Parkes Phoenix Editor

Maggi Barnard has been with the Forbes Phoenix since 2021 and loves writing about her community.

Cracking Good Time At Calarie Hall

March 5, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

WHIP IT GOOD: Nathan ‘Whippy’ Griggs, the number 1 and fastest whip-cracker in the world putting on a show at Calarie Hall last week to a packed local crowd.

Last week whip-cracking royalty came to Calarie Hall when Nathan ‘Whippy’ Griggs came to town and put on a show as part of his tour.

Griggs is not only Australia’s number 1 whip cracking entertainer, he is a five time whip cracking Guinness world record holder! Four times for fastest records with both one and two hands, 697 cracks in a minute two whips, 359 cracks in a minute 1 whip and for the longest whip in the world cracking a whip over 100m long. When it comes to whips you will not find a more inspiring and passionate man. Nathan is a new breed of Australian whip cracker, and he’s taking the world by storm.

Located in Mataranka, Northern Territory, Nathan has invested a lot of his time into perfecting his whip cracking and whip making expertise. Now a professional entertainer and artisan whip maker, his whips are in demand from all over the world… as is his whip cracking entertainment.

The past eight years Nathan has spent touring Australia. Now traveling Australia with his partner Tess Rowley the founder of Fernie Swim. They are working together to expand what they both have to offer. Nathan and Tess have a passion for rural Australia and traveling.

Taking his show to hundreds of towns, entertaining thousands with his ever evolving whip cracking talent and distinc-tive style of Aussie humour.

“Calarie and Forbes has been one of my most packed shows,” said Griggs. “It’s great to get out here to these places.Can’t wait to come back and do it all again!”

With his growing fan base and social media stardom the name Nathan “Whippy” Griggs will be one to watch on the global circuit.

More information about touring dates can be obtained at www.nathangriggs.com.au

Misfits Coming Together Well In Back To Back Bid

March 5, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

REBOUND HOUND: Grant King dominates the paint with another rebound for Misfits in a dominant display by the defending champs as Mark Stirling watches on and Ben Mulley (9) runs back to defend.

Anyone who knows sport realises that a number of things have to go your way to successfully defend the mountain top and local top grade basketball side, Misfits, look set to do it again.

In a dominant display against new side Maybe Babies, Misfits lead by crafty number 7 Blair Thomas with 27 points won 82-20 at Forbes High School last week. With the competition only just beginning it is still early days and while Misfits have chemistry and history on their side there is enough talent in the Maybe Babies line up for a competitive tilt at the title.

Other solid performers for Misfits included Tom Bruning, Alex Boyd and Grant King who’s size and height under the basket proved a handful for Maybe Babies forwards Mark Stirling and Ben Mulley.

With the competition only a few rounds old, Misfits sit atop the leaderboard unbeaten with Flint Tropics, who even at this early stage look to be a real shout for the title and Misfits’ biggest threat.

Maybe Babies were gallant with strong efforts from Grant Hodge and Adam Maynard while Ben Mulley hustled all night in a beaten side. Despite the loss though, the signs are there this side will cause some problems especially with such a speedy back court of Matthew Corliss and Adam Molloy.

As for Misfits though it remains one week at a time as they attempt to climb the mountain for the second year in succession.

Misfits Shannon Crowley said that the new competition with six teams meant there were no “easy games”.

“Maybe Babies fought for every possession and hassled us all game,” he said.

“On any night the result could’ve been different but we are just glad we have picked up the W.”

By Dane Millerd

Forbes Hosts Pennants

March 5, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

Saturday was a 4BBB Par, sponsored by Highlands Design, with 71 players.

Five teams finished on +8, requiring a count back which saw the Phil Duke/Dave Mylecharane team win the chocolates.

Forbes hosted the CWDGA Pennants on Sunday with the Division 1 team upsetting Bathurst while Division 2 saw Uphill, Dukes and Herbert win. Division 3 match saw two wins while the Division 4 team played at Cowra against Bathurst with one player short.

The Finals series in the Summer Super info check the noticeboard for details.

On March 6 we have the Monthly Medal with the Stableford Medley on Sunday 7.

By Short Putt

Thump, Jump, Rhyme

February 26, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

Forbes North SaCC and Mitchell Conservatorium of Music have teamed up to bring music sessions to young children in Forbes.

“Children have the opportunity to use percussion instruments, sing rhymes and participate in movement to music,” said Maree Yapp of Forbes North SaCC.

“Sessions will be every week during school term on a Monday morning and will be lead by a musician from the Mitchell Conservatorium, Mrs Hannah Nixon and at an affordable price for families which we all know is a consideration especially post COVID.”

I am so excited to be working with Hannah to deliver early childhood music sessions” said Maree Yapp from Forbes North SaCC, “and to be able to meet in a group face to face feels awesome”.

New mums who had babies during 2020 may not have had the opportunity to take part in face to face new mums groups or playgroups due to the restrictions that became part of our lives last year. Hannah and Maree are hoping families will feel confident to come along and try Thump Jump Rhyme.

“COVID safe practices and a QR code will be in place,” Maree said.

“The feedback has been exceptional and we are hopeful of encouraging more people to come along and see for themselves what everyone is talking about.

“It is a great outing and a real chance to have fun, create and connect with old friends or new ones,” said Maree Yapp.

To book your spot call Forbes North SaCC on 6852 3008 or find us on Facebook at Forbes North Schools as Community Centres.

Our Bloke – John Scott

February 26, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

How long have you lived in or around Forbes and what do you like about living here? I’ve lived in Forbes for 21 years since 2000. It’s so peaceful here and the people are so welcoming and friendly. There’s also an ease of access with everything here in Forbes such as services. Originally from Ungarie.

What do you do for a living? Hobby farmer. Love getting out amongst it. I won’t retire til they put me in a box.

What makes you laugh the most? Plenty of things.

If money were no object, what would you do with your time? Agriculture. It is my passion and always been a huge part of my life even since I was a child. I love being amongst it.

Describe your dream holiday? Any break is a good break. Especially when you can go on a holiday

Best advice? Never give up.

If you could live in any time or place, where and when would that be? Here and now is fine by me though any other other time in history would have been interesting too.

If you could share a meal with any three people, past or present, who would they be? My daughter, Ken Rosewall and Ash Barty. I love tennis especially at Australian Open time during our summer and I love my daughter.

If you could have a superpower, what would it be? Cancel Daylight Savings.

What is your pet hate? Daylight Savings. Can’t stand it or see the need for it. Serves no benefit and only makes people tired in my view.

Aussie Croquet

February 26, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

At Aussie Croquet on Saturday, 20 February, 28 players enjoyed the beautiful conditions. The winners of three games were John Browne and Kevin Rubie. Big wins on the day included:
• 14 to 7 Kevin Rubie and John Browne
• 14 to 8 Ray Burridge and Tony Thomson, John Browne and Libby Smart.
• 14 to 9 John Allegri and Bill Scott, Barry White and Colleen Liebibich.

Close Games were:
• Neville Spry and John MacCullagh 14, John Cole and Jeff Liebich 13
• John Browne and John MacCullagh 14, John Farah and Geoff Coles 13
• Dorelle Scott and Robin Pols 14, Bill Scott and Lyn Simmonds 13
• Jeff Liebich and Geoff Coles 14, Neville Spry and Merv Langfield 13
• Harley Stewart and Kevin Rubie 14, Libby Smart and Neville Spry 13
• Marie Spry and Veva MacCullagh 14, Barry White and Jill Rubie 12
• Bob Murray and Veva MacCullagh 14, John Cole and Cherylin 12

See you all again next week, enjoy the con- ditions and until then over and out!

By Pegging Out

Governor Beazley’s Tour Of Forbes

February 26, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

Mens Shed Flag Ceremony: Shooters Party NSW MP Phil Donato, Governor Margaret Beazley and Forbes Men’s Shed President Norm Haley.

It may have been a whirlwind visit and the first to the region since COVID struck, but NSW Governor, Her Excellency, Margaret Beazley AC QC more than made up for it with numerous stopovers on her tour.

“Dennis and I are pleased to be back on the road and delighted to be in the Central West,” the Governor said.

“This is our first multi-day regional visit after a long pause because of COVID and we were interested to hear how the past months have impacted on the diverse economy of the region and the day to day lives of local people.”

In Forbes, the Governor and Mr Wilson met with members of the Men’s Shed to discuss the latest developments after successful grants applications enabled the group to expand. This was followed by an intimate and enjoyable Community Lunch in Wheogo Park put on by Isabel’s Place, a visit to the Platypus Gallery, and tour of the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre in what was a real highlight of the day. The Aussie Biscuit Factory rounded off the day for the Governor with a behind the scenes look at the organisation.

The Governor was accompanied by partner Dennis Wilson and Shooters Party State MP Phil Donato also attended. Governor Beazley also met other key community stakeholders as well as recipients from the recent Australia Day awards ceremony.

Mr. Wilson spoke fondly of the Central West having spent time during his youth in Dubbo, often playing sport against teams from Forbes.

“I have been fortunate enough to spend a good portion of my life in the Central West and I am always extremely impressed by the people and the hospitality every time I come here,” he said.

“Forbes is a wonderful, progressive and beautiful town and you should all be extremely proud,” said Mr. Wilson, echoing the words of Her Excellency.

“People out here are resilient, resourceful and incredible. Living in rural Australia isn’t easy but places like Forbes despite their remote location, are thriving and are a great advertisement for country living,” he said.

The Vice-Regal couple also visited Parkes and Condobolin during their quick tour chatting with local businesses, schools and finishing off with a day out at the Condobolin Picnic Races on Saturday, 20 February before returning to Government House in Sydney to resume normal duties on behalf of the state.

“We have had a tremendous time with fond memories and we can’t wait to return,” Her Excellency said.

Forbes Soccer Club Scores Big With Two Local Sporting Grants

February 26, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

Member for Orange, Phil Donato MP

Member for Orange, Phil Donato MP, on Monday, 22 February announced successful funding for the Forbes and District Soccer Club (the Club) under the Local Sporting Grant Program 2019/20.

A total of $13,300 in grants funding has been awarded to the Club for two projects, both of which Phil Donato MP deemed particularly worthy of support.

“The Club will be implementing a pathways program for the development of female players, for which they requested $2,000 and received full funding,” Mr Donato explained . “The larger grant of $11,300 was for a First Aid Injury Recovery Treatment Room, which will be an important as-set when it comes to the safety of players.

“The Club has shown great initiative and rather than building a new Treatment Room they are actually converting an unused storage space at the Botanical Gardens.”

“It was a pleasure to support this grant, which was submitted by the members of the Forbes Soccer Club,” said Mr Donato.

Club Secretary Doug McKenzie said that he was pleased to have received the funding, and was eager to see the project completed in the near future.

Applications Now Open For Y NSW Youth Parliament

February 26, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

APPLICATIONS OPEN: Former NSW Youth Parliament participant, Hamani Tanginoa.

Calling all future Bairds, Berejiklians, Wrans and Carrs! Applications are now open for the YMCA NSW (Y NSW) Youth Parliament: the state’s premier youth political empowerment program.

Aimed at young people in years 10, 11 and 12 or equivalent age, Y NSW Youth Parliament provides a platform for young people to have their voices heard through legislative debate and decision making.

The Y NSW is seeking representatives from all 93 NSW State Electorates to participate. Y NSW CEO Susannah Le Bron said it was exciting to be back following the program’s suspension in 2020 due to the pandemic.

“COVID-19 has brought the direct impact of political decisions on young people’s lives and futures sharply into focus,” Mrs Le Bron said. “There’s never been a more important time for young people to stand up and be heard, and the Y is incredibly proud as an organisation to bring these voices directly to the seat of power in NSW.”

Youth Parliament consists of an eight-day camp where participants are split in committees and develop policy positions ahead of a day of debate on the floor of NSW Parliament. Following the event, passed bills are formally presented to the NSW Government.

Since its beginning in 2002, approximately six pieces of Y NSW Youth Parliament youth legislation have been passed into NSW Law, including the recent Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme.

Former NSW Youth Parliament participant, Hamani Tanginoa, encouraged young people across the state to apply.

Applications are open now and will close March 12 at 5pm. Young people will be notified of the outcome of their application on March 22 ahead of an online introduction to the program on April 26 and finally, Residential Camp from July 3 to Saturday, 10 July.For more information, or to apply, visit: www.ymcansw.org.au/community-services/youth/youth-parliament/

Earl Takes Top Honours On Countback

February 26, 2021 by Maggi Barnard

Pete Cowhan teeing off on the weekend at Forbes Golf Club.

The Men’s comp on Saturday, 20 February was an Individual Stableford, sponsored by Forbes Bus Lines, with 76 players enjoying the great weather.

The Division 1 required a count back, with Dave Earl (41 points) with his slightly better back nine declared the winner over Pete Cowhan. The Division 2 saw Brett Slack-Smith take the honours with 40 points. Runner-up was David Tildsley with 37 points. The NTP’s went to: 9th – Jacob Bernardi, 18th – Warwick Judge. The 3rd Hole Pro Shop Super Pin this week went to Harry Callaghan who put his shot to 79 cm from the hole’

The CWDGA Pennants teams are not doing so well. They all palyed at Mudgee, where the Div 1 team lost to Wellington (5/0) and the Div 4 team lost to Cowra (3/2). Results for Div 2 and Div 3 have not been posted at the time of going to press. Forbes hosts the Pennants this weekend, on Sun-day, 28 February so the tees will be closed for social and Sixes play until midday.

This is the last week of the round-robin series in the Summer Sixes Competition.

The Finals begin in the week 1-7 March, culminating in the Grand Final on 28 March.

The Golf Programme Books for 2021 are available at the Pro Shop counter, so grab one. It contains a lot of good information.

Tomorrow Saturday, 27 February, there is a 4BBB Par, sponsored by Highlands Design, with a Stableford Medley on Sun-day, 28 February after the Pennants are finished.

Parkes Phoenix Editor

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