Winners of the Fashion on the Field competition at the Condobolin Picnic Races Saturday were (L-R): Best Dressed Gentleman, Duke Jelbart (Forbes), Most Fashionable Filly, Georgie Lach (Sydney), Most Outstanding Hat, Kayla Doyle and Most Elegant Lady, Lauren Speer (both of Condobolin).

By Olivia McInnes

Fillies and colts of both four legs and two hit the tracks on Saturday for a great day out at the Annual Condobolin Picnic Races.

The weather was fine and sunny and thankfully not too hot for racegoers, with a gentle intermittent breeze providing some relief from the sun.

The ladies really put a lot of effort into their outfits this year, adorning the trackside with a diversity of brightly coloured and patterned outfits as well as softer shades with beige being a popular choice.

It was good to see the men looking sharp with many going as far as to ‘suit up’ for the occasion despite summer temperatures.

Fashions on the Field was hotly contested with over 25 entrants being picked to strut their stuff in front of the crowd.

Winner of Most Elegant Lady was Lauren Speer with a beautiful cream coloured classic dress and hat.

Georgie Lach of Sydney took out the Most Fashionable Filly with a more contemporary style beige knee length dress.

Most Outstanding Hat was awarded to Kayla Doyle who wore a stunning bright yellow and purple head piece.

Style Magazine’s fashion editor and Fashions on the Field judge Cherie Quade, said “I loved the fashions on Saturday. The contemporary outfit section was hotly contested and we could have had many more finalists in that category.

“It was great to see everyone going to so much effort to look so glamourous, from the head to toe. Despite some very sore feet at the end of the day, with some very serious high heels, the standard has been set by the Condobolin ladies and gentlemen for future picnic race meetings.

“A  big  congratulations to the committee for their wonderful work and for looking after the competitors and judges so well. It was just great to be a part of,” Cherie said.

The horses were also in peak form this year, with Shot Put coming back to take out the Condo Cup after his convincing win last year also.

Trained by Kevin White of Cowra, the seven year old gelding has had an impressive career, obtaining winnings of over $99, 000.

Spokesperson for the Condobolin Picnic Race Committee, Liz Mansfield said, “We had around 1000 people through the gates and the committee were very happy with how the day went.

“We had a lot of compliments from people throughout the day; jockeys, trainers, owners and patrons were all happy with how the meeting was run.

“The committee did a fabulous job having pulled it all together in just two months.

“We will be holding our AGM soon and are looking to build numbers and all are welcome to come and see what it’s all about,” Liz said.

Lovers of good Italian fare: Robyn McAneney. Cecilia Moar, Amy Strudwick, Lisa and Catalina Elias, Leonie Parker, Warren Chad, Anthony Strudwick, Anthony Johnson, Stella Buckland and Janelle Malouf.

By Karen Tooth

Romo’s opened its doors on Friday evening for Italian-themed Romo’s by Night.

As a result of their win in the Land’s NSW Best Butcher competition, Condobolin Quality Meats has donated more money to the Condobolin Picnic Race Club and is also increasing their donation to the Condobolin Rugby Club.

Condobolin Quality meats owner, Daryl Nairn said, “I just want to thank people for their great support during the competition by putting something back into the community through some of the clubs.”

World Day of Prayer will be held on Friday 2nd March at St Joseph’s Church at 7.30PM. This year the service has been prepared by the people of Malaysia with the theme “Let Justice Prevail”.

They invite us to enter into the mind, heart and soul of Malaysian Christians and through our imagination to be “Malaysian” for a short time and share in this act of worship.

We will gain a better insight into the lives of these people through our Guest Speaker, Sister Pat Lynch a Religious Sister of Mercy who did Mercy Ministry in refugee camps in Malaysia for several years.

Sister Pat is looking forward to catching up with old friends as many will remember her when she was Principal at St Joseph’s School during the 1980”s.

Men and women are welcome to attend this service and we look forward to seeing as many as possible in attendance.

Quota International of Condobolin Inc will be hosting a ‘Black and White’ High Tea to celebrate ‘Quota Cares Month’. On Saturday 10 March 2012 @ 2.30pm at Condobolin Community Centre for just $10 per person. All proceeds will go to local charities. For further enquiries call Ros L’Estrange 68952160 (w).

You will no doubt have heard on the TV about the launch of TAFE Western Connect classes for 2012.

In the coming weeks Condobolin will see the Mining Dump Truck Simulator make its way to Condobolin for an Information Day on 1st March at the WCC. The Truck Driving Simulator will also come to Condobolin  on the 12th March for Training. These Simulators are part of the TAFE Western Connect Mobile Learning Units. So come along and see what can be learnt and how our mobile units can assist students in regional and remote areas.

Watty, Foxy, Shane, Doohan, Shaun and Ian.

By Jessica Symonds

Before the thunder of hooves on Saturday afternoon, Condobolin heard the roar of bikes.

Sixty bikes motored into town on Friday evening, for the annual charity event on Saturday morning.

The riders, mostly from Sydney, come to town each year on the weekend of the Picnic Races and hold a charity fundraiser for a local charity.

Brave townsfolk paid a gold coin donation to have a ride around town on one of the bikes.

The money raised by the fundraiser is matched by the Condo Hotel.

This year, the Fairholme Bush Fire Brigade were the recipients of the funds.

‘Each time we come we take a different route,’ said ‘Foxy’, the spokesperson for the group.

‘It’s good to come out for the weekend, do our bit to help the community, see the countryside,’

The riders stayed in town for the weekend, and could be seen mixing with locals later in the day at the Picnic Races.

Compiled by Olivia McInnes

After around six years of ongoing debate and many different sites considered, the Lachlan Shire Council and Condobolin community have finally settled on a site for the illusive skatepark.

Bill Hurley Park on the corner of McDonnell and Molong Streets opposite the Condobolin Public School has been chosen as the preferred site for the construction of the Skatepark.

The decision was made at the last Council meeting following strong opposition to the former proposed site of Wellington Square, and the south side of the river near the Caravan Park.

Councillors felt that Bill Hurley Park and particularly the area between the water tower and former scout building offered an easily accessible location “between the bridges” that would suit most families.

At the same meeting Council also resolved to lease the former scout building to the Lachlan River Community Fellowship Group who has elected to complete the renovation of the building.

The Group will be conducting worship and fellowship in the scout building, involving members of the community and in particular, focusing on involving the youth of the area.

Councillors identified synergy between the two activities as a strong factor in the decisions.

A development application will now be prepared for the project which when complete, will be placed on public exhibition allowing all members of the community the opportunity for comment.

Winners of the 32nd Annual Don Brown Memorial Merino Ewe Competition (L-R): David McDonald, Graham McDonald and son James McDonald of “North Condobolin”

By Olivia McInnes

 Wool producers and industry representatives flocked to Condobolin last week for the 32nd Annual Don Brown Memorial Merino Ewe Competition and Field Days.

The event was again a huge success with seventeen entrants displaying the best of their flocks for discussion and judging.

134 participants spent last Monday and Tuesday travelling around the district to view flocks entered in the competition.

The Don Brown is a fantastic opportunity for growers to get together and discuss the wool industry, compare notes and learn about the latest improvements and technology in wool production.

Representative for Moses and Son and major sponsor of the competition Craig Davis said the attendance for the field days was high this year, and the sheep entered in the competition were of a very high standard.

“Recorded lambing percentages and body weights this year surpassed previous years by quite a margin.

“Cullings were down this year which represents an overall confidence in the future of the wool industry.

“The sheep looked fantastic and were a credit to all of the entrants,” he said.

Winner of the 2012 Don Brown Memorial Merino Ewe Competition was Graham and David McDonald of “North Condobolin”.

Judges were Drew Chapman of Hinesville and West Plains studs, Delegate NSW and Robert Harding of Glendonald, Nhill Victoria. Associate judge was Ben Simmons of “Koolyn”, Leadville via Dunedoo NSW.

Judges commented that the winning flock from “North Condobolin” was a good, even flock and were very fertile.

They were very impressed with the management strategies and the ewes were very well presented with excellent length of body.

Runners up in the competition were Harold, Barry, Jan, Phillip and Mark Crouch of Crouch Bros PTY LTD, “Milby”.

In third place was Ian and Jane Menzies of Moonbah Pastoral Co, “Moonbah”.

The Charinga Award for Productivity went to John and Coleen L’Estrange of “Inglewood”.

Koyuna Pastoral Co, “Koyuna” took home the John Coy Memorial and Charles Mills (Uardry) P/L Award for achievement.

The Ian Munro Memorial Perpetual Award for a Short Wool Flock was awarded to Stuckey Pastoral Co, “Corella” and the Allan Clarke Trophy for an off shears flock went to Kirk Brothers of “Pine Park”.

Coordinator of the Don Brown Carol Ann Malouf said, “This year’s event was extremely successful with 134 people attending the judging over two days.

“It was great to have both new and returning entries this year.

“There was also widespread interest in this year’s event from throughout the state, and there were a number of visitors from other towns.

“We are very grateful to the many businesses, including a number of local ones, who show their faith in the Merino industry of this district by their generous sponsorship.

“In particular we thank the major (Diamond) sponsors, National Australia Bank, Moses & Son, Lachlan Catchment Management Authority, Lachlan Shire Council, Elanco, Olsson’s Industries and Uardry Merino stud,” Carol Ann said.

By Olivia McInnes

The On the Road Program was established in 2011 with the aim of contributing to the development of a vibrant cultural sector in the Lachlan Shire by presenting quality performance and visual arts cultural programs.

The project focuses specifically on children, youth, seniors, people living with disability and Aboriginal communities.

On the Road develops and nurtures creativity in the short term by delivering immediate cultural enrichment; and in the longer term by initiating community based cultural awareness building and opportunity.

On the Road benefits participating communities by reducing boredom and isolation and increasing personal community confidence, well being and cohesion.

In 2011 The Q Theatre Company brought to Lake Cargelligo, Tottenham and Condobolin a theatre production called The Maids as part of the On the Road program.

The production was a huge success with tickets selling out to people of all ages eager to experience a live theatre production.

Due to the success of The Maids, the On the Road Program will continue for the next three years having recently attracted $120,000 funding from the Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation for cultural development and performances by the Penrith Performing and Visual Arts Inc. in the Lachlan Shire.

There will be workshops for the youth for drama and art focused lessons and development as well as representatives from Q Theatre Penrith working in schools to see what they would like to see brought to their town.

Mr Lewis Coe, Mrs Jessica White, Mrs Andrea Michell, Miss Rachael Tickle and Mr Malcolm Lavender.

By Jessica Symonds

This year St. Joseph’s Primary School has welcomed five new staff members to its ranks, in order to meet the demands of the growing student population of the school.

Compiled by Jessica Symonds

Western Plains Regional Development Inc (WPRD) is about to adopt a new constitution. Changes to Fair Trading Legislation for Incorporated Associations have meant that the old system of Model Rules is obsolete and Associations need to develop their own constitution.

“The development of a new constitution comes at a good time for WPRD”  said Anne Coffey Acting Executive Officer. “We are currently relooking at our Vision, Mission and Objects  to ensure they remain relevant and we can now look at applying for Tax Concession Charity Status.”

Western Plains has employed Terryll Cassidy to assist with the drafting of the new constitution and rework relevant policies and business and marketing plans. “Many funding organisations now require Tax Concession Status and business plans that reflect the objects of the organisation. WPRD need to have these things in place to ensure they can continue to apply for funding to service our communities.” Terryll said.

This is vital for WPRD as the organisation runs a number of community service projects. WPRD run the Centrelink  Agency for Condobolin, The Community Technology Centre (CTC), The Visitor Information Centre, 4 Youth Centres across the Lachlan Shire, Youth Holiday Programs and Activities and the Training as Parents Program to assist indigenous parents support their children through school. We support the Wiradjuri Artist Group and work very closely with many organisations including  the Schools, The Shire, Family Support and the Lachlan Arts Council and the Condobolin Aboriginal Lands Council.

“Western Plains is community owned and run. It provides services for the community to improve the quality of life for all. It is really important that we get the structures right to continue to  access funding to provide necessary services.” Chairman Dennis Brady said.

Junior Boys' Relay Team (L-R): Hamish O'Halloran, Darcy Leadbitter, Cooper Jones and Raphael Wald.

Contributed

St. Joseph’s swimmers represented the school at the Central Cluster swimming carnival in Forbes last Thursday.

The cluster carnival is between Condobolin, Forbes, Parkes and Trundle.

There were great achievements in the pool and a number of personal best times.

Seventeen students from the school will now compete at the Diocesan carnival in Condobolin on Monday 5th March.

The Diocesan carnival includes all the schools in the Wilcannia Forbes Diocese (eighteen schools).

Luke Reynolds, John Dwyer, Timbo Wheeler and Bonita Brady.

By Jessica Symonds

Last Wednesday, clients of Currajong Disability Services attended the Cowra Post School Annual Swimming Carnival.

Five swimmers from Currajong Disability Services’ Condobolin branch attended with great results.

The swimmers, John Dwyer, Bonita Brady, Timbo Wheeler, Tarna Lettice and Luke Reynolds, all achieved either a first, second or third place in at least one event.

The efforts of the swimmers, including that of those who came from the Currajong Disability Services main branch in Parkes, were rewarded by their winning of the overall trophy.

Condobolin resident Timbo Wheeler was the proud recipient of five awards at the carnival.

Timbo was awarded first in a timed activity and received three second place ribbons for freestyle races, as well as a medal for his efforts.

Participants in the carnival came from around the western region, including Bathurst, Cowra, Albury, Orange, Forbes and Condobolin/Parkes.

The swimmers had a great day, meeting the other people, and  enjoying the barbeque lunch the Cowra service had provided.

Back l-r: Hayden Sealey (Senior Sports Person), Tim McDonald (Para), Roger Haddrill (Masters), guest speaker Andrew Ryan, Anthony Jones (Team: JRL U16) , Toby Goodsell (Team JRL U16), guest speaker Kurt Barnes; front: Brayden Davis (Senior Sports Person), Lewis Goodsell (Team: JRL U16), Darcy Leadbitter (Encouragement Award) and Harry Crouch (Junior Sports Person).

By Karen Tooth

The Annual Lion’s Club Sports Awards night was held at the Condobolin Sports Club on Friday night to recognise and encourage Condo’s sporting champions.

Sports Promotion Committee Award winners were Olie Harding, Tamara Whitla, Danielle Thompson and Anthony Jones.

The Encouragement Award went to Darcy Leadbitter.

The Fitzpatrick Shield went to Tony Jones.

The Junior Sportsperson of the year was Harry Crouch.

Brayden David and Hayden Sealey both won the Senior sportsperson of the year award.

The Parra award went to Tim McDonald.

Winner of the Master award was Roger Haddrill.

Team of the year went to the under 16’s JRL team.

The Overall Winner was Maddi Sinderberry.

Guest speakers for the night were Canterbury Bulldogs player Andrew Ryan and professional golfer Kurt Barnes who offered some words of wisdom for the budding sports champions of Condobolin.

Andrew talked about the importance of the contribution of bush people to the sporting landscape across all sports in all forms including tuck shop volunteers, referees and linesmen.

He also talked about how being successful in sport is not necessarily all based on ability but also who you hang around with, how you approach training, diet, ability to be on time and so on.

Kurt had some encouraging words about how anyone can achieve if they have the will power and support as well as the importance of instilling a belief of success in kids from someone who they look up to e.g. parent or coach or some kind of mentor.

“Follow your dreams – even chase your dreams as they survive a long time and celebrate your achievements,” Kurt said.

Andrew Ryan and Kurt Barnes with monthly winner Pauline Dimos.

Fitzgerald Shield winner Tony Jones with speakers Andrew Ryan and Kurt Barnes.

Monthly winner Alicia Davis with presenters Andrew Ryan and Kurt Barnes.

Sports Person of the Year Maddie Sinderberry

By Karen Tooth

Enjoying  Business House Bowls at the Condobolin Sports Club on Thursday night: Tony Roberts, Grant Jolliffe, Brad Bell, Jeff Bolt, Greg Moncrieff and Alan Stuckey.

On the 16^th December 2011 Monique Cowled daughter of Graham and Kathy Cowled graduated from the University of Wollongong with a Bachelor of Health and Physical Education.

Monique is currently teaching PDHPE at St Anne’s Central School Temora. Monique completed her schooling at St Josephs Primary and Condobolin High School.

On the 6th of October 2011 Rodney Cowled, who formerly attended St Joseph’s Primary and Condobolin High School, graduated from the University of Technology, Sydney. 

Rodney was awarded a Bachelor of Science with dual majors in Information Systems and International Business.

During his studies Rodney was admitted to the Dean’s Honours List for academic achievement and was lucky enough to be selected to for a field study on management practices in Asia.

After completing an internship with National Australia Bank in 2009, Rodney continued to work as a business analyst with the NAB until the end of his
studies. Rodney has now set his sights upon the global financial market and has secured a role as a business consultant for the Bank of New York’s
subsidiary ConvergEx.