CN010824_Digital_Edition

142ND YEAR OF PUBLICA TION

Council reps to restand

CANOWINDRA based Cabonne councillors Kathryn O'Ryan, Andrew Pull and Jenny Weaver have all confirmed they will re-stand in September's NSW Local Government elections

Reflecting on her first term in council, Cr O'Ryan noted the unique challenges and impacts of COVID-19, which extended the previous council's term, leading to many projects started by her predecessors being completed during her time on council.

She emphasised the significant impact of major flooding events on her term, which altered available funding and necessitated a focus on flood recovery

"[The floods] really changed everything and changed the funding that became available."

Cr O'Ryan expressed her commitment to seeing these recovery projects through to completion in the next term, highlighting her en-

joyment of working with the community.

"Flood recovery will still be some fairly major projects that will have commenced under my term and will be finished in the next term of council, and I would like to be there for that."

"I would like to see it completed and I would like to see those jobs through."

Cr Pull has also announced his intention to restand.

"It's been a short term with some current projects to still reach completion," Cr Pull said.

"I'd like to see them out."

Cr Pull emphasised the importance of continuity in council efforts

"A new term enables the new councillors to set plans for the next four years, that's exciting," he said.

Reflecting on his current term, Councillor Pull highlighted key achievements, particularly in flood recovery

planning and the efforts of council staff

He also noted significant progress in major infrastructure projects, including the Nyrang Bridge, Canowindra and Manildra changerooms, and the Molong CBD revitalisation.

With over 20 years service, Cr Jenny Weaver has a long-standing commitment to the local council, having served three terms: from 1995 to 2008, 2017 to 2021, and currently serving her third term

"The most rewarding outcome of being a councillor is seeing the council area advance and develop as projects come to fruition, and discussions advance to follow up on future projects," Cr Weaver said.

"It is simply the satisfaction of working with the community to develop and achieve what the community would like to see evolve and grow in their area," she said.

Canowindra councillors Kathryn O'Ryan, Andrew Pull, and Jenny Weaver have all indicated they will restand at the Local Government elections.

Whats on in Cowra and Canowindra

LITTLE FISHES AT THE MUSEUM

AUGUST 2

Each month, the little fishes' study a new topic. This month's theme is "Chemical Reactions" Also includes free entry to the Museum

COWRA REMEMBERS

A 1940'S RETROSPECTIVE DANCE

AUGUST 3

Club Cowra invites you to take yourself back to the 1940s. You can win prizes for the best dressed period costume, and you can enjoy the Big Band tunes.

SWAP MEETCANOWINDRA

AUGUST 4

Canowindra Pony Club will be hosting their annual Swap Meet at the Canowindra Showground Gates will open from 5:30am6am for swappers and at 6:30am for the public with an entry fee of $5

WINE SHOW PRESENTATION DINNER

AUGUST 10

The Cowra Wine Show Presentation Dinner will take place at the Cowra Showground Pailion

GOOLOOGONG RECREATION PARK

MARKETS

AUGUST 11

Pack up the car and go for a leisurely country drive to Gooloogong Recreation Park Markets on Sunday from 9am to 1pm.

KOORA POSSUMS PLAYTIME

AUGUST 12

Everyone is welcome to participate from 9.30am to 11am in a range of sensory, physical, and craft activities, fostering social interaction and learning opportunities for children

DRAG BINGO NIGHT

AUGUST 17

Drag Bingo Night, Cowra Bowling Club hosted by the one & only Betty Confetti!

Court application refused

THE Local Court has rejected an application to have a Cowra man discharged from charges relating to a fatal accident between his vehicle and a mini bus in December last year

Counsel for Scott Death made the application when he appeared in the Cowra Local Court on Wednesday, July 24.

Th

e application came after counsel for the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) made an application for the case to be adjourned.

The DPP wanted more time to study the evidence provided to it by police

Wednesday, July 24 was the second occasion the prosecution had asked for an adjournment placing it outside the normal six months

given for it to provide the court with charge certification.

A charge certificate shows all the offences the prosecutor intends to proceed with if the case goes to trial.

Death has been charged with dangerous driving occasioning death - drive manner dangerous, cause bodily harm by misconduct - in charge of motor vehicle, negligent driving (occasioning death) and two counts of knowingly make false/misleading statement.

Counsel for the DPP, Ms Alaymar told the court further charges are now likely, including a charge of pervert the course of justice.

Ms Alaymar told the court the DPP had been served with more than 900 pages

of evidence, more than 700 pages of photos, four hours of police body worn video footage and several hours of CCTV footage

A patron of the Cowra Bowling Club, a 84-year-old man died in the accident between Death's vehicle and a mini bus on Fitzroy Street in

Cowra last December 16

The club's courtesy bus driver, a 61-year-old woman and four other passengers on the mini bus - two men aged 41 and 78 and two women, aged 55 and 60 - were injured with three taken to Cowra Hospital and a fourth airlifted to Orange Base Hospital

It is very much in the public interest to proceed

DPP Solicitor Ms Alaymar

for further treatment.

Death's counsel, Ms Cooper, opposed an adjournment and asked for her client to be discharged arguing "this is the second adjournment" claiming the proceedings were causing her client and his family anxiety.

"It is in the interests of justice," Ms Alaymar said of the DPP application for another adjournment.

"These are serious indictable offences that relate to the death of a person. It is very much in the public interest to proceed," she said.

Rejecting the application to discharge Death, magistrate Rana Daher adjourned the matters until September 4, 2024.

"There is no doubt the nature of these charges is serious. In the interests of justice it is appropriate for the matter to continue," Ms Daher said.

An application from Ms Cooper for costs relating to Wednesday's proceedings was held over until September 4.

Cowra's low level bridge crossing submerged again

COWRA'S low level bridge has re-opened after closing again in the past week

Water releases from Wyangala Dam submerged the bridge once again following welcome rain across the region.

Community group Lachlan Valley Water said more than 6,000 megalitres (6,000,000,000 litres) each day was travelling down the Bila Galari-Lachlan River, maintaining crucial capacity for flood mitigation further downstream

A flood warning was issued for the Booligal region, downstream of Cowra, due to the increased flow and wet weather conditions over the last week

Flood warnings were also

issued last week following the rain for the Belubula River at Canowindra.

The Bureau of Meterology forecast drier conditions for the Cowra region, promising an opportunity for paddocks and backyards to dry out

ahead of what is expected to be a dry August for the region with cooler conditions expected to continue

River levels are slowly rising along the Lachlan River at Booligal Weir, where minor flooding was likely.

Intertwined fills the Civic Centre

BY DANE MILLERD

LOCAL Cowra creative Lusi

Austin's POW themed play

"Intertwined" has been the talk of the town, performing to sold out audiences over the past week

The powerful and thought-provoking play serves as the anchor event for the official commemorations of the Cowra POW Breakout's 80th Anniversary this week

The Cowra community have turned out in droves for this captivating theatrical experience

Intertwined will provoke thought, inspire conversation, and commemorates a significant moment in history "Intertwined' is a labour of love that aims to bridge gaps, build connections, and encourage meaningful dialogue,"said Lusi last year

It traces the story of a young teen girl, an Australian soldier and an Aboriginal

Intertwined which has been showing to packed crowds for the past week Pic courtesy of

man who all find themselves with one thing in common: Cowra. Cowra is the place the teen girl is taken to on holiday with her father, partly to deal with the passing of her mother Cowra is where our Australian soldier served during WWII. He represents the many Australian soldiers

HAVE YOUR SAY Be apartofdeveloping theResilient Homes Program– CentralWest

TheNSW Reconstruction Authority isholding CommunityInformation Sessions forflood-affected locals to help shapethe ResilientHomes Program- CentralWest

TheProgram aims to reduce the impact of future floodsbycreating more resilienthousing in theregion. We’re keen to hear your feedback on theproposedapproachfor the Program, includingthe potential measures andparticipation requirements.You will be also able to view maps developedbyflood specialists, in consultation with councils,and understand how this hasinformed theProgram

CommunityInformation Sessions arebeing held in:

Eugowra on Tuesday6 August, Wednesday7 Augustand Thursday 8August2024

Molong on Tuesday6 August

Cudal on Wednesday7 August

Canowindra on Thursday 8August

To book asession timecall 1800 844085

Find outmoreat: nsw.gov.au/central-west-recovery

who came here during the days of the infamous Cowra POW Breakout and tells their stories While our Aboriginal man tells the stories of his elders who were alive at Cowra's Erambie Mission during the time of the Breakout

Through 12 scenes and 12 musical numbers, the actors and ensemble show

how lives overlap and how we ultimately have a shared humanity. Intertwined asks if the example given to us in the Japan-Australia relationship can inspire future generations, and if we can acknowledge past hurts to mob in order to help us move forward in a way that promotes peace as a nation united

Governor of NSW to visit Cowra

MARGARET Beazley, Governor of NSW and Mr Dennis Wilson will visit Bathurst, Blayney, Cowra, and Carcoar from Thursday, August 1, to Monday, August 5, 2024.

"Dennis and I are looking forward to traveling to Bathurst, Cowra, and surrounds for commemorations of the 80th Anniversary of the Cowra Breakout, and to meet the inspiring locals and community groups who contribute so vitally to this vibrant, historic, and beautiful part of the Central West," Governor Beazley said.

In Cowra, the Governor

and Mr Wilson will learn about rehabilitation programs at Weigelli Centre Aboriginal Corporation. They will also tour the Cowra Regional Art Gallery, watch demonstrations by Cowra Riding for the Disabled and the Cowra Pony Club riders, and hear from Cowra Council representatives about local programs and initiatives They will participate in various commemorations of the 80th Anniversary of the Cowra Breakout, including a 2am wreath-laying ceremony at the Cowra POW Campsite

Cowra Civic Centre

Governor of NSW, Margaret Beazley and Mr Dennis will visit Cowra this week

Cabonne Shire offers pet desexing vouchers

As part of 2024 Local Government Week, Cabonne Council is offering a limited number of vouchers to contribute to the cost of de-sexing your cat or dog.

The vouchers on offer are: $150 discount voucher towards female dog de-sexing, $100 discount voucher towards male dog de-sexing, $100 discount voucher towards female cat de-sexing, and $50 discount voucher towards male cat de-sexing.

These vouchers are limited to one per household and can be redeemed at: Orange Veterinary Hospital or Cowra Veterinary Centre.This initiative is exclusively for Cabonne residents.

To obtain a voucher, please contact Orange Council's Environmental Services Department at (02) 6392 3247 Alternately, Cowra residents can call Cowra Shire on 02 6340 2000 for more information

Full on Food Basket Extravaganza in Canowindra

Get ready for an action-packed Friday at Canowindra Food Basket.

1. Fill-a-Bag Friday, August 2, 9.30am - 12 noon Canowindra Connections Centre

For just $20 (large bag) or $10 (small bag), you can fill up a bag with grocery items of your choice! We supply the bagsyou pick the goodies. Please note, limits apply to some items

Join us for a sizzling good time! Lorelle from Uniting will be hosting a sausage sizzle, offering tasty snacks to everyone who stops by

It's going to be a morning full of fun, food, and community spirit. Swing by, do some shopping, grab a sausage, and have a chat with your neighbours and local leaders.

Rhonda

reopened yesterday after a massive clean up effort

Thieves target cafe in weekend crime spree

BY DANE MILLERD

THIEVES have targeted local business, Cafe Ruze, in a crime spree that saw other homes and businesses targeted over the weekend.

Rhonda Amos, who has owned Cafe Ruze since May 2023, was shocked on Monday morning when her daughter and cafe manager, Anita Barrett, arrived at work to find a window smashed and money taken.

"Anita called me and told me what happened on Monday morning," Rhonda said.

"I was in disbelief.

"We feel blessed no one was hurt and no other damage was done to us or other businesses in the arcade

"Sadly, drugs are making it worse in rural communities too and until we deal with that then this type of thing will continue unabated We are hopeful video footage will help us identify those responsible."

Daughter Anita agreed and said that it was symptomatic of what has been happening in small towns throughout regional Australia.

"It is the first time we have had a break-in and the first I know of in the cafe's 15 year history," she said.

"We were extremely lucky that's all that happened as this thing is becoming more common," Anita said.

Despite the damage, the cafe reopened on Tuesday for business. Police are continuing with their enquiries and ask anyone with information to contact Cowra Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

BRING YOUR FRIENDS & FAMILY AND ENJOY AN EXCITING ATTENDANCE FROM A CELEBRITY THERE WILL BE A WIDE RANGE OF THINGS TO DO FROM FACE PAINTING, A JUMPING CASTLE TO EVEN A FREE SAUSAGE SIZZLE!! EXCITING CASH GIVEAWAYS AND PROMOTIONS FROM MAJOR TYRE MANUFACTURERS.

BROADCASTED ON 101.9 FM! SEE YOU THERE!

Cafe Ruze owner

Amos with daughter Anita Barrett surveying the damage done to their window earlier this week The cafe

A tribute to the 1940s

CLUB Cowra will be holding a 1940's dance in conjunction with the Cowra Breakout 80th Anniversary activities.

Starting at 6pm on Saturday August 3 the dance will feature the Cowra and District Band performing the hits of the big band era. Attendees are encouraged to dress appropriate to the 1940's and be in the running for best dressed prizes for male, female and youngen.

That's right folks this is a family friendly event and its free

Put on them dancing shoes and be part of this celebration of life in the 1940's as part of what will be a huge weekend of commemorations and celebrations of one of the most significant events in Cowra's history

TRIBUTE SHOW

Appearing at Club Cowra for a lunch show on Thursday, August 8, The Everly Brothers & Buddy Holly Tribute Show takes you on a journey back to the 50' and 60's when rock'n'roll was king

The show features an endless array of Everly Brothers & Buddy Holly classics such as Bye Bye Love, That'll Be The Day, Wake Up Little Susie, Peggy Sue, Love Hurts, Everyday, Walk Right Back, It's So Easy, Cathy's Clown, Rave On, When Will I Be Loved, Heartbeat, Till

I Kissed Ya & Raining In My Heart to name a few The Everly Brothers & Buddy Holly Tribute Show stars Rick Gauci & Steven Burns who lovingly recreate the perfect harmonies of the

the legacy of these music icons and sharing their wonderful songs with modern audiences

If your venue is serious about providing quality rock'n'roll music filled with fun and nostalgia, then look no further than The Everly Brothers & Buddy Holly Tribute Show Tickets are just $15 and available at the door which opens at Midday You can book your table at the Club on 63421144

COMEDY MASTER CLASS

Brad Oakes is a stand-up comic with a career spanning over 30 years.

Brad Oakes, the comic's comic, works as a mentor and director to some of the country's most well known comedians including Tommy Little, Clair Hooper, Dave O'Neil, Lehmo and Corrine Grant.

Rick and Steven are lifelong fans of the Everlys and Buddy and are passionate about continuing

Everlys and the brilliance of Buddy Holly. Rick and Steven have extensive experience as live performers in such acts as "Back to the 70's & 80's", "SOS Australian Abba Tribute Show", "Tusk Fleetwood Mac Storybook" and "The Australian Midnight Oil Tribute Show".

This is a great opportunity to attend one of Brad's highly regarded master classes for free!! So grab a pizza, a cold drink and enjoy comedy coaching from Brad Oakes. Its free book a table on 63421144

The Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly Tribute Show is coming to Cowra.

A big program of events

A CONCISE and engaging program of community and commemorative events is what will greet anyone attending the Cowra Prisoner of War Breakout 80th Anniversary commemorations to be held on Sunday and Monday, August 4 and 5.

The official program of events begins at 8am on Sunday, August 4 with St Raphael's Catholic Church extending an invitation to everyone to join a special Sunday morning service

Special guest at the service will be Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC Governor of NSW who will be the guest of honour at most of the 80th anniversary activities

A Peace Bell Ceremony at 3.30pm marks the start of several linked events.

After speeches and a ceremonial ringing of the World Peace Bell in Darling Street, lone runner Laura Price will carry a lantern from there to the Japanese Garden car park

The car park is the starting point of a Lantern Parade that will travel along Sakura Avenue to the POW Camp Site.

A giant crane, a symbol of hope and peace, will lead a parade of 239 lanterns, each one representing a life lost during the tragic Cowra Breakout

To register for a lantern please contact: ryansclan@bigpond.com

Following placing of the lanterns, a community event will take place at 5pm at the site of the Cowra POW Breakout

With a theme of peace and unity, activities will include a performance by the cast of the new musical 'Intertwined' as well as Japanese soprano Atsuko Arai who will perform with some Cowra school students.

There will be a special peace poem and a summary of the POW Breakout story and its legacy of peace, reconciliation and international understanding.

The official Mayoral Dinner will be held at the Cowra Showground pavilion with special guest and keynote speaker Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC Governor of NSW.

Tickets for the dinner are available online at breakoutmayoraldinner.eventbrite.com au

Solo sailor visiting

SOLO sailor Lisa Blair will be discussing international solo sailing on her yacht Climate Action Now when she speaks to Cowra students at the Cowra Civic Centre on Friday, August 9 as part of National Science Week

The event is for Cowra students only Ms Blair holds multiple world records

She is also an advocate for climate change, which she promotes through her Climate Action Now project.

She has written a book, Facing Fear, about her first attempt at circumnavigating Antarctica solo

On May 25, 2022, she became the fastest person in the world to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted around Antarctica, taking 10 days off the previous record.

The feat is a challenge that only two others have undertaken.

The presentation is supported by the Cowra Natural Resource Management Advisory Committee, CLEAN Cowra, Orange Cowra Cabonne Science Hub, The Corridor Project.

– ANDREW FISHER

At 1.30am on Monday, August 5 a Commemorative Event will be held at the POW Camp site

Compered by filmmaker and TV presenter Greg Grainger the event will focus on the story of the Cowra Breakout and its historical significance

Attendees will have the chance to contemplate the profound human cost and how this tragedy paved the way for ongoing reconciliation between Australia and Japan.

Events culminate with wreath laying ceremonies in both the Australian and Japanese War Cemeteries commencing at 9.30am, featuring the Australian Federation Guard and a quintet from the band of the Royal Military College Duntroon.

Wreath laying by dignitaries, community members and organisations will commence in the Australian War Cemetery

At 10am a flyover by an RAAF F-35A Fight-

Solo sailor Lisa Blair will speak with Cowra students on August 5 as part of National Science Week

er will take place playing tribute to the current partnership by the RAAF and Japan Air Self-Defence's first international deployment of F-35As

Participants, dignitaries and members of the public will move to the Japanese Cemetery where wreath laying will continue, followed by both Buddhist and Shinto Ceremonies

Cowra Visitors' Centre Historical Display - July 29 to August 10, featuring images and artefacts form the Cowra Prisoner of War Camp Open daily 9am to 5pm

Capturing the Home Front - A touring exhibition from the Australian National Maritime Museum that focusses on life at home during WWII.

Featuring photographs by American photojournalist, Dorothea Lange, and Australian photographers, Samuel Hood, William Cranstone, Hedley Keith Cullen and Jim Fitz-

patrick. Also on display will be a selection of significant items relevant to the Cowra POW Breakout

On Saturday, August 3, Club Cowra will host Cowra Remembers Dance - A 1940s Perspective. Commencing at 6.30pm the event features a live band, free entry and dancing with prizes for the best dressed.

From 10am to 3pm Cowra's Lachlan Valley Railway Society will be running heritage rail journeys from Cowra railway station to the eastern bank of the Lachlan River.

Booking aren't necessary and intending passengers can purchase their tickets at Cowra railway station on the day.

As a mark of the significance of the Cowra Breakout 80th Anniversary, entry to the Cowra Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre will be free to all on Monday, August 5.

All aboard for Landcare Week

MID Lachlan Landcare will be hosting a popup store in Cowra from August 5 to August 9 to celebrate Landcare Week

There will also also be a 'mystery bus' tour showcasing the range of work by Landcare's volunteers across the region.

With 2024 marking 35 years of Landcare as a national movement, Mid Lachlan's Amanda Foxon-Hill says the pop up store and tour is a great opportunity to show some of the successful projects, and implementations of strategies Landcare has taken when looking after the Mid Lachlan region.

"So from our popup store in Cowra, we'll take the bus out towards Canowindra and back via Woodstock back towards Cowra. Along the way we'll stop off at properties and see how people are managing salinity, different landscape features, erosion control, sustainable grazing practices, tree corridors shelter belts - all sorts of things."

Ms Foxon-Hill says Cowra Shire people are "very good at looking after the land".

"We should all pat ourselves on the back, really. We get a lot of enthusiasm. What we're trying to do now is show community the work in action, and how we support landholders and residents."

With a theme this year's Landcare Week focusing on inclusivity, Ms Foxon-Hill says she'd like to dispel myths that volunteering for Landcare is just about turning up and planting trees.

"Landcare is for everybody. Caring for the land works in a lot of different ways Everybody has something to give and contribute, turning up every week and planting trees is part of it But that's only a small part of it We also do species monitoring - squirrel glider monitoring, as well as education. While there are these big projects and successes there's also these other projects - we want to empower people to be able to look after their particular patch of interest."

The meeting point for Landcare Week's popup store will be opposite Silly Solly's, with the guests arriving at 12 to take the tour on Wednesday.

Tickets are free, and available via the link: https://events.humanitix.com/landcareweek-mid-lachlan-catchment-tour

The pop up store times are Monday 5th - 10am to 4pm, Tuesday 6th - 10am - 4pm, Wednesday 7th - 9am - 3pm, Thursday 8th9.30am to 4pm and Friday 9th - 10am to 2pm – DAN RYAN

A view of a section of the camp Photo AWM.

New cabins popular

BY DANE MILLERD

COWRA Van Park has unveiled a fresh chapter in its hospitality story with the recent installation of six new cabins last month, marking a significant milestone in its recovery from recent challenges.

Fully booked since their debut two weeks ago, the cabins have quickly become a sought-after accommodation choice, attracting visitors to Cowra for various events and festivals

"We've been booked out for the Cowra Winter Wanderlust, Cowra Wine Show, Intertwined, and the upcoming 1964 Farlane Club reunion in September, with limited spots left for the 80th Breakout anniversary," said Mitch Barrett, one of the park managers

Following the devastating floods that inundated Cowra

Van Park in 2021 then again in late 2022, the management embarked on a rigorous renovation project to rebuild and enhance the facilities with assistance from Cowra Shire Council.

"The past few years have been challenging with COVID-19 impacts and consecu-

tive floods, making the cabin replacements and repairs quite an adventure," Mitch said.

"You definitely need a sense of humour and patience in this industry," Stacey Barrett, his partner and co-manager, said.

The renovation efforts,

Evergreen ClothingCo.

spanning five months from late 2023 to early 2024, involved meticulous inspections and comprehensive repairs to address flood damage effectively.

Key highlights of the renovation included the installation of welded vinyl flooring, vinyl planks, complete

kitchen setups, fresh coats of paint, and new air conditioning units in each cabin.

These upgrades not only restore functionality but also enhance comfort for guests seeking a relaxing stay amidst Cowra's picturesque landscapes.

"We owe a great deal to Cowra Shire Council for their support throughout these challenging times," Stacey said.

"Their assistance has been invaluable in helping us rebuild and continue offering memorable experiences to our guests."

Looking ahead, Cowra Van Park anticipates a bustling season with upcoming events such as the Penrith RSL reunion, the Japanese Festival, Indigenous Knockout, and the Cowra Show

"The spring and summer months are traditionally our busiest," Stacey said.

Planning has begun for open gardens this year Located in the

Garden club meeting tonight

THE Cowra Garden Club will be holding their annual general meeting Thursday, August 1 from 7.30pm in Seniors Citizens rooms next to Woolworths in Railway Lane

Norm Palazzi will be the guest speaker giving a presentation from his wonderful collection of photos, captured while travelling Australia and America.

Plans are well in hand for the organising of the Cowra Garden Club's annual open gardens weekend with eight beautiful gardens being displayed on Saturday and Sunday, October 19 and 20.

There will be a bus load of garden enthusiasts from Beacroft, Sydney arriving in Cowra for the weekend.

Catering will be in the very capable hands of the Cowra Evening Branch CWA ladies As there will be the usual garden stall over the open gardens weekend and members who are potting up for the stall, this will be greatly appreciated.

After the meeting supper will be served and there will be time for a catch up

Everyone is welcome We look forward to seeing you there.

Bryants building behind Silly Solly’s

Stacey and Mitch Barrett from Cowra Van Park are excited about the future after years of challenges

Photo Dane Millerd.

The interior of one of the new cabins Photo Dane MIllerd.

Three not re-standing

BY DAN RYAN

THEY'LL be at least three new faces on Cowra Shire Council after September's Local Government elections with former mayor Bill West, former deputy mayor Judi Smith and councillor Sharon D'Elboux all indicating they will not re-stand.

Cowra's remaining six Council members have all told the Cowra Guardian they will be running again when ratepayers go to the polls on September 14.

Cr West has served 25 years.

"I have been on Council for 16 years, I have loved it and will miss it, but it's time for new people and new ideas," Cr Judi Smith said of her decision not to re-stand.

Cr Sharon D'Elboux will have served for a term of three years.

Councillors Nikki Kiss and Cheryl Downing have confirmed they will be running for re-election, along with current deputy mayor Cr Paul Smith Cr Downing said "I have enjoyed my experience being a community representative, it is something I have wanted to do for a long time and I found the challenge engaging, I would love to continue".

"If re-elected I intend to continue on the same path of bringing community needs to Council's attention in the chamber.

"I would hope to work with new councillors to back a proactive and progressive attitude to all the things the council does and encourage the community to have a positive attitude Cowra is a great place," she said.

Cr Paul Smith says he has work he's not yet finished, and wants to focus on keeping water rates low, as well as warning that broader economic circumstances need to force Council to focus on what he says are its core responsibilities "I am standing, yes. I believe I've got unfinished business. There's more I can do that I haven't I promised people I'd be able to get water prices down and haven't been able to do that. I'd like to think I could keep them as low as possible; I'm enjoying what I do and there's more I wanted to do yet," he said.

"The biggest challenge we're going to have is future finances With inflation

running higher than rate pegging, it's going to put pressures on the council. And I think we've got to be very careful as to where we spend money. We have got to maintain our basics: our roads, water, sewerage, garbage, that sort of thing. To do that, we might have to look at where we might have to save money elsewhere."

Mayor Ruth Fagan is also standing again, and says she wants to continue the current team's "strong planning and responsible financial management" and maintain stability.

"My main objective is to have a serious discussion with the State Government about a new mid-level bridge crossing and plans for a future bypass This has been on Council's agenda for many years but I am determined to have it included in NSW's future road plans," she said.

"Nothing can be achieved

by councillors alone and it is important we also have a good management team which makes well informed decisions within the resources we have available."

During Mayor Fagan's sixteen years of service, she says "There has been a great deal of progress with the town's community facilities such the Adventure Playground, Civic Centre, new housing and increased manufacturing businesses Council facilities have also improved with a new sewer treatment plant, roads, bridges and upgraded water utilities."

"Council has developed a comprehensive and detailed plan for the future which includes the new bridge as well as walking tracks, refurbished parks, upgraded Council depot and a waste management plan. These are long term plans but every year the Council strives to tick off a few more of these

ideas to make Cowra, a community of which we can be proud."

Councillor Peter Wright says he too is standing again, having first joined Council in 2008 on the basis of planning reform in agriculture and transparency.

In his sixteen years as a councillor he says he brings his 50 years of farming to bolster a unique representation of the agricultural sector to Council.

"I feel the council needs a variety of councillors to have a balanced view of the shire. My interest is rural, which provides 48% of general rates. However, I understand and support residential and industrial growth for the shire to thrive."

Seeking his fifth term on Council, Cr Wright said he expected water and recycling to be issues into the future, with ageing infrastructure due for replacement.

"Issues facing the council include financial capability to deliver services to the shire without significant rate rises. Council is a business that sets the rates & ratepayers have little negotiation to reduce their charges. Therefore, we need to impress on the state & federal government that they need to support the local government to ensure communities can grow."

Also re-standing is Cr Erin Watt, who wants to focus on enacting the Reconciliation Action Plan, as well as work on adapting the council's planning policies to "I think planning policy is something I wanted to tackle after the election. This council and other councils have struggled with decisions around planning not being suitable for their community needs, or having to get around their planning policies It'll be a really big piece of work."

Cr Watt says she also wants to continue to make the town more inviting for visitors and families

"It's a real opportunity to help the community you live in, and leave a lasting legacy It's important to have a lot of different voices in the room I think for a long time it's been quite similar This council has seen a fair bit of change; six women have been elected, three of whom have kids at home and I think it makes a real difference."

She said aspirants should not be deterred if they felt their background wasn't what they might assume is a local government fit.

Residents considering nominating as candidates for the 2024 NSW Local Government elections should read the candidate information page on the NSW Electoral Commission site

Councillors Cheryl Downing, Judi Smith, Paul Smith, Peter Wright,(fr) Ruth Fagan, Erin Watt, Bill West, Nicki Kiss, Sharon D'Elboux

Growth of tree day continues

COWRA Council's National Tree Day was held on Friday, July 26 at the Cowra Adventure Playground from 12-3pm

Like the 2023 event, this year also had a massive turn out from schools across the district

The last Friday in July is dedicated to schools Tree Day.

Each year, thousands of schools participate nationwide in environmental activities that educate individuals about the world around them

Activities on the day ranged from planting bush tucker gardens, building habitat for native wildlife, nature play and plenty of activities

This year organisers also gave away 100 Bare Root Cowra Roses.

"National Tree Day is a great initiative and a beautiful day out, not to mention

a great way to get involved with the community,"

said Pip Childs of Cowra Shire Council

National Tree Day was established in 1996.

Planet Ark's National Tree Day has grown into Australia's largest community tree planting and nature care event.

The program is a call to action for all Australians to get their hands dirty and give back to their community.

Each year, around 300,000 people volunteer their time to engage in environmental activities that educate Australians about the world around them

While every day can be Tree Day, Planet Ark dedicates the celebration of Schools Tree Day and National Tree Day to the last Friday and last Sunday in July each year

Development Application On Exhibition

Notice is hereby given that Cowra Shire Council, as Consent Authority under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, has received the development application as set out in the Schedule 1 below

The application details and plans relating to the development to which this notice refers may be viewed at Cowra Shire Council’s Customer Service Centre, 116 Kendal Street, Cowra between 8.30 am and 4.30 pm Monday to Friday (Public Holidays excepted) or on Council’s website www.cowracouncil.com.au from 25 July 2024 to 8 August 2024.

Any person may make a written submission to the Cowra Shire Council about the proposed development before 4.30 pm on the closing date, being 8 August 2024. If the submission is an objection, the grounds of the objection must be specified in the submission. Written submissions should be addressed to The General Manager, Cowra Shire Council, Private Bag 342, Cowra NSW 2794 or email council@cowra.nsw.gov.au

To assist Council, please include the DA number (10.2024.56.1) with the written submission

The substance of written submissions may be included in a report to Council. Copies of the written submissions may be made available to the applicant for resolution and consideration of issues and concerns raised, prior to determination. Council is subject to Government Information (Public Access) legislation and copies of written submissions may be made available to any person entitled to lodge an application under this legislation. Submission makers are required to comply with Section 10.4 (Disclosure of Political Donations and Gifts) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 which is summarised on Council’s website, click on “Building & Development/ Development Information/Political Donation & Gifts”.

To help the efficiency of the assessment process, no late submission will be considered.

Schedule 1

Development Application being exhibited for 14 Days 25 July 2024 to 8 August 2024

Cowra Council's Pip Childs talk all things plants with local school children during National Tree Day. Photo Dane Millerd.

Jenny White ran a table of keen green thumbs and Teizha Mears along with Tina Smart put the students through the merits of taking care of flora.

Teizha Mears along with Tina Smart put the students through the merits of taking care of flora. Photo Dan Millerd.

Art prize announced

BY NEWROOM

NEWBRIDGE artist David

Lake F.R.A.S. has been announced the winner of the 2024 Cabonne Council Acquisitive Art Prize.

The competition, open to artists who live in Cabonne Shire and surrounding local government areas, showcases the creative talent in this wide region.

David is a Fellow of the Royal Art Society of NSW and has participated in group and solo exhibitions over the past thirty years.

His winning entry was "Island in the Sky," an oil painting on linen.

His work captivated the judges and attendees alike, showcasing his exceptional skill and vision.

Highly Commended

Canowindra's Sue Hodge received a highly commended award for her artwork "Cadia Mine Wheelhouse," demonstrating her outstanding artistic ability and unique perspective.

She also won the People's Choice award for her artwork "Dusk".

The evening also celebrat-

ed the creativity of young artists in our community, with awards given in both primary and secondary school sections.

Primary School Section

1st Place:Elizabeth Jones, Year 5, Canowindra Primary School. 2nd Place:Penny Gosper, Year 5, Manildra Public School 3rd Place:Emmett Dwyer, Year K, Cumnock Public School

Se co nd ar y School Section

1st Place:Jack Ryan, "Dad" (mixedmediaonpaper),Year 12, Molong Central School. 2nd Place:Ella Bunting, "Fridays" (acrylic on board), Year 11, Molong Central School. 3rd Place:Callie Wright, Year 7, Canowindra High School

Highly Commended

Sophie Heath, Year 12, Kinross Wolaroi School

The Cabonne Acquisitive Art Prize Presentation Night was a delightful evening that highlighted the extraordinary artistic talent within our community. Cabonne is incredibly proud to support this event and look forward to continuing to celebrate the creativity and spirit of Cabonne in the future.

Cowra Ladies Probus

THE Cowra Ladies Probus

July meeting was July 12 opened by president Margie Ryan.

Val Brown introduced guest speaker Yvette Pearce from the Bra Room

Val said it should be a very uplifting presentation.

The Bra Room was established in 2022 and is now located next to Coles, specialising in fittings, for breast forms and shapers to recreate balance after breast cancer surgery.

Medicare will reimburse up to $400 every two years for breast form or shapers to make one feel more comfort-

able

Yvette said she cannot match Big W or Kmart prices, but tries to keep prices as competitive as possible with a full range from 6A to O Cup, also having a range of stockings, swim wear, maternity wear, nighties, leggings, singlets and Spencers.

Yvette advised, when buying a a bra or having a fitting that she always uses a tape measure.

She also advised using a brag bag when washing bras and not to hang them in the sun.

Gentlemen you are not forgotten, stocking Australian

brand of men's undies, as well as Jockey long johns and thermal T shirts

Nerida Keay thanked Yvette for an interesting talk

President Margie wished nine ladies happy birthday for July

Forty one members were president and four guests

Dates for Merrimbula trip, March 31 to April 5, 2025.

Trish has information sheets.

Hostesses for next month on August 9 are Nerida Keay, Sandra Anthony-Cox, Beryl Imber and Lorraine Frances.

Sandra's grandson is competing in the Men's Skeet Shooting at the Olympics

THE writings that describe the life of Jesus, written by the apostles and disciples, are the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. They are a remarkable collection of writings, each imparting much about the person of Jesus Christ while revealing something of the personality of the writer and told in the objective, unvarnished manner of a writer of history.

Despite the practical, down-to-earth delivery, there is nothing colourless about these accounts. Each event is told with the smell and taste of the times, and although they are presented in a testifying affirming manner they are not dry-as-dust deliveries devoid of heart and soul. They contain the spark that radiates from people lively, passionate and real. Woven throughout are gems of humour sarcasm irony and the subtleties of word play, the vehemence of insult and the smooth talk of deceit.

ON THURSDAY four tables played at Cowra Bridge with the following results

NS- 1st - Pam Powell and Alayne Gouge 56.25%.

2nd - Joan Hurst and John McLaren 54.17%.

EW - 1st - Lorraine Stubbing and Jean Mary Fagan 54.17%.

2nd - Peter Fagan and Jan Ware 50.00%.

On Monday five and a half tables played for Red Points

NS - 1st - Yvonne Nbell and Stephen Bell 61.25%.

2nd - Joan Hurst and Jenni Fagan 50.42%.

EW - 1st - Annette Udall and John McLaren 65.50%.

2nd - Sally Delaney and Jean Mary Fagan 52.00%.

3rd - Derrian Walsh and Margi Bargwanna 51.00%.

On Sunday, August 11 Parkes will play the Angus Waddell Trophy and on August 24 and 25 Cootamundra will play their Congress The Cowra Bridge Club meets at Club Cowra at 12.30pm on Monday and Thursday with players asked to be seated by 12.15 in winter Members also play at 1pm on the first Tuesday of the month

Red Cross 100th birthday

MEMBERS of Cowra Branch of Australian Red Cross met in July for a short general meeting followed by an annual meeting.

Members continued preparation for the branch's 100th Birthday on Wednesday, August 14 at Cowra Bowling Club

More hospital emergency bags have been prepared and Heather showed a lovely 'fiddle bag,' similar to those delivered to aged care providers.

Again, it was noted that the correct Red Cross pattern for knitted teddies and squash balls are available from Sue.

FOCUS ON LIVING “THE TRAP”

One example is told sparely as many of them are told. The Pharisees laid plans to trap Jesus in his words. Matthew tells us, “They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. ‘Teacher’, they said, ‘we know that you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren’t swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are. Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not?’ “

Of course, that would make anyone smell a rat What we are shown is human treachery under a magnifying glass

butter up the target then drop the trap. Just as we could spot it from afar, Jesus was onto them. Matthew wrote, “But Jesus, knowing their evil intent, said, ‘You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me? Show me the coin used for paying the tax.’ They brought him a denarius, and he asked them, ‘Whose image is this? And whose inscription?’

An abbreviated annual meeting followed with welcome to Morongla visitor Barbara. Most elected positions continuing except for secretary and treasurer

Two Fire and Rescue officers were welcomed who gave most helpful information about fire safety.

Helpful advice to 'keep looking when cooking,' the dangers of lithium batteries (which should only be recharged outside, and never near exits or entries), deadlocked doors in emergencies; not retrieving items once a fire begins, a reminder to check electric blankets,

keeping heaters away from curtains and clothes Candles not left burning, and that gas heaters need annual service In a fire, internal doors should be closed and if unable to leave a room, an item of clothing draped from a window will alert officers outside that someone is within.

The local branch is always delighted to welcome new members.

A brief monthly meeting is planned for Monday 12th August

Any queries about Cowra Red Cross to PO Box 262 Cowra 2794.

‘Caesar’s,’ they replied. Then he said to them, ‘So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.’ When they heard this, they were amazed. So they left him and went away” (Matthew 22:15-22).

Their intention was to corner him so that whatever he replied he was snared. If Jesus had answered, “Do not pay Caesar”, they could report him to the Romans as a dissenter against Rome. If he had answered, “Pay the Romans’ taxes”, they would label him a traitor to his people who were ruled by Rome. Jesus’s cleverly shrewd answer drew from their own lips what he did not say himself. In typical fashion, he then closed with a thinly masked comeback causing them to work out the conclusion for themselves.

The thing about Jesus is that he makes you think. And he knows that the thing about thinking is that conclusions we draw for ourselves make a deeper, more lasting impression than a hundred ready-made answers.

Newbridge artist David Lake, winner of the 2024 Cabonne Acquisitive Art prize. Image supplied.

Helping young drivers

BY DANE MILLERD

AS YOUNG drivers take to the road, mastering safe driving practices is paramount.

PCYC Cowra is this week

holding a Safer Driver Course (SDC), aimed at equipping young drivers with essential skills and earning them valuable log book hours.

Scheduled for August 2 and 3 this comprehensive

course promises to enhance road safety awareness and provide participants with 20 hours of log book credit The course is structured across two modules, ensuring thorough coverage of critical driving topics.

Course Details:

Module 1: August 2nd, 2024, from 5pm to 8pm

Module 2: August 3rd, 2024, with sessions from 8am

Cowra's coldest week since 2018

COWRA has recorded some of it's coldest days in seven years this week according to the Bureau of Meteorology

On Tuesday July 30 at 7am, Cowra registered -3.5 degrees, the coldest daily July temperature since July 15, 2018 when it recorded a record -5.8. Ironically, that same month and year also saw Cowra record it's highest ever temperature for July with 22.2 on July 5, 2018. That year, Cowra had a monthly mean low of 0.1 de-

grees - also a record. The forecast for the next couple of days is

Today, August 1 - -2 to 15. Friday, August 2 - 0-15. Saturday, August 3 - 1-16. Sunday, August 4 - 1-15.

The wintry chill gripping southeastern Australia is expected to last the week as dry and cold air combines with blustery winds causing extreme cold. So rug up, stay indoors and fire up the heater!

–

DANE MILLERD

to 10am, 9.30am to 11.30am, and 11am to 1pm

Participants will delve into essential road safety rules, defensive driving techniques, and practical strategies for navigating various driving scenarios The course is open to young drivers who have already accumulated 50 hours in their log books, providing them an opportunity to gain further expertise un-

der professional guidance

Registration and Cost: Enrolment is available now at a cost of $140 Secure your spot by visiting PCYC Driver Education.

Why Choose PCYC Cowra's Safer Driver Course? PCYC Cowra is renowned for its commitment to youth development and community safety. The Safer Driver Course underscores this

dedication by empowering young drivers with knowledge that extends beyond basic driving skills Participants not only enhance their safety on the road but also fulfill log book requirements essential for progressing through the licensing process.

Booking Information:

Email: cowra@pcycnsw. org.au

Phone: (02) 6341 2035

ING

ACCLAIMED British comedian and television star, Ross Noble will be in Cowra this Friday August 2 for a one-off stand up gig starting at 8pm Born in Newcastle upon Tyne in 1976, Noble, the son of two teachers, gained popularity through various appearances on British television as a panelist on Have I Got New For You. In 2007 he was voted number 10 on the 100 Greatest Stand-Ups list and in 2012 made his film debut in horror comedy Stitches

He was nominated for a Laurence Olivier Award in 2018 for his performance in Young Frankenstein in the West End and in 2021 he appeared in the fifth season of The Celebrity Apprentice Australia where he finished runner-up and raised over $100,000 for the Australian Red Cross Disaster Response and Recovery Fund. For tickets to the Ross Noble show go to - https://cowra.sales.ticketsearch.com/ sales/salesevent/131147

DANE MILLERD

–

Wages Paid to the Irish Orphans from 1849 to 1851. This will be a rare opportunity to view the original register The date is Tuesday 6th August from 1.30pm to 3pm. Bookings are required, phone 6333 6281 or email: library@bathurst.nsw.gov.au. Bathurst Library is located at 70 –78 Keppel Street, with parking behind. Do you know that FamilySearch, based in Salt Lake City in the United States has one of the most comprehensive collections of birth, marriage and death records from around the world and most are free to search? Further, both Cowra Family History Group and Cowra Library are Affiliated FamilySearch Libraries, so FamilySearch can be easily accessed on our computers. Although free, each user needs to set up their own account. In July, FamilySearch conducted some free webinars to help researchers find their immigrant ancestors, including Chinese, Italian, Jewish, Middle Eastern, United States, Latin American and Norwegian ancestry These are available to watch on demand and may be useful to those with ancestors from those areas of the world

Did you have an Ancestor who worked at Ireland’s Dublin Port? A cache of newly digitised photographs from the 1920’s to the 1960’s are the latest addition to the Dublin Port Archive (DPA). The DPA now comprises approximately 75,000 photographs, 30,000 engineering drawings, 600 historical registers, a series of yearbooks beginning in 1926, as well as maps and administration files, which include a volume recording employees’ names for the period 1906 – 1925. The earliest item in the archive dates from 1707. If you have ancestors who once worked in the Dublin dockyard then the DPA website is an important resource to consult.

Our next meeting will be held in the Cowra Library at 2.00pm on Saturday 3rd August 2024. Note the change of venue as the Nguluway Room is being used for another function. As the Library closes at 12 noon, entry will be via the door into the Family History room situated on the wall to the left of the main library doors. Please stay and join us for afternoon tea following the meeting. Don’t forget that you can come and do research in our room beforehand, from 10.00am – bring your lunch and make a day of it (we have a fridge and microwave available for use). Visitors and prospective new members are always most welcome.

Frosty mornings have become a common sight in Cowra this July

Back for another term

TERM 3 Begins!

Cowra Public School students have come back ready and refreshed for another busy term, following the twoweek winter holiday break.

A warm welcome is extended to all new families who have joined the CPS school community, and staff and students are looking forward to an exciting term ahead.

Quality activities at St Raphs

AT ST Raph's we are committed to providing a comprehensive educational experience

With our highly trained staff, and through innovative partnerships with community organisations and allied health, our Learning Engagement and Learning Enrichment Teams continue to deliver high quality activities and social development programs for the benefit of all students across Kindergarten to Year 12.

The combination of EngagementandEnrichmentis integral in building respectful relationships, providing ongoing pastoral care and maintaining high expectations of performance and wellbeing, from and for, our whole St Raphael's Catholic School community.

To cater to the diverse needs and abilities of our students, we offer a range of tailored programs that include both extension and remediation. Our dedicated team tailor their approach to meet the unique needs of

Stage 2 and Stage 3 Extension Mathematics Program

This term, a targeted group of Stage 2 and Stage 3 students, will be taking part in a ten-week mathematics extension program, run by the NSW Department of Education's Small Group Tuition Team

Students started this program on the first day back this term, and were

introduced to their on-line teachers who assisted them to become familiar with the online learning platform they will be using, which is called "Nearpod".

This is a fabulous opportunity for our high potential maths students to receive some additional support to extend their capabilities, as mathematicians, and we look forward to seeing

their progress throughout this term

Welcome Ms Lambshead!

We extend a very warm welcome to Ms Erin Lambshead who joins the Cowra Public School staff, this term Ms Lambshead will be teaching Wiradyuri language and culture and will be at CPS on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons

Each class will receive a

students at different stages of their educational journey.

Programs include:

■ MiniLit and MacqLit: Our commitment to fostering strong literacy skills has seen students make significant strides in reading and comprehension,

equipping them with essential tools for lifelong learning.

■ QuickSmart: Numeracy proficiency is a core component of our curriculum Through QuickSmart, our students have enhanced their mathematical abilities and

critical thinking skills.

■ SRA Writing: A strong emphasis on scaffolded writing allows our students to develop their skills in written expression.

■ Special Provisions: As we approach exam time, this program ensures that

30-minute Wiradyuri language lesson each fortnight and are very excited to have Erin working with them and sharing her knowledge and expertise!

Pictured: Stage 3 student, Bella O'Malveney is pictured participating in an online mathematics extension program offered this term at Cowra Public School. Bella O'Malveney

every student receives the necessary support to perform confidently and to the best of their abilities during assessments, and

■ One to One Assistance provided by our School Learning Support Officers.

2025 Enrolments are now

open! We encourage you to visit St Raphael's to witness first-hand the unique blend of strength and gentleness that defines our school, dedicated to your child's growth and development. Kylie McNamara & Craig Jeffries

Learning Engagement and Learning Enrichment Teams deliver high quality activities and social development programs at St Raphael's.

The ultimate in traceability

BY DAN RYAN

Fresh from farm

STEPHEN Waples is filling a gap in the butchering and meat processing industry

His mobile, small capacity butchery travels from his home in Greenethorpe to provide on-farm-butchery services which he describes as the 'ultimate traceability' from paddock to plate

"People still don't quite understand or know that I can do this on your place, its yours," he said.

"Local abattoirs have stopped doing small batches."

"Now they're not taking less than 10, if you wanted to put in eight or nine at a time you have to combine with someone else or you're out of luck."

"For me, 10 is the maximum, four is my minimum, anywhere between that and I'm happy. It keeps the truck running and myself and my family fed."

Having grown up on a farm in New Zealand, Stephen said the skills of butchering and processing meat was something he was lucky enough to have had passed on to him from a young age

Seeing an opportunity in the lack of on-farm butcher services, the commute and wash down after each job is a small price to pay to be on the road and meet people in the community and across the industry.

"I find a lot of guys refer to you as my butcher - it becomes a little personal," Stephen said.

"A friend who is just retiring now has been butchering for many years, he's seen the kids grow up, it's like an old friend coming to visit

JusthowfarStephenranges with the service is something he's still figuring out

However with his business SB Rural having started just three months ago and his services already in demand through until September, things are looking promising.

"I'm still figuring out how far we should go We'd be happy to go out as far as Cargo or Eugowra, I've got a job near Cootamundra - so it's a broad area we cover, about two hours of driving either side of the job is probably the limit," he said.

Where does the service fit in the industry?

"It's for people who want to consume their own product For people who might have 10, 20 or 60 acres and they've got their own sheep, cows or whatever the case may be - and they want to go from raising these animals to consuming them."

"It's really good for small batches It is specifically designed for home consumption market."

"Anything butchered on-farm is unable to be sold commercially; it's not branded or meat inspected," Stephen Said.

■ continued on page 2.

Stephen Waples at work in his on farm butchery

Photo Daniel Ryan.

Sensible approach needed

NSW Shadow Water Minister Steph Cooke says it is only a matter of time before Federal Government water buybacks start to impact household budgets across the country.

Ms Cooke said the buybacks will impact household budgets as the flow-on effect from purchasing water from irrigators drives up the cost of production in the Murray Darling Basin.

Ms Cooke said the Federal

Government has this week launched a tender seeking to buy up to 70GL of water entitlements in the Southern Basin - all aimed towards fulfilling the 450GL environmental target set out in the revised Murray Darling Basin Plan.

"It won't just be the Basin communities directly impacted by buybacks that will feel the pinch of this ill-considered policy; before long, the reality of buybacks will start to bite in the cities too," Ms Cooke said.

"The perfect example is the recent ripple effect the bird flu has had on our egg industry; from the supermarkets imposing buying limits on eggs, to McDonalds limiting the hours you can buy breakfast.

"Sooner or later, every single Australian - regardless of where they live - feels the pain when our food and fibre production and supply is interrupted or compromised

"As recent reports from the ACCC, and ABARES has reiterated, the Federal Gov-

ernment's plan to strip more water out of Basin communities risks increasing water bills for irrigators.

"Producers will inevitably have to pass on these costs to consumers, which will only compound the cost-of-living crisis for struggling families regardless of their postcode," she said.

Ms Cooke said governments - both at a state and federal level - must work harder and faster to implement non-purchase water recovery options, such as

Stephen cutting up a lamb in his on farm butchery Image supplied

vital water saving infrastructure.

"As the ABARES report pointed out, reducing water in the Basin will reduce overall productivity.

"This will obviously hamper our ability to not only sustain our growing population but will also put at risk our future export potential, and compromising our reputation as a world-class producer of premium primary produce," Ms Cooke said.

"I'm calling on state and federal ministers to adopt a

sensible approach to safeguarding the economic and social sustainability of our communities, while also preserving the environment; these outcomes aren't mutually exclusive.

"Our Basin communities are the engine room of the state's economy; we simply cannot afford to put this in peril, and must invest the time and money now, to get this right for the benefit of future generations across the entire country," she said.

The ultimate in traceability

■ continued from page 1.

It is done in as clean and sanitary an environment as we can provide on-farm.

Stephen says that for the scale he operates on, onfarm butchery is a great way for people to access their own produce and know the process from start to finish

"It's the ultimate traceability," he said. "That animal has never left your farm, you've raised it, you've fattened it up yourself and instead of sending it away to the abbatoir - we cna process it right there. You get to control the whole process. "

"The number one doubt I've heard people express

when sending their animals to the works is 'is it my animal coming back?' or is it someone else's?"

"When it's killed on-farm, it's stress free That animal can be grazing in the paddock that morning and then be in the coolroom by lunch, done without the stress of going through transport and processing at the abs."

"You get to enjoy your cutlets, roasts, sirloins, scotch, sausages - the best cuts that people are paying hundreds of dollars for at the supermarket and we're doing it at an affordable price."

SB Rural can be contacted on 0457 502 945

Bring on virtual fences, farmers say

CALLS for virtual fencing to be legalised in NSW have come to a head as the state's peak farming body fronted a NSW government inquiry into the matter.

Appearing at a hearing held as part of the inquiry

NSW Farmers Animal Welfare Committee chair Robert McIntosh said virtual fencing

had a significant range of benefits that farmers could access if the technology was legalized for use in NSW.

"The science and technology behind virtual fencing indicates this tool has significant benefits for animal welfare, while also delivering better economic returns for farmers through grazing effi-

ciencies," Mr McIntosh said

"In the event of floods, fires and other natural disasters, this technology could well be used to help move livestock to safe areas, without putting humans or animals at risk

"Reduced fencing costs and enabling noxious weeds to be fenced off and controlled are just two other

benefits of virtual fencing which we could see farmers take advantage of if the technology was legalised in NSW.

"In reality, the sky's the limit when it comes to what's possible with this tool - we just need to be able to use it."

With the technology already permitted for commercial use in a number of

other states, Mr McIntosh said it was critical NSW legislation was amended to enable farmers to take advantage of virtual fencing within the state.

"Across Australia and even the world, farmers are reaping the rewards of virtual fencing - so it's time for NSW to come up to speed.

"Virtual fencing has great potential for the sustainability of the natural environment in which we farm, as well as the human resources of our farmers, so it could well prove critical to increasing efficiencies within our industry," Mr McIntosh said.

Top dogs put on a show

BY MADELINE BLACKSTOCK

THE Forbes Working Dog Club and Auction have had another successful weekend on July 20 and 21 despite the testing weather conditions

Thirty-eight out of 49 dogs found a new home after their efforts over the weekend.

The majority of the dogs were sold on the day, either to those on site for the auction or online via AuctionsPlus.

On Friday the dogs were put through their paces with paddock demonstrations on sheep, goats and cattle

Forbes Working Dog Club President Olly Hanson said Friday went very well as the demonstrations gained a lot of views on their livestream which is one of the main purposes of the day.

"A few people turned up to watch in person as well," Hanson said.

On Friday night the Forbes Working Dog Club also held a charity auction, raising money for the Forbes Domestic and Family Violence Committee.

"We had our charity dinner on the Friday night and auction, that went really well," he said.

"We were happy with the people that turned up and we raised just short of $14,000 on the night for the cause and by the end of it it'll be a little bit more as some commission will go towards the total too."

On Saturday the anticipated auction was held in cold and windy conditions

"The auction itself on the Saturday was pretty hard going, just the weather was miserable and it didn't make anything easy, but the Elders auctioneer did really well selling on the day," Mr Hanson said.

The top selling dog was Boadbents Dottie which sold for $21,000.

Boadbents Dottie is the full sister to last year's top selling dog at $15,500 from Zeb Broadbent all the way from Yarraberb in Victoria

James Rayner from Stony Creek sold the top priced pup which is his fourth year in a row selling the top priced dog under 12 months

Thomas Woolford from Galong sold the top priced male, Northwest Jax at $8,750

Josh, Danni and Angus Messina from Canowindra Photo by Jennifer Kingham.

Kahlee O’Leary of Dubbo holding Marista Bow, 3 months old Kelpie pup from Young. Photo Jennifer Kingham.

Heidi Lydford holding Kate Johnson. Photo Jennifer Kingham.

James Rayner of Stony Creek with 8 month old Stoneycreek Dazzle Photo Jennifer Kingham.

Broadbent’s Dottie, a 1yr 11months Kelpie owned by Zeb Broadbent of Yarraberb achieved the highest price of the day selling for $21,000 Photo by Jennifer Kingham.

Denis Mitchell of Berrigan with Border Collie Ally Photo Jennifer Kingham. Tyson and Jaimee Maldoner from Tasmania with their kelpies Vicky, 1yr 5 months and Sunni 10 months old.

Adrian Hodges of Forbes with some of his Bullseye Leather whips. Photo Jennifer Kingham.

Daniel Lutz of Henty 4 month old started Kelpie pup Loffler Lucy Photo Jennifer Kingham.

More than just a job

Bill Dunn retires

ANY career in agriculture is much more than a job.

Being a stock and station agent is a lifestyle, and even as Forbes Bill Dunn retires after more than 50 years in the industry he's guessing he won't be too quick to cut ties

He counts those he's worked with as friends, and that phone he's been connected to for so long - well, he won't just switch it off.

An opening at Forbes Livestock came up not too long after Bill had left school and he's been there ever since

Bill's father Ray was an agent and his son took to the livestock side of the business from an early age, joining Noel "Digger" Besgrove and Geoff Chandler in business when the opportunity arose.

In the decades since prices have crashed and they have soared, relentless rains have flooded the landscape, then dried up just as dramatically and left it a dustbowl.

As an agent, Bill's been right there with livestock owners through it all - and the boom prices of the past few years still have him amazed

"This is unbelievable the amount of money that was generated then for the exact same article that we're generating now," he said, reflecting on the 60 per cent drop of late last year

"When I started it was a disaster, sheep were making

$3 or $4," he added, with those older in the industry suggesting he think seriously about getting into it

But Bill did have a passion for and confidence in the industry long term - and believes wholeheartedly in its value to Forbes and district

Bill was president of the associated agents, representative body for the stock and station agents, in the years the Central West Livestock Exchange was built

The presidency actually used to rotate from agent to agent on an annual basis and Forbes Livestock nominated Bill when their time came around.

He had a bit too much going on to hand over the baton at the conclusion of his term so he served another, and ended up holding the role for 11 or 12 years.

For those who don't remember the earlier saleyards were where the Forbes Homemaker now stands,

much closer to town, and they were all on one level.

Forbes delegates travelled the regions looking at other modern selling centres before coming up with the plans for the now well established Central West Livestock Exchange

He recalls the anxiety about the cost of the new selling centre but believes it's a legacy - one that pays for itself and benefits the local economy with all those coming to town for the sales

There are seven agents selling weekly at sheep and cattle sales - and Forbes Livestock alone would have as many as 18 staff out there on a sale day, Bill said.

Sale days are big events, with some huge numbers through the yards.

Agents would be at work by lunchtime Sunday to get ready for Monday's cattle sale, then straight back out to draft sheep for the Tuesday sale

"These boys last Tuesday started at 2am to get ready for a 10am sale start, and they don't get out of there until 4 or 5 in the afternoon," Bill said.

Of course it's not just the weather and the markets that have changed in the industry, computerisation, mobile phones, the diversification of livestock breeds such as the introduction of Dorper sheep

Forbes Livestock was early to venture into computer systems and Bill remembers the trip to Wollongong to purchase the first.

"It had a four disc drive, it was like the abacus of computers," he says, describing a unit more than a metre high and two wide

"It did save a lot of time as long as you remembered that you had to do things in the correct order."

Bill had been raised with meticulous hand written records of everything but the

business was growing and they had to account to every client.

The internet and specifically online auction platforms changed everything again, with Bill particularly noticing the drop off in travelling to regional store sales where he used to meet so many people in the industry.

The next change to come is the introduction of electronic ID for sheep - the systems now in place at the Central West Livestock Exchange and getting ready for it all to become mandatory from January 1, 2025.

One of the biggest changes has been the introduction - and rapid spread - of the mobile phone

Agents are known for the hours they spend on the phone, as well as on the road, and phones have meant the two can be combined - at least while you're in range.

Before that, he'd be up from 6am to get on the phone by 6.30am, spend the day at work and get on the phone again as soon as he'd finished dinner

Bill knew which clients to phone before 7.15am because they'd be out in the paddock early and which to catch a little later.

However and whenever you contact them, what hasn't changed is that the life of an agent is all about the people.

Forbes Livestock works not only around Forbes and Parkes but to Wellington, Narromine, Lake Cargelligo and to the west, to Cowra and nearly to Bathurst.

They also have excellent relationships with reciprocal agents to extend their reach.

"It's a life style this game rather than a job, it goes pretty much 24/7," Bill said.

"The people you deal with are your clients but they're also your friends, your mates, and that's the biggest part that I'm going to miss."

He's loved the job: its constants like Monday sheep sale and Tuesday cattle sale that have driven his week for so long, and the

Although he's formally retired, Bill won't be changing his phone number and he hopes those he's remained in contact with over many years will continue to pick up the phone and give him a call for a chat.

He and Carol won't have any trouble filling the days with their plans to spend more time with the grandchildren and hopefully doing a bit of travel.

But after more than five decades in the industry, he's worked with generations in some family and they'll always be mates.

"I'm not just going to turn the phone off," he

Bill Dunn (centre) with Forbes Livestock's Tim Mackay and Randall Grayson. Picture Forbes Livestock

YLAD, 22 yrs experience

YLAD Living Soils recently hosted a free Planning for Production Field Day for 70 farmers who practiced monitoring crop and soil health and learned responses to improve production.

Strategically, this event was held in mid-winter when farmers have the biggest opportunity to spur photosynthetic activity.

Farmers visited two properties at different stages of building soil health, including Milgadara, the property of Bill and Rhonda Daly, the founders of YLAD Living Soil and Duncan and Leigh Stewart';s 'Eulo' at Kingsvale

Said presenter Prof Justin Borowitz, of ANU, "The long term expertise of Bill and Rhonda complimented so well Duncan and Leigh's experience of change, challenge and success on their farm."

At Milgadara, attendees observed and discussed rotational multi-species, longterm perennial pastures and triticale for use in a rotation.

While in the paddocks, Rhonda highlighted how microbial biomass is "the best single estimate of soil quality". Microbial biomass refers to dead microbes that build humus and soil organic carbon.

Farmers measured Rocky, a standout paddock at Milgadara, at 862 ug Attendees also measured Rocky's fungi to bacteria ratio A bacterial dominant pasture indicates lower soil health, whereas more equal fungi to bacteria ratios demonstrate improved soil health Rocky's ratio was

1.3-to-1, which demonstrates "incredible, resilient, soil, supporting healthy production with no disease or pest pressure " according to attending agronomists

Participants also saw visual clues of health, including a profound amount of humus build up with fungal outcrops all over the paddock The critical importance of crop monitoring in high production agriculture was a theme of the day.

According to Rhonda, "In-field monitoring tools offer the grower immediate feedback which in turn allows rapid response to any problem identified This enhanced response capacity

can make a tremendous difference to the bottom line."

Participants gained other monitoring experience at 'Eulo' under three different crops (faba beans, canola, and multi-species cover crop), and saw how Duncan implemented the use of YLAD Living Soil's Humus Compost, both as a spread blend and a extracted Humus Tea to improve soil structure and plant health

In the faba beans, initially planted with YLAD's extracted tea as liquid injection and Germinate Plus, farmers saw pink nodulation, which confirms nitrogen-fixing bacteria are happily working away in the roots They also

saw impressive rhizospheres (dreadlock-like healthy microbial communities) surrounding the roots, another sign of healthy soil-plant relationships

The participants' leaf tissue tests of the canola crop showed plenty of nitrogen, but deficient levels of calcium, magnesium, boron and sulphur While these essential nutrients can be supplied by healthy soils with microbial diversity, a YLAD Living Soil foliar application can be applied in the short-term, to ramp up the photosynthetic engine, while their soil complexity grows.

Attendees and speakers agreed the field day was very valuable, as summarised by one attendee: "It is wonderful to see deepening top soil and all done in a profitable farming system. I hope what you have kick started continues to gain momentum. I for one hope to continue to hang onto your coattails Thank you for generously putting on the day.'

For guidance on getting started please email info@ yladivingsoils,com.au or phone 1300 811 681.

High levels of humus build up ensures soil functionality and long term resilience

Microbiometer readings indicate that building soil health is possible in any soil

RAMS BRED WITH RESILIENCE –NO PRODUCTION FEEDING

INSPECTION DAY –

FRIDAY 20TH SEPTEMBER 2024

• Ram inspection 1pm – 3pm

• Rams in lot numbers

RAM SALE –

WEDNESDAY 2ND OCTOBER 2024

Heavy cutting commercial sheep

• FLEECE WEIGHTS:

Long term average of 19.5 micron, 7.2kg in adult ewes.

• FERTILITY & GOOD MOTHERING:

High percentage of lambs weaned to ewes joined.

Our stud ewes must rear lambs as a maiden to retain their place in the stud.

RAMS ANNUAL SALE

• Offering top 75 Poll & Merino rams

• Inspection from 10.30am. Inspections prior to the sale by appointment

• BBQ lunch 12pm • Sale commences 1pm

• For more info, call Boyd Aveyard 0482 921 087 Jake Lebrocque 0429 571 643

GENOMICS AND BREECH WRINKLE DATA OFFERED

Strict selection at Barnnaby Angus

THE Bannaby Angus operation spans over 4,500 hectares around Taralga and 600 hectares at Bendick Murrell, near Young.

The cattle herd currently includes over 1,200 Angus commercial females and more than 450 stud females and recipients.

Initially, the focus of the operation was to produce premium quality Angus genetics for use across the commercial herd. Over time, the stud operation grew, culminating in the first on-site bull sale in August 2011.

The breeding program at Bannaby Angus prioritises producing highly profitable cattle with positive calving ease, strong growth, superior carcass performance, quiet temperament, and, most importantly, structural correctness.

The operation began with the belief that top-quality bulls come from a top-quality female herd.

Over the last 15 years, they have acquired the best available females at leading herd dispersal sales and major

herd reductions

Bannaby Angus is dedicated to producing strong and functional cattle that are phenotypically correct and structurally sound.

The operation remains committed to the structural basics despite increasing pressure to focus solely on genetic gain and carcass qualities.All cattle at Bannaby Angus are independently assessed Weaner cattle are assessed annually, and bulls are assessed just prior to the annual sale

The operation has actively focused on feed efficiency since feed efficiency EBVs (Estimated Breeding Values) became widely available

The goal is to gain more kilograms of beef from less feed, benefiting the economics of the cattle business.

Bannaby Angus selects beef sires with favorable feed efficiency EBVs, anticipating an industry-wide shift towards increased feed efficiency, similar to the pork and poultry industries

Bannaby bulls are pasture and hay-fed exclusively on

the Bannaby properties, with no grain or pellets

In very poor seasons, supplementary feeding with high-protein products may occur, but clients are always informed before purchase

This approach ensures that bulls are immediately ready to work upon purchase after settling in.

Bannaby Angus runs a commercial herd of over 1,200 cows and has exclusively used Bannaby Angus bulls for nearly 20 years. Their weaners regularly top saleyard prices and are highly sought after The stud herd is managed with the same principles as the commercial herd. All heifers are required to calve at 2 years of age, and first calvers are expected to become pregnant to AI or the cover bull within six weeks.

Females are constantly assessed for structural correctness, and those found wanting are culled regardless of their genetics This strict natural selection ensures fertility, temperament, and structural correctness.

bannaby angus ANNUAL BULL SALE

Tivoli Angus sale Aug 8

TIVOLI Angus Stud is run in conjunction with our commercial Angus breeding operation, under the banner of Springfield Merriwa Past Company.

Our goal is to breed seedstock that are adapted to a range of environments to align with top end markets and be in the top 10 percent of profitable beef production.

The cattle must be highly fertile, structurally correct, quiet in temperament and easy-doing types with high meat quality and carcase traits Females must calve down as 2-year-olds and successfully rear a calf each year

Tivoli Angus registered stud bulls and a selection of high quality, classed females, are sold at our on-farm Spring bull sale held in early August each year

This year's sale is at 1pm on Thursday, August 8 and we are holding an open day to inspect the bulls and females on the prior Thursday, August 1, 2024.

Tivoli Angus bulls have been bred using top Australian and overseas genetics

If you are after growth and performance in your cattle then consider purchasing a Tivoli Angus bull at our 2024 sale

Sires featured include Millah Murrah Paratrooper, Dunoon Prime Minister, Texas Iceman, Millah Murrah

Quixote Q96 and Chiltern Park Moe. These bulls have excellent structure and muscle, and high growth

Other sires represented are Rennylea Picasso, Landfall Mainland Q494, Milwillah Napa, Stoney Point Quantum Q359, Millah Mur-

Nectar N334 and Millah Murrah Quentin Q166. The latter bulls add variation and include extra marbling and eye muscle

The stud has been developed from purchases of females, embryos and bulls from Patawalla, Mil-

lah Murrah, Wattletop, KO, Premier and Stoney Point Angus studs

We commenced with 23 females bought at the dispersal of the Patawalla Stud, Rylstone, in 2012. Patawalla's focus was producing females with low birth weight calving

ease, good muscle and high performance

In 2013, the herd was expanded to include Millah Murrah genetics through purchases of cows and embryos. 50 Wattletop stud cows were added in 2014. Fifteen more cows were purchased at the 2 Wattletop dispersals in 2017/18. More recently, we have added females from Premier (2020) and Stoney Point (2022) dispersals

Millah Murrah produces a muscular easy doing type of beef animal and their ideas align with our stud breeding objectives We purchased additional cows and embryos at the 2017 and 2023 Millah Murrah cow sales Our standout recent purchase was Millah Murrah Flower S13 for $90,000 The Tivoli Angus female herd numbers approximately 350 stud

cows

Extreme selection pressure is placed on the herd with Dick Whale from IBMS and Rob Tindall, our inhouse stud consultant, constantly assessing the cattle Rick Porter, our farm manager, also has great skills in identifying stand out females

rah

Sale at Woodstock Rams

THE Central West has a newly established farming venture, Woodstock Rams

Ashley White has been involved in the grazing industry, specifically lamb production, for 35 years.

The 'sheep bloke from DPI' has since been consulting to graziers and ram studs while establishing a small White Suffolk and Poll Dorset breeding flock himself at Panuara.

After the family successfully tendered for the Hermes Poll Dorset flock this year, they have worked to consolidate these high-quality genetics into one operation.

The goal is to offer structurally sound terminal sires backed by objective breeding values on the traits that drive lamb producer profits - low birth weight, growth, early maturing, well-muscled carcass and improved eating quality.

This is an exciting time for the family.

Robyn has retired from TAFE teaching and their daughter Megan also a physiotherapist, has returned from Scotland to be more involved Woodstock Rams will hold an Auctions Plus sale on the first Friday of September (6th September) which will include over 100 rams

The sale will be conducted by JJ Dresser, Woodstock and will be predominantly Poll Dorset rams and some White Suffolks. Their figures are directly comparable in Lambplan Woodstock rams is hosting an open day on Friday 30th

for

Additionally, an UltraWhite flock, a shedding breed from WA, will be on display with Lambplan ASBV's

There will also be a chance to view a number of manual

sheep handlers designed locally by George Carney and engage with Ashley's industry network Ashley, Robyn and Megan are looking forward to contributing genetics for quality meat production and connecting with lamb producers.

Woodstock Rams Open Day is Friday, 30 August – on site at Ridgelands (Ridgelands, 560 Nargong Rd, WOODSTOCK).

On show will be predominantly Poll Dorset rams and a smaller number of White Suffolk and Ultra White rams to view.

AUCTIONSPLUS Woodstock Ram Annual SALE (online): Friday, 6th September, 2024 further details and links: www.jjdresser.com.au

August

presale inspection.

Robyn, Ashley and Megan White will hold an AuctionsPlus sale on Friday, September 6.

New home for Glenfinnan

AFTER 28 years the Glenfinnan Prime Lamb Genetics Stud has a new home and owner

John and Anna Hayes, along with their daughters Lucy and Alice, have made the decision to sell their longstanding White Suffolk Stud, Glenfinnan Prime Lamb Genetics at Young.

It's been a long family involvement, over 46 years of breeding from the earliest trials to today, a stud producing high performing progeny and sort after lambs from current clients for processors and feedlots

The Glenfinnan PLG White Suffolk flock is one of the first White Suffolk flocks in Australia.

The flock was first established in 1978 on the Monaro by Anna's father Jock Litchfield, in conjunction with the University of NSW and led by Professor Ewan Roberts.

Earlier breeding trials had indicated that the Suffolk breed produced fast growing, well-muscled lambs, but these were penalised in the market because of their black fibres

Jock received the first three ewes released from the Hay research station, and for the next few years, in conjunction with a small but growing number of interested producers started to develop the breed.

In 1984 the nucleus flock from the University of NSW was sold to PLG (Prime Lamb Genetics), a group of 35 ram

breeders who ran the flock at Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, and later at Ian Exton's property, Jananee, Coolamon.

This group had a breeding program that accessed the

top genetics, with the aim of breeding modern, profit-making sires for commercial lamb production.

It was key for John and Anna to be able to sell the stud as a whole and maintain the stud genetics for the future of the White Suffolk breed.

The stud is in good hands with new owners New Kayarem Pty Ltd, owners of Bogo Merino's based at Springfield, Cootamundra.

The stud will be run by Stud Manager Austin Grace and future Sires will still be available for existing and new clientele to purchase the Glenfinnan Prime Lamb Genetics at a proposed annual sale day.

John, Anna and their girls Lucy and Alice will be holding their final ram sale at Bullaworrie on Friday, September 13, they warmly invite all old, existing and new clientele to come along meet Austin and his team at Bogo Merino's and help the family farewell the stud.

In 1996, John and Anna purchased the flock from Jock, registering it as a stud, and for the past 28 years have been striving to produce lambs with traits that are economically important for a successful prime lamb production.

The Glenfinnan PLG White Suffolk flock is one of the first White Suffolk flocks in Australia.

Rowallan lambs on top

IMPRESSED with the performance of Rowallan Poll

Dorset lambs, leading lamb feed-lotter Dean and Natalie Harrington will make future moves to prioritise the bloodline for his operation.

So rapt with the quality of his Rowallan-sired lambs, the Victorian producer said he will in future "place a preference" on Rowallan genetics above others.

With a focus on finishing lambs purchased for their Wyunna-based operation, the Harringtons see a wide range of breeds and bloodlines But runs of Rowallan-sired lambs, with their superior growth, shape and yield, have stood out from day one, Mr Harrington said.

"I don't normally promote anyone's product but we had two lots of Rowallan-sired cross Poll Dorset cross lambs and we just found their growth rates were exceptional from the time they got here."

Rowallan Director Matthew Reid puts the stud's outstanding performance on growth and yield down to genetics

"What makes him even more outstanding is his performance data; starting with a moderate birth weight he has a TCP index in the top percent of all terminal sires, his Eye Muscle depth Intramuscular fat tenderness (shearf5) and dress % are all also to the top percent of terminal sires," he said.

"So good infact has his breeding performance been that he is the second top ranked sire on lambplan terminals, of which there is over 2000 sires included, the only animal outranking him is in fact his dad!

"It's genetics like this that give results people like the afore mentioned Harringtons are seeing in the field."

A Rowallan on-property auction will be held in spring, on the 6th of September at Crowther.

The third-generation stud owner and operator said like commercial operations, his sale rams are not fed grain at all throughout their lives "We have been pleased

"Rowallan sale rams comprise Lean Meat Yield data at the extreme end of all terminal breeds," he said.

to see a point of difference for the brand insofar as the progeny of Rowallan rams will excel in different environments."

This year's Rowallan ram sale lineup guarantees exceptionally well grown, structurally sound perfor-

mance rams with top-tier data for buyer's confidence Rowallan uses a number of homegrown sires within the stud each year and this year is no exception. Headlining the sire group this year is an exceptional addition from the renowned

Tasmanian-based Valma stud. 210341 has bred exceptionally well since arriving on the mainland.

"He is structurally faultless, like all Valma sheep, and on this perfect frame carries a stack of muscle," Mr Reid said.

The sale will be interfaced with Auctions Plus New, prospective and interested parties are most welcome to attend. Butt Livestock and Property will once again be the selling agents and they welcome all enquiries, as does Rowallan Principal Matt Reid.

Mt Pleasant bulls on offer Sept 11

THIS year will see Mount Pleasant hold their 11th annual bull sale, again at the Forbes Showgrounds on September 11, 2024.

Inspections from 12 noon, and sale starting at 1pm

The sale will also be on Auctionsplus.

Mount Pleasant Limousins is situated halfway between Forbes and Bedgerabong, along the foot of the Jemalong Mountain Range.

It is owned and operated by Luke and Sherrie Whitty, along with their three young sons Jack, Harry and Tom.

Luke and Sherrie have some exciting young bulls on offer with three apricots and 12 blacks, some with AI sires and others sired by our herd sires Flemington Quick Fix Q19 and the impressive Red Rock Double Sprung M50

Jack, Harry and Tom are growing grown up and are now pursuing their sport and work so Luke and Sherrie haven't shown cattle for the last few years, however they are still enjoying the breeding side of the stud and are continually keeping their eye

out for new genetics to add to their herd.

They have been extremely impressed with their last three purchased sires Flemington Quick Fix Q19, Mandayen Kingmaker R65 and Goldstein Park Showman S6, who sired his first lot of heifer calves this year, and what a

job he did.

Forbes High will be flying their flag at the local shows, with two of their heifers, so make sure you pop into the cattle sections and have a look

The stud was established in 2010 – ANDREW FISHER

Praise for youth expo organisers

MEMBER for Cootamundra

Steph Cooke has praised the organisers behind this year's Herefords Australia National Youth Expo in Cootamundra and has congratulated participants on a successful event.

Held at the Cootamundra Showground between July 11 - 14 the expo was aimed towards giving young people the chance to develop their skills and knowledge of the beef industry, with a special focus on the Hereford breed.

"The 2024 Harris Farm Herefords Australia National Youth Expo was a wonderful showcase of talent and passion from our next agricultural leaders," Ms Cooke said.

"It was so inspiring to see young people from across Australia come together and learn new skills, and at the same time create friendships and build contacts in the industry that will hopefully inspire them to pursue a career in the sector."

Ms Cooke said the Youth Expo allowed local children the opportunity to better their skills as well as take

part in many activities and demonstrations "It was great to catch up with the participants and watch on as they took part in the wide range of activities and demonstrations on offer, all aimed at enhancing practical skills and knowledge, from things like halter mak-

ing, knot tying, feed milling, and nutrient conversions," she said.

"Agriculture is the biggest employer in our electorate and accounts for one in five jobs, so it's reassuring to see that our region's ag future is in very capable hands," Ms Cooke said.

Mt Pleasant's bull sale will be held on September 11

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke with event organisers (from left) Taylah Brunt, Grace Collins, Aleacea Nixon, and Cassie Bush

Breeding tomorrow's beef

THERE'S no doubt that the beef industry is facing some complex challenges as we look to the future - rising costs, greater variability in climate and pressure to lower methane emissions

The easy road for seedstock producers is to ride the wave of breed and coat colour premiums and keep doing what they've always done - present bulls that look amazing, big and fat and shiny, but may not stack up in the paddock when it comes to genetics and longevity.

At Coota Park Blue-E, we have always tried to avoid the easy road, and produce genetics that will create greater impact for our commercial client's bottom line

We are creating genetics that can meet the coming challenges head on.

mature cows as lean as possible during low energy demand periods), reduce feed intake through management (rotational grazing in large cow herds on more marginal country) and improving feed efficiency through genetics

Using genetics to decrease methane production through improved feed efficiency (RFI EPD's) and reduced mature cow size (MW EPD's) is the only permanent, cumulative and low input strategy available to reduce methane emissions, that is effective where it counts - the cow herd.

Coota Park have been testing for feed efficiency for 27 years - the longest of any herd in the world. 20% of the worlds top 1% of sires for RFI (feed efficiency) are from Blue-E.

Multi trait selection for genuine profit driving traits, commercial conditions for the seedstock herd, complete and accurate data recording, judicious crossbreeding to leverage hybrid vigour and a commitment to grass fed bulls with no pampering are the cornerstones of our program. The engine room of profitable commercial beef production is the cow herd.

Fertility is the number one profit driver in any beef breeding enterprise, so should be the number one priority

The cow herd eat 70% of the feed consumed in a breeding system, so any reductions in cow herd intake or improved efficiency also cut production costs

The cow herd is also the source of 70% of cattle methane emissions, so they need

to be the focus of any methane reduction strategies

Methane reduction has no silver bullet solution - it requires a multi-pronged approach

Methane output is directly correlated to feed intake, which is directly correlated

to cow size/weight, as well as feed efficiency.

Our strategy is to moderate mature cow size through genetics and management (running heifers as lean as possible and using minimum joining weights to constrain their growth/running

We also have 27 years of robust data to show that selecting for RFI has had no negative impacts on fertility, fat, or any other production traits

With greater climate variation and sustainability pressure only growing, why wouldn't you want to future proof your beef herd?

Spring bull and ram sales

SPRINGWATERS Poll Dorset and Angus Stud will be holding bull and ram sales on the property at Boorowa this spring

The first is their Angus bull sale where 30 Angus bulls will be sold on Monday, September 2.

The Angus stud has been established primarily on Millah Murrah genetics and has used embryo transfer extensively to access the best genetics available It has also meant that more progeny are from elite donor cows, building a herd of cows from a fantastic base and maintaining a strong consistent type

This year's draft of bulls features some of the top phenotype bloodlines in the industry, featuring a run of bulls by Millah Murrah Rector R53.

His progeny stood out at the recent Millah Murrah cow sale, impressing ABS so much they have listed him for semen sales

"Rector is breeding soft, thick calves with beautiful shape through the shoulders; we couldn't be happier with his first drop of calves

I believe the Paratrooper x Rector cross will be one to watch into the future," states Dane Rowley, Stud Principal. He adds, "The bulls exhibit great weight for age and maturity, with a consistency of type throughout the catalogue that we are aiming for."

The bull sale will be conducted at 1pm, interfaced with Auctions Plus with the bulls available for viewing from 10am

On the 4th of October, the stud will hold its annual on-property ram sale, offering 220 Poll Dorset rams The same breeding philosophy is applied to the Angus herd and the Poll Dorset flock.

All breeding decisions are designed to produce a consistent type, and the introduction of genetics is carefully considered

Springwaters rams are known for their early maturity and carcass qualities, enabling their clients to target sucker markets with fast turnoff

Consistency is a key profit driver for prime lamb producers, and it is something we put a lot of emphasis on in our breeding program.

Our aim is to present a draft of rams that offer the same commercial traits, regardless of whether they are lot 1 or lot 220.

Thickness, softness, type and structure in a more moderate framed package. All bulls and rams we sell come with genomically enhanced breeding values, generations of leading genetics and the doing ease derived from a phenotype program. The sale will be interfaced live with AuctionsPlus at 1 pm, with the rams available for viewing from 10 am

"We are very mindful that our program is built on a consistency of product We identify sires that fit our objectives and we don't bring in excessive amounts of bloodlines."

Springwaters Poll Dorset and Angus Stud will be holding bull and ram sales this spring starting with the bull sale on September 2.

BREEDERS GUIDE RURAL

A need for flexibility

Versatile, flexible, resiliant Merinos

VERSATILITY, flexibility and resilience These are things Aloeburn Poll Merino stud prides itself on.

Owned by Andrew, Jodie and Tom Green, the Boree Creek stud is dedicated to breeding strong, resilient Poll Merinos that are well-suited to their environment, while also producing beautiful, white wool and plenty of lambs. It is crucial to Aloeburn that its flock is flexible and can adapt as necessary. But another thing that is important to the Green family is gaining as much knowledge as possible to improve their flock.

BE FLEXIBLE

The uncertainty in the lamb market last year was a perfect example of the need for flexibility.

Running 8500 Poll Merino ewes, including 800 stud ewes, the Greens were faced with low lamb prices and a wool decline

"It was obvious this time last year that the whole industry was on a slippery slope," Mrs Green said.

"We were blessed that we had good rain in the spring and we had feed But it didn't change that sheep values were greatly reduced." She said these challenges meant they had to adapt to survive.

"We couldn't control the income, but we could control the expenses," she said. "We did some really harsh budget cuts."

But there was one thing they would not give up

"We did not compromise any of the nutrition, welfare or heath requirements of our sheep," she said. "That was not negotiable Sheep cannot perform well if they don't have their nutritional requirements met.

"We've sold more than 3000 Poll Merino wether lambs in the last four months and they've all yielded consistently at 47 per cent, which is a tremendous yield for Merinos. Well-fed lambs are still selling really well."

They also made another massive change

"We have been six-monthly shearing for 10 years, but when things got really tight at the end of 2023, we dropped a shearing. The sheep that were due to be shorn in December were crutched instead," she said.

"We had that flexibility. In May we shore 5000 sheep with 11 months of wool on them The staple strength was still really strong and we got some lovely lengths To

have sheep that can be shorn every six months or pushed out to meet markets, that is really exciting."

Aloeburn's wool has been RWS certified for the past six years.

"Forty-two per cent of the bales from our May shearing received offers before the sale," she said.

GAINING KNOWLEDGE

Research is a passion at Aloeburn, with the stud involved in a methane emissions project in January.

Working with the University of New England and Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA), a total of 504 stud ewes were tested over seven days.

Stud ewes were chosen because they already had recorded DNA, lambing history and comprehensive Australian Sheep Breeding Values (ASBVs). While the results are yet to be released, Mrs Green believes research is important to help improve breeding.

"It's about gaining knowledge and understanding what you are doing," she said.

"For example, we may find sheep that emit less methane are more efficient. You want to produce a more efficient animal, and get them off the place as soon as possible This allows you to optimise management and best utilise resources."

Aloeburn wether lambs are shorn and leave the property at nine months old on average.

OPTIMISING PERFORMANCE

Aloeburn is passionate about breeding animals that can thrive whatever the conditions

"The focus is on productive animals that are well-suited to their environment, and who don't require husbandry practices that set them back With adequate nutrition and optimum welfare, they are able to achieve their full genetic potential.

"Comprehensive data collection identifies strengths and weaknesses in individual sheep and across flock. Using both ASBVs and visual appraisal allows your genetic program to be analysed so that informed decisions can be made to facilitate change."

Close to 40 individual measurements or traits are collected on the Aloeburn sheep in the first 12 months of their life, in addition to DNA testing to record a full genomic profile on each future sire and dam. This allows accurate data to be relied on to make great genetic choices

Mrs Green is unstintingly dedicated to breeding sheep that can adapt and produce lambs and wool.

"Aloeburn sheep have an innate flexibility. That's what our sheep are all about - versatility, flexibility and resilience."

Andrew Green with an Aloeburn ram lamb at the equine veterinary facility at CSU Wagga. The rams had fat and muscle images collected in a CT Scan as part of the Sheep Genetics annual accreditation for FAT and EMD scanning

Anderson 210419 purchased by Aloeburn Poll Merinos in 2022 will have the first progeny available in the 2024 sale team on farm sale on Wednesday, September 25

In 2024 Aloeburn Poll Merinos are celebrating 10 years of tagging at birth and recording birth weights and maternal behaviour of ewes

Felix, about your lambs

THIS year's main lambing at Felix Rams was one of the most challenging, and also one of the most intense ever

With principal Rodney Watt out of action for most of June and July, the entire lambing was left in the capable hands of Isaac Watt

At the peak Isaac weighed and tagged 783 lambs at birth over a seven day period, with more than 1000 lambs in the first 14 days

According to Isaac it was a combination of our success with artificial insemination, and a good ram effect from using teasers back in January.

Being able to manage a tight lambing and still get birthweights and pedigrees is the precursor to good accurate data going into Sheep Genetics

Tight lambings with good sized managements makes the comparison of data significantly more accurate, especially with linkage through AI with sires used in other flocks

Felix Rams focuses on producing efficient and profitable prime lambs.

Collecting good accurate performance data is in our DNA and is embedded as the fundamental approach to the way we breed and select sheep At Felix Rams we select for

quick early growth, and maturity, grown in the paddock, with selection done by six to seven months of age - reflecting the age most lambs are sold.

Our rams aren't great big late maturing rams that will struggle to produce efficient prime lambs at optimal car-

case weights.

When you buy rams, think about the lambs they will produce, not just how big/ good the ram looks.

Having tremendous looking rams at 18 months old doesn't mean they will produce great suckers at 16 to 20 weeks.

ASBVs for postweaning weight have taken all the data, pedigree and environmental information into account to give the best information about growth rate, not whether the ram is a 150 kg on sale day, and the biggest single in the drop

Our rams hit the sweet spot for birthweight asbv of between 0.0 and 0.5.

These rams are still consistently in the top 25% of terminal rams for growth rate and eye muscle

Producers who buy our rams can select on these traits to fit their lamb production system, and at the same time be confident that we are continually making progress on growth rate, eye muscle depth, worm resistance, yield and eating quality.

DNA testing for eating quality and to confirm par-

entage has increased.

We are constantly looking for the best balance of performance, lean meat yield and eating quality.

This year we DNA tested more ram lambs than ever, and all the keeper ewe lambs.

Our DNA tests have increased accuracy as Felix has had more than 30 sires in the MLA Reference/Resource Flock, and because we continue to measure the important production traits on farm.

Felix Rams has also had more than 700 progeny carcase measured for yield and eating quality, adding to the accuracy of our selection for these traits.

Cull ewe lambs are processed by Gundagai Meat Processors so that we can get actual lean meat yield and intramuscular fat measurements

Eating quality is important and we will continue to eliminate sires that are at the below average for eating quality, recognising that despite a lot of testing, real progress is slow and haphazard.

Our selection for rams that perform on pasture, under commercial conditions, will pay the same dividend for you as they do for us, the ability to continue to do even when it's not a great season AND without the necessity of a feeder in the paddock

Once again this year's sale rams are paddock grown and finished.

Felix Rams will offer around 140 Poll Dorset and 65 White Suffolk rams at their 26th annual on-property sale at Greenethorpe on Thursday September 5, 1 pm and interfaced with AuctionsPlus.

Catalogues available at www.felixrams.com.au from approx August 20, email felixrams@gmail.com or call/text Rodney 0417 499 204, Isaac 0437 493 407 or from the selling agents, Allan Gray and Co Cowra 02 6342 2377.

We continue to easily remain being better than the terminal average for the eating quality measures and seek a balanced approach to eating quality, lean meat yield and paddock performance

2024 RAM SALES

Mid Lachlan soil study

Soil's Alive - Exploring the Unique Soil Microbiome of the Mid Lachlan Region

Over the course of eight weeks between May and June, Mid Lachlan Landcare sampled the microbiome of twenty eight unique sites spanning from public (Cemeteries, Travelling Stock Reserves) to private (Cropping and Grazing farms). With each site being sampled an average of four times we ended up with one hundred and fifteen sample plots, each of which played a small yet important role in uncovering the rich and diverse microbiome of the Mid Lachlan region.

It's estimated that each teaspoon of soil contains around one billion microbes representing somewhere between ten and fifty thousand species For comparison a healthy human gut contains around one thousand species, each of which plays a role in how our bodies access and absorb nutrients and process toxins and waste.

Soil microbiome research projects have exploded in number over the past five to ten years with conservation groups, farmers and horticulturists alike, seeing value in accomodating a microbiome-informed approach to their management plans

Soil Microbiome: The entire ecosystem relating to the soil microbiota and how they function in that environment.

This includes the environmental conditions, microbial metabolism and interactions between microbes With this in mind, Mid Lachlan Landcare set about designing a pilot project to map and model our regional microbiome with a view to better understanding where we sit currently - is our collective microbiome healthy - and potentially, where we could get to in the future. The resulting project was funded through the Private Land Conservation Matters project by the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust.

Soil microbiomes are no different, with fungi, bacteria and other microorganisms ensuring nutrients are both available and accessible to plants and that waste material is broken down and recycled safely and efficiently.

We were sampling from what's known as the Rhiosphere - the top 10cm of soil or the space where symbiotic plant:microbe activity is most likely. The microbiometer® is a low cost device that can give you a value for the sites total microbes, fungi:bacteria ratio and fungi percentage within 20 minutes for less than $10 per test strip. The speed, cost and all round convenience of this test is what attracted us to it in the first place, sentiments that were shared by our community when surveyed during our field day/ results sharing event.

We found it best to view our Microbiometer® results in a more narrative rather than absolute or stand-alone context Doing this helps capture the whole microbe ecosystem in a way that allows us to add meaning and context to the numbers.

We developed a five-factor criteria which involved ranking our test sites for Site Diversity, Weathering potential, Water availability, Underlying site Geology and Land use/ management decisions While this study

was not large enough to provide granular insights into how management decisions impact the soil microbiota, we did start to see some patterns emerging & could sort the sites based on their current function.

In addition, we tested soil pH for each sample, recorded collection date, temperature, sampling date and a brief site history where possible

The microbiometer® returns a result for total number of microbes based on the mass of carbon present in the solution tested We see that as a number, most commonly between 200-1200+. An excellent result for agricultural soil is one that's above 600 so when our global average came in at 674, it felt like we were on the right track.

Existing scientific research taught us fungi networks take a long time to develop, proliferate more in highly diverse sites and are most dominant within a one meter radius of tree roots and our experimental data was in alignment with that. Some of our highest results came from the area around established gum trees that had

experienced light grazing. One notable result was from Linfield Travelling Stock reserve near Cowra, a site resting on volcanic rock at an elevation of 360-370 meters and one infrequently grazed We recorded a reading of 1157 total microbes, 2.2:1 ratio of fungi: bacteria and a total fungi percentage of 69% under one of the established eucalyptus trees.

Our trial did not have enough pH diversity for us to make any conclusions about the role of pH and microbe numbers or ratio but microbe numbers were low in sites with known salinity issues

When viewing results from a fungi: Bacteria ratio perspective, we tended to find the sites that were dominated by fungi were more likely to be diverse in their flora, be grazed either lightly or not at all and be in close proximity to trees or deep rooted perennial grasses - especially native red grasses. Fungi dominant sites were typically among our most active sites with microbe counts over 1000. Fungi dominance reduced in line with total microbe numbers.

Finally we found underlying site geology to be a strong predictor of a sites ability to sustain a healthy microbiota with sites based on volcanic rocks appearing more resilient and productive than sites based on geological sediments Our average total microbe count and fungi percentage for volcanic sites was 726 and 42% vs 467 and 34% for sedimentary sites.

On July 19, we presented the results of our trial at a booked-out field day in Cowra and sought feedback from our community of farmers, conservationist and community gardeners by asking what we should do next with this technology/project. The feedback was overwhelmingly supportive with many wanting more information.

Overall we feel this project has successfully delivered greater insight into how the Mid Lachlan region's soils microbiome functions with respect to landscape features and management decisions it but it's clear there's still much, much more we could do

LLS board chair appointed

AGRIBUSINESS owner and manager Tess Herbert has been appointed as the new Local Land Services Board Chair

Mrs Herbert, of Eugowra, brings to the position more than 30 years' combined experience in the Australian red meat industry, in agriculture policy, research and development, and in marketing and government.

A former Central Tablelands LLS Board member, Mrs Herbert holds a Masters in Agribusiness from the University of Melbourne (2020) and has extensive committee experience, including her current work as the Grains Industry Sustainability Framework Governance Council independent chair

"As a former member of the Central Tablelands Local Land Services Board, it's exciting to be appointed the state Board Chair because I recognise the importance of the organisation, and how the Board supports the success of Local Land Services," Ms Herbert said.

"I look forward to leading the strategic direction and supporting the governance of the organisation so it can continue to make valuable, on-the-ground connections with landholders, especially as we move towards a greater focus on how we manage land.

"Local Land Services plays an important role in regional and rural NSW, and through my position in governance, I want to highlight the real value we can offer to rate payers and land managers right

across the state," she said. Tess, with her husband Andrew, run a medium-sized feedlot for about 6,000 head of cattle outside Eugowra, around 330 kilometres from Sydney.

The family also run 2,000 sheep, breed Angus cows and some cropping.

The sixth-generation farming family recently won the 2023 Australian Farmer of the Year award.

Recently Tess has supported the strategic planning of national and local strategies, such as the Meat Industry Strategic Plan, the Australian Lot Feeders Association Strategic Plan, the Animal Health Australian Strategic Plan and the Central Tablelands Local Land Services Strategic Plan

She also is a member of the Australian Lot Feeders Association, Cattle Australia, NSW Farmers Association, Grain Growers, as well as a graduate and member of Australian Institute of Company Directors and a graduate and fellow of the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation.

Mrs Herbert began her role as the Local Land Services Board Chair on July 1, 2024.

Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said she looked forward to working with Ms Herbert.

"She brings a wealth of ex-

perience working with state and federal governments, agriculture industry groups, red meat producers, retailers, customers and non-government organisations," Ms Moriarty said.

"She will be responsible for driving the strategic direction and general policies of LLS, while working closely with the chairs of the 11 local boards

"I congratulate Mrs Herbert on the new role and look forward to working alongside her as she ensures the continued success of Local Land Services and its role in supporting our landholders to protect, support and develop our regions

"I also want to thank our interim Chair Bob Smith for his work and leadership during the recruitment process. " In line with the Local Land Services Act 2013, the term of the Board Chair is set for up to four years.

Local Land Services employs 1041 staff members who are focused on delivering quality customer services to farmers, landholders and the wider community.

New faces elected to board positions

FOLLOWING a significant rise in participation a number of new faces haven been elected as members to the Local Land Service boards in the Central West, Riverina and Central Tablelands.

The new board members will be tasked to determine local delivery priorities for important services including pest control, land protection and assistance for productive land use.

The new faces on the Riverina board are Elizabeth Stott (Gogeldrie), Robert Matthews (Hay) and Alison Hamilton (Gregadoo).

The Central West's new board members are Rae Craft (Elong Elong), Nina Hooper (Forbes) and Elise Stokes (Forbes).

Benjamin Watts (Molong), Anna Shaw (Cargo) and James Dellow (Orange) have been appointed to the Central Tablelands board.

Across the state 16 women have been elected to 11 boards which is a 100% increase over 2020, demonstrating that the plan by the NSW Government to diversify participation has been successful.

In total, 116 candidates

contested the 11 local board elections Minister for Agriculture

Tara Moriarty described the the surge in voting and the significant increase in woman nominating as wins for local communities

"

The 11 Local Land Services boards play an important role on the frontline of agriculture across NSW and it's important that we have attracted a broad spectrum of the community to nominate, vote and participate in that work," Ms Moriarty said.

The elected members join appointed members on the

boards and play a crucial role identifying priorities and working within their communities to help shape plans, programs and services.

The local boards will prioritise and monitor services including:

■ providing best practice advice to manage pest animals and pest control activities

■ managing and improving natural resources on-farm for a healthy environment

■ a network of district veterinarians who offer advice and services on biosecurity

Elizabeth Stott of Gregadoo, one of the three new faces on the Riverina LLS Board.

Tess and Andrew Herbert at Beef Week earlier this year Photo Gundamain Pastoral Co

Industry loses a leader

A farmer who others followed

BY CARA KEMP

COLIN Robert Thompson, a highly respected Cowra dairy farmer at Silvermere Holsteins, passed away peacefully on June 21 at Wagga Wagga Base Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

He was 63 years of age.

Colin and his wife Erina ran an elite Total Mixed Ration (TMR) dairy farm in Cowra, where they milked around 300-350 cows in a free stall and averaged around 45L per cow per day

Eric Danzi, CEO of dairy industry group eastAUSmilk, shared his words on Colin's passing, saying, "Colin was widely regarded as being one of the top handful of dairy farmers in Australia and was a real gentleman with integrity and a desire to help others"

"Colin was a real leader in the industry and was passionate about dairy farming."

"He was obsessive about doing everything absolutely spot on and this obsession resulted in elite results that many other farmers watched and followed," Mr Danzi said.

Mr Danzi emphasised Colin's knowledge and expere-

ince, saying that is would be "of great interest to dairy farmers in Queensland".

"I knew that dairy farmers in Queensland, especially TMR farmers, could learn a lot from Colin."

"As a result, in early 2020, I asked Colin to give presentations throughout Queensland about his farm and journey as a dairy farmer," he said.

Mr Danzi revealed that Colin's farming story had impressed a lot of farmers, and that he "really blew some away " with the possibilities others could achieve.

"It was clearly not realistic or practical for most farmers to copy everything Colin did," Mr Danzi said.

"Colin was not egotistical re his approach, but rather trying to help farmers find a few things of relevance to their farm to improve their operation."

"I know a number of farmers made changes as a result of Colin's grand tour, from small changes like putting in more water troughs near feed pads to spending a lot of money in new concrete silage pits," he said.

Mr Danzi noted Colin's 'obsession' with cowra hav-

ing an abundance of clean water to drink at all times, saying that anytime he saw anything but clean water for cows he would ask Mr Danzi, "would you drink it?".

"I would always answer no, and he would say well neither will cows," Mr Danzi said.

"I got the message, Colin." Thanking Colin for his

lead in the dairy industry, Mr Danzi said, "thanks Colin for everything you did to lead the dairy industry and be a farmer that others followed with your farming practices".

"And to Erina and your family," Mr Danzi said. "My thoughts are with you."

Event to empower women in farming

ON OCTOBER 30, Harden will host an event to provide women in agriculture with the networking and upskilling opportunities they need to advance their professional development in the sector

The events aims to offer the tools and networks necessary to fast track their professional growth

Many women seek entrepreneurial ways to market and sell their fam outputs or value added products but may not have the support or networks to do so successfully.

The 'Empowering Women in Farming Businesses' programme helps women improve their business, de-

cision making skills, and expand their support networks

NSW Farmers chief executive officer, Annabel Johnson, stated that the series of in person events already began in April and welcomed all women in the state's agricultural industry.

"This is a special opportunity to recognise the leader-

ship capabilities of women in agriculture," Ms Johnson said.

"By establishing formal networking and learning programs across our state, these sessions aim to upskill and uplift the women leeading our industry foreword."

"Building connections and capabilities is essential, and I

look forward to seeing our female farmers come together at these events over the coming months," she said.

Tamworth cattle farmer and NSW Farmers Women in Business Network project officer, Karen Weller, emphasised the importance of these events

"Women are estimated

to provide one third of on farm income, often through the management of the farm business itself, but many women in the sector are not specifically trained in these skills," Ms Weller said. To take part in the event go to https://form.jotform. com/holleyt/ewfb-rsvp – CARA KEMP

COWRA REGIONAL LIVESTOCK SELLING CENTRE

Prime lamb and Sheep Sale every Wednesday 11:30am.

• Selling Agents • Allan Gray & Co • Normal C. Bellamy

• JJ Dresser & Co • James P Keady • Elders – Cowra

• Kevin Miller Whitty & Co • Landmark Cowra

The late Colin Thompson (right) at his Cowra dairy. File image.

Ignoring safety is not worth cost

SAFEWORK NSW is calling on farms to enhance safety measures following a recent case where a man was injured and an agricultural business fined for failing to meet workplace safety obligations

Integrated Agricultural Developments Pty Ltd, a vineyard operator in the Central Tablelands, has been fined a total of $195,000 plus legal costs after a 42-year-old labour hire farmhand suffered severe injuries.

The worker fractured his pelvis and back when the quad bike he was riding rolled during a backburn near Orange in June 2021.

The company was found guilty of two offences: failing to ensure safety at the workplace and not consulting with the labour hirer about the work and associat-

ed risks

Trent Curtin, Head of SafeWork NSW, emphasised the seriousness of these issues, saying "not enforcing workplace safety can result in severe consequences, including loss of life".

"It is crucial to review and improve your farm's safety measures to ensure a safe working environment."

The business, convicted on June 27, 2024, failed to enforce helmet use on quad bikes and did not fit an operator protective device to the bike.

The company has 28 days from the conviction date to appeal the decision

Quad bikes, along with tractors, side-by-side vehicles, and other machinery, are involved in most farm-related fatalities

Since 2001, quad bike in-

cidents have caused over 56 deaths in NSW.

"Where SafeWork Inspectors come across workers operating side-by-side vehicles without seatbelts or quad bikes without helmets and protective devices, we will take a zero-tolerance approach and issue notices as needed," Mr Curtin said.

SafeWork NSW advises farmers to strictly follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding load limits and balancing to prevent accidents.

Heavy or unstable loads, such as chemical tanks, can affect braking and stability, increasing the risk of rollovers

To assist farmers, SafeWork NSW offers a free advisory service and a $1000 safety rebate for farm improvements

Editor

Andrew Fisher 0429 421 044 andrew.fisher@midwestmedia.com.au

Advertising

Courtney Gambrill 0448 248 080 courtney.gambrill@midwestmedia.com.au

3G 'considered essential'

THE Senate Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee is holding a public hearing into the shutdown of the 3G mobile phone network

As part of the hearing National Farmers Federation Deputy CEO Charlie Thomas addressed the hearing on Tuesday July 23, saying the network had been a steadfast lifeline for those in regional and rural areas.

"Since it's introduction in 2006, the 3G Network has been a steadfast lifeline for many consumers across the country, but arguably for none more so than those living in regional, rural and

remote Australia," Mr Thomas said.

"The livelihoods of Australian farming families are intrinsically tied to accessible, reliable, affordable, resilient and quality connectivity."

According to Mr Thomas reliable mobile connectivity underpins modern agriculture and enables efficient management of farming as well as market access and daily business operations

"For many with no bricks and mortar alternative down the road, it also provides essential access to health care, emergency services, education, social interaction

and wellbeing outcomes," he said.

"Many in the bush still consider the 3G network an essential component of reliable connectivity, a component which triggers a sigh of relief when it pops up on their phone during an emergency or natural disaster. The final alternative to no signal at all."

Mr Thomas acknowledged the opportunity the shutdown presented to improve connectivity across the country, he said farmers and communities are 'understandably' apprehensive about what a world without the 3G network means for them.

"An anxiety made worse by anecdotal reports of degrading and changing mobile service in some areas and a general lack of confidence in existing complaint processes," he said.

"The communities are

forces to trust providers with their ability to communicate, to conduct business and to access essential and emergency services."

Mr Thomas told the Inquiry that existing primary connectivity barriers it will be these communities that will predominantly suffer 'any adverse consequences ' from the transition.

"The NFF has critical expectations of providers to ensure a seamless transition and protect the fundamental needs or regional, rural and remote communities," he said.

Mr Thomas said the expectations include that con-

nectivity must be equivalent or improved from the current standard, providers must prioritise accountability and transparency through the transition, proactive, robust and considered efforts are made to inform consumers and avoid any adverse consequences, and post network shutdown issues are addressed quickly and effectively.

"To achieve that, we expect communication efforts and services beyond business as usual. As it stands today, we are not satisfied that each of our requirements for this transition have been met," he told the inquiry.

Future rural leaders named at NSW Farmers conference

FIVE future rural leaders have been named as the successful recipients of the NSW Farmers Tertiary Scholarships at its Annual Conference this week

Each year, NSW Farmers awards five tertiary scholarships to members or their children to support their university or vocational qualification in a field relevant to

regional and rural Australia. The recipients hailed from the Riverina, the North West and Central West, and were all committed to improving farming futures Scholarship recipient and Rural Science student Jennifer Corderoy from Narromine said the scholarships would enable this year's recipients to open doors and unlock

opportunities within their careers.

"Receiving a scholarship from NSW Farmers has provided me with the necessary funds to do further work experience while I study, applying my textbooks to the field and learning much more on-the-job," Ms Corderoy said.

"Importantly, this scholar-

ship reflects the community unique to our industry, in which one generation gives a 'leg up ' to the next.

"By studying Rural Science, I am being equipped to address farming challenges, and hope that the contributions of my career to our industry will be a return on the investment of NSW Farmers in me."

NSW Farmers Rural Affairs Committee Chair Deb Charlton said the scholarships had a proven track record of helping the next generation find their passion in agriculture and rural communities, with this year's cohort already showing exceptional potential in their chosen field.

■ George Hatty, MatongE.L. O'Brien Scholarship

■ Jennifer Corderoy Narromine - John White Memorial Scholarship

■ Ellie Peart, Gulargambone

- Alan Chapman Memorial Scholarship

■ Andrew Newton, GurleyGraham Blatch Memorial Goobang Scholarship

■ Ann Porter, Forbes River - Paul Lockyer Memorial Scholarship.

Mulligrubbers are special

MULYAN Public School in Cowra has long been regarded as a noteworthy school.

Here's a guide to understanding what makes it so special to become apart of the mulligrubber family:

Skilled Staff

Mulyan Public School provides high quality learning programs that are targeted to the needs of our students. Through the consistent tracking and monitoring of student data our teachers know our students and how they learn and differentiate teaching to suit the variety of learning needs.

We have a full time Assistant Principal Curriculum and Instruction, who supports our teachers in ensuring that our classroom practices and strategies are backed by current educational research and evidence and all learning is delivered in a well-resourced environment. Teachers at Mulyan Public School engage in regular professional development courses to ensure they are continually updating and improving their skills and

knowledge

Relationships

Our staff are professional, experienced, enthusiastic and dedicated to our school and students. We pride ourselves on building strong valued relationships with our students and ensure that well-being is at the forefront

of all that we do

Our Assistant Principal Well-being is passionate about advocating for student and staff well-being and implements a variety of initiatives to ensure every student at Mulyan Public School feels valued, understood and safe

We value our relationships

with parents and families and provide regular opportunities for our community to come into our school and be part of events, learning, assemblies and our school P&C, who host a range of social activities throughout the year Our teachers pride ourselves on knowing each and every student and taking time to build relationships and we would love to see any new and old families visit us at anytime

Extension Opportunities

We provide many opportunities for our students to engage in whole school events and activities, particularly our peer support program, to allow our older students to develop leadership and mentoring skills.

Whole school events also create a sense of unity and collaboration and that special feeling of being a 'mulligrubber'. Mulyan Public School offers opportunites for students with high potential and gifted skills, through the Aurora College Opportunity Class.

Aboriginal Perspectives

We have a proud focus on indigenous education and

embed Aboriginal perspectives into every classroom and every lesson.

We have a permanent Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer who organises and leads many cultural events throughout the year We have our very own Aboriginal Dance Group who perform for other schools and local community events We also have a cultural space within our playground for all students to enjoy

Early Learning Priority

Class sizes at Mulyan are always kept as low as possible, particularly in Kindergarten and the early years. We have separate playgrounds for infants and primary to allow students to engage appropriately with their peers and develop important social skills We value the importance of early learning and prioritise language skills, emotional resilience, social skills, independence and confidence

Vast & Enticing Playground

Mulyan Public School has a rich history of sporting success and we continue to achieve this through a com-

prehensive sporting program and strong participation in many PSSA sporting events

Our beautiful grounds are the perfect place for our sporty students to practice and play We have 3 and a half hectares of vibrant and enticing grounds, which are fully secured.

These grounds provide an amazing amount of space for students to explore and engage They include two large sporting ovals, football field, athletics track, shot put cage, synthetic turf basketball/ netball court, funky monkey bars, junior play equipment, large spider climbing frame, handballs courts, cultural garden and indigenous dance/yarning circle

Student Support

Our Learning and Support Co-ordinator ensures every student who requires additional learning needs has access to tailored programs This may be individual, small group programs or differentiated learning within their classroom. We have 3 support classes for students with additional needs as well as an Assistant Principal in Support.

MULYAN PUBLIC SCHOOL

Developing young people of character

RED Bend Catholic College at Forbes is a co-educational day and boarding school, with an emphasis on developing young people of character, integrity and compassion.

The College promotes learning that is relevant, purposeful and engaging, connecting learning with real-world experiences

They aspire for every student to have success in their learning.

Some of their recent activities and achievements include:

■ Students were selected as representatives in the NSW CCC team that competed in Newcastle against CIS and CHS NSW sides.The students from Red Bend selected were Ellie Parker, Henry Rice, Zanda Johnstone, Archie Daley and Jett Johnstone Special mention to Archie Daley, who was named in the NSW Opens Boy's All Schools side.

■ Indigenous students celebrating NAIDOC week with St Patrick's Parish School,Trundle

■ Year 10 students participated in Careers Week, which involved industry talks, visiting presentations, panels of local business people, mock interviews and careers-based activities.

■ The College production of Legally Blonde showcased the amazing talents of their students.

Red Bend students preparing food during Careers Week

RED BEND CATHOLIC COLLEGE

Students rehearing for the College production of Legally Blonde which showcased the amazing talents of the students

Red Bend students taking part in NAIDOC Week

Educating Cowra kids since 1858

COWRA Public School was the first public school to be established in Cowra and has been educating children since 1858.

The school's motto is "Knowledge is Power" and the emphasis is on giving every child, every opportunity, every day, to support them in reaching their full potential as individuals

Cowra Public School provides comprehensive academic and student wellbeing programs, delivered by experienced and dedicated staff.

A wide range of extra-curricular opportunities in sport, technology, public speaking, band, leadership, and the creative arts enable students to pursue their individual interests, through a variety of different learning experiences

All students take part in weekly Wiradyuri language

and culture lessons, and the school has strong partnerships with the Cowra Local AECG and community Elders.

Cowra Public School is supported by an active P and C, as well as other school and community organisations including Learn 2 Communicate, Aurora College, Cowra High School, Cowra Riding for the Disabled, Operation Art, Food Bank and Cowra Information and Neighbourhood Centre

These services work in collaboration with the school to enhance outcomes for all students and their families.

For enrolment enquiries, please go to our school website and click on the 'enrolment' tab, contact us on 63 422400, or call in to our administration office in Vaux Street

We would love to show you around our beautiful school!

WEDNESDAY 7th August 12:00pm- 3:10pm ALL

COWRA PUBLIC SCHOOL

Cowra Public students enjoying rewards for their positive behaviour.

Cowra Public students supporting their fellow students on a sports day.

Cowra Public students taking part in an activity

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6.00 Rage Charts 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Unforgotten. 1.15 Vera 2.45 Sister Boniface Mysteries. 3.35 The Greek Islands With Julia Bradbury. 4.00 Spicks And Specks. Final. 4.30 Freeman. 5.30 Landline. 6.00 Stuff The British Stole. 6.30 I Was Actually There. 7.00 ABC News 7.30 Sister Boniface Mysteries. 8.15

Railways. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 5.00 Bargain Hunt 6.00 Heathrow. 6.30 The Highland Vet. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs 6.00 Morning Programs 3.00 NDRC Top Doorslammer H’lights. 4.00 BarrettJackson: Revved Up 5.00 Counting Cars 5.30 Storage Wars 6.00 Pawn Stars 7.00 Storage Wars 7.30 MOVIE: Sister Act 2: Back In The Habit (1993) 9.50 MOVIE:

1.00

2.00

1.30

2.30

Big Shrimpin’. 5.00 Storage Wars: NY 6.00 Border Security: Int 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: Transporter 3. (2008) 10.40 Late Programs.

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A misunderstanding tests the temperament of the sometimes headstrong Aries. But instead of blowing your top, take time for a pleasant diversion while things cool down.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) A workplace problem could make the divine Bovine see red But talk it out before you consider walking out. Some surprising facts emerge that can change your earlier focus.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) You face a choice between ignoring your uneasy feelings about your relationship with a special person and demanding explanations. A close friend offers wise counsel.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A change you’d been hoping for carries an unexpected complication. Stay the course, and things will work themselves out. Be sure to make time for family and friends.

6.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024 Day 8: Early morning. 7.00 Today In Paris 11.00 9News Morning Weekend. 12.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024: Encore. 3.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 24 Canterbury Bulldogs v Canberra Raiders. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024 Day 9: Night. 10.30 Olympic Games

6.00 Get Clever. 7.00 Get Arty 8.00 It’s Academic 9.00 Kitty Is Not A Cat. 10.00 Dream Academy. 10.45 Britain’s Got Talent 12.50 Home And Away 3.30 To Be Advised. 5.30 Puppy School. 6.30 Bondi Vet. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. 10.30 Law

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Aspects favor spending time with loved ones On the job, new ideas are generally welcomed, but some demands for change could cause problems. Be ready to defend your choices.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Good news: A workplace problem is close to being resolved with results that should please everyone. Take time off to indulge in your love of fun and games.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Most of the time, you are the most unflappable person around But be ready to be thrown offbalance in the nicest way when Cupid takes aim in your direction.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) It’s not often that someone tries to “sting” the sharp-witted Scorpion, but it can happen. Continue to be skeptical about anything that seems too good to be true.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Your strong sense of self-esteem helps you serve as a role model for someone who needs personal reassurances. Meanwhile, your efforts pay off in an unexpected way

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Someone close considers revealing a painful secret. Withhold any judgment. Instead, open your generous heart, and offer dollops of your love and understanding.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Your talents as a peacemaker are called upon once more as an old problem reemerges with new complications. Move cautiously in order to avoid falling into hidden traps.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) The artistic side of yourself is enhanced with the reception given to your new project. Use this success as encouragement toward fulfilling your larger goals.

ACROSS

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD

1 Who was the US singer and film actor, Dean (6)

7 Name a Banjo Paterson classic, the Man from (8)

8 What are boxing matches split into (6)

9 Name the wife of William Shakespeare, Anne (8)

10 Which British coin had a value of 21 shillings (6)

11 Name a palm, having fan-shaped leaves (8)

14 What are false teeth called (8)

18 Name another term for pansies (6)

19 What is the body of an aircraft (8)

21 What is a flock of geese called (6)

22 Name a snake of the boa family (8)

23 What are assemblies of ecclesiastics (6)

DOWN

1 Name a goldenflowered plant (8)

2 What do we call one who rents (6)

3 Name the birthplace of Omar Khayyam (8)

4 What is the unit of electric potential (4)

5 To be on fire, is to be what (6)

6 One who wags school is known as a what (6)

12 Which Nevada city is known for its gambling casinos (3,5)

13 Who devised the strategy of the Wooden Horse of Troy (8)

15 Name an alternative term for a horse (6)

16 Which type of warfare was prevalent in the Somme in World War One (6)

E-QUATIONS

Letters A to Z have a number

17 What was the surname of Daniel, “Mad Dog” (6)

20 Name a former unit of currency in India (4)

Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally Some letters are used more than once.

1 URTICANT

(a) Smooth mannered (b) Stinging (c) Swampy

2 VAGARY

(a) A lack of precision (b) A tramp (c) A freakish prank

BIYWORD

Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.

CLUES: Awful (3)

Commonplace (5) Free (3) Limited (abb) (3) Mansion (5) Relaxed (5)

Revolutionary zealot (7) Card game (7) Showed extreme fondness (5) WWII life jacket: West (3)

Central West

Honda fights for a place in new market

By CHRIS RILREY, Marque Motoring

THE Honda CR-V e:HEV isn’t the Japanese company’s first petrol-electric hybrid.

It’s the latest in a long line of hybrids that started with the cutting-edge, two-seat Insight way back in 2001.

But the CR-V e:HEV (it’s a mouthful) has a big role to play as Honda fights to find a place in the new order of things that started with the move to SUVs, then the swing to electric vehicles and finally the arrival of the Chinese in full force

You might say it’s time to shape up or ship out.

STYLING

CR-V starts from $44,700 driveaway for the five-seat, twowheel drive 1.5-litre VTi X+ with an auto VTi X7 is basically the same model with seven seats and is priced from $46,800

There’s six colours and seven grades from which to choose: VTi X+, VTi X7, VTi L, VTi L7, VTI L AWD, VTi LX AWD and e:HEV RS.

All but the hybrid are powered by the same 1.5-litre four cylinder turbo

Only VTI L and VTI LX are available with all-wheel drive (VTI L with all-wheel drive is $2500 more)

Standard kit is generous, with cloth trim and two-zone climate air, auto lights and wipers, an auto-dimming rear view mirror, keyless entry and start, electric parking brake, power adjust driver seat, walk-away door locking, front and rear parking sensors, reverse camera with dynamic guides plus a handsfree power tailgate

RS ups the ante with a sports

body kit along with some sporty touches inside, including alloy pedals, black headliner, leather accents and red stitching for the seats, steering wheel and transmission shift.

It also comes with a sunroof, rear fog lights, adaptive high beam and active cornering lights – all of them LED

Importantly as you will soon discover it’s also the only model that gets sport drive mode along with an enhanced engine note CR-V comes with a 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty plus 5-year roadside assistance

Service intervals are 12 months or 10,000km, with the first five visits capped at $199

Variants with built-in navigation receive five years of complimentary over the air map updates.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS

The hybrid combines two electric motors with a larger, 2.0-litre direct injection Atkinson style four-cylinder engine

The electric motors are positioned side-by-side rather than in-line with the crankshaft as they were previously

The all-new E-CVT motor spins at 14,500 rpm and produces 135kW peak power and

335Nm of torque

The generator motor, which spins at 17,000 rpm, puts out 120kW and is dedicated to charging the battery pack.

Combined system output is 152kW.

The 1.5-litre turbo makes 140kW and 240Nm in comparison.

SAFETY

New CR-V is still to be rated by ANCAP for safety.

An improved Honda Sensing safety system features a total of 11 airbags, with a new front camera and radar system.

Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure has been updated to distribute crash energy more evenly throughout the front, side, and rear of the vehicle

There’s also forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane departure and lane keep assist, traffic jam assist, road departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control, low-speed braking control, traffic sign recognition and high beam support.

VTi-L and above add blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert with e:HEV RS also getting LED active corner-

AT A GLANCE

MODEL RANGE:

HONDA CR-V VTI X+: $44,700

HONDA CR-V VTI L: $48,800

HONDA CR-V TI X7: $46,800

HONDA CR-V TI L7: $53,000

HONDA CR-V VTI L: AWD $51,300

HONDA CR-V LX: AWD $57,000

HONDA CR-V E:HEV RS $59,900

NOTE: These prices are drive-away

ing lights and adaptive driving beam.

However, there’s no head-up display or 360-degree camera.

DRIVING

CR-V as we recall originally stood for Civic Recreational Vehicle, but this has now morphed into Comfortable Runabout Vehicle

No matter because it is reasonably comfortable as well as roomy inside, and comes with a new-found upmarket feel.

With reach and height adjustment for the steering wheel and plenty of power adjustment options for the driver’s seat, finding the right driving position is easy

The front seats are also heated.

With 15mm more legroom, the rear seats also slide 190mm backwards or forwards, in case you need more room.

And they recline, with 16 positions and an additional 10.5 degrees so passengers can kick back on longer trips.

Boot space is a generous 581 litres but the floor hides a tyre repair kit.

The objective was reportedly to achieve the ultimate all-rounder, encompassing the same off-road performance as a

its rural-induced asthma, but of course it must be selected each and every time you start the vehicle

It brings the CR-V to life, ramping up the revs, enhancing throttle response and giving the vehicle a much sportier feel.

In comparison, performance in Economy mode is woeful and we gave it away within minutes.

Normal as the name suggests is fine for most situations.

In addition, with Sport mode activated Active Sound Control boosts the engine note

cross country vehicle, the same level of comfort as a passenger car and even the same level of appeal for sports car lovers.

Dream on

Three drive modes are available, selected via a console mounted switch: Economy, Normal and Sport in the RS.

The new set up also includes new high and low-speed lockup ratios for direct engine drive on the highway and in the city

A new “B” transmission setting enables stronger regenerative and engine braking.

This can also be controlled using the supplied steering wheel paddles.

On paper it all sounds fabulous and it is until you get the opportunity to stretch the CRV’s hybrid legs.

While it’s reasonably quick off the mark thanks to the instant kick from the electric motor, the CR-V quickly runs out of puff

This becomes especially evident when it comes to overtaking and climbing long, steep hills where the hybrid powertrain starts to wail like a banshee as it attempts to deliver the goods.

At this point, the provision of Sport mode makes a real difference and is the only cure for

Steering is light and the ride quality is generally pretty good, although cabin noise can be intrusive on coarse bitumen as can be the ride can become jarring.

The 12-speaker Bose sound system is excellent.

Too bad Android Auto requires a cable and is not wireless like CarPlay

Rated at 5.5L/100km, we were getting 6.3L after 740km of mixed driving, much of it out west.

Fortunately, the 57-litre tank is happy to take standard 91 RON petrol.

SUMMING UP

We just can’t see how Honda’s price it up policy has legs.

While the CR-V hybrid is a practical, polished offering, petrol-only versions represent better value for money

What’s more, although CR-V is advertised as “Available in Hybrid with 5 and 7-seat options, the hybrid is in fact available only in expensive, top of the line RS form and not with seven seats. It misses out on all-wheel drive as well.

It’s supposed to be a family vehicle

Then there’s the competition to consider

■ NEW SAFETY SYSTEM:

An improved Honda Sensing safety system features a total of 11 airbags, with a new front camera and radar system.

50b

Classifieds

Margaret "Joan" Reynolds (née Kibbler)

15/4/1930 - 25/7/2024

Loving wife of Des Reynolds (Dec)

Mother and mother-in-law to Peter (Dec) and Joanne, John, Anne-Louise and Ian.

Special grandma to Brendan, Aimee, Andrew and Jefferson, Katie; Christopher, James and Adam and their partners

Very special great grandma to Harry Ollie

Hugo, Camilla and Archer

Only daughter of Harry and Dolly Kibbler (Both Dec)

Sibling to Bernie and Elsa (Both Dec), Don and Marie (Both Dec), Ted and Margaret (Both Dec), Garry and Gloria Kibbler

Special aunt to many nieces and nephews. 94 years

Rest in peace mum Joan's family and friends are respectfully invited to attend her funeral to be held in St John's Anglican Church, Cowra commencing at 11:00am today, Thursday 1st August 2024.

Thence for interment in the Cowra Lawn Cemetery

In memory of a very special man

Caring son and brother, loving husband, wonderful father and grandfather.

Bill Battye 15th October 1933 - 24th July 1996

“The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother” ...and he did. Thank you Dad.

In memory of Wilma Battye 3rd March 1935 – 28th April 2024.

Devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother and Little Nan is, was, always a warm heart, clever mind and inspiring spirit

We love you and we miss you both so much Your girls and our families

HOURS 9AM - 5PM MONDAY - FRIDAY

PESTICIDE USE NOTICE

Forestry Corporation of NSW wishes to advise that the following pesticide use, to be applied aerially and by ground-based methods, is proposed for prescribed public places

Site specific tank mixes may contain a selection of the following active ingredients; Sulfometuron-methyl, Clopyralid, Hexazinone, Oxyfluorfen & Haloxyfop. These will be used for the control of vegetation in our plantation establishment operations, in the Canobolas, Blenheim, Dog Rocks, Essington, Glenwood Gurnang, Isabella Jenolan, Jeremy Kinross, Mount David, Mullion Creek Pennsylvania, Sunny Corner Vittoria & Vulcan State Forests between August 12th and November 30th, 2024

Areas undergoing treatment will be clearly signposted and all directions regarding entry should be followed

For further information regarding this notice, contact the Bathurst Office of the Forestry Corporation of NSW (02) 6330 1000

In Memoriam

Public Notices

Deaths & Funerals

Salisbury wins vets event

Strong winds impact final scores

BY LESTER BLACK

THE Cowra Golf Club on the 25 July 2024 conducted the Veteran's nine hole event in conjunction with the Pro Comp event over 18 holes, the strong field of competitors had to face the challenge of strong winds at times which no doubt impacted on scores with only one player beating their handicap

The Veteran's nine hole stableford event played on holes 10 to 18 at Cowra with 38 entrants, was closely contested with four players finishing with 17 points and the order of merit on a countback placing Ray Salisbury first, followed by Ray Kelly, David Spolding, and Colin

Ridding, they were followed five players just one point in arrears.

There were 10 prize winners who are listed, with their stableford scores and the Veteran's 18 hole handicap they played off: 17 Ray Salisbury (16). 17 Ray Kelly (23) 17 David Spolding (18) 17 Colin Ridding (22). 16 Alan Luff (29). 16 Elwyn Ward (22). 16 Adrian Single (34). 16 Ron Newham (34). 16 Ken Harcombe (12) 15 John Van Huizen (15)*.

*On a count back from other players with 15 points

These prize winners will have their Veterans 18 hole handicap reduced by three, the other entrants will have their handicap increased by one POINTSCORE

One more at home for rugby side

RUGBY UNION

RETURNING to a frosty Orange over the weekend, the Cowra Eagles have been dealt a reception by the Emus to match the weather

Suffering a 46-19 loss, Eagles captain Cooper Sullivan said "It was a rough one We were right in the fight. It was one of those days where it was a tough game of football, pretty wet and muddy conditions."

Struggling to maintain momentum into the second half, Sullivan told The Cowra Guardian he's still happy with the effort made by the team

"The score doesn't really represent the game in my eyes It did blow out in the second half but we had a few key players coming off the field The real take away is that the boys didn't put their head down and give up. It's never nice to get beaten, but it's good to know you didn't give in."

With two tries from Damian Michael, as well as a third (unaccredited) and conversions by Jace Peters, the Eagles made a solid showing against the Emus but unfortunately couldn't match their tenacity

"We just had a couple of lulls where if we had scored or put in it'd change the momentum, we'd possibly look at a different score line Like most things in life you can't really put it down to one thing."

With the final home game next week in Cowra, Sullivan urged locals to come and support the team, which will also be Jace Peters' final game with the side before returning home.

"Our Canadian superstar Jace had a cracking performance, along with Joe Sullivan - Jace always has a dig but he leaves Sunday next week, with Dubbo being his last game so we'll be farewelling our Canadian brother that game."

"The last home game, I'd encourage everyone to come along and support us, we've got a great young team coming up next season, " Sullivan said.

In other Blowes Cup results last weekend Orange City were big winners over Forbes 6112, Bulldogs 29 defeated Dubbo 14.

Points are allocated based entrants scores for events played for the calendar year to the end of November 2024. The top 10 cumulative Scores

for the year to date, ie to the 25 July 2024, are:

1. Nicky Basson 45 points

2. Lester Black 42. 3. David Spolding 40. 4. John Holmes

39. 5. Alan Luff 38. 6. Mark Rush 38 7. Wayne Rodwell

38. 8. John Jensen 36. 9. Bruce Amos 36. 10. Ray Kelly 35. The Cowra Golf Club's Golf Professional, Tom Perfect's 18 hole stableford event, which is open to all ages, is run conjointly with the Veteran events, with all players using their Golflink handicaps.

Special congratulations go to Jarrod Wood for his 38 stableford points, being the only player to beat their handicap in the days events and winning the Pro Comp event.

Our reigning club champion Peter Kirwan again demonstrated his skills with his 36 points as runner up, and winning both the nearest the pins, with two great tee shots Lady golfer Casey Thompson produced

Tennis a hit with seniors

ON JUNE, 29 and 30, Cowra Tennis Club held the 30th Annual Seniors Tennis Tournament with 55 to 60 competitors from Cowra, Bathurst, Orange, Canberra, Grenfell and Sydney and Ulladulla.

Results for the Saturday Round Robin events were:-

■ Men Pool 1 -1st Rod Clarkin 2nd David O'Keefe

■ Ladies Pool 1- 1st Rebecca O'Dea 2nd Joanne Adams

■ Men Pool 2 - 1stTony Ross 2nd Glenn McInerney

■ Ladies Pool 2 - 1st Sue Vaughan 2nd Chrissie Kjoller

■ Men Pool 3 - 1st Andy Cannon 2nd Greg Hunt Sunday results:-

■ Mens Doubles Pool 1 - 1st Rod Clarkin & David O'Keefe 2nd David Scotney & Wayne Stanton

■ Mens Doubles Pool 2 - 1st Robert Mack & Brian Dwyer 2nd John Chapman & Glenn McInerney

■ Ladies Doubles Pool 1 - 1st Allyson Schumacher & SarahTree 2nd Pauline Downes & Bev Roberts

■ Ladies Doubles Pool 2 - 1st Janet Davenport & Lyndy Crossley 2nd Betty Smith & Daphney Kennedy

■ Mixed Doubles Pool 1 - Rod Schumacher & Allyson Schumacher 2nd John Bullock & Rebecca O'Dea

■ Mixed Doubles Pool 2 - 1st Val Gavin & John Chapman 2nd Cindy Fuhlbohm & Terry Everson

an impressive score to be placed third.

The prize winners were: 1st Jarrod Wood 38. 2nd Peter Kirwan 36. 3rd Casey Thompson 35. 4th David Spolding 35. These prize winners also go into the PRO COMP ball sweep, along with: Paul Field 35, John Jensen 35, Steven Johnstone 34, Nicky Basson 34, Ray Salisbury 33, Bob Morgan 33, Brain Smith 33, Mark Edwards 32, Ray Kelly 32, Tom Doolan 32.

NEAREST THE PIN

HOLE 7: Sponsored by Perfect Golf: Won by: Peter Kirwan 43 - 58cm HOLE 14: Sponsored by Jamie Judd. Won by Peter Kirwan - 130cm

Sarah

FIRST it was Geoff Day, a long time stalwart of the Cowra Blues, who reached 100 games Then it was son Chris's turn to bring up the ton.

Last weekend at the field named in her father's honour, senior women's captain, Sarah Day, notched up a century of games for the club too.

While the Blues didn't get the result against their more fancied rivals the Giants from Bathurst - going down by 17 points, the match was a real arm wrestle from the opening bounce

The opening quarter saw both sides fight for position and possession and Cowra were unlucky not to have more to show for it trailing 1.1.7 to 0.0.2. After the break both sides lifted the tempo, trading a goal and a behind each before the Giants nabbed another to take a 3.3.21 to 1.3.9 lead into oranges. The second stanza was again a tight affair with both sides picking up a goal apiece however the Giants grabbed three behinds to extend the lead to 14 points going into the final quarter (4.6.30 to 2.4.16). Emma Nobes and Charlotte Oliver did their best to slow the Giants and Brodie Parbs was everywhere trying to energise the Blues but in the end the class of the visitors kept the Blues chasing the game and never let them settle

Goals from Erin Wise, Donna Young Christie and Kaitlyn Trethewey weren't enough to counter the faster and more experienced Giants side as the visitors stretched the lead to 17 points by the final whistle, finishing with 5.9.39 to 3.4.22 with Bathurst's Elise Gullifer best on ground with two goals

While it wasn't the 100 game celebration for captain Sarah Day many had hoped for, the effort from the girls was excellent as they put in one of their best performances of the season despite the scoreline

Next week Cowra has the bye before wrapping their season with a home game against Dubbo Demons on Saturday August 10 and an away visit in the final round to Orange on Saturday August 17 at Waratah Sports Ground.

– DANE MILLERD

Cowra Senior Tennis Club had a wet one on Sunday

– DAN RYAN

Veterans golf winner Ray Salisbury. File photo.

Magpies at home for Woodbridge semis

BY ANDREW FISHER

WHILE the Cowra Magpies host the Woodbridge Cup qualifying semi finals this Sunday as undefeated minor premiers coach Phil Ingram is under no illusion the real work starts now.

The Magpies secured the minor premiership with a thrilling 19-18 win over the Peak Hill Roosters in Peak Hill on Sunday to maintain the top spot on the ladder over the Canowindra Tigers

The Magpies will now meet fourth placed Manildra this Sunday

"We made it a bit hard for ourselves, execution on some of our plays was a bit poor, " Ingram said of the win over Peak Hill.

"It was 18 all and Ricky (Whitton) kicked a field goal from about 30 out, I thought he actually missed it."

"We've got a couple of injury concerns, Blake Duncombe will miss the week with a hip injury and Luke Kinsey with an ankle injury.

"It was pleasing we were able to achieve the minor premiership and go through undefeated but it's a whole new ball game now.

"We've given ourselves the best opportunity with a home semi and if we win this one we'll get another home semi to lead into the grand final.

"We're a bit down on troops but the boys coming in have done the job all year," he said.

The Magpies will have all three sides in action at Sid Kallas with the Youth League side meeting Orange United at 11.20am, League Tag against Canowindra at 12.30pm and first grade tak-

ing on Manildra in first grade from 2pm

Ingram congratulated the league tag and under 18s for progressing to the semi finals

"It's going to be a big day, if everyone can come over and support us it will be good," Ingram said.

The likely Cowra first grade squad is Morea Phillip, Josh Weston, Mitchell Hatch, Daniel Hatch, Fotofili Paunga, Tyler Nobes, Ricky Whitton, Sam Ingram, Stephen Ingram, Jake Slattery, Tyson Williams, Jack Harper, Kyle Kemp, Stanley Rush, Matt Frazer, Sam Frazer, Dave Doran.

This weekend's other Woodbridge Cup semi finals will be played in Canowindra, Peak Hill and Eugowra.

Canowindra are at home on Sunday in first grade taking on Trundle from 2pm in the competition's other qualifying semi final.

The Canowindra Youth League side will host Grenfell from 12.40pm while the League Tag match is between Manildra and Orange United at 11.20am

At Peak Hill in an elimination semi final on Saturday in League Tag at 1.40pm the Roosters host Grenfell and in first grade Oberon.

At Eugowra the Golden Eagles take on Molong at 3pm in another elimination semi final and in League Tag Molong plays Trundle from 1.40pm.

Magpie Ricky Whitton finished top scorer at the end of the regular season with 135 points with fellow Magpies Luke Kinsey and Morea Phillip were the top try scorers with 17.

points

Top 2 finish in Youth League

THE Cowra Youth League concluded the regular Woodbridge Cup season in second place with Phillip Ingram emerging as the top point scorer with eight tries and the top point scorer with 126 points and Jayden Williams top try scorer with 18 tries

The season began with a win against Blayney Bears, 26-16 before a second round bye.

They continued their winning streak in the third round by defeating Grenfell Goannas 46-4 before a loss to Molong Bulls 36-10.

The Magpies bounced

Phillip Ingram

back in the fifth round, winning against Grenfell Goannas 42-8, and continued their dominance in the sixth

round with a 50-10 victory over the same team.

In the seventh round, they defeated Orange United 3618 before a win over Blayney 44-10.

The ninth round ended in a draw against Orange before a win against Canowindra Tigers, 38-20 and a loss to Molong 20-6. They narrowly won against Canowindra Tigers in the twelfth round, 3024, and edged out Blayney Bears in the thirteenth round, 22-17.

The team had a bye in the fourteenth round before another win over Canowindra.

KEMP

– CARA

O'Brien Cup match at bowls

CANOWINDRA BOWLS

NOT a lot of bowls at the Canowindra Bowling Club this week due to weather conditions

With a wet green and forecast of more rain bowls was called off on Saturday, July 27.

Sunday, July 28 bowlers had more luck with an O'Brien Cup game being played

Mitch McAllister and Bob Cann gave Ben Rooke and Tony Tuimauga a small scare after a shaky start with Mitch and Bob putting out a strong challenge

Ben and Tony steadily pulled back the lead with three big multiple results towards the end of the match

The final score was 41/26.

Games for the weekend are:

Saturday 1pm

Westy and Tot vs Peter and Jamie S in the O'Brien Cup. Harry vs Crock with Brad as the marker in a consistency singles match and at 2 pm In another consistency singles match Roger is taking on David with Dool as the marker On Sunday at 1 pm in a consistency singles match Mitch McAllister is taking on Greg Chester. The marker is Jamie Stewart.

Badge draw Wednesday $650, Friday $900 and Sunday $350

Good luck to all the Canowindra Tigers this weekend in the semi finals New members numbers apply this weekend.

Book your place for upcoming Movember with chicken and prawn night and music at the Canowindra Bowling Club on November 30.

League Tag's shot at history

THE Cowra Magpies league tag side is determined to make history this year with hopes of a grand final victory.

Finishing the premiership season third on the ladder, Cowra is heading into this weekend's semi-finals with a strong determination to reach the top.

Coach Greg Garlick shared his thoughts on the season and the team's progress admitting that coming into the Woodbridge Cup, he was unsure about the team's prospects due to having a new roster with many new players and little knowledge about their competition.

"We just focused on ourselves and didn't worry too much about expectations and where we should've

been," Garlick said. He praised the team's improvement, noting their attack had been getting better throughout the year

"The last three or four weeks we've been quite refined and disciplined, it's all coming together at the right time," he said.

"Everyone has played a role this season."

Garlick emphasised the importance of creating a good team culture.

"They've never won a title before, I wanna create history and I want them to be the first to do it," he said.

– CARA KEMP

Ricky Whitton the top scorer at the end of the regular Woodbridge Cup season with 135

RUGBY LEAGUE

Emilie Browne

ROGER TRAVES

# SPORT

Tigers hold off Rhinos

BY DANE MILLERD

ROB Burn's 250th game for the Canowindra Tigers couldn't have been scripted any better

The wily veteran clocked up the milestone in Canowindra's hard fought 28-16 win over fourth placed Manildra Rhinos at Tom Clyburn Oval last Sunday

The Tigers, who've had one loss all year, racked up win number 12 in a mature display that has secured a second chance in the Woodbridge Cup semi-finals

Despite being slow out of the blocks against a physical Rhino's outfit and trailing at the break, the Tigers started to hit their stride in the second stanza with quick tries to backrower Nathan Barlow and super sub Deegy Mariner setting up a grandstand finish with 20 left on the clock.

Tries to Manildra's Jack Stubbs and Canowindra's John Taulaga gave the Tigers a slight lead due to better goalkicking from Bailey Kennedy but it was a James Dine special that put the game to

rest when he scored on fulltime to get the Tigers home in blustery and gloomy conditions

Kennedy kicked three conversions while Burn, put the icing on the cake in his landmark game for the club

The win puts Canowindra on 27 points, two behind Cowra who scraped home over Peak Hill at Peak Hill.

In other results, Canowindra League Tag drew with Manildra 12-12 in a real arm wrestle that saw each team go tit-for-tat in a two tries apiece epic Lillian Harrison and Laura Price scored for the Tigers either side of halftime while Haley White and Indigo Heard added the extras

The match is an entree to what could surely be the grand final in a few short weeks as both Canowindra and Manildra sit equal first on the ladder with only Manildra's superior for-andagainst the difference while Cowra sits in third three points adrift

While in Youth Tag, Canowindra went down to Cowra Magpies 24-16 at

Canowindra.

Tries to Jacob Bezett and a brace to Kaiden Cole wasn't enough to unset the high-flying Magpies who remain in second.

Despite the loss, the Tigers remain in fourth in the Youth Tag competition two points clear of fifth

In this weekend's semi finals of the Woodbridge Cup Canowindra are at home on Sunday in first grade taking on Trundle from 2pm The Youth League side will host Grenfell from 12.40pm while the League Tag match is between Manildra and Orange United at 11.20am On Sunday at Cowra the Magpies meet Orange United in Youth League at 11.20am, Canowindra in the League Tag at 12.30pm and Manildra in first grade from 2pm Saturday's semi finals are at Peak Hill and Eugowra. At Peak Hill in League Tag at 1.40pm the Roosters host Grenfell and in first grade Oberon. At Eugowra the Golden Eagles take on Molong at 3pm and in League Tag Molong plays Trundle from 1.40pm

Canowindra Tigers Rob Burn running out for his 250th game for the club Canowindra got the win with Burn kicking a penalty to seal the win. Photo Narelle Hughes