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There’s no one quite like them – The Pigs are a real down-home ensemble that always puts on a rollicking good show – and they’re coming to the Crossroads Bar in Dubbo this week.
Now celebrating their 20th anniversary tour, their infectious mix of fine folk musicianship and laugh-along lyrics took them all the way to the semi-finals of Australia’s Got Talent a decade ago.
Renowned for their eclectic fusion of country, hillbilly, bluegrass, folk, and comedy, The Pigs have captivated audiences for decades with their chart-topping hits, undeniable talent, and infectious energy.
Part of their unique act involves The Pigs taking iconic pop hits and giving them a bluegrass twist. Their latest creation – and winner of the National Folk Festival Infinite Song Competition – is a show-stopping medley that somehow combines 17 Elton John songs into a five-minute extravaganza!
But at the heart of The Pigs’ success lie their original compositions, which have become beloved anthems among their dedicated fan base. The celebration tour will feature all the fan favourites, including their icon-
ic hit Macho Moisturiser, a hilarious romp through the world of masculinity and skincare.
With T-Bone Pig on lead vocals and nylon string acoustic guitar, Stretch Pig on lead vocals and steel string acoustic guitar and harmonica, Cousin Burt on double bass and backing vocals, Cousin Shamus on stand-up drum kit, and Cousin Montz on banjo, The Pigs deliver a dynamic stage presence that has solidified their status as festival favourites.
Over the years, The Pigs have graced the stages of renowned festivals across Australia and Europe, including the Gympie Music Muster, Woodford Folk Festival, Port Fairy Folk Festival, and many more.
Their international appeal has seen them conquer audiences at festivals like Skagen Folk Festival in Denmark and Schaubudensommer and Bardentreffen in Germany during their three European tours.
“We’ve changed a lot over these 20 years,” remarked Stretch Pig of their stage style. “We started out more or less as a late-night party band, with bluegrass-inspired cover versions and crazy energy,” he added.
The band, he explained, has certainly developed musically from those raw-boned early days.
“Now, I think we’re a lot more theatrical, more musical, more comical, and more original,” Stretch revealed.
“We’ve developed our craft and our identity as we’ve gone along… but we’re still crazily energetic, I hope!
“The Pigs are celebrating their 20th Anniversary playing and entertainin’,
and we’re coming to the Crossroads Dubbo, on Saturday, October 26,” a band spokesperson said.
“Pretty hard to see past that, cause we’re so damn excited… we ain’t been out that way for yonks, you should come,” they concluded. Tickets from 123Tix.
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PAGE THREE
Where do you work? Taronga Western Plains Zoo.
Do you have a nickname? Kitty. What do you like to do on the weekends? Go to the theatre and camping, but always love having a lazy weekend!
Do you have any hidden talents or special skills? Not yet, I’m determined to find one in my 20s. I’m trying to learn tap and I’d love to whip that out one day.
What would you do with $1 million? Build a cat sanctuary, to desex and get cats off the streets.
What are you watching at the moment? The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.
What would you be lost without? My pets. What music do you like to listen to? Pop, country or musicals.
If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you wish you had with you? My husband, my safestyle sunglasses, and a blanket.
What is your all-time favourite movie? Mama Mia.
If there was a movie all about you, what genre would it be and who would play you? Comedy, and Margot Robbie (because who wouldn’t want to be portrayed by her!)
Best advice you have ever been given? If you don’t love yourself, how the hell are you gunna love somebody else, amen.
What do the next five years look like for you?
My focus over the next five years will be my family, career and health.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED.
^
THE Dubbo Photo News has won three awards in the 2024 Country Press NSW Awards of Excellence held last Friday evening (October 18).
Named as ‘Best Free Newspaper’, the Dubbo Photo News captured the imagination of the well-credentialled judging panel including Walkley Award winning journalist Greg McFarland (chair) along with Charles Sturt University lecturer and former country newspaper reporter Victoria Erskine, household name in Australian advertising Lianne Richards and professional photographer Glenn Mickle.
The judging panel said of the Dubbo Photo News: “Dubbo Photo News earns the top spot due to its exceptional balance of content. It delivers a vibrant mix of news, community information, and advertising.
“It is filled with colourful, engaging photos of locals, which adds a personal touch and fosters community pride. The inclusion of dedicated sections for children enhances its appeal to families, ensuring it caters to a wide audience.”
Along with the first award, sports journalist Geoff Mann and sports photographer Mel Pocknall were also honoured as the Dubbo Photo News also took out the ‘Best Sports Coverage’ award.
“The love of sport – all sport –shines through the pages of Dubbo Photo News thanks to a special dynamic duo,” the judges commented.
“Journalist Geoff Mann pens memorable pieces each week, and these are seamlessly matched through the camera of Mel Pocknall.
“From the tiniest junior sports
carnival up to western sports stars achieving on the world stage, there is no topic this pair cannot cover.”
The Dubbo Photo News was also a joint-winner of the ‘Best Print Advertisement’ award for its Sarah Jane Fine Foods entry.
“The Dubbo Photo News entry, ‘Sarah Jane Fine Foods’, beautifully captures the essence of family, which resonates strongly with the target audience,” the judges noted.
“The image of a mother and her young children baking together is heart-warming and evokes feelings of nostalgia, making it relatable and appealing.
“The ad’s bright colours and inviting visuals draw attention immediately.”
The Dubbo Photo News was joint winner with the Riverine Grazier’s Carrathool Races 2024
advertisement.
“Both ads excel in their own right by effectively engaging their respective audiences,” the judges said.
Dubbo Photo News returned to the winners’ circle in 2024 with that trio of awards.
The 2024 Country Press NSW Awards of Excellence saw a record number of members (28) entering the annual competition.
This was a significant increase on last year when 22 members took part, and almost double the 2022 field (16 members).
The awards were part of the 2024 Country Press NSW Annual Conference.
The conference was a resounding success, with 106 members, sponsors and guests attending the regional event in Dubbo on October 17 and 18.
President Lucie Peart, Gilgan-
dra Newspapers, was re-elected unanimously at the annual general meeting to lead the organisation for an eighth term.
She received a special award from the membership for her outstanding work over many years to rebuild Country Press NSW. Also at the annual general meeting, Edward Higgins, Mid-West Media, was elected vice-president.
At the awards dinner, the major guest of honour, minister for agriculture, regional, and western NSW, Tara Moriarty, delivered an address on the NSW government’s commitment to the regional newspaper industry, to be delivered through a $3 million second package of the Regional Media Fund.
Other invited guests attending the dinner were federal member for Parkes, Mark Coulton, National MLC Sam Farraway, Labor MLC Stephen Lawrence, National MLC
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Sarah Mitchell, and Jamie Chaffey (Country Mayors Association).
The CPNSW Awards of Excellence, which received a 25 per cent increase in entries this year, was again the feature event for most attending newspapers.
In the journalism section, Lily Plass of the Coonamble Times was the Young Journalist of the Year, while Sharon Bonthuys of the Narromine Star was Journalist of the Year (the second time she has won the senior category).
The Narromine Star was also judged to be the Best Small Newspaper, a new category open to newspapers printing less than 700 copies per week.
Wanda and Ian Dunnet, of the North West Courier Group, have retired from the industry as threetime winners of Best Paid Newspaper, with their Gunnedah Times taking the award this year follow-
ing previous wins in 2023 and 2022 by The Courier.
The Courier also stood out this year, winning Best News Coverage with a powerful series on a regional health crisis.
Wanda and Ian Dunnet were also jointly awarded the Conscientious Service to Country Newspapers honour for their contribution both to the Country Press (state and national) and to the northwest newspaper industry.
The Riverine Grazier took top place in Best News Story, with coverage of a foreign investment venture gone wrong, while The Gilgandra Weekly received Best Sports Story with an in-depth look at disparity between men’s and women’s sport in the country.
In the main photography sections, the Wellington and District Leader achieved a double by winning Best Human-Inter-
est Photograph, and Best News Photograph, while Parkes Champion Post took out Best Sports Photograph.
Deniliquin Pastoral Times was
a stand-out in the advertising section, winning the Best New Advertising Product.
The Cobar Weekly won the Best Technical Innovation award, with
a project to upgrade its edition to full colour under a grant provided by the NSW government under the first stage of the Regional Media Fund.
By DAVID DIXON
INDICATIVE of the increasing diversity of the multicultural golden west, Orana Regional United Malayalee Association (ORUMA) Dubbo, successfully hosted their annual “Onam 2024” cultural festival recently.
Onam is a vibrant festival of Kerala culture and heritage from the southern state of India as an important harvest festival celebrated by Malayalees worldwide.
Commemorating the life of the mythical king, Mahabali, the festival is marked by colourful decorations, traditional music, dance, and sumptuous feasts.
This year’s local event kicked-off with a series of board games, including a painting competition for children, a chess tournament for kids and adults, and a carrom (a table-top game of Indian origin) championship for adults and kids.
The Onam celebration also includes cricket and soccer tournaments and a Family Fun Day in the St Mary’s school ground with locals participating in activities like lolly picking, ball races, musical chairs, and a tug-of-war competition.
The winner of the tug-ofwar received goat meat, which was later used to prepare
a delicious biriyani for the community. Other delicacies included a pickle and rice dessert competition that attracted 25 families able to showcase their culinary skills. The auction of these delectable treats also raised a total of $1047 for the community.
ORUMA also organised a women’s throwball tournament dedicated to the memory of Sherin Alexander, a beloved community member who passed in a tragic accident early this year.
The cricket tournament for men and a mixed soccer game further added to the festive atmosphere.
Highlight of the Onam celebration was, however, the grand stage event held at Dubbo Christian School in late September. The event featured numerous cultural performances by children and adults, including dance, skits, and traditional Onam dances. The day concluded with a sumptuous feast of 23 traditional dishes, a true culinary delight.
As the Onam celebrations ended, the community members expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to connect with their roots and celebrate their culture together.
The success of ORUMA’s Onam festival has left everyone eagerly anticipating the next year’s celebrations.
THERE’S nothing like beautiful spring water on a hot summer’s day, with Summer Springs – formerly Neverfail Dubbo – now moving to a new phase of their corporate journey.
The move is a great development for loyal customers in the Golden West, with the new brand now taking a very regionally-based approach to their renowned customer and quality assurance service standards.
“As a proudly independent, Australian, regionally-owned-and-operated business, we are transitioning to supplying our own Summer Springs brand premium spring water,” a company spokesperson said.
“This move highlights our commitment to supporting local jobs and businesses across regional NSW from our facilities in Dubbo, Tamworth, and Armidale, while ensuring we continue to provide high quality hydration solutions to homes and businesses,” they added.
This development follows the move by Summer Springs to transition from distributing Neverfail water, to supplying its own premium water sourced from pristine springs in regional NSW. This transition marks the next chapter in the company’s long-standing commitment to providing top-quality hydration solutions to homes and businesses across regional NSW, and importantly ensures the business’s long-term viability.
After over 30 years of distributing Neverfail water, Summer Springs will now deliver its own branded spring water, ensuring great value and a fresh, crisp taste. The company says customers will start to receive Summer Springs bottles from Friday, November 1.
Summer Springs water is sourced
from pristine natural springs, selected for their superior mineral content and fresh, clean and crisp taste. This makes Summer Springs a superior choice for hydration, particularly for those prioritising health and wellbeing at home and at work.
“We listened to our customers’ feedback, especially about what they expect a spring water service to look like,” Summer Springs General Manager Josh Angus said.
“Our new bottles are BPA-free, our water has an optimal pH level and low TDS [total dissolved solids], meaning it’s purer and better for hydration, as
nature intended.” he added.
Summer Springs, he added, is committed to supporting regional communities and local businesses. This transition enables customers to choose a local product, reducing reliance on larger multinationals and promoting employment sustainability within the region.
“By choosing Summer Springs, customers aren’t just getting high quality water; they’re also supporting local jobs, regional development, and sustainability,” Josh explained.
“This is a natural step forward for our business, and we’re proud to be delivering a premium, locally sourced product where profits stay in our communities, in regional NSW.” Summer Springs is ensuring that the transition is as smooth as possible for its customers. Existing delivery schedules and drivers will remain unchanged, ensuring no disruption to service. Customers will receive the new BPA-free bottles with their scheduled deliveries, with no need for equipment changes as Summer Springs owns all of the rental equipment.
“This change won’t disrupt our customers’ current experience – we’re simply doing the same as always, but with our new, premium spring water,” Summer Springs Operations Manager Chris Briggs said “We’ve worked hard to make sure that the transition is seamless, with no interruptions to the service customers currently receive,” he explained. In addition to the water quality and convenience, new customers can join Summer Springs with a current promotion of $99 for their first-year annual rental, plus three free 15-litre bottles of spring water, delivered.
HThe popular business has also expanded to include weekly deliveries to Sydney, Canberra and surrounding areas. “We have recently started attending the Farmers Markets in the Dubbo region with our range,” says Mal. “Raw pet foods have many benefits for our furry friends. Advantages to adding raw pet foods to your pet’s diet can include better digestion, good oral health, healthy coats, reduced skin irritations and assist in weight management.”
Hungry Mates is also supplying quality raw meats for a number of conservation programs, and is helping the diets of animals from lions, cheetahs, tigers to wild dogs.
Hungry Mate Raw Pet Food is open Tuesday to Friday 9am-5.30pm, and Saturday mornings 9am-1pm. Come in to check out the great selection of raw pet foods for our favourite furry mates.
“They
Dubbo Photo News was recently contacted by a former local who – on a recent return to the region – suffered a medical emergency. Below, is his story…
“My name is Mark O’Brien, I recently had my life saved by the people at Dubbo Base Hospital. Too often these institutions are ridiculed and rubbished for primarily nonsensical, unfounded reasons, but I just want to make a public ‘thank you’ to those who do much, for so many, in western NSW.
Not having lived in the region for some 24 years, the last time I required their services was some 31 years ago when I was involved in a car accident and required all sorts of attention. Back then, the service was grand, but this time it was something much more.
For starters, everything seemed new. People were everywhere and, at 7:30 on a Sunday morning, this was a surprise.
My back story is, I live in Vanuatu and had flown back on the Tuesday to Brisbane and then drove to Dubbo on the Wednesday. Arriving around 8:30pm, I went straight to Lourdes Hospital where my Dad was in his final hours before he passed early on Thursday morning. (The staff at Lourdes were some of the most respectful people I have ever encountered, and I must thank them for their service and for the way in which they took care of not only our dad, but my brother and sisters during his last moments. They made a difficult time, less difficult.)
We spent the rest of the Thursday making arrangements for our dad and, late that afternoon, I came down with a pretty solid fever and vomiting, pretty gruesome. At the time I had no idea what was wrong with me, I just knew I was not well.
I was delirious until Saturday evening; even
then things were not quite right but I couldn’t seem to comprehend what was wrong with me. I did have enough sense to take a heap of medications and, on Sunday morning, realised I was in need of some serious medical attention. Being a male and not grasping the situation as a normal person would, it wasn’t until I looked at the offending leg and saw it was close to purple-black to the knee that I realised things were not quite right.
I managed to get into a car and drove to Dubbo Base.
It was around 7.30 by the time I arrived, and I presented myself – led along by my very understanding wife – to the Emergency Department. Immediately I arrived I was asked inside to have the on-duty Nurse to triage (assess) me.
Please note that the waiting area was surprisingly full and, as most know, the triage is where they determine which lane you go into, depending on the level of severity of your particular injury/diagnosis of need compared to other patients.
Such as… a highly-infected patient with a very ordinary-looking leg tends to move you up the list and, to be frank, so it should. I had only recently had two knee replacements some nine months previously, and this tends to move you up to being a critical patient and you get to go up the list even higher.
I was promptly taken out to the next section. Here, they took bloods and gave me some ‘meds’ for the pain. I was then sent back to the waiting room whilst they did their blood work and determine what for starters may be my problem.
This took around an hour which, even for a normal weekday would be fast. They took me back in and the place was swamped with people – you could see the staff were stretched thin.
Space to sit was limited, but the staff did their best to make me and others as comfortable as was practical. I soon had doctors testing and prodding, as they tend to do. I had piqued their interest as my “infection markers”, which are normal at ‘1’, not good at ‘4’… and mine came in at ‘499’!
Things happened pretty fast from there. I was called in by the orthopaedic surgeon for a consultation who said it was as high as he had seen, and they were worried they may have had to “take” the leg, depending on whether or not it manifested into some condition, whereby the infection started to eat the flesh.They were brutally honest in their assessments, but explained everything well.
They bought in the Infectious Diseases unit for a consultation, and he quickly got me onto some drugs – the official diagnosis after several hours was cellulitis of the right leg. However, they knew that it had been started by a secondary infection, and I was hospitalised as soon as they could find a bed.
It was the secondary infection they needed to find to really deal with the infection. Three days of culture-after-culture, until finally they tracked it down to a ‘sleeper infection’ in the calf that may have been waiting for several years to come out when the conditions were right, and boy were they right!
So I ended up lying peacefully in the extended day-care unit, having drugs pumped into me like there was no tomorrow. Every day, the blood tests and response to that was always immediate.
The nurses were fantastic, they did CT scans on me as well as ultrasounds on my heart and more, just to make sure all was good and no other issues arose that may complicate the situation. They knew that the two knee replacements were a potential health threat if the infection were to pass to
either one of them, and sometimes such infections can prove fatal.
The staff worked diligently on me for several days until they managed to get my infection markers down low enough to get me to the ‘Hospital in a Home’ program; this allows you to go to the hospital every day and they replace the IV ‘football’ with your required medicine, which is miraculously dripping direct into your blood stream via a cannula in the arm.
They then monitor your blood every day and take care of the infected leg as well as daily observations and then let you back home. I had a total of some 21 days of this treatment, before I got back to a reasonable and safe level to go onto oral tablets for medication.
In December last year I was in a leading private hospital (elsewhere in the state), and at the time I thought that it was as good as it gets. But I have to say, after spending time at Dubbo Base, the facilities, the carers and the staff – right through to the janitors and everyone in between – are just so darn good.
Dubbo is lucky to have such a facility, with great staff and top-shelf services. There is not much they can’t do at the Base and, in my opinion, they do it better – and with a smile. Even the food is great, once you work out how to order off the menu. All the staff do so much more than their job requires, to make you feel comfortable and, in my case, not scared for the entire stay.
I can’t thank them enough for the care they provided me, in the most professional of manners, with some good, old-fashioned country hospitality.
To all the hard-working men and women of Dubbo Base, thank you all so very much for saving my life.”
– Mark O’Brien
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By LANA EATHER
DUBBO College Year 12 students have completed the first weeks of their Higher School Certificate exams. The college has a cohort of 277 Year 12 students for 2024 with further education, training, and employment firmly in their sights. Last week students studying standard and advanced English and English Studies sat their first papers with most students feeling happy and well prepared for the exam. Dubbo College Senior Campus School Captain Marshir Towers, an Advanced English student, said: “I found this paper not easier but much more enjoyable than the trial paper. Right now, I feel quite happy because I finished the essay this time, which I wasn’t able to do
during trials.”
Many students expressed relief and pride in their efforts. “The exam was good, very similar to trials. I feel confident, and I’m happy it’s done,” said Molly Bell. “For some, the lead-up felt intense, but all that preparation paid off.” English Head Teacher Manti Morse expressed confidence in the students’ preparation, acknowledging that while some aspects of the exam were challenging, the skills they have honed in class would guide them through. “Some of the questions were really challenging for the students,” Ms Morse said. “However, the skills that we worked on will allow them to answer those questions. The exam provided a wide scope, giving the students the opportunity to showcase their abilities.
Some of the initial short-answer questions may have been challenging, but they got the students thinking and made them rely on the skills we’ve taught in class.”
Ms Morse also expressed her enthusiasm for the paper and optimism about the students’ performance. Principal Mr Glen Braithwaite said staff and students were eager for the exams to begin with many participating in HSC coaching offered by the school over the holiday period. “Our students were both composed and focused before heading into their first exam. This reflects the consistent effort by all staff to ensure students were well prepared,” Mr Braithwaite said.
The HSC exams will conclude on Friday, November 8.
By DAVID DIXON
DUBBO high school students with a love of the limelight recently spent a week refining their theatrical skills as part of The Smith Family’s SmArts program.
The innovative Theatre Workshop, covered acting topics such as building ensemble skills, improvisation, movement techniques for physical theatre, generating ideas, and creating a performance for an audience on the final day.
Student Peyton said the workshop created a sense of true camaraderie among the participants.
“There was so much happiness and joy,” Peyton said.
“We all felt the same happiness, same everything and worked together.”
Fellow participant Ruby described the Theatre Workshop as “a really nice and positive experience”.
The Smith Family’s SmArts program is designed for students from Years 8 to 12, who have shown an interest or talent in the creative or performing arts.
That includes drama, dance, music, theatre, visual arts, podcasting, digital media, screen printing and design.
The Smith Family’s Acting Regional Program Manager for NSW and the ACT, Sean Dyball, was thrilled
SmArt thinking: Dubbo high school students with a love of theatre recently spent a week refining their skills as part of The Smith Family’s workshop program. PHOTO: SUPPLIED.
with the workshop.
“The SmArts program is a wonderful way to engage Dubbo students who have a creative or performing arts mindset, which was evident in their amazing performance,” he said.
“You never know – the experience and knowledge students gain from the SmArts program may lay the foundations for Australia’s next great artist, musician, theatre performer, dancer or film star,” he added.
The project, he hoped, could be a springboard to a career in the performing arts for any or all of the participants.
“I know some are already starring in local theatre productions later this year, so let’s hope it’s the start of
a big future for these students,” Sean said.
“The students’ engagement, reaction and joy during the workshop this week was evident for everyone to see and proof of why the SmArts program is so valuable to the Dubbo community,” he concluded.
Facilitated by The Grin and Tonic Theatre Troupe, the initiative was organised in partnership with The Paul Ramsay Foundation and The Smith Family.
The Smith Family is a national children’s education charity that helps young Australians to create better futures for themselves.
The Smith Family supports more than 162,000 students through their financial and educational support programs.
Oct 24: Bill Wyman, a Rolling Stone, 88. Kevin Kline, US actor, 77. Malcolm Turnbull , former Prime Minister, 70. Simon Gallaher, entertainer, 66. Ian Baker-Finch, golfer, 64. Tom Gleisner, TV host-comedian, 62. Ben Gillies, rock musician of Silverchair, 45. Keyshia Cole US singer, 41. Wayne Rooney, English soccer player, 39. Lincoln Lewis, actor, 37. Eliza Taylor, actress, 35. Oct 25: Marion Ross, Mr s Cunningham on TV’s Happy Days, 96. Nancy Cartwright , the voice of Bart Simpson, 67. Brett Kirk , AFL player, 48. Matt Shirvington, athlete and Sunrise presenter, 46. Katy Perry, US singer, 40. Oct 26: Hillary Rodham Clinton, US politician, 77. Keith Urban, country singer, 57. Seth MacFarlane US animator-actor, 51. Jon Heder, US actor, 47. Guy Sebastian, pop singer, 43. Oct 27: John Cleese, British actor-comedian, 85. Simon Le Bon, singer of Duran Duran, 66. Mark Taylor, cricketer, 60. Beccy Cole, country singer, 52. Kelly Osbourne, UK celebrity, 40. David Warner, cricketer, 38. Oct 28: Cleo Laine, British singer-actress, 97. Bernie Ecclestone, English motorsports figure, 94. Terence Donovan, actor, 82. Dennis Franz , US actor, 80. John Hewson, former politician, 78. Bill Gates, Mr Microsoft, 69. Julia Roberts, US actress, 57. Ben Harper, rock singer, 55. Joaquin Phoenix , US actor, 50. Oct 29: Frank Sedgman, tennis champion, 97. Richard Dreyfuss, US actor, 77. Dan Castellaneta , the voice of Homer Simpson, 67. Stefan Dennis, Paul Robinson in Neighbours, 66. Eddie McGuire, media-AFL personality, 60. Andrew Ettingshausen, footy player-TV host, 59. Matthew Hayden, cricketer, 53.
For those in search of the perfect pair of shoes that blends comfort, style and quality, Williams Shoes stands out as the ideal choice.
Conveniently located at Orana Mall for the past 25 years, this store has established itself as a go-to destination for footwear.
Williams Shoes takes pride in offering a wide range of footwear for every season.
Whether customers are looking for the latest trends or timeless classics, the extensive collection features top brands such as Supersoft, Diana Ferrari, Colorado, I Love Billy, and Blowfish. This season, shoppers won’t want to miss the stunning selection from leading brands designed to elevate their wardrobes.
With a rich heritage dating back to 1864 in Ballarat, Williams Shoes is distinguished by its long-standing commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The store is not just about selling shoes; it’s about building lasting relationships. The dedicated team goes above and beyond to ensure every
customer feels valued and satisfied with their purchase.
Staying ahead of footwear trends is a passion at Williams Shoes. With a keen eye for style and a carefully curated selection of the latest footwear, the store proudly positions itself as a leader in the industry. Shoppers can trust that they are getting the best in both fashion and function.
As an Australian-owned company, Williams Shoes is committed to supporting local communities and providing genuine, great, customer service. The happy, knowledgeable team is always on hand to assist customers in finding exactly what they need.
Williams Shoes are open during Orana Mall’s core trading hours. Head on in, and discover why the store has been a beloved fixture for 25 years.
Stepping into the store means stepping up one’s shoe game.
The perfect pair awaits at Williams Shoes!
are doing it again, after a massive response to our competition last year our COMP is back! Don’t miss your chance to win a Honda Bundle valued at $1236. Entering is easy, just tell us in 25 words or less WHAT YOU LOVE OR HATE ABOUT GARDENING
Entry forms can be found in the Sept 26, Oct 3, 10 & 17 editions of The Dubbo Photo News. Winner announced Oct 31.
A time to celebrate all things finned, fanged, furry and feathered. Dubbo Photo News staff and sponsors are excited to feature 30 days worth of cuddly, courageous and crazy critters, who will no doubt make you laugh out loud with their antics and swoon at their cuteness.
By DAVID DIXON
INCREASING numbers of young Australians are realising that old-style trades and on-the-job training allows them to get into the workforce earlier and to stay living locally.
To this end, schools throughout the Golden West are being invited to become involved with an inaugural youth jobs event designed to build just such a regional workforce for the future.
Regional Development Australia (RDA) Orana recently launched their Orana Youth Forum to be held in Dubbo on Wednesday, November 6, at Dubbo Regional Theatre and Convention Centre.
The forum aims to match students from as far west as Bourke and Brewarrina, and everywhere in between, to employers in the region looking to drive their business with local workers.
The forum will focus on jobs and careers in demand for the region and connect young people throughout the Orana with business, industry leaders, universities and training providers, RDA Orana CEO Justine Campbell said.
“The initiative was developed after speaking with business, industry and government in the region about jobs for the future and how we could grow our own workforce,” Ms Campbell said.
“The forum will deliver a one-stop shop
Increasing numbers of young Australians are realising that old-style trades and on-the-job training, allows them to get into the workforce earlier and to stay living locally.
for employment and career needs, featuring a diverse range of industries and sectors that will provide an overview of different job prospects, educational programs, and vocational training options available in the
region,” she said.
The exhibition hall will feature employers looking to connect to local employees, with high-profile speakers in the main auditorium including former-Federal Minister
Where
and
What was your first paying job? My first job was at Best&Less. What is your favourite thing to do at Ace at Fades? If I could sculpt beards all day I would! What attributes do you admire? Hardworking, reliability, and honesty. What is your favourite thing to do on a weekend? Relax and unwind! What’s your favourite dish to cook or eat? Potato Bake.
and
“The forum will feature an exhibition hall with 40 exhibitors, seminars with inspirational keynote speakers in the convention centre, an outdoor interactive space utilising the Dubbo Regional Council car park and Victoria Park.
“We will have high school students visiting from across the region including Bourke, Brewarrina, Binnaway, Cobar, Coonamble, Coonabarabran, Dubbo, Nyngan, Walgett and Mudgee – to name only a few.”
Ms Campbell said expressions of interest were now open for exhibitors to take part in the exhibition hall.
“We are looking for businesses, training providers, employment services, tertiary institutions, government agencies and youth support services to come on board and showcase their services to our region’s young people,” she said.
“Filling skills needs, and building our future workforce, is a priority for RDA Orana.”
She added that she was “delighted” that EnergyCo and ACEREZ had come on board as naming rights sponsors for the inaugural event.
“We hope the EnergyCo and ACEREZ Orana Youth Forum will provide our young people with information about the current opportunities and pathways available to them,” she concluded.
Inland Petroleum is an independent fuel and lubricants distributor proudly serving customers across western and north-western NSW.
The company currently has a position available for a Parts and Logistics Coordinator who is responsible for managing the flow of spare parts through the workshop and assisting the Logistics Manager with aspects of fleet management.
You will manage parts inventory, stocktake and registration of Inland’s fleet of over 80 heavy and light vehicles.
Ideally, you will have experience in parts interpretation, inventory control
and stock management, with knowledge of Heavy Vehicle parts.
You will:
Order parts and maintain stock levels
Manage inventory and parts registers
Conduct regular stocktakes
Coordinate registration of Inlands Heavy & Light Vehicle Fleet
Pack, load and unload parts for delivery
Keep accurate records
Address any Quality concerns in a timely and professional manner
Assist the Logistics Manager with general workshop tasks as required. See full details as www.seek.com.au
Wellinton Lions would like to thank representatives of Dubbo Prostate Cancer Support Group who attended the information and fundraising Barbeque outside Wellington Craft Co-op on the long weekend, they would also like to thank the supporters who bought their morning tea/lunch from them.
Wellington Lions had their Annual General Meeting with most members present and were happy to report that they had a good busy year, with an increase
DAVID DIXON
WELLINGTON family practice Swift Street Medical’s antenatal clinic was recently highlighted as one of Australia’s top health providers.
This follows their naming as a finalist in the Commonwealth ‘Stronger Medicare Awards’, which are designed to recognise and honour Medicare Champions from around Australia who provide exceptional care, embrace innovation, and work together to improve the health of their community.
The team at Swift Street was especially recognised for “supporting its regional community through effective multidisciplinary care, including two GPs, a midwife, and a nurse,” their commendation stated.
“The team provides bulk-billed services, including home visits and support for women from the early stages of pregnancy to post-partum.
“It has a focus on the emotional and social wellbeing of patients. This especially includes those without family support, single mothers, teen mothers, First Nations women, and people experiencing domestic violence and drug addiction,” the statement concluded.
More than 140 nominations were submitted from every state and territory, which were then assessed by a panel of five independent experts from the primary care sector, including a consumer representative.
The centre was ecstatic at their nom-
in members.
One of their main activities is the preloved book fair in the Western Gallery which is open Thursday to Saturday 10am to 2pm with many hundreds of different books available, most only a gold coin.
A reminder that the next meeting will be 11 th November, at the new time of 4.30 in the Private Room of the Wellington Soldiers Club. New members welcomed, just turn up or contact John (the President) 0414880644.
ination. “Our antenatal clinic is so very humbled to be named a finalist in the Stronger Medicare Awards,” a spokesperson said. “All the staff in our clinic love working closely with our pregnant patients and their families,” they added.
The staff, the spokesperson added, are all committed to continuing care for families, form the youngest, to adulthood.
“We especially love meeting the babies (and getting lots of cuddles) on their arrival and then watching them grow up and return to the clinic to have their own children.
“We hope that this recognition highlights the importance of rural medicine and how diverse and fulfilling the work is,” the spokesperson concluded.
The eight New South Wales finalists have been recognised for their significant contributions, including their work with vaccination and respiratory care during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing access to care for disadvantaged communities and people experiencing homelessness.
The finalists will be celebrated with the Medicare Champions announced at the Stronger Medicare Awards ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra on Monday, November 4, with Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler saying: “These finalists are some of the many people and practices work-
Thumbs up to Ross at Macintosh Mechanical, for his cracking personality and excellent customer service.
Thumbs up to the team at Dollars and Sense on Macquarie Street for being consistently friendly and helpful.
Thumbs up to Sushi Haru at Dubbo Square and Orana Mall, hands down best Sushi in town.
Thumbs up to The Amaroo Hotel Dishtro, we always enjoy your great lunch time specials.
Thumbs up to Tones and I, and the Rubens for touring regional venues. Great to see Dubbo on the list.
Send your Thumbs Up via email to photos@dubbophotonews. com.au, mail to Level 1, 178 Macquarie Street Dubbo NSW 2830, or phone
Make healthy school lunch fun!
Cherry tomatoes + bottom of a capsicum = “Dragon’s Nest”
PHOTO: BRETT PHILLIPS
By DAVID DIXON
GETTING down and in the dirt, is a wonderful way for our kids to learn about the natural world.
On this theme, children across Dubbo Region who are interested in sustainability and the environment, are now able to take part in the “Get Grubby” education program at home.
This innovative online service is designed for young families and children with topics including “Get Water Wise”, “Get Energy Wise”, “Get Funky Composting”, “Get into Recycling”, and “Get Growing”.
Dubbo Mayor, Councillor Josh Black, said that environmental sustainability is an important topic for Council.
If you have a story, event or news item, call us on 6885 4433 or email editor@ dubbophotonews.com.au
“This program makes it easy for families across the LGA to learn together, by providing them with some great ideas, tips and initiatives, while also letting their children get a bit grubby,” Cr Black said.
“One of Council’s key objectives is for waste management processes to reduce our environmental footprint and impact on the environ-
ment, and by subsidising the cost of this program for families in our community to take part in, this is another way Council is able to assist in this area,” he added.
Council’s Resource Recovery Education Officer, Hamish Campbell, said the launch of the home program follows a visit by Michael Balk — known to kids Australia-wide as “Scrapboy” — to the region to announce Insight Early Learning Southlakes as the winners of the Get Grubby Program Early Learning Centre users’ competition.
“In the past 12 months it’s been great to support 33 childcare centres and schools across the LGA with this program,” Mr Campbell said.
“We were excited to hear the children of Insight Early Learning Southlakes had won this competition,” he added.
The at-home program has now been launched just in time for the warmer weather.
“We’ve heard how much the children love being out in nature and in the environment, which makes the Get Grubby Program a great resource to teach children about
protecting and nurturing the area around them.
“It also teaches them the importance of sustainability and deepens their connections with our planet,” Mr Campbell said.
The Get Grubby home program,
normally valued at $100, is now available for anyone living in the DRC Local Government Area and is supported by Dubbo Council and has been in place in schools and early learning centres within the LGA for the past 12 months.
VOLUNTEERING is far from dead, but it can certainly do with all the support that it is due. And that’s where Dubbo Day Awards come in!
If you know a great volunteer in the region, now’s the time to nominate them for a Dubbo Day Awards, which recognises all of the amazing volunteers in our community, with Mayor Cr Josh Black encouraging
community members to put a name forward.
“The 2021 Census shows that 16 per cent of residents in Dubbo volunteer, slightly higher than the 13 per cent in NSW and 14 per cent in Australia,” Cr Black said.
“With that many people in our community volunteering their time in one way or another, we look forward to reading
through all the nominations highlighting the work that these people do for our community,” he added.
The Dubbo Day Awards are held to mark the anniversary of Dubbo’s gazettal as a village on November 23, 1849, Cr Black explained.
“It is important each year to recognise the significant contribution volunteers make in our com-
munity, from volunteers within sporting groups, or cultural organisations, or the arts community.
“These people provide their time and skills freely to benefit our local community and enrich the lives of others, we really encourage people to look at the organisations and groups they belong to and submit their nominations,” he concluded.
Award recipients are selected from the nominees by a committee of community members which include past winners.
Nominations are now open and will close on Wednesday, November 6, with this year’s Dubbo Day Awards Ceremony being held on Thursday, November 21, at Dubbo Regional Theatre and Convention Centre.
The opportunity to secure an advertisement in the next Dubbo Region Visitor Guide will close on Friday 15 November.
See your business in print and digital formats of the guide over 18 months.
If you want to showcase your business to the 1.3 million annual visitors that come to the region, contact marketing@dubbo.nsw.gov.au or visit www.dubbo.nsw.gov.au/dpp
What would you like to see in a Multicultural Garden in Elizabeth Park?
A plan is being developed to create a precinct that identifies and celebrates the multicultural diversity of the Dubbo Region.
Two concepts are now on exhibition and the community are invited to have their say. See the concept plans at yoursay.dubbo.nsw.gov.au
Dubbo Regional Council is seeking community feedback to influence key focus areas for the Delivery Plan for 2025–2029. There will be various community engagement sessions across the region for people to attend from 30 October 2024, to share their thought and help shape the direction of the next four years.
Visit yoursay.dubbo.nsw.gov.au for details on sessions.
Bring the little ones to our free, early-learning program for two to five year olds at the Western Plains Cultural Centre.
Minimakers is every Wednesday and Thursday from 10am-11am during school terms. Have fun doing crafts and introduce your child to the wonders of museums and galleries!
For more information visit westernplainsculturalcentre.org
Photos by KEN SMITH
The family & friends of Garry Braithwaite held a surprise 90th birthday celebration at the Rhino Lodge, travellers were Garry’s sister Faith & husband Roly from Redland Bay QLD, Max & Freda Keech and their two daughters Fiona & Natalie and their husbands from Banora Point, Newcastle, Goulburn and Dubbo.
Garry was joined by his four daughters Sharon, Kate, Jane and Melissa and their husbands, children and great grandchildren.
A number of Dubbo locals joined in the celebrations, brother Ben & Di Braithwaite, treasured nephew Rodney & Sharon Dawson, Wally Flynn a young 93, Jack the wily Irishman, Josh Black, Barry Brebner and relatives of Garry deceased wife Valerie, Claire & John Davis and Noreen & Jenny.
Garry has dedicated his life to his Dubbo community and has provided a huge amount of volunteer hours to make things better in the city he loves.
Garry has travelled to Africa, Arusha Tanzania to volunteer his building and community skills at St Jude’s in providing resources to fight poverty by education he repaired and repurposed bicycles for as a means of transportation.
As many would know well, there are too many projects to mention other than to say that Gary works and promotes the beauty of visiting Dubbo.
Masterbuilt by the owner 21 years ago, this home is set on 11 acres, an easy 20 minutes from Dubbo or 10 minutes from Wellington.
Being offered for the first time, this immaculate home has been lived and loved by the current family and now it’s time to move on and allow another the opportunity to enjoy the lifestyle this home offers!
For those that love to entertain, you will be simply amazed by the stunning kitchen with an enormous amount of bench space, storage and a pantry that must be seen to be believed! This is the true heart of the home and features beautiful Caesar stone benchtops, 900m stainless steel oven, practical tiled floors and this adjoins a generous sized dining area.
Effective property marketing can greatly enhance your sales campaign and attract the right buyers. Here’s why investing in quality marketing is worthwhile:
1. General Marketing: Basic marketing includes listing on real estate portals, signboards, and agent websites. Emails to the agent’s buyer database also inform potential buyers.
2. Home Staging: Professional home staging showcases your property’s best features during photography and open homes, appealing to the target audience.
3. Premium Photography: Techniques like twilight, drone photography, and videography create captivating visuals that set your property apart.
4. Floor Plans: Detailed floor plans help buyers virtually navigate your property, understanding layout and size.
5. Feature Portal Advertising: Premium portal features ensure your property stands out, grabbing attention during potential buyer searches.
6. Print Media: While online dominates, print media still plays a role in drawing attention to properties. Newspaper ads and profiles can create additional exposure.
7. Targeted Facebook Advertising: Social media’s targeted ads can focus on potential buyers interested in your area, maximising exposure. The value lies in reaching the right audience effectively. These techniques showcase your property’s uniqueness, generating interest, competition, and potentially leading to quicker, higher-value sales. Speak with your agent to evaluate the best options for your property.
If you are considering selling, contact Karen Chant on mobile 0448 191167 or email karen@chantandco.com.au
0448 191 167
With forecasts of a hot summer and above-average storm outbreaks and rainfall averages for the Dubbo region over the coming season, home-owners are being urged to look upwards.
This is because wet weather increasingly weighs heavily on Australian homes with more than two in five having experienced water leaks from wild weather, NRMA Insurance has revealed.
New research from the group found that heavy rainfall is taking a heavy toll on homes across the state, with 45 per cent of NSW residents having experienced a wild weather water leak in their home.
Despite this worrying trend, 59 per cent of NSW residents have not checked the condition of their roof in the past year, and 11 per cent have never done so.
The latest edition of the NRMA Insurance Wild Weather Tracker highlights the damage caused by wild weather over winter, with 3306 claims received across NSW due to severe weather and 5771 nationally.
With a heightened storm and hail risk this spring, NRMA Insurance is urging homeowners to not save severe weather preparation for a rainy day and to act now to check their roof and gutters.
Further new consumer research of 1114 NSW
residents has found:
45 per cent of NSW residents have experienced water leaks from wild weather
For almost one in four (24 per cent) this has occurred more than once
Over half (51 per cent) of residents have experienced rain that caused their gutters to over flow
Despite this, just two in five NSW residents have checked the condition of their roof in the past 12 months, and more than one third (34 per cent) haven’t checked their roof’s condition within the past two years.
59 per cent have not checked the condition of their roof in the past year – and 11 per cent have never done so.
21 per cent have never cleared debris from their gutters to help them to prepare and protect their property from wild weather.
Just 32 per cent of NSW residents took steps to prepare their homes for extreme weather this past winter.
73 per cent of residents are worried that natural disasters such as severe storms, floods and bushfires are becoming more frequent and severe
The NRMA Insurance Wild Weather Tracker monitors severe weather claims across NSW, Queensland, the ACT, South Australia, Western Australia, the Northern Territory and Tasmania and is released after every season to encourage people to take regular steps to protect their homes, properties, vehicles and communities. The research of 3500 people nationally was conducted online on behalf of NRMA Insurance by Pureprofile in August 2024.
Limited Time Only on selected homes when you purchase before 31st October 2024
Live life at Southlakes Estate, become part of a well connected master planned neighbourhood located moments from the CBD and local amenity offering a unique blend of urban convenience and rural charm.
Simplicity of Style, Space & Elegance - Stroll to Golf Club
Discover a home where timeless elegance meets modern convenience, nestled within a coveted golf course neighbourhood. Renovated to perfection, this Cape Cod residence offers an exceptional lifestyle with light-filled living spaces and versatile room configurations, including a ground-floor master suite and upstairs king sized bedroom that could easily double as a second living area if required. Enjoy tranquil mornings on the covered verandah, overlooking lush, private gardens, or wander to the Golf Club for an afternoon drink or dinner and watch the world go by on the serene fairways.
How old are you? 5
What are you good at? Playing with toys and footy
What type of food do you love the most? Ice-Cream
What makes you laugh? My Mum when she tells knock knock jokes Who is your favourite character from a book? Three Little Pigs Who’s the boss in your family? Me!
Which zoo animal would you like to have as a pet? Rhino
What would you like to be when you grow up? A brother
ANGELA happy 13th birthday for October 19! Love Mum and Dad and all your family!
DANIEL
KOA
Happy 6th birthday Koa for 22nd October, love Nannie & Poppy. xx
KNOW A BIRTHDAY CHILD THIS MONTH?
Send in a photo, details and a short birthday wish. myentry@dubbophotonews.com.au Entries must be in by 5pm Friday the week before.
Happy 11th birthday Daniel, for 19 October! u ek before. tured her ? a Mall has a to Koa ve
Is your photo featured here? Donut King Orana Mall has a FREE kids doughnut to help you celebrate! Bring your copy of Dubbo Photo News to claim your Birthday gift. ws
1 Sudden divergence (7)
Tempting (9)
Coronet (5)
25 Traduce (6)
Circular (5)
Evening entertainment (9)
Go before (7)
1 Rough struggle (6)
Naturist (6)
Abstained from (8)
Slender shoot (4) 5 Avoidance (10)
Disgust (6) 7 Solitary (8) 8 Rubbish (8)
Forethought (10) 16 Move faster and then overtake (8) 17 Water is one (8)
Fussy (8)
Dillydally (6)
instance (6)
each number from
to 9 in the shaded squares to solve all the horizontal and vertical equations. Multiplication and division are performed before addition and subtraction.
By Lana Eather
2.
3. Which country is smaller, San Marino or Nauru?
4. Who created the TV series Gilmore Girls?
5. David Caruso (pictured) played which character in the CSI franchise?
6. How many times has the
eruption?
10. Khartoum is the capital of which African country?
TIP OF THE WEEK
ARIES: Negotiations always require effort and c ompromise. You’ll make some significant changes that will promote your health and improve your quality of life for years to come.
TAURUS: Significant success and recognition await you, whether in the form of a promotion or a professional change. You’ll also have a health win after a difficult period.
GEMINI: You may have the opportunity to f ind a more spacious property for your family this week. You must make changes to your daily routine to become more efficient, which will prevent conflicts among your family members.
by JoAnn Derson
If you have magazines or books that you are finished reading, perhaps you’d consider donating them to local retirement and care villages. Do some quick research to see if there are any near you. Often, the seniors are grateful to have new reading material. – contributed by T.C.
CANCER: Don’t forget to charge your electronic dev ices every night to avoid communication mishaps from a dead battery. Expect to play taxi driver for your family this week.
LEO: Your honesty will shine this week as you op enly express what others are thinking. You won’t hesitate to point out your partner’s excessive spending or impulse buys.
VIRGO: You’ll feel great this week! You must s wiftly handle an urgent situation at work to avoid complications. You’ll be promoted, and despite the changes and stress associated with this change, you’ll be happy.
LIBRA: You’ll soon finish a task you’ve been putting o ff. To avoid health issues, take some time to rest before taking on new challenges.
SCORPIO: Waiting for medical test results for y ourself or a loved one will be stressful. However, you’ll receive a positive response, which will help alleviate your worries. The prospect of a bright future will dispel anxiety and allow you to sleep peacefully.
SAGITTARIUS: Tread carefully when dealing with f amily or professional matters. You may need to adjust your schedule to accommodate a promotion. The pay and nature of the work will make your decision easy.
It’s time to start thinking about your end- of-year holidays! Booking things in advance, regardless of whether you’re going alone or with family, friends or a significant other, will make things easier and avoid complications.
this
AQUARIUS: You may be responsible for international assignments or training at work. You might find it challenging to communicate with people who aren’t comfortable speaking English.
PISCES: You must communicate openly with your p artner to reignite the spark in your relationship. You’ll need to make some adjustments to avoid emotional conflicts.
ADRA Community Food Pantry: Will be open Friday 18 October - 10:30am-12:00pm. Black basket $25 Red basket $13. Mini Op Shop also open. Corner Sterling and Cobra Streets. Cash and card available.
Croquet: 8.15am for 8:30am start, Tuesday, Thursday. Croquet courts, Brisbane St, North Dubbo. Kate 0409 927 140, Lillian 0429 471 921
Dubbo View Club: Cards and games, Dubbo RSL Club 1pm Friday October 18. For more information contact Shirley on 0427822874. Dubbo View Club:Lunch, 11am Monday October 21, Dubbo RSL Club, bookings and cancellations by 10am Friday,October 18. Phone Beth on 0431 290 274. New members and guests are welcome.
Dementia Sing Out Choir: Weekly 11am12.30pm, Generosity Church 51 Sheraton Road Dubbo. Contact Anne Gemmell 0481396404. Dubbo Community Men’s Shed Inc: Mondays, 9am to 1pm and Thu/Sat 1pm to 5pm. Small joining fee after three visits. “All men are welcome.” Kevin 0427 253 445
Let’s Walk together: 10am Thursdays weekly meet at Regand Park near the Walkway Bride. Everyone is welcome. Supported by the Heart Foundation. Contact Jimmy at Connecting Community Services 1800 319 551. Parkrun - Dubbo: 8am every week, FREE timed (with barcode), 5km run, jog or walk, starts at Sandy Beach, dogs, prams are welcome. Email dubbohelpers@parkrun.com to help!
Wellington Lions Preloved Book Fair: Wellington Lions Preloved Book Fair Thursday to Saturday 10am to 2pm, Western Gallery, corner Swift St and Mitchell Highway, Wellington. Preloved books, Jigsaw puzzles, Cds, Dvds and now board games with the money raised going to Charities that Club members choose.
Women’s Wellbeing Walking Group: 10am Tuesdays fortnightly meeting at Victoria Park BBQ area. 22nd Oct, 5th Nov, 19th Nov. Women of all ages are welcome. Kathryn at Connecting Community Services 1800 319 551.
CPSA Dubbo Branch: All members are reminded that the next meeting will be held on Friday 8th November 11am at Dubbo RSL. Morning tea. All welcome, contact Barb 0427251121
Dubbo District Concert Band: Join the Dubbo District Concert Band on Sunday, November 17 for an afternoon of musical magic with their end of year concert to be held in the Dubbo RSL Auditorium. Doors open at 1:30pm, showtime 2pm. Entry is $5 at the door.
Ladies luncheon: will meet at 12 noon on Saturday 2nd of November at the R.S.D.F Airport Restaurant Western Highway Dubbo Ring Bev at 68845401 by Thursday 31st of October if interested.
Michael Egan Memorial Book Fair: Collection Day for pre-loved books for Michael Egan Memorial Book Fair on Saturday October 26. Please bring books in good condition to Custom Steel Frames carpark, 110 Fitzroy St, between 9am and 2pm.
Dubbo West Rotary project to raise funds for cancer charities.
Talbragar CWA: next meeting will be held on Saturday November 2 commencing at 2pm in the CWA Hall 45L Boothenba Road, Dubbo.Members are reminded that toys for the Christmas competition are required at this meeting. More information please call Ronda
on 68885231 or 0419275223
THURSDAY
Above Board Gamers: SECOND and FOURTH
Thursday of the month, 6pm, Devil’s Hollow Brewery. Alan 0432 278 235
Akela Playgroup: 9.30am, Scout Hall, 4 Akela St., Sharna 0438 693 789
Badminton: 7.30pm-9.30pm, Delroy High School Auditorium, East Street, West Dubbo, $5 to play, $22 insurance ($20, school students). Chris 6887 3413
Bingo - South Dubbo Veteran’s & Community Men’s Shed: 11am-12.30pm, West Dubbo Bowling Club. Barry 0439 344 349 Coffee, Craft and Chat: 9.30am-12pm, Gospel Hall, Cnr of Boundary Road and Taylor St. Anne 0428 425 958
Croquet: 8.15am for 8:30am start, Tuesday, Thursday. Croquet courts, Brisbane St, North Dubbo. Kate 0409 927 140, Lillian 0429 471 921 CWA Dubbo: FIRST Thursday of the month, 9.30am to 11am, Oaktree Retirement Village Peel Street, Dubbo. Marion 6884 2957
CWA Wongarbon Handicraft: SECOND Thursday of the month, Liz 0401 174 883. CWA Wongarbon: FIRST Thursday of the month, 10am, Wongarbon CWA rooms. Marjorie 6884 5558
Dubbo Anglican Church Trinity Kids
Playgroup: 10am-12pm, Anglican Church Hall, 158 Brisbane St., during School terms. Contact 6884 4990
Dubbo Community Men’s Shed Inc: Mondays 9am to 1pm and Thu/Sat 1pm to 5pm. Small joining fee after three visits. All men are welcome, Kevin 0427 253 445 Dubbo RSL Day Club: 10am and 2pm, Orana Gardens
Family History Society (Dubbo & District): 1pm to 4pm, volunteers on site during these hours, Western Plains Cultural Centre Community Arts Centre, Cnr Wingewarra and Gipps St Heart Support Walking Group: 12.30pm, (also Tuesdays), Ollie Robbins Oval, Cnr of Bligh Street. Supports gentle exercise promoting healthy hearts, Ray 0437 541 942
Let’s Walk together: 10am Thursdays weekly meet at Regand Park near the Walkway Bridge. Everyone is welcome. Supported by the Heart Foundation. Contact Jimmy at Connecting Community Services 1800 319 551.
Line Dancing: 9.30am to 12 noon, Greek Hall, corner Gipps and Roper Street, Dubbo. Kathy 6888 5287 or Lynn 6888 5263.
Macquarie Masons Dubbo: SECOND Thursday of the month. All visitors are welcome, John O’Brien 0405 051 896. Outback Dragons Dubbo: 5.45pm (in summer), Sandy Beach amenities block. Come and try dragon boating, your first five paddles are Free. info@outbackdragons.com.au, Robyn 0427462504
Wellington Arts and Crafts: 10am-3pm, Small Hall in the Anglican Church grounds, Wellington, variety of crafts, activities and workshops offered. Lynne 6845 4454
Wellington Lions Preloved Book Fair: Wellington Lions Preloved Book Fair Thursday to Saturday 10am to 2pm, Western Gallery, corner Swift St and Mitchell Highway, Wellington. Preloved books, Jigsaw puzzles, Cds, Dvds and now board games with the money raised going to Charities that Club members choose.
FRIDAY
Send your community event info to diary@dubbophotonews.com.au or phone 6885 4433
Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings: 7pm (1.5hrs) - ID meeting, Dubbo Community Health, Palmer Street, Dubbo. Contact Dee 0417 422 750, 1300 222 222 or www.aa.org.au.
Central West Makers Place: 12pm-6pm, South Dubbo Veterans and Community Men’s Shed, Cnr Palmer and High Streets. 3D printing, robotics, pottery, and more. Adam 0431 038 866. Communion Service (Dubbo Anglican Church): 10am, Brotherhood House chapel, 158 Brisbane St.
Community Kitchen: FIRST Friday of the month, 6.30pm, Holy Trinity Hall, Brisbane St, free meal.
CPSA (Combined Pensioners and Superannuants Association): SECOND Friday each month, 10am, Dubbo RSL Club. Discuss issues, guest speaker. Further Information Barb 0427251121
Dubbo Nepalese Christian Fellowship: 6.30-8pm. Cyrel on 0416 826 701 or Kabita 0452 406 234.
Dubbo Parkinson’s Support Group: FIRST Friday of each month, 10.30am, Horizons village, Minore Road, Dubbo. Jim Jupp, 0438414888. Lunchtime Prayer Group - Dubbo Anglican Church: 1-2pm in Brotherhood House, 158 Brisbane Street. Bring your lunch
Narromine Food Barn: 9am-11am, Low-cost groceries and FREE fruit, vegetables and bread with any purchase to people in need. Ken Rumble on 0414 477 365
Spinning and Weaving: 10am, at Dubbo Arts and Craft Cottage, 137 Cobra Street. Anne 0408 891 225
Tai Chi at U3A: 10am, at the Community Arts Centre, Western Plains Cultural Centre, 76 Wingewarra Street. Richard 6888 5656
Urban Tribe: 2pm, with dancing, music, singing, caring and sharing. 0459 762 702
Wellington Lions Preloved Book Fair: Wellington Lions Preloved Book Fair Thursday to Saturday 10am to 2pm, Western Gallery, corner Swift St and Mitchell Highway, Wellington. Preloved books, Jigsaw puzzles, Cds, Dvds and now board games with the money raised going to Charities that Club members choose.
Western Plains Trefoil Guild: SECOND Friday of each month, 10.30am, Dubbo West Guide Hall. Please confirm the meeting will be on. Dorothy 6884 6646
Beekeepers Inc - Orana: SECOND Saturday of the month, 9.15am, Narromine Tennis Club rooms, unless other arrangements are made. orana.secretary@beekeepers.asn.au
Bridge Club - Dubbo: 1pm until approximately 4.30pm, Bultje Street. $7 members, $9 non-members. Libby 0428 254 324.
Croquet: 8.15am, Muller Park Tennis and Croquet courts, Brisbane St, North Dubbo. New players of all ages are welcome. Tricia 0428 876 204 or Margaret 0427 018 946.
CWA Gilgandra Market: FIRST Saturday of the month, 9am-1pm, Cakes, fruit, pickles, plants and more! New stall holders are welcome. $5 per table, proceeds to CWA. Contact Hilda 0427471270. Dubbo Anglican Church Vigil Communion Service: 6pm, 158 Brisbane Street. Contact 6884 4990
Dubbo Bridge Club: 1pm, Bultje Street (Tennis Courts), Dubbo. $7 members, $9 non-members. Libby 0428 254 324
Dubbo Community Men’s Shed Inc: Mondays, 9am to 1pm and Thu/Sat 1pm to 5pm. Small joining fee after three visits. “All men are
welcome.” Kevin 0427 253 445
24-30, 2024 Dubbo
Diary entries need to be 40 words or less, and are only for not-for-profit community groups . Placement will be at the editor’s discretion and subject to space availability – because Diary listings are free! Please include your daytime phone number and/or address when submitting details. Entries close 10am Tuesday for that Thursday’s edition.
Dubbo Slot Car Racing Club: FIRST and THIRD Saturday of the month, 4pm, Seniors (15+), old Scouts Building, 189-191 Talbragar Street, across from Aldi. Terry 0408 260 965. Embroiderers - Dubbo: 10:00am- 3:00 pm (also see Tuesday listing) All are welcome Macquarie Regional Library Contact Patricia 0439846400
Family History Society (Dubbo & District): 10am to 1pm, volunteers on site during these hours, Western Plains Cultural Centre Community Arts Centre, Cnr Wingewarra and Gipps St. Ladies Luncheon: Will be held Saturday September 7, 12 noon at the Zambrero. 177 Macquarie Street Dubbo. Contact Bev on 68845401 by September 5, if interested. Orana Writers’ Hub: 1st Saturday of the month 10-1. Music Room WPCC Patchwork and Quilters Group: 9am, SECOND and LAST Saturday of the month, Dubbo Pipe Band Hall, Cnr Darling and Wingewarra Sts. Charlene on 0408 825 180 Parkrun - Dubbo: 8am every week, FREE timed (with barcode), 5km run, jog or walk, starts at Sandy Beach, dogs, prams are welcome. Email dubbohelpers@parkrun.com to help!
RSL Tennis Club: 12.30pm, Paramount Tennis Club courts for enjoyable social tennis. All welcome 0437824743
Saturday Art: 10am, at Dubbo Arts and Crafts Society Cottage, 137 Cobra St. Pam 6885 1918. Seventh-day Adventist Church Bible Study: 9.30am, Sabbath School and children’s/ youth Sabbath School, 11am, Divine Service. Cnr Cobra and Sterling Sts. dubbo.adventist.org.au
Talbragar CWA: Monthly meetings are held on the first Saturday of each month from March to December they commencing at 2pm each month but December at 11am. More information is available from Ronda on 68885231 or 0419275223.
Transition Dubbo Food + Film Night: For information about future events, contact to Peter 0439 091 767
Wellington Lions Preloved Book Fair: Wellington Lions Preloved Book Fair Thursday to Saturday 10am to 2pm, Western Gallery, corner Swift St and Mitchell Highway, Wellington. Preloved books, Jigsaw puzzles, Cds, Dvds and now board games with the money raised going to Charities that Club members choose.
Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings (Steps and Traditions): 7pm (1.5hrs), ‘Steps and Traditions’ meeting, Dubbo Community Health, Palmer St. Jack 0418 605 041, Sally 0427 829 807, 1300 222 222 or www.aa.org.au
Australian Kite Flyers Society: SECOND Sunday of the month, 10am, Jubilee Oval. See how to build and fly modern (and old) kites. David 0476 223 342
Bicycle User Group Social Ride: 9am, at Wahroonga Park. Mick 0437 136 169 or Sam 0429826076, dubbobug.org.au
Dubbo Acoustic Musicjam (DAMjam): SECOND Sunday of the month, 2pm to 5pm, Milestone Hotel, upstairs. Join acoustic sessions or just listen. Peter 0457 787 143
Dubbo Anglican Church Traditional Communion Service: 8am, 158 Brisbane Street. 6884 4990
Dubbo Anglican Church: 10am, Trinity Kids Sunday School and family Communion service. Dubbo Baptist Church: 6pm, at 251 Cobra Street (next to Spotlight), during school terms.
Come along and discover if church is still relevant in today’s world. Everyone is welcome. 6884 2320
Dubbo Baptist Church: 9.30am, 251 Cobra Street (next to Spotlight). Everyone is welcome. 6884 2320
Dubbo Film Society: Film screenings for members and casual members at Dubbo RSL
Theatrette, 1:30pm. Two films, Sundays 25 February, 26 May, 29 Sept, 24 Nov. Refreshments served at intermission. All-day Film Festival, five films, Sunday 28 July commences 9:30am.
Dubbo Pistol Club: 12.30pm, 143L Old Dubbo Road, 6882 0007
Orana K9 Training Club INC: New intake class every 7th Sunday starting 4/2/24..( daylight savings start time 8.45am Eastern Standard time 9.45am ). Orana K9 Training are now training at Pioneer Oval Howard Ave West Dubbo. Contact Reg 0428849877 or Dianne 0429847380. Orana Pistol Club: 9am, Hyandra Lane, Dubbo. Sundays only, 6887 3704
The Write In: An opportunity for writers to sit in writerly companionship, writing. 3rd Sunday of the month. Dubbo library meeting room from 11.30.
Traditional Catholic Latin Mass –Rawsonville: SECOND Sunday of the month, 9am, Rawsonville Soldier’s Memorial Hall, Rawsonville Road. 0429 920 842
Transcendental Meditation (TM): Free introductory talks via www.tm.org.au. Maharishi Foundation Australia scientifically proven benefits of TM. Contact David 0424 252 834
MONDAY
Alcoholics Anonymous (Daily Reflections Meeting): 12pm (1.5hrs), ‘Daily Reflections’. St Brigid’s Catholic Church, 198 Brisbane St. Jack 0418 605 041/Sally 0427 829 807, 1300 222 222 or www.aa.org.au Amnesty International Dubbo: SECOND Monday of the month, 5.30pm-6.30pm, St Brigid’s meeting room. Contact Sandra Lindeman amnesty.dubbo@gmail.com or 0419 167 574. Anglican Women’s Association: 5.30pm, at Holy Trinity. Dorothy 6884 4990.
Australian Air Force Cadets 313 “City of Dubbo” Squadron: 6pm-9.30pm, Army Barracks (Cnr Kokoda Pl and Wingewarra St). NOW recruiting, 13 to 18 years, rewarding activities.
Dubbo Bridge Club: FOURTH Monday of the month, 10am-1pm, Bultje Street. $7 members, $9 non-members. Libby 0428 254 324.
Dubbo City Physical Culture Club: 4.30pm start, Wesley Community Hall, 66 Church St. Fun, affordable dance for girls/ladies, 4yrs and up, all fitness levels. dubbocityphysie@live.com.au
Dubbo Community Men’s Shed Inc: Mondays, 9am to 1pm and Thu/Sat 1pm to 5pm. Small joining fee after three visits. “All men are welcome.” Kevin 0427 253 445.
Dubbo Multicultural Women’s Group: THIRD Monday of the month, 10am, St Brigid’s Meeting Room in Brisbane Street. Women of all backgrounds are invited. 1800 319 551. Narromine Community Women’s Shed: 10am -3pm, (also Wednesdays), The Wesley Centre, 138 Dandaloo Street, Narromine. Leona 0487 200 987
Patchwork: 10am-3pm, at Dubbo Arts & Craft Cottage, 137 Cobra St, June 6882 4677.
RFDS Dubbo Support Group monthly meetings: FIRST Monday of the month, RFDS Visitor Experience, 5pm, 21 Judy Jakins Drive, Dubbo Airport. Jeanette Hamilton 0429 673 366. Rotary Club of Dubbo: 6pm-8pm, Westside
Hotel, Whylandra Street, West Dubbo. Contact Lyn Wicks, 0428 342 374, Carla Pittman, 0418 294 438 or dubborotaryclub@hotmail.com
Sing Australia Dubbo Choir: 6pm-8pm, Bridge Club, Bultje Street. NO auditions, no requirements to read music and no singing experience necessary. Contact Michele Peak 0428 680 775.
Tai Chi 10 Form: 2.30pm-3.30pm during school terms at U3A, Community Arts Centre, WPCC, 76 Wingewarra St.. Laney 6882 4680 or laneyluk@ gmail.com.
TUESDAY
Aboriginal Elders Walkabout Ministry Group: 9.30am - 2pm in Holy Trinity Church Hall, 158 Brisbane Street Croquet: 8.15am for 8:30am start, Tuesday, Thursday. Croquet courts, Brisbane St, North Dubbo. Kate 0409 927 140, Lillian 0429 471 921 Dementia Sing Out Choir: Weekly 11am12.30pm, Generosity Church 51 Sheraton Road Dubbo. Contact Anne Gemmell 0481396404. Depression Recovery Group: 10.30am, at the Catholic Parish Meeting Room, Brisbane St. Norm 6882 6081 or Sandra 0432 647 877
Dubbo City Physical Culture Club: 5pm start, Holy Trinity Hall, Brisbane Street, Dubbo. Fun, affordable dance for girls/ladies, 4yrs and up, all fitness levels. dubbocityphysie@live.com.au
Dubbo Chess Club: 7pm-9pm, at Dubbo RSL. Juniors welcome. Don 0431 460 584 or Sandy 0408 200 564
Dubbo City Ladies Probus Club: Meet on the second Tuesday of each month in the Masonic Village Hall, Darby Close at 10am contact Marie Francis 0408845640. Dubbo Embroiderers: 9:30am- 3:00pm SECOND and FOURTH Tuesday of the month (also see Saturday listing) Dubbo Bridge Club, Elston Park, Bultje St Dubbo. All are welcome. Contact Patricia 0439846400
Dubbo Lions Club Inc: FIRST and THIRD Tuesday of the month, 6.30pm, Club Dubbo. PO Box 285 Dubbo, Lois on 0428288325 or dubbolionsinc@gmail.com.
Dubbo Men’s Probus: FIRST Tuesday of every month, 11am, Masonic Hall, Bob Ellis 0428217752 Dubbo Prostate Support Group: For information about future meetings, Elizabeth 0408 682 968
Dubbo RSL Euchre Club: 7pm, for 7.30pm, Dubbo RSL, Glen 0419 179 985 or Doreen 6882 6163
Family History Society (Dubbo & District): 1pm to 4pm, Cnr Wingewarra & Gipps Sts, Western Plains Cultural Centre, Community Arts Centre.
Girls Brigade: During school term, 6pm to 8pm, Orana Baptist Church, 4 Palmer St. For all school aged girls. Enjoy crafts, games, camps, stories, songs, cooking and much more. Julie 0428 821 829
Heart Support Walking Group: 12.30pm, (also Thursday), Ollie Robbins Oval, Cnr of Bligh Street. Supports gentle exercise promoting healthy hearts, contact Ray 0437 541 942 Orana Physical Culture: 4pm onwards, starts with 2-4 years Sparkles class, Auditorium at St Mary’s Primary School. See the Orana Physical Culture Facebook page Rotary Club of Dubbo Macquarie: 12.30pm - 2pm, Westside Hotel, contact Peter McInnes 0417 140 149 Rotary Club of Dubbo South: 6pm, at South Dubbo Tavern Silver Craft: THIRD Tuesday of the month,
10am, at Dubbo Arts and Crafts Society Cottage, 137 Cobra St. Julie 6884 4919
Smart Recovery (Behaviour Change Support Group): 5pm, online or in person. Rob on 0417 497 187
Spinning Group: Every third Tuesday 10am -4pm Dubbo Art and Craft Cottage, 137 Cobra Street. Contact Julie 0418 976 663
South Dubbo Veteran’s & Community Men’s Shed: 9am-12pm, Cnr of High and Palmer Streets. New members welcome
Reach Out & Discussion Group for people with Eating Disorders Expressions of Interest: Tuesdays. Venue TBA. Ph: 0455255137 after midday to express interest.
Toastmasters Club: FIRST and THIRD Tuesday of the month, 7pm-9pm, Dubbo RSL Club, Brisbane St., Sharon Allan 0408 156 015 or email sallan@rhdubbo.com.au
Women’s Wellbeing Walking Group: 10am Tuesdays fortnightly meeting at Victoria Park BBQ area. 22nd Oct, 5th Nov, 19th Nov. Women of all ages welcome. Kathryn at Connecting Community Services 1800 319 551.
WEDNESDAY
Akela Playgroup: (also see Thursday listing), 10.30am, Scout Hall, 4 Akela Street, Sharna 0438 693 789.
Alcoholics Anonymous Dubbo: Meet Wednesday 7pm (1.5hr) – ‘Topic‘ meeting St Brigid’s Catholic Church meeting rooms, 198 Brisbane St, Dubbo Please contact Ian 0447 176 590 Or contact 1300 222 222 or www.aa.org.
au for info on meetings.
Ballroom Dancing: Wednesday
7:30-9:30pm $10. Wesley Hall Cnr of Carrington Avenue & Church Street, Dubbo. Graham Woods 0447 885 603
Blood Cancer Support Group: FIRST
Wednesday of month, 10.30am-12pm, Venue changes each month. Louise or Emma 0412 706 785
Breast Cancer Support Group:
FOURTH Wednesday of every month, 10am, Baptist Church, Palmer Street, Community Health 5853 2545
Bric-a-brac sale, weekly - South Dubbo Veterans and Community Men’s Shed: 10am-12pm, Corner of Palmer and High Streets. Contact Barry on 0439 344 349 Coffee, Craft & Chat: FORTNIGHTLY, 10am-12pm, Gospel Chapel on Boundary Road. Anne 0428 425 958
CWA Dubbo Evening Branch: THIRD Wednesday of the month, 6:00pm, 3 Frith Street. Contact Barb on 0409 159 556.
CWA Narromine: SECOND Wednesday of the month, 5.30pm, USMC. Carolyn 0427747478
CWA Terramungamine: SECOND
Wednesday of the month, 10am, Dubbo RSL Club. Barb 0427 251 121
CWA Wellington Branch: Second Wednesday of Month, 10:30 a.m., Wellington CWA Rooms, Warne St, Wellington. Contact Marion on 0429033836
Dementia Friendship Group: SECOND Wednesday of month, 10:30am, Western Plains Cultural Centre, Creo Cafe, Wingewarra St. Anne Gemmell 0481396404.
Dubbo Arts and Craft Cottage: 10am-4pm, 137 Cobra Street. A large
range of handcrafted gifts made by members available. Contact 6881 6410
Dubbo and District Family History Society event: Linda Barnes will show you how to begin discovering your family history. Four weeks, Wednesdays March 6, 13, 20 and 27. 10.30am to 12.30pm at Community Arts Centre $7.50 per session for DDFHS members, $15 for non-members. To reserve your place phone Linda on 68878284 or email martinandlinda@ gmail.com
Dubbo Bobbin Lacemakers: THIRD Wednesday of the month, 10am-3pm, Arts & Crafts Society Cottage and Craft Shop, 137 Cobra Street. Judy 6882 5776
Dubbo Bridge Club: 9.45am, for 10am-1pm, Bultje Street (Tennis Courts), Dubbo. $7 members, $9 non-members. Libby 0428 254 324
Dubbo Community Garden: 9am12pm, 4 Palmer Street. A time to garden with others, learn more skills and grow friendships. Contact Denise 0433 623 842 or Julie 0428 821 829
Dubbo Electric Vehicle Interest, Owners, Users & Supporters (DEVIOUS) group: FIRST Wednesday of each month, 12:30pm to 1:30pm, Western Plains Cultural Centre café. Chris 0409 321 470
Dubbo Garden Club: 10am, FIRST Wednesday of month, Garden gatherings with morning tea. Contact, President, Annette Storer, 0429 828 882 Dundullimal Dubbo Support Crew Inc: FOURTH Wednesday of month, 10am, Dundullimal Homestead. Support Homestead functions. 6884 9984, dundullimal@nationaltrust.com.au
Gamblers Anonymous: 6pm, Baptist Church, Dubbo. Victor 0407 799 139 Geurie Craft Group: 9am-2pm, Geurie Bowling Club. Everyone is welcome. Contact Colene 0400422335
Line Dancing: 6.30pm to 8:30pm, Greek Hall, corner Gipps and Roper Street, Dubbo. Kathy 6888 5287 or Lynn 6888 5263.
Lodge Allan Stuart 416: SECOND Wednesday of month, Geurie Masonic Centre. Please email secretary@lodgeallanstuart416.org.au
Macquarie Intermediate Band: 6pm, school term, Band Hall, Boundary Rd. 6884 6686/info@macqcon.org.au, Dubbo District Band 0422 194 059 dubboband@gmail.com
Narromine Community Women’s Shed: Mondays and Wednesdays, 10am -3pm, The Wesley Centre, 138 Dandaloo Street, Narromine. Leona 0487 200 987 Survivors Of Suicide Bereavement Group: Wednesdays, by expressions of interest. Please contact 0455 255 137 after midday.
Walter T. Grant Seniors Social Club: 9am-2pm, Scout’s Hall, Welchman Street. $8 per day. BYO lunch. Pre-lunch cards and games, post-lunch bingo. Jan Miller 0418 255 217 West Dubbo Rotary: 6pm, Club Dubbo, Whylandra Street West Dubbo Zumba Kids: 4.15pm, West Dubbo Primary Community Centre. A FUN dynamic class that keeps young bodies active, for kids aged 5 to 12. Gold coin donation per family.
Thank you to those who attended the funeral, made phone calls, sent flowers and offered condolences. Please accept this as our thanks, as a lot of addresses are unknown. From Lola, John, Nick and Family
Thank you for the years we shared, The love you gave, the way you cared. In our hearts, you will always stay. Loved and remembered every day.
Dad, Raemaree, Jason, Kristy, Tom, Chelsea, James, Ness & Harvey
CHEER-LEADING is a serious sport, with our very-own local club, Hype Elite, recently bagging some topshelf results for the first time-ever in Sydney.
The competition involved all three teams from Hype Elite travelling to the Olympic Park at Homebush on Saturday and Sunday, October 12–13, to compete at the AASCF All Star Classic dance-andcheer competition.
All teams participated to a high level across their categories, with the three local sides aged from sixup to adult, battling it out against teams from across NSW.
“It was a very successful day for our club, with all three teams placing in their categories, the clubs
Mini Novice ‘Cubs’ team (girls 6–8 years) was awarded first place, which was a great achievement for our youngest competitors” a spokesperson said.
“This small-but-mighty team ended-up scoring overall third in the competition for novice teams across all age groups – a super effort; Head Coach, Tiana Spears, commented that she couldn’t be prouder of the girls,” the spokesperson added.
The Club’s Junior Level One “Eclipse” team (girls 8–15 years), which had also trained hard all year, put their best stunts and tumbling on show, performing strongly to come in at third place.
In another triumph on the Sunday night, the Open Adults’ “Vixens”
team topped the podium, taking away top-spot in their category, the spokesperson revealed.
“The teams are set to compete again at the ‘Cheercon Best of the Best Competition’ in Sydney at the end of the November.
“We wish the teams all the best for another stellar result!” the spokesperson said.
Hype Elite is currently recruiting across all teams for the new year of competition coming-up, and is also looking for sponsorship for the 2025 season.
“If you are interested in supporting our small cheer-leading club, get in touch for an information package at: hypeelitedubbo@gmail.com,” the spokesperson concluded.
By GEOFF MANN
WITH a total of 48 teams, 480 players, 115 games, and an estimated 1500 players and spectators passing through the gate at Apex Oval, Macquarie United Football Club MUFC has hailed the annual Sixes tournament as a huge success.
This year also featured a new initiative aimed at combatting the epidemic of mental health issues plaguing so many of the young in modern society, First Grade Captain-Coach and chair of the Organising Committee, Jamie Lobb said.
“This year the Event welcomed Pidgeon Football as a proud partner; Pidgeon Football sells footballs to clubs and schools, with the proceeds going towards mental health awareness programs which are targeted to schools
“It is our aim to work with all our members to ensure they have the best in life, both as sports people who need to have physical skills as well as friendships and support for their mind to become the best they can be,” he added.
This year, there were five competitions, with an overall winner and runner-up awarded after playing a round-robin format on the Saturday and a knock-out competition on the Sunday.
Open Men’s Division One
The local side in Wellington, “Nutmegladons”, defeated the Gold Coastbased “Brazilian Nuts” side.
Open Men’s Division Two Dubbo derby with “Womfly FC” defeating “Lawn Pro Lemons”.
Open Women’s Division One
Local side, “Wollombi Wombats” defeated the Sydney-based “Cobra FC”
Open Women’s Division Two “South Dubbo Wanderers Minions” defeated the Sydney-based “Strikers FC”.
Over 35 Men’s “Gunnedah Test Eagles” proved too-strong for last year’s champions, “Short N Curlies” in the final.
Funds raised from the event are yet to be finalised but will be channelled back into resources that can be used in future competitions.
“We are also working on ways to provide incentives for our young players and seniors,” Jamie explained.
“All the hard-work, will be ploughed into them and we, as a club, are developing plans for the future. These funds will provide MUFC with leverage for partnership grants,” he concluded.
MUFC, Dubbo Bulls, and Orana Spurs, all represent Dubbo in the strong Western Premier League.
By GEOFF MANN
DUBBO CYMS Fishies and Macquarie Raiders, have been going at it on the rugby league fields for more than 60 years and, in that time, they have developed some long-term friendships that were forged after the heat of battle.
Dubbo Photo News supports all the sporting groups who get-together for celebrations, and former CYMS second-rower Ray “Zoom Top” Adams, a local policeman in the 1970s, along with ex-teammate, Chris Kelly, have joined forces with Tod O’Dea and the Old Boys to bring long-serving members together this upcoming weekend.
Ray wrote on the Old Boys’ website
“Following recent articles in Dubbo Photo News, and in conjunction with ‘Dubbo CYMS Old Boys’, we invite all former/current players, their families, wives, and partners, to an informal reunion/get-together at Dubbo on (the weekend of) October 25/26/27.
Festivities start on this Friday at the Castlereagh Hotel from 6pm for informal drinks. On Saturday, Octo-
Castlereagh for a 7pm dinner with no special menu, everyone selects and cover your own costs.
On Sunday, October 27 there is breakfast/coffee at the Dubbo Cul-
Zoom Top says this will be a great opportunity for anyone interested to catch-up with former teammates and their families and friends at one or
“All welcome!” he added.
Those attending the Saturday evening meal at the Castlereagh, should contact Tod O’Dea on 0447 865 661 for catering purposes.
When it comes to heavy lifting, there’s nothing like the mateship of a rugby team to get the job done. So when James Cleaver from the Dubbo Kangaroos asked club members to muscle-up in memory of a mate, there was no hesitation.
The ‘Roos, supported by Warrick El-Mahassni owner of strength and conditioning gym The Iron Foundry, bounced out in force for last weekend’s ‘Stronger Than Cancer’ challenge, held to prove that community is stronger than the disease that took the life of their teammate Will Coy, who earlier this month lost a short but brutal battle with cancer after being diagnosed with Burkitt’s Lymphoma just weeks before.
Competitors from both the rugby club and the gym pitted their strength against each other in a number of progressive contests of strength and weightlifting, with bragging rights the prize. Event organiser James Cleaver said it was one way in which the Dubbo Kangaroos Rugby Club could pay trib-
ute to their mate at the same time shine a light on the long shadow cast over our regional community by cancer.
Will – a popular player with the ‘Roos’ third grade and wool classer who worked across western NSW – was only diagnosed in August with the aggressive form of cancer that attacked his liver, lungs, bone marrow and lymph nodes. He died just two months later, losing the fight against the illness on October 3.
During those two months, more than $30,000 was raised to assist Will (whose only sibling also died from cancer aged 12), and his family, with funds now being transferred to his mother Jules to help with funeral and other costs. The Stronger Than Cancer challenge helped raise another $500.
James extended the thanks of the Dubbo Kangaroos Rugby Club to all those who supported the fundraising efforts throughout the past months, and to Warrick El-Mahassni and the team from The Iron Foundry for their generosity.
THERE were some good results from last week’s Social Bowls with scores as follows.
In the Tuesday Ladies Social bowls, a total of 13 players competed on the greens.
Winners were Sue Armstrong and Karen Greenhalgh defeating Kerry Dickson and Therese Gaio.
Runners-Up were Christine Castlehouse, Anne Knaggs and Judy O’Connor defeating Christine Castlehouse, Vicki Hummel and Laurace Lawson.
Third Place had Veronica Morgan and Merrill O’Sullivan defeating Gloria Young and Geraldine Jasprizza.
Lucky Draw Winners were Veronica Morgan and Karen Greenhalgh.
In Wednesday Men’s Social, a total of 31 bowlers turnedout on the synthetics.
Winners were Eric Satchell and Peter Sinclair defeating Dick Whitford and Ross Pharo.
Runners-Up were Alan Parker, Greg Brown and Dennis Jasprizza defeating Ken Whitakker, Chris Strojny and Tod O’Dea.
In Third Place, Trevor Tink
and Doug Aldis defeated Gavin Cullen and Brian Coffey while, in fourth, Ron McCauley, Frank Armstrong and Doug Back defeated Ian Humphries, Peter Knaggs and John Cole
In Fifth, Ron Anderson, Paul Goodstat and Neil Hayburn defeated Paddy O’Dea, Mel Giddings and Col Cottee, while, in sixth place: Leo Balstad, Bryan O’Sullivan and Rob Pfieffer defeated Leo Balstad, Dennis Crimmins and Steve Kelly
The closest game was that for sixth place with the Jackpot of $71 not won.
In Thursday Mixed Bowls, winners were Gaye Cottee and Robbie Cook defeating Chris Strojny and Alex Rae, while, the Runners Up, were Craig Britt, Phil Morrow and Col Cottee defeating Craig Britt, Sophie Rae and Ricco Lane, with the Jackpot of $150 not drawn.
For last Saturday’s Alan Cook Memorial Tournament, a total of 60 players on the greens, on a pleasant sunny day with the winners, Craig Biles, Cooper McMullen and Josh Andriske over Karen Greenhalgh, Merrill O’Sullivan and Judy O’Connor.
In third place, James Forro Forrest, Adam Fardell and Richard Clarke topped Tony Coady, Victor Brooks and Derek Gibbs Saturday Social Bowls now has a new start time of 10am during the warmer months and names must be in by 9.30am. Starting Saturday, October 26, the Jackpot will commence at $300 and will accumulate until won, over the warmer months.
In Notice Board news, the Betty Martin – Pink Day is on Tuesday, November 12 and players are asked to wear something pink with names in by 9am for a 9.30am start. Ladies and Men’s Regional Triples are now closed, so check “Bowlslink” for playing times and teams.
Mid-west Region Pairs and Singles are also up for nomination in Women’s and Men’s divisions with the Club Major Pairs Ladies and Men’s also up for nom.
Sponsor of the Week is Robbie Cook Auto Electrical and Air Conditioning. All photos: Supplied
Federal Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton, presented certificates to three of the athletes who are to receive financial assistance to fulfill their sporting dreams under the Local Sporting Champions program. The athletes are Ethan Waugh of Dubbo, Will Cale of Narromine, and Tully Pickering of Dubbo. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Champions program.
The young sportspeople from Coonabarabran, Dubbo, Gilgandra, Narromine, Condobolin, and Walgett together with those from Broken Hill, Gongolgon, Gunnedah, Narrabri, Ungarie, and Warialda re-
Federal Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton has said.
“From swimming, rugby union, netball, soccer, basketball, and athletics to motorcycling, polocrosse, wushu and flying disc, these talented young athletes each competed at the
Sports Commission, the Local Sporting Champions program provides financial assistance for coaches, officials and competitors aged between 12 and 18 who are participating in state, national or international sporting championships.
Local Sporting Champions Round One 2024/25 recipients in Parkes electorate
Will Cale NarromineMotorcycling2024 KTM Australian Junior Motocross Championship Bunbury, WA
Veniece CooreyBroken HillSwimming2024 Australian Age Championships Southport, QLD
Tully PickeringDubbo BasketballU/16 Foot Locker National ChampionshipsWest Bendigo, VIC
Siarne Davis CoonabarabranAthletics 2024 Australian Track and Field ChampionshipsMile End, SA
Sarah McInerneyGunnedahNetball Netball NSW State Titles Narellan, NSW
Samantha FiechtnerWalgett Netball Hart Junior State Netball Titles North Kellyville, NSW
Ruby Clayton Narrabri Rugby UnionAll Schools Rugby Union 7s Warriewood, NSW
Rowdy LaidlawWarialdaRugby UnionNSW state championship Hunters Hill, NSW
Riley Bond Dubbo Football (soccer)National Youth Championships 2024 Wollongong, NSW
Oli Chandler GilgandraMotorcyclingAustralia Junior Motocross ChampionshipsDavenport, WA
Molly Ramien GunnedahSwimmingSchool Sport Australia Games Swimming Championships Southport, QLD
Lily Henley Ungarie Netball Hart NSW Senior State Netball Titles Minto, NSW
Joshua BrownNarromineRugby UnionNSW State Championships Coff s Harbour, NSW
Jonty Fowler Narrabri Rugby UnionAustralian Schools Rugby ChampionshipsBokarina, QLD
Jett Hope Dubbo Kung Fu - WushuWorld Junior Wushu Championships
Jack Deveson Dubbo MotorcyclingAustralian Junior Motocross ChampionshipsDavenport, WA
Hugh McMullenGongolgonRugby UnionUnder 15s State and Country ChampionshipsLorn, NSW
Hannah Ryan Dubbo PolocrosseAustralian Polocrosse Nationals Chinchilla, QLD
Evie Henley Ungarie Football School Sport Australia U15s Australian Football Championships 2024 Carrara, QLD
Ethan Waugh Dubbo Kung Fu - WushuWorld Junior Wushu Championships
Darcy Pollard Dubbo Rugby UnionJunior Rugby Union State ChampionshipsCoff s Harbour, NSW
Anna-Rose WardCondobolinFlying DiscWorld Junior Ultimate Championships 2024
Amelia FiechtnerWalgett Netball Hart Senior State Netball Titles Narellan, NSW
Alexis WhittonGunnedahSwimming2024 School Sport Australia Swimming Championships Southport, QLD
TWO local lads travelled all the way to Brunei in south-east Asia to proudly represent Australia at the Ninth World Junior Wushu Championships in September.
“Sensei” Ethan Waugh and “Sempai” Jett Hope competed alongside 500 participants from 50 countries and regions in their first appearance at the World Sanda Free Fighting
Championships in the combined competitive Chinese martial art form.
“Special recognition to Sensei Waugh, who earned an impressive equal third place in his division – a remarkable achievement!,” a spokesperson said.
“This event was an incredible learning experience for everyone involved, and they have
made their families, ‘dojos’, and all of Australia proud, well done!” they added.
Credit also went to Kumiau-Ryu Martial Arts for their fundraising support, and also to “Shidoin” Daniel Anderson and “Shidoin” David Peters for the extra training and guidance leading up to the competition for the two.