Dubbo Photo News 27.02.2025

Do you have a nickname? No, I don’t have one!

Where did you grow up? In Sydney – I lived my early years at Ramsgate and was a real water baby who went swimming every afternoon in the summer. My sister and I used to find bottles and redeem them to buy ice-creams.

Why did you move to Dubbo? I retired to Dubbo in 2014 as I needed to be nearer to medical services. I trained as a nurse at the Royal Prince Alfred in Sydney in 1958-1962. In my firstyear holidays I travelled to Gulargambone with a friend and met her older brother Ernie – we started to date. I then spent a year in Broken Hill to study midwifery and then married Ernie. We lived in Gulargambone where Ernie assisted in managing a farm for 10 years, and we had four children. I completed some casual work at the hospital and started some refresher courses and further training. In 1994 I became the Director of Nursing, and then in the late 1990s I became the Health Service Manager. I have always encouraged and supported staff to keep training and updating their skills. After my husband’s death, I left work, and a few years later I was elected onto the Coonamble Council as a Councillor.

What have you enjoyed about living in our region? I spent time volunteering as part of Two Eight Two Eight which is a community tourism project located in Gulargambone. I have many wonderful memories, especially the Dinner Under the Stars events. It was also wonderful to help establish the Rural Transaction Centre and petrol station in Gulargambone. I have really enjoyed working as part of a team to help encourage growth and development in our region. In 2014, it was an honour to receive an OAM for service to the Gulargambone community.

What do you like to do in your spare time? I mostly read. I spend a lot of time now volunteering and working with Vinnies, University of the Third Age (U3A), Country Women’s Association (CWA) and Combined Pensioners & Superannuants Association (CPSA).

If you could do anything and be anywhere, what would you be doing? I think I am happy with my present life.

What are you watching at the moment? Reruns of Doc Martin. What would you be lost without? My car.

What music do you like to listen to? Easy listening.

Favourite song of all time? Eagle’s Wings by Hillsong Worship.

If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you bring with you? Three good books.

What is your all-time favourite movie? Bridget Jones’s Diary.

If there was a movie all about you, what genre would it be and who would play you? A comedy starring Renée Zellweger.

Chasing the sun, STEM and sponsors: ANU solar race team visits Dubbo

By SHARON BONTHUYS

DUBBO was the second-last stop on an innovative tour of regional NSW by students from the Australian National University (ANU), testing their solar race car in preparation to enter the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge in August.

Never heard of the World Solar Challenge? You’re not alone.

Many Australians don’t know about the iconic “race” from Darwin to Adelaide that takes place every two years involving energy-efficient electric vehicles (EVs) that teams design, engineer and make themselves. It has been running since 1987 and has been the subject of numerous documentaries and a feature film, “Race the Sun” (1996).

Many teams competing in the World Solar Challenge comprise students from universities and high schools – just like the ANU team who are seasoned hands at the biennial race, the university having entered several times over the years.

Regional community showcase

The Regional Showcase builds on the community outreach events the ANU team has run locally in Canberra and enables the team to test new and improved elements of its 2025 solar race car ahead of this year’s big race.

A 24-strong team of university students left Canberra on Sunday, February 16, on the inaugural NSW Regional Community Showcase tour to Wagga Wagga, Griffith, Bathurst, Orange, and Dubbo, arriving here on Friday, February 21.

Along the way, the team hosted hands-on workshops at local schools and community centres, encouraging young people to consider a future in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, better known as STEM.

The tour concluded on February 23, with track testing at Transport for NSW’s world-class safety and sustainability testing centre at Cudal, west of Orange – the Future Mobility Transport and Research Centre. Stop-off at St Johns

The Dubbo Photo News was invited along to the Dubbo visit, which was held at St Johns College.

ANU team members, all undergraduate students, introduced the very keen St Johns’ students to the trimaran-design solar-powered race

vehicle.

Electrical Team Lead David Wilson worked on the battery component of the vehicle and is very proud to be involved in the completely student-run project.

“It was amazing to get to work on it from the ground up,” he said.

“Everything in this car was made by us students – designed, engineered and fully-built.”

The team also delivered information sessions about careers in STEM subjects, participating in the World Solar Challenge, and activities to test students’ thinking.

ANU Solar Racing’s Business Lead, student Cameron Wallace, explained why the vehicle has a trimaran (two front wheels, one rear wheel) design.

“It’s very stable in the crosswinds, which, when we enter Coober Pedy and that stretch of the activity, the crosswinds get very bad, especially around Port Augusta,” Cameron said.

“Flipping is an issue,” he added, indicating it was one of the design specifications to take into consideration when developing the vehicle, which can work up to a top speed of 110km/hr during the week-long race down the centre of Australia.

Sponsorship sought

The EV technology makes developing and building – then racing EVs – a very expensive exercise, costing around $400,000, Cameron said.

ANU partnered with Origin 360 EV for the inaugural Regional NSW Community Showcase. Origin provided EVs to transport the team, demonstrating the viability and reliability of EVs for regional driving.

“We want people to know that EVs can support their day-to-day requirements and transport them long distances, and we look forward to showcasing that through this tour, “said Origin spokesperson David Helmy.

Grateful for this support, Cameron is also very keen to connect with regional businesses and organisations interested in sponsoring the ANU Solar Racing team for the 2025 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge in the last week of August. To connect with the team, visit the ANU Solar Racing website.

For more information about the almost-40-year-old event which promoted the use of solar-powered EVs long before it became topical, visit the World Solar Challenge website.

SHAKESPEARE FUNERALS

Valentine’s Day... love notes and sweet treats

By SHARON BONTHUYS

Church Street Café went all-out for Valentine’s Day recently offering patrons the opportunity to write love notes to their “crushes” and tempting them with sweet treats on Friday, February 14.

Some patrons took-up the pen provided and wrote love notes to special people in their lives, and some expressed their love for “the beautiful staff at CSC”.

Staff member Payton was the genius behind the Valentine’s Day snacks, which included pink-iced heart-shaped shortbread sugar cookies and gluten free cake pops.

There were just a dozen or so cookies remaining at the counter when the Dubbo Photo News stopped by just before 11 am.

“I made 40 of them and this is all that’s left,” Payton said. Did you do anything special on Valentine’s Day? Drop Dubbo Photo News a line and a photo, if you have one to share.

Dubbo residents to march for a cure for melanoma – and help save lives

A DUBBO woman who will complete her third Melanoma March next month has shared a powerful message ahead of this year’s event.

Jena Squires didn’t see her melanoma diagnosis coming. The 38-year-old has experienced multiple melanomas – one on her leg six years ago and more recently on her face and back, requiring surgical removal.

“When I was 35, I never thought to check my skin, even though I spent a lot of time in the sun growing up on the mid-north coast,” Jena explained.

“My melanoma diagnosis came as a shock because you realise it can affect anyone, regardless of age,” she added.

Australia has the highest melanoma rates in the world. One person is diagnosed with melanoma every 30 minutes and one person dies from the disease every six hours. It is the most common

cancer affecting 20–39-year-old Australians.

Regular skin checks are important to help detect changes in the skin.

“It’s so important to pay attention to any changes in your skin –no matter your age or what it looks like,” Jenna warned.

“If something doesn’t look right, even if it seems minor, go and get it checked,” she added.

“I hope that by marching, this message will reach Australians and, at the same time, raise funds for research so we can find a cure for this deadly disease.”

DUBBO EVENT - MARCH 8

The Melanoma Institute Australia (MIA) asks local residents to join Jena on March 8 to participate in Dubbo Melanoma March.

Departing from the riverbank foreshore, the event will help raise awareness and funds to save lives

from melanoma and skin cancers. Now in its 14th year, Melanoma March participants walk or run at family-friendly events across the country during the month of March. Dubbo’s event is one of 28 events to be held nationally in 2025. This year’s campaign also highlights the dangers of tanning and urges Australians to follow sun safe practices.

The Australian Skin Cancer Foundation’s (ASCF) iconic “skin check truck” will also be in Dubbo to support Melanoma March, and will provide free skin checks for registered participants who book in after registering.

Melanoma March Dubbo will be held on Saturday, March 8, departing from the riverbank foreshore, and further details are available on the Melanoma March website. The event is proudly supported by ASCF, Melanoma Patients Australia, and Australian Melanoma Research Foundation.

ORISCON Brings Culture and Celebration to Dubbo in 2025

SOUTHS CARES VISITS DUBBO

By KEN SMITH

‘Souths

Cares’ Schools Program

Delivery visited Dubbo and Wellington schools last week delivering some important messages and having fun.

Their day in Dubbo was enjoyed by over 600 students from a number of local schools including St John’s College, Orana Heights Public School, St Mary’s Primary School, Dubbo College Delroy Campus, and Dubbo West Public School, where these photos were taken.

Souths Cares is an independent not-for-profit public benevolent institution, closely af iated with the South Sydney Rabbitohs Football Club, who support disadvantaged, marginalised and indigenous youth and families with a specific focus on education, training, health, and employment.

hhome WELCOME

Join us for our New Resident Event, where you can find out more about the Dubbo Region - your new home! The event will be held from 5:30pm to 7:30pm on Monday 10 March 2025 at the Western Plains Cultural Centre, 76 Wingewarra Street Dubbo.

Enjoy light refreshments and games while meeting other members of the community you now call home.

For more information our Dubbo Visitor can find out more about the your new home! The event will be held Dubbo of home

For more information phone our Dubbo Visitor Information Centre on 1800 674 443, or scan the QR code to register your attendance. RSVP is essential. RSVP by Friday 7 March 2025.

A vision for a fair and just society

By

THE Dubbo branch of the Combined Pensioners & Superannuants Association (CPSA) met recently for a social gathering with special guest speaker Bill Stanford presenting about his travels throughout North Korea. The group regularly provides access to affordable social activities and the opportunity to participate in local community events, as well as personal support in times of need.

CPSA is a non-profit, non-party-polit-

superannuants, and low-income retirees.

CPSA receives funding support from the New South Wales Government.

The association aims to improve the standard of living and well-being of its members and constituents. They also strive to promote and advocate for the well-being of members with lobbying for the retentive of cash, low-cost housing and fair access to adequate transport. New members are always welcome with membership available for those who

agree with the objectives and core policies for a reasonable annual fee. CPSA is well informed of the needs, aspirations, and concerns of its members and constituents. CPSA through its executive, area council, branches, and staff liaises with governments at all levels, community organisations and the media to promote its objectives, policies, activities and services.

Join Combined Pensioners & Superannuants Association today to be a part of local, state and federal campaigns on issues that are important to you!

HARLEY HEAVEN AND LOCAL CHARITIES BENEFIT

By KEN SMITH

A big afternoon at the Garden Hotel recently with the draw of the Harley Davidson organised by the Garden Hotel Fishing Club.

As the photos show, a number of local charities were presented with generous cheques to continue their wonderful local work.

600 tickets were sold and as well as the Harley Davidson, there were a number of prizes drawn, so who won the Harley Davidson? Congratulations to John Colwell and his partner Katrina and congratulations and well done to the Garden Hotel Fishing Club.

BIRTHDAYS THIS WEEK

Feb 27: Joanne Woodward, US ac tress, 95. Robert de Castella , marathon runner, 68. Peter Andre, singer, 52. Chelsea Clinton, Bill and Hillary’s daughter, 45. Scott Prince, footy player, 45. Josh Groban, US singer, 44. Brett Stewart, footy player, 40.

Feb 28: Tamie Fraser, wife of former PM, 89. Mario Andretti, Italian racing car driver, 85. Bruce Baird, former politician, 83. Bernadette Peters, US actress-singer, 77. Mark Latham, politician, 64. Rodger Corser, actor, 52.

Feb 29 leap year births: Tony Robbins, motivational speaker, 65. Guy Leech, Ironman surf lifesaving champion, 61. Frank Woodley, Aussie comedian, 57. Ja Rule, rapper and actor, 49. Sean Abbott, cricketer, 33. Mar 1: Roger Daltrey, British singer; The Who, 81. Leigh Matthews, Australian footballer, 73. Rod Reddy, footy player, 71. Ron Howard, US actor-director, 71. Will Power, motorsport driver, 44. Ke$ha , US singer, 38. Nathan Brown, footy player, 32. Justin Bieber, Canadian singer, 31. Mar 2: Jeff Kennett, former Victorian premier; beyondblue founder, 77. Jon Bon Jovi US rock singer, 63. Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister, 62.

Daniel Craig , English actor, 57. Sally Sara , journalist, 54. Hayley Lewis, swimmer, 51. Chris Martin, British singer of Coldplay, 48. Matthew Mitcham, diver, 37. Josh McGuire, footy player, 35.

Mar 3: Bill Heffernan, Junee-born politician, 82. Miranda Richardson, British actress, 67. Tone-Loc , US rapper, 59. Julie Bowen, US actress, 55. Ronan Keating Irish pop singer, 48. Jessica Biel , US actress, 43. Mar 4: Lindy Chamberlain-Creighton, mother of baby Azaria, 77. Barrie Cassidy, former ABC journalist and personal press secretary for Prime Minister Bob Hawke, 75. Chris Rea , British singer, 74. Ray Price, footy player, 72. Karen Knowles, singer, 61. Steve Bastoni, actor, 59. Michael Cheika , rugby coach and former player, 58. Geoff Huegill , swimmer, 46. Mar 5: Mike Walsh, TV personality, 87. Mem Fox , author, 79. Jennifer Byrne, TV personality, 70. Nicole Pratt, tennis player, 52. Eva Mendes, US actress, 51. Fifi Box , TV/radio presenter, 48. Jordy Lucas, Neighbours actress, 33.

A Stylish Celebration: Nash & Taylor Rodda’s Wedding Look

When Nash & Taylor Rodda planned their wedding, they turned to Harry’s for expert styling to achieve the perfect lifestyle wedding look. With a pop of color to complement the bridesmaids’ dresses, their outfits balanced sophistication and modern charm. Nash and his groomsmen - Bailey, Harley, William & Brett looked effortlessly stylish in cream linen jackets from Uberstone – offering the ideal fit for a young, contemporary look. Paired with classic navy City Club chinos, the ensemble was both refined and versatile, ensuring the pieces could be worn beyond the wedding day.

To add a distinctive touch, Nash stood out from his groomsmen by wearing a navy vest, creating a subtle yet elegant point of difference. The result? A wedding look that was timeless, stylish, and perfectly coordinated for their special day.

Charlie

& Montana Redden’s Elegant Black-Tie Wedding

Charlie and Montana Redden’s wedding was nothing short of stunning, with a timeless blackand-white theme that exuded pure elegance. The bridal party was a vision of sophistication, perfectly complementing the grandeur of the occasion.

Charlie, along with Sam, Angus, Alex, and Joe, showcased impeccable style, proving that they can certainly wear a suit well. Opting for a classic blacktie dress code, the groom and his party donned striking black suits and ties, making a statement of refined charm.

Charlie chose a 100per cent Merino wool Savile Row suit with a peak lapel, paired with a royal dinner shirt and satin bow tie – a sensational ensemble that ensured the bridal party remained the center of attention. Their polished and timeless look set the perfect tone for an evening of celebration and elegance.

Correctional Centre wants tradies to join skilled workforce

By LANA EATHER

WELLINGTON’S Macquarie Correctional Centre is on the hunt for qualified tradespeople to take on positions with the Corrective Services Industries (CSI). An open day will be held for interested tradespeople on Saturday, March 1. This open day will allow an inside view of the maximum-security men’s prison and show eligible candidates work-life behind bars as prison overseers.

The prison at Wuuluman on the outskirts of Wellington is hoping to allow interested applicants to see the busy industries in action and encourage qualified tradies to take up well-paid positions with the Corrective Services Industries.

Acting Governor Paul Rzepecki encouraged consideration of a prison career: “A prison career isn’t usually the first or obvious employment option, but they can present surprisingly varied and rewarding career pathways. The reality is working as an overseer allows you deliver practical skills and training to inmates, which could ultimately change the course of their life,” Mr Rzepecki said.

“Overseers not only impart their knowledge and skills, they lead our CSI business units, help inmates to develop a strong work ethic in an industry environment and support inmates to gain meaningful trade traineeships and qualifications.”

Acting Head of Corrective Services Industries Peter Mason came to Wellington Correctional Centre in 2009, and has worked at Macquarie Correctional Centre since its opening in 2017.

“I came here with a plan of staying for five years, and I am still here. The level of inmate engagement in the industries and programs we have here is amazing. Inmates are given transferable skills, and an opportunity to participate in training and further qualifications. We have had two participants in our product design hub go on to work in architecture after their release.

“Our Design Hub has also designed some of the anti-ligature, tamper-resistant correctional furniture used within correctional complexes, and many of the light and heavy industry products. We have eight overseer positions available spread across a variety of industries including light- and heavy-engineering, furniture workshop, laundry, café, cleaning, and grounds and facilities maintenance.”

Suitable candidates will be required to

complete 12 weeks of primary training as custodial officers including learning policies and participating in weapons training and drills. Training is scheduled to begin on-site at Wellington Correctional Centre in the coming months.

After years working in engineering workshops, machinist David Cullen wanted a change of pace and better pay, but struggled to find many employment alternatives near Wellington. Almost eight years into the job, the Macquarie Correctional Centre overseer said taking that leap of faith was one of the best decisions he’s ever made.

“They were advertising for all types of overseers at the time and I thought there was no harm trying it out to see if I like it,” David said. “It was a bit daunting at first, not knowing what it’s like inside prison and if I was going to end up in a violent situation, but once I started training, I realised everyone was a bit nervous and we actually ended up having a lot of fun.”

Since 2017, David has been running the centre’s laundry operations, which is responsible for washing all inmate clothing and bedding, as well as fulfilling external laundry contracts. On any given day he’s managing the logistics of washing schedules, inmate employment, stocktakes, machine maintenance and quality control, but takes the most job satisfaction from the people he works with.

“I really like the guys I work with, which makes a difference, and the inmates are good to work with too. I treat people how I would want to be treated and it works well for me. Our job is to help the inmates get through their time and try to rehabilitate them, and in my 7.5 years I’ve never had any issues with them.”

David said with the good pay and job stability, more qualified tradies should consider joining the Macquarie Correctional Centre team. “I’d tell anyone thinking about it to give it go. I didn’t know what to expect but I gave it a go and it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made – I’m really happy here.”

Corrective Services Industries operates more than 120 commercial business units and 60+ service industries in NSW correctional centres, where inmates learn important skills and gain trade qualifications to help them gain employment upon release.

Interested candidates can contact recruitment company Spinifex or visit the company’s website for further details.

Miley Poppy

Schloeff el

Born 08/02/2025

Weight 4230g

Parents Amba

Longmore and Mark Schloeffel Dubbo

Grandparents Grech

Perritt and Tim Longmore, Mark Schloeffel (deceased) all of Dubbo

the of inspiring imagination through

Nature’s Academy PowerPlay

With childcare facilities now at a premium in the Orana region, Nature’s Academy is proud to announce the grand opening of its newest ear-

With the theme of “Inspiring Imagination” the new centre features cutting-edge facilities and expan-

to offer young children a world-class educational experience in a nurturing, spacious, and nature-inspired

al care and tailored learning experi-

dren feel inspired, safe and nurtured –a home away from home for families,”

communication, community, passion, education, respect, inclusion and

lationships with children and families,

experience that truly makes a differ-

In addition to thoughtfully designed classrooms, the outdoor areas are spectacular, featuring sensory garplay zones that encourage teamwork

“We’re proud to offer one of the most spacious and engaging early learning

ical window of opportunity – a time

ond; these early experiences shape a -

While academic knowledge is important, she argues, true success in life stems from emotional intelligence, resilience, teamwork, and

RetailerWeek

Looking

“While fostering these essential life skills, we seamlessly introduce early liter acy, numeracy, science, and the arts in a way that is engaging and

As a mother of a grown son,

g ife essly iterscirts in a aging and f a grown son,

preciation for the lifelong effects of the early years, led me to transition my -

e ef fects of the

ted to leading our centre with care

“I’m excited to work alongside passionate professionals, families, and the wider community to create a safe,

exciting milestone for Nature’s Academy, as it continues its journey of de-

“As we welcome new families into

plore the world around them,” Patricia holding its Open Day on Saturday, March 8, from 9am to 12 noon.

newest early learning centre in the

good, feeling better, at Orana Threadz N Beauty

It’s always the right time for ladies looking to pamper themselves at one of Dubbo’s longest established salons, Orana Threadz N Beauty.

Located opposite Big W in the Orana Mall at Shop 44/a 56 Windsor Parade, owner Sharon Kaur, says that their loyal customers keep them busy all year round.

“We do have a bit of a lull around January when everyone is on holidays, but we’re pretty much on the go for the rest of the year,” Sharon revealed.

“There’s no time of the year when people don’t want to look their best, and that’s what we’re here for,” she added.

Now in their sixth year at the Mall, Threadz offers the full range of modern beauty treatments ranging from lash extensions, body waxing, hand-tinting, henna tattoos, temporary tattoos, micro-blading, micro-balding, shading, and cosmetic tattooing.

They are also offering a special rate on one of those classic beau-

ty treatment that all women love to indulge in.

“We’re offering a 15 per cent discount on facials at the moment,” Sharon said.

“This offer will remain for the next couple of weeks to any customers, you can either book or walk in,” she added.

Always busy, Sharon adds that

looking your best is a process, not a destination.

“Looking good, feeling better, taking care of your beauty, it simply makes you feel more confident,” Sharon said.

“And that goes for all year round, there’s no need to take a holiday from looking your best,” she concluded.

Proud sponsors of the 2025 TRADIES BALL LL

Loud voice and

A heart of gold

MC Matt doing his bit for Ball

By DAVID DIXON

OUTGOING local auctioneer, Matt Hansen has both a loud, commanding voice, and a heart of gold.

Self-made local success story in a very real sense, he’s now doing his bit to help one of the Central West’s great charities, Tradies in Sight, by acting as Master of Ceremonies for our inaugural Tradies Ball.

As everyone knows, having a good “MC” is the key to success at any formal event, and Matt is the man doing the honours for the Saturday, March 29, Dubbo RSL Memorial Club extravaganza.

Long-time supporter of the local notfor-profit which utilises traditional barbecues, drop-ins, and casual get-togethers to discuss working men and women’s mental health, he was only too glad to help.

Based at their “Insight Shed” in Welchman Street, the group – and founded by carpenter-turned-counsellor, Bruno Efoti – offers counselling and support for demographic groups that are not typically known for reaching-out for help.

“I’ve always been a big supporter of Bruno’s work, so when ball organiser Sally Young asked me if I could help out, I was only too glad,” Matt explained.

“I’m a realtor, Matt Hansen Real Estate, and I’m also a licensed auctioneer, and Tradies in Sight is such a great cause,” he added.

With a strong sense of community, this is not the first non-profit that Matt has supported over the years. He has also spent years fund-raising for a riverine renewal and rehabilitation group.

“I’ve been a passionate volunteer for In-

land Waterways, which has taken me all around the world.

“This included the World Recreational Fishing Conference, we’ve raised close to a million dollars for the campaign,” Matt said.

In this he spent a decade tirelessly fund-raising to help restore our eroded and contaminated inland waterways.

“We started with a very small raffle at the Lake Burrendong Class cars and karts, and raised hundreds of thousands of dollars.

“It began when I learnt how much damage has been done to our rivers, you would be amazed and horrified,” Matt said.

But being a doer rather than a complainer, he has now been involved in a series of major renewal projects for our riverine habitats.

“We’ve put thousands of fingerlings (infant fish) into the river to replenish native populations,” Matt said.

“We’ve also got a ‘river repair bus’, a coaster and planted 10,000 trees as well as removing 150 trailer-loads of rubbish from our waterways.”

Through his work as one of Dubbo’s premier property agents, he has also been a strong supporter of Bruno and Jo Efoti’s unique initiative from near its creation in 2018.

“I support Tradies in Sight, massively! As I sell and manage hundreds of rental properties in Dubbo each year, I have tradies flying in and out of my office all the time.

“I see the fine work they do and the sort of pressures to get work done on time with so much building going on locally,” Matt explained.

Not one to sit idly by, he again put his hand up to help – through Tradies’ fine work – individuals in the industry locally.

“I do, I was honoured by Bruno to do a series of trade talks with young apprentices at the local TAFE, because only about 30 to 40 per cent of young apprentices end-up finishing their trade.

“My message was, ‘stick with it, it may seem hard, but there’s light at the end of the tunnel’,” Matt said.

From a single parent family himself, Matt understands more than most, the importance of persistence in pursuing your goals.

“I started as a junior sign boy, placing the ‘for Sale‘ signs around on properties

for Ray White Real Estate,

“Now I own my own agency, and sell a 100 properties a year and renting hundreds, my message is, ‘from little things, big things grow’,” Matt said.

His own experiences have also highlighted to him the fine work that Bruno and Jo Efoti do, in devoting their lives to helping others through Tradies in Sight.

“Definitely, they do great work, and I’m only too happy to help-out at the Tradies Ball,” Matt enthused.

“These things aren’t easy, and they don’t run themselves,” he concluded.

Dubbo’s inaugural Tradies Ball is on Saturday, March 29, at Dubbo RSL Memorial Club.

Classic rock’n’roll, “Ballz n All”

the

perfect fit  for inaugural Tradies fun

By DAVID DIXON

COBAR-BASED rockers, Ballz n All, are the perfect fit for getting into the swing of Dubbo’s inaugural Tradies Ball on Saturday, March 29.

Led by frontman, Degen Brown the region’s top rock-and-roll dance band are gaining a reputation for being one of the most energetic and in demand outfits in country NSW with one critic describing them as “Musically sharp as a razor! What a blast!”

On the dance floor, Ballz n All are guaranteed to get you jumping and jiving to some of the great classics of modern music, bass guitarist, Mark Kotynia explained.

“We do all the typical type of stuff, we’re just sort of classic pub rock that everyone enjoys dancing to,” Mark explained.

“We’re talking about The Angels, AC/DC, Bon Jovi, the Screaming Jets, and Creedence Clearwater Revival, all the hits that people love,” he added.

A classic four-piece rock ensemble, Degen is supported by a crew of high-quality musicians including the lovely lady on lead, Kahlia Martin (guitarist for Beccy Cole, Altiyan Childs), and Kotynia on bass guitar (Altiyan Childs, Crakajak).

The band got together initially to help-out a local event, forming briefly in 2019 for what was to be a “once-off” performance for a home-

town festival.

The community reaction to the band, however, was so overwhelming and spontaneous, that they decided to stay together and pursue more gigs.

Ballz n All now play at a range of big events and major race meets in the region, including the Duck Creek Races (previously supporting Shannon Noll, Jon Stevens, and The Choirboys), Beerfest celebrations, the Bungle Rumble Festival (previously supporting The Black Sorrows and Chocolate Starfish) and Trangie Truck and Tractor show (supporting Adam Brand).

“Every concert we do, it’s loud and pumping, we’re a high-energy act that loves performing in front of a great crowd,” Mark said.

“If it’s a Tradies Ball, there’ll be plenty of laughs, fun, and great rock music, from grandma to the grandkids, we get everyone up dancing,” he concluded.

Remember too, The Tradies Ball is all for a great cause, raising funds and awareness for for Tradies In Sight

This amazing local charity works tirelessly to improve the mental health and wellbeing of tradies across the region, so get your dancing shoes on, and trip the light fantastic at the first-ever Dubbo Tradies Ball.

 TICKETS ARE NOW AVAILABLE THROUGH 123 TIX!

The Happiest Refugee brings his own brand of laughter to Dubbo

Contributed by DRTCC

Multi-talented comedian, artist, actor, and painter, Anh Do — who chronicled his family’s desperate flight to Australia as refugees in 1980 in his renowned 2010 autobiography The Happiest Refugee — brought his unique fun show atre and Convention Centre recently.

Patrons from across the region enjoyed starting off 2025 with a smile and a laugh at the performance which mixes Anh Do’s special brand of humour, insight, and

MAJOR PRIZE GIVEAWAY

2

First

DUBBO REMEMBERS:

RESIDENTS REFLECT ON THE FLOOD

70th anniversary of 1955 flood

By SHARON BONTHUYS

AN anniversary quietly ticks over this week as the region remembers and reflects on a major natural disaster that swept across central and northern NSW, and gave birth to what we now know and appreciate as the State Emergency Service.

In late February 1955, major flooding impacted the central west and swept right across the Hunter Valley to the coast, causing the death of 25 people and widespread destruction.

Locally, the Talbragar and Macquarie rivers rose quickly in the last week of February 1955, from what has been described as a period of “monsoonal rain”.

The Talbragar River reportedly created a “dam-like” effect on the Macquarie River, inevitably spilling over onto the surrounding land, and into the then country town of Dubbo in the early hours of Friday, February 25, 1955. Other local rivers were also impacted.

While the waters did recede fairly quickly, the central business district and north Dubbo were significantly affected for several weeks.

To get an idea of just how high the water rose back then, a plaque outside the Shakespeare Funerals and Monuments building in Talbragar Street memorialises the historic event.

Wellington also was flooded, but not to the same degree as

Helen McLean, Dubbo: “An exciting adventure!”

ONE of those featured in the Macquarie Regional Library’s oral history project is Helen McLean, now 77, who sat down with the Dubbo Photo News recently to talk about her experiences living through the 1955 flood. Her parents, John and Audrey Goss, owned a popular bakery in Talbragar Street next to the Pastoral Hotel.

“The water actually came up six feet through our bakery,” Helen, a popular local civil celebrant, recalled.

“Dad was running around and in and out in a little rowboat.”

The flood was a big adventure for Helen, then just eight, who lived with her family above the bakery. When the flood hit in the middle of the night, the bakery’s woodfired brick ovens were completely destroyed.

“All the doughs had been set, the bread was all in the ovens, and then [the flood] started,” Helen said.

“All these loaves of bread were floating past in their pans,” she recalled, indicating some ended up in the floodwaters out in the street.

Dubbo. Locally, the fast-flowing Bell River rose and floodwater entered part of the central business district.

The NSW State Emergency Service was formed in the months after the 1955 flood and also commemorates its 70th anniversary this year. Local SES units are expected to be involved in different commemorative activities around the state throughout 2025.

The Burrendong Dam was finally completed in 1967, some 21 years after construction first began. It has been credited with

preventing further catastrophic flooding in the years since.

Seventy years on, ‘The Big Flood’ is still a defining moment of history for Australia, and certainly, for local communities in the central west who lived through it.

The Dubbo Photo News to a number of people and organisations about the local impact of the 1955 flood. Our sister publications in Gilgandra, Warren, and Narromine will also reflect this week on the impact of the that event in their communities.

“Free deliveries!” Helen laughed.

The family relocated, reluctantly, to a house in Fitzroy Street that was out of the flood-affected area, where they stayed for three months.

The children of the time thought the flood was a big adventure, Helen said.

“We thought it was wonderful and exciting, you know, but, but it was probably because of our age that we were thinking this was just a big, exciting adventure.”

Helen said her parents were devastated by the loss of their business.

“The brick ovens all collapsed and my parents thought, how do we get past this?” she said.

“My dad was a person who always helped others, especially people who were hungry. He always gave to everybody. So now it was his turn to ask for help.”

Help came in the form of the local fire brigade, who turned their big hoses on after the waters receded and washed all the mud away from the bakery.

“They were wonderful,” Helen said of the fire brigade.

“And Dad said, well, let’s just try again.”

The Goss family were able to find a silver lining amid the incredible devastation to their livelihood. The family rebuilt their business after the flood but upgraded and installed electric ovens which proved to be a very good business decision.

Library resources capture flood story

HELEN Thompson, Resource

Librarian at the Macquarie Regional Library in Dubbo, showed the Dubbo Photo News several original and very precious historical resources from the time, including original newspapers that chronicled how locals fared during and in the aftermath of the local floods.

“They do get brittle, and we have the [originals] on microfilm,” Helen explained.

The library itself, on the corner of Macquarie and Talbragar Streets, sits on the site of what used to be Paull’s Service Station. A blown-up black and white photo of the site well under water from the 1955

flood adorns the wall of the library’s local history storage room.

“The flood was lapping right up into Victoria Park,” she said.

The library has a collection of 75 digitised photos of the 1955 flood on its catalogue. It also has excellent resources such as the late regional history writer Marion Dormer’s definitive book, “Dubbo: City on the Plains 1901:1988” which makes several references to the 1955 flood.

“The rivers built up all day and finally the flood broke at night time when shops and business premises were closed and many people were asleep,”

Ms Dormer’s book reveals.

“Not one business or shop in the whole stretch of main shopping centre Macquarie, Talbragar, Brisbane and Church Streets missed being flooded.”

The flood struck Dubbo around 2am on Friday, February 25, 1955, with blackouts occurring as water engulfed the local electricity station.

“It all happened so quickly – so many stories of dramatic rescues could be told and so many people were involved that it is possible to record only fragments of that momentous event in Dubbo’s history,” Ms Dormer’s book states.

The Macquarie Regional Library will have a small photographic display about the 1955

flood available for viewing around the anniversary, Helen said.

The library also has an online oral history project that chronicles several residents’ personal reflections of the 1955 floods. Readers can access this via the library’s website.

The Western Plains Cultural Centre also has a local history room with similar historical resources to the library. Residents keen to walk down memory lane should contact the Dubbo Regional Council to make an appointment to speak with local history officer, Simone Taylor, about available resources.

RESIDENTS REFLECT ON THE FLOOD

John Leach, Dubbo:

“North Dubbo decimated”

JOHN Leach was roused from his sleep by his mum when the flood hit Dubbo in the early hours of February 25, 1955. The young man and others had been monitoring the water rising and predicted it wouldn’t hit until the next day.

“‘Quick, quick, you’ve got to get up!’ she said, relaying a message to me from a mate,” he added.

“‘He wants you to get up the depot to get the truck, because the Commercial Hotel is being flooded in the basement,’” John, now 93, recalled his mother’s words.

He promptly jumped on his pushbike and headed for the fuel depot where he worked, having to navigate the rising water in different central business district streets to get to the Commercial Hotel.

“What caused the flood was that heavy rain, a lot of rain. We had about 10 or 11 inches here, and was that over just 24 hours,” he said.

“We found out later that the Talbragar River caused the problem. It became a weir and water backed up against that,” he added.

John said the flooding only impacted the area immediately around the river and north Dubbo. “Because the water banked

up through north Dubbo, that’s why it decimated the poor people that owned houses and businesses over there,” he said.

“The lowest part of town is the police station and it got flooded, and the courthouse,” he added.

John recalled assisting a police officer in a memorable rescue of an elderly lady dressed in black, standing in floodwater in Erskine Street.

“Back in those days, the old ladies used to wear long black dresses, and she’d been standing in the water from about three o’clock in the morning, so 12 hours waiting for help,” he explained.

When the lady refused to leave, however, the police officer politely said he would have to arrest her.

“She wasn’t very big, and he plucked the poor darling out of the water and into the boat,” John laughed at the memory.

John’s sweetheart and later wife, Thurza Tipping, had a hairdressing salon near what became the Snare’s newsagency, and it was inundated in the flood. He helped her clean up the mess afterwards, and they married in 1958, going on to have a long and happy life together and raising two children.

Ron Jones, Wellington:

“Not much to see here”

WELLINGTON local Ron Jones, 85, told the Dubbo Photo News that while the town did flood in 1955, more damage was experienced the following year when the fast-flowing and often fickle Bell River burst its banks yet again.

“Hardly anyone got flooded here in 1955,” Ron said.

“A few houses down near the Bell River, the flats got flooded, but very few. A couple of houses in the town too,” he added.

“[The floodwater] didn’t go

through the shops in Nanima Crescent, but right up to the door. They had sandbags in there, opposite the Commonwealth Bank.”

Then a teenager, Ron remembers riding his pushbike around the town with his mates, and in 1955 the flood wasn’t really considered a big deal.

He recalls one fellow being rescued from his refuge up a tree by people in rowboats.

The Wellington Museum has a small collection of photos from the 1955 and 1956 floods. Museum volunteer Ruth Cosier kindly showed the Dubbo Photo News the collection

during our visit.

A famous photo from February 1955 shows local lasses Carmel Larum and Pauline McGarrity in a boat on one of the flooded local streets. While the Wellington Museum doesn’t currently have an oral history collection like its Dubbo counterpart, Ruth hopes this might become a project for the future to help preserve local stories from the past like those shared by Ron Jones.

Housed in the old police station (adjacent to the new one), the Wellington Museum is open Friday to Sunday.

MANY lessons were learned from the 1955 flood disaster, something local elected representatives across the levels of government were keen to stress when reflecting on the 70th anniversary of the event.

“Seventy years ago, our city faced one of its greatest challenges through an unprecedented disaster when flood waters peaked at 12.67m, flooding large areas of Dubbo including the main business district,” said Dubbo Regional Council Mayor, Josh Black.

“The historic flood, known as the city’s biggest, tested the strength and resilience of the community back then. Today we remember not just the devastation, but the spirit of those that rebuilt our CBD and led to the

1955 Flood: Politicians reflect

planning and provisions we have in place for the city now,” he added.

Historic flooding events like the 1955 event, and those since, have served as vital lessons for the future, Mayor Black stressed.

“Council remains committed to ensuring that all new developments in the Dubbo Region carefully consider flood risks,” he said.

“We continue to balance economic, environmental, social, and safety considerations while working to minimize both the impact of flooding on development and the impact of development on flooding.”

State Member for Dubbo, Dugald Saunders MP, represents a State electorate that experienced significant inundation during the 1955 flood,

something he hopes the community will never see again.

“The 1955 flood is still remembered by many, as water levels reached the highest level in Dubbo’s history,” Mr Saunders said.

“The memories will remain and be documented forever, but I’m hoping we never see that scale of flooding again,” he added.

“As we reflect back on that time 70 years ago, there are still challenges, but also opportunities.

The new Dubbo bridge will provide one of the greatest opportunities for the city since that 1955 flood, and I’m excited about the difference it will make to the region,” he concluded.

Worker well-being adds to a business’ bottom line, new study shows

By DAVID DIXON

NEWSFLASH! Looking after your workers pays dividends, a new report has revealed, suggesting that every dollar invested in your staff’s well-being adds four times that to a business’ bottom line.

Companies that prioritise employee well-being significantly outperform the market, delivering up to three times higher shareholder returns, according to a ground-breaking report compiled by the Sydney-based workplace study UAre Group.

Titled ‘Maximising Return on Investment in Your People 2025’, the report consolidates findings from leading global research institutions including Harvard, Oxford, and MIT universities, and Deloitte economics.

With worker shortages a key problem for many industries worldwide and just as much for the Central West, the study makes the case that investing in employee well-being is no longer optional.

The data in the analysis suggest that organisations with high well-being scores experience:

 Three times higher shareholder returns

 50 per cent lower staff turnover

 21 per cent greater profitability

 400 per cent return on investment (ROI) in well-being programs.

Despite these clear benefits, the report highlights a major disconnect: while 85 per cent of executives believe a well-being gy, championed from the top, and continuously measured and refined, he concluded.

LOVE YOUR WORK

so much freedom and the potential to do everything!

What was your first paying job? It was in a hotel. I was a sales manager and receptionist, and I worked in the restaurant as well. Three words your friends would use to describe you? Not quite three words but reliable, determined, and always up for a challenge. How would you spend a win of a million dollars?

I would open a business, like a restaurant, or special stuff from China. I would also travel with my parent and nephew. When you were little, what did you think you wanted to be? I didn’t really want to be anything... well, maybe a lawyer. I always wanted to go to the University in China called Tsinghua.

In this opportunity at Bob Berry Real Estate you will benefit from:

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Read the details on this opportunity at www.seek.com.au/job/82249322

WELLINGTON NEWS

Farewell for beloved local volunteer who served Wellington community

By DAVID DIXON

HE was a man who gave his all to his community and will be sadly missed by a whole range of volunteer organisations in Wellington, with the community mourning the passing of local identity, Dr Mike Augee.

The former Councillor and Deputy Mayor of Wellington Shire, local author, and 2024 Citizen of the Year, died last week after a recent illness.

Yet it was in a variety of voluntary roles that he will be best-remembered, Wellington local and current Dubbo Councillor, Richard Ivey said.

“He was really the epitome of a worthwhile volunteer,” Cr Ivey said.

“He was effective, knowledgeable, and he really wanted

Great weather for the Wello Rotary Markets

PHOTOS BY COLIN ROUSE

Great weather helped make the recent Wello Rotary Markets a really enjoyable and successful day for everyone.

to serve his community, and he did it effectively,” he added.

Among his many roles, Dr Augee was past President, Secretary and Treasurer of the Wellington Historical Society; a member of Wellington’s Heritage Committee; founder of Friends of the Wellington Caves; heavily involved in The Fossil Trail at the Caves; a member of the Wellington Lions Club; a volunteer ranger at Mt Arthur; and a supporter of Burrendong Botanic Garden and Arboretum.

A public leader, he also served on the former Wellington Council; holding the role of Deputy Mayor, with a commitment to the betterment of the wider community, Cr Ivey said.

“Mike was one of those people who really wanted to be ef-

fective and to get things done.

“He simply wanted to make a positive difference to his community,” Cr Ivey said.

A local environmentalist who led the Greens at the last Local Government elections, Dr Augee, was named as Wellington’s 2024 Citizen of the Year in recognition of his commitment to the environment and his love of education and sharing knowledge of Australia’s flora and fauna.

Others to praise his contributions, included the Wellington Lions Club who posted on their Facebook page: ”Thank you Dr Mike Augee for your seven years of being both secretary/ treasurer of our club.

“Turned up to our events to take the money and then worked at home; he will be

greatly missed by many of the non-profit groups in Wellington that he helped over the years.”

Drawing from his great skill and knowledge as a respected Palaeontologist, Dr Augee, Chris George, and Bruce Welch, also published the popular local book on the town’s main tourist attraction titled: “Wellington Caves”.

In recent years, Dr Augee joined the Greens and narrowly missed out on election to Dubbo Regional Council last year under their banner. Dr Augee had a distinguished professional life, including serving as the Research Director at the Wellington Caves.

There is expected to be a memorial service at Wellington Caves in March to honour this great local servant.

IN FOCUS

THUMBS UP!

Thumbs up to Doug Smith Appliance Spares and Ken Madden Washing Machine Repairs – great service, both offering incredibly fast and efficient service. Thank you!

Thumbs up and many thanks to the staff at Duncan McGinness for their very kind care of Emmi, my much-loved rescue cat.

Thumbs up to Vinnies volunteer Barb for her amazing recycling, turning old material into amazing dog beds. Fantastic effort!

Thumbs up to Lorraine for great effort in keeping all the catering supplies filled at U3A. With so many more enrolled this year, it’s an amazing effort.

Thumbs up to Bill Stanford for sharing his amazing travel stories with CPSA/CWA members. All present were transported to North Korea with such vivid descriptions.

 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.

Half new Dubbo medical course intake hail from the golden west

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

By DAVID DIXON

WITH nearly half its new intake coming from the Golden West, the School of Rural Health (SRH) recently welcomed 2025 first-year medical students undertaking the University of Sydney’s entire four-year Doctor of Medicine program in Dubbo.

Representing regional centres including Orange, Dubbo, Brewarrina, Broken Hill, Coonamble, Parkes, and Forbes, the new group will join the 93 medical students currently studying in the Dubbo stream of the course. Among the first-year students are Central West locals Jonathon Toll, Savana Purss, and Grace McRae.

Jonathon grew-up in Dubbo and has been working locally. Witnessing the impact of limited healthcare services in rural areas, he was

inspired to become a doctor to make a lasting difference in rural communities.

“The immersive learning experience and smaller cohort offer a great opportunity to train and develop into a medical professional in the bush,” Jonathon said.

“The overwhelmingly positive reviews from current and past students, and the community in general, also motivated me to want to study in Dubbo,” he added.

Savana Purss has been a dietitian at Dubbo Hospital for the past three years. While she has always been interested in becoming a doctor, she was uncertain about her chances given the competitive entry process.

“I am most excited to be studying in a town that I already know and love; it’s been an extremely smooth and encouraging process to even apply to study medicine in Dubbo,” Sa-

vana said.

“I found the Dubbo School of Rural Health staff to be extremely encouraging towards local people, and this has made me feel very welcomed,” she revealed.

The Dubbo stream is delivered in new purpose-built facilities, opened in 2022 at the School of Rural Health. They feature two dedicated learning studios for team-based collaborative work, an anatomy teaching lab, and a six-suite simulation training centre, Head of the Clinical School Professor Catherine Hawke said.

“It’s wonderful to see so many students from our region pursuing their dreams to become doctors and we can’t wait to see the impact they will have – both as medical students and future doctors,” Prof Hawke enthused.

RENOWNED AUTHOR COMING TO MRL

Best-selling Australian rural romance author Nicole Alexander is coming to the Macquarie Regional Library Dubbo branch for an author talk on Tuesday 11 March 2025 at 11:30am.

Nicole will speak about how she became an author and the inspiration around her latest novel.

The author talk is free to attend, however, bookings are

Council is proud to be celebrating NSW Seniors Festival, which recognises the role and contributions of older adults to our local communities.

hosted by families in Dubbo’s Sister City, Minokamo.

experience, head to dubbo.nsw.gov.au

the region.

Enjoy light refreshments and come mingle with your new home.

The event is being held at the Western Plains Cultural Centre from 5:30pm.

dubbo.com.au/events

A LIFESTYLE OF SPACE, COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE 25 GRANGEWOOD DRIVE, DUBBO

Step into a life of ease and versatility in this meticulously maintained home in Grangewood Estate, perfectly positioned less than 100m from the Dubbo Golf Course. A standout feature is the detached, fully insulated studio, complete with its own ensuite, kitchenette and roller door, offering endless possibilities as a retreat, workshop, hobby room or extra garage.

Enjoy light-filled living spaces, including a north-facing lounge and a large kitchen ideal for entertaining. The seamless flow from the family area to the alfresco areas creates the perfect space for relaxation, all set on a beautiful 1,528 sqm block with established trees, veggie gardens and fruit trees.

NEW LAND RELEASE

with Karen Chant from Chant and Co

When The Market Remains Beyond Reach

In an era of soaring property prices, many find their homeownership dreams drifting out of reach. Here are some strategies which may assist you:

1. Reevaluate Priorities:

Consider sacrificing certain property features to meet affordability thresholds. Flexibility now may pave the way for future upgrades.

Lifestyle and Location – Just 100 m to Golf Course

This beautifully designed home offers a perfect blend of lifestyle, comfort and practicality. The detached studio with its own ensuite and kitchenette adds incredible versatility, making it ideal for hobbies, creative pursuits, workshop, teenage retreat or extra vehicle storage.

Enjoy light-filled interiors that flow effortlessly to a selection of alfresco areas, set amidst park-like grounds with established trees and gardens. Conveniently located near Delroy Park Shopping Centre, medical, schools, childcare, walking tracks and parklands, this home is ready for you to create the lifestyle you dream of.

CONTACT: Karen Chant 0448 191167 karen@chantandco.com.au

2. Explore Adjacent Areas: “Bridesmaid suburbs,” neighbouring regions with similar amenities but lower prices, offer viable alternatives to sought-after neighbourhoods.

3. Consider Rent-vesting:

Buy in affordable locales while renting in desired areas. This hybrid approach can provide both property ownership and lifestyle preferences.

4. Innovate Solutions:

Think creatively about alternative paths to home ownership, such as investing in promising but undervalued neighbourhoods or pursuing additional income streams.

5. Seek Supplementary Income:

Exploring a second job or seeking higher earnings can bridge the financial gap. Other possibilities may include purchasing with a friend or family member or seeking options for government concessions or grants.

By adapting to market realities and adopting innovative strategies, homeownership goals can still be within reach despite formidable market conditions.

Wishing you every success in your search! Karen Chant, mobile 0448 191167, email karen@chantandco.com.au

Proudly sponsored by

Orana Dance Centre Open Jazz Team

Orana Dance Centre’s Open Jazz Team is thrilled to have recently worked with Sydneybased choreographer and performer Lauren Elton.

With an impressive background in the Australian entertainment industry, Lauren brings a wealth of experience, dynamic choreography, and a fresh perspective to the team.

Known for her versatility and high-energy style, she is helping shape an exciting and challenging routine that showcases the dancers’ technical skills and stage presence. This collaboration is an incredible opportunity for the team to learn from a professional who has worked extensively in musical theatre, television and live performance, pushing them to new creative heights.

WHAT KIDS SAY KiDZ ONLY!

Claire

How old are you? Seven. What do you like about yourself? Um, I’m kind, caring, and try my best at things.

What are you good at? Running and swimming.

What’s a type of food do you love the most? Watermelon.

What’s the best dream you’ve ever had? When our family worked together to build a house!

When you grow up, what do you think your job will be? A real estate agent like Tara.

Do you have a favourite word? Um… love.

If you got to be a parent for a day, what would be your number one rule? Do ANYTHING you want, except have food and drink on the carpet. What makes you laugh? When people tell funny jokes.

Who is your favourite character from a book? Billie B Brown and her best friend Jack.

Do you know any good jokes? No.

How old are you when you stop being a kid? 12 because then you are a teenager!

If you could paint your bedroom, what colour would it be? Blue and pink.

Who’s the boss in your family? Mum and Dad.

Which zoo animal would you have for a pet? A meerkat.

How many stars are there in the sky? Infinity!

If you could talk to animals, what animal would like to speak to? A dolphin.

MAKE A BEAUTIFUL MANDALA

wafer

GEORGIA

Turned 7 years old on 25th February. Happy Birthday Georgia!

ALFRED

Happy 9th birthday for 10th February!

Alfred enjoying his birthday party over the weekend his birthday. Love mum Nan Tash

KNOW A BIRTHDAY CHILD THIS MONTH?

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

Where does the sun go at night? Mmm, behind the moon? au week before.

Entries must be in by 5pm Friday the week before.

Is your photo featured here? Donut King Orana Mall has a FREE kids doughnut to help you celebrate!

Bring your copy of Dubbo Photo News to claim your Birthday gift.

THE TOONS’ VIEWS

TIME WARP

By David Dixon

The centenary of Dubbo’s War Memorial this year has thrown a spotlight on its renowned and sometimes controversial

father restored ancient buildings and was a and design at Nottingham School of Art, before enlisting for active service in World

After meeting the Australian architect Hardy Wilson at Naples, and discussions with Derwent Wood in London, he accepted appointment as teacher of

At the college, he energetically reorganised the courses and was a vigorous sculpture that attracted a group of notable

A force for liberal ideals combined with stylistic moderation in art, his friendship with Norman Lindsay and Hardy Wilson which combined elements of Graeco-

Producing the large reliefs of the war

the Anzac Memorial in Sydney, that he became victim to one of the typical morality disputes that bedevilled much

This followed heavy criticism by Catholic church leaders, the Master Builders’ Association of New South Wales, and the local chapter of the Royal Australian symbolism of two intended sculptures,

victorious Australia under a representation

The violent controversy that greeted the development into full-size sculptures for the centrepiece in the Hall of Silence at the

Dubbo’s War Memorial artist courted Sydney controversy

sculptor from

ACROSS

1 Holy (6) 4 Properly authorised (8) 10 Indifferent (9) 11 Shelve (5) 12 Forced (4) 13 Gem (4)

WORDFIT

3 LETTERS

26 Substance (4)

28 Not false (4)

30 Vacuous (5)

31 A common size of dimensional lumber (3-2-4)

32 Largest (8) 33 Funeral car (6)

1 Masses of bees (6)

2 Ancient Semitic-speaking nation (7)

3 Repeat (4) 5 Amenity (8)

6 Single (10)

7 Raging fire (7)

8 Generosity (8)

9 Pace (4)

15 Preadult (10)

18 Expending (8)

19 Brings to life (8)

21 Dish of meat rolled around a filling (7) 23 Port (7)

24 Temperature unit (6)

27 Minute particle (4)

29 Wood heap for burning (4)

14 Written passage (5) 16 German automobile manufacturer (4)

Scholarly (8) 20 Having impaired vision (8)

Pulp (4)

Naming words (5)

4 LETTERS ADDS AGES ASKS CASE CEDE DABS EGGS LIST ONES

5 LETTERS ADORE ANGER ANGST AORTA AWARE AWOKE BIKED BLURB CANED CLOSE DEBTS DENIM

QUICK QUIZ

1. How many ‘Arabian Nights’ are there in the Middle Eastern folk tales?

2. Which singer-songwriter wrote and recorded the theme song for the hit series Orange is the New Black?

3. What ingredient makes a latte into a mocha?

4. True or false: spruce trees are evergreen?

5. Papillon is a breed of what type of animal?

6. In which country are the Cliffs of Moher located?

7. Australian athlete Eddie Ockenden competes in what sport?

8. Annie Lennox (pictured) partnered with Dave Stewart to form which ’80s British pop duo?

9. Name the narrator of Herman Melville’s 1851 novel Moby-Dick

10. What device helps musicians keep a steady tempo?

TIP OF THE WEEK

Smartphones and computers are notorious for viruses – but I’m thinking of the kind that can make YOU sick. These devices are touched by us constantly. And then we stick them right to our faces! Take the time daily to clean off your device with an alcohol wipe to decontaminate it. Your respiratory and digestive systems will thank you.

ARIES: You’ll come up with great ideas and innovative prop osals this week. Your plans may change a few times based on your mood. This could irritate some people around you.

YOUR STARS

TAURUS: Amid a chaotic situation, brilliant ide a s often emerge. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, a second cup of coff ee might be just the boost of energy you need to accomplish great things.

GEMINI: After a particularly stressful period, t aking a step back and indulging in some well-deserved rest is important. This break will help you recharge your batteries and feel refreshed.

CANCER: You’ll put in a considerable amount of o v ertime at work this week. You’ll also enjoy relaxing moments with family and friends and participate in enriching activities together.

LEO: A trip or a romantic getaway will lift your spirits. You’ll fully embrace this blissful experience. The idea of moving abroad or going on an adventure will take shape in your mind.

VIRGO: Change will come naturally to you this week.

C hoose your friends wisely to reduce stress in your life. You’ll take a more spiritual approach to life, which will improve your well-being and help you feel more aligned with your deepest desires.

LIBRA: You’ll have strong emotions this week. Be mindf ul about putting yourself in a position where you’re forced to make a big decision all alone. This could lead to tough criticism that may be hard to handle.

SCORPIO: You’ll use your strong sense of determinat ion to carve out your own place in the professional world. This approach could open the door to exciting opportunities for travel and cultural experiences.

SAGITTARIUS: You’ll stand out among your friends and c olleagues. These individuals will be ready to support the big changes you’re making, including those in your personal life.

CAPRICORN: For some people, this time of year means

r elaxation. However, if a crowd of visitors arrives at your home, they may take liberties and leave you feeling solely responsible for putting things back in order. Fortunately, you’ll still have a great time.

AQUARIUS: Trust your instincts – they’re your best guide! Don’t let yourself be influenced by those who think they know everything. Believe in your own abilities. Someone close to you might inadvertently hold you back.

PISCES: Your work will provide you with stability, f inancial independence and travel opportunities. Be careful not to exceed the speed limit when driving this week.

THE DIARY

ON THIS WEEK

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.

Dementia Sing Out Choir: Weekly 11am12.30pm, Generosity Church 51 Sheraton Road Dubbo. Contact Anne Gemmell 0481396404. Geurie Lions Markets: Saturday, March 29, 2025. At Wise Park Mitchell Highway, Geurie. 8:30am start.

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!

Ladies Luncheon: Will be held Saturday March 1, 12 noon at The Press, 33 Bultje Street Dubbo. Contact Bev on 68845401 by February 27 if interested.

COMING SOON

CPSA Dubbo Meeting: Friday, March 14, 2025. 10am at the Dubbo RSL Club. Guest Speaker - Donna Falconer. All welcome, no charge. For further information, please contact 0427 251 121.

Macquarie Cricket Club Dubbo - 45 Year Reunion: MCC invites all current / former players and supporters to attend the upcoming reunion. 7pm Saturday, March 1, 2025. Garden Hotel, Gipps St, Dubbo. Jason Green: 0450 622 488, Glenn McLean: 0427 646 972, Geoff Morrison: 0408 778 633.

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

Family History Society (Dubbo & District): 1pm to 4pm, volunteers on site dur-

ing 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. Dorothy 0408 601 066

Wellington Lions Preloved Book Fair: Wellington Lions Preloved Book Fair Thursday to Saturday 10am to 2pm, Western Gallery, corner Swift St and Mitchell Highway, Wellington. Preloved books, Jigsaw puzzles, Cds, Dvds and now board games with the money raised going to Charities that Club members choose.

FRIDAY

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings: 7pm (1.5hrs) - ID meeting, Dubbo Community Health, Palmer Street, Dubbo. Contact Dee 0417 422 750, 1300 222 222 or www.aa.org.au. Central West Makers Place: 12pm-6pm, South Dubbo Veterans and Community Men’s Shed, Cnr Palmer and High Streets. 3D printing, robotics, pottery, and more. Adam 0431 038 866.

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

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

Dubbo Nepalese Christian Fellowship: 6.30-8pm. Cyrel on 0416 826 701 or Kabita 0452 406 234.

Dubbo Parkinson’s Support Group: FIRST Friday of each month, 10.30am, Horizons village, Minore Road, Dubbo. Jim Jupp, 0438414888.

Lunchtime Prayer Group - Dubbo Anglican Church: 1-2pm in Brotherhood House, 158 Brisbane Street. Bring your lunch Narromine Food Barn: 9am-11am, Lowcost groceries and FREE fruit, vegetables and bread with any purchase to people in need. Ken Rumble on 0414 477 365 Spinning and Weaving: 10am, at Dubbo Arts and Craft Cottage, 137 Cobra Street. Anne 0408 891 225

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

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

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, Orana Gardens Round house. Please confirm the meeting will be on. Dorothy 6884 6646

SATURDAY

Beekeepers Inc - Orana: SECOND Saturday of the month, 9.15am, Narromine Tennis Club rooms, unless other arrangements are made. orana.secretary@beekeepers.asn.au

Bridge Club - Dubbo: 1pm until approximately 4.30pm, Bultje Street. $7 members, $9 non-members. Libby 0428 254 324. Croquet: 8.15am, Muller Park Tennis and Croquet courts, Brisbane St, North Dubbo. New players of all ages are welcome. Tricia 0428 876 204 or Margaret 0427 018 946.

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

Dubbo Anglican Church Vigil Communion Service: 6pm, 158 Brisbane Street. Contact 6884 4990

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

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

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

Macquarie Regional Library

Contact Patricia 0439846400

Family History Society (Dubbo & District): 10am to 1pm, volunteers on site during these hours, Western Plains Cultural Centre Community Arts Centre, Cnr Wingewarra and Gipps St.

Orana Writers’ Hub: 1st Saturday of the month 10-1. Music Room WPCC

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: First Saturday of the Month. 45 L Boothenba Road, Dubbo commencing at 2pm. Will be 90 this year! Contact Ronda on 0419 275 223.

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.

SUNDAY

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings (Steps and Traditions): 7pm (1.5hrs), ‘Steps and Traditions’ meeting, Dubbo Community Health, Palmer St. Jack 0418 605 041, Sally 0427 829 807, 1300 222 222 or www.aa.org.au

Australian Kite Flyers Society: SECOND Sunday of the month, 10am, Jubilee Oval. See how to build and fly modern (and old) kites. David 0476 223 342

Bicycle User Group Social Ride: 9am, at Wahroonga Park. Mick 0437 136 169 or Sam 0429826076, dubbobug.org.au

Dubbo Acoustic Musicjam (DAMjam): SECOND Sunday of the month, 2pm to 5pm, Milestone Hotel, upstairs. Join acoustic sessions or just listen. Peter 0457 787 143

Dubbo Anglican Church Traditional Communion Service: 8am, 158 Brisbane Street. 6884 4990

Dubbo Anglican Church: 10am, Trinity Kids Sunday School and family Communion service. Dubbo Baptist Church: 6pm, at 251 Cobra Street (next to Spotlight), during school terms. Come along and discover if church is still relevant in today’s world. Everyone is welcome. 6884 2320

Dubbo Baptist Church: 9.30am, 251 Cobra Street (next to Spotlight). Everyone is welcome. 6884 2320

Dubbo 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 Camera Club: Meet 1st Tuesday of the Month at Club Dubbo at 7pm. Everyone is welcome to join. See F.B. page for more details. 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, 10.30am12pm, Venue changes each month. Louise or Emma 0412 706 785 Breast Cancer Support Group: FOURTH Wednesday of every month, 10am, Baptist Church, Palmer Street, Community Health 5853 2545

Bric-a-brac sale, weekly - South Dubbo Veterans and Community Men’s Shed: 10am-12pm, Corner of Palmer and High Streets. Contact Barry on 0439 344 349

Cake Cupper & Cancer Support Group: SECOND Wednesday of month, 2:30-4pm, Western Cancer Centre Dubbo, carer is also welcome. For patients having current cancer treatment.

Megs or Fi 6809 6200

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. $10 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.

THE SKIN CHECK BUS WILL BE AT THE MARCH ON SATURDAY AND THE MACQUARIE CLUB ON SUNDAY BOOK YOUR FREE SKIN CHECK VIA THE EMAILED LINK AFTER REGISTERING FOR THE MARCH (Limited appointments available)

(behind Riverdale Shopping Centre) Gather from 8.30am – Speeches from 9.00am

Gilgandra & Weilwan LALC’s - CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PERMANENT FULL-TIME POSITION (JOB SHARE), 35 hours per week (shared between two LALC’s) Salary range negotiable from $100,000 plus entitlements & superannuation.

The CEO is accountable to the Board of Directors & is responsible for the day-to-day operations. The CEO ensures the activities of GLALC & WLALC are consistent with the priorities & directions of LALC’s policy framework set down by the Members. The CEO ensures the services of both LALC’s are of high quality & responsive to the changing needs of the communities & funding environment. The Boards of GLALC & WLALC seek to appoint a CEO with the following core technical competencies:

a) Business Management – extensive experience in a senior management position.

b) Operational Management – Strategic approach to day-to-day operational management of a Remote Aboriginal Service.

c) Financial Management – manage the financial affairs of the organization, including budgeting, financial management (MYOB & Xero) & reporting to ensure compliance with legal & funding obligations.

d) Staff Management – develop & build on a team that is committed to a productive working culture within the policies & procedures of GLALC & WLALC.

e) Demonstratable knowledge and understanding of the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 (ALRA) (or the ability to rapidly acquire) with the capacity to interpret and implement legislation and sound communication skills.

f) External Relations & Representation – cultivate strategic alliances & positive relationships to effectively represent & advocate for GLALC & WLALC.

g) Qualifications in business, finance, or community services disciplines (or equivalent experience) or willing to obtain.

Selection Criteria for appointment to the role of CEO will be assessed based on the suitability & background & fit to the key candidate requirements. (listed above). Please call or email for employment package or to discuss the role: Gilgandra LALC – Trish Pont - MB: 0499230086 or Email: ceo@gillalc.com

Aboriginal Identified, “An applicant’s race is a genuine occupational qualification and Authorised by Section 14(d) of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977.”

Positions closes: 9th April 2025. Please post applications to: GLALC & WLALC CEO Recruitment Panel PO Box 163 Gilgandra NSW 2827

RIVERCARE

will be at the farmers market park this Sunday morning at 8:15am

Please join us for a wander around collecting rubbish along Tracker Riley cycleway between Serisier and LH Ford bridges. Some bags and gloves are available, but bring your own gloves if you can. Don’t forget to register with us on the day before you start. Better bring a water bottle too! We will have a sausage sizzle to conclude CONTACT JANE 0428962933

By DAVID DIXON

THE second year of rugby league’s biggest gamble, to try and take on the sporting behemoth of the American market, will have a very ‘DubVegas’ feel in 2025.

With a none-to-original slogan of ‘Bigger, Bolder and Better’, the NRL is out there promoting its now-annual David-versus-Goliath effort with the first round of the new season in Las Vegas on Saturday, March 1.

Only this time, much of the Golden West will be there in spirit – if not in person – with local hero Isaah Yeo leading the fourpeat Premiership-winning Penrith Panthers out for the headline match against the Cronulla Sharks at Allegiant Stadium in what is billed as “the sporting capital of the world”.

Added to this heady mix, ambitious NRL supremo Peter V’landys has invited one moderately wellknown American pollie, President Donald J Trump, to be there in person.

V’landys made his tongue-incheek appeal on conservative US news program Fox and Friends directly to The Don – who, in his second term has been making a habit of appearing at major sporting events including the Superbowl, Daytona 500, and pro-wrestling – to see “the toughest game on earth” in person.

Last year’s first-ever spectacular in Vegas drew a solid 40,000-plus crowd, enjoyed priceless publicity via Australian Rupert Murdoch’s vast US media holdings, great Australian television audience numbers, but only lukewarm viewer figures on American cable television.

By DAVID DIXON

WATCHING the two sports on television (or even more so, live), one might think that American football and rugby league are two games with very little in common.

Yet they both have a shared past, taking different approaches to the same problem – how to make a sport that is both physically demanding and requiring courage, skill, and commitment, but which is also an exciting spectator sport.

Elite American universities had been strong adherents of rugby (union) since the mid-19th century, an English sport that developed at that most prestigious of public (private) schools, Rugby, when, in 1823 William Web Ellis – a pupil at the Warwickshire institution – took it upon himself to flout the rules of soccer, picking up the ball and running with it towards the goal.

With the economic might and social status of the British aristocracy and middle classes, as well as a codified set of rules and regulations in place, rugby seemed destined to become the world’s predominant football code at a time when football (soccer) was still an unorganised melee with few rules

However, the undoubted morale boost that this novel event offered the sport back in Australia over its largest rival code – the homegrown AFL – was almost worth the money spent on the venture itself.

Suggestions that V’landys, who also runs Racing NSW, is more interested in a slice of the lucrative American betting market than actual eyeballs on games, doesn’t seem to have impacted interest in the venture.

But while many North American sports – gridiron, baseball, basketball, ice hockey – are hugely popular in the United States, this hasn’t always translated to viable international competition.

e undoubted morale k in Australia over a l code – the homewas almost worth ent on the venture that also runs is more A merimarket eyemes, to d e , ice in tes, ed to viable interetition glish tea ms a lso

With two English teams also playing at the footie festival –the Warrington Wolves and Wigan Warriors – the NRL is perhaps hoping that the multi-cultural flavour of rugby league wins over American footie fans in what is now their NFL off-season.

Football manager Phil Gould of the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs – playing home of another Dubbo local, Australian player Matt Burton – has previously suggested that the ultimate aim of the five-year venture, is to establish an NRL side in the United States.

With the world seemingly getting more interconnected every year, that’s not beyond the bounds

Isaah to lead the Panthers in US season 2025 launch

of possibility with three countries already now part of the NRL: Australia, New Zealand, and in 2028, Papua New Guinea where rugby league is the national sport.

In fact, a variation on this dream has already been tried – and was surprisingly viable – with the Toronto Wolfpack successfully running a team out of Ontario, Canada, in the UK Super League for three years up until the Coronavirus lockdowns of 2020 put them out of business.

and no governing body.

However, when the American (and Canadian) colleges politely enquired about rule changes and even codified rule books, they received a curt “not interested” from the governing body in London.

They started therefore, to modify the game to suit North American tastes. Even now, the oval-shaped ball, the dimensions of the “gridiron” field (so-called, because of the diagonal lines at regular intervals that have the appearance of a cooking gridiron), the H-upright goal posts, touchdowns (tries), conversions, and the scrimmage line (from the word “scrum"), are all derived from rugby union.

The iconic American football helmet – unique among world sports – is also a modification of the head-gear that rugby (and, occasionally, league) players still wear today to protect themselves from head-knocks during play. In fact, American footballers up until the 1930s were often called “leatherheads”, in reference to their rugby-style head-covering, that was eventually replaced with helmets.

Meanwhile in the British Isles, rugby was still the dominant sport in most urban areas and among the social elite. However, being a

“gentlemen’s game” it remained strictly amateur with no compensation for injuries that kept workers from earning a living.

When sides in the “northern league” – mostly in mining and industrial areas of Yorkshire and Lancashire – suggested payment for down time, when players were off work due to physical incapacity or to play away games, the Rugby Football Union again gave a firm “No”.

In 1895 then, a group of 22 clubs broke away to form their own competition, the Northern Union; the name “Rugby League” was later adopted to differentiate the fast-evolving sport from the establishment “Rugby Union” –and so a 130-year feud was born. With American football and rugby league now needing to put fans in the stands to pay for players who were no longer amateur, both games looked to make their sports a more attractive spectator pastime.

To allow for more tries and a faster-flowing spectacle, the British breakaway league removed the ruck, maul, and lineout (but kept the scrum) and also removed two players (the breakaways) from each side to open up the field of play.

elit running r u Amer i ga m t hey ha e years, i ly-promo of Or i match show n an ta t com m ke US men i n a soccer-m of ey and suppor

With many elite American colleges running rugby union programs, there has always been a sense that Americans would love “the greatest game of all”; if only they gave it half a chance.

Various efforts over the years, including poorly-promoted internationals and a “fourth State of Origin” exhibition match in 1989, have shown the Herculean task the game has in the world’s most competitive sports market.

Even football (soccer) has only ever been a niche sport in the American media market, despite the US men’s side having a world ranking in the top dozen, a huge soccer-mad Latin American population, tens of millions of players, and unlimited money and support from the world game body, FIFA.

Even this vast investment over decades and the fact that the United States hosted – in statistical terms – the most successful World Cup ever in 1996 (and will host it again in 2026), has still left soccer largely derided as a foreign, children’s game.

With its pretty-boy stars, histrionic gamesmanship, low-scoring, and smooth European style, soccer’s efforts to take on the American sporting market seem to doom it to remain a second-class sport popular with Europhiles, Latinos, kids, and women.

Rugby league though, feels it could be the off-season adrena-

lin fix that could hit a vein with red-blooded all-American football fans. Though few sports fans realise it, the two games also share a common background in rugby (rugby union) from which they both derived in the 19th century (see attached article).

While many have dreamed of “the greatest game of all” taking-on American sports, it has taken a visionary leader of the NRL like V’Landys, to make it a reality.

While ticket sales have already surpassed the final crowd number of 40,000 for the 2024 match, the interest of American locals and of those watching the game on cable television, will be the ultimate determinant of how successful the half-decade experiment is.

While modest and self-effacing stars like Yeo, Nathan Cleary, Dylan Edwards, Liam Martin, and most NRL players generally, may lack the brash showmanship and glitzy presence of American “gridiron” teams like the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas Chiefs, they are by, any standards, athletes of the first order playing one of the toughest sports on the planet.

That may not be enough in itself to crack the US market, but it may be sufficient for the defending premiers to again feature on grand final day in the first week in October.

NRL Las Vegas promotion 2025 on Saturday, March 1 (Australian local time):

 Canberra Raiders versus New Zealand Warriors

 Penrith Panthers versus Cronulla Sutherland-Sharks

 Wigan Warriors versus Warrington Wolves

 Australian Jillaroos versus England Wom en’s Team

American football and rugby league: Common roots, different destinations

The Americans took a more radical approach, introducing the forward pass into their game to break up defensive patterns that,

even 100 years ago, were stifling attacking play, an issue that rugby union still wrestles with to this day.

WEST DUBBO BOWLS REPORT

Tim Farrell and Darren Connolly, West Dubbo Roo’s representatives heading to Cabramatta next week for the Master Fours tournament, boasting an impressive $100,000 in prize-money. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Contributed By CLUB DUBBO

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS

Judy Cassidy, Bruce Baker, Ros Gilholme, and Trevor Williams are the new Mixed Fours Champions. They outlasted last year’s champions, Helen Davis, John and Tracey Silk, and Warren Towney by just three shots in a memorable final that finished by candlelight last Friday evening. A large crowd of spectators was on-hand to witness some excellent play.

The Men’s Triples and Women’s Triples Championships now begin on Saturday, March 8 with the draw which features a Round Robin format on the Noticeboard.

MID WEST OPEN GENDER PENNANTS

Results from last Sunday: Grade One: Lost to Dubbo City 9-1 (57-54). Grade Four: defeated Narromine 8-2 (69-64). Grade Six: defeated Mudgee 8-2 (56-52). Grade Seven defeated Bourke, 8-2 (59-56); the weekend, will feature two teams at home on Saturday with grade One and Six against Dubbo Macquarie, while Fours and Sevens will travel to Nyngan on the Sunday, all 9.30am starts. Grade One versus Dubbo Macquarie is at home from 9.30am JUNIOR ROOKIE ROLLERS

The popular Rookie Rollers program will be run again at Club Dubbo, commencing Friday, March 7. This fun program for both girls and boys aged between 8–14 will run from 5.30–6.30pm each Friday for six continuous weeks up until the end of School Term One. For more information, contact our effervescent Club Dubbo Bowls’ Manager, Anthony Brown, on 0403 401 567.

SOCIAL BOWLS

Pam Dawson, Mary Ney, and Roger Braintree won last Wednesday’s social bowls on a countback from Aileen Beecroft, Gai Morrison, and Graham Ross, with Warren Brown, John Fardell, and Judy Cassidy third. Forbes visitor, Brian Asimus, was over the moon when he took home the large cash jackpot draw.

On Friday, John Mackenzie and John Fardell were too good for the opposition, winning handsomely from the runners-up, John Davis and Dick Jeffries. The Lucky Draw money was won by Sean Lamb.

CLUB ACTIVITIES

Club Dubbo extensions continue apace. Anthony’s office has been temporarily relocated just inside the bistro area, but bowlers can still access the western doorway and No.3 Green. The building works are due to conclude in May.

All the best to our four members attending the Cabramatta Master fours tournament next Monday to Thursday; the tournament will feature some of the best bowlers in the country, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday nights’ popular meat, fruit, and vegetable raffles continue to draw large crowds. In addition, this Thursday night’s members’ badge draw stands at $3000, whilst Friday’s badge draw is up to $8000.

Thought for the Week – “A good speech should be like a woman’s skirt: long enough to cover the subject and short-enough to create interest.” – Winston Churchill

FROM 7TH MARCH TO 4TH APRIL

FROM7THMARCHTO4THAPRIL 5.30PM-6.30PM

Touch triumph with thousands here for northern NSW festival

By GEOFF MANN

Photos by KEN SMITH

VITAL stats: 209 teams, 270 referees, 10,000 players, families and supporters!

Dubbo’s Lady Cutler Riverbank cricket ovals were transformed into 26 touch fields, complete with a showcase No 1 oval which live-streamed matches over last Friday’s, Saturday,’s and Sunday’s finals of the NSW Touch Junior State Cup Northern Conferences for ages Under 10s to Under 18s.

Dubbo Touch competed in all nine age groups (male and female) while teams from Wellington, Mudgee, Orange, and Bathurst competed alongside teams from north of the Sydney Harbour Bridge all the way to the Queensland border. Indeed, I was fortunate enough to be on air with the ABC when a history-making northern beaches local derby

was fought-out between North Sydney Bears and the Hornsby Wolves.

Dubbo qualified all teams in the finals play-offs, with the three youngest eventually eliminated in the semi-finals. They were all just a touch shy of the northern State Grand Finals!

Results Northern NSW State Age Touch

Championships were:

 Under 10 Girls – Doyalson defeated Northern Beaches 3-0

 Under 10 Boys – Northern Beaches def Manly 6-3

 Under 12 Boys – Northern Beaches def Nel s on Bay 11-4

 Under 14 Girls – Maitland def Ballina 8-3

 Under 14 Boys – Wallsend def Northern Beaches 13-8

 Under 16 Girls – Northern Beaches def Newca s tle 12-5

 Under 18 Girls – Manly def Central Coast 13-10  Under 18 Boys – Manly def Maitland 9-4

Dean Russell, Touch NSW CEO said of the Tournament

“We’ve been here for three years now, we’ve got one more year on our current contract with Dubbo. They’ve looked after us every year with the weather and the fields absolutely magnificent in the way they’ve been presented.

“The panorama is majestic! We take our hats off to Dubbo Touch and the Council. Each year, we’ve been here we’ve been presented with pristine fields, not just for the main showcase field, but across all 26 spread along Bligh and Macquarie Streets. It’s a really great sight and the playing surfaces are first-class.

“All these big marquees were

here when we arrived early in the week, and it was such a buzz watching volunteers, Council and hire firms bringing this almost-vacant venue to life. They had to bring in all the fences, the scoreboards, build a broadcasting tower and, of course, ensure there were facilities for a huge crowd. Seamless!

“Regional NSW loves their sport and its proven to us there is so much buy-in, not just from the Touch Association and Council, but the community as a whole.

“Local businesses and vendors at the grounds gain the benefits, as do those in the town as 10,000 people move to retail shops and other local recreational and tourist attractions.

“We structure our comp to have morning and afternoon sessions, so families can have a look around and add to the local economy. The benefits are to the whole community!”

Dean Russell said of the Volunteers

“Dubbo Touch does an amazing job motivating the parents and supporters to form a volunteer workforce to run the canteens, ensure all teams are catered for and to keep water and ice available when needed.

“They organised run-around vehicles to transport equipment and Touch NSW staff around the grounds and get them back to their accommodation each night and bring them down each morn-

ing. It’s a massive event and a huge credit to everyone involved who is so generous with their time.”

Dean Russell said of the Players

“Players were stretching to the vibes blasting out from boom boxes. Dean and I reflected on how different it was to when we started playing touch footy 50 years ago.

“I remember my first game when I was 16. Just got out of the car, barefoot, grabbed a ball and just started running around! I was talking to one of the legends of our sport the other day, Mark Boland and we agreed it was good we played then – it’s too fast and skilfull these days!

“And you can see why other sports like league, union, AFL basketball and netball are looking to Touch as a feeder for their higher level semi=professional sports.” “One of the beauties of our sport is that this is a State level event. This is replicated across 130 locations across NSW at grassroots level.

“One of the great features of Touch is it attracts people of all ages. We have Mixed Touch and mums, dads, kids and grandkids are playing together – representative sport in social settings.

“Referees have pathways too. We have six badge levels – shortly to be consolidated into four – so young and more mature are able to pursue their dreams through

local, regions, country, state, national and onto international levels.

NIC GROSE – President Dubbo Touch Association

Nic made her debut for Australia in the Over 40s at the World Cup in Birmingham, England last year and also coached the Dubbo 12s side.

“I never ever thought I would play for my country. It was amazing to be given an opportunity in my 40s.

“Touch brings camaraderie to a school and community environment as everyone has a place in the team. It is unbelievable to watch as

the players and their siblings come together and are so supportive and encouraging.

“Participating and watching others helps the kids to learn skills.

“It is especially satisfying when the young ones are cheering their older siblings and parents with a range of health benefits.

“It’s definitely evolved. There’s more emphasis on fitness and preparation. There’s so much sports science these days, more knowledge on how we should prepare, nutrition and hydration and how we should do our warmups and recoveries.

“Dubbo Touch is celebrat-

Fresh faces, seasoned swimmers at Dubbo Ducks Sunday dabbling

By GEOFF MANN

DUBBO Ducks swimming club held its weekly races last Sunday morning, with a mix of seasoned swimmers and fresh faces taking to the water.

While a technical fault forced the postponement of the 25-metre Vern Traeger race, the remaining events provided plenty of excitement and close finishes.

The 25-metre Freestyle Relay saw a thrilling competition with Rob Rich and Henry Wilkocockson clinching first place, followed closely by Euan Gardiner and Kath O’Rourke in second. Peter Hargreaves and Ester Grace rounded-out the top three. Notably, both Jack Allen and Marg Ross were disqualified in the final after exceeding their allocated times.

The 25-metre Backstroke proved equally competitive. Neil Harris emerged victorious, finishing a mere 0.06 seconds off his allotted time. A nail-biting finish also saw David Sparkes and Mark Scullard share second place, both finishing just 0.21 seconds off their target. Peter Allen was disqualified for exceeding his allotted time and missed out on first place.

The 25-metre Freestyle/25-metre Breaststroke wads again a race against allocated times in which Ester Grace take a well-deserved first place. John Wherritt coming in second, and Ron Everett third.

The Club also extends a warm welcome to its two newest members, Ester Grace and Kath O’Rourke. Both ladies made an immediate impact, with Ester Grace taking first place in the 25-metre Freestyle/25-metre Breaststroke and Kath O’Rourke contributing to a second place in the Freestyle Relay. Their impressive performances suggest they will be strong contenders in future races, adding to the club’s already vibrant competition.

The postponed 25-metre Vern Traeger race is scheduled to be held next week.

ing 50 years. November 7 is the anniversary – sevena-side, no shoes, chip-andchase kicking.

“Over 1000 juniors at the end of our summer comp, and those numbers are growing.

“Dubbo has been super-amazing and everyone just gets in and pulls together. We’ve learned a lot over the first three years and who knows, we might even become a more permanent fixture on the Touch NSW calendar!”

Maddi Drew (Crowe) –Australian Emus star “I’ve been to two World

Cups; lucky enough to have brought home gold medals with the Emus from both.

“Australia has really developed the skill of the sport. It’s fast and furious and very inclusive so everyone can find their place. It is a special opportunity for women in sport and our Emus are up their with the Matilda’s, Opals and our cricketers as elite athletes.

“The game has changed from 7–10 players and the speed of execution. Now 12–14 players per team for the State Cup, plus physios, masseurs and team managers as well as first-aiders.”

Pennants duties don’t dent top bowls morning numbers

DESPITE quite a number of players representing in the Pennants tournament, 39 competitors still turned-out and enjoyed their morning of bowls last Sunday in the RSL Combination format.

Winners for the day were Ken Whittaker, John Kennedy, and Brian Jones with second place going to only two players this week, Roger Sherwin and Matt Quill.

Third place went to Di Cullen, Steve Evans, and Phil Knight with the three “resters” shared by Shirley Marchant, Bryan O’Sullivan, and Matt Quill. The lucky numbers for the day, were won by Mary Perry, Tracy Keenan, and Alan Stratford

Welcome also to the Club’s two new players this week, Averial Cox and Robert Edwards, with the Club hoping that they enjoy their Sunday morning bowls; also with a great shout-out to Maurice Wallace who has shown improvement each week.

As always, new and casual players are most welcome and can call 0419 248 520 for more information. Players names to be in by 9am for a 9.30 start.

In other news, the Club‘s AGM was held following the presentation and although unfortunately Chairman, Bill Greenwood could not attend, Tom Gray did fill- in admirably.

The Committee for 2025 is as follows

Chairman: Bill Greenwood

President: Graham Ross

Treasurer: Bryan O’Sullivan

Secretary: Margaret Ross

Committee: Mel Giddings, Gordon Scott, Peter Bennison, Phil Knight, Steve Kelly, Ian Humphries and Garry Huggins.