By COLIN HODGESBefore having starters at the transferred Parkes meeting at Gilgandra on 15 May, former champion jumps jockey Frankie Stockdale worked his horses at Forbes Racecourse.Accompanied by his wife Julie and daughter Franki, the Packenham (Victoria) based trainer is on a working holiday with plans to race his five horse team at Rockhampton and Cairns in Queensland.Briefly interrupting the journey in Gilgandra, Stockdale had two starters: the 2400 metres stayer Dubai Moon, ran a strong finishing third over 1280 metres in the opening event won by Starlink and Riverside Special which came from last for an unlucky third to Arctic Rover.The son of trainer Bill Stockdale, Frankie Stockdale as a 15 year old apprentice riding at his first meeting won at Traralgon on Call Me Luck trained by his uncle the late Allan Douch.A brilliant young rider with over 60 winners including wins on Melbourne tracks, Stockdale by age 17 had become too heavy to continue riding on the flat and switched his attention to jumps racing where he became a star.In a sport which requires plenty of courage from a rider, the many wins for Frankie Stockdale included the 1994 Grand National Hurdle at Flemington on Tennessee Blue for trainer Jim Houlihan, the 1996 Grand National Steeplechase on Best Endeavours for  trainer Pat Hyland, the Australian Steeplechase at Flemington on Hussars Best trained by B.J Bennett and the Yalumba Hurdle at Oakbank ( SA ) on Big Zap trained by Allan Douch.Frank Stockdale. IMAGE twitter - racing.comFrankie’s wife Julie Stockdale was also a prominent jockey on the Picnic circuit with a highlight being 4 winners on the day at the Hinnomunjie Picnics held near Omeo in the Victorian High Country.Julie’s sister Kerry Farrugia became the first female to outride the apprentice allowance In country Victoria and amongst her many winners in the professional ranks during the 1980’s and 1990’s she had over 100 wins on horses trained at Sale by her father Mario Farrugia.Training with considerable success for over 50 years, Mario Farrugia is a Gippsland Hall Of Fame trainer.Father and son Stockdales at Pakenham, Vic in 2017. SOURCE: FacebookWith such a horse racing background it was no surprise that Brandon Stockdale, the son of Julie and Frankie Stockdale, was in the saddle from a very early age.At age 16 Brandon Stockdale after earlier wins rode his first Melbourne winner, Oncebittentwiceshy at Sandown in April 2015.Earning rave reviews for his great horsemanship after his saddle slipped badly at the start, Brandon in June 2015 rode his first Flemington winner, the $61 outsider Bon Rocket.The very talented Brandon Stockdale became a leading apprentice in Victoria however a race in 2017 was extra special when he won on Unique Lovely at Moonee Valley, the first Melbourne winner trained by his father Frankie Stockdale.Further down the track another family member might emerge on the racing scene, seven year old Franki Stockdale who is being home schooled by her parents during the trip to Queensland.Already a capable rider, Franki has been seen on her little piebald pony trotting behind her father Frankie as he exercises his gallopers.

Report courtesy of The Black CatRound three of the Western Plains Rugby Competition saw Warren take on Coonamble at Victoria Oval last Friday night.The Black Cat would like to apologise for his slow start to the season but it’s not his fault the committee forgot to pick him up from the boarding kennels at the vet clinic in time for the first round.The Black Cat was checked into the cattery during the off season to have his claws trimmed by Robbo after some complaints throughout the zone about some of his jokes last season. Apparently the Albert Priest Channel is the humour cut off and its seems it is easier to throw your toys out of the cot rather than finding someone with the capacity to write a rebuttal.Warren's season thus farIn a brief recap of the season thus far the Pumas and Pumarettes had a successful start in Bourke winning 31-19 and 10-6 respectively. The second round of competition wasn’t so kind with a trip to the northern end of the zone where an experienced Walgett side put the Pumas away 44-10 but to the boys’ credit, they stood tall to the end and won the final 20 minutes 7-0 in a very courageous finish.The Pumarettes were neck and neck with the Walgett girls for the first three quarters but the Ewes’ bench, consisting of enough players for another two teams, put the girls to the sword in the dying minutes to win 8-3.President Noonan had to make a peace offering to Phil Fuller on the way home in the form of a packet of Winny Gold’s after three of the young jackaroos decided to empty their guts on Phil’s bus. The Black Cat will have to check with the statistician but Coach Smith believes this is the first hat trick of spews in the club’s history.ABOVE: Pumarette Simone Fletcher tags Coonamble's Sophie Cullen with referee Tim Whiteley watching on.Pumarettes continue to show improvementFriday night was our first home of the season and after a wet miserable week, the committee was relieved to end up with perfect weather to watch some rugby under lights at Victoria Oval. A healthy sized home crowd was present to watch some fast-paced women’s sevens, maybe a little too fast for referee Whiteley to keep up with. The girls’ skillset is continuing to improve in leaps and bounds and proved too strong for the Coonamble Ewes, winning 9-6. ABOVE: Warren's Clarry Pratten attempting to plough through the Rams forward line while Coonamble's Jack Ford tries to stop him in his tracks. Faster Pumas too quick for larger RamsThe main game proved to be a tight battle with the big Ram pack keeping a lid on the much smaller Pumas’ attack and despite having a 12-0 score at half time, the Warren coaches hammered into the players that they really needed to sharpen up in attack or the game was theirs to lose. The second half was a stalemate between both sides for the majority of the stanza until Sam Hunt ran a great line to find a hole in the Coonamble backline to score beside the posts, locking in a win for Warren.Next week is a bye for both of the Warren sides before a run of five consecutive home games starting with Gulargambone so there will be plenty of footy to watch in the not-too-distant future.ABOVE: Warren full back Hugh McLean was practically flying as he booted the ball down the field.

y ABIGAIL MCLAUGHLINTHE Tom Quilty Gold Cup is one of the oldest and best-known endurance rides in the world, and has traditionally attracted international competitors keen to try the unique Australian conditions.On July 9-10, the 56th Tom Quilty ride will be held around Tooraweenah at the foothills of the Warrumbungle Ranges in central NSW, and amongst the 300 competitors will be top-rated Mexican endurance rider Jose Luis Flores.Jose, 49, will be making the trip from his home city of Puebla to fulfill a long-held ambition to compete in the iconic event.“Ever since I learned about endurance riding, I’ve dreamed about riding the two most prestigious and oldest rides in the world – the Tevis Cup in the USA and Tom Quilty Gold Cup in Australia. I was planning to ride in Australia in 2020 when the pandemic hit so that plan was delayed.”Jose is one of the most experienced endurance riders in his home country. In 2019 he was the 80km national champion and also led the Mexican team to win the silver medal at the North American Endurance Ride C1*1 division as a rider; and to gold in the C12* as Chef de Equipe.The Tom Quilty Gold Cup was founded in 1966 by iconic Australian R.M. Williams and his wife Erica who were passionate about the sport and had heard about the legendary Tevis Cup 100-mile race in the United States. In developing the concept for an Australian 100-mile ride, R. M. Williams wrote to his friend Tom Quilty, a great horseman and cattleman in the Kimberly area of Western Australia, to ask for his support.Quilty donated $1000 which was used to make a gold cup, the prize for the winner of the event. This is a perpetual trophy, and the ride was named the Tom Quilty Gold Cup in his honour. The original Gold Cup now resides in the Stockman’s Hall of Fame, in Longreach, Queensland.All riders who complete the event are now given a specially crafted belt buckle.The race takes place in a different Australian state each year and requires competitors to ride 160km (100 miles) in 24 hours or less.Jose Flores will be in Tooraweenah for the 2022 Tom Quilty Gold Cup.Jose is experienced in riding this distance, having competed in the Tevis Cup, finishing 28th in a time of 20 hours and 45 minutes.For the Tom Quilty, Jose will borrow a horse from Australian rider Noni Seagram, of Fieryrange Arabians, Brindabella NSW.“Noni was kind enough in 2020 to offer me a horse to ride the Tom Quilty. She kept her offer after the pandemic, so this year I can say I will be honoured to ride one of her magnificent mounts.”“I plan to rent an RV as soon as I get to Sydney and take it to the ride camp at Tooraweenah. I’m hoping to get there a few days before the ride so I can set up, get to know the horse and get rid of jet lag.”“After the ride I am planning to drive the RV around Australia for a couple of weeks, mainly the south-eastern coast. I’m an avid scuba diver so I’m very excited about diving in Australia.”Although he grew up in Mexico’s largest cities, Mexico City and Puebla, Jose was introduced to horse riding by his grandfather, a cattle rancher.He later took interest in Arab horses and 17 years ago he founded Malek Arabians, the first Straight Egyptian breeding program in Mexico. “Immediately I was approached by my now good friend Ricardo Galán who was one of the founders of Endurance Mexico and I started riding long distances with them.“I was hooked immediately and couldn’t stop riding. At the same time I was involved in ironman distance triathlon racing so I jumped back and forth from competitions riding horses and bicycles.”“A few years ago, at age 14 my son Emilio asked if he could give it a try and started riding and loved it immediately to the point that he travelled with us, the Mexican Endurance Team to the North American Championship where he rode his first international AERC ride. He finished first place for young rider’s category and Best Condition.” To train for endurance riding Jose takes long rides on weekends and works out in the gym on week days. In the months leading up to a big ride such as the Tom Quilty he “ramps up” his regime, and in the final four weeks he tries to spend half his week strength training and half on a horse.This year around 300 riders will try their hand at the Tom Quilty course, which will work around the foothills of the magnificent Warrumbungle Range around the historic village of Tooraweenah.

By BRYSON LUFFThe Dunedoo Swans broke through for their first victory of the 2022 season in round four of the Christie and Hood Castlereagh League competition when they managed to see off the Baradine Magpies in their Boronia Cup Challenge game played at Dunedoo on Saturday 14 May.This was the Swans' first home game for the year, and they did not disappoint their large band of loyal supporters when they managed an 18 to 6 win over the visitors on a heavy Robertson Oval track.Scoring three tries to one, the green and whites followed on from their promising display against the Gilgandra Panthers the week before and gave an indication that they are not in the competition just to make up the numbers.As has been the norm between the Swannettes and the Magpies in recent years the League Tag encounter between the two clubs was again an absolute thriller and top-class affair with the Swannettes scoring after the final hooter to claim a 18 to 16 victory.Dunedoo Swans claimed their first victory against Baradine Magpies on the weekend. PHOTO: Peter SherwoodAt Gulgong the Terriers proved to be too strong for the Gilgandra Panthers, taking the game 18 points to six after leading 12 nil at the break.The Panthers could offer no excuses for the loss, having had the bulk of the possession in good field position for a lengthy portion of the first half but failing to grasp the opportunities presented to them by taking bad options in attack.It must be said that the deserved Gulgong victory was very much on the back of stout defensive effort throughout the encounter.Their fullback Ethan Pegus scored two of his teams three tries but it was his sublime handing skills in very slippery conditions that won him accolades after he repeatedly cleaned up the many grubber kicks sent his way by the Panthers and along with their lock, James Morrison, he stood out for the victors!The Narromine Jets continued their fine start to the season when they managed to stave off the Coonamble Bears in their top of the table clash played at the Jet’s Cale Oval.The Bears held an 8-nil lead after 18 minutes, having scored two unconverted tries and it wasn’t until eight minutes before the break that the Jets were able to breach the Coonamble defence and with the try converted the score board read 8 points to 6 in favour of the visitors at half time.The lead soon changed after the resumption of play with the Jets going in for a converted try just two minutes in to the second half.The game moved from end to end, with both teams losing the ball just short of the line before a further Jets try secured them an 18 to 8 lead with 26 minutes remaining.The game looked as if it was reasonably safe in the Jets keeping until, with 15 minutes remaining, their lock was initially sin binned for advising the referee of the error of his ways.Further advice from the player was not well received by the match official and the number 13 was subsequently informed that his participation on the fixture was hereby terminated and the Jets were down to 12 men on the field for the remainder of the game.Three minutes after his departure a dazzling attacking raid by the Bears saw them go in for a converted try and with the scoreboard reading 18 to 14 it was game on!Soon after the Jets opted for a shot at goal after being awarded a penalty in a handy position and when that was duly slotted, they clung to a six-point lead with nine minutes remaining.The Bears were not going to die wondering, and the prospect of them salvaging at least a draw was well and truly on the cards as they constantly attacked the Narromine line, but the Jets scrambled in defence to hold on for a hard-fought victory which sees them now alone at the top of the competition ladder.The Jets will be out to maintain their high ranking when they take their first trip to Baradine this Saturday, with the Magpies, and and their vocal supporters, certain to give them a warm welcome to Maggieland.In other games this week there will be a western battle of the feathers at Cobar when the Roosters host the Dunedoo Swans at Tom Knight Oval and in the match of the round the Coonamble Bears will be at home to the Gulgong Bull Terriers. Christie and Hood Castlereagh League Round 4 Scores League TagDunedoo 18 (Brianna Smith, Amelia Taylor, Chloe Patrick, Georgie Lane tries, Hallie Hogden goal) defeated Baradine (Savannah Carey, Kira Gardiner, Ashanti Pennell tries, Maria Nagy 2 goals)Gilgandra 26 (Mab Fuller 2, Rani Diggs, Shian Chatfield, Kylie Louie tries, Chatfield 3 goals) defeated Gulgong 10 (Taylor Pennell, Emily Kirk tries, Mel Robinson goal)Narromine 38 (Emily Edwards, Lily Spackman, Millah Phillips, Dannielle Harris, Logan McKenna-Maidens, Bradey Leech, Jacana Powell tries, Jannalie Dwyer 3, Powell, Spackman goals) defeated Coonamble 16 (Tori Canham 2, Emily Ryan, Mickayla McEwen tries)Trangie V Binnaway game deferred due to the state of the Trangie gameCobar bye Competition LadderDunedoo 12, Gulgong 10, Narromine 10, Gilgandra 10, Baradine 9, Cobar 8, Coonamble 6, Trangie 4*, Binnaway 3*     *= game in hand Rugby LeagueDunedoo 18 (Camden Sutton 2, Shannon Doole tries, Dan Lane 3 goals) defeated Baradine 6 (Johno Evans try, Jesse McElhinney goal)Gulgong 16 (Ethan Pegus 2, Curtis Wolthers tries, James Morrison 2 goals) defeated Gilgandra 6 (Jamie Towney try, DJ Smith goal)Narromine 20 (Jordan Richardson, Jahreyd Usher, Kyle Smith tries, Janus Walford 4 goals) defeated Coonamble 14 (Tyrell Kennedy, Mark Jones, Daniel Sangster tries, Jacob Fernando goal) Competition LadderNarromine 12, Coonamble 10, Gulgong 10, Cobar 10, Gilgandra 8, Dunedoo 8, Baradine 7, Trangie 7 Round 5 Saturday 21st May: Coonamble V Gulgong, Baradine V Narromine, Cobar V Dunedoo, Binnaway V Gilgandra, Trangie bye.

Today marks the start of National Volunteer Week (16 - 22 May), a chance to forget about the federal election and take time to recognise and celebrate the volunteers that make our communities stronger.If you live in or near one of the small towns across the western plains there's every chance you are one of this week's V.I.P.s. In smaller towns, many of the services we use every day and almost all the sports and special occasions that we enjoy are made possible by the efforts of volunteers like you.  “This National Volunteer Week, we celebrate the significant contribution made by all of the five million volunteers across Australia," said CEO of Volunteering Australia Mark Pearce.  “This year’s theme is ‘better together’. Volunteering brings people together; it builds communities and creates a better society for everyone."  "Together, through volunteering, we are changing communities for the better.”  It's the womb to tomb approach that creates country communities.  You may be on a committee that runs a playgroup or preschool, help run the canteen at school, drive a bus for your local youth centre, fundraise for cancer support services, set up the pavilion at the annual show, cook the barbeque at the footy, deliver meals on wheels or run the bingo, you may even sit on your local council.  In even the smallest towns there is so much to do and so many cogs to make the wheels go around.  From local Aero Club members who refuel aircraft at the airstrip through to retired nurses who run yoga or Zumba classes to keep us well, church members who conduct their own services when no priest is available through to those who provide critical rapid response in emergencies.   This year Volunteering Australia is calling on everyone to ‘wave your appreciation’ for volunteers and thank the millions of volunteers around Australia.   "With flooding, fires and the ongoing impacts of the pandemic, the past few years have undoubtedly been tough for all Australians," Mr Pearce says.  "Holding us up in these times of crisis are over one million volunteers supporting Australia’s crisis resilience, of which more than 400,000 work directly in emergency response and relief." Some of Lachlan shire's emergency service volunteers at a recent training session. PHOTO Sally Bennett. Our nation’s volunteers are the country’s backbone during crisis and emergency and a new report has revealed how essential volunteers are to Australia’s crisis resilience.  The Volunteering Australia research examines the volume and breadth of volunteers playing crucial roles in communities during natural disasters and COVID-19 outbreaks.   This skilled workforce includes over 200,000 volunteers in fire services organisations and around 25,000 volunteers in State and Territory Emergency Service.   A further 200,000 volunteers are engaged in over 1,000 registered emergency and relief charities.   On top of this, many thousands of often ‘invisible’ volunteers help informally and spontaneously to support communities before, during and after crises.   "Our communities have taken a big hit in recent times and yet volunteers are always there when we need them," Mr Pearce said.  Volunteers contribute significantly across crisis prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery in many key roles.   “The aftermath and the impact of disasters are felt long after an event has taken place. Volunteers provide support to those affected by crises, including in mental health and suicide prevention services, which typically experience a surge in demand during and after disasters,” Mr Pearce says.   Mental health and suicide prevention services are especially critical during major emergencies, including the COVID-19 pandemic.   For example, Lifeline engages 10,000 volunteers across Australia. In 2018, these volunteers answered 739,481 calls and initiated 5,840 emergency interventions for Australians in need of crisis support.   Through the pandemic and following the recent floods calls for help have skyrocketed so we need our volunteers now more than ever.  “We encourage everyone to come together and support their communities by offering your time and skills to help others," Mr Pearce says.  Volunteering Australia is calling on all Australians to ‘wave your appreciation’ and share a photo of themselves waving their hand of thanks and using the hashtags #NVW2022 and #waveforvolunteers.  So if you're a member of a volunteer group, or just a helper in your community, give yourself a wave this morning in the mirror then go out and show your appreciation to any other volunteers you see.  If you have a story about a special unsung volunteer or group in your area then drop us a line and let us know [email protected], message us on facebook or give us a call 0428 222517. 

Reports courtesy of Cobar & Districts Rugby Union ClubBactrians outpaced by Lady Rams in season debut The Cobar Bactrians kicked off their first game of the season at home. With Lesley Tiffen running onto a kick chase scoring early, followed by a mid-field break through the middle by Georgie Buckman. Unfortunately, Coonamble stamina proved too strong for the Cobar Bactrians closing the game out with the score board reflecting 2-7, Coonamble's way. The coaches were still proud of all of the girl's efforts and have a great understanding on things that the girls need to improve on, identifying weaknesses and implementing ways to combat them as a team at training.ABOVE: Cobar's Bethany Smith receiving the ball with Isabella Morten supporting while Coonamble's Xanthe Van Lubeck readies to attempt an intercept. Camels keep up until final minutesCobar Camels were off to an impressive start with Will Peckham scoring off the kick off to commence the game. Conversion was successful by Kody Martin. Kody Martin displayed a good old 'show and go' movement straight through the middle to award himself a try and a successful conversion right under the goal post. Next up to cross the line was camel's young gun Lochlan Ford who unfortunately sustained an injury towards the end of the game. Tony Jacklin (coach) was last to add more points onto the Camels scoreboard, unfortunately the Camels didn't get the win, with a final score of 25-38 Coonamble's way, however the vibes were great and the coaches were pleased to see everyone's dedication to training paying off especially with the boys performance.ABOVE: Cobar's Jake Harrison, Jarrod Blake and Taufao Taufao catch a breather on the sidelines during the game.

This weekend's Brewarrina Race Day meeting has been officially called off by NSW Racing this morning (Wednesday 11 May) following extensive rainfall throughout the western region.The races were due to be held this Saturday 14 May, with visitors expected to converge in Brewarrina from across NSW and even interstate. With an already soggy race track seeing an additional 10mm of rain this morning - and an expected 20-40mm expected for the area throughout the day, according to today's Elder's weather forecast - NSW Racing officials made the call shortly before midday after inspecting the conditions. Belinda Colless from the Brewarrina Jockey Club said it was a disappointing result considering how much the community was looking forward to the event, however they knew it was the right decision. "We were hopeful it would still go ahead right up until this morning - even when rain is predicted, you have to wait until it actually hits the earth before making a call - however we understand NSW Racing have to ensure the track is safe for the horses and jockeys," Ms Colless said. "Unfortunately, due to the regional rain, it can't be relocated elsewhere - it's more than likely the races in Coonabarabran and Parkes will also be called off, so it's certainly affecting other communities in addition to ours. "We are disappointed obviously, but you can never say you’re disappointed for the rain out here."ABOVE: NSW Racing ruled the track too unsafe for jockeys and horses. Image courtesy of Belinda Colless. Ms Colless said the jockey club was hopeful it could work with NSW Racing to try and schedule a new date, with an official request expected to be sent this afternoon. "We have a new (racing) committee, some new additions at the track and a returfed race course which we really want to showcase as part of our community," she said. "In light of COVID, we know a lot of people looking for a reason to get out and enjoy events like this, so we're really committed to try and find a new date."

WITH water laying on several sections of the track, the Marthaguy Picnic Races that were set for this Saturday 7 May have been cancelled for 2022 with just four days to go.Chief Stipendary Steward for the Western Racing Association Dean Bucknell inspected the track with Race Club members at 2pm on Monday afternoon 2 May and it soon became clear the track would not dry in time for Saturday’s event."In one section water was still flowing onto the track from the saturated long grass in the surrounding paddock so it was pretty clear it wasn't going to dry out in time," said race club Secretary Marg Garnsey.Around 50 millimetres of rain fell at the Quambone Sportsground & Racecourse on 26 & 27 April, coming on top of other falls in early April and a whopping 77 millimetres on 31 March."We went around the track on a quad bikes and on foot, but Dean had driven in to the Sportsground and we had to tow him out." Mrs Garnsey said.WRA's Chief Stipendiary Steward Dean Bucknell receives a small tow from Marthaguy Picnic Race Club member Larry Garnsey. PHOTO: M GarnseyMarthaguy Race Club Secretary Marg Garnsey said that they had explored the option of finding other dates at the end of last week when the rain continued to fall."Unfortunately no other dates are available from Racing NSW," she said. "But it was fortunate that the cancellation came far enough ahead of the races that catering and other orders had not been picked up.""We ran successfully in 2021, we missed 2020, and we ran in 2019," Mrs Garnsey said. "It's looking like it's an every second year event. But it's much better to find out now than just a day or two out."An indication of heavy track conditions at Quambone racecourse on Monday 2 May. PHOTO M Garnsey.

By COLIN HODGESHaving both strong links with the local community and heavy support in the betting ring, it was fitting that Rylan’s Pick and Rogue Runner fought out an exciting finish to the 1400 metres Nyngan RSL - Nyngan Cup before a big crowd on Anzac Day.The winner Rylan’s Pick is owned by local identities Ken and Kerry Wright, is trained at Dubbo by Brett Robb formerly from Nyngan, and was one of four winners on the day for jockey Clayton Gallagher who served most of his apprenticeship with Rodney Robb at Nyngan.Rodney Robb, the trainer of runner-up Rogue Runner, is the father of Brett Robb and has been the backbone of racing at Nyngan for decades.Although easing from $2.60 to $3.40 favourite when the money came for Rogue Runner ($8 to $3.80), Rylan’s Pick nevertheless proved costly for bookmakers.Leading all the way Rylan’s Pick (Clayton Gallagher) survived a serious challenge in the straight to score by a half length from Rogue Runner (Jake Barrett) with the Wayne Marsden, Menindee-trained Allez Rev (Zara Lewis, $11) a similar margin away in third place.First leg of a double for Brett Robb was Legal Zou (Clayton Gallagher, $2fav.) which set the pace and after a stirring battle over the final 200 metres prevailed by a head from the Rodney Robb-trained Looking Forward (Jake Barrett, $11) with Mr Bobcat (Tiffany Jeffries, $4.60) third in the 1100 metres Nyngan Bowling Club Class 1 Handicap.Disqualified after “ winning” a race at Gilgandra, the Kylie Kennedy, Narromine trained Padrone remained eligible for Maiden Class and took out the 900 metres Maiden Plate at Nyngan.Running second behind Rewardus to the turn, Padrone (Clayton Gallagher, $3.80) shot away for a five lengths win over Shotgun Sophie (Tiffany Jeffries, $3.20 fav.) and Stylish Star (Elissa Meredith, $4) which came from a long last.Owned by a syndicate of agents from Victoria, Drunkasamonkey had four unplaced starts in that State before joining the Brett Robb stable at Dubbo.First up for Robb in the 1400 metres Maiden Plate, Drunkasamonkey (Clayton Gallagher, $1.80 fav.) was the leader and won by a half length from Monetise (Elissa Meredith, $7.50) and Rupicasso (Andrew Banks, $3.40).The $1.80 favourite No Debt (Jake Barrett) led by four lengths turning for home but was run down and beaten a half head by the Clint Lundholm trained Bandahara (Andrew Banks, $7) with Kallie (Clayton Gallagher, $5.50) third in the 1200 metres Inland Petroleum Benchmark 45 Handicap.Last start Bourke winner, the Connie Greig trained Billy Bent Ear (Jacob Golden, $6), from near last, came with a rush to beat the leader Expect A Hero (Jake Barrett, $3.20 fav.) and Japingka (Clayton Gallagher, $4.20) in the 900 metres Benchmark 58 Handicap.

Warren's Peyton Callaghan was riding high over the weekend of 9-11 April, taking out the top spot in her age group during the Pony Club's State Championships for Sporting, Campdraft and Team Penning.Ms Callaghan was among around a dozen young riders located from across the Western Plains who demonstrated great skill with their horses at the championships earning them top rankings in their age divisions.Despite the wet weather over the weekend organisers from Zone 4 of Pony Club NSW hosted the event at the Coonamble Showground earlier this month.With some late withdrawals due to COVID and a couple of lame horses, 105 riders from 13 different zones within NSW and 17 Queensland riders participated in events over the weekend, supported by around 300 parents, judges and other volunteers.Along with five local riders from Coonamble, Zone 4 was represented by 19 other riders from various parts of the region, including from the Narromine, Warren and Warrumbungle shires.Coonamble has hosted the event previously, with volunteer organisers needing to adapt to extremes in weather conditions."We had more than 200 riders here in 2000 when we had ten inches of rain and our barrels were floating in the main arena," said Event Co-ordinator and Zone Instructor Fiona Pennell."That year the grounds stood up and we were able to run every event.""We last held it here in 2015 so it was mid-drought and pretty dusty.""This time, for the amount of rain we had, the grounds were fantastic. There was some water sitting in the campdraft area but we just held off for a few hours."We had to get the cattle in on Wednesday so that if it did rain we knew we could go ahead with the event," she said. The Trot Up, where horses are scanned and then assessed for fitness, was delayed from Friday afternoon until Saturday morning to allow the grounds to recover from the 30mm of rain on Friday afternoon. Over the three days of competition, the state's top riders went head to head in five age groups with strong competition in each.The Under 11 Years (14 riders), 11 and Under 13 Years (22 riders), 13 and Under 15 Years (23 riders), 15 and Under 17 Years (22 riders) and 28 riders in the 17 and Under 26 Years category. Following initial heats and finals, ribbons were then awarded for up to 10th place in each age category.ABOVE: The Zone 4 Sporting team get ready for action. Image supplied.Western Plains finalistsIn Saturday's Sporting events all 105 riders competed including Mendooran's Chloe Harris; Warren's Peyton Callaghan, Matilda Whiteley, Lewis Leonard and Alex Hamblin; and Narromine's Millie Packham, Ella Packham and Charlotte Masonwells.Chloe Harris made an impressive six finals throughout the event, coming 6th in the Flag, 10th in Bending, 2nd in the Barrel, 4th in BBB, 6th in Diamond Flag, 3rd in the 3 Mug Race and 5th in the Figure 8.Millie Packham took 7th in the Flag, 7th in the Diamond Flag and 3rd in the 3 Mug Race.Ella Packham came in 10th in the Bending and 4th in the Diamond Flag finals.Charlotte Masonwells came 5th in the Bending, 8th in the Barrel, 2nd in the Diamond Flag and 4th in the Figure 8.Matilda Whitley ended up 8th in the Bending, 6th in the Diamond Flag and 9th in the 3 Mug Race.Lewis Leonard took home 7th in his Bending Final while Alex Hamblin ended up 9th in his and 10th in the BBB.Warren's Peyton Callaghan took out 4th in the Flag 2nd in the Bending, 6th in the Barrel, 2nd in the BBB, 5th in the 3 Mug Race and 6th in the Figure 8. She was also awarded Champion Rider in the 13 and under 15yrs division.ABOVE: Warren local Peyton took out Champion Rider in the 13 and under 15yrs bracket. Pictured on Saturday with with Fiona Pennell. Image supplied.Meanwhile, the riders competing from Coonamble were Tahlia Dewson, Natalie Gallen, Mia Nalder and Dakota Kennedy with all five coming home with ribbons.Tahlia Dewson made three finals (flag, bending and 3 mug race) and finishing 1st in the 3 Mug Race, 4th in Bending, 5th in the Flag, 7th in Barrel, and 9th in the Figure 8 event.Natalie Gallen competed on all three days in Sporting, Campdraft and Team Penning taking out 5th place in the Bonfield Bounce Bend (BBB) and 6th in the Bending. Dakota Kennedy came 7th in the BBB, which requires riders to jump a row of barrels and weave through a series of pegs, competing against the clock.Mia Nalder took home 7th in the Diamond Flag and 8th in the BBB.For the Sporting competition, Zone 13 (Walcha/Uralla area) won the Inter-Zone Championship and the Queensland riders took home the Inter-State Championship.Ms Pennell says that the local riders performed beyond expectations."It was exceptional for all of our riders to come away with ribbons," Ms Pennell said. "Those girls went for it. They went from second gear to sixth and got great results."Campdraft achieversIn Sunday's Campdraft, 71 riders competed using stock supplied by local producers Adam and Rowena Macrae, and Luke and Cassie Andrews and under the eye of judge Jack Brown of Dubbo.  Seven riders from Zone 4 competed with Natalie Gallen taking out 3rd place in her age group. Alex Hamblin ended up in 4th.In Campdraft, Zone 7 (Merriwa/Denman area) won the Inter-Zone Championship and the Inter-State Championship was won by NSW with a team consisting of three Zone 7 riders and a Zone 4 rider, Ned Kennedy from Trangie.Monday was spent Team Penning, with 13 Teams of 3 riders competing using cattle donated by the Andrews and judged by David Grant from Coonabarabran.ABOVE: Some of the riders who took part in the Campdraft competition. Image supplied.Zone 4 entered four teams and Team 136 of Natalie Gallen, Anna Toohey, Ruby Josephs placed 2nd.Another Coonamble rider, Hope Smith, joined in and her team was unlucky not to place on the day.Throughout the weekend, adults from each zone put their hands up to volunteer as judges, timekeepers, scorers, lines people, walkers to put flags back in their poles, and stockhandlers."If it weren't for the volunteers helping it wouldn't happen," Ms Pennell said. "The riders and all the volunteers really pulled together to make it a wonderful weekend."

By BRYSON LUFFThe 2022 Christie and Hood Castlereagh League kicked off on Saturday 23 April, but not before a tumultuous start to the competition, highlighted by the total withdrawal of the Coonabarabran Unicorns from the current season earlier in the week.The Unicorns, along with the Binnaway Bombshells, had previously indicated that they would not be fielding a first-grade side in 2022, but would continue with a league tag side throughout the year in the hope that the club could regroup and rebuild a first-grade team next year.This meant that a total re-jig of the previously adopted draw had to be done and this was finally settled upon just a few weeks ago.Check out the Western Plains App's 2022 ANZAC Day Services - including times and details for local marches and ceremonies.Unfortunately, the problems that beset the Unicorn’s first grade side have now also affected their league tag team and the club has sadly made the move to totally withdraw for the season, leaving the Castlereagh League competition with nine clubs.The League will run with the draw that was arrived at a few weeks ago, with clubs drawn to play Coonabarabran now having a bye.Not an ideal start to the year, but nonetheless the competition did get underway last Saturday with first grade wins going to Narromine, Cobar and Coonamble.Playing in their first Castlereagh League competition game the Narromine Jets got their campaign underway with a solid 38 to 14 win over local rivals, the Trangie Magpies at Trangie, scoring eight tries to three in the process to continue their good form after winning the Castlereagh League knockout at Gilgandra just a few weeks earlier.Further west a mistake-riddled Gilgandra Panther outfit paid the price against the Cobar Roosters at Cobar’s Tom Knight Memorial Oval, going down 34 to 14 after being well in the match at half time with the scoreboard then reading 18 points to 10 but the home side’s power, aided by Gilgandra’s lack of ball security saw the red white and blues secure a flying start to their season.In the remaining game, at Baradine it was a close affair between the Magpies and their arch rivals, the Coonamble Bears, but in the final washup the visitors claimed the important competition points with a tight 26 to 22 victory.Looking to round two all three first grade games present as interesting affairs with Narromine hosting the Gulgong Bull Terriers in what will be the Terriers first competition game for the year making them a bit of an unknown quantity at this early stage of the competition.Certainly the Jets, whilst pleased with their opening win over Trangie, will need to be on their guard against what should be an enthusiastic Gulgong outfit.Similarly, the Dunedoo Swans will be on the road for their first game of the season when they attempt the very often extremely difficult task of upsetting the Coonamble Bears on the Bear’s home patch.The Bear’s have a young side who like to give the ball have plenty of lateral movement and the Swan’s defence could well face a stern test.In the other game the Trangie Magpies and the Gilgandra Panthers will clash at Trangie, this being Trangie’s Old Boy’s Day and it would seem that the Panther’s will be playing in front of a large and vocal Magpie crowd that will be willing the home side on.Both teams will be keen to grab the competition points after they both went down in the opening round.Round 1 scoresLeague Tag Gulgong 30 (Tayla Pennel 2, Ebony Hudson 2, Kate Jackson, Abby Hollow tries, Mel Robinson 3 goals) defeated Binnaway 4 (Claire Jones try).Gilgandra 18 (Mab Fuller 2, Sarah Wighton tries, Shian Chatfield 3 goals) defeated Cobar 8 (Brianna Watson, Jezebel Hitchins tries).Narromine 60 (Logan McKenna- Maidens 4, Emily Edwards 3, Victoria Newland, Millah Phillips, Lily Spackman, Jeaona Powell, Jannalee Dwyer, Haleigh McCarney tries McKenna-Maidens 4 goals) defeated Trangie 0Baradine 24 (Zali Hyde, Ashanti Pennell, Madison Masman, Hayley Andrews tries, Maria Nagy 4 goals) defeated Coonamble 0Dunedoo bye Competition ladder: Narromine 3, Gulgong 3, Baradine 3, Gilgandra 3, Dunedoo 3, Cobar 1, Coonamble 1, Binnaway 1, Trangie 1.Rugby League Cobar 34 (David Watson 2, Lomah Autua 2, Tom Plater, Gerald Mackay tries, Plater 5 goals) defeated Gilgandra 14 (Jamie Towney 2, Anthony Harris tries, David Smith goal).Narromine 38 (Wax Neyaupa 2, Jahrydd Usher 2, Doug Potter, Luke Thompson, Tylah Beer, Alexander Marr tries, Potter 2 goals) defeated Trangie 16 (DJ Kennedy 2, Mick Louie tries, Matt Williams 2 goals)Coonamble 26 (Jyesin Dixon 2, Tyrell Kennedy, Mark Jones, Jeremy Fernando tries, Andrew Wallace 3 goals) defeated Baradine 22 (Billy Carey, Jarvis Watton, Teigan Daniels, Logan Dewson tries, Carey 3 goals) Competition Ladder: Narromine 3, Cobar 3, Coonamble 3, Gulgong 3, Dunedoo 3, Baradine 1, Gilgandra 1, Trangie 1. Round 2 Saturday 30 April.Binnaway V Cobar, Coonamble V Dunedoo, Trangie V Gilgandra, Narromine V Gulgong, Baradine bye

Contributed by RICKY LOOTENThe Coonamble Campdraft and Challenge held their annual event over the weekend of the 24-27th of march.The weather went as per usual for this event very wet and windy for the best part of 3 days. This didn’t dampen the spirits with competitors travelling from as far away as Winton in QLD to test their horsemanship skills against the best.A massive thankyou to all sponsors from the major sponsor “Great Northern Tanks” right through to all our local sponsors. Anybody that has anything to do with organizing an event of this magnitude knows that without sponsors they simply don’t run.One of the Main draw cards for the weekend was the $50,000 Novice campdraft, with just over 200 entries in this event over 2 rounds the competition was fierce and some impressive scores were marked.1st Hugh Miles – Two timing chic2nd Troy Palmer- Willinga Park Fabels Playboy3rd Emma O’Shea- Ubutey Haley4th Sam Knight- Soda Impressive Kate5th William Durkin- Super Girl5th Emma O’Shea- Berragoon Hush7th Ben McNaughton- Febe8th Travis CroserJudges for the Novice event were Jason Simms and Jim Southeron. A special mention to one of our local competitors Paul Colwell who only missed out on a place by half a point, this was a massive effort considering the caliber of riders on show.After a run-off in the final Hugh Miles took home the major prize in this event.In the Challenge end of the arena the major Classic challenge was an exceptional showing of true horsemanship with the Mundubbera cowgirl Leah Reed and her horse “Southern Amego” taking out the win.Leah Reed and Southern Amego winner of the Classic Challenge. IMAGE supplied.The committee also held the Ron Wall Memorial colt starting event as the night time entertainment, whilst this was partially affected by the wet conditions the 3 competitors showed there grit and carried on breaking there horses in and put on a great spectacle for the crowd.Winner of the Ron Wall Memorial colt starting event, Josh Knight (left) president Will Lambell (right). IMAGE SUPPLIED.Another special mention to our local competitor in this event Nathan Burtenshaw for giving an awesome showing of himself and the skills he has learnt as a horse breaker.Judges Leah Reed and Will Durkin were very impressed with all three competitors and came to the decision the Josh Knight was the standout winner in this event with a very professional approach to his work. The event was made possible by the generosity of the cattle donors over the weekend, Philip and Tanya Curr of “Trewilga”, Luke and Briony Giblin of “Erdavale”, Jim and Lou Head of “Nebea South”, David and Ange Thompson of “Nebea”. The cattle were of an exceptional standard and the sheer logistics of organizing the cattle in such trying conditions was a massive operation.The committee is to be congratulated for a well run event in trying conditions and hopefully we can do it all again next year. 

By COLIN HODGESA record breaking crowd at Bourke on Easter Sunday saw Knee Slapper in an exciting finish win the 1600 metres Splashe Cola - Harry Hart Memorial Picnic Cup for Nyngan trainer Rodney Robb. Proving a bad result for bookmakers, the former South Australian galloper Knee Slapper was backed from $16 to $8 and took an estimated $35,000 from the betting ring. Emily Waters from Tumbarumba won her first race three weeks ago at Tullibigeal Picnics and she rode Knee Slapper very well at Bourke. Leading all the way, Knee Slapper held on to beat Allez Rev ( Ricky Blewitt,$8 ) by a head with the $1.90 favourite Gossip ( Leandro Ribeiro ) a length Away third. Gossip had won the recent Picnic Cups at Ardlethan and Tomingley however Leandro Ribeiro probed for a run at the top of the straight which did not materialise.A protest 3rd versus 1st was dismissed. Brazilian born Leandro Ribeiro had earlier won the first three races including the 800 metres Bourke Bowling Club Open Handicap on the Connie Greig, Dubbo trained nine year old gelding Billy Bent Ear.. Making it 8 wins and.30 placings from 110 starts, Billy Bent Ear ($2.20 favourite) raced near the lead and won by over three lengths from Rebecca’s Quest (Ricky Blewitt, $2.50) and Three Rar (Dylan Stanley, $5). First leg of the Leandro Ribeiro treble was the Brett Cavanough, Scone trained Jackal ($2.50) which led throughout for a convincing win over Rewardus (Breanna Bourke, $10) and Dare To Fight (Wayne Wheatley, $2.20 fav.) in the 800 metres Bourke Steel & Wire - Franks BP Service Station Maiden Plate. Leandro Ribeiro then rode last start Hillston winner Orezira for Menindee trainer Wayne Marsden in the 1000 metres Outback Ice & Outback Refrigeration Class B Handicap. The strongly supported Lenroy (Wayne Wheatley, $6.50 to $3.50) looked a big threat in the straight but was beaten threequarters of a length by Orezira ($2.40 fav.) with Keep No Secrets (Ricky Blewitt, $4.80) filling third place. Bill Hayes from Eugowra who has made a return as a trainer after time off has won successive races at Grenfell and Bourke with Run Callan Run. In the 1300 metres Nutrien Walsh Hughes-Dad N Dave Turf Class B Handicap at Bourke, Hoffy’s Dream (Emily Waters, $2.60) took the lead in the straight but was overhauled and beaten a half length by Run Callan Run (Dylan Stanley, $4.20). Sun Master ($6) finished third however was unlucky as Breanna Bourke reported she was disadvantaged when the saddle shifted soon after the start. Racing next at Nyngan on Anzac Day.

By BRYSON LUFFChristie and Hood Castlereagh Rugby League Local derbies in the south and north of the vast Christie and Hood Castlereagh League competition will highlight the opening round of the 2022 season.The Narromine Jets can expect a warm reception to Trangie’s Alan Burns’ Oval in what will be their first competition game in the Castlereagh competition after parting company with Group 11 at the end of the 2021 season.The Jets have already established that they mean business in their new surrounds and they claimed the silverware in the annual Castlereagh League knockout that was played in Gilgandra two Saturdays ago, grinding out a hard fought 8 points to 6 win over the Cobar Roosters in the final that was played in very heavy and wet conditions.Whilst too much cannot be read in to knockout form any winning form is good form and the Jets will be buoyed by their initial outing in the Castlereagh competition.They will however be facing a stern test in the form of the Trangie Magpies who also showed glimpses of competitive form in their two outings at the knockout.The Maggies will be looking for great support from what should be a substantial home crowd and the contest shapes as being a solid workout for both teams.Meanwhile in Baradine the northern Magpies will be hoping to open their 100th year celebrations with a victory over arch rivals, the visiting Coonamble Bears.Both sides put in encouraging displays in their knockout games and an open and exciting game is anticipated to be played out in front of an expected big crowd.The benchmark team from the truncated 2021 season, the Cobar Roosters, will be at home to the Gilgandra Panthers in what should be a western blockbuster with both teams willing to throw the ball around with strike players all over the park.The football at Cobar’s Tom Knight Memorial Oval will be one of the highlights of what will be a big fundraising day and night being hosted by the Roosters at that venue for the Royal Fly Doctor Service and again a very big crowd is expected to take it all in.In the other first round games Coonabarabran will be at home to Dunedoo and Binnaway will host Gulgong.

By COLIN HODGESExperienced horseman Andrew Banks rode a treble, including the Cup winner Fearless Mila, under unusual circumstances on Saturday at Lightning Ridge.The final five races were flag starts after a barrier malfunction in the opening event won by Gunnerside.The last time flag starts were used in the region was well over 30 years ago at Trundle in the central west when the barriers became bogged.All that aside, it was a big crowd to see the well performed TAB performer Fearless Mila win the 1200 metres P W Concrete Lightning Ridge Cup for Dubbo trainer Clint Lundholm.Fearless Mila (Andrew Banks, 5) raced in a forward position and won by over a length from the Bryan Dixon, Gilgandra trained pair Ecker Road (Zara Lewis, $4) and Fox Spirit, Angela Cooper, $6).At the recent Mudgee TAB meeting Fearless Mila finished second to the Brett Robb trained All Words which won again on Sunday at Dubbo.First leg of the Andrew Banks treble was the Peter Mills, Quirindi trained Hillbilly ($4) which accounted for Turmoil (Jodi Worley, $5.50) and Saimaa (James Rogers, $10) in the 900 metres Class 1 Handicap.Andrew Banks then won the 1200 metres Maiden Plate on the Andrew Bayley, Coonamble trained and Canham family owned Miss Ash Star ($6) which settled behind the leaders then finished best to beat Direct Vision (Clayton Gallagher, $4.60) and More Than Venice (Jake Barrett, $2.20 favourite).Kieren Hazleton is building a handy team at Gilgandra and Japingka (Clayton Gallagher, $4) led throughout to win the 1000 metres Benchmark 58 Handicap from Another Sheila (Jodi Worley, $6) and Indian Thunder, Angela Cooper, $6).n Territory last winter and Gunnerside was placed at Adelaide River and Darwin.Contesting the 900 metres Maiden Plate at Lightning Ridge, Gunnerside (Elissa Meredith, $3.20 favourite) raced outside the leader then took control to win by over two lengths from Outback Pat (Zara Lewis, $7) and Dream Lad (Jacob Golden, $6).Dubbo based apprentice Elissa Meredith completed a double when the Kelly Smith, Collarenebri-trained Ringside ($6) shared the lead before scoring a close win over Legal Zou (Clayton Gallagher, $3 fav.) with Big Arjay (Zara Lewis, $6) finishing third in the 1200 metres Lost Sea Opals Benchmark 45 Handicap.Racing next in the western plains is Nyngan on Anzac Day.

By Warwick Waugh  GORDON Bray, the Iconic commentator that brought colour to our game gave me the nick name - “The Gulargambone Giant.”   I Cringed! I don’t know what I had more baggage about, being a Giant or the reference to Gulargambone.  That small one horse town, simple country folk, rough around the edges...  Whilst it took many years to enjoy the privilege of a 6’8’ stature, my home town heritage never left me and I came to be proud and grateful of two facts. One, being a freakishly big and two, and infinitely more important, being raised in Gulargambone. The old adage goes; you can take the boy out of the bush but you can't take the bush out of the boy. Thank Christ for that! Probably the best way to describe how I felt in my first couple of years of high school at Scots College would be how a Murray Cod felt in the Menindee a few years back.  I was gasping for air and definitely didn't feel like I should be there. Ironically, it came to serve me well. You learn to trust your instincts when growing up in the bush. Finding a home in rugby unionIn one of my last visits to the College in 1987 the incumbent second-rower at Randwick 1st Grade and PE Teacher, Warwick Melrose coerced me to head down to Randwick and meet Jeffrey Sayle at the Randwick rugby club.  After a little afternoon session he poured me into the back of a cab and I found myself at Randwick pre-season training at Latham Park a few days later.  The fellas around me all had familiar names Campese, Poidevin, McKenzie, Kearns, Ella to name a few.  Not following rugby that closely from Gular I was nevertheless humbled and impressed by these blokes to say the least, they went ok.  Whilst (my brother) Duncan and I were schooled in everything from tackling to scrums to touch footy to being turned inside out. They welcomed us. It felt like all we had to do was have a crack and it was good enough at Randwick. Since leaving Gulargambone I had never felt so at home and on that hot February Saturday afternoon the next chapter in my life began.  For the next 26 years this intuition served me well. Today I reflect on the luck that led me to Coogee and Randwick.  Thanks to the opportunity to pull on the boots and wear the Myrtle Green jumper I am enjoying a wonderful life.  What Gulargambone gaveWithout my roots being set on the flat hard country of ‘Nortongong’ and the die being cast by the Gulargambone community I would never have embraced the chance. Growing up in the bush taught me many things: Tribalism, my mob, how the community around us shapes us and the values that, if listened to, can serve us but if compromised will divide us.  I gratefully followed those innate values and they led me to where I am today. The first is having the head and heart to stand strong - resilience - I know that word gets used too much but it is essential in the bush. The second is resourceful. You couldn't run to Bunnings if something broke. Instead you wandered to the scrap heap, worked out how to fix it and got the show back on the road. The third was “suck it up.” You didn’t need to go to the doctor if you cut your head open playing silly buggars in the back of the ute. You patched it, learnt from it and got on with it. These values and many more taught me well and certainly resonated at Randwick; the bush gave me that.  Our kryptonite The irony is though, with our toughness, resourcefulness and resilience in the bush comes this need to wear the Superman/Woman Cape at all times.  We could not show weakness, we needed to be on top of our game - “she'll be right, I'm good, no worries, toughen up”….. and so it goes. This is our kryptonite!!! I'm not judging this, that's just the way it has evolved and what has made our country, especially the Bush the extraordinary place we live aligning ourselves with mother nature. But when we ask ‘how are you going?’ do we really listen to the answer? Often the enquiry into someone’s well being is asked without conviction and is rarely answered truthfully.  So here is the dilemma: We have communities that care, people who care about those in our communities, people who need these communities and people who can’t ask. The Giant from Gulargambone gets together with grassroots fans. Find support in sport Enter Stage Right: The beautiful medium of Sport and in particular the game of Rugby. If you ask me why I played rugby for Randwick, my response is pretty simple. “it felt right, it felt good, I belonged”. If you have ever played the game you will know what I am trying to articulate.  There is something magical that connects us when we take the field, collectively make contact with the opposition for your team and those around you. It is selfless and to play for any other reason will be exposed. Life could be belting us from all sides but for that 80 minutes on the field it didn’t matter. Somehow for that 80 minute game everything was OK. Of course when the final whistle blew it all returned but it wasn’t going to beat me.  Rugby and life Rugby, particularly ‘grassroots rugby’ is a wonderful metaphor for life’s experience. All the emotions humanity has to offer, can be experienced in that 80 minutes.  The elation, the camaraderie enjoyment and achieving, scoring tries.  You can also feel the despondency, despair the injustice, anxiety and all that sits on the pendulum of life's scale. But here is the kicker! On the Rugby field, with the team, with your tribe cheering you on, you never feel them alone. That's the joy of this great game.  The final three I reckon in reflection there's three things that I held dear that this game has directly gifted me by perspective. 1. It is a the privilege being born and growing up in Gulargambone and raised in the country by parents with country values. 2. My philosophy when coaching is this: “I don't care if you win, I don't care if you lose. But if you F&*K it up, do it at 100% having a crack and I’ll love you, your team mates will love you and your mob will too. 3. There is always stuff going on off the field that’s hard. It will be there after the game is over so for the next 80 minutes forget about it. You might even solve it on the field! Gulargambone etched in my soul the importance of our tribe, who we are, where we’re from and, thankfully, that guided me to Randwick and Rugby. Thank you Coonamble and the Classic Wallabies for bringing such an event to the region on 23 April.  I’m not sure where the grass is greener but I do know that we must keep the grass roots deep and watered.  Editor's note: Warwick Waugh was selected for his first Rugby World Cup in 1995 and went on to play a total of eight Tests for Australia in his five-year international career. 

ONE of the most iconic equestrian events in the world, the Tom Quilty Gold Cup, will be held in the picturesque Warrumbungle region from July 8-10, and a group of local junior riders is busily preparing to take part.Founded by outback legend RM Williams and his wife Erica more than 60 years ago, the Tom Quilty is an endurance ride where horse riders must cover 100 miles (160km) in one 24-hour day. The prestige associated with winning this event, as well as competing, is immense and around 400 riders from across Australia and overseas are expected to take part in this year's event. IMAGE: Animal FocusIt is the goal of all Australian endurance riders to attempt and be successful in this ride. Those who manage to complete the challenge are presented with a specially crafted belt buckleEach year the Tom Quilty is held in a different Australian state. In 2021 it was scheduled to be held at Tooraweenah in the foothills of the Warrumbungle Mountains which would have been exactly 30 years since the event was held in the same location in 1991. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 restrictions there was no ride last year but Tooraweenah will have its turn in July.The event has captured the attention of a dedicated group of young competitors from the local region who are now training and trying to gain qualification to enter.Local junior rider Lara Duff has already qualified to compete on her horse Pegasus. Riders must be 12 years old to enter which Lara will achieve just 10 weeks before the event.11-year-old Lara Duff (far right) training for the 2022 Tom Quilty Endurance Ride. Image: Animal Focus.Having successfully completed many 80km rides, Lara qualified with one 160km ride at the Tooraweenah Tom Quilty preview event held in July 2021.“That was a tough ride, raining and cold but my horse got me though along with encouragement from my family and friends. I can’t wait to participate in the Tom Quilty 2022, it’s very exciting and I’m so lucky to have it on home ground,” she said.Lara follows in the footsteps of her grandfather, mother, brothers and cousins and is thrilled to be part of such a long-standing family tradition.Another local junior, Charlie Bonham, is no stranger to the event having successfully completed a Tom Quilty ride in 2017 at the age of 13 in Queensland. Charlie regularly trains young Arabian horses and aims to bring home a second Tom Quilty buckle.Isabella Worner successfully completed her first 160km ride in 2021 and will team up with her mother Sara Worner to ride. Both Isabella and Sara started endurance riding in 2015 and are active members of the club. No doubt the start of another long family tradition. Fourteen-year-old Sophia Moppett, has yet to qualify for the event. To do so she must complete one 160km rides before July. “I adore the sport and love the team that I ride along with always willing to give a helping hand to anyone. I also love the challenge to get the horses through the vet checks sound and calm. I have learned a lot about nutrition and health for the horses. Having the Tom Quilty in Tooraweenah is a great inspiration to qualify,” Sophia said.The strength and resilience of the juniors who compete in this gruelling ride creates strong and independent young people who make our community proud.The strong bond between horse and rider enables both to work together to meet the challenges of the ride. 

Ahead of the visit to Warren and Coonamble by the Classic Wallabies on 22 & 23 April, home-grown Wallabies have been asked to reflect on their western roots and how this has influenced their rugby career.This is from Ned Hanigan, raised in the Hollywood area between Coonamble and Pilliga."COONAMBLE and its people play a special part in my why.  I can remember Dad dropping Char, Luke, Heather and I off at the bus with a molasses cart being towed behind. Like the days before a test match, the game plan was laid out and made simple - get the kids on the bus. But when a mob of swine run out in front of the ute, things change quickly - “Unhook that cart and hang on.”  Memories like this I use on the field when a game plan is not working.  You have to change quickly.  I can remember Mum waking up at sparrow, checking the heifers and being back in time to have our lunch boxes chockers of good food. On game day, I have to pack my own lunch and it’s still never as good.  I can remember as a 10year old, at David Peachey Shield days, all the parents standing on the sidelines of Coonamble fields, barracking for their kids.  It hasn’t changed now that I’m playing in stadiums around the world.  Mums and Dads, of the men playing, are still barracking from the sidelines.  I’ve learnt to cop the flies, the dust, the dry spells, the cow crap, the heat, the ants and the mice nearly dragging me out of bed of an evening.  Coonamble has taught me to keep resilient in times where things aren’t always as you’d like them.  I remember Anzac Day marches and the entire town showing up to pay homage. Coonamble has a real sense of community that pull together in times of need.  Just like on the football field when the All Blacks have put 20 points on you in the first 10minutes, you have to pull together.  It is memories like these I think about when I’m training and playing.  It reminds me of how fortunate I have been to have people around me that are so selfless. It reminds me of how fortunate I have been to have grown up in Coonamble.  The people that have given their time, their efforts and their support.  I want to give something back.  I want my family and the people of Coonamble to feel as though I am representing them the best way I can and be proud of it.  Chasing that sense of satisfaction that you have given everything you’ve got because that’s what people of Coonamble do.  I can’t wait to hear about how having the Classic Wallabies in Coonamble goes.  I wish I could be there. The Wallabies visiting may not be as good on the field as they once were, but I would bet their off field antics have only improved. And remember all those good stories they tell are only based on truth… 

By Colin Hodges  Adding yet another trophy to the collection at the Connie Greig stable in Dubbo, the six year old mare Gossip on Saturday won the 1500 metres Alkane Resources Tomingley Picnic Cup.  Connie Greig and Sydney based jockey Leandro Ribeiro have been dominant during the Picnic Racing season and at the previous start Gossip had won the Ardlethan Picnic Cup.  Travelling in fourth position at Tomingley, Gossip ($1.80 favourite) reeled in the leader Alpha Lane (Anaelle Gangotena, $4) and won by over a length with Chuck’N’Paul (Wayne Wheatley, $4.40) three lengths away third.  Ashley Gibson from Dubbo achieved his first win as a trainer when grey gelding Zurbaran won the 1500 metres Class B Handicap.  “Dad would be very pleased with the win," said Ashley Gibson who was referring to his late father Allan Gibson, for many years a successful trainer at Dubbo.  Leandro Ribeiro saved valuable ground when racing on the rails and Zurbaran ($3.20) sprinted through a gap to beat the fast finishing Distant Promise (Will Stanley, $4.00) and Kallie (Dylan Stanley, $1.80 fav.) which raced near the lead.  While trainer Clint Lundholm was at Royal Randwick with Amulet Street the third placegetter in the $500,000 Country Championship Final, he was represented at Tomingley by In The Road in the 800 metres Class 2 Trophy Handicap.  Moderately away, In The Road (Will Stanley, $1.80 v.) quickly moved through the field and was a convincing winner from Magic Smile (Dylan Stanley, $6) and Guiltless (Leandro Ribeiro, $2.50).  Formerly racing in Victoria with the most recent performances being unplaced runs in 3,500 metres hurdle races, Scriba at the first start for new trainer Geoff O’Brien at Quirindi, was a surprise winner of the 1150 metres Class 3 Trophy Handicap at Tomingley.  Finishing fast, Scriba (Wayne Wheatley, $7.50) overhauled My Shiromi (Will Stanley, $4.40) and Twice The Value (Dylan Stanley, $2.40 equal fav.) in the closing stages.  In the placings several times, the Denis Consadine, Gulgong trained Keep No Secrets broke through for a well-deserved win in the 1150 metres Maiden Plate.  Given a good run close to the leader by Ricky Blewitt, Keep No Secrets ($2 eq. fav.) cleared out to win by over four lengths from Winnsom (Leandro Ribeiro, $2 eq.fav.) and Nobby (Dylan Stanley, $3).  Owned by the Loftus and Fyfe families from Tullibigeal and trained by Kylie Kennedy at Narromine, Scruff’s Magic (Emily Waters, $4) led most of the way to win the opening event, the 800 metres Maiden Plate, from Pippie Star (Ricky Blewitt, $2.20) and Modify (Leandro Ribeiro,$1.80 favourite).  Tomingley attracted a big crowd with betting turnover well up on recent years.  Western racing is next at Warren (TAB) on Saturday 9 April.