & Order actress, 52.

Aug 11: Steve Wozniak , Apple II computer inventor, 74. Hulk Hogan, US actor-wrestler, 71. Charlie Sexton, US rock guitarist, 56. Chris Hemsworth, actor, 41. Luke Lewis, NRL player, 41. Joel Creasey, stand-up comedian, 34. Aug 12: George Hamilton, US actor, 85. Mark Knopﬂer, of Dire Straits, 75. Lee Freedman, horse trainer, 68. Campbell Newman, former Queensland Premier, 61. Pete Sampras, US tennis champion, 53. Karl Stefanovic , Today host, 50. Casey Affleck , US actor, 49. Dominique Swain, US actress, 44. Matt Gillett, NRL player, 36. Jesinta Franklin, model, 33. Aug 13: Danny Bonaduce Pyne, politician, 57. Michael Klim Aug 14: Laurie Oakes, f 81. Steve Martin, US actor-comedian, 79. Danielle Steel , US author, 77. Larson, The Far Side cartoonist, 73. Mombassa , musician, 73. former Treasurer, 67. Magic Johnson basketball player, 65. Sarah Brightman stage soprano, 64. Susan Olsen Cindy on TV’s The Brady

Funding money, as our local libraries are evolving and growing

TO borrow from Mark Twain, reports of the death of local libraries – due to the all-encompassing worldwide web – are greatly exaggerated, with a recent monetary boost showing how they are evolving and growing in the internet age.

This follows Macquarie Regional Library announcing $90,260 in new funding from the NSW Government Public Library Infrastructure Grant program to support upgrades at both the Dubbo and Wellington branches.

“Dubbo Regional Council welcomes the funding announcement for our local libraries which will see upgrades and refurbishment to

the Dubbo and Wellington Library branches,” Dubbo Mayor Councillor Mathew Dickerson said.

The funding will be used to create dedicated collaborative and individual spaces at Dubbo Library that provide study areas with access to power and USB charging ports.

Wellington Library will be refurbished to improve the utilisation of the space, accessibility for users and connectivity to power and USB ports.

Macquarie Regional Library offers a range of different services and events for people of all ages in the community as well as access to computers, free internet, and meeting

spaces.

“Our libraries are vibrant community gathering spaces with a range of high-quality physical and online collections, connectivity, and dedicated staff who assist the community with the variety of services available,” Cr Dickerson said.

Upgrades at the two facilities will be completed over the next 12 months and are designed to have only a minor impact on services at different intervals of the improvements.

“Public libraries, such as Macquarie Regional Library, are an important community service that provides free services and spaces for the pur-

Bunch, 63. Halle Berry, US actress, 58. Kieren Perkins, swimmer, 51.

Dubbo Mayor, Cr Mathew Dickerson and Macquarie Regional Library Acting Manager, Gabrielle Teale-McEvoy. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

FROM WILCANNIA TO COFFIN BAY

This Outback tour is for great causes

By DAVID DIXON

Bigger and better than ever, the 17th Destination Outback road trip this year will be saying goodbye to a very old friend.

Having been with the rally since it started more than three decades ago, this will be beloved character

Neal Maxwell’s ﬁnal jaunt with the Rotary Club of Dubbo South institution that has raised more than $3 million over the years for worthwhile charities like the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

With a record 62 cars this year –kicking off in Wilcannia, then on to Merna Mora, Buckleboo Station, Cofﬁn Bay, Clare (all in South Australia), Robinvale (Victoria) and ending in Lake Cargelligo – this is also the ﬁrst odyssey to go from the red dusty outback to the big blue ocean, according to event director Grant Spencer.

“The numbers have been crazy.

Normally we cut off attendance at 150, but we’re up to 164 and this will be our biggest one yet,” Grant said.

“Part of the reason for that is our auctioneer, Neal Maxwell, who has been with us since 1990 when, on our maiden Queensland voyage, he threw his swag in the back after hearing we needed an auctioneer,” he added.

Many veterans of previous pilgrimages, he revealed, are coming for “Gundy” Maxwell’s ﬁnal trek adventure with the tight-knit group.

He’s been with us from the start, and this will be his 17th trip over 34 years – and his last – and a lot of people who were on the early trips in the 1990s are coming along to farewell ‘Gundy’.

“He’s a real outback character, and he’s played such an important role in the event’s success,” Grant said.

The job of auctioneer, Grant explained, is a key part of the fund-raising juggernaut that the trek has become over the years, with dozens of items auctioned off each night for charity.

“He’s able to lift the mood, so that an item that was maybe going to get $1000, gets $2000 to $3000 instead.

“On one trip, he auctioned off a cap, and for that one cap we raised $2700 – for something we bought for maybe $20!

“Last year we raised $396,000.

“We raised an incredible $3 million overall since we started, and this year

$250,000,” Grant said.

The money, he explained, goes to some very good causes close to country people’s hearts.

“The major beneﬁciary over the years has been the Royal Flying Doctor Service, number one, because they have their big base in Dubbo and we know, living on the edge of the outback, how much primary

medical services they now provide for the bush, not just for emergencies.

“We also donate to Macquarie Homestay who provide accommodation for people coming to Dubbo for medical care for their families, they do great work!” he enthused.

The week-long event, he explained, is not your usual do-up-a-jalopy and cruise into bush towns for drinks, fun and laughter, but a more genuine

‘see the great outdoors’ journey of discovery.

“We’ve mixed it up a little bit this trip, for the ﬁrst time we’re going to the coast, to Cof ﬁn Bay, so that’s something different,” Grant said.

“This is real four-wheel-driving, and we often stay at campsites and in the bush, though we do visit towns along the way, and we always have a good time.”

RECREATION ROOMS from $16,990 based on 5 x 2.5 conditions apply,

from $13,500

on 80sqm, insulation extra,

The 17th Destination Outback road trip is saying goodbye to a very old friend, fund-raising auctioneer, Neil Maxwell.

There are hopes to raise another $250,000 for local charities this year. Pictured are scenes from previous treks. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

A wonderful wuthering winter at Old Dubbo Gaol

By KEN SMITH

“Out on the wily, windy moors, “We’d roll and fall in green...”

That’s how singer Kate Bush’s 1978 classic song “Wuthering Heights” begins, and in the years since, both she and her song have become legendary.

A few years ago, Kate fans around the world decided to celebrate the song and the songstress by dressing in red for a day each year – and Dubbo fans have been getting involved.

Dubbo’s second “Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever” was held at the front of Old Dubbo Gaol and as the lyric states, yes there was green and the weather was a touch “moorish”.

Fun was had and it was a great way to stay warm.

Well done to Cam and Shaz, the Pink Angels, the Old Dubbo Gaol, and those who danced so well that they attracted much interest from passersby.

The smile says it all Pink Angels Inc

Matilda, Matilda, Karen and Cydi

Shaz, David and Cam

Heathcliff, it’s me, I’m Cathy, I’ve come home, I’m so cold. Let me in your window.

Dubbo’s second Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever at Old Dubbo Gaol

The Dubbo Region is the best place to build your career

The science of treating both acute and chronic pain

By DAVID DIXON

“THERE’S always been a need for the vital work of the physiotherapist, with many more now seeking help from this health-allied field that developed in the 1970s”, Jen Edge of the Wellness Edge in Cobra Street explained.

The science of physio, however, is about far more than just treating aches, pains, sprains and other injuries, she adds. It includes healing the whole person, with patients coming to her practice through a range of avenues and for a range of problems.

“Some people come straight here, some via their GP, others are referred through other health services; some people come as soon as they feel discomfort, others wait for months to seek help,” she explained.

While physiotherapy addresses the health and wellbeing of our bone and muscle structures, physio also covers the complex interaction between the systems of the body as a way of getting us back doing what we love as quickly as possible.

With pain of some sort the key driver that motivates most patients to seek out a physio, there are, however, different types of pain and dysfunction that can afflict any of us in our lives.

“There’s ‘acute’, causing inflammation and

LOVE YOUR WORK

Annabel

What do your friends call you?

Everyone knows me AJ.

Where do you work? Lavish Café and Cuisine.

What’s your job? Everything to do with café work!

Why do you love your work? I love the customers. So many of our customers are regulars so we get to know everyone quite well. Did you grow up in Dubbo? Yes, born in Dubbo.

Prior to your current job, what did you do? I worked in junior administration when I left school.

If you could work anywhere, where would it be, and why?

I would love to work at a vets’. I love animals and think they are so sweet! I have three cats and two dogs at home.

What was your ﬁrst paying job?

My ﬁrst job was at the Amaroo as a dishwasher out the back.

Three words your friends would use to describe you?

Funny, kind and thoughtful. Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time? Maybe in aged care? I like to help people, and I think that would be a really fulﬁlling career.

When you were little, what did you think you wanted to be?

I wanted to be a vet, and a doctor or nurse. I’ve always wanted to help people or animals.

pain, that can restrict our movement and our ability to use that body part, which we treat by restoring full range of movement, strength and function.

“These are things like an ankle sprain, knee injury or shoulder sprain that you get on a sporting field or when exercising,” Jen revealed.

The second type of physical impairment she sees in her work is for more long-term, complex maladies, which are often a greater challenge.

“I see a lot of chronic pain with the most common being back and neck pain, knee, hip and shoulder pain. With chronic pain being more complex in nature, they are more difficult to treat,” Jen explained.

The good news is that the clinic has branched out to include treatment for pelvic floor weakness. They recently took charge of a new advanced rehabilitation device that treats bladder leakage and sexual dysfunction. With one in four people in Australia experiencing bladder or bowel problems, and 80 per cent of people with urinary incontinence being women… this is important work, she said.

Strong pelvic floor muscles are necessary for bladder and bowel control and good sexual function, and we can exercise their pelvic floor muscles with this chair in 28-min-

ute sessions.

“It’s a revolutionary, high-intensity-focused electro-magnetic technology called the ‘BTL Emsella’… “It also treats men who have been left with

erectile dysfunction and incontinence after prostate surgery, or even just age-related changes, menopausal-aged women, post-natal women and those with sexual dysfunction as well,” Jen said.

Sales Finance Administrator

Due to the growth of the business, Three Rivers Machinery is now seeking a full-time Sales Finance Administrator to join our team in the Dubbo branch. This role reports to the Sales Support Leader.

The primary purpose of the position is to provide sales and ﬁnancial administration support to the sales department and communicating back to the customer directly. This is a dynamic and fast paced role. About the Job

 Provide administration services to th e sales team.

 Provide sales and ﬁnance service to th e customer and become the interface

between the customer and the sales team.

 Complete all sales ﬁnance quotes an d applications for the customer.

 Complete all the sales and ﬁnance ad ministration paperwork to provide a seamless and hassle-free experience to the customer.

 Update and maintain customer details.

 Market Three Rivers products and afte r-service capabilities.

 Maintain weekly and monthly reportin g across the sales departments and maintain sales records.

Find out more at www.seek.com.au/ job/77803521t

JOIN THE MISSION

Molly’s 18th Birthday

By KEN SMITH

The sign said, “What the hell were you wearing at Molly’s 18th?”

The photos provide a few fun clues.

The answer was colourful, crazy, loud, fun and ‘what the’?

Molly Croft’s 18th birthday party at the Commercial Hotel was a celebration, thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended with many guests enthusiastically making the trip to Dubbo to be there.

Happy Birthday, Molly!

And thanks for inviting Dubbo Photo News along to help share the moment.

Mick and Natasha Small

Barb Wheeler and Molly Croft Steve, Gemma, Paul, Ailish and Sally

Sophie and AmyKerry, Trevor and Carol Dickerson

Kerry and Carol Dickerson Kerry and Jamie Mackay

Michelle and Lisa

Back, Stella, Polly, Nick and Kristy, front, Albie and Jack HubbardEmily Hangan, Jazmyn Haksteeg and Alicia FernandoAsher, Molly, Sue and Lauren, front, Stella

Wayne, Sue, Brandon, Lara, Maddi and Kate

Isabella, Pip and Louise

Anthony and Amy

WELLINGTON NEWS

Class of 1988 members among those enjoying time out

By COLIN ROUSE

FORMER school mates of Wellington High School’s Class of ‘88 were among the many people enjoying time out when Photo News did the rounds at the end of July.

Local lobbying leads to money for Teamsters Park upgrade

By DAVID DIXON

YEARS of lobbying by the local community has now been rewarded with a cool half-million in new money to upgrade a popular Wellington sporting facility.

Renewal of the tennis courts and playground facilities at Teamsters Park in Montefiores will become a reality, after Dubbo Regional Council was recently successful in obtaining a total of $521,059 from the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund (CRIF) for the work.

The grant will allow the current facilities to be replaced by a single tennis court with a multi-court surface, a new perimeter fence and sport-specific equipment, as well as the installation of a new playground.

The modern facilities will benefit the rapidly-growing community of Montefiores and Wellington, as well as support the nearby school, and is a testament to the tireless efforts of locals seeking the park’s regeneration, Dubbo Regional Council mayor Mathew Dickerson said.

“Members of the community have been lobbying Council and elected officials since 2019 calling for upgrades to the park and, while there wasn’t money in our budget, this grant gives us the opportunity to secure the funds needed to complete these projects,” Cr Dickerson said.

“This funding is (also) a credit to the hard work staff put in for the grant application,” he added.

The replacement of the court surface and the renewal of the playground is designed to make

the facilities appeal to a wider demographic and assist those with accessibility needs, Cr Dickerson explained.

“The addition of the multi-court surfaces will also expand the range of sports that can be played, attracting a broader range of community members to be able to use the facilities.

“The playground will include additional elements to support the use and enjoyment of the park which we anticipate will be used once again as a popular venue for community gatherings,” Cr Dickerson concluded.

The tennis courts, due to their degrading surface, were closed in 2020 with the condition of the courts and surrounding fencing declared dangerous for public use. Works are expected to be undertaken in the coming months and will be completed early in 2025.

The Montefiores money was part of more than $640,000 for local Crown Lands to maintain and upgrade community facilities across the district.

Other grants under the scheme included a total of $17,009 to help combat the spread of noxious weeds such as Green Cestrum, St John’s Wort and Blue Heliotrope within the Mount Arthur Reserve near Wellington.

Crown Reserves is land owned by the State Government (“the Crown”) and dedicated for particular uses such as parks, nature reserves and camping areas, with $14.578 million announced statewide to support 144 projects during this current CRIF round.

Wellington High's Class of '88 out celebrating: Stew Irwin, Rick Irwin, Brett Lay, Seaun Stanley, Neil Baker, Marie Cornish, Teena Hill, Paul Kneeshaw, Jason McBeth, Mick Cullen, Leanne Hinton, Simone Keirle and Mick Keirle

Jessica and Rachael

Peter and Breeanna Galvin

Mackenzie and Levi Frappell Patrick, Annaliese and Freddie VeechSkye-Rhiannon Veech and Ash Toynton

Grace and Matt

Alison and Billy, Tenea and Clancy, Emma and Mia Anderson

Wellington local Adam Ryan, and regionally-based MLC, Stephen Lawrence, with youngsters at the funding announcement for half-a-million in upgrades for Teamsters Park at Monteﬁores, Wellington. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

IN FOCUS

THUMBS UP!

Thumbs up to the person who returned my lost purse to my house after I had lost it in Macquarie Street. I am ever so grateful for your care and honesty. Thank you so much.

Thumbs up to Jason and Cherie from Everingham Electrical Dubbo for the friendly service I received last week when I had an electrical fault at home. They went above and beyond to solve the problem and had the repairs ﬁnished within the hour – a big thank you.

Thumbs up and thank you to the young man near the skate park who, when he saw us looking for something, asked if it was car keys and told us a man had taken them to the police station. Thank you also to the man who handed them in.

Thumbs up to the caretakers of the New Dubbo Cemetery on Dunedoo Road. It’s always immaculate, showing great respect for our departed friends and families. Thank you.

Thumbs up to Kel at the Salvation Army in Gipps Street, for helping my daughter out of a difficult ﬁnancial situation. Your help is much appreciated.

Thumbs up to Frogpond Swim School for the eff ort they went to in creating a fantastic Olympicthemed week. We love Frogpond!

Thumbs up to Dubbo Photo News from Western Plains Trefoil Guild. We would like to thank you for putting our photo in the paper last week and for the write up. It was great!

Thumbs up to Amiee from Royal Bubs and Tots for always being super helpful and friendly. 10 out of 10 service!

 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.

COFFEES FOR GAZA EVENT AT DUBBO MOSQUE

The ongoing devastating impact on the civilian population of the Gaza Strip has been felt by many Australians.

Helping raise awareness and assist with humanitarian relief efforts in the territory, a local group recently gathered at Dubbo Mosque for a “Coffee for Gaza” event.

The morning tea was part of a worldwide fundraising initiative over the conﬂict.

THE Rotary Club of Dubbo Macquarie has bestowed Rotary’s highest honour on two stalwarts of the community whose remarkable dedication and selfless contribution has helped make our city and our region a better place.

At the club’s annual changeover, continuing president Lorraine Holland presented two very surprised but deeply worthy recipients with the prestigious Paul Harris Fellowship – Marty Morris and Brian Schloeffel.

Marty’s award was bestowed in honour not only of his unofficial service to the club for more than three decades as the partner of charter member Lorna Breeze, but

in particular for his extraordinary contribution to the Dubbo Show Society.

The Morris family’s involvement with the show is legendary, and none more so than with Marty’s decades-long dedication to the organisation, both as president for five years and as an active and integral committee member for more than 30 years.

It is widely recognised that his service to the show is invaluable in the real sense of the word, with Marty dedicating months and

months of his own time and money to ensure the smooth running of the show each year.

Brian Schloeffel’s contribution to the region of Dubbo is equally legendary, having dedicated more than half a century of his time voluntarily to help keep his community safe through his efforts with the Rural Fire Service (RFS).

He started with the RFS at Bunglegumbie in 1970 and has been there – boots and all – ever since; through some of our region’s most challenging times of fire and flood,

and as part of the RFS’s efforts to

After leading his crew as captain for 25 years straight, Brian still wears the distinctive and instantly recognisable yellow RFS garb with pride after 55 years and is currently deputy captain of the Burrabadine RFS.

On behalf of a grateful community, the Rotary Club of Dubbo Macquarie offers its deepest thanks and hearty congratulations to both Marty Morris and Brian Schloeffel.

Contributed by ROTARY CLUB OF DUBBO MACQUARIE.

charter member Lorna Breeze.

PHOTO: KEN SMITH, DUBBO PHOTO NEWS

Newly awarded Paul Harris Fellows, Marty Morris and Brian Schloeffel. PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED

Carpet Court Dubbo

Starting a project around the home?

The ﬁrst step with any successful project is to speak with the experts at Carpet Court. There you will meet an experienced sales team with comprehensive knowledge and ideas to suit your project.

Carpet Court Dubbo is a family owned and operated business, working with only the best local installers. Dubbo Carpet Court showroom boasts a fabulous selection of exquisitely engineered timber ﬂooring, vinyl plank ﬂooring, plantation shutters and win-

dow coverings.

It’s no secret that Carpet Court Dubbo has the perfect solution for every type of residential or commercial project. With their expert knowledge and skillset, the team at Carpet Court Dubbo can assist you at every stage of your ﬂoor covering project, including a free measure and quote home service to ensure that there are no unwanted ﬁnancial surprises.

Check out their showroom at 5 Hawthorn Street Dubbo Trading Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Sat 9am-12pm

Macquarie Valley Blinds & Awnings

MOn Site Clearing Sale - Sat 17th Aug 10am Start

19R Lonsdale Rd, Dubbo

A/C Sandra & the Late Bob Knight (Property sold) Golf buggy, caravan, generator, wood working machines, full workshop of tools & electrical, horse wear, stock wear, ride on mower, garden tools & accessories, pot plants galore, antiques & collectable tools, bottles, enamels, ladders, boilers, camp ovens, furniture indoor & outdoor. In Excess of 300 lots of collectables & functional tools & toys. Don’t Miss It!

Directions: from Dubbo take Peak Hill Rd 6km turn right Sappa Bulga Rd 6km turn left Lonsdale Rd 1km. Property on right Catering: Catering Dubbo cycle club.

Term & conditions: Number system, ID required, Cash or approved cheque sale day. EFTPOS available!

Narromine Jason Hartin 0429 894 334 www.schutebell.com.au/Lonsdale

Proudly sponsored by

Warren Central School - Music

Once every so often, the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney allows members of public organisations to express their interest in getting some free equipment that the museum no longer needs.

Miss Blewer submitted a request on behalf of Warren Central School and was given a selection of items that our students can all now use for free.

The items included a guitar, a keyboard, a set of musical bells, some technology items, and some stage equipment that can be used for school performances. We look forward to using these items and having some fun with them.

Miss Blewer, Koda Mackay, Roger Denston, Mason Hall, Raya Brandeburg and Harper Leach. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

KiDZ ONLY!

Cooper

How old are you? Five

What are you good at? Building Blocks

What type of food do you love the most? Sausages

Do you have a favourite saying? Bula (Fijian for 'hello')

What makes you laugh?

When you make a big tower

Who is your favourite character from a book? Bluey

Who’s the boss in your family? Mum & Dad

Which zoo animal would you like to have as a pet? Lion

What would you like to be when you grow up? Plumber

FUN X 4

NIMRAT SAHOTA

Happy 5th Birthday for 12th August!

MAYA

ADRIELLE SANU

Happy 5th Birthday on the 12th August

With lots of love, Adrian and Gabrielle

KNOW A BIRTHDAY CHILD THIS MONTH?

Send in a photo, details and a short birthday wish. myentry@dubbophotonews.com.au

Happy 3rd birthday Maya! Lots of love Nanny & Poppy xxx 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

ACROSS

1 Peppy (4)

3 Thin spaghetti (10)

10 Firm in purpose (7)

11 Sellers (7)

12 Very small amount (8)

eebreak

WORDFIT

3 LETTERS

23 Mark left by walking (8)

26 US writer (1817–62), Henry David – (7)

27 Emit (7)

28 Restriction (10)

29 Burden (4) DOWN

1 Male deer (4)

2 Believable (9)

4 Substantial (9)

5 Film (5)

6 Frankness (7)

7 Dissolute (5)

8 There and then (9)

9 Absurd (4)

14 Predictive (9)

16 Particle accelerator (9)

17 Total (9)

19 Esteem (7)

22 Faint (5)

23 Wildlife (5)

24 Flank (4) 25 Tidy (4)

13 Greek letter (5)

14 Beaten track (4)

15 Jarring (10)

18 Event (10) 20 Hideous (4) 21 Those entertaining (5)

L G I EX P N Using

or plural words ending in “s”.

16 words: Good

words: Very good

words: Excellent Today’s Aim: deign, ding, dingo, doing, doling, dong, doping, eloign, eloping, EXPLODING, geld, gelid, gild, glen, glide, gold, golden, gone, legion, lingo, lodge, loge, long, longed, loping, ogle, ogled, pigeon, ping, pinged, podge, poling

4 LETTERS

5 LETTERS

SWEET THEFT TIGER TILDE TOTES TRITE TULIP WAIVE

6 LETTERS CASTER ENTERS REWARD STRINE

Insert each number from

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

7 LETTERS ERASERS HOSTILE INSANER ROUTINE SARDINE TRIBUTE

8 LETTERS ALARMING DEFIANCE DESERTED SHAFTING

1. Where was Queen Noor of Jordan born?

2. Who directed the 1994 ﬁlm Muriel’s Wedding?

3. Kendo is a Japanese style of: a) fencing, b) boxing or c) dance?

4. By what name is the animal family Vombatidae better known?

5. What did ancient Greeks and Romans carry in an amphora?

6. The main ingredients of which US dish are lima beans and corn?

7. In which 2013 ﬁlm does Mark Ruffalo (pictured) play FBI agent Dylan Rhodes?

8. How many teams play at the Hopman Cup tennis tournament?

9. Completed in 1872, which two Australian cities did the Overland Telegraph Line join?

10. Name the Australian electronic music duo who released the 2008 debut album Walking on a Dream

TIP OF THE WEEK

If you pull all the way into your garage, tack some carpet scraps to the wall that you pull in toward. It will protect the wall’s paint, and it will protect your car’s bumper if you accidentally rub the wall.” – contributed by U.F.

ARIES: If a relaxing holiday hasn’t been in the cards s o far this year, you’ll consider going on a refreshing getaway to recharge your batteries. This will be extremely rejuvenating.

YOUR STARS

TAURUS: You’ll feel the need to please e veryone. However, you’ll realise that this is impossible. Follow your heart and trust your intuition. An extra dose of self-confidence would be beneficial.

GEMINI: After a long holiday, returning t o work may leave you feeling exhausted. Your partner and loved ones will require more attention. However, you must take time to rest to

get through the week.

CANCER: You’ll be rewarded with success. This w ill clarify an unclear story. You’ll receive heartfelt appreciation that will reinforce your position of importance.

LEO: You’ll devote time to your family and enjoy the p eace and quiet of your own home. Your relationship with your partner will be a priority. You’ll demonstrate your creativity, even in simple activities such as cooking a meal.

VIRGO: You could be in the mood to buy a new car. You’ll spend a lot of time negotiating and listening to endless speeches and presentations. At work, you

could discover that you have hidden sales talents.

LIBRA: You’ll have a strong urge to spoil yourself, get a ne w wardrobe or change your hairstyle. You must be social and hang out with your friends. At work, overtime will be on the agenda.

SCORPIO: You don’t always listen to advice from o thers, especially if it’s long-winded. Trust your instincts. They’ll guide you in the right direction if you take the time to listen carefully. You’ll have a guardian angel watching over you.

SAGITTARIUS: You may need to step back before a cr itical turning point in your life. You must think carefully about your passions and how to manage stress.

find

your

AQUARIUS: You’ll go to great lengths to impress s trangers and family members. Your children will be a source of great pride. You’ll seize opportunities of abundance that come your way.

PISCES: At work, a training course will bring about opp ortunities for advancement, bringing you closer to a career in line with your values. You’ll redefine your ambitions with a newfound conviction.

CAPRICORN: Your active social life could lead to o verspending. Even though you’re generally thrifty, you could

it challenging to manage your budget and pay off

debts.

The luckiest signs this week: Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces and

WUMO by Wulff & Morgenthaler

INSANITY STREAK

by Tony Lopes

OUT ON A LIMB

by Gary Kopervas

THE SPATS

by Jeff Pickering

by JoAnn Derson

eebreak b k re e a ee break

THE TOONS’ VIEWS

Joanne Austen Brown

Postcard 21

Jelly Fish, Singapore Aquarium.

Animals of many kinds can be attractive when visiting certain places around the world The S E A Aquarium in Singapore is one of those places They provide us with aglimpse of the many sea creatures that live in the seas and oceans around the world

Herejellyﬁsh can be observed up close and personal Look at the delicate structure of the jelly-like bodies!How light can penetrate the skin and show us their internal features Even the delicate spots that show on their skin. The different colours of the tendrils descending out of their bodies

This aquarium opened in 2012 after the closure of theprevious aquarium, which had dated and needed to be rebuilt Deﬁnitely worth a visit

Sing Out Choir celebrates 2nd birthday

By LANA EATHER

With a tremendous turnout of over 160 attendees the all-inclusive Dementia Sing Out Choir celebrated their second birthday recently. The heartfelt program was the dream of Anne Gemmell, and began two years ago with a choir session of 25 people after Anne successfully gained three government grants.

Camila Ward, conductor, and Sharon Simons, accompanist, joined Anne, and the Sing Out Choir was formed.

The program has continued to expand from its small beginnings and has become a popular outing with singing, solos and dance segments, followed by refreshments for those living with dementia, their carers, friends, families and volunteer singers.

The Sing Out Choir gathers weekly each Tues-

day from 11am-12.30pm.

The choir recently moved to a new larger venue at the Generocity Church on Sheraton Road, Dubbo. To add to the excitement of the birthday celebrations a new upright piano was unveiled, and was kindly donated by Peter and Joan Anderson. One of the many other beneﬁts of the Sing Out Choir is the sense of community and belonging it has developed and fostered.

Anne Gemmell also paid special gratitude to the many volunteers that assist, and their commitment to the program.

“Sing Out could not run without your generous and wonderful support, week in week out.”

The Dementia Sing Out Choir continues to encourage dementia advocacy, awareness and support in our region.

In loving memory of

Jill Marie Burns

July 12, 1936 to August 12, 2017

No-one heard the footsteps Of angels drawing near, Who took from earth to heaven The one we loved so dear. She has not really left us, Nor has she travelled far, Just entered God’s beautiful garden, And left the door ajar.

Loved and remembered always Leighton, Elizabeth and Megan Together again with Mervyn

Mick Kramer

Family & friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service to commemorate the life of Mick Kramer of Dubbo (formerly of Trundle & Tullamore ), loved husband of Melva (dec) and father of Ken, Lynne Jackson & Judi Forrester, adored Poppy Mick to their

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

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.

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: 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, Dvds and now board games with the money raised going to Charities that Club members choose.

FRIDAY

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

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

Communion Service (Dubbo Anglican Church): 10am, Brotherhood House chapel, 158 Brisbane St. Community Kitchen: FIRST Friday of the month, 6.30pm, Holy Trinity Hall, Brisbane St, free meal.

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

Dubbo Nepalese Christian Fellowship: 6.30-8pm. Cyrel on 0416 826 701 or Kabita 0452 406 234. Dubbo Parkinson’s Support Group: FIRST Friday of each month, 10.30am, Horizons village, Minore Road, Dubbo. Jim Jupp, 0438414888.

Lunchtime Prayer Group - Dubbo Anglican Church: 1-2pm in Brotherhood House, 158 Brisbane Street. Bring your lunch

Narromine Food Barn: 9am-11am, Lowcost groceries and FREE fruit, vegetables and bread with any purchase to people in need.

Ken Rumble on 0414 477 365

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

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

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

Western Plains Trefoil Guild: SECOND Friday of each month, 10.30am, Dubbo West Guide Hall. Please conﬁrm the meeting will be on. Dorothy 6884 6646

SATURDAY

Beekeepers Inc - Orana: SECOND Saturday of the month, 9.15am, Narromine Tennis Club rooms, unless other arrangements are made. orana.secretary@beekeepers.asn.au Bridge Club - Dubbo: 1pm until approximately 4.30pm, Bultje Street. $7 members, $9 non-members. Libby 0428 254 324. Croquet: 8.15am, Muller Park Tennis and Croquet courts, Brisbane St, North Dubbo. New players of all ages are welcome. Tricia 0428 876 204 or Margaret 0427 018 946.

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

Dubbo Anglican Church Vigil Communion Service: 6pm, 158 Brisbane Street.

Contact 6884 4990

Dubbo Bridge Club: 1pm, Bultje Street (Tennis Courts), Dubbo. $7 members, $9 non-members. Libby 0428 254 324

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

Dubbo Slot Car Racing Club: FIRST and THIRD Saturday of the month, 4pm, Seniors (15+), old Scouts Building, 189-191 Talbragar Street, across from Aldi. Terry 0408 260 965. Embroiderers - Dubbo: 10:00am- 3:00 pm (also see Tuesday listing) All are welcome Macquarie Regional Library

Contact Patricia 0439846400

Family History Society (Dubbo & District): 10am to 1pm, volunteers on site during these hours, Western Plains Cultural Centre Community Arts Centre, Cnr Wingewarra and Gipps St. Orana Writers’ Hub: 1st Saturday of the month 10-1. Music Room WPCC

Outback Writers Centre Hub Meeting: FIRST Saturday of the month, (Feb-Dec), 10am-1pm, Western Plains Cultural Centre, Community Arts Centre, Music Room, 76 Wingewarra Street, Dubbo Patchwork and Quilters Group: 9am, SECOND and LAST Saturday of the month,

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.

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

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, 10.30am12pm, Venue changes each month. Louise or Emma 0412 706 785 Breast Cancer Support Group:

FOURTH Wednesday of every month, 10am, Baptist Church, Palmer Street, Community Health 5853 2545

Bric-a-brac sale, weekly - South Dubbo Veterans and Community Men’s Shed: 10am-12pm, Corner of Palmer and High Streets. Contact Barry on 0439 344 349 Coffee, Craft & Chat: FORTNIGHTLY, 10am-12pm, Gospel Chapel on Boundary Road. Anne 0428 425 958

CWA Dubbo Evening branch: FIRST Wednesday of month, 7pm, 3 Frith Street. Barb 0409 159 556

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

CWA Terramungamine: SECOND

Wednesday of the month, 10am, Dubbo RSL Club. Barb 0427 251 121

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

Dementia Friendship Group: SECOND Wednesday of month, 10:30am, Western Plains Cultural Centre, Creo Cafe, Wingewarra St. Anne Gemmell 0481396404. Dubbo Arts and Craft Cottage: 10am-4pm, 137 Cobra Street. A large range of handcrafted gifts made by members available. Contact 6881 6410 Dubbo and District Family

History Society event: Linda Barnes will show you how to begin discovering your family history. Four weeks, Wednesdays March 6, 13, 20 and 27. 10.30am to 12.30pm at Community Arts Centre $7.50 per session for DDFHS members, $15 for non-members. To reserve your place phone Linda on 68878284 or email martinandlinda@gmail.com

Dubbo Bobbin Lacemakers: THIRD

Wednesday of the month, 10am-3pm, Arts & Crafts Society Cottage and Craft Shop, 137 Cobra Street. Judy 6882 5776 Dubbo Bridge Club: 9.45am, for 10am-1pm, Bultje Street (Tennis Courts), Dubbo. $7 members, $9 non-members. Libby 0428 254 324 Dubbo Community Garden: 9am12pm, 4 Palmer Street. A time to garden with others, learn more skills and grow friendships. Contact Denise 0433 623 842 or Julie 0428 821 829

Dubbo Electric Vehicle Interest, Owners, Users & Supporters (DEVIOUS) group: FIRST Wednesday of each month, 12:30pm to 1:30pm, Western Plains Cultural Centre café. Chris 0409 321 470 Dubbo Garden Club: 10am, FIRST Wednesday of month, Garden gatherings with morning tea. Contact, President, Annette Storer, 0429 828 882

Dundullimal Dubbo Support Crew Inc: FOURTH Wednesday of month, 10am, Dundullimal Homestead. Support Homestead functions. 6884 9984, dundullimal@ nationaltrust.com.au

Gamblers Anonymous: 6pm, Baptist Church, Dubbo. Victor 0407 799 139

Geurie Craft Group: 9am-2pm, Geurie Bowling Club. Everyone is welcome. Contact Colene 0400422335 Line Dancing: 6.30pm to 9pm, David Palmer Centre, Cobbora Rd. Kathy 6888 5287 or Lynn 6888 5263. Lodge Allan Stuart 416: SECOND Wednesday of month, Geurie Masonic Centre. Please email secretary@lodgeallanstuart416.org.au

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

Narromine Community Women’s Shed: Mondays and Wednesdays, 10am -3pm, The Wesley Centre, 138 Dandaloo Street, Narromine. Leona 0487 200 987 Survivors Of Suicide 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 young bodies active, for kids aged 5 to 12. Gold coin donation per family.

Dust settles, Cobar and Gulgong to

Contributed by BRYSON LUFF

FULL-TIME for Round 14 of the 2024 Christie and Hood Castlereagh League, signals that the Finals series is now set to begin this coming weekend.

The semis start with the qualifying finals to be played on Saturday and the elimination finals on Sunday, for all four grades.

Tom Knight Oval at Cobar will host the first of the finals action with the Roosters up against the Narromine Jets in first grade with the winner to advance to the major semi against Coolah the following Saturday. The loser, however, will then face sudden-death against the winner of the Elimination Final that will be played between the Gulgong Bull Terriers and the Coonabarabran Unicorns at Gulgong’s Billy Dunn Oval on Sunday.

The Roosters finished their competition round matches with a strong 44-11 win at home against the Gilgandra Panthers last Saturday, whilst the Jets will also come into the game on the back of sturdy victory after they downed the Baradine Magpies 40-14 at Baradine.

In terms of wins this season against each other, it stands at one-all with the Roosters scoring a resounding 58-14 victory at Cobar in the opening round, whilst the Jets returned serve when they won 28-18 in their Round 10 game at Narromine.

Although it will not be the end of the road for the loser, it would be a lost chance to host the 2024 Grand Final, so a fiercely-fought contest is expected in front of what should be a good crowd.

Moving on to Sunday’s First Grade clash, the Terriers and the Unicorns have only met once so far this season, that being in Coonabarabran in Round Seven, with the match ending in a 32-all draw.

If that result is any indication, then the supporters of both sides can look forward to an intense battle, with the losing side bowing-out of the Premiership race while the winner will live-on to fight another day.

There will be some high-quality matchups in the other grades played at both venues as well, with the Ladies league Tag game at Cobar between the Coolah Flyers and the Dunedoo Swannettes, presenting itself as one not to miss.

The two teams played last Saturday with the Flyers coming away with a 32-14 win, although in terms of try scoring, it was only four-to-three in favour of the Flyers after what was described as a fast flowing game.

Christie and Hood Castlereagh League Round 14 scores

Youth League

 Gulgong 22 def Binnaway 16

Final Competition Ladder

 Cobar 28, Gulgong 22, Narromine 20, Binnaway 14

League Tag

 Cobar 20 def Gilgandra 10

 Narromine 28 def Baradine 10

 Binnaway 18 def Coonabarabran 4

 Coolah 32 def Dunedoo 14

 Gulgong 32 def Coonamble 14

Final Competition Ladder

 Narromine 42, Coolah 38, Dunedoo 36, Gulgong 34, Baradine 28, Coonamble 28, Cobar 24, Gilgandra 18, Binnaway 17, Coonabarabran 13.

Reserve Grade

 Gilgandra 24 def Cobar 16

 Baradine 60 def Narromine 0

 Gulgong 28 def Coonamble 16

Final Competition Ladder

 Binnaway 15, Gilgandra 12, Gulgong 12, Dunedoo 11, Baradine 11, Cobar 9, Narromine 4, Coonamble 4.

First Grade

 Cobar 44 def Gilgandra 11

 Narromine 40 def Baradine 14

 Coolah 60 def Coonabarabran 0

 Gulgong 34 def Coonamble 18

Final Competition Ladder

 Coolah 42, Cobar 36, Narromine 36, Gulgong 31, Coonabarabran 28, Gilgandra 24, Coonamble 22, Baradine 19.

This weekend’s Semi-Finals

 Saturday, August 10 – qualifying semi-ﬁnals at Cobar’s Tom Knight Oval with a 10.15am kickoff for the ﬁrst game (Reserve Grade, with other games to follow straight-on).

 Reserve Grade – Gilgandra versus Gulgong.

 Youth League – Narromine versus Binnaway (Elimination semi).

 League Tag – Coolah versus Dunedoo.

 First Grade – Cobar versus Narromine.

 Sunday, August 11 – elimination semi-ﬁnals at Gulgong’s Billy Dunn Oval with an 11.30am start.

 Reserve Grade – Dunedoo versus Baradine.

 League Tag – Gulgong versus Baradine.

 First Grade – Gulgong versus Coonabarabran.

Cobar player Gerald Mackay bursts through a tackle against Gilgandra last Saturday in the ﬁnal Round 14 of the 2024 Christie and Hood Castlereagh League. The qualifying semi-ﬁnals are at Cobar this Saturday. PHOTO: COBAR WEEKLY

Close results for last week’s social games

Contributed by BOWLS

THE results of last week’s Social Bowls included Tuesday Ladies Social Bowls having 22 Ladies playing on the synthetics with the winners: Di Cullen, Julie Brown and Laurace Lawson, who drew with Colleen Ryan, Margaret Livermore, and Judy Tighe.

A total of 16 ladies were involved in the Club Fours First Round with zero Resters and Lucky Draw winners Di Cullen and Margaret Livermore.

In the Wednesday Men’s Social on July 24, there were 32 bowlers 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 defeating Paul Goodstat and Doug Back and, in third place, Ron Anderson, Eric Satchell, and Alan Davies knocking-over Chris Strojny, Roger Sherwin, and Neil Hayburn

In fourth place, Frank Seibert, Steve Kelly, and Dannis Jasprizza beat Gavin Cullen, Col Teale, and Col Cottee. In fifth place, Leo Balstad, Ross Pharo, and Matt Quill beat Trevor Tink, John Cole, and Tod O’Dea while, in sixth place, Frank Armstrong, Bryan O’Sullivan, and Ian Hobson defeated Paddy O’Dea, Alan Stratford, and Mike Twohill, with the closest

game, fourth Place.

Resters were Rob Pfieffer while the Jackpot of $59 was not won. Sponsor of the Week was the Medley Refrigeration Air Conditioning Electrical – Dubbo.

In Thursday Winter Warmer Mixed Bowls, these games will recommence in the warmer months.

In mid-July, the Mid-West Region playoffs were held at Parkes Railway Bowling Club with Dubbo City Senior Ladies, Gaye Cottee, Colleen Ryan, Karen Greenhalgh, winning the Semi Final before being defeated in the Final by Lithgow Workies.

The Senior Men of Brian Coffey, Robbie Cook, Gumpy Collins, and Alex Rae were defeated in the Final by Or-

ange Country Club, while, in the President’s Reserve, the team of Greg Hough, Terry O’Brien, Ian Hobson, and Col Cottee were defeated by Majellan Bathurst.

In the Mid-West Region Pennants Round Three, Dubbo City Ladies Grade 1 defeated West Dubbo 6-1; Dubbo City Ladies Grade 4 were defeated by Condobolin 0-7.

In the Men’s Division 2-3, Dubbo City were defeated by West Dubbo (1) – by 9-1, while Dubbo City Division 4 defeated West Dubbo 9-1.

On the Noticeboard, the Men’s Club Fours Semi Final to be played Saturday, August 10, with Sponsor of the Week, Medley Refrigeration Air Conditioning Electrical – Dubbo.

FATHER’S DAY COMES EARLY FOR OUR FISHIES

By GEOFF MANN

LAST Sunday, I had the privilege of broadcasting a live-stream for NSWRL TV. It was the battle for the “Fathers’ Cup” played as an addendum to the Peter McDonald Premiership match between Dubbo CYMS and their Orange brothers at Apex Oval.

The Fathers’ Cup was an initiative between Tod O’Dea (Dubbo) and Mick Downey (Orange) who saw the synergy and introduced the trophy as a pre-season incentive. At the time, the local Fishies were in Group 11; Orange CYMS in Group 10.

The links between the two clubs were founded on the Catholic Young Mens Society Youth Groups (CYMS). Many sporting clubs revolved around church-based groups last century, with Anglicans and Methodists both fielding cricket teams in Dubbo and Bathurst St Pats and Lithgow Shamrocks extending their wings around the same time for the “RCs”.

Father Dennis “Danny” Whelan (Orange) and Father Bede Smith, were instrumental in the formation of the clubs, while a notable player for the Orange club was John Grannal from Canowindra, who later served alongside these two men as a priest in the Bathurst Diocese.

On Sunday, the two clubs met in a crucial Peter McDonald Cup matches in all four grades. The League Tag went to a strong Orange team 30-0; Under 18s was won by the Fishies 28-0, then the joint competition-leading Reserves entertained the crowd before Dubbo won 40-28.

The First Grade teams were therefore hell-bent on booking a heavenly ride into the top four of the Western Premiership and played with plenty of fire in the belly!

Premiership points were at a premium; with the Fathers’ Cup an added incentive for the famous clubs, and it was the green-and-whites of the local side who emerged victorious by 18-16 on the back of a typically-dogged defensive effort, punctuated by the brilliance of fullback Jeremy Thurston.

Some history.

In 1954 when Dubbo CYMS was still four years off playing in Group 11

and were running around in the Dubbo Rugby League local comp, Orange CYMS was a leading team in Group 10. In fact, in 1954 the Green and Yellow “Fishies” were awarded the Clayton Cup.

The “second” Dubbo team, now known as The Fishies, had to wait until 1969 to win their first Group 11 First Grade premiership and then, two years later, took all three grades on a famous grand final day to Parkes where they accumulated a rare triple-treat.

Dubbo CYMS won again in 1975 (against Macquarie) and 1986, when Steve Hall led them to a commanding 56-0 victory over Forbes. Then the drought began, and it wasn’t until 2001 in Forbes that the green-and-whites added another title.

Orange CYMS’ record was similar to Dubbo. After a triple-treat (1952, 1953, 1954) and a double in 1957–58, the Group 10 club waited another 18 years to return to the top in 1987. Former NRL player Scott Sullivan’s arrival in 2010, however saw the club play in eight successive grand finals, winning in 2010, 2011, 2013, 2015, and 2017.

The green-and-white Fishies return to premiership glory in 2001 has seen grand finals in all but two subsequent years, taking Group 11 premierships in 2002, 2003, 2004, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2014, 2015 and then in 2022, when they claimed the Peter McDonald Western competition.

Two proud clubs led by strong committees and coaches with outstanding credentials – Shaun Townsend, Dubbo (non-playing) and Jack Buchanan, Orange (captain-coach) – exhorted their teams to an engrossing encounter.

Both clubs have all teams in contention for finals and with former NRL premiership-winning half Dan Mortimer pulling the reins for Orange CYMS, there is hope that he can help coach Buchanan lead them deep into the finals.

It was a terrific day of inter-club rivalry where former players and work colleagues caught-up in the Bruce Neads Stand to reflect on past glories.

If you would like to watch the match, it is available on the NSWRL sitePeter McDonald premiership / Round 14 / Dubbo v Orange - 2024 Peter McDonald Premiership- NSWRL TV.

Top bowlers who pull together, the 2024 Division 4 Pennants Team. BELOW: The 2024 Ladies Division 3-4 side. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Demon’s senior Women, Tier One Men, and junior sides, all look to semi-finals

Contributed by DUBBO DEMONS AFL

DUBBO Demons are getting towards the pointy-end of 2024 as the Juniors only have one more game in their home-and-away season before the finals.

In good news for the local club, there will be a couple of junior teams competing in the final’s series.

For the seniors, the Women are also sitting atop the ladder with two games still to play. The Tier One Men are secure in third place as well, which should result in the Club hosting the Elimination Final in Dubbo on Saturday, August 24.

In last weekend’s round, two out of three wins for the day was the happy result of a sunny outing in Bathurst as all three senior Dubbo teams took on the Giants.

Interesting to note for the statisticians amongst us, that both the Reserves and the Women’s teams kicked exactly the same scores –9-11 65.

In the early game, the Tier Two boys came-out with all guns blazing in the Bathurst sunshine to lead at the end of the first-quarter. They continued to work hard, but found it more difficult marking into the sun in the second quarter, but still led at the halftime break before kicking-away in the second half to claim victory by 9-11-65 to 7-4-46. This was a great team-effort across the ground and an excellent start to the day for the Demons.

The Women’s side were also keen to make their mark early on the scoreboard against a strong Giants outfit and raced to a 19-point lead at the quarter-time break.

Knowing never to take the Giants lightly, the Demons girls kept their intensity up throughout the game and didn’t take their foot off the pedal, piling on the goals to come away with a win 9-11-65 to 3-5-23.

Thus was a great display of skills and effort with the defence holding strong against their opponents, the midfield providing run all game, and the forwards all looking dangerous in front of goal. What a fantastic effort from

hard against the onslaught, with Adrian Hickey stretching his long arms for spoils and intercept marks. Harley Bye showed his pace and provided run out of defence and the midfielders started to get some good link-up plays going.

Tempers were also running hot and a rev-up from coach Fairall at the final break, saw the boys come back out on the field giving it their all. The Giants were too polished on the day though and took the final win 19-12-126 to 10-11-71.

Next weekend will see the Tier Two Men and the Women travel to Cowra to take on the Blues while the Tier One Men will have a bye to rest-up and recover before the last minor round game at home against the Bushrangers.

Cowra are always a force to be reckoned with, so both teams will be looking to bring some good footy skills in the run home to finals.

Dubbo Junior AFL also hosted home games on Sunday kicking-off with the Under 12’s taking on the Bathurst Giants. It was a close game throughout, and Dubbe ended-up coming away with the win 9.8.62 to 8.9.57.

The Under 14’s had a bye this weekend, so the second game was the under 10’s involving Dubbo and Bathurst Bushrangers who thrilled the crowd and had a fun session in front of a good crowd.

The Youth Girls took on Bathurst Bushrangers and Abby Taylor celebrated her 50th junior game. It was a fun and competitive clash with many Dubbo players having a great game and kicking a few goals.

Ultimately, the Bushies played very well and came-away with the win on the day 6.8.44 to 14.8.92.

The Under 17’s also played a fast-paced game against the Bushies with the lead changing multiple times throughout the match.

Cam Healey also kicked his 100th Junior goal during the game, and the boys fought hard till the final siren, but it wasn’t quite enough as the Bushies came away with the win 5.3.33 to 11.14.80.

the forwards Abbee Milgate, Chynae Green, Mikaela Cullen, Molly Mayall, and Leonie Pascua to each score a goal. Five dangerous forward targets, are a match-up

conundrum for any opposition coach!

The Tier One Men’s game was always bound to be a fiercely-fought battle against the Giants

with second place on the ladder up for grabs. The Giants got away to a flying start piling on five majors in the first term.

The Demons defenders fought

The final home and away round of the junior fixture will be played next weekend with teams once again hosting at South Dubbo Oval.

LEFT: Dubbo Demons Under 17’s played a fast-paced game against the Bushies with the lead changing multiple times throughout the match, with Cam Healey kicking his 100th Junior goal. the weekend, with Abby Taylor celebrating her 50th junior game.

Young ladies on the ﬂy, Leonie, Em, with their best-on-ﬁeld vouchers, with Lynton from the Dubbo Demons. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Dubbo Turf Club is racing for Macquarie Homestay

By GEOFF MANN

DUBBO horse-racing fans and the western community are in for a treat over the next two months with this Sunday’s meeting raising awareness and funds for Macquarie Homestay.

This impressive accommodation facility, built on land donated by the Turf Club, is now erecting its second stage of development, providing a high-quality centre for those visiting Dubbo for treatment or to be near those undergoing medical procedures.

Leading metropolitan trainer, Bjorn Baker was at the Dubbo track last week as the new partnership was unveiled and to announce a new sponsorship for the Club’s huge meetings in coming months.

Dubbo Turf Club General Manager, Sam Fitzgerald and the Board were ecstatic to have the high-profile trainer at the launch the 2024 Dubbo City & Gilgandra Toyota Dubbo Gold Cup.

“Bjorn is a very good Ambassador and always sends horses for our big meetings,” Sam said.

“This year he was even more excited with the huge increase in prize money for our two major races,” he added.

“It has grown from $45,000 to 150,000 and, with that, it has seen stronger fields and broader engagement with the community,” he explained.

Corporate help has been part of that drive for success, he revealed.

“State of Play” for local sport

“Our partnership with Dubbo City and Gilgandra Toyota – which enters its eighth year – came at an important time for the

“Through their support, it has provided integrity and strong brand association, to improve the Dubbo Gold Cup event year to year,” Sam enthused.

Long-standing sponsors, XXXX Gold, will also be the naming rights sponsor for the Vincent Gordon Flying Handicap – the feature sprint race on Dubbo Gold Cup Day.

“XXXX Gold, or parent companies Lion and Tooheys, have been sponsors of our Club for almost 50 years,” Sam said.

“We are delighted to have them onboard to sponsor this important feature race.”

By GEOFF MANN

WITH all the focus on the Olympic Games in Paris and the upcoming Paralympics, you might be wondering what is the situation with our regional sporting competitions.

Local netball, hockey, junior and senior soccer, junior league and rugby, as well as basketball, continue through to the end-of-school term, but the major inter-district battles hold a lot of interest.

Rugby Union

The Club will offer $445,000 in prizemoney across the eight-race program, which also includes the Arrowfield Country Magic Plate ($50,000) and Dubbo City and Gilgandra Toyota Super Maiden ($50,000).

The first Gold Cup was in 1973, so this year marks a very special anniversary.

“The Dubbo Gold Cup is an event which has grown significantly over the last decade,” Sam believes.

Bjorn will be aiming to follow-up his win in last year’s Gold Cup with “Iknowastar” who led all the way to take the $100,000 Cup in record-time. With an increase in the winner’s purse to $150,000, as well as the Vince Gordon Flying Sprint also up from $50,000 to $75,000, the Baker stable will be aiming to make it back-to-back.

“We are thrilled to have Bjorn involved as our Ambassador this year:” Sam said

“He is one of the industry’s great characters and elite trainers and of course, is the reigning Gold Cup holder,” he concluded.

Another chilly start, as players contend with heavy, rain-soaked synthetic green

Contributed by ‘PISTOL PETE’

ANOTHER chilly start with light cloud cover made warm-ups necessary to cope with the heavy, rain-soaked synthetic greens at Dubbo North RSL Sports Club.

In an early game, Jill Hawkins, Ian Humphries, and Brian Jones began with a three and a double to led by six after another shot on the third end. Sue McCauley, Ruby Stockings, and Paul Goodstat then rolled-up a storm, adding a couple of doubles and a quad to lead by a small margin at the break. Another two on the ninth, gave Team Jones hit the front temporarily, before Paul and his girls levelled up 10-all after 10. Paul’s teammates rallied again with a huge six and took

the game 20-13.

Sometimes things do not work out and, during a Sunday bowls morning it devours your senses, trying to bowl well, but the bowl just does not end up as wanted.

Unfortunately for Chris Castlehouse, Doug Aldis, and Bryan O’Sullivan, their first eight ends lived up to this scenario with the team taking just one end for two shots against Ros Joseph, Ray Strawhan, and Greg Brown who punched in six. In the second block, Bryan’s mob added six, but Brownie’s team scored a couple of triples, a four and a double to polish-off a 20-8 win and first for the morning.

Mary Perry, Chris Strojny, and Graham Ross embarked on a multiples exchange with Ron

McCauley, Shirley Marchant, and Matt Quill. The first group “teedoff” with a five; the latter with a quad on the next. After eight ends, it was 11-9 to Graham and his team. A triple on nine gave Ron, Shirley, and Matt a brief glimpse of the lead, but it was soon taken-away from them by Mary, Chris, and Graham with a big second half in which they racked up another 11 shots for a 22-15 win.

In a lop-sided game, John Zeb, Frank Armstrong, and Al Andrisk’s scorecard read one-end won, one-shot scored! At the same time, Daphne Dunbar, Allan Stratford, and Gordon Scott, had six singles built around a five on the third and led by 10. Al and his team fought back but,

at the end, Gordon’s team had posted a 15-10 victory.

In yet another game where one side dominated the scoring of the first eight ends, Helene Emblen, John Cole, and Rob Pfeiffer mounted eight shots in each block of eight ends for a solid 16-7 win against Pate Serwin, Pete Bennison, and Phil Knight. Probably the game of the day, was between Di Hildebrandt, Steve Kelly, and Pete Ruzans versus Sue O’Dea, Roger Sherwin, and Pete Sinclair. The first eight ends were highlighted by Di’s four and Sue’s triple. Aware of “second-half syndrome”, both teams knuckled down to their best bowls resulting in a nip-andtuck road home that saw Pete R’s team win by two shots – 14-12.

Dubbo Rhinos will fly the flag for the city along with Narromine, Mudgee, and Parkes as the Finals begin this Saturday. Dubbo Kangaroos competition-leading women’s team are under pressure to retain their premiership along with Colts, while Thirds and Seconds are also in the hunt. The Roos Firsts’ season will end on Saturday. Central West AFL Dubbo Women lead the competition and are defending premiers. The two men’s teams will aslo figure in the endof-season playoffs.

Rugby League

Peter McDonald Cup – Mudgee will finish Minor Premiers, Dubbo Fishies probably second, but they are locked in a battle with Parkes. Macquarie firsts are not likely to figure in the finals, although their League Tag team has had a remarkable season and could well feature on Grand Final day as they look to go one better than last year.

Castlereagh League

The finals series starts this weekend with Coolah aiming to complete their return season with a win, but they are facing strong opposition from Cobar, Narromine, and reigning-premiers, Gulgong.

Narromine Jets are the team to beat in League Tag with Coolah and Dunedoo probably their strongest opposition. Western Premier League Football All three Dubbo teams lost on a triple-header afternoon/evening at Apex on Saturday. The Bulls are hoping to complete their 20th season with a strong run in the finals, while both Spurs and Macquarie United, are only remote chances of sneaking into the semis.

INDIGENOUS & SPONSORS ROUND

SUNDAY 11TH AUGUST APEX OVAL,

Super Tag kicks off at 10am, followed by League Tag, U18s, Reserve Grade and First Grade

Ducks host Austinmer Otters in social swim

By GEOFF MANN

ONE of Dubbo Ducks’ oldest inter-club rivalries in the pool is against the Austinmer (south coast) Otters. Sunday witnessed another round of keen competition in the pool and a wonderful couple of days of social interaction.

To start the festivities, some of the Otters and their hosts were feeling a little dusty for the pool frolics after a memorable catchup on Saturday. Indeed, long-time Duck, Ronny Everett turned-up in his dressing gown for the swim. Must have been watching the Paris Games where the world’s best enter the deck in their national robes!

Ron was jokingly referred to as “Hugh Hefner” and everyone was referencing his slightly wobbly “rum” legs!

In competition, the historical Beach-to-Bush race saw pairs –one Otter and a Duck – diving-in together. The Otters, however, felt at a definite disadvantage in the RSL indoor pool.

“We can’t swim in this heated water, we’re used to the ocean rockpool, where we test ourselves in winter!” they complained.

In final results, Neil Harris combined with Pete Burgis from Austinmer to claim the Beach-to-Bush trophy.

In a turnaround for the Dubbo side, however, the locals converted home-pond advantage into a win in the 10-Person freestyle relay to keep the trophy in the Golden West for another 12 months.

The post-swim function was reminiscent of the Dolphins after-party in Paris – minus one very publicly recognised “extra”!



Clockwise from above:

 Salt-water Otters in Stillwater heaven!

 Janine Gardiner and Pete Hargreaves

 Ducks Tim Grey, Dave Sparkes and Gary Sienkiewicz bookended by friendly Otters!

A smiling Otter with the “Big on St yle” trophy!

 Ronny “I’ve got my PJs in my bag”

PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

By KEN SMITH

MEAT RAFFLES

crazy

socks

hair for the recent Crazy Hair and Sock Day hosted by Dubbo Netball Association alongside their regular Saturday competition at Nita McGrath Netball Courts.