Santa has confirmed that we’ve all made the Nice List! The Dubbo Photo News extends our heartfelt gratitude to our readers, staff, contributors, and most importantly our advertisers. Your support throughout 2024 has been invaluable. We couldn’t do it without you. Wishing
By DAVID DIXON
WITH the State’s ATAR results being released this week, there’s one local education institution that has been eagerly anticipating their first-ever grades.
Their students, however, are getting their marks a day earlier than everyone else!
The Central West Leadership Academy – with a particular focus on university entry subjects – does not offer the traditional HSC (Higher School Certificate), but instead teaches the European-based International Baccalaureate (IB) course with their results out Tuesday.
The School recently marked the milestone of their first Year 12 when their inaugural IB Cohort held their formal event at the Savannah Room of Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Principal and founder of the Academy Mandi Randell revealed.
“We are incredibly proud of these trailblazers who courageously stepped into uncharted territory as the first IB cohort west of the Blue Mountains,” Ms Randell enthused.
“Their resilience, determination and spirit have set the tone for future students, proving that worldclass education can thrive in regional Australia,” she added Students, she said, took time during the evening to thank their
families and teachers, recognising the critical role they played in their success.
“This event symbolises the remarkable journey of our IB students and paves the way for future cohorts to pursue their dreams with confidence and courage.
“We started in 2018 with Years Three to Six, and this was our first full Kindergarten to Year 12 at the Academy,” she revealed.
The School was also celebrating good grades from its 2024 NAPLAN results, with its Year Nine group seeing the Academy ranked 130th in the State, the highest-performing school west of the Blue Mountains.
“These results showcase the incredible talent within our community and are a testament to what Dubbo can achieve,” Ms Randell said
“They demonstrate the value of a curriculum that combines critical thinking, hands-on challenges, and strong community connections.”.
NAPLAN test results provide information on how students are performing in the areas of literacy and numeracy. The Central West Leadership Academy had the highest number of students in the region that sat “well above” the na-
tion’s average, she said.
The Central West Leadership Academy is Dubbo’s newest 21st Century “skills” school that was conceived on the principle of giving back to the region and closing the achievement gap between city and regional schools.
“The NAPLAN results highlight how the Central West Leadership Academy is cultivating essential skills and achieving outstanding literacy and numeracy outcomes, both nationally and among schools with similar socio-economic profiles,” said Ms Randell.
“Our goal is to empower children to make confident life choices from a position of strength. At the Academy, we emphasise fostering resilience and character with a global perspective while staying deeply-connected to our local community.”
With an expansion for the School from next year, things are only looking up for this oneoff private institution that is neither part of the traditional public school system, nor the churchrun, private school systems.
“We’ve just finished an extension that cost around $4 million, it’s now been completed,” Ms Randell said.
“We’ll now be able to enrol up to 350 kids from next year, so it’s definitely growing,” she concluded.
Are you a local legend, a hidden talent, or just someone with an interesting story to tell? Our Page 3 Profiles are your chance to shine!
Whether you’re a musician, artist, athlete, or just a friendly face, we want to hear from you. Let us introduce you to the Dubbo community and give you your well-deserved moment in the spotlight.
And once you’ve graced our pages, you can nominate a friend or colleague to be our next featured star.
Ready to shine? Contact us today at photos@dubbophotonews.com.au
With 2025 fast approaching, it’s the perfect time to set new goals for the year ahead. At Oak Tree Retirement Villages, we’re here to help you embrace a fresh start and an exciting new chapter!
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By DALLAS REEVES
IN a diverse top-three featuring the best of Sydney, the North Coast, and the Central West, Old Dubbo Gaol has taken home bronze in the “Cultural Tourism” category at the recent 2024 NSW Tourism Awards.
For those locals who know anything of the bleak history of this fine example of grim Victoriana, its success as a unique and unforgettable visitor experience might come as a surprise.
Old Dubbo Goal began life as a courthouse “lock-up” in 1847 and operated as a gaol until 1966, before being re-purposed for tourism way back in 1974.
At a time when capital punishment was commonplace, its first execution was performed in 1877 when Thomas Newman was executed for murder, and buried in the yard.
Over the next 27 years, however, another seven desperate criminals – “Albert”, Lars Peter Hansen, Harold Dutton Mallallieu, Thomas Moore, Wong Wing, Jacky Underwood, and Ah Check – were all executed at Dubbo Goal. The last took place in 1904.
A campaign to close to Dubbo Goal began in 1929, with a compromise reached to relocate the front entrance off Macquarie Street.
It was flooded to a depth of five feet (1.52-metres) in 1955, before it was officially closed in 1966, with remaining prisoners transferred to Bathurst or
Parramatta.
Eight years after its closure, Dubbo Gaol was transformed into a tourist attraction called Old Dubbo Gaol which opened in 1974 after extensive restoration by the Old Dubbo Gaol Restoration Committee.
Current Dubbo Regional Council Mayor Councillor Josh Black congratulated the Old Dubbo Gaol team on their bronze medal in a recent statement.
“This is a fantastic achievement to recognise the successes within the past year, the award is even more significant as this year marks the facility’s 50th anniversary since the Old Dubbo Gaol has operated as a tourism centre,” Cr Black said.
“This is the second consecutive year we have brought home an award in this category which again highlights the importance of this historic site in our community,” he added.
Within the past 12 months the Old Dubbo Gaol has launched a digital map touchscreen, and developed guided tours to enhance visitor experience with an interactive approach.
“The Old Dubbo Gaol has also launched their new book this year, Sandstone Heart: The History of Dubbo Gaol, the second publication by Old Dubbo Gaol Visitor Experience Officer Chris Anemaat, designed to complement the 50th anniversary of the facility,” Cr Black said.
Additionally, Old Dubbo Gaol volunteer Tom Condon has created greeting card souvenirs avail-
able to purchase at the facility.
“The Old Dubbo Gaol team are exceptional in continuing to introduce new technologies whilst providing award-winning customer experience during a milestone year,” Cr Black said.
Across the Central West and Far West, The Oriana Orange won the 4-4.5 star deluxe accommodation golden medal, while the Broken Hill Mundi Mundi Bash won gold in the festivals and events category, with the Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail taking bronze.
Bathurst Regional Council also won the local government award for tourism gold medal, while Bathurst Visitor Information Centre won gold for visitor information services, and Lithgow’s Frankie’s Restaurant and Bar won bronze in the tourism restaurants and catering services category.
Orange’s Black Sheep Inn picked up a silver in hosted accommodation, and Mudgee’s Sierra Escape took gold in the unique accommodation category, with Bathurst’s Wilga Station next with silver.
“The benchmark for the NSW Tourism Awards this year was high, so to be recognised as a finalist or one of our winners is a huge achievement,” NSW Tourism Chief Executive Officer Natalie Godward said.
“The tourism industry can at times be incredibly tough, so well done to everyone who has gone above and beyond to deliver whether that be experiences, food, or amazing venues.”
When you join the over 55s community at Ingenia Gardens Dubbo, you’ll have the freedom to choose a life that suits you. With a range of accommodation options and lifestyle choices, you can feel secure and connected to live the worry-free life you’ve always wanted.
Support
donate to the Children’s Ward at Dubbo Hospital
Bikers Australia Central West Branch have given wonderful support to the Children’s Ward at Dubbo Base Hospital.
Out picture shows Kai Adams, with Luke Smith from Biker’s Australia Central West Branch, presenting the cheque to Jules Gregory, Kasey Streat and Dafini Paul from Dubbo Base Hospital Children’s Ward.
The cheque for $10,000 was possible after $5000 was raised from the club’s “Gimmie 5 4 Kids Charity Ride” and $5000 was received for the charity distribution from Dubbo Motofest.
PICTURED: Kai Adams, with Luke Smith from Biker’s Australia Central West Branch, presenting the cheque to Jules Gregory, Kasey Streat and Dafini Paul from Dubbo Base Hospital Children’s Ward.
By DALLAS REEVES
THE Buckenbah Collective hosted a community gathering and barbecue in Geurie recently, another small step towards its long-term vision to build the economy in the rural village.
Beginning a little more than two years ago with co-directors Claire Booth and Eliza Whitely, the Buckenbah Collective now features Claire and Libby Wilson as co-directors after Eliza pursued a goal to set up an optometry business in Dubbo.
In June 2022, Claire and Eliza purchased 55 Buckenbah St – between the petrol station and the pub in Geurie – from the Foley family. Claire and Libby have now also purchased the car yard next door.
Three businesses now rent their spaces and operate at 55 Buckenbah St: Terre Rogue Fine Food, The Aviary Cafe Geurie, and Jacinta Haycock Art Gallery and Studio. Providing wheelchair access to all parts of the current building is the next urgent goal.
Four hundred sausages and 400 bags of popcorn were ordered, and face-painters were ready in preparation for the event.
Geurie community members had a chance to grab a free snag and cold drink and then check out the businesses.
Long-term, the Buckenbah Collective plans to add a further four businesses – namely a pharmacy, hair salon, beautician, and health hub –and also residential accommodation. The Health Hub aims to tap into
the rich array of health-qualified people Geurie possesses.
Many of these people have children, so will need flexible hours to operate their businesses.
Claire explained that there are a lot of community members in and around Geurie from ‘The Lincoln Shire’ which includes the Spicer’s Creek, Maryvale, Terrabella, Arthurville, and Ponto districts.
According to Claire, these residents enjoy supporting current local businesses.
Renovating a beautiful heritage building from 1908 and creating a modern art gallery, up-market café destination, and foodie experience, hopefully offers something a little bit different for locals and visitors, Claire said on the website.
The co-owners wanted to ensure their developments can exist with established local businesses like Sunny’s Pitstop Garage, Rachel and David’s General Store, Kristy and Steve’s Mitchell Inn, and the local Geurie Bowling Club.
“There is already a market loving supporting those local businesses,” she said.
“This is a new market and I believe there is people who want exceptional fine food… a beautiful experience… something a bit special.”
SO, WHY FORM THE BUCKENBAH COLLECTIVE?
Asked why she took this on with Eliza initially and now Libby, Claire said peer support was important, but that Geurie has great potential.
“We think Geurie is a very magical place,” she said.
“It’s a lovely place to live. We just think it has so much potential. We knew (the town) could be doing much more than what it is currently.”
Long-term, they could see that Geurie had the chance to become for Dubbo and Wellington people what Millthorpe is for those from Orange and Blayney.
“Both Eliza and I love going to Millthorpe,” she said. “The shopping, the old buildings, the proximity to Orange.” Claire also mentioned the streetscape features at Merriwa and Dunedoo with old-style buildings with verandahs and red geraniums planted in green spaces that the Buckenbah Collective hope to replicate in Geurie. “The streetscape is exquisite… you want to stop,” she said.
“People love having somewhere to go that feels great. We feel Geurie has that potential with a bit of polish.”
During COVID-19, Claire was able to look at some old photos of Geurie in the 1960s and 1970s and those images captured a vibrant main street.
“It was an extraordinarily beautiful main street… it was just like Wellington,” she said. “You can use what has happened in the past as a way to create development into the future.”
She said National Australia Bank has supported the project, and hopes this becomes an example for any people on the land with some spare equity in their farm that diversification is an option.
“It’s stunning and makes people feel good,” she said. “Six or seven people now have a job in Geurie.”
RECENT LAUNCH BRINGS TOGETHER PEOPLE FROM DIFFERING BACKGROUNDS
The recent community gathering and barbecue in Geurie was part of a busy time for Buckenbah Collective after more than 130 people attended its launch on November 2.
That night was an eclectic mix of around 45 tradespeople and suppliers who spent two years renovating the heritage building, along with local politicians and community members.
People like Dubbo Regional Council’s Phillip Toynton (deputy mayor) and Murray Wood (chief executive officer), Federal Member for Calare (Andrew Gee), State Member for Dubbo (Dugald Saunders), and state legislative council member Stephen Lawrence, among other local councillors and dignitaries, attended.
Those attending from public service commented that they rarely get the chance speak with tradesmen, so enjoyed the experience.
“All of these wonderful tradies… and these policy makers, mingling,” Claire said. “A wonderful evening of cross-fertilisation.”
NOW IS AS GOOD A TIME AS ANY TO INVEST IN GEURIE
Generating local employment and supporting current local businesses is another core part of the collective’s investment approach.
Claire, a practising lawyer for more than 20 years, also operates a farm with her husband Brendan.
She also feels with various civil construction projects coming to the region and a gold mine at Wellington, that Buckenbah Collective can capi-
talise on this.
The Buckenbah Collective will allow the car yard the time it needs to sell existing vehicles before it renovates, building the additional shops and residential accommodation.
Claire – who moved to the area in 2011 with husband Brendan – and Eliza are Geurie ladies who pre-2022 got talking about their hopes and aspirations for the future of Geurie.
Both women were excited when a small piece of real estate on Geurie’s front street came up for sale.
“Some of us are local farmers, and like many other local farmers, we think in terms of ‘decades’,” the website states.
“If life is good and kind, we are likely to be farming in the Geurie region for next 50 years, so it makes sense to invest in our local village and create opportunities for everyone.”
Claire added: “The next drought is only around the corner, so creating a green space and cafe, to gather with friends, or pop into an art gallery to absorb the joy of art is an important part of enhancing the ‘liveability’ of our part of the region.”
Buckenbah Collective co-director Libby Wilson sees the potential in Geurie and hopes to help: “Return Geurie to its former glory as a beautiful historical village… the community is incredible. It feels like the perfect time to create new spaces for shops and services.” Buckenbah Station, an old farming station at Yeoval, was named after Buckenbah Creek which runs from Yeoval into the Boori Creek at Geurie. Hence why Geurie’s main street is named Buckenbah Street.
Right at Home, Australia’s leading quality provider of home care, welcomed the Western NSW of-
2024. Owners Jennifer and BrentonMolong, Mudgee, and Denman to the Brewarrina to the north, and Hillston, Hill and Menindee.
services help clients to age safely in their own homes delivering services such as companion care, assistance with activities of daily living such as showering and dressing, domestic assistance such as cleaning, launshopping, escorting and providing transport to appointments, mealtenance, medication assistance, in home respite, and access to social activities and programs. Right at Home Western NSW also provide live in care, 24/7 care, transitional and post-operative care, and care for special care situations due to an illness or injury for which Right at physical and mental situations.
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at Home deliver peace of mind to our clients and their families.
Clients are also matched and introduced to two caregivers, so they have support from someone they recognise and feel safe with.”
community whilst providing employment opportunities for people locally.
Jennifer, Brenton and their staff at Right at Home Western NSW live and which is “to improve the quality of life for those they serveTM”. Right at Home Western NSW supports people living with dementia and cognitive
pendence at home.
Right at Home is a My Aged Care approved provider of Home Care
Right at Home Western NSW can deliver all of these services via private pay arrangements too, which means you do not have to wait in a queue for government funding.
Nurse Jennifer sees that their services are supervised under a nurse
istered Nurse in areas such as Child and Family Health, in-home nursing care, as well as emergency and intensive care. Her true passion is
charges now forming a critical part in at Home are proud of the fact they do
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Glow like the lights on a Christmas tree, it’s like a beacon shining so bright the entire family can feel it.
We sincerely hope you have a happy and safe holiday season, from our family to yours.
Best wishes from the Evans family and the staff of the Abbey Funeral Home.
By DALLAS REEVES
FROM the ashes, Dubbo South Public School students are set to benefit from top-of-the range new facilities with construction starting on a long-promised multimillion-dollar resource.
The work is now underway, almost exactly three years after the devastating December 2021 fire that saw four classrooms and a staff room destroyed at the Fitzroy Street campus, with most of the destroyed amenities to now be consolidated into one new building.
Five new classrooms are also being constructed, as well as a practical activities area, two special programs rooms, a staff study area, staff lounge with amenities, meeting space, and storage facilities.
Exterior upgrades include tiered seating, covered walkways, access ramps, car park resurfacing and landscape enhancements.
Patterson Building Group is the nominated builder, and at this stage the project is expected to be
ject will also allow for the removal of eight demountables.
“Our students, staff, and families have shown incredible resilience and patience following the fire, and today we’re celebrating the foundation of a brighter future for our school,” Dubbo South Principal Renae Giddings enthused.
“This new building will provide modern, inclusive spaces that support learning and well-being for everyone,” she added.
The works, she believes, shows the power of renewal after the confronting scenes of three years ago.
“Seeing the progress on this new building is exciting for the school and wider community,” Ms Giddings said.
“We’re looking forward to the positive impact these updated facilities will have on our children’s education and overall school experience.”
After the dedication Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said that the new building was designed with the local community
“I am pleased to see works progressing at Dubbo South, as students get closer to moving into permanent school facilities.”
Rising like a phoenix from the ashes, looking back, the school was operational just four days after the fire in December 2021.
State Member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders visited before the com-
By DAVID DIXON
DUBBO Council has made its intentions clear, it wants its prestigious hitech sports centre, and it wants it... moved!
During an extraordinary meeting over the issue recently, Council called for the NSW Government to support a change of location for the proposed Dubbo Sports Hub.
Aim of the conflab was to put the spotlight on what was happening with the project – an important one for the whole district – Dubbo Mayor, Councillor Josh Black believes.
“It can still be delivered with the same outcomes, just at a different site, for our region,” Cr Black said.
“The Minns State Government needs to realise when it comes to programs for underprivileged children, there is a lot more to the state than just Moree, and they need to consider what is happening here in the Dubbo, western, and far western regions,” he added.
The $48.6 million facility as announced in 2018 would have incorporated a PCYC Club, regional gymnas-
tics facility, and five multi-purpose courts for netball, basketball, indoor hockey, futsal, and volleyball.
The facility was originally proposed to be built at the CSU University campus, however with the tender substantially exceeding the allocated budget, PCYC NSW has led a proactive approach in putting forward a formal variation to see the development happen at the Sports World location in Dubbo.
Cr Black said this facility would add immeasurably to the opportunities for sporting youth in the Western Region.
“There are numerous advantages of changing the location including it sitting within the school precinct on Sheraton Road and easily being accessible by public transport, which has been significantly improved under the Transport for NSW 16 cities program,” Cr Black said.
“With the benefits, appropriate zoning and a development ready site, the NSW Government and Minister Moriarty should be confident the variation proposal ensures the project is delivered to meet community outcomes and within the budget,” he concluded.
mencement of the 2022 school year and welcomed the progress made over the holidays to restore the site.
“I’m delighted to see the school is now set up and ready to welcome students back for the new year,” Mr Saunders said at the time.
“Seven demountable classrooms are in place and have been fitted out with furniture ready for day one, term one, 2022,” he concluded.
Well, now those demountables are finally going, with a top-of-the range high technology new learning centre going-up at the site of the 2021 devastation.
Sugar, spi , and e ry ing ni ... for the holidays!
The team at Sarah Jane Fine Food would like to express our gratitude for your incredible support during 2024.
Here’s to a sweet and prosperous 2025!
We look forward to welcoming you back in to store on January 6, 2025
Together, we’ve created countless moments of joy and culinary creativity. We wish you a warm and wonderful Christmas full of love ,laughter, happiness and Best Kitchen Wishes!
Blood, sweat and tears, that’s what “Simmo” Braun is offering to save the lives of hundreds of Australians.
The single parent, with three young kids in tow, is funding his own way around Australia on his “The Bloody Good Tour”, dedicating himself to visiting every single blood donor clinic in our wide, brown land.
Last Wednesday the Central Coast father was in Dubbo after having already traversed most of Queensland and northern NSW.
“Over a period of 12 months, my kids and I will be caravaning across the country to visit every town with a blood donor centre, and I and my crew will donate plasma fortnightly,” Simmo explained.
“While I haven’t experienced the need for blood myself, last year I faced some deep personal challenges and I found regular blood donation positively impacted my mental health,” he added.
He believes that the communal act of giving blood – an alien concept in many countries where donors are paid – offers important and largely unheralded benefits to the donor, not just the recipient.
“I’ve experienced tough times, just like everyone else, and as a blood donor, the life-saving part of my identity lifts my spirits… I want people to know that if they are experiencing similar life challenges, that doing good feels good, and blood donation is a great way to feel connected and happy and be a bloody good human.
“Thousands of Australians are alive because of blood donors, and
those people have families, friends, team-mates, colleagues and clients whose lives are also better as a result – that is a pretty special feeling!” Simmo said.
Lifeblood spokesperson Brian Bruce said that a survey of donors and non-donors, to find out what they think about blood donation and it’s impacts on mental and general health, supported Simmo’s experience.
“Our findings show that people who donate blood strongly believe
that blood donation is positive for their mental health, with most reporting they felt nothing but good after their donation,” Bruce said.
“With blood demand at a 10-year-high and plasma demand the highest it’s ever been, we’re calling on locals in Dubbo to show their support by donating blood and registering for the ‘Bloody Good Tour’ donation team,” he said.
To register to donate, visit lifeblood.com.au or call 13 14 95 and join the team ‘Bloody Great Tour’.
If your child is unwell or injured call healthdirect for free on 1800 022 222 A registered nurse will help you access the health care you need from anywhere, day or night. health.nsw.gov.au/anywhere Healthcare anywhere 1800 022 222 call healthdirect
19, 2024-January 15, 2025
Dec 19: Richard Alston, former politician, 83. Lisa Wilkinson, TV presenter, 65. Mike Lookinland, The Brady Bunch actor, 64. Kristina Keneally, politician, 56. Alyssa Milano, US actress, 52. Ricky Ponting , cricketer, 50. Jake Gyllenhaal, US actor, 44.
Dec 20: Ray Martin, T V personality, 80. John Bertrand, America’s Cup-winning sailor, 78. Uri Geller, Israeli psychic, 78. Ken Duncan, photographer, 70. Deborah Hutton, media personality, 63. Jonah Hill , US actor, 41. JoJo, US singer, 34.
Dec 21: Jane Fonda , US actress, 87. Doug Walters, cricketer, 79. Samuel L Jackson, US actor, 76. Chris Evert, US tennis player, 70. Ray Romano, everyone loves him, 67. Kiefer Sutherland, US actor, 58. Karrie Webb, champion golfer, 50. Adam Harvey, country singer, 50. Tom Sturridge, English actor, 39.
Dec 22: Sam Newman, AFL commentator, 79. Donnie Sutherland, TV personality, 78. Jan Stephenson, golfer, 73. Ralph Fiennes, English actor, 62. Vanessa Paradis, French singer-actress, 52. Jennifer Hawkins model, 41. Jordin Sparks , US singer, 35. Dec 23: Akihito, emperor of Japan, 91. Harry Shearer US actor-comedian, 81. Quentin Bryce, former GovernorGeneral, 82. Silvia , queen of Sweden, 81.
Dec
By DAVID DIXON
ADS ARE THE LIFEBLOOD OF YOUR FREE NEWSPAPER
As we prepare to celebrate our 20th year in 2025, we reflect on what makes Dubbo Photo News a beloved part of our community. Every week, we bring you the stories and moments that matter, and the best part? It’s free.
But “free” doesn’t mean costless to produce. Every page you read exists because local businesses believe in us.
Their advertising support is what keeps this publication alive.
Next time you flip through the paper and notice the ads, remember that these aren’t just promotional content – they are the lifelines that enable us to provide local news, stories, and photos, all at no cost to you.
Before requesting services like photography or a story, consider that these efforts aren’t free to produce. Like any business, we must balance our resources to continue serving the community.
We ask businesses to view our services as part of the value we bring to Dubbo and consider partnering with us through advertising or sponsorship.
When a local business advertises with us, it does much more than market a product – it sustains our community. Ads:
Employ locals: Journalists, photographers, designers, and distribution staff.
Fund local coverage: From sports to school achievements, ads make it possible to cover the stories that matter.
Keep news free and accessible: Advertisers ensure we can provide reliable, trusted reporting in an age of misinformation.
Our advertisers are more than business owners – they’re community champions. By supporting Dubbo Photo News, they help preserve local stories and keep our publication free for all. We encourage you to support these businesses in return.
As we approach our 20th year, we’re proud to have been named Best Free Newspaper at the 2024 NSW Country Press Awards. This achievement is thanks to you – our readers and advertisers. We look forward to strengthening our partnerships in 2025. If you’ve ever wondered how we can support your business, now is the perfect time to reach out!
From our team to yours, we extend a massive thank you to all the incredible local businesses who have partnered with us this year. Your support has been the backbone of Dubbo Photo News—without you, we wouldn't be able to deliver the stories, photos, and updates that keep our community informed and connected.
We know you have choices when it comes to advertising, so we’re genuinely grateful that you’ve chosen to invest in us.
Your commitment helps us keep Dubbo Photo News free for everyone, and for that, we can’t thank you enough.
Whether you’re a long-time supporter or a new friend, you’re the reason we do what we do.
Here’s to another year of collaboration, community spirit, and, of course, plenty of ads!
With warmest thanks, The Team at Dubbo Photo News
Community newspapers, like Dubbo Photo News, are more than just a stack of stories – they’re the heartbeat of local towns. Here are five fun facts that show why they matter:
ENGAGED AUDIENCES
Did you know 74per cent of Australians aged 14+ read a newspaper each month? Local papers attract loyal readers who are passionate about their community and rely on us for trusted news. We like to think of ourselves as your local news BFF.
PRINT IS STILL TRUSTED
In a world full of clickbait and “fake news,” print remains a trusted source. Studies show 60per cent of Australians trust their local paper more than online news. So, if you’re looking for facts, we’ve got you covered!
NEWSPAPERS REACH ALL AGES
Get ready for a year filled with special features, fun flashbacks, and unforgettable memories. Do you have an old edition tucked away? Were you a newbie in 2005, or did we catch you on your first day of school? Maybe you were featured in one of our Men at Work or Page 3 profiles! If you have a flashback to share, we’d love to hear it—let’s celebrate together! p old) are incre more than 40 also attractin i wh are more like w UL
Community newspapers aren’t just for retirees! While the 55+ crowd makes up a big chunk of our readers, younger folks (25-44 years old) are increasingly turning to print for local updates. And with more than 40per cent of readers in the top income bracket, we’re also attracting businesses’ most valuable customers.
LOCAL BUSINESSES LOVE US
Advertising in a community paper means your message is seen by people who care about their town. Plus, 52per cent of readers are more likely to support businesses that advertise in their local paper. It’s a win-win!
From sports e newspapers everyone sta be heard. Wh
From sports events to celebrating local milestones, community newspapers are the glue that holds everything together. We ensure everyone stays in the loop and provide a platform for your voice to be heard. Who doesn’t love a little local gossip (the good kind)?
When you pick up your community newspaper, you’re not just getting the news – you’re supporting a vital local institution. We connect people, strengthen businesses, and help your town thrive. So next time you enjoy your free paper, remember: it’s powered by local businesses, supported by readers like you, and made with love by your community for your community.
DUBBO WORKS is highlighting the excellent career and learning opportunities the Dubbo region offers. To contribute ideas, email dubboworks@dubbophotonews.com.au
By DAVID DIXON
THE ‘thin blue line’ of law and order in the region just became a little bit thicker, with the recent appointment of half a dozen new police officers to the local region.
These comprised six new probationary constables starting with Orana Mid-Western Local Police District after a formal graduation ceremony from Goulburn Police Academy earlier this month.
Four of the new officers are based in Dubbo, one in Coonamble, and one in Coonabarabran.
In more good news for the NSW Police Force, the statewide intake is one of the largest in recent times. “Class 364”, as it is termed, encompasses a total of 298 new probationary constables including 218 men and 30 women, the largest graduating group in a decade.
“I am delighted to welcome our newest police officers and commend them for choosing to serve
our communities,” State Member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders said.
“Their commitment to fostering a safe and thriving environment is invaluable, and we want each officer to know that their efforts are deeply appreciated,” he added.
Mr Saunders said that the central west is a great place to start their working lives.
“Policing is like no other profession.
“It is a selfless career, where officers run towards danger to protect us and the wider community, rather than the natural instinct to run in the opposite direction.”
The new recruits have all completed eight months of foundational training, with those in Orana Mid-Western Local Police District reporting to their stations in mid-December as they look to complete 12 months’ on-the-job training and study by distance education with Charles Sturt University.
Sarah
Where do you work? B2B Abilities
What’s your job? Support Co-ordinator and support worker
Why do you Love Your Work? It is good to make a positive difference in people’s lives.
What’s the best thing to
do to relax? I like to listen to music and go for a walk. What’s your favourite thing to do in Dubbo with friends and family? I love to go to the weekend markets, and go to the parks. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Malta. My partner’s family are from Malta and I’d love to explore! What was your first paying job? The 5 Star in Gilgandra. Name three things you enjoyed at schoolSchool holidays... cooking in Home Ec and Design and Technology.
What is your favourite part of the week at B2B Abilities? I love Wednesdays. It is Bowling day and it is wonderful to watch the joy it brings to our customers. As a child what did you want to do when you grew up? I wanted to be a speech pathologist.
Dubbo Regional Council is looking for an IT Technical Support Officer to be responsible for providing day-to-day 2nd and 3rd line operational support services to users, including those within Information Services.
You are the escalation point for the IT Service Desk within the IT Operations team, assisting with the resolution of more complex issues and problems, as well as ensuring servers, software applications and associated network equipment are operational and up to date. With a variety of work, no two days are the same in this challenging and engaging role.
You’ll find growth through: Investigating, diagnosing, and resolving operational related incident and service requests escalated by the IT Service Desk
Liaising with hardware, software, and communications suppliers, ensuring operational incidents and problems are rectified as quickly as possible
Identifying and monitoring trends and potential problem sources and taking relevant action
Providing asset management services in regard to all ICT equipment
Providing infrastructure and operations management services to the organisation across various systems and programs
Provide application packaging services to the organisation via endpoint management software
Providing project management services in respect to the infrastructure section of the branch
More details can be found at www.seek.com.au/job/80767995
By KEN SMITH
Tis the season to celebrate with song and a great sausage sandwich! Dubbo West Public School Christmas Concert and Stalls, even Santa gave the performances the thumbs up. What a fantastic turnout to support the performances, well done to all involved and Merry Christmas.
Contributed by DONNA FALCONNER
Dubbo Country Hope held its inaugural Christmas celebration on Sunday, December 8, for local families impacted by cancer and life-threatening illnesses.
Volunteers and their children were also invited to join the event, creating a wonderful opportunity to meet the families and share in the holiday spirit.
The day was filled with joy and fun at the local ten-pin bowling centre, accompanied by delicious food, lolly bags and a special visit from Santa, who brought gifts for every child.
It was heart-warming to see smiles light up the children’s faces, a reminder of the power of community and togetherness during challenging times.
We also took a moment to think of our little friends unable to join us as they continue their treatment. Our thoughts and well-wishes remain with them and their families.
Dubbo Country Hope extends its gratitude to everyone who participated and helped make this day a memorable one. And to the community who have supported us, thank you, it continues to allow us to support and help local families at a
Comedy, dance, drama, and much more are set to hit the stage for the Dubbo Regional Theatre’s 2025 Season, with 20 touring shows guaranteed to entertain.
The 2025 Season, themed A Million Reasons, will deliver an exciting and ecletic mix of shows combining age-old classics with contemporary masterpieces.
To view the full 2025 Season lineup and become a Season Subscriber, head to drtcc.com.au
SOPHIA MCCAUGHAN
INSPIRING the next generation while connecting with culture, country and people – this was the important message from the NRLW Indigenous All Stars’ recent visit to
The All Stars concept aims to showcase Indigenous and Maori cultures in a weeklong festival that was established in 2010 by former Dally M medallist, Preston Campbell. The inaugural women’s game played in 2011 between the Indigenous All Stars and All Stars side made up of Australian Jillaroos representatives and other rising talent.
Local Jessica Skinner is the head coach of the women’s Indigenous All-Stars – a proud Barkindji and Wongaibon woman – born and raised in Trangie where she still resides. Skinner in early December brought the Indigenous All Stars squad out to Trangie to give players an opportunity to connect with the communities they represent on the
The Narromine Star attended the Welcome to Country ceremony at Goan Waterhole and the open training session at Alan Burns Oval on Saturday, December 7. Skinner was selected as head coach of the squad in February this year while making history as the first ever female to lead the NRLW Indigenous All Stars.
Coaching is a passion for Skinner and her journey began in Trangie with a local rugby league team before rising to the elite ranks - which included being named as an assistant coach with the national women’s team, the Jillaroos.
Skinner began organising the Trangie visit for the Indigenous All Stars squad earlier this year and told the Narromine Star it is important for the players to come out to western NSW communities to further connect with their culture and be on Country.
“It is so important that they keep up that connection with culture and Country,” she said.
“They are going to face many obstacles in their careers, whether it is injury, whether it is missing home, so these moments that they take to come back to Country or to be on Country while connecting with other mobs is so important to help shape their identity and resilience.”
Skinner said that the playing group spoke with young people from the community during their visit where they reminded them that nothing is unachievable.
“We had a couple of young people who followed us around and we talked about how hard it is to get to that elite level from here, but it is not unachievable,” she told the Narromine Star.
“They can still achieve it with that dedication and hard work with a lot of sacrifice.
“For me it is about that visibility – that anything is possible and you know, hopefully we have inspired at least one young boy or girl, Indigenous or non-Indigenous, to go, I can do that one day too.”
Skinner concluded that it was a rare opportunity for the community and she was glad she could bring the NRLW Indigenous squad out to Trangie and inspire the next generation.
*Reprinted from Narromine Star
By SOPHIA MCCAUGHAN
LAND values across regional NSW have risen by nearly three per cent over the year, according to new analysis by the NSW Valuer General.
Valuer General of NSW, Sally Dale, said the bush has experienced a solid increase in land valuations with continued demand for property and constrained supply.
Total land valuations for regional NSW experienced a combined increase of 2.7 per cent across all property types from $329 billion to $338 billion – about $9 billion in total – from between July 1, 2023 and July 1, 2024.
Property sales are the most important factor valuers consider when determining land values. Regional industrial land values experienced the highest growth across property categories, with a 9.9 per cent average increase.
Among western council areas, Narromine Shire has recorded increases in land values across all categories. The Shire which includes Narromine, Trangie and Tomingley experienced an increase of 3.4 per cent in residential land value.
The local government area (LGA), however, only had a min-
imal increase in commercial land values of 0.4 per cent.
The biggest increase in land value was enjoyed by industrial and rural land values with the Shire recording an increase of 4.7 per cent in industrial land and 4.8 per cent for rural land values.
Overall, the increase in land value in the Narromine Shire was on average 4.6 per cent as of July 1, 2024.
In other rural areas, Warrumbungle LGA had the largest increase in industrial land values of 92.4 per cent. Greater Hume LGA witnessed an increase of 61
per cent, followed by Tamworth Regional with an increase of 41.5 per cent.
“The strong growth in Warrumbungle has been attributed to the strong rural economy that supports the industrial market in Coonabarabran,” Ms Dale said.
“Greater Hume also experienced a very strong increase on the back of the town’s growing population and its proximity to the larger Albury-Wodonga centre, which is driving demand, as seen in the Jindera industrial estate,” she added.
In land for housing, Cobar LGA
had an increase of 45.4 per cent in residential land values, driven by a strong performing economy, a thriving local minerals and critical minerals mining sector, and support from the visitor economy.
Gilgandra, Balranald, and Bogan also experienced very strong increases with residential land values in Gilgandra LGA increasing by 37.6 per cent.
The Bland LGA had the biggest decrease in residential land values of 6.7 per cent, followed by Murray River and Broken Hill.
“The state’s constrained housing supply and resulting popu-
Total land valuations for regional NSW experienced a combined increase of 2.7 per cent across all property types from $329 billion to $338 billion — about $9 billion in total — from between July 1, 2023 and July 1, 2024.
lation shifts continue to support increases in residential land values across western NSW as people look for more affordable and available housing,” Ms Dale said.
“It will be interesting to see if this trend continues over the longer term and whether the tree change remains a trend in the future,” she speculated.
For commercial land values across regional NSW, there was a minor increase of 2.4 per cent in valuations.
Uralla recorded the strongest increase of 34 per cent, driven by high interest in the recently-announced Renewable Energy Zone.
Cobar and Bogan both had strong increases also driven by increased demand from renewed mining activity and the potential for new mines in surrounding areas.
A total of 42 of 71 LGAs experienced less than 1.0 per cent or minor negative growth in commercial land values, however.
By DAVID DIXON
WELLINGTON Lions are looking to end 2024 with a bang, with one final fund-raising push for the year.
This includes being on-hand for the pre-Christmas rush at Wellington Soldiers Memorial Club this Friday, December 20, for their famous Christmas Raffles, as well as for sales of their traditional Lions Christmas Cake and Pudding.
The Raffle includes a voucher worth $150, wine donated by the club, and two other prizes, to be drawn at the last book fair open day of the year on Saturday, December 21.
If you miss-out on Friday, the cakes and puddings are also available from the preloved book fair on the Saturday, as well as outside Coles for cash sales.
The local community service group will then be having a deserved holiday break over the holiday period with their book fair reopening in late January.
Their first meeting of the year will also be held on Monday, February 10 from 4.30pm at Wellington Soldiers Memorial Club.
“We would still love to see some new members, as many hands make light work!” a Club spokesperson said.
“If anyone is interested, contact John on 0414 880 644 or speak to a Lions member at the book fair,” they concluded.
By DAVID DIXON
SANTA Claus is coming to town and – rather than his usual reindeers and sleigh – he’ll be arriving on little wings!
Little Wings, the transport charity for country children needing medical care in the big smoke, is hosting a very special event in Wellington on Christmas Eve for all the local boys and girls – and they’ll have metropolitan media in tow.
“On Tuesday, December 24, we will be flying into Wellington to deliver 500 presents to all the locals and 200 food hampers, partnering with the Food Bank,” a spokesperson for the group said.
“Santa is coming, Channel 9 News is coming,” they added.
Sponsored by Club Dubbo, the event will also include a free barbecue and drinks, face-painting and family photos.
This free, pre-Christmas jamboree is on Tuesday, December 24, in Cameron Park from 10 to 12pm, and everyone is invited to come along.
The event follows the Dubbo region becoming, for the first time, the highest-serviced area for the country-based charity, flying bush-
based kids to get the medical help they need.
Little Wings is a unique not-for-profit that provides complimentary, professional, safe flight and ground transport services for seriously-ill children in rural and regional NSW, the ACT and Queensland.
For the past 12 months they completed a total of 2371 missions with 243 of these being Dubbo flights, their most popular embarkation point, according to Chief Executive Officer Clare Pearson.
“Full Year 2024 has seen Dubbo missions skyrocket, and it is now officially the busiest destination for Little Wings missions,” Clare said.
“Over 10 per cent of our annual missions fly in and out of Dubbo, and we are so thankful to receive support from the local community and businesses, keeping Little Wings in the air,” she added.
across NSW, the ACT and Queensland with five planes from a 90 per cent volunteer-led organisation of which all of its commercial pilots and professional drivers are volunteers.
Eve and say “thanks” to one of our best bush not-for-profits.
By KEN SMITH
What more could you ask for?
Fantastic weather, good crowd, food and drink, plenty of carols and music, Santa and a perfect sunset.
Dubbo West ROTARY organised another well attended, highly entertaining and fun Carols By Candlelight and thanks to the DRC Parks and Grounds Team who had Victoria Park No 1 looking a picture.
STROLLS TO THE RIVER,
This 2-bedroom home offers plenty of opportunity for everyone, including a first home buyer. This little investment’s features include a dining room, two bedrooms, kitchen, laundry, bathroom, loungeroom, verandah on the southern side, carport attached to western side of the house, rainwater tank, two solar systems - one with a battery connected, reverse-cycle air conditinoing, electric hot water, rangehood, garden sheds, irrigation system, large low-maintenance backyard with rear lane access and a chook yard.
Walk around our estate, and you’ll meet people who value the things you do; community, comfort and connection.
We’re ready to welcome you to a lifestyle designed by you. Your choice of design and builder
As the festive season approaches, the real estate market traditionally experiences a lull, with activity slowing down as individuals focus on holiday festivities. The calm is expected to extend over the Christmas break, only to give way to increased activity again around mid January. Generally the market, which has been relatively quieter during the holiday season, will begin to pick up momentum as the New Year unfolds.
For prospective sellers eyeing a move in 2025, we recommend a proactive approach. Engaging with real estate agents early in the year can prove to be strategic, allowing for discussions on timelines and preparation.
February and March are generally busy months for property sales. This surge in activity is often driven by a combination of factors, including New Year resolutions, changing life circumstances, and a renewed focus on future plans. For those considering putting their properties on the market, initiating conversations with real estate professionals in January positions sellers to make informed decisions and take advantage of the anticipated uptick in buyer interest.
As the holiday season unfolds, the real estate market may be hushed, but it is the perfect time to set to lay the groundwork for a successful 2025 sale.
Chant and Co wishes everyone a very Happy Christmas and New Year – May all your days be merry and bright!
If you have any questions or are thinking of selling, contact Karen on 0448 191167 or email karen@chantandco.com.au.
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For the past nine years, Sushi Haru has been a staple in Dubbo’s dining scene, delighting locals with its high-quality Japanese cuisine.
Located at Orana Mall, Sushi Haru specialises in a wide range of sushi, sashimi and traditional Japanese dishes, alongside a selection of innovative fusion options.
Sushi Haru has a diverse menu tailored to Australian tastes. Their chicken sushi rolls have become particularly popular, appealing to those looking for something unique.
The restaurant’s interactive sushi train concept further enhances the dining experience, ensuring that every visit is memorable.
Among the standout dishes, the Teriyaki Chicken has earned rave reviews for its perfect balance of sweet and savoury flavours, making it a crowd favourite.
In addition to their delicious food, Sushi Haru also offers Japanese snacks, chocolates, and gift
vouchers, making it a go-to spot for both dining and gift giving.
The restaurant has built a loyal following of individuals and families who appreciate fresh, flavourful meals and a fun dining atmosphere.
Sushi Haru was established with a vision to bring sushi to Dubbo, a need the owners recognised when they first arrived in the area. Impressed by the warmth and friendliness of the local community, they decided to open their restaurant in Orana Mall, where they’ve thrived ever since.
Looking to the future, Sushi Haru plans to expand its menu to include even more Japanese dishes and hopes to open additional locations to share their culinary creations with a wider audience.
Sushi Haru is open daily from 10am to 8pm, with Sundays until 4pm.
and must visit at
For an unforgettable dining experience, Sushi Haru remains a must visit location at Orana Mall.
JORDAN
tured
Photos by KEN
SMITH
From his arrival, Santa was kept busy on Saturday 7th December, meeting all at the Farmer’s Markets, Dubbo.
There were plenty of smiles, a few first-time quizzical looks, and plenty of photos and another fantastic performance from Orana Dance
Thumbs up to ‘Pets At Peace’ for the compassionate way they dealt with the cremation of our much loved dog.
Thumbs up transport to the elderly to enable them to attend Church every Sunday. Your kindness is appreciated.
Thumbs up thank-you for your help.
Thumbs up extraordinary work they do to keep Vinnies store so well presented and for always being attentive to all customers. Well done.
Thumbs up at Barraminya Dubbo. He is always cheerful, even when working night shift, and holds training sessions on the grassed area for patients. Barraminya is lucky to have him
Thumbs up Presbyterian Church’s Christmas Carols held on Saturday evening, especially for the fi kids loved!
Send your Thumbs Up via email to photos@dubbophotonews. com.au, mail to Level 1, 178 Macquarie Street Dubbo NSW 2830, or phone 6885 4433.
Dubbo Photo News is a great local paper because people like you share your stories with us. If you have a story, event or news item, call us on 6885 4433 or email editor@ dubbophotonews.com.au
Christmas is about family, with local Dianne Carroll recently sending in a touching photo to Dubbo Photo news showing four generations of her family who got together on Wednesday, December 11, for morning tea at the Coffee Club in Dubbo.
Pictured are, from left, Dianne Carroll, Emily JohnsonBrook, Leticia Johnson, and Robert Johnson. Thanks for sending us your photo Dianne!. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED
THERE’S no better time to hunker down with a good book than during the long, hot days of the Central West summer.
On that theme, Macquarie Regional Library’s Summer Reading Challenge has kicked off for kids around the region who are up for a friendly contest.
The challenge is a free reading incentive program designed for young people aged from 5 to 16 years that aims to help maintain literacy levels over the summer school holiday period. Participants simply log their reading for the chance to win one of 10 great prize packs.
To register, entrants can download the library’s recommended app or visit their local library for a manual paper log, Macquarie Regional Manager Kathryn McAlis-
“The Summer Reading Challenge is a great opportunity to continue to develop your child’s literacy skills, but also their love for reading,” Ms McAlister said.
“Children log their reading throughout the summer to earn entries into the prize draws with great prizes to be won!” she added.
For the competition, Wellington and Dubbo Library offer an extensive range of books as well as access to a large collection of e-books and e-audio books available via apps such as Libby, Borrow Box, and IndyReads.
“Books are free to borrow with a library card, and can provide children the opportunity to explore the wonderful world of books and stories,” Ms McAlister explained.
“The Summer Reading Challenge is a great way to keep children reading during the school holidays. Reading is a skill for life and a great way to relax or enjoy for entertainment.”
She added that, no matter how young, any child can enter the competition for a gift.
“If your child is five years and under, they can still take part in the challenge in the same manner,” Ms McAlister revealed.
“But they will be entered into a separate prize draw for an age-appropriate prize,” she said.
The Summer Reading Challenge runs right through the warmer months and ends on Friday, February 28.
to
1. In Germany, finding an ornament shaped like what food hidden in the Christmas tree will bring good luck?
2. In Japan, it has become a Christmas tradition to eat from which fast food chain?
3. The first artificial Christmas trees, developed in Germany in the 19th century, were made using what material?
4. Zoe Deschanel (pictured) starred alongside Will Ferrell in which Christmas movie?
Love Sudoku? Reader/contributor M.K. suggests that you might love it even more if you colour code your grid. Each number 1-9 is assigned a colour, and you solve the puzzle as normal, except you colour in the box to denote your answer. When it’s all finished, she says, “It looks like a colourful quilt.”
ARIES: In romantic matters, you may receive a marriage proposal, either from someone you don’t know or during a trip with your partner. This week holds surprises that will be good for you.
TAURUS: You’ll have a lot to do at work to f inalise files before the holidays. However, everything will go according to plan. You’ll finish off the year with a sense of accomplishment and leave with peace of mind.
GEMINI: You’ll put the finishing touches on your holiday decorations after finding out last minute that you’ll be hosting an important gathering. Your desire to outdo yourself will push you to do everything
in your power to stand out.
CANCER: You’ll find time to manage the household, t ake care of the children and serve as host for the get-togethers. You’ll be involved in a community activity that will make you feel an extra burst of gratitude.
LEO: You won’t mince your words this week! You’ll openly express what others are thinking. You may also need to dispel some nasty gossip to prevent it from complicating your relationships.
VIRGO: You’ll need to make more purchases, which w ill cause you to spend beyond your budget. However, the presents will be greatly appreciated, earning you warm thanks.
LIBRA: You’ll need to make last-minute arrangements a t work or at home. At the off ice, you’ll be the first to arrive and the last to leave. For this, you’ll earn the trust of management for an upcoming promotion.
SCORPIO: Be careful not to wear yourself out before t he start of the holiday season. You’ll have to take time to rest to get over something that’s causing fatigue. There’s nothing like an inspiring read at a time like this.
SAGITTARIUS: Stress at work may make you feel like you’re in turmoil. Fortunately, you’ll regain your self-confidence just in time for Christmas. You won’t leave your good friends alone for the holidays.
CAPRICORN: You’ll excel at work and in preparing f or the holidays. You’ll complete all your tasks on time. This will give you peace of mind during your time off.
AQUARIUS: Your friends may invite you to t ravel with them. You’ll accept the offer without hesitation. If not, you may take part in a multicultural celebration with your loved ones during the holidays.
PISCES: You may feel a mix of emotions as the hol idays approach. This year’s celebrations will be different, evoking a sense of nostalgia that may bring out your sensitive side.
MONDAY: I open the fridge to get milk for my coffee and realise we’re out of milk. And coffee. And bread. And food in general. I announce we’re having dry cereal for breakfast and stale wraps for lunch. The girls inform me they got up early and had friend eggs on toast (hence the lack of bread) and caramelos from their advent calendars. Miss 16 wanders past me sipping an incredible looking iced coffee with the last of our milk and coffee and what looks to be hubby’s $14 a litre café latte ice-cream and tells me it’s my fault for sleeping in until 7. I remind myself I can’t afford boarding school and that there’s coffee at work. I pack Miss 16 the stalest wrap in her lunchbox.
TUESDAY: I have a medical appointment that I’m freaking out about, so I tell the girls I’m wagging work for the morning and I’m going swimming. They come too, and end up being over an hour late for school but it was literally the best morning ever. I LOVE the water and my girls ended up (gasp) playing together in the pool happily. My scan is good and although I need a biopsy next week, my lymph nodes are all clear which is the best news ever.
WEDNESDAY: Hubby and I take the morning off work to attend Miss 10’s presentation day.
Unfortunately, I realise at 9.30 am that it’s actually on Thursday. I have an un-fun conversation with hubby where I admit my mistake, and we both scramble to rearrange tomorrow morning. We spend the night at Miss 16’s presentation ceremony where we are super proud of her and proud of ourselves for managing to stay awake until 9pm.
THURSDAY: Hubby and I take the morning off work to attend Miss 10’s presentation day, successfully this time. I try to zoom through as much work as possible and don’t realise until 4pm that I promised to help Miss 10 make a gingerbread house for her Friday teacher. I didn’t have time to properly chill
the dough so this involves wonky pieces, a roof sliding off, a wall caving in, tears, swear words and Miss 10 fixing me a cocktail. I’m proud of none of those things, but we do what we must to survive. If anyone is still looking for a present for me, I’m out of Bailey’s. I prop the roof of the house up with a shot glass full of M&Ms and hope the teachers have finished writing reports.
FRIDAY: I have another appointment, this time for a mammogram. Did you know these are recommended every two years for women over 40? I didn’t until recently! After Tuesday’s beautiful morning I take the kids for a swim first again. The water,
fresh air and exercise really help to start the day beautifully. The kids convince me to stop for coffee on the way home (because I deserve it apparently) and they somehow coerce me into going to Maccas for it. I watch in awe as Miss 10 eats a Big Mac for breakfast and wish I had some of her manipulation skills. Mammogram is quick and painless and after work I head to a CWA meeting to avoid cricket with the kids.
WEEKEND: We swim, eat ham and salad and I do my last interview for the year and manage to finish work two days early. I decide not to tell hubby or the kids and I look forward to a very deserved breakcatch you next year!
Congratulations to the hundreds of Dubbo locals honoured with a Thumbs Award in 2024!
Your contributions, big and small, help strengthen our community. Dubbo Photo News is proud to support and celebrate the everyday acts that make our town a better place, recognising the spirit that binds us all.
ThumbsupandahugethankyoutoDubboWheelAlignmentfor
Thumbsuptothefantasticmanagementandstaffat HannafordTyresinDubbo.Afterlotsofdramawithourvehicle recently,wewenttoHannaford'swhogaveusexceptionalcustomer service.Wecannotfaultthemorrecommendthemmorehighly!
Funeral arrangements
Dearly loved partner of Bernadette (dec).
Loving father and father-in-law of Michael & Elisha, Rebecca & Myles, Kellie & David (dec). Devoted brother to Wendy & Trisha. Cherished Pop and Great Pop to all his grandkids and great-grandkids. Nephew and cousin and best mate to so many people.
By GEOFF MANN
FORMER Narromine junior, David Gainsford – now Vice-President of Manly Warringah District Cricket
Club – says the four Sydney first grade sides recently returned to the big smoke full of praise for the set-up in our fair city.
“Everyone agrees, the quality and number of co-located grounds is unparalleled in the city,” David, the son of former NSW Cricket Association Life Member, Brian Gainsford, told Dubbo Photo News
“Take-out Hawkesbury and Raby, and there are no other comparable complexes,” he added.
For proximity and convenience, there’s nothing to compare in the congested metropolis on our eastern seaboard.
“To be able to play club cricket on adjacent grounds, is something we don’t see in Sydney.
“We don’t have any grounds with lights, so for our Manly boys to play Wests here in Dubbo on a Friday night, was an incredible ex-
perience,” David enthused.
Manly went down in both games, under lights against Wests, and then in a heatwave batting second against Sydney University on Saturday, while Wests scoring two wins and Sydney Uni an impressive victory against the seasiders.
Local cricketers, some of whom have played grade in Sydney, and other “hopefuls”, were impressed with the pre-match rituals and quality of performance.
‘Many fine cricketers have come from the bush and made their names in Sydney Grade Cricket.
“So, it was good for some of the next generation to observe what the players go through and the standard that is required,” Dave said.
The former Backwater junior –“I filled in on weekends and when I was home from boarding school” – referenced the local legends he had seen play.
“Ian Drake, John Armati, Bob Stroud, Frank Smith (Nyngan), and Doug Murray (Gilgandra) and the ageless Ron Radford, all
stand-out.
“I can recall Dave Martin, Col Blackman and Peter Leslie all show-casing their skills in Dubbo and the Far West grounds when I was growing-up.
“Most towns had local comps and then the inter-district Brewery Shield was fiercely contested,” Dave reminisced.
He also reflected on the Western Zone products who had made their names in Sydney, one becoming a world-record fast bowler, the other a spinner.
“Glen McGrath, Chris Killen, Chris Tremain, Don Nash, formed a fairly dynamic fast-bowling quartet and of course, there is no greater off-spin bowler than Nathan Lyon, whose forbears played for Purlewaugh and Coonabarabran.”
Dave could also have listed legends like former Test batsman Brian Booth (Perthville), Paul Bourke, David Carson, Peter Toohey (Blayney), Graham Tink, David Taylor, Nathan Pilon, Stu Webster, Dave Martin, and Col Blackman.
The likes of Patrick Rosser and Brendan Lyon have all captained Sydney first grade teams and others like Mark Patterson, Tim Armstrong, Greg Watson, Tim Lang, James and Scott Henry, and wicket-keeper Rhett Lockyear (Gulgong) along with Donald O’Connor (Gilgandra) have had stellar careers, playing for multiple State sides.
David pointed-out the tremendous number of players who have represented the University of NSW including Dave and Peter Carson, Mark Mullen, Will Lindsay, Ben and Jim Day, Tim and Brad Cox, Tim Lang, Mitchell O’Connor, and others.
“Country NSW is a breeding ground, so we introduced the concept of bringing Belvidere Cup matches last year, and now Cricket NSW has adopted the program, and we can expect more matches will be held here in future years.
“The matches under lights, are a real lure,” David smiled.
In other cricket news, Dubbo
will also host the Western Zone Premier League Final against Bathurst this Sunday at No 1 Oval. This match will top-off a busy week for skipper, Marty Jeffrey, who led Western against Newcastle in the Plan B Big Bash T20 Final on Tuesday. Both men’s and women’s Zone teams have proven to be champions of both 20 and 50over white ball cricket this season, winning their respective Country Regional round robin series.
Bathurst batsman, Cooper Brien and fast bowler, Ben Parsons, will also head to South Australia with the Bush Blues in January along with the NSW Country Women’s team, captained by Kim Churchland (Cowra), Calle Black (Wellington, Bathurst), Emma Hughes (Dubbo), and Madi Spence and Ella Tilburg.
This week has seen teams from all over Country NSW competing in State Cup Under 12s, Under 13s and Under 14s, while the Bradman Cup Under 16s head to Albury in the new year to compete for higher honours.
By GEOFF MANN
DUBBO Photo News colleague,
David Dixon’s glowing tribute to “the father of Dubbo athletics”, Ross Poulton, last week was a must-read and a bookmark in the city’s sporting history.
Unfortunately, I was out of town for a family event at the time, but have subsequently dug into my archives and found a fascinating interview that I had recorded with Ross on that famous evening when the grandstand at Barden Park was dedicated in his honour.
Amongst other memories
It’s a feast for local racing fans over the holiday period with a number of local meets to whet any punter’s appetite for the festive season.
This includes Dubbo harness racing on Boxing Day Thursday, December 26, featuring the Gerard Yeo Memorial; gallops this Saturday, December 21 at Dubbo Turf Club, Bathurst on Monday, December 23, and then Wellington on Boxing Day, Thursday, December 26, and Gilgandra on Saturday, December 28 and Sunday, January 5 for the Gilgandra Cup.
And as always, the greyhounds will be sprinting around Dawson Park throughout the festive season and into the New Year.
Ross shared, were the time he first met future Commonwealth Games gold medallist, Katrina Gibbs.
“Katrina and her mum, Mavis, drove over from Merrygoen to improve their skills,” Ross recalled.
“I didn’t know much about coaching high-jumpers, but I thought I would be able to help in some way, so I read-up and spoke to others who were more experienced,” he added.
Ross says his first impression of the young athlete, left him breathless.
“She ran to the bar and hurdled it front on!
“I thought, ‘we will need to refine that technique, but what a powerful leap she has’.”
Ross also oversaw the emergence of future Olympic sprinter, Melinda Gainsford from Narromine.
‘She was so strong, so fiercely determined and, more than anything, so willing to work,” Ross remembered.
“It was no surprise when the Narromine sensation made her debut in green-and-gold at Commonwealth, World Championship, and Olympic Games.”
The full story of Ross Poulton’s legacy is all there in last week’s Photo News, but I just
wanted to share a couple of memories from that glorious evening when Ross and Heather and family were acknowledged in perpetuity by the Dubbo community.
How ironic that, in the week Ross passed away, Max McAneney and Zac Harding were running personal best times at State Athletics carnivals and bringing medals back to the club, and, in a year when 18-year-old Ella Penman had run for Australia at the World Junior Championships in Peru!
Ross would have been proud, and probably is anyway!
Contributed by WEST DUBBO BOWLS
CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS
Helen Davis and Warren Towney are this year’s Mixed Pairs Champions, following a comprehensive 25-9 victory last Saturday over the gallant pairing of Tracey and John Silk. The first end was the early indicator of the outcome, when the soon-to-be champions scored a “maximum” from which, for Tracey and John, there was no coming back.
Nominations for the Mixed Fours, the Men’s Triples and Women’s Triples are now on the club noticeboard. The Mixed Fours will be played in February on Friday nights (see conditions alongside nomination sheet) and the Triples Championships will be held in late February on Saturday and Sunday mornings.
PENNANTS
West Dubbo has nominated four teams – Grades One, Four, Six, and Seven – for next year’s Open Gender Pennants beginning in mid-February. The Club Selectors, Debra Brown, Darren Connolly, and Anthony Brown, are eying-off prospective players, and already more than 60 names are on the nomination list. Players not already listed, are urged to place their names on the designated sheet on the club’s noticeboard.
JUNIOR BOWLS
The Friday evening “Rookie Roller” program for young bowlers concluded last week. The initiative proved to be highly-popular and successful, with an average
attendance of more than 10 children for the seven-week period. Bowls’ Manager, Anthony Brown, thanked the many volunteers who assisted over that time, including Debra Brown, Kelly Dart, Steve Ryan, Steve Robinson, Mick Smith, John Rodis, and Glenn Morrison. Special mention also to Club chef, Anna, for providing delicious snacks for the kids each week. The Club Committee is seriously considering staging the program again next year, beginning in March.
CLUB LOCKERS
All members with club lockers are requested to clear them out before Christmas, as Club House extensions are due to begin early in the New Year. All lockers will be relocated as a part of this process.
SOCIAL BOWLS
The East versus West Challenge was held last Sunday, with the West side reclaiming the trophy
after a two-year mini-drought. Bruce Baker’s East team didn’t go down without a fight, however, losing by a wafer-thin 135 shots to 131. Teams to excel on the morning, were Steve Evans, Marg Rich, and Michael Smith (Wests) and Mark Collin, Steve Ryan, and Phil Morrow (Easts). Gai Morrison, John Silk, and Ricco Lane (Wests) and Bruce Baker, Tanya Drewitt, and Bev Goss (Easts) also figured in the prize-money. Tracey Silk wowed the officials as the “bestdressed” player on the green.
Last Wednesday, Hela Bryan, Helen Davis, and Roger Braintree took home a ham each, when they accounted for the large field, eager for their Christmas fare. Runners-up were Laura Norda and
Contributed by GRAHAM ROSS, CLUB PRESIDENT
TOTAL of 36 RSL combination bowlers turned-out on Sunday to enjoy their last game for 2024. Whilst it was very hot, players managed to complete a full 16 ends without any major mishaps, with a few drinks and snacks to end the year enjoyed by all.
Friday’s social bowls’ winners. In second place, Albert Ross and Warren Pease. The Lucky Draw money went to Beau Tighe.
This Sunday, December 22, a good number of members are travelling to Peak Hill for a special bowls’ visit. Industrious Club Dubbo Bowls’ Manager, Anthony Brown, has full details of the day and travel arrangements.
Social bowls for the year will also end this Friday, December 20, and resume in the New Year on Wednesday, January 8.
$3500, whilst Friday’s badge draw is $8000.
COMING-UP
Sunday December 22 – Peak Hill Bowling Club visit
As this is the final West Dubbo bowls’ news for the year, we wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas. We hope to be back with you with more exciting bowls’ news early in 2025. Thought for the Week – “The problem with automatic cars is that they are still being driven by manual brains.” (PK Shaw)
Winners for the day were Chris Castlehouse, Bryan O’Sullivan, and Peter Sinclair (on a countback) going back to the last five ends, with the Michael Strawhan, Mel Giddings, and Graham Ross the second-placed runners-up Third place-getters on the day were Cheryl Storch, Ruth Shanks, and Peter McKechnie, while the Resters were Leo Balstad and John Kennedy. Lucky numbers drawn were drawn by Gordon Scott, Phil Knight, and John Kennedy
The Combination Bowls Committee wishes all members a very happy Christmas, stay healthy and safe, with a special shout-out to Club Secretary, Peter Ruzans who is still currently in hospital. We look forward to welcoming you all back on Sunday, January 5.
Contributed by DUBBO CITY BOWLS
RESULTS of last Tuesday’s Social Bowls for the Betty Martin Pink Day – with a total of 21 ladies on the greens – were as follows:
Winners: Kerri Dickson and Merrill O’Sullivan defeated Libby Buck and Karen Greenhalgh.
Runner Up: Helen Doran and Colleen Ryan defeated Sue McCauley, Helen Emblen, and Judy O’Connor.
Third Place: Veronica Morgan, Margaret Livermore, and Laurace Lawson defeated Christine Castlehouse, Ruby Stockings, and Therese Gaio.
Fourth Place: Gai Teale, Pat Sherwin, and Annette McMillan defeated Gai Teale, Julie Brown, and Trish Gosper.
Resters: Gai Teale, Laurace Lawson, Veronica Morgan, and Margaret Livermore.
Lucky Draw Winners: Colleen Ryan and Sue McCauley.
In the Wednesday Men’s Social held a week earlier, a total of 30 bowlers took to the synthetics with scores as follows:
Winners: Paul Goodstat, Rob Pfieffer, and Brian Coffey defeated Paddy O’Dea, Steve Kelly, and Ian Hobson.
Runner Up: Paul Wooldridge, Greg Brown, and John Cole defeated Ron Anderson, Col Teale, and Alan Andriske.
Third Place: Alan Parker, Alan Stratford, and Col Cottee defeated Dennis Crimmins, Tod O’Dea, and Warren Towney.
Fourth Place: Ernie Tink, Eric Satchell, and Greg Hough defeated Rick O’Dea, Tre-
vor Tink, and Doug Back.
Fifth Place: Leo Balstad, Mel Giddings, and Neil Hayburn defeated Dick Whittaker, John McKenzie, and Doug Aldis
Resters: John Cole; closest game, Fifth Place; the Jackpot of $288 was not won; while the Sponsor of the Week was Walkom Bros of Dubbo.
Thursday Mixed Bowls for the first week of December, was washed out.
In the first Saturday in December, the Mid-west Regional Sectional Play had the following results. In the Women’s Open Singles, Michelle Harkin defeated Linda Mc-
Fadden (Orange City) and, in the final, Michelle Harkin defeated Carmen McDonnell and now progresses to the Mid-West Region Play-Offs
In the Senior Women’s Singles, Beryl Hobson defeated by Beverley Margery in the Final.
In the Men’s Open Singles, Section One, Ben Sutton defeated Greg Herbert, but was defeated by Richard Clarke in the Semi-Final. In other games, Jordan Morrow defeated Anthony Brown (on a forfeit) and was then defeated by Ricco Lane in the Semi-Final.
Richard Clarke also defeated Warren Towney and then Ricco Lane in the Final, he now progresses to the Mid-West Region Play-Offs
In Section Two, Victor Brooks defeated Mark Watton, then defeated Liam Morrow in the Semi-Final, but was defeated by Duane Faro in the final. Duane now progresses to the Mid-West Region Play-Offs On the Notice-Board, Ladies and Men’s Major Singles are up for nomination, as are the Ladies and Men’s Minor Singles and Pairs.
By DALLAS REEVES
KELSEY Bennett thrived during a dramatic closing nine holes at Dubbo Golf Club to secure a place at next year Women’s NSW Open Golf Championship in Wollongong, winning the Dubbo regional qualifier by two shots last Tuesday (December 10).
Remarkably, Bennett was one of only two players to score under par in the second and final round, the other being Amelia Mehmet Grohn who finished in a four-way tie for 10th.
Bennett (-3) followed up her first round 70 (-2) with a strong final round score of 71 (-1).
Starting the final day one shot off the overnight leaders, Bennett started beautifully with a birdie three on the par four first.
She then parred eight holes straight to go out in 35.
The stretch home was more eventful as Bennett, from Mollymook, hit birdies on the 10th and 14th holes, but had bogeys on the 11th, 13th and 16th.
However, a birdie three on the par-four 17th to take the lead was crucial in her success as Bennett (70, 71: 141) won by two shots from three players, including Jeongmin (Cecilia) Cho (Republic of Korea) and Kathryn Norris who both shot 71 and 72 (143) across the 36 holes to finish at -1.
Overnight leader Danni Vasquez Boyd (Illawarra) was
the other player to finish in the three-way tie for second at -1 after her final round 74.
Vasquez Boyd and Queensland’s Jordan O’Brien were the overnight leaders after opening three-under-par rounds of 69, but O’Brien hit 78 last Tuesday to finish in a tie for four-way tie sixth at +3 (147).
The 24-year-old Bennett finished three under par to secure her third win of the year – and her first on home soil in NSW.
The win came after a rollercoaster of a day, with the leaderboard constantly shifting.
By the closing stretch, it was a head-to-head battle between Bennett and Vasquez-Boyd.
However, two bogeys on the last two holes proved costly for Vasquez-Boyd, sealing Bennett’s victory.
“I’m absolutely stoked,” Bennett told Golf NSW after lifting the trophy.
“It’s really nice to have a third win for the year.”
For Bennett, the win was especially meaningful as it marked her first triumph in her home state.
“It’s definitely really special. Being from a part of regional NSW myself (South Coast), it’s really nice to support the local towns and come out here and find myself a winner,” she said.
Bennett was delighted to be bound for Wollongong where the Women’s NSW Open is to be held.
“I’m stoked. I grew up playing
a lot of golf there, so I’m really looking forward to it,” she said.
Joining Bennett in securing a spot at the NSW Open was Cecilia Cho, who claimed the second qualifying position after a countback.
Cho finished tied for second on one under par alongside Kathryn Norris and VasquezBoyd, but edged ahead with her strong back-nine performance.
“I feel very lucky to get this position,” Cho told Golf NSW.
“This was a good opportunity to check my game because I know the course and what shots I needed to hit. I kind of fought back with some birdies on the back nine, and yeah, I’m just feeling lucky to be in this position.”
Two of 12 qualification positions for next year’s Women’s NSW Open Golf Championship at Wollongong were up for grabs at Dubbo Golf Club as the par-72 course hosted event four of the Women’s NSW Open Regional Open Qualifying Series on December 9 and 10.
Dubbo GC was one of six regional courses hand-picked by Golf NSW to each host 36 holes of qualifying action through November and December.
The prize money purse was $50,000 at each qualifying event, along with the two leading eligible finishers at each tournament also qualifying for the 2025 Women’s NSW Open at Wollongong Golf Club.
Jeongmin (Cecilia) Cho (-1, tied for second) earned direct qualification for next year’s Women’s NSW Open at last week’s Women’s NSW Open Championship Regional Open Qualifying
Jordan O’Brien was the equal overnight leader at last week’s Women’s NSW Open Championship Regional Open Qualifying Series at Dubbo Golf Club before finishing in a four-way tie for sixth at +3.
By DALLAS REEVES
EXCELLENT course conditions, strong local support and enthusiastic membership made Dubbo Golf Club (GC) an ideal location to host one of six regional qualifying tournaments for next year’s Women’s NSW Open, according to Nicole Martin who is Manager Tournaments at Golf NSW.
Dubbo Golf Club was handpicked alongside courses at Mollymook, Wagga Wagga (Country Club), Narrabri, Bathurst and Orange (Duntryleague) to host a qualifier, meaning it ranks as one of the better courses in regional NSW.
The Women’s NSW Open Championship Regional Open Qualifying Series qualifiers began at Mollymook Golf Club on November 6 and 7. It continued at Wagga Wagga Country Club (November 21-22) and Narrabri Golf Club (December 5-6) before finishing across the Central West with consecutive events at Dubbo GC (December 9-10), Bathurst GC (December 1213) and Orange’s Duntryleague Golf Club on December 16-17.
Two players at each event qualify to compete in the 2025 Women’s NSW Open at Wollongong Golf Club from March 20 to 23 next year.
The prize money purse is also $50,000 at each qualifying event.
Asked what attracted Golf NSW to use Dubbo GC as one of six regional venues, Martin pointed to “excellent course conditions, strong local support, and enthusiastic membership”.
“Dubbo Golf Club is an ideal venue for regional qualifiers,” she said.
“The town itself offers a welcoming atmosphere for both players and spectators, making it an outstanding choice for this event.”
Martin added the course also has unique aspects to challenge elite players.
“The course presents a significant challenge due to its tree-lined fairways, which demand precision and accuracy,” she said.
“Success at Dubbo requires not only length but also strategic
placement of shots.
NSW Open Championship Regional Open Qualifying Series at Dubbo Golf Club.
“Recent rainfall has reduced the amount of run players would ordinarily get when playing the course at this time of year.
“The small subtle breaks in the greens make it difficult for players to gain an understanding of the line which their putts will take.”
Martin concluded by adding this event is part of the six-strong series that Golf NSW operates in collaboration with Destination NSW.
The goal of both organisations is to “boost tourism while providing golfers from around the coun-
try and world with opportunities to qualify for the prestigious Ford Women’s NSW Open”.
“The regional qualifiers are being live-streamed to increase the sport’s visibility and encourage more participation,” Martin said.
“Two players from each qualifier, provided they aren’t already exempt, will earn a spot in the 2025 Ford Women’s NSW Open.
“The competition features a diverse range of high-calibre players, including those with international tournament experience and wins.”
Graeme Phillipson, chief operating officer at Golf NSW, said on the Women’s NSW Open website that the tournaments provide a welcome economic boost to the host venues and their surrounding communities.
“The Regional Open Series benefits not just the clubs but also the local economies,” Phillipson said.
“Players, along with their teams and fans, bring in business for accommodation providers, restaurants and local attractions.”
Olivia Wilson, general Manager of golf at Golf NSW, said that the regional open qualifying series provides a fantastic platform for aspiring female professionals and elite amateurs to launch their 2024/25 summer golf campaign.
“These tournaments present a tremendous opportunity for rising stars to elevate their careers and secure their spot in one of the country’s premier championships,” Wilson said.
New Zealand’s Wenyung Keh (even par, 72, 72: 144) won at Mollymook, while St Michael’s (Sydney) golfer Clair Shin lit up Wagga Wagga Country Club, shooting 67 and 65 (132) to finish at 14-under to win there by three shots.
At Narrabri, South Australian Caitlin Peirce won with rounds of 69 and 68 (137) to finish five-under par at the par 71 Narrabri course. Remarkably, it was just her third professional event.
Sixteen-year-old Godiva Kim from Queensland won the Regional Qualifying Event at
Golf Club.
