Sports Archives - Page 2 of 160

Happy 90th Birthday To Bill Scott From The Forbes Croquet Club

November 27, 2025 by Elvy Quirk

Forbes Croquet Club celebrated Bill Scott who will turn 90 years of age on Saturday 29 November. Best wishes were extended to Bill and a lovely cake was shared. Bill has been a member of the Forbes Croquet Club since February 2014 and has always enjoyed the game of croquet as well as the fellowship and friendship there. Congratulations Bill hope you have many more years of good health and happiness.

Our Christmas and holiday arrangements are posted on the board at the Club so please make sure you check these dates.

The sheets for the luncheon on 16 December have already been rolled out for you to put your names down if you are attending.

The luncheon will be held at the Forbes Inn, members are free but non members welcome at their own cost.

Also please note Forbes Croquet Club will go into recess over the Christmas period, the last day of play being 13 December and play will resume on Tuesday 13 January 2026.

A special thank you again to our members who continually arrive an hour early each morning of play to help set up.

By Elvy Quirk

Lachlan District U16s Are Undefeated Premiers

November 27, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Lachlan District U16s are 2025 Premiers.

Coached byTroy Gosper from Parkes, the team is made up of Parkes and Forbes predominantly with some Condobolin girls as well.

The Club was started three yearas ago with a rising number of girls within the area who wanted to play rugby league especially with the growth of the NRLW.

The women’s rugby league is a fast growing sport especially in our area, Club Secretary Stevie Jackson said “This year we had over 41 players registered to play just in our u12s development side, proving how strong the growth is.”

“The U16s team have played together for a long time, half of the team have made representative teams for Lisa Fiaola teams for Western Rams, as well as Forbes Ruby Coote who has been listed for Illawarra Steelers, and Forbes Sarah Price for the Canberra Raiders.

In the grand final the girls went up against a very determined Vipers team who both came out strong.

“Our girls scored a try within the first 10 mins and vipers were quick to reply by scoring. The rest of the first half was extremely intense. As the second half kicked off it was a back and forth game, but then with 10 mins to go our girls kicked it up another gear with Laila Hartwig scoring a try and our amazing kicker Katie Galvin converting.”

“The Vipers kicked off and straight into the hands of Ruby Coote who took off and scored a try, again we got the conversion.

It was this second gear that the girls found that led them to victory, and finishing the season undefeated.” said StevieThe Western Women’s comp kicks off in September each year. For anyone keen to follow the club, go to facebook page Lachlan District Woman’s Rugby League.

‘Medal Of Medallist’ Decided

November 20, 2025 by Short Putt

The blustery weekend did not dampen the participants in the Saturday Golf Comp as those eligible vied for the ‘Medal of Medallist’ honours.

The Men’s competition was an 18-Hole Stroke sponsored by Loomzy’s Fis-n-Fix.

The field of 57 were keen to enjoy the day of golf. The Medal of Medallist Trophy was contested by 25 of the 30 eligible players.

The blustery conditions did blow the scores around but a steady round by Sandy Patterson (68 nett) gave him the trophy, ahead of Cam McMillan and Niel Duncan.

In the Stroke competition there were some individual flashes of brilliance. The Div-1 was won by Tim West with a 64 nett, finishing well clear of runner-up Cam McMillan on 70 nett. Tim played the back-9 in 3-under. Both he and Cam finished with 2’s.

The Div-2 was won by Sandy Paeterson with his 68 nett. He had not played much through the winter and was quite fresh.

Runner-up was Brett Woonton with 71 nett.

He was a bit rough at first but settled well on the back-9.

The NTPs went to: 9th Ben Robinson; 18th Cam McMillan. The 3rd hole Super pinwent to Brett Slack-Smith with a shot to 95 cm, making for an easy ‘2’.This Saturday, 22 November, is a 4BBB Stableford Medley, vying for the Deacon Dwyer Trophy.

By Short Putt

Inaugural Parkes Athletic Games A Success

November 20, 2025 by Roxane Manley

The weight lifting competition was a crowd favourite. Dubbo Crossfit Tyler Edgcumbe.

As the athletes stood in the shed on Saturday morning at 7am, with a cool breeze at their backs, anticipation was high for the start of the inaugural Parkes Athletic (PA) Games. The briefing was quick but crucial, with the organisers outlining the day’s schedule, the requirements for each event and the scoring process. Over 80 athletes and 20 volunteers disperse to prepare for the first events. It was clear this event would be a mix of competition and camaraderie.

The five events for the day consist of stationary skiing, running, tyre flips, athletic movements, olympic style weightlifting, gymnastic movements and high aerobic output. The crowd of athletes and local supporters cheers’ echo as athletes in each event and category push themselves throughout the day to their limits, fuelled by adrenaline. By the time the last event finishes late in the day, the athletes have tested their physical capabilities, are thoroughly exhausted yet completely euphoric.

A huge congratulations to all the teams for their incredible performances and sportsmanship. Special shout-outs to the podium winners in each category—your hard work and dedication truly shone.

The PA Games were a fantastic showcase of talent, teamwork, and community spirit! PA would like to thank each of the key sponsors such as The Worklocker, Littles Power, Standen Building , Specialized plumbing and excavation, Yakka solutions, EM earthmoving, Laura Jelbart Photography and organisations such as Parkes Shire Council.

“We can’t wait to hold an even bigger and better event and look forward to seeing everyone again next year,” said Emma Montgommery of Parkes Athletic.

Running and giving it everything in the tank, from Logan Thorpe Fitness Condobolin is Logan Thorpe and Kelly Tyack.

Forbes Croquet Notes

November 13, 2025 by Elvy Quirk

On Saturday 8 November Aussie Croquet was played with 29 in attendance. It was quite a warm morning however all who played enjoyed the game.

There were some long, hard-fought games. Two games on the day were won by Geoff Coles, Rex Toole, Neville Spry, David West, Fay Picker, Peter West, Harley Stewart, Elvy Quirk and Kevin Rubie.

Golf Croquet was played on Tuesday 11 November with 38 members in attendance.

As it was Remembrance Day all members showed respect by observing a minute’s silence.

There were many close scores of 7/6 on the day, Congratulations to all the winners on the day.

We have a few on the not doing so well list and best wishes are extended to them and as well to President Elvy who had undergone surgery in Sydney and is back home again.

The summer season has commenced with a new start time of 9am with players arriving at 8.45am to get their names in the draw. Notices in relation to holidays and Christmas arrangements are on the board at the Club.

Stay Safe. Stay well.

By Elvy Quirk

Nissan Classic Weekend A Success

November 13, 2025 by Short Putt

Classic 2025 Scratch Winner Caleb Hanrahan receives his trophy from major sponsor Mick Spice (Forbes Nissan).

It was a busy weekend for golfers with the holding of the Annual Forbes Nissan Classic. The main event, on Sunday, was the Classic Stroke event, the field for which was 118 including men and women. The visitors, all 54, were drawn from 17 clubs.

The Men’s A-Grade Scratch event was won by Caleb Hanrahan (Fbs) with 69, finishing ahead of Shane Sallaway (Fbs) on 74. The Ladies Scratch was won by HeatherDavidson (88) from Ev Uphill (94) both from Forbes.

Other results were (Forbes unless otherwise stated):

• Ladies Handicap: Winner S Crosby (73 nett), Runner-up R Fuller (74 nett: Wentworth)

• Ladies Stableford: Wnr J Fletcher (34 pts), R/up C Duncan (33).

• Men A-Grade Handicap: Wnr D Bayley (70), R/up A Leete (71: Mudgee).

• Men B-Grade Scratch: Wnr S Paterson (85), R/up G Hooper (88).

• Men B-Grade Handicap: Wnr M Walton 72 nett, R/up J Hemming 76 nett.

• Men C-Grade Scratch: Wnr P O’Connell (96), R/Up A Carlisle (96).

• Men C-Grade Handicap: Wnr J Tuovinen 72 nett: Cabramatta, R/up J Banks 76.

• Veteran Scratch: Wnr P Kirwan 77 (Parkes).

• Junior Scratch: WnrL Iyer (119).On Saturday the ‘Forbes Advocate’ 4BBB Stableford was played, with 116 players.

The Mens Scratch Stableford was won by S Betland/D Bayley (43 pts) from runners- up P Dawson/T Callaghan (38 pts). The Mens Handicap Stableford was won by C Alley/R Smith (47 pts), from K Sanderson/Alf Davies on 46 pts.

The Ladies results were: Scratch Stableford B&C Duncan (24), H Davidson/J Hubbard (24). The Handicap Stableford A-M Gaffney (42 pts), A Simmons/M Starkey (42 pts).

This Saturday, 15 November, is an 18hole Stroke and the ‘Medal of Medallists’. And a Stableford Medley on Sundau 10 November.

By Short Putt

$35,000 Boost For Local Sport

November 6, 2025 by Roxane Manley

Brooke Plunkett (NPM) and Mayor Neil Westcott pictured with the Rising Star RecipientsSienna Eve Taylor, Joselyne Folau, Malia Morrison, (Front): Emanual Townsend, Harlen Corney.

Parkes Shire Council and Evolution Mining Northparkes Operations are pleased to announce the successful applicants from Round 2 of the 2025 Parkes Shire Sports Grants Program.

In this round, a total of $30,000 in funding has been distributed to seven local sportingorganisations, and $5,000 has been awarded to seven outstanding young athletes through the Rising Star Grant Program.

Mayor Neil Westcott congratulated the recipients and acknowledged the important role these programs play in supporting the growth of sport and recreation across the Parkes Shire.

“Our community has such a strong sporting spirit, and these grants help keep that alive by supporting participation, improving facilities, and helping young athletes reach their potential,” Mayor Neil Westcott said.

“We’re proud to continue working alongside Evolution Mining Northparkes Operations to deliver programs that strengthen our clubs, encourage healthy lifestyles, and invest in the next generation of local talent.”

Round 2 – 2025 Sporting Organisation Grant Recipients were Parkes & District Amateur Soccer Association Inc., Parkes & District Netball Association Inc., Parkes Australian Rules Football Club, Parkes District Cricket Association, Parkes Tennis Club and the Peak Hill Roosters Rugby League Football Club.

Round 2 – 2025 Rising Star Grant Recipients were Noah Jayet, Sienna Eve Taylor, Tori Bennett, Emanual Townsend, Joselyne Folau, Harlen Corney and Malia Morrison.

The Rising Star Grant Program is a joint initiative between Evolution Mining Northparkes Operations and Parkes Shire Council, providing financial support to individual athletes who demonstrate potential and commitment in their chosen field. Each recipient is also automatically entered into the Parkes Shire Australia Day Sports Awards, where one will receive the Ron Harrison OAM Rising Star Award.

The next round of the Parkes Shire Sports Grants Program will open up in early to mid2026. For more information, visit Council’s Grants Programs page on the Parkes Shire Council website.

Sports Grant Recipients – Brooke Plunkett (NPM), Mitch Cudden (Parkes and District Amateur Soccer Association Inc), Ella McColl and Sam Rivett (Parkes Tennis Club), Graeme Bayliss (Parkes District Cricket Association), Mayor Neil Westcott.

Kath Hutchison Now An Honorary Member Of Parkes Croquet Club

October 30, 2025 by Roxane Manley

One hundred and one year old Kath Hutchison has been deemed an Honorary Member of Parkes Croquet Club.

When Beth Thomas of the Parkes Croquet Club called around to present Kath with the news, she noted that Kath was keeping busy, having just made date rolls for the Holy Family street stall, and a plum pudding for a friend who was having a family reunion. Plus she was preparing lunch for her son, Michael, who was coming to visit.

Kath has been a member since Parkes Croquet began playing at Parkes Tennis Club just over 3 years ago. At 101 Kath still plays occasionally and the members all love to see her turn up. The thing she enjoys the most is the friendships. “All the people who play are lovely and welcoming,” Kath said.

Kath was very touched to receive her honorary membership certificate. She said she felt thrilled to bits. “It’s just lovely.”

Kath recounted that her 100th Birthday last year was a wonderful day, with a beautiful Croquet themed birthday cake and celebration.

“All the croquet members attended as well as my son, Michael and daughter, Sherree Rosser. At 101 it’s so good to still be able to enjoy sport, and it’s special to be able to play alongside my daughter, Sherree.”

Kath said her secret to her youthful longevity is to: “‘Keep active and involved. Get yourself out and work and don’t sit around whinging. When you keep busy you have no time to worry or whinge.

“I’ve never had time to think about getting old. My husband Keith and I always worked hard. We also brought up two lovely children and spent 30 enjoyable years of caravanning, including a few times around Australia. I’ve always kept busy and active and I have always enjoyed such a wonderful life.”

Simmons And Venables Are Winners

October 30, 2025 by Short Putt

The Annual ‘Callaghan Shield’, sponsored by Todd Callaghan Painting, was held on Saturday 25 October. The field of 65 welcomed the fantastic conditions and produced many scores to match in the 4BBB Stableford Aggregate format.

The winners were Ann Simmons and Colleen Venables with 78 points. Their score was the highest recorded for many years and included many 3-pointers. Runners up were the pair of Jeff House and Matt Walton who managed 77 points. Their score was helped by a couple of 4-pointers.

The Individual Comp was won by Matt Walton by count back from Colleen Venables after both had scored 40 points.

The ball sweep to 68 points, with seven pairs being successful The NTP’s were well contested and went to: 9th Ladies: S Grierson, Men: P Grayson; 18th Ladies: A Simmons, Men: D Bernardi.

The 3rd hole Super Pin went to Jenny Fletcher (265cm) getting inside three other players and stumping the ‘guns’ that followed.

This Saturday, 1 November is Monthly Medal with the Mixed Foursomes Championships on Sun 2 November. Please be advised that the course will be closed until the afternoon.

By Short Putt

Athletes From The Region To Compete At PA Games

October 30, 2025 by Roxane Manley

PA Games combine competition with community spirit.

The 2025 PA Games will take place on Saturday, 1 November, at Parkes Athletic, 2/36 Boyd Circuit, Parkes. Athletes will compete across a range of functional fitness workouts inspired by HYROX, Gymnastics , Olympic lifting, and Strongman. Expect to see everything from barbell lifts and gymnastics work on the rig to running, rowing, and classic partner challenges.

Parkes Athletic (PA) is a communitybased fitness facility in Parkes focused on helping people of all ages and abilities build strength, confidence, and a love for movement. They offer a range of programs including Functional fitness-style training, Olympic lifting, HYROX, group classes, kids and teens fitness, and recovery services — all in a welcoming, team-driven environment.

The PA Games began in 2023 as a friendly in-house competition for our members, designed to challenge athletes across a variety of fitness domains — strength, endurance, and teamwork.

Since its first year, the PA Games has grown significantly — more competitors, more sponsors, and a bigger spectator crowd each time. Everyone is welcome to attend. Whether you’re a fitness fan, family member, or just curious to see the action, we encourage the community to come along, cheer on the athletes, enjoy a coffee, and soak up the atmosphere. Entry is free for spectators.

The PA Games will run from 8am to 3pm.

Spectators can grab a coffee, hang out or jump into a recovery session.

Shout out to local businesses who have come on board again as sponsors as well as some new ones, helping make the day possible. The Coachman Hotel, Worklocker, Yakka Solutions, Parkes Supplements, Specialised Plumbing and excavation, Standen building and M/PACC.

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