Over the weekend a keen group of young rugby players from towns across the Western Plains travelled to Sydney to take part in the 2023 The Rugby Club Foundation Under 11 NSW Junior Rugby Union (JRU) State Gala, coming away the ultimate prize - the GR Paton Spirit of Rugby Shield. The children are all part of the NSWL JRU Western Plains Academy, an initiative that aims to develop rugby skills and provide quality rugby experiences for children across the Zone.  The Academy first launched in 2022, with around 30 children being selected to take part in the first rugby development opportunity of its kind. Those players participated in the NSWCU Country Champs, as well as the State Rugby 7s Champs, giving them a taste of what it was like to play rugby at a representative level.  Fast forward to 2023, 18 more players, who were selected during trials held back in March, joined the existing Academy members. A mixture of boys and girls, the Academy athletes are aged from 10 years old to 13 years old and come from western region towns including Narromine, Trangie, Warren, Nyngan, Coonamble, Bourke, and Brewarrina. “The Under 11s gala was an eye-opening experience for our young players,” said Gus McDonald, Country Coach Development and Education Manager for the Western Zone. “The Eric Tweedale Stadium is a magnificent facility,” he said. “There were six fields of footy all going at the same time, creating an amazing atmosphere for the kids. They played some of their games on the main oval which has seating for around 5000 people, that was an awesome experience for them. There were even a few Wallabies in the crowd, something that only added to the excitement!”  The essence of the tournament was about having fun and enjoying the game, all whilst providing an entry level experience to rep rugby. “It’s an iconic event in the junior rugby calendar and was well worth the trip down to Sydney”.  Over the course of the weekend, the U11s played five games of twelve a side rugby. Coached by Tim Harrison and Mark Pitts, the children played with passion and enthusiasm. “Most of our players only have experience with Rugby 7s and are used to playing cross field,” said Gus. “They certainly kept the ball alive, and it was amazing to see them get a decisive 56 to nil win against Central Coast, straight off the bat.” In the final tally, the team had two wins, one draw and two losses. A special part of the event is the ‘Spirit of Rugby’ awards that are given out at the carnival.  “The awards are judged on the behaviour and attitude of the team, and their supporters, over weekend, rather than any results on the field,” explained Luke Mack, the Waratah’s Development and Programs Manager for Western NSW.“The G.R Paton Shield is awarded to the Under 11s squad who best demonstrate the values that underpin our game, values that we call, the Spirit of Rugby. The award is voted on by all teams in the Under 11s event and I was thrilled that along with Penrith, our Western Plains squad was voted by all 58 teams as the group who best demonstrated the Spirit of Rugby! "This is a fantastic achievement and an absolute credit to everyone involved!  It was the icing on the cake of a fantastic weekend. We couldn’t be prouder of them!”U11s players had the opportunity to meet members of the Wallabies When the Western Plains App asked Gus what he thought the main driver behind the Academy was, his answer was simply 'opportunity'. “There are some super talented kids in the Academy,” he said. “They come from towns where there are significant challenges in respect to being able to participate in junior rugby pathways. "We’re aiming to change that. We want to make sure all children have the chance to be linked to pathways, irrespective of obstacles like distance. The idea is to reinvigorate rugby in our small towns.” He added that there are plans afoot for NSW JRU to go into selected secondary schools across the district and offer vocational training to students. “We hope to provide opportunities and employment skills to students and also develop up-and-coming coaches and officials,” he finished. Luke says that the Academy wants to eventually field teams in older age groups going forward. “Once you are a member, you stay a member,” he explained. “What this means is that even if you go away to school, if your schedule permits, you are more than welcome to trial for our development squads. This could make the difference with numbers for those students who stay at home and attend secondary schools across the Western Plains.” There are two more events coming up for Academy members to take part in. “The Academy will be taking a side to the CRU U12 & U13 Country Champs in early September and three sides to the NSWRU State 7s Champs (U11 & U13),” explained Luke. “All Academy members, including those who are currently away at school, are invited to trial for our squads.  “We are looking for more girls to play in our U13 Rugby 7s girl’s side at the state champs during the school holidays. If there are any girls out there who interested in trialing for this team, even if they are not currently Academy members, we encourage them to get in touch.”  The rugby 7s trials will take place on August 13 at Warren.

BY COL HODGESClayton Gallagher rode 5 winners at the Warren TAB meeting on Tuesday with the Robb family being very much involved in the final leg of the momentous feat.For a major part of his apprenticeship Gallagher was apprenticed to Rodney Robb at Nyngan with Rodney’s son Brett Robb being the stable foreman.Brett Robb has since become a leading trainer at Dubbo and Clayton Gallagher who also moved to Dubbo is usually the first choice jockey for the stable.After riding winners for David Smith (I Like Big Putts, $6.50), Michael Mulholland (Jet Empress, $3 to $1.95 favourite), Garry Lunn (Raiding, $6.50 to $4.60 favourite) and Luke Pepper ((Powderfinger, $3.70), Clayton Gallagher had the chance to ride 5 winners at a meeting for the first time when mounting Hardly The End for the 1000 metres Benchmark 58 Handicap.The Brett Robb trained Hardly The End was resuming from a spell while the top weight in the 12 horse field was the Rodney Robb trained Hurn Court, winner of the last two starts at Walgett and Nyngan.Luckyimwithaimee and Laffing Waters led at the top of the straight with Hardly The End then getting a rails run while Hurn Court (Michael Heagney) was finishing well on the outside.Heagney and Gallagher are very strong jockeys and their mounts responded to fight out a tremendous finish with Hardly The End ($4.60 favourite) prevailing by a half head over Hurn Court ($14) which had an extra 3 kg handicap to carry, while Mamelon (Andrew Banks, $9) was almost two lengths away in third place.Overall, Clayton Gallagher had 6 rides at the meeting for 5 wins and a fifth pacing on Wandering Jack ($2.50 favourite) which had every chance in the 1200 metres Maiden Handicap won by the Clint Lundholm, Dubbo trained Skyforger..Hemmed on the fence turning for home, Skyforger ($4.60) was eased around heels by talented apprentice Ronald Simpson and raced to a two lengths win over Bijara (Kody Nestor, $19) and The Percentage (Andrew Banks, $9.50).Ronald Simpson went close to a winning double when his mount Demeurer came with a strong run from the tail of the field in the 1400 metres Benchmark 58 Handicap to figure in a four way photo finish.Bursting through the pack from midfield, the Jane Clement, Armidale trained Hombre Grande (Chelsea Hillier, $9) won by a head from Demeurer ($6) with Aisle Six (Shayleigh Ingelse, $9) a half neck away third and the leader Ringside a close fourth.Next meeting (TAB) at Warren is on November 12 and features the QUBE Logistics Cotton Cup.

BY COL HODGESThey came 15 years apart, but Coonamble trainer Colin Edgar has now won the Carinda Cup twice, the most recent with grey mare Miss Ash Star, before a good crowd on Saturday at Carinda.The now-retired Greg Ryan was in the saddle when the Colin Edgar-trained Miss Watanabe defeated Norms Boy and Zakeya in the 2008 Carinda Cup; however, the in-form Orange-based apprentice Will Stanley was the rider of the 2023 Cup winner Miss Ash Star.Attempting to win the 1400 metres Dubbo City Toyota Carinda Cup for the second year in succession after winning the Binnaway and Walgett Cups, the Graeme Brooker, Coonabarabran trained Plectrum (Chelsea Ings, $3.50 equal favourite) led the Cup field with Miss Ash Star settling midfield on the inside.Will Stanley found a gap at the right time, and the well-supported Miss Ash Star ($8 to $5) hit the front and, in new track record time, held off the fast-finishing Lenroy (Ken Dunbar, $3.70) to score by a neck with Equilibrium (Paul Zerafa, $17) a handy third.James Hatch, who brought Lenroy from his stables near the Queensland border north of Bourke to finish runner-up in the Cup, had earlier won the 1400 metres Local Liquor Gateway Maiden Plate with In Peace.Parked handy to the lead, In Peace (Ken Dunbar, $3.50) finished best to beat Better Than Pearls (Chelsea Ings, $3.50) and Dalante (Andrew Banks, $6).Making the most of the opportunity offered by Cobar trainer Wayne Prisk, 37-year-old apprentice Paul Zerafa from Kembla Grange rode a well-judged race when winning the 1700 metres Complete Asset Management Benchmark 50 Handicap on Berlotti in a new track record time.Raced by Butch Eves and the trainer Wayne Prisk, Borlotti ($5) from the back of the field finished strongly to win by almost four lengths from the leader Intense (Chelsea Ings, $5) and The Cave (Ronald Simpson, $4.40).Trainer Graeme Brooker and Chelsea Ings, who missed out in the Cup with Plectrum, had won the opening race, the 1000 metres Walgett Hunt Camp Fish Newsagency Maiden Handicap with Smart ‘N’ Ritzy.Straight to the lead, Smart ‘N’ Ritzy ($2.30 to $3.50) accelerated at the top of the straight and breezed home by five lengths from Cinders (Paul Zerafa, $10) and Oh No Devon (Ken Dunbar, $3).Backed from $2.70 to $1.80 favourite, Super Son missed a place, and a $2,000 bet found a new home in a bookies bag.Before riding successfully in Queensland for more than two years, Wendy Peel rode a winner at Carinda, and she was pleased to be back this year to win the Wayne “Bronco” Lunn-sponsored Benchmark 45 Handicap on Twyborn Affair for Coonamble trainer Cec Hodgson.A last-start Walgett winner, Twyborn Affair ($5), broke clear in the straight and won by two lengths from Inzaghi (Will Stanley, $7) and Geesheehan (Andrew Banks, $3 eq. Fav.).To the cheers of a happy group of owners from Condobolin, Tottenham and Trundle, the Rodney Robb, Nyngan-trained Sindagar won the 1400 metres O’Brien Brigalows Pastoral Company Class 1 Handicap.Well-ridden in the lead by Dubbo apprentice Jake Barrett, Sindagar ($3.80) was under siege in the straight but held off Royal Samer (Andrew Banks, $3 fav.) to score by three-quarters of a length with Hussniacki (Ken Dunbar, $3.80) filling third place.WRA action heads to Warren on Tuesday and Coonabarabran on Saturday before Central Districts racing takes over at Bathurst on Tuesday, July 25.For all Carinda results, click here.

The Australian Secondary Schools Rugby League 18 Years National Championships wrapped up at Kayo Stadium last week with the staging of the grand final, where NSW Combined Catholic Colleges (CCC) took out the Under 18 Championship Final against NSW Combined High Schools (CHS) with a 40-10 win.  Throughout the nine days of the carnival, teams featuring the best schoolboy players in the country battled it out for top honours. Amongst that group of elite junior footballers was Fletcher Hunt from Warren NSW, wearing the number 15 jersey for NSW CHS. “It’s a great honour to be selected for the NSW CHS team,” said mum Erin Hunt. “We’re very proud of all that Fletcher has achieved so far.”     The team played three games during the carnival, including the final, so Fletcher’s days were mostly filled with recovery, training, and yet more training. To Fletcher, a self-motivated and determined young man heading towards his dream of playing with the NRL, hard work means more opportunity. “The games we played were really fast, everything was very professional,” said Fletcher.  “As a team we gelled well, because we were all there with the same goal, to play the best footy that we could.”    Fletcher’s journey towards the upper echelons of rugby league is a tale of passion, determination, and self-discipline, as well as a reminder about the importance of having a great support team behind you.  His achievements to date seem even more remarkable, given that they have been made from his ‘home’ base in western NSW, with the support of his close-knit family and the local footy club.   Fletcher started his sporting career as a young boy, playing for the Warren Junior Bulldogs. As with most clubs, dad Danny was coach and president, and mum Erin was canteen manager, president, and even assistant coach of the U7s whilst dad was busy coaching Fletcher’s older brother. Danny took over the coaching duties when Fletcher reached the U8s, ultimately taking the team on to three premiership wins. Fletcher, showing his talent early on, was awarded ‘Player with Most Potential’. Amongst the mentors who have been there since those early days is Warren football identity Tony ‘Wooly’ Woolnough, whose own sons have enjoyed considerable success in the rugby league arena. “Wooly has always been there, giving good advice and encouraging me,” said Fletcher.   At the age of 13, he transferred across to the Nyngan Tigers JRLC and enjoyed a successful career there as a junior, including a couple of grand final wins. Mum Erin says that they are thankful to have found such a great, supportive club to be a part of. “The Nyngan footy community have been so welcoming and supporting of Fletcher and his brother and took them under their wings,” she said. At that club, Fletcher found many mentors, both coaches and players.  “Some of the guys who really made a difference to my game are Trevor ‘Red’ Waterhouse, Jacob Neil, and Dean ‘Knock’ Black. If Knock says I’ve had a good game, then I really know I did!” he laughed.    ABOVE: Erin Hunt and son Fletcher at his jersey presentation for the CHS team. “These guys were all so dedicated to making sure that kids have the opportunity to play footy,” said Erin, underscoring how important volunteers are in these small communities. “Brendan Smith was one who was so dedicated in ensuring that local kids all got to play footy."The Nyngan club were all so welcoming, nothing was too hard. What people need to realise is that without that degree of commitment, out here in the west, children wouldn’t get to play footy. "You can have all the talent in the world, but without someone to help you along the way, you won’t make it. Fletcher has been lucky enough to have had inspirational coaches and trainers like Lonse, Fisky, Griffo and Kenno.”   Fletcher also credits teammates who have been a source of encouragement and support to him, including Warren based rep players Braith Boyd, Harry Hammond, and Aiden Bermingham, as well as Will and Cooper Black from Nyngan. “They’ve all taught me heaps,” he said.    In addition to the school rugby league pathway, Fletcher had the opportunity to participate in a variety of Western NSW RL development programs, offered in the first instance by Dubbo & District Junior Rugby League.  “Playing with these development squads was great,” said Fletcher. “I really enjoyed the trips away to play footy as I had never done that before. Everyone knows what they’re doing, everyone knows their jobs on the field, and they listen to the coach!” Fletcher ultimately made it to the Western Rams, playing with their U18s side where coach Shane Rodney ‘tweaked’ his game, encouraging him to play a different position. “It ended up being very beneficial and suited my game more, giving me more freedom on the field.”   Whilst with the Western Rams and the Group XI representative side, Fletcher began to attract serious interest from a variety of NRL clubs.  As well as playing with the Nyngan Tigers U18s, he also plays for their first-grade side, starting from the bench. “The opportunity that coach James Tuitahi has given Fletcher to grow and develop by playing alongside these more experienced players has been so beneficial,” said Erin. It was whilst playing club footy that he was approached by an agent from Pacific Sports Management (PSM), one of Australia's leading Sports Management companies, ultimately inking a deal with them. “Interest in Fletcher progressed in Wollongong (at the NSW school championships), where offers started to be put on the table,” explained Erin. “This is where having a manager was invaluable in respect to navigating the offers coming his way.”   When asked what advice he could give young players in the western region who also aspire to great things, Fletcher had this to say.  “I have always been focused on footy, either training, recovering or playing,” he said.  “I’ve stayed 100% focused on my dream to be in the NRL and I’ve made choices not to risk that. I’m lucky I’ve got good mates who have respected that and have supported me.”   As Fletcher left the interview to go fishing with a mate, his other favourite pastime, Erin reaffirmed her strong view that talent alone is not enough. “A couple of years ago, Fletcher realised that he needed to step up a level with eating well, being disciplined about fitness and exercise and understanding that being gifted is not enough. "You need to be resilient and self-motivated. Most of his teammates from NSW CHS are already signed to clubs and being city based, have had a lot more development and opportunities than Fletcher has had.    “That’s one reason we are so grateful to our local club, Nyngan, for stepping up and providing so much support. From the large numbers (of players) participating at club level, the competition gets whittled down and becomes more intense as you go along. "Even making it to this stage, Fletcher knows that only a few will make it to the NRL. There are players who are originally from Warren that have made an initial signing with an NRL club, but due to injury or other factors, never made it onto an NRL side. Fletcher hopes that he will be the one to change that and he knows that he still has a long, hard road ahead of him.”   Another obstacle that players and their families in the west must overcome is the tyranny of distance. Whether it be driving a 160km round trip several times a week for training or taking a week off work to travel interstate to attend an elite sporting event, a considerable investment of both time and money is required.  Fletcher has been fortunate to receive support from the Neil family of Nyngan, who have a history of assisting players from remote areas to achieve their sporting dreams. “I’m really grateful for their support,” he said. “It means a lot to me.”   Fletcher has now accepted a three-year deal from the Newcastle Knights which means a move away to the coast at the end of 2023. “I’ll be trialing for a spot on the Knight’s SG Ball side,” he said, the next goal already in sight as he continues chasing after the ultimate prize of playing with the NRL.  

"It's the biggest carnival we’ve had at Quambone by a country mile!" says Polocrosse Club President Simon Turnbull.A small town of horse floats, long-neck trailers, trucks and tents had sprung up around the Quambone Sports Ground for the two-day carnival on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 July.Five fields were marked out and thirty eight teams - or 226 people - were registered to play.They brought their horses, parents, children, grandchildren, grandparents, friends and supporters with them.  This year the National Junior Challenge being held at Narrabri the following weekend (8 & 9 July) helped draw contenders with extra juniors coming all the way from Western Australia.One mum drove her three boys from W.A. And there were also a family from Victoria and players from Tasmania & New Zealand."They were all blown away by how friendly everyone is - and how flat our country is," Mr Turnbull said."Quambone's following has grown from an atmosphere of grass-roots family fun with many teams made up of parent-offspring combinations. "We play a Ringers Run Novelty Race and have served up a star, home-made three course meal over many years and have seen the numbers increase every year," he said.Inverell fielded a team for the first time at Quambone, encouraged by former local Jerome Hayden who now plays for them.Mr Turnbull says other players travel annually from Lake George near Canberra, Burradoo/Bowral, Maitland, Quirindi and many places in between.Players left little on the field and there were a few bumps and bruises as the chukkas mounted.ABOVE: Competitors were treated to a hot meal after their games.OpensQuirindi 1 beat Inverell 1 in the A Grade Final with Hayden Turnbull named Player of the Match.In the B Grade, the Mendooran 1 team (which featured Erica Stewart, granddaughter of Colin and Cherie Wilson of Girrahween, Coonamble) beat the Western Wanderers which included some top shelf players from W.A. And other states. Player of the Match was Matt Stevenson.In C Grade, Galloping Gully 2 out-played Mendooran 2 with Campbell Williams named Player of the Match.Cassilis 2 and Galloping Gully 3 fought it out in the D Grade final with Cassilis taking the prize and Emma Campbell the Player's trophy.The E Grade final saw Mendooran 3 get over Gulgong 2 and Alex Miller was awarded Player of the Match.Mixed FinalsBunnan beat Quirindi in a hard-fought A Grade Mixed final with Skye Anderson named Player of the Match.Cassilis 1 fought off Gulgong 1 in the B Mixed Final, Jack Hamilton was top player.The Doos - Cubbaroo and Dunedoo - faced off in the C Mixed Final with Billy Brodigan awarded Player of the Match.ABOVE: Competition was tough over the two-day carnival in Quambone.JuniorsIn the A Juniors Quirindi disappointed W.A. In a tight match and Ruby Turnbull was awarded Best & Fairest.The Dream Team (of no fixed abode) beat Narrabri in the B Juniors with Korbyn Hamilton named Player of the Match.In the Sub-juniors (ages), Gulgong 7 conquered Gulgong 2 in the A Grade and Warren/Legends beat Narrabri/Wanderers in the B Grade.Consolation prizes were awarded to Burradoo and the Narrabri-Cassilis-Gulgong combination teamPlayer trophies.Champion Junior for the carnival was Erica Stewart of Dunedoo, who played in the B Grade competition.Champion Sub-junior was Amelia Amey.Champion Male Player was Hayden Turnbull and Felicity Elford won the Jacinta Mallon Memorial Trophy for Champion Lady Player.Local perpetual trophies were also awarded.Gareth Garnsey took home the D.W. Bucknell Memorial Cup for Best Horse & Adult Rider combination Quambone Club and Clare Hopkins was awarded the Richie Paine Trophy for Best Horse & U/21 Rider combination Quambone Club.ABOVE: An early view of the Quambone Sports Ground and playing fields. PHOTO: Simon TurnbullWith early campers, late leavers, players and supporters ducking into Quambone for takeaways, fuel, refreshments and supplies the event provided a significant injection to the community."Our Quambone club, while having its smallest number of players in many years has pulled off its biggest achievement," said Simon Turnbull."With thanks to many friends from other clubs who helped over the weekend and also to Coonamble council staff for their help in making our facilities so presentable." "Quambone is still on the map with a carnival with an international flavour," he said."From W.A. to Tasmania to New Zealand it will be talked about for many a day to come."

By Colin HodgesHumping 77.5kiloggrams when winning the 1250 metres Reddawn Duck Creek Picnic Cup at Nyngan on Saturday 1 July, the five year old gelding All Words broke all weight carrying records set over at least the last 40 years.Trained at Nyngan by Rodney Robb for Paul and Bindi Frampton and the trainer's wife Wendy Robb, All Words took on a good quality field and it was a most courageous win in a photo finish.Ridden by Breanna Bourke, All Words ($4.60) travelled fourth to the turn before overtaking the leader Planet Ex and then holding off the fast finishing Sons Of Bourke (Michael Gray, $4.20) by a narrow margin with Individualist (Sally Faulks, $7) less than a length away third.Breanna Bourke and Rodney Robb also combined to win the 900 metres Rob Ellison Memorial Open Trophy Handicap with Hurn Court, a last start Walgett winner.Mr Pointer and Thermosa set the pace before Hurn Court ($4.60) emerged on the scene and won by a length from Mr Pointer (Tamsin Gough, $5.50) and Sportsman(Ricky Blewitt, $8).The other leg of a treble for the popular Rodney Robb was Nannu ( Leandro Ribeiro, $2 to $1.75 favourite) which kicked clear on the home turn and lasted to beat Geesheehan (Grady Spokes, $11) and Bush Warrior (Sebastian Galea, $14).Coonabarabran trainer Wayne Martyn and Gilgandra jockey Zara Lewis also had a good day with a winning double, Cheerful Union (900 metres Inland Petroleum Maiden Plate) and Intense (1600 metres Fiveways Legal Class 1 Trophy Handicap.Cheerful Union ($3.80) led throughout for a five lengths win over Red Card Rosie (Sebastian Galea,$10) and Shalaa Magic (Leandro Ribeiro, $2.20 favourite) while Intense ($12) shared the lead with The Cave then took over to score by a length from the strong finishing Royal Samer (Grady Spokes, $4.40) and Borlotti (Tamsin Gough, $7).Making it two wins in succession, the Connie Greig, Dubbo trained Belle O’Ballee (Leandro Ribeiro, $1.70 fav.) took the lead at the top of the straight and raced to a two lengths win over Gunnerside (Grady Spokes, $5.50) and Luckyimwithaimee (Ricky Blewitt, $5) in the 900 metres Cobar Cranes Class 2 Trophy Handicap.The Duck Creek picnics, as has been the case for many years, attracted a very big crowd.

By Bryson LuffNo doubt the 100th anniversary celebrations by the Dunedoo Swans over the weekend were highly enjoyable for the very large number of people who attended the event, but the Gulgong Terriers put a bit of a dampener on proceedings when they downed the Swans 32 to 14 at the Swan’s Robertson Oval.At the same time that the Terriers were maintaining their unbeaten status and their number one position on the Christie and Hood Castlereagh League competition ladder the Gilgandra Panthers and the Cobar Roosters were putting on a thrilling encounter at Gilgandra, the match being a replay of last year’s epic grand final.Whilst the game may not have reached the classic heights of the 2022 premiership decider, it was none the less an exciting match up, but this time it was to be the Panthers who claimed a last gasp victory, and the highly prized competition points.The Roosters got away to an early lead, being up six points to nil after just three minutes but come the half time break the Panthers had crossed for four tries, including a double to their young front-rower Kyle Welsh, and the home side looked comfortable with a 22 to six lead.The resumption of play saw the visitors come roaring back into the game and they completely outscored the Panthers to the point where with just three minutes remaining in the match a field goal to their half back Lochlan Ford gave them a 29 to 28 lead and what seemed like a remarkable come from behind victory.The final twist to the frantic finish to the game came with mere seconds remaining on the clock with the Panthers receiving a penalty some 40 metres out.Under extreme pressure Gilgandra’s fullback, DJ Smith, calmly slotted the long-range kick, and much to the delight of the Panther supporters they had snatched a 30 to 29 win.In other games the Coonabarabran Unicorns got over the top of the Coonamble Bears to win 34 to 20 at Coonabarabran whilst at The Crater the Narromine Jets just snuck home by four points against the Binnaway Bombshells, winning a high scoring game 42 to 38.Turning to round 9 of the competition two games stand out, those being the Cobar versus Gulgong game at Cobar and Dunedoo hosting Gilgandra at Robertson Oval.At Cobar the undefeated Gulgong Terriers will face one of their toughest tasks to date when they match up against the Roosters who are currently placed second on the competition ladder.The reigning premiers will be smarting from their close loss to the Panthers last Saturday, and in front of their home crowd they will certainly be out to prove that they are still well and truly in the race for 2023 honours by being the first side to lower the Terriers colours this year.As with Cobar the Dunedoo Swans will be out to atone for their loss last weekend when they are again at home, this time to the Gilgandra Panthers.After a slow start to the year the Panthers have won their last three games, albeit that the last two victories over Baradine and Cobar have both been by a solitary point.In both those games the Gilgandra held down a handy lead over their opponents only to see that lead be whittled away during the second half and that will be something that will have to address if they are going to down the Swans on their home turf.The other games will see Coonamble at home to Baradine, with a win vital to both camps at this stage of the competition whilst Binnaway and Coonabarabran will clash in a local derby to be played at The Crater on Friday night, and whilst the temperature may well be a bit chilly there should be a great deal of heat generated on the field as these two arch rivals lock horns. Christie and Hood Castlereagh League Round 8 Scores League tagBinnaway 20 (Gemma Mitchell 3, Lisa Jones tries, Jones 2 goals) defeated Gulgong 10 (Chloe Patrick, Dayna Manly tries).Narromine 60 (Shian Chatfield 3, Beth Clarke 3, Jacana Powell 2, Emily Edwards, Rebecca Smythe tries, Shian Chatfield 7, Talitha Chatfield 2 goals) defeated Binnaway 0.Cobar 24 (Sarah Morley 3, Brianna Watson tries, Morley 2, Watson 2 goals) defeated Gilgandra 12 (Trista Raines, Sam Hazelton, Chloe McLean tries).Dunedoo 48 (Lauren Sullivan 4, Alexis Gallagher 2, Laura Shanahan 2, Georgia Price, Claire Bodiam tries, Hallie Hogden 3, Maddi Chapman goals) defeated Gulgong 16 (Amali Hollow 2, Laurissa Hay tries, Hay 2 goals). Competition LadderDunedoo 27 (Played 9, Won 9, Lost 0) Narromine 22 (P8, W7, L1) Coonamble 18 (P8, W5, L3)Cobar 18 (P8, W5, L3) Baradine 17 (P9, W4, L5)Gulgong 14 (P8, W3, L5) Binnaway 14 (P10, W2, L8) Gilgandra 9 (P9, W0, L9).  First GradeNarromine 42 (Darby Gordon 2, Harry McPherson 2, Mick Burns, Will Olney, Charlie Bonham, Zaiden Britt tries, Doug Potter 5 goals) defeated Binnaway 38 (Edward Kuras, Lauchie Sutherland, Elvy McEwen, Cody Whitty, Nash Walker, Stevie Milgate, Tallon Walker tries, Brad Fuller 5 goals).Coonabarabran 34 (Dean Lewin, Nick Willoughby, Tyson Farrell, Thomas Varty, Anthony Harris, Wade Frazer tries, Willoughby 5 goals) defeated Coonamble 20 (Tyrell Kennedy 2, Derek Robinson, Lewis Overall tries, Mitch Nalder 2 goals)Gilgandra 30 (Kyle Welsh 2, Rorey Milgate, Chris Fuller, Blake Frost tries, DJ Smith 5 goals) defeated Cobar 29 (Gerald Mackay 2, Jack Brown, Tyler Coughlan, Zane Taylor tries, Thomas Plater 4 goals, Lachlan Ford field goal).Gulgong 32 (Brad James 2, Tom James, Paddy Durant, Blake Gorrie, Jack Hart tries, James 4 goals) defeated Dunedoo 14 (Camden Sutton, Viliame Turava, Jack Piper tries, Dan Lane goal). Competition Ladder.Gulgong 24, Cobar 20, Narromine 20, Dunedoo 18, Gilgandra 18, Coonabarabran 14, Baradine 14, Coonamble 12, Binnaway 12. Round 10 Friday 7th July @ The Crater 6.30pmBinnaway V CoonabarabranSaturday 8th JulyCobar V Gulgong, Dunedoo V Gilgandra, Coonamble V Baradine, Narromine bye.

By BRYSON LUFFThe very sizeable crowd that packed out Narromine’s Cale Oval on Sunday for the Youth League Grand Final were treated to an absolute thrilling encounter between the Narromine Jets and the Binnaway Bombshells with the final result not decided until the last minute of the match.Going into the match the Binnaway Bombshells were at very long odds to get a positive outcome from the game, but their performance on the day certainly was not in tune with that pre-game sentiment.The opening exchanges saw the Bombshells dominate the game territorially but could not breach a determined Jets defence and as does often happen it was a breakout try to the Jets that opened the scoring in the 13th minute, with their winger Dane Burns going over out wide to score what was a converted try to make it 6 to nil.The game then returned to the pre try scenario, with the Bombshells dominating field position and eventually they breached the Narromine defence with a converted try in the final minute of the half to lack it up at 6 all at the break.Binnaway second rower Sonny-Bill Walker scored his second try for the Bombshells two minutes in to the second half and with the conversion successful the visitors lead 12 to 6. The Jets replied soon after when their half back Jamari Clarke stepped through the defence from close range to tie it all up and then just a few minutes later they went to the lead after centre Zac Hignett sliced through out wide to make it 18 to 12.With the two teams hammering each other a third try to Walker locked it up again at 18 all and then with just seven minutes remaining it appeared that perhaps a Bombshells victory was on the cards when their five-eight Blake Kuras crossed to have the Bombshells in front 22 to 18.The remaining minutes certainly had the crowd on their feet and as sweet as it was for the Jets supporters it was equally sour for the Bombshell faithful when Clarke speared over for his second try in the final minute of the match to lock it up at 22 all and then Harry McPherson slotted the goal from in front to secure Narromine a memorable 24 to 22 premiership victory!Whilst Narromine won the premiership Binnaway most certainly also covered themselves in glory after a gallant display that did their club very proud.The previous day round seven was played in the Castlereagh League which saw Cobar down Binnaway 42 to 18, Dunedoo defeat Coonamble 42 to 24 and at Narromine the same score was recorded when the Jets scored a victory over the Coonabarabran Unicorns.The remaining game was a thriller played out at Baradine between the Magpies and the Gilgandra Panthers.With ten minutes to go the visitors were in front 22 to 10 but as per usual the Magpies never say die attitude came to the fore and they scored two tries, one converted, to lock it up at 22 all with five minutes remaining.It was to be a Panther field goal in the final minute that saw them claim the highly valuable competition points with a 23 to 22 win.Turning to Round 8 there are a couple of standout games, the first being between the Dunedoo Swans who will be celebrating their 100 year anniversary and the unbeaten Gulgong Terriers at Dunedoo.This will be a real test for the Terriers in front of what will undoubtedly be a very big and unwelcoming Swans home crowd.The other big clash of the round will be played at Gilgandra when the Panthers host the Cobar Roosters in what will be a rematch of the epic grand final played between these two clubs on the same ground last year. Christie and Hood Castlereagh Rugby League Round 7 scores.Youth League Grand FinalNarromine 24 (Jamari Clarke 2, Darby Gordon, Dane Burns tries, Harry McPherson 4 goals) defeated Binnaway 22 (Sonny-Bill Walker 3, Blake Kuras tries Walker 2, Sam Pickette goals) played at Cale Oval, Narromine, Sunday 25th June.Best Performed; Jamari Clarke (Narromine half back), Sonny-Bill Walker (Binnaway second row).Christie and Hood Castlereagh League Youth League Player of the Year, Charlie Bonham (Narromine).League TagCobar 26 (Brianna Watson 2, Zoe Egan, Sarah Morley, Kayla Hassan tries, Egan goal) defeated Binnaway 4 (Jessee Newton try).Dunedoo 14 (Meg Christensen, Maddie Cox, Alexis Gallagher tries, Hallie Hogden goal) defeated Coonamble 12 (Tori Canham, Shakaye Walker tries, Canham 2 goals)Baradine 18 (Stephanie Bowling 2, Hayley Lomax tries, Holly Arndell 3 goals) defeated Gilgandra 12 (Rachel Drury, Rani Diggs, Laura Jordan tries, Annie Hoy goal).Competition table.Dunedoo 24 (Played 8, Won 8, Lost 0), Narromine 19 (P7, W6, L1), Coonamble 18 (P8, W5, L3), Baradine 17 (P9, W4, L5), Cobar 15 (P7, W4, L3), Gulgong 12 (P6, W3, L3), Binnaway 10 (P8, W1, L7), Gilgandra 8 (P8, W0, L8). First GradeNarromine 42 (Freddy Joji 3, Washie Itoya 2, Will Olney, Jacob Sutherland, Tyler Beer tries, Doug Potter 5 goals) defeated Coonabarabran 24 (Andrew Harris, Karl Calleija, Nick Willoughby, Anthony Harris, Thomas Varty tries, Willoughby 2 goals)Cobar 42 (Lachlan Ford 2, Tim Hillam 2, Benjamin Griffiths, Tadgh McMullen, Tyler Loughlan, Nathan McAndrew tries, Thomas Plater 5 goals) defeated Binnaway 18 (Donald Kuras, Travis Elwell, Elvey McEwen, Logan Meyers tries, Brad Fuller goal).Dunedoo 42 (Tyson Searle 2, Viliam Tianura, Brian Bradshaw, Ben Gallagher, Sam Christensen, Tom Yeo tries, Dan Lane 7 goals) defeated Coonamble 24 (Jake Fernando, Mitch Nalder, Lewis Overall, Jermaine Thurston tries, Nalder 4 goals)Gilgandra 23 (DJ Smith, Hayden Smith, Ken Johnson, Isaiah Gleadhill tries, DJ Smith 3 goals and field goal) defeated Baradine 22 (Thomas Martin, Billy Carey, Logan Dewson, Cameron Worrell tries, Jesse McElhinney 3 goals) Competition ladderGulgong 21, Cobar 19, Narromine 17, Dunedoo 17, Gilgandra 15, Baradine 11, Coonabarabran 11, Coonamble 11, Binnaway 11. Round 8 Saturday July 1Dunedoo V Gulgong, Gilgandra V Cobar, Coonabarabran V Coonamble, Binnaway V Narromine, Baradine bye.

Quality bush rugby and the announcement of a new Life Member were a couple of highlights of the inaugural Warren Rugby Club Old Boys’ Day last Saturday at Victoria Oval, Warren.   Representatives from the premiership winning teams throughout the club’s 69 year history were tasked with contacting former players for this first gathering of alumni, in what is planned to become an annual tradition.   With a large number of former players swapping memories in marquees on the sideline it was time to turn to the on-field action against Coonamble. The first game was Warren Pumarettes versus Coonamble womens’ team, a tight tussle that ended in Warren coming out the winners, 15-10. Next up was second grade Warren Pumas versus Coonamble Rams with plenty of young players from both sides eager to have a run. The final score was 21-12, featuring a come-back from the home side after being behind at half time.   The sun was still shining though the cold had started to creep in at 3pm when the first grade game got under way. This was an absorbing contest despite the one-sided score of 51-5 to the hosts; further cementing Warren Pumas’ position at the top of the Western Plains table and providing welcome entertainment for the visiting old boys.   At the conclusion of the game, club vice president Jack Kelly made a presentation to announce new Life Member Mal Smith.    “Mal played his first game for Warren in 1983 as a 15 year old. He continued playing in school holidays in 1984-85 before having a few years away from the district,” said Mr Kelly. “My old man recruited him off the street in 1995 when Warren was in a rebuild stage and he played all the way through till 2003 when he retired after winning a premiership, the first in 15 years for the club.”   Mal stood down from any official duties at the club for 14 years while raising a young family of five children, before returning in 2017 as a scrum consultant. Since then he has been involved in the club’s coaching line-up, helping get to four grand finals and winning one in 2018 as assistant coach.   “Mal is known for his no nonsense approach but also being able to laugh at player indiscretions. He is our current coach and has done so much to help not only myself but many others over the years. A great coach, mentor and friend,” said Mr Kelly.   Speaking after the presentation Mal Smith said it was a surprise and honour to receive the Life Membership. “I got a bit emotional when I realised Jack was talking about me,” he said. “It’s a fantastic club and I was very honoured to be acknowledged for something I really enjoy doing and find so rewarding.”   Mr Smith joins Barry Beach, Ian McKay, Tish McAlary, Milton Quigley, Greg Whiteley, John Azar and Michael McKay as Life Members.   Next year’s Old Boys’ Day will celebrate 70 years of Warren Rugby Club.  

By BRYSON LUFFSupporters of both the Narromine Jets and the Gilgandra Panthers filed out of Narromine’s Cale Oval questioning if there has ever been a more dramatic finish to a game of rugby league than the one that they had just witnessed.With just three minutes to go Gilgandra supporters when ecstatic when their winger George Alchin appeared to everyone to have touched down in the north corner on the eastern side of the field, finishing off a movement that started deep in Panther’s half to break what was a 16 all deadlock on the scoreboard at the time.Moments later they were looking at Narromine’s Brad Pickering slotting a penalty goal for the Jets at the other end of the field to give the home side an 18 to 16 win.On the report of a touch judge Alchin’s “try” was denied and a penalty was awarded to the Jet’s way back down the other end of the field where the Panther’s movement had started.The reason for the penalty being that when the Panther’s winger was touching down in the north-eastern corner of the field, a Gilgandra interchange player, in his exuberance and celebration at what he was witnessing, left the bench located on the western side of the field near the half way line, and crossed the nearby sideline, and whilst the interchange player was nowhere near the play or had any involvement in what happened on the field his crossing of the sideline meant that Gilgandra technically had 14 players on the field before the try was awarded. This was duly reported by the touch judge and the try was denied and the penalty given some 80 metres up the field. It is doubtful if ever a game has been won or lost in such circumstances but the result means that the Jets retain the Boronia Cup and their upward location on the competition table!.Other matchesMeanwhile at Baradine the Magpies registered their first win for the season when they claimed quite a sizeable scalp in the form of the Dunedoo Swans winning 22 to 10 much to the delight of their big band of faithful followers.At the same time the Cobar Roosters saw off the Coonabarabran Unicorns at Tom Knight Oval, the home side scoring seven tries to four in their 38 to 22 win and Gulgong continued their unbeaten run thus far in season 2023 with a comfortable 66 to 6 win over the Binnaway Bombshells.There will be a general bye in the competition this weekend before round 6 on the 17th June, when one of the highlights of the round will be the league tag clash between the two undefeated sides, the Dunedoo Swanettes and the Narromine Jets at Dunedoo who will be playing for the Jessica Skinner Challenge Cup. Christie and Hood Castlereagh League Round 5 scores.Youth League Cobar 42 (Reynold Mugugin 3, Kai Taylor 2, Jayden Paul 2, Toby Greenwood tries, Oisin McMullen 5 goals) defeated Binnaway 4 (Clayton Chatfield try). League Tag Narromine 56 (Lily Spackman 2, Shian Chatfield 2,Emily Edwards 2, Beth Clarke 2, Millah Phillips, Rebecca Smythe tries, Shian Chatfield 6, Talitha Chatfield 2 goals) defeated Gilgandra 8 (Wendy Brown, Chloe McLean tries) Dunedoo 18 (Alexis Gallagher 2, Lauren Sullivan, Hayley Berg tries, Georgia Price goal) defeated Baradine 0. Gulgong 16 (Tayissa Lucas, Kimberley Sharpe,, Laurissa Hay, Justine Brown tries) defeated Binnaway 0.Competition LadderNarromine 18 (played 6, Won 6, Lost 0), Dunedoo 18 (P 6, W 6, L O), Coonamble 14 (P 6, W 4, L 2), Cobar 12 ( P 6, W 3, L 3), Gulgong 12 (P 6, W 3, L 3), Baradine 11 (P 7, W 2, L 5), Gilgandra 6 (P 6, W 0, L 6) First Grade Narromine 18 (Washie Itoya, Mitch Rixon, Ryan Wheeler tries, Doug Potter 3 Brad Pickering goals) defeated Gilgandra 16 (George Alchin, James Pomfrett, Brandon Hammond tries, Brandon Hammond, Hayden Smith tries) Cobar 38 (Tyler Coughlan 2, Thomas Plater, Hamish McLeod, Siane Fakahia, Zane Taylor, Slade Neale tries, Plater 5 goals) defeated Coonabarabran 22 (Kari Calleija, Andrew Harris, Harry Reardon, Tyler Frazer tries, Dean Lewin 3 goals) Baradine 22 (Thomas Martin, Harry Allan, Brandon Worrell, Travis Houghton tries, Jesse McElhinney 3 goals) defeated Dunedoo 10 (Tyson Searle, Sam Christensen tries, Dan Lane goal) Gulgong 66 (Reece Fischer 2, Ethan Pegus, Tom James, Mitch McWhirter, Patrick Durrant, Sam Gorrie, Brad James, Blake Gorrie, Dan Crane, Duncan O’Leary, Rhys Beames tries, James 9 goals) defeated Binnaway 6 (Edward Kuras try and goal).Competition LadderGulgong 15, Narromine 13, Cobar 13, Dunedoo 11, Gilgandra 9, Coonabarabran 9, Coonamble 9, Binnaway 9, Baradine 8. Next weekend there will be a general bye.Round 6 to be played on 17 June.Dunedoo V Narromine (Jessica Skinner Cup Challenge in the League Tag)Binnaway V BaradineGilgandra V CoonambleCoonabarabran V GulgongCobar bye. 

A young pilot from Coonabarabran has taken out the inaugural Arthur Butler Trophy winning the Winging it Down the Castlereagh air rally on Saturday 20 May in his first-ever flying competition.Nineteen year old Max Phillips self-navigated the route along the Castlereagh River over Binnaway, Mendooran, Gilgandra, Gulargambone and Coonamble before returning to base at the Tooraweenah Aerodrome.His passenger was a university friend who had never travelled in a light plane before.Max flew his father's Fuji FA200-160 Aero Subaru aircraft, a low wing four seater plane. "It's airframe was built by Subaru in Japan," Max told the Coonamble Times. "It's an aerobatic plane so it's built tougher than the average but it's nothing special."He did his first flying lesson at the age of 11 and had passed his flying exam at age 13 before he started flying lessons.He completed his first solo after turning 15.A much younger Max in the cockpit of the uji FA200-160 Aero Subaru with his father Michael. PHOTO SUPPLIED."I always wanted to be an airline pilot until I did my pilot's licence," said Max. "Then I learnt about all the restrictions and paperwork."He is now two years into an Aerospace Engineering degree at the University of NSW."I'll take any job in the industry," he said. "I'd prefer to work on small aeroplanes but it's not the biggest industry in Australia so I'll just have to see what's out there."To win the coveted title Max beat off a dozen older pilots from around the state in a range of other light aircraft."There were a lot of ultralight types, a handful of Cessna 182s and there were Foxbats A22, five all up," said Max."The Foxbat is a very popular station-type aircraft that can be used for everything, from carrying cargo to flying slowly to check your troughs.""The biggest was a Beechcraft Bonanza," he said. "It's a six seat, very comfortable and fast 'doctor plane' - a lot of doctors use them to fly out to the regions."Spectators wait at Tooraweenah Airfield for the rally to beginFlight planning proHowever the air rally was not a race based on speed.Each entrant had to carefully calculate their expected flight time around the course, accounting for wind speed, altitude and the weight and capacity of their aircraft.As well as being judged on how close they came to their estimated time, the entrants were judged on the quality of their submitted flight plan.Max edged out Mr McKenzie in a Bonanza and Phillip Brown of The Oaks, near Camden in a Vans RV-9."The Van is a low wing, fairly new model," said Max. "It's a two seater, very sleek looking, fast aeroplane."The aeroplanes took off in a staggered start, based on cruising speed and ordered so the fastest plane left first and the slowest cruiser left last."That way there was never any chance of overtaking," said rally judge Mark Adams. "Safety was the by-word for the whole event - no one even stubbed their toe at the village fair."Part of the crowd viewing the Winging it Down the Castlereagh air rally and open day at Tooraweenah. PHOTO: Maddison PawleyThe volunteer committee provided five co-ordinators on the day with other society members assisting."The first aircraft took off at 12:01:32 and the last plane left at 12:20:29," Mr Adams said. "So it averaged out at about one every minute."The event flowed so well the last plane was back by 2:20pm," he said. "The fastest took 75minutes and the slowest took 129 minutes."Max exceeded his estimated flight time by two minutes and his nearest rival missed his estimate by just thirty seconds."It was the technicalities in their flight planning that split first and second," Mr Adams said."Max even calculated the fuel needed for take off, and the time and distance it would take to reach cruising altitude, which are things a commercial pilot would have to take into account."It was impressive how professional his flight plan was, it accounted for fuel usage and how important it is to have it loaded correctly so the aircraft is properly balanced and not overweight."A great day out at Tooraweenah AirfieldMr Adams says Winging it Down the Castlereagh was "a resounding success, due in no small way to the support and efforts of the Tooraweenah community."The pilots and their passengers were among an estimated crowd of around 400 people who enjoyed the village fair, shopping at a dozen or so local market stalls and watching the aeroplanes.Among the aircraft were the oldest registered Cessna 180 taildragger in Australia and a 1940s two-seater Taylor craft from Narromine.The event kicked off with a Welcome to Country conducted by Ralph Naden from Balladoran on behalf of the Gamilaroi Nation.It was officially opened by Member for Barwon Roy Butler, who also acted as starter for the rally.Member for Barwon Roy Butler enjoyed his official starter role.The local community were in full support.SES volunteers were on hand in case of disaster, the Tooraweenah Public School loaned a stage, a public address system, wheelie bins and chairs; the town hall supplied tables and the Show Society offered their ablution block."It wouldn't have happened without the support of ARTC (Australian Rail Track Corporation) Inland Rail as a our major sponsor," Mr Adams said."All the pilots thought it was a whizzer. Hopefully, they'll come back, stay in the local accommodation and explore the Warrumbungles from Tooraweenah.""I give the day a solid nine out of ten," said Max Phillips. "On the flight there was a way point every twenty to thirty miles so it didn't get too dull and it was nice to follow the river."Arthur Butler is credited with establishing some of the first regular passenger air services in regional Australia from his base at Tooraweenah.The Arthur Butler Aviation Museum and Airport Committee will continue to work hand-in-glove with the Coonabarabran Aero Club to run their event on alternate years to the Wings Over the Warrumbungles Air Show which is due to run again in 2024."We've got a lot of work to do with our Arthur Butler Museum," Mr Adams said. "We're looking for any memorabilia that can be donated or loaned.""The main thing is to obtain a grant for Gilgandra Shire Council to disassemble the original hangar, which is currently a storage shed at the shire depot, and return it to the Tooraweenah airfield."

Narromine will host the prestigious Australian Aerobatic and Freestyle Championships in early October, cementing the town’s reputation as a premier location for competition aerobatics. The president of the Australian Aerobatic Club (AAC), Peter Townsend, made the announcement on May 18 as the NSW Aerobatic Championships got underway at the Narromine Aerodrome.  Up to 30 competitors are expected to take to the skies in the national championships in early October, with aviators keen to contest the event after two years of disrupted competition.  “We’re hoping for a reasonably big turnout as the last two national championships were cancelled due to COVID and the weather,” Mr Townsend said.  “People are fairly well primed to come and have some fun!” Mr Townsend said that there were 17 entries competing in the NSW Aerobatic Championships in Narromine this week, which was a good turnout. “It’s really good to see. Normally we’re around the 10-15 mark, but I think people just want to get out and fly.” One of the reasons why Narromine was considered the perfect location for the nationals was its prime location mid-way between Victoria and Queensland, Mr Townsend said. Many competitors will come from those states, making travel easier. “Narromine’s right in the middle – perfect. These aircraft are very fuel-limited and you’ve got to do multiple stops to get here,” Mr Townsend said. ABOVE: Narromine Shire Mayor, Cr Craig Davies with competitor Steve Robinson and AAC president, Peter Townsend at Narromine Aerodrome on May 18. Other factors in Narromine’s favour to stage the event include the uncongested local airspace, great facilities and tremendous support from the local aviation community and council, said NSW AAC Chapter Secretary/Treasurer, Ray Pearson. “We don’t have to stop and start [around commercial] airlines. There’s good weather, and we have great support from the council, the Narromine Aero Club and Narromine Gliding Club,” said Mr Pearson. Mr Townsend echoed these sentiments, stressing that the local support was instrumental to making these large-scale competitions successful.  “The facilities here are amazing,” Mr Townsend said, acknowledging the particular support from council management, Beryl Hartley (gliding) and Stewart Hignett (aero) and their clubs in preparing for the state and national competitions. Narromine Shire Council will support the national championships through use of facilities and available hangarage and in other ways, said spokesperson Phil Johnston. ABOVE: Mayor Davies congratulates AAC president, Peter Townsend, at the announcement that the national aerobatic championships are coming to Narromine in October. “We’ve got good, well-maintained facilities and we’ll do what we can to support them. We have also been very proactive with the ‘fly neighbourly’ policy,” he said.  ‘Fly neighbourly’ is a voluntary aviation code of practice (and a council policy) that aims to reduce disturbance caused by aircraft in particular areas. The council manages use of the aerodrome for competition purposes through this policy, with all activity well planned and managed. The nationals will be held from October 4-8 but it is expected that competitors and their supporters will start arriving in Narromine from October 2 to practice ahead of the event, Mr Townsend said. Following straight on from the Dolly Festival and Mungery Picnic Races which will occur over the preceding long weekend, the national aerobatic championships will provide extra reasons for visitors to stay on and enjoy yet another spectacular aviation event in the Narromine shire.  

Golfers throughout the region teed up in Baradine recently for an annual competition held in remembrance of a former player.Players had a perfect, if windy, day at the Baradine Golf Club Russell Chilstone (Chilly) memorial trophy day held on Saturday, 22 May.The event was funded by the former NSW Government Reconnecting Regional NSW Community Events Program, with support from the Warrumbungle Shire Council. Club secretary, Paul Leonard said organisers were delighted with the roll up for the three-person Ambrose 18-hole event.“The course was in top condition and what a great day it was with the windy pines living up to its reputation,” said Mr Leonard. “A big thanks go to all the players and our club members for making this such an awesome event.“Congratulations go to the trophy winning team and a special thanks to the ladies for their work preparing food and serving beverages. We are all delighted that this competition has become well and truly established as an annual event.”The local team of Tony Arndell, Nic Dewson and Zac Buckley took out the memorial trophy with a score of 52.9. Second place went to last year’s winners, James Whillock, David Cruickshank and Jason Mills. Third place went to Bryce Daniels, Wyllie Waterford and Clint Weasley and the encouragement award, to the group that came last went, to Natalie Varty’s team.  Steve Masling won the men’s longest drive and nearest to the pin going to Tony Arndell on the fifth and Trent McGlashan on the fourteenth hole. Kylie Patterson was congratulated for winning both the ladies longest drive and nearest to the pin on the fourteenth.

THE embattled Marthaguy Picnic Race Club have taken another hit, with their 2023 meeting cancelled, despite what committee members say was their best track preparation in years.After their 2020 meeting was withdrawn due to COVID they re-gathered for a successful day in 2021, before being washed out in 2022.Three days prior to the races on Wednesday 3 May a stipendiary steward from Racing NSW had visited the race track to conduct a pre-race inspection and determined the track unsafe to race on due to cracking in the ground.On the previous Saturday (29 April), Quambone had received 20millimetres of rain forcing all track work to stop until that Wednesday."That washed out the dirt from the cracks that the stipend had discovered," said Life Member Marg Garnsey."The thing is, those cracks were there three weeks earlier when he gave us the thumbs up to race, and they were easy enough to fix.""We could've fixed it in time."Marthaguy Race Club Vice-president, Simon Turnbull was concerned that the decision to cancel was based on a lack of familiarity with local soils."I went and got a local very experienced farmer, Glen Jones, and he said to bar it, and that would have seen the soft fill go into the cracks, but the stipend did not have the confidence that this would achieve the desired effect," said Mr Turnbull."At the end of the day, all we wanted was two hours to prove the remedial works would be successful. "They wanted the track up to scratch by acceptances on Thursday morning.""If given the chance, we would have worked through the night to have the track ready for an inspection."Brian Charman, head of Racing NSW Country says that the decision to declare the track unsuitable was supported by the Chairman of Stewards, Racing NSW and Racing NSW Country."It was a terrible situation," he said. "The Quambone club are very hardworking and we are well aware of what these race meetings mean to these clubs and their communities."There are twenty eight meetings a year within the Picnic Racing section and we make sure every effort is made to allow them to race."In our opinion the track was not presented as suitable for racing and was not in a condition to be brought up to standard in time to race on the Saturday."It comes down to the fact that the rain developed some large cracks and holes in the ground that we weren't prepared to risk the safety of horses and riders," he said.President Doug Andrews firmly believed that the race day could have and should have gone ahead if the club had been given the opportunity to undertake remedial work."Clubs really need support to race and not be given reasons not to race," said Mr Andrews."We could definitely have raced, and the track would've been in good condition."Mr Charman says that Racing NSW Country are looking to run a replacement race meeting in the region to ensure prizemoney is distributed to participants.In the meantime, the members of Marthaguy Picnic Race Club held an alternate event and have advised they’ll now be working towards an event in 2024.

NYNGAN's Bogan Bulls have kicked off their Western Plains 2023 season with an unexpected 13-7 win against the Warren Pumas to win the annual Bomber Moxham/Barry Beach Cup.   It was a home game for the Bulls and a good crowd turned out to see the annual Nyngan-Warren tussle for the Cup named in honour of two rugby stalwarts – Bogan Bull, Bomber Moxham and Warren Puma, Barry Beach.   There was some doubt the Bulls would field a team for this year’s rugby union season, but the executive had worked hard over the past couple of months to pull a combination of new recruits and old hands together.   Bulls coach Bubba Perry was delighted with the first-round win against last year’s finalists but admitted it was a surprise.   ABOVE: Bulls stalwart Tom Cleaver with coach Bubba Perry “I went to bed Friday accepting that Warren might put a cricket score on us due to minimal preparation and a few players going up a couple of belt sizes over the off-season but once that whistle went everyone played with enthusiasm and passion so that in the wet conditions Warren found it hard to match,” he said.   It was a similar story across the rest of the Western Plains, with rain-affected games on the menu wherever you went. Reigning premiers Walgett went away to Cobar and got their season off to a flier, defeating them 29-22; Bourke dominated an undermanned Gulargambone 50-0 at home; and in the Womens the Bourke Ewes defeated Gular 20-5 and Walgett defeated Cobar 90-5.    The first round of the competition was dubbed "Mental Health" round. Western Plains Rugby Union partnered with the referees to raise awareness of mental health and inclusivity.  The Bogan Bulls kicked off the their first round by offering free entry for all to Larkin Oval. ABOVE: Bogan Bulls Captain Brett Moody with Angus Currans after the game 

Narromine rugby league stalwart and sporting great Robert (Bob) Weir, who passed away in March 2022 aged 85, has been posthumously honoured at a special ceremony at Cale Oval on April 29.Mr Weir’s decades-long involvement in local and representative rugby league, and his renown as the eminent builder of some of the district’s most iconic structures remain unsurpassed.It was highly fitting then that the official opening of the new million-dollar Bob Weir Grandstand was part of the prestigious International Legends of League event held at the oval.Members of Mr Weir’s family joined Narromine Shire Mayor, Cr Craig Davies, Member for the Dubbo Electorate, Dugald Saunders, and hundreds of community members at the event which saw the QUBE Agri Narromine Jets All-Stars take on the International Legends of League Alkane Resources Team on a thoroughly drenched Cale Oval.Despite the very wet weather, there were smiles all round as Mrs Judy Weir and Dugald Saunders unveiled a plaque honouring Mr Weir’s stellar career.Debuting in first grade with the Narromine Jets in 1955 at just 18, Mr Weir spent over 26 years as a player, captain-coach and non-playing coach.His representative playing career included Group 11, Western Division, NSW Country Firsts and NSW jerseys. His coaching career included Group 11, Western Division and NSW Country appointments, and he served as a NSW Country selector for nine years.The new Bob Weir Grandstand is a welcome addition to the Cale Oval Precinct.“It is great to see the Cale Oval Grandstand completed and appropriately named. The late Mr Bob Weir is considered one of Narromine’s greatest local sportsmen,” said Cr Davies.“He donned both NSW and country league jerseys, played in international clashes and won three premierships as the coach of Narromine Jets Rugby League Club.“It is to honour [Bob’s] memory that we are here to dedicate his name to this grandstand,” he said, welcoming Mr Weir’s extended family to the event. He also acknowledged the many rugby league legends who had travelled to Narromine to participate in the headlining exhibition match.Dugald Saunders said the International Legends of League event was a fantastic occasion for the Weir family to be present as the community formally recognised the contributions of the late Bob Weir.“Not just as a footy player but also as a community member,” Mr Saunders said.Mr Weir’s granddaughter, Fallon Attwater, spoke on behalf of Mrs Judy Weir and the family.Judy Weir, Fallon Attwater, Dugald Saunders and Mick Burns unveil the plaque honouring the late Bob Weir.“We as a family would like to express how much it means to have this building named in honour of our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Bob Weir.“It is an incredibly touching and heartfelt tribute, and we are very grateful beyond words,” Ms Attwater said.She described her grandfather as an exceptional person and said the grandstand would be a testament to his memory and the incredible impact he had on the local community.“This building will be a constant reminder of his contributions and a symbol of his legacy,” she said, thanking the Narromine Shire Council, Cr Davies, Mr Saunders, and the Narromine Jets, including club president Mick Burns.The new multipurpose grandstand and club facilities form an integral part of the Cale Oval Sporting Precinct, an open and unique space in the centre of Narromine which also includes netball and tennis courts.Narromine Shire Council secured a mix of state and federal funding totalling $1.38 million for the precinct upgrade, which will conclude with the complete refurbishment of the tennis club and courts.“Narromine has a strong and long association with all sports and is regarded as the 'Town of Champions',” said Cr Davies.Almost a dozen sporting high achievers are known to hail from the surrounding region and the Council is investigating how to appropriately acknowledge their achievements.

By Bryson LuffChristie and Hood Castlereagh LeagueIn what equates to a somewhat staggered start to the 2023 Christie and Hood Castlereagh League season a number of competition games were played in both the youth league and league tag competitions over the weekend, the majority of those being in Gilgandra on Sunday when six league tag games were contested.Cobar, Dunedoo and Narromine did enough at Gilgandra to suggest that they will be in the mix when it comes to semi final time, all three handing in strong performances, although Coonamble certainly gave the Dunedoo Swannettes a run for their money before going down in what was one of the tighter games witnessed on the dayABOVE: Baradine Player pushes through Dunnedoo's defence.Attention now turns to round one of the competition with some appetizing first grade games on offer.After spending 2022 in limbo the Coonabarabran Unicorns find themselves back on the paddock and at home to the Baradine Magpies in a local derby that should attract a huge crowd between these two archrivals.If past epic contests between the two near neighbours is anything to go this will be no place for the faint hearted and a fierce battle is anticipated.A little further south another local derby will be taking place when the Binnaway Bombshells will play host to the Dunedoo Swans in a match that will be a real test for both outfits, this being especially so for the home side who are making a comeback to first grade after several seasons.That fact alone should ensure that “The Crater” is extremely well populated with spectators who will be eager to get some sort of gauge on their respective team’s prospects for the 2023 season.In other games the Gulgong Bull Terriers will be keen to start their centenary year with a bold showing against the Narromine Jets whilst the visitors will be out to build on what was a very productive first year in the Castlereagh League competition in 2022 and a tight match could well be on the cards.Meanwhile the Coonamble Bears will be out to impress their home crowd when they entertain the 2022 premiers, the Cobar Roosters at Bear Park.Gilgandra will have the bye.ABOVE: Narromine Player uses her hips to slide through Binnaways defence.Christie and Hood Castlereagh League Scores Youth League games played at Narromine Saturday 29th AprilCobar 60 defeated Gilgandra 0Narromine 28 (Zac Hignett, Harry McPherson, Rory Miller Corn, Ashton Coleman, Charlie Bonham tries, McPherson 3 goals) defeated Binnaway 0League Tag games played at Gilgandra Sunday 30th April.Coonamble 16 (Rikkilee Nixon-Welsh, Imogen Pawley, Tori Canham tries, Canham 2 goals) defeated Gilgandra 8 (Trista Raines, Chloe McLean tries) Half time Coonamble 6/4Dunedoo 28 (Madeline Cox 2, Annie Christensen 2, Lauren Sullivan tries, Christensen 4 goals) defeated Baradine 0. Half time Dunedoo 16/0.Narromine 42 (Shian Chatfield 3, Shayana Naden 2, Jacana Powell, Kelsea Phillips tries, Shian Chatfield 6, Talitha Chatfield goals.) defeated Binnaway 0.Half time Narromine 24/0.Cobar 32 (Sarah Morley 3, Brianna Watson, Sophie Clarke, Georgia Boland tries, Watson 4 goals) defeated Gilgandra 0.Half time Cobar 16/0.Dunedoo 14 (Annie Christensen 2, Lauren Sullivan tries, Christensen goal) defeated Coonamble 8 (Rikkilea Nixon-Welsh, Emily Ryan tries)Half time Dunedoo 10/4.Cobar 28 (Bridgette Negfeldt 2, Sarah Morley 2, Brennah Aumua tries, Brianna Watson 4 goals) defeated Binnaway 0Half time Cobar 6/0.*Games Friday and Saturday 5th and 6th MayFriday: Gilgandra V Narromine in Youth league @ 6.30pmSaturday; Coonamble V Cobar, Gulgong V Narromine, Binnaway V Dunedoo (Binnaway V Cobar in Youth League at 12.00pm), Coonabarabran V Baradine (Gilgandra V Baradine in League Tag @ Coonabarabran 1.15pm)

Beautiful weather and a six-race program drew a large crowd to the Nyngan Race track for the annual Anzac Day races. Traditionally Nyngan’s “day” the races draws a mostly local crowd who enjoy the opportunity to get together after the morning Anzac Day services. On the track the Snow Robb trained Rylan’s Pick, owned by local pair Ken and Kerry Wright, won the 1400 metre Nyngan cup for a second successive year – this time by a massive five lengths. Race-caller Tim Moses drew the horse in the Calcutta at the Nyngan Golf Club the night before, and held onto him to claim the prize. ABOVE: Rylans Pick won the Nyngan Cup, feature race of the day. Pictured with NJC president Denis Thorpe, trainer Snow Robb, owner's representative Sandra Beetson and jockey Clayton Gallagher. Trainers Connie Greig and Bryan Dixon tied for the most wins on the day with two each, but after placings were taken into account, Connie took the honours. Former Nyngan apprentice jockey Clayton Gallagher was the most successful hoop.  There was also plenty of fashion action on the day. Samantha Portelli from clothing boutique, Ruby Maine in Dubbo judged the ladies and gentlemen sections, selecting Sophie Doughty from Nyngan as the “classic lady’ and Jen Webster, also from Nyngan as the contemporary lady. The best dressed gentleman was Nathan Sanders from Dubbo. Amanda Thorpe judged the teenager and children’s fashions, choosing Harrison Sanders from Dubbo as best dressed teen; Hayley Edwards from Nyngan as best dressed child; and Mackenna Sanders from Dubbo as best dressed tot. BELOW: Best dressed gentleman Nathan Sanders from Dubbo with judge and sponsor Samantha Portelli, Ruby Maine Dubbo  

By Bryson LuffThe Dunedoo Swanettes league tag side are the first holders of the Jessica Skinner Challenge Cup after they won the Christie and Hood Castlereagh League league tag knockout that was played at Coonamble last Saturday.The Swanettes, who have been one of the leading teams in recent years in the Castlereagh league tag competition, served notice that they will once again be right in the mix for premiership honours after they defeated Binnaway 14 to 4 in the preliminary round of the competition then downing Cobar 26 to nil in a semi final before turning it on in the second half of the final against Narromine.The Jets took an early six points to nil lead in the game and still lead six points to four at half-time, but the second stanza saw the Swanette’s speedsters gain the ascendency, racing in three unanswered tries to run out 20 points to six winners.In addition to winning the Castlereagh Knockout Shield they also took home with them the Jessica Skinner Challenge Cup.This is the first year that the Jessica Skinner Challenge Cup has been played for and it was decided that the winners of the 2023 league tag knockout be the first holders of the Cup.Jessica Skinner with the Dunedoo team who are not only the winners of the KO Shield but also the first holders of the Jessica Skinner Challenge Cup. PHOTO: Peter Sherwood PhotographyIronically the Swanette’s first defence of the Cup will be when they play Narromine at Dunedoo in round six of the competition.The Youth League round robin that was also played at Coonamble on Saturday saw the Narromine Jets take home the Shield after they were undefeated in all their games. League Tag ScoresPreliminary roundsNarromine 30 defeated Gilgandra 0, Coonamble and Baradine drew 10 all (Coonamble advanced due to being the first scorer), Dunedoo 14 defeated Binnaway 4, Cobar bye. Consolation rounds.Baradine 24 defeated Gilgandra 4, Cobar 12 defeated Binnaway 8Consolation finalCobar 8 defeated Baradine 4.Knockout semis.Narromine 6 defeated Coonamble 4, Dunedoo 26 defeated Cobar 0FinalDunedoo 20 defeated Narromine 4.