• Home
  • Articles
    • Front Page
    • General Interest
    • Snippets
    • Letters to the Editor
    • Council Comments
  • Special Interests
  • Our Community
    • Our People
    • Question of the Week
    • Jobs in the Central West
    • Be Seen
    • What’s On
    • What’s Hot
  • Features
    • Women in Business
    • Rural Round Up
    • My Place
    • Loving Local Living
    • Wellness Wise
    • Just a Short Drive
    • Real Estate
  • Sports
    • Bowls
    • Cricket
    • Equestrian
    • Footy Tips
    • Golf
    • Netball
    • Rugby League
    • Rugby Union
    • Soccer
    • Touch Football
  • Classifieds
  • Competitions
  • Contact Us
    • Contact Page
    • Advertise with us
    • Testimonials
    • Submit an Article
    • Subscribe to the Forbes Phoenix

Forbes Phoenix

Forbes DSC Awarded Two World Cup Legacy Grants

January 27, 2023 by Roxane Manley

The Forbes District Soccer Club (Forbes DSC) has been awarded two grants for Infrastructure and Participation by The Hon. Alisten Henskens SC MP. 

The first grant of $13,050 for Young Matildas Girls All Inclusive Programs of Excellence will develop female committee leadership, female referee training and certifications, female coaching courses, training programs, school holiday camp with W League players, and participation in pathways programs and events.

The second grant of $103,506 will facilitate Forbes DSC canteen facilities & storage infrastructure revitalisation. The grant will be supplement by an additional $100,000 from Forbes Shire Council and $3,500 from Forbes DSC. The total of $207,000 will be used for the commercial upgrade of the canteen, outfitting of the office, conversion of old changeroom into female compliant referee/changeroom, a five bay storage facility including $20,000 towards a new strength and conditioning gym.

This funding underpins our new advanced training program to be delivered on Tuesday and Thursday morning before school along with our nutrition breakfast menu for players identified to play Country NSW, NPL, Lachlan Utd & Western NSW FC in the future.

Many thanks to Phyllis Miller and Forbes Shire Council, Andrew Fearnley Football NSW, Daniel Ristic Football NSW, local school Principals and local MP Phil Donato for supporting our vision and applications for funding.

Good Field For Medal Comp

January 27, 2023 by Short Putt

Ralph Baker keenly watches his tee shot.

The weather for outdoor activity was once again inviting to all, be they cricketers, surfers or golfers. The Forbes golfers took every advantage of the comfortable conditions and acquitted themselves well.

The Saturday Men’s competition was the Monthly Medal, sponsored by Nutrien Ag Solutions, and contested by a field of enthusiastic 76 players who were keen to do well.

The A-Grade saw Kim Herbert with a ‘runaway’ win, scoring 64 nett. Kim was comfortably ahead of Harry Callaghan (66) who led a bevy of strong players. 

The B- Grade saw the closest contest. Ken Sanderson won on count back from Jake Hemming when both finished on 68 nett. 

The C-Grade mimicked the A-grade in scores. Brian Clarke, who is in tip top form, scored 64 nett, ousting visitor Tom Wood (W/W) who had 66 nett. They went stride for stride, but Brian had the handicap advantage.

The NTP’s went to: 9th – R Murray, 18th – J Mallon. The Pro Shop Super-pin, on the 3rd green, went to Reggie Murray with a shot to 2.25 metres. The ball sweep went to 72 nett on count back. Check in the Pro Shop if you think you earned one.

It was pleasing to see many club players back on the course after their long break, and it is also pleasing to see a number of visiting players.

On Saturday, 28th January, the comp is an Individual Stableford, sponsored by Rob Allen Livestock Transport. Forbes will host the CWDGA Pennants on Sun 5 Feb, for which the course will be closed until after midday. Some teams still need players, but all are welcome to come and watch.

Head Pro Adam is organising a Mizuno Equipment Day on 16th February. Contact him or the Pro Shop if you want to try them out.

By Short Putt

Upgrade To Judges Towers At The Parkes Racecourse

January 27, 2023 by Roxane Manley

NSW Nationals Candidate for Orange Tony Mileto, NSW Nationals Upper House MP Sam Farraway and Parkes Jockey Club Vice President Alex Proud at the announce-ment of $37,000 funding to upgrade the judges towers at the Parkes Racecourse.

Some fantastic, welcomed news for Parkes Jockey Club. NSW Nationals Upper House MP Sam Farraway today announced over $37,000 has been awarded to the Parkes Jockey Club to upgrade and maintain the Judges Towers at the Parkes Racecourse.

Mr Farraway said the funding, which was secured under the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund, would not only ensure the towers are up to safety standards but will also improve the race day experience for the community.

“The $37,460 awarded in this grant will ensure that the Parkes Jockey Club has the means to upgrade their facilities so that they are safe and modern.

“This funding will be a welcome boost for the club as they move forward after being impacted by the floods in November.”

Minister for Lands and Water Kevin Anderson said it was important that the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government continue to provide funding to support upgrades to show grounds and facilities in local towns.

“Crown reserves provide land for sport and recreation, homes for community organisations, open space for healthy lifestyles, and protect our environment including sensitive habitat for native plants and animals,” Mr Anderson said.

CWCU Monthly Sports Achiever

January 27, 2023 by Roxane Manley

Andy McMahon pictured holding the award that was presented to him by CWCU.

Central West Credit Union (CWCU) are pleased to announce the latest recipient of the (CWCU) Monthly Sports Achiever Award. A big congratulation goes to Andy McMahon, who is the award recipient for December, 2022

Andy is a 10-year-old Forbes Public School student who is an exceptional athlete, representing his school and community at many levels of competition. Some of his very impressive accomplishments include:

Forbes Public School Achievements

• Junior Boy Age Champion for athletics

• Lachlan District Athletics representative in 100m, 200m, senior boy relay, high jump and long jump

• Qualified as a member of the Western Cross-Country team

Forbes Little Athletics Club (FLAC) Achievements

• 10 Years Boy Age Champion

• Represented FLAC at the State Championships in 70m, 100m, long jump and high jump

Andy was also a member of the U/10 Magpies Junior Rugby League team that were Minor Premiers in the competition.

What a fantastic all round sports person and an asset for the local Forbes sporting community, we look forward to following your future sporting endeavors. Keep up the great work Andy, we are sure to be hearing more about you.

Parkes Bowling & Sports Club

December 23, 2022 by Roxane Manley

Pictured is the late Frank Gersback who recently passed, he was an extremely valuable member of the PB&SC and he will be forever remembered and sorely missed

THURSDAY

The festive sounds of Christmas parties, twist tops and can openings with BBQ sausage aromas was the background for 20 social Bowlers on Thursday.

Major Rob Irving teamed up with Ian Simpson against the Committee Executive of Col Miller and Marty Tighe. The scores were always in favour of Irving and Simmo, despite a late flurry of winners from Col and Marty. Rob and Simpson ended up winning the late finishing game 17 shots to 16.

The pairing of Mike Valentine and John Corcoran was a master-stroke, however Ray Jones and Col Hayward dominated the game, Ray and Col steadied and held on to win by 20 shots to 16.

Noel Johnstone and Pete McPhee played John Carr and visitor Josh Mills, but Noel and Pete were too consistent, winning 21 shots to 14.

Al Affleck and John Ward too strong for Maureen Baille and George Boatswain, winning by 15. 

Ron Nobes and Gary McPhee had a good game against George Bradley and 

Steve Ryan. Gary and his new protégé were too strong all game, winning by 18 shots to 10.

MIXED PAIRS

Liz Byrne to showcase her class as she partnered with Tony Riordan, in a closely fought mixed pairs match against Elaine Miller and Marty Tighe. The 18 end format of Mixed Pairs seemed to suit Elaine and Marty, bowling well and leading after the 13 th end, by 12 shots to 8. Tony and Liz then stepped up the pressure, with Liz claiming the shot bowls, winning the match by 16 shots to 12. 

On Sunday Mick and Joanne Simpson beat Wilbur Harris and Merrilyn Rodgers in a very one-sided match. Joanne played brilliant Lead Bowls and has finished her year of Bowls in very good form.

SATURDAY

Two games of social triples and three games of pairs were played on Saturday.

Joaane Simpson, Mike Valentine and Nathan Reynolds played Rob Irving, Bob Freeman and Dave Reilly, winning by 24 shots to 16. 

Gary McPhee, Graeme Dixon and John Carr played against George Bradley, Rob Tinker and Col Hayward. Team Hayward won 26 shots to 21.

Rhona Went and Geoff Freeman beat Tony Riordan and Tom Furey, winning 21 shots to 16.

Jim Blake and Darryl McKellar played against Bernie Mitchell and Guy Ellery. Team Ellery scored a win 27 shots to 14.

Col Woods and Mick Simpson played against Elaine Miller and John Ward winning 14 shots to 23.

VALE FRANK GERSBACH

The Club was sad to hear of the passing of Bowls legend in Parkes – Frank Gersbach, and extends it’s deepest sympathy to Joy and her family. 

The Club was proud to participate in the recently completed competition for the Frank Gersbach Cup, a competition initiated by the Parkes Railway Bowling Club to rightly recognise and honour the tireless efforts of Frank to Bowls at the Railway Club over many years, and in Parkes and District. 

RIP Frank – keen bowler, a true legend and always a gentleman.

 

Forbes Croquet Winners

December 23, 2022 by Roxane Manley

Encouragement awards won by Fay Picker, Lyall Strudwick, Carolyn Neilsen, Noel Jolliffe and Allan Jones.

 

Perpetual trophy winners Kevin Rubie and Neville Spry. Centre: John Browne with runner up trophy in Aussie croquet.

 

Perpetual trophy winners Robin Pols and Elvy Quirk with runner up winners Colleen Liebich and Cheryl Toohey.

 

Doreen Rogers joined Forbes Croquet Club in September 2004 and is the longest serving member. Doreen was given the opportunity to cut the cake.

Golfers Raring to Go

December 16, 2022 by Roxane Manley

The golf course is looking good and it seems that the only thing missing are the flagsticks.

After a concerted effort by the course staff we are excited to announce that golf will re-commence this week with the availability of the back-9 holes. The Forbes Vets will have first use on Thursday, 15th December with the Summer Sixes also restarting that day.

Saturday competitions will commence on 17th December and require playing the back-9 twice using a stroke play format. However, there is more than enough opportunity for social play and the Summer Sixes.

The Pro Shop will be open from this week onwards, with both Head Pro Adam and Assistant Pro Michael ensuring it is fully operational. Call the Pro Shop on 6851 1554 if you have any questions.

Having only a 9-hole layout means there will be a lot of pressure on the course. All players are reminded to repair any pitch marks on the greens, fill any divot holes on the fairway and remedy any holes made on the tees. This will help the course staff in their efforts to get the full course back as soon as possible.

Kickstart To 2023 Soccer Season

December 16, 2022 by Roxane Manley

Up and coming Goalies working on their skills at the recent Goalkeeper development course.

Lachlan United has been busy behind the scenes preparing for the 2023 soccer season.

Lachlan United Soccer Club was formed to encourage development pathways for rural kids to achieve placement in representative teams and increase the overall talent in the area. Players come from Forbes, Parkes, Cowra, Grenfell and surrounding areas. By bringing them all under the one banner, players will be able to make the most of courses and coaching opportunities not available in their hometowns.

The Forbes off season Goalkeeper development course held in November, saw promising soccer stars Nick Zannes, Indiana Kennedy and Josie McKenzie being selected in the U/14 Boys and U/13 girls NSW Country Futsal teams to play at the National Championships to be held in Melbourne in 2023.

Players who have been selected to play with the Lachlan United Soccer Club have a lot to look forward to in 2023. Several carnivals and gala days are already locked into the calendar, bringing teams from across the state to compete in our local area.

Teams will also travel to Goulburn to start the season at the Merino Cup, followed by a Mini Girls Gala Day hosted by Parkes, involving all western associated teams.

The opportunity to again start hosting these events, will see more than just the local soccer community benefit. The hosting towns can expect more than 5,000 visitors to visit the region, a boost that can’t come soon enough.

With the prospect of hosting larger tournaments in the future, the club is hopeful funding will come through for improvements to facilities such as training gyms, enhancing grounds and upgrading change rooms.

Forbes Croquet News

December 16, 2022 by Pegging Out

A splendid day had by all playing Golf Croquet

It was another nice sunny day for Golf Croquet on Tuesday, 13th December.

Big winners on the day were Noel Jolliffe 10-3 and Iren Ford 9-4. Other big winners of the day were Bruce Field, Ray Martin and Allan Jones, Barry White and Ray Martin, May Jones, Iren Ford and Lyal Strudwick, Elvy Quirk and Mal Smith.

Close games on the day were played between: 

• John Farah and Sue Jolliffe with 7, defeated Alex Todd and Tony Thomson with 6.

• Lorraine Todd and John Job with 7, defeated Elvy Quirk and Sandy Hepburn with 6.

• John Job and Mal Smith with 7, defeated Alex Todd and Neville Spry with 6.

• John Browne and Merv Langfield with 7, defeated Elvy Quirk and Lyn Simmonds with 6.

• Allan Jones and Geoff Coles with 7, defeated Carolyn Neilsen and May Jones with 6.

• John Cole and Marie Spry with 7, defeated Lorraine Todd and Ray Martin with 6.

• Neville Spry and Mal Smith with 8, defeated Noel Jolliffe and Rex Toole with 5.

• John Browne and Carolyn Neilsen with 8, defeated Kevin Rubie and Geoff Coles with 5.

• Merv Langfield and John Cole with 8, deafeated Fay Picker and Marie Spry with 5.

• Kevin Rubie and John Cole 8, defeated Lorraine Todd and John Farah with 5.

• Sue Jolliffe and Fay Picker 8, defeated Sandy Hepburn and Bruce Field with 5.

• Kevin Rubie with 8, defeated Barry White with 5.

• Merv Langfield with 8, defeated Iren Ford and Lyn Simmonds with 5.

• Lyn Simmonds and Vince Roberts with 8, defeated Rex Toole and Alex Todd with 5.

• John Browne and Sherly Chamberlin with 8, defeated Noel and Sue Jolliffe with 5.

• Sandy Hepburn and Tony Thomson with 8, defeated Neville Spry and Fay Picker with 5.

By Pegging Out

Croquet News

December 9, 2022 by Pegging Out

A wonderful day was had by all 28 players who attended Aussie Croquet on Saturday, 3rd December. Everyone agreed it was a warm and pleasant morning.

On this occasion, five players won three games and they were John Browne, Elvy Quirk, John Farah, Lyn Simmonds and guess who? Robin Pols. A big congratulations to these players. 

Big winners for the day were 14-8 Sandy Hepburn and Tony Thomson, Robin Pols and Lyn Simmonds; 14-9 Lorraine Todd and Barry White, John Browne and Lyne Simmonds, John Browne and Robin Pols. Well done to these players.

The weather remained for another nice warm morning for Golf Croquet, with 29 players enjoying the day’s play.

On this occasion only two players managed three games, and they were May Jones and Sandy Hepburn.

Big winners for the day were: 11-2 Ray Burridge and Mal Smith and 10-3 Ray Burridge and Tony Thomson.

There were too many close games to mention them all. 

By Pegging Out

  • « Previous Page
  • 1
  • …
  • 47
  • 48
  • 49
  • 50
  • 51
  • …
  • 164
  • Next Page »

Click here to download the recent issue (202) of The Forbes & Parkes Phoenix (1.9MB PDF) – 14th August 2026

SEARCH THE PHOENIX

STAY CONNECTED

The Forbes Phoenix would like to thank you, our Facebook friends, for your continued support and readership!

Recent Articles

  • Disability Inclusion Matters In Central West NSW August 20, 2026
  • Mayoral Notes August 20, 2026
  • Snippets… August 20, 2026
  • Forbes Garden Club Report August 20, 2026
  • Protecting Our Environment And Agriculture August 20, 2026

Phoenix Office 7/113-127 Rankin Street, Forbes NSW 2871

Editor 0432 337 278
editor@forbesphoenix.com.au

Sales 0432 337 278
sales@forbesphoenix.com.au

View our Privacy Policy. View our Conflict Resolution Process. View our Ethics and Complaints Policy. Want to advertise with us? Information on our Community Promotions.

We are always looking for new articles of interest to the local community.

Please feel free to submit an article for possible inclusion in a future issue.

To submit an article, click here to use our online article submission form.

Subscribe

* indicates required

Copyright © 2026 · Magazine Pro Theme On Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

nsw government logo

The Forbes Phoenix's Digital Diversification of Free Regional Media project is proudly funded by the NSW Government Regional Media Fund