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Sail into the past with the seasoned tales of retired Navy Warrant Officer Arthur William Hoswell, whose stories span the dusty stretches of Cobar to the open seas with the Royal Australian Navy. As Arthur recounts his days as a General Service Seaman to his dynamic role in naval aviation, we're reminded that the ocean's depths hold more than just secrets—they're filled with the echoes of adventure and the hum of contra-rotating propellers. Uncover the legacy of naval operations as we navigate through Arthur's rise to a leading hand, his brush with the cutting-edge sonar tech of the time, and the diverse experiences that shaped his 20-year maritime career.
 
 The skies above and seas below brim with memories, from jovial encounters with jet fighters near Hawaiian coasts to the solemnity of the Vietnam War's naval operations. Arthur's vivid narrative brings to life the multiplicity of aircraft roles, the camaraderie found on carriers Sydney and Melbourne, and the unexpected moments of levity—even when faced with the gravitas of wartime missions. Experience firsthand the tension and triumphs of search and rescue operations and feel the weight of history in the recounting of the tragic Voyager incident, offering a window into the enduring impact of service on the human spirit.
 
 After the uniform is hung and the medals are polished, the journey of a veteran unfolds in new chapters. Arthur walks us through his post-service life, from the challenges of reintegration to the solace found in family and community. As Anzac Day approaches, we're called to honour not just the service rendered but the individual stories that comprise our nation's history. Venturing beyond the parades and poppies, we commit to preserving the narratives of veterans like Arthur—because their legacies steer the course of our collective memory, steering us toward a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made for peace and freedom.

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Ever wondered what it's like to lead a team to glory on the rugby field? Join me, Dean Franklin, as I huddle up with Jason Stuart and Andrew Corcoran, local sports mavens who bring their A-game to every discussion. Dive headfirst into the adrenaline-charged world of regional rugby as Andrew, the revered coach of the Central West men's open blue bulls team, regales us with tales from the sidelines and the heart of the scrum alongside Jason, the spirited president of the Borrowa Goldies.

We lace up our boots and sprint through the preparations and dedication required to kick off the rugby season. As the conversation unfolds across the muddy pitches of West Wyalong, the hallowed turf of local camaraderie comes to life. The narrative stretches beyond the field, capturing the essence of our tight-knit community through charity work, the meteoric ascent of the women's team, and the culture that transforms local athletes into rugby champions. Our guests don't hold back, tackling everything from player scouting to the joyous uproar when a newbie scores their first try.

Finally, we're painting a portrait of Boorowa that's as vibrant as the town itself, buzzing with anticipation for an action-packed weekend of markets, festivals, and the crack of the rugby ball against boot leather. Feel the pulse of our community as I share behind-the-scenes looks at the Travla Beer and Rugby Festival and anecdotes that spotlight the unsung heroes who breathe life into our local sports clubs. Strap in for a rollercoaster ride of laughter, shared triumphs, and the sportsmanship that unites us all, in a podcast episode that's as lively and engaging as the games we love.

@Thisisboorowa @boorowarugbyclub @travla_

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Embark on a fascinating exploration of the beekeeping universe with our special guest, Carl Shaw of Borrowa Bees. In our latest episode, witness Carl's remarkable transformation from tech guru to bee whisperer, and soak in the sweet wisdom he brings from his hive-minded lifestyle in Borrowa. We cover everything from the meticulous process of honey production to the awe-inspiring lifecycle of bees, weaving in personal anecdotes that underscore the dedication and wonder intrinsic to this age-old practice.

Delving into the heart of apiary innovation, we examine the Flow Hive's role in modern beekeeping, its impact on traditional methods, and the importance of bee health monitoring. Carl sheds light on the harmonious blend of community engagement and environmental stewardship fostered through local honey marketing. But it's not all sticky sweetness; we also discuss the formidable challenges beekeepers face, including the dreaded Varroa destructor mite and the ever-important biosecurity measures put in place to protect these pivotal pollinators.

As we wrap up, Carl leaves us with invaluable tips for aspiring bee enthusiasts and a rich understanding of the ethics and economics shaping the industry. We tease taste buds with a discussion on honey varieties, highlighting the delight in every distinct flavor. Join us for this enlightening journey, and discover the profound connection between the bees' tireless work and the bounty of nature they help sustain. Stay tuned for more community stories and local insights in future episodes from Boorowa's own buzzing backyard.

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On this episode we continue our journey on the Shamrock trail with a stop at the iconic Boorowa War Memorial. We then review the week in local sports

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Unlock the secrets to staging a sensational community event as Narelle Nixon from the Boorowa Show Society spills the beans on orchestrating the annual Boorowa Show, despite the curveballs thrown by the Showmen's Guild. Venture behind the scenes to learn how unexpected challenges are met with creativity, such as the introduction of new attractions like the Freestyle Kings, and the resilience shown in the face of beloved camel rides being cancelled. We'll also toast to the triumphant return of market stalls and be spellbound by the magic and reptile shows that captivated our audience, all the while emphasizing the community's crucial contribution to the show's success.
 
 Step into the showground's vibrant history and feel the pulse of tradition as we anticipate the buzz of the upcoming local dog show and the renaissance of harness classes thanks to the local carriage driving club. Listen to the tales of past agricultural exploits, from goat competitions to wine shows, and gear up for this year's flock-year competition. Amelia's dedication in bringing new portable yards for the sheepdog trials exemplifies the community's passion and commitment to maintaining and evolving these time-honoured festivities that bind us together.
 
 When the sun sets, the challenges don't rest, and we tackle the intricacies of hosting night events, from volunteer coordination to the nitty-gritty of liquor licensing and insurance. The conversation spotlights the symbiotic relationship with local businesses and the communal dreams of a rodeo that could further invigorate the local arena. Reflecting on the nuts and bolts of such endeavours, we share personal insights into the gratification and fervour of piecing together an event that is the heartbeat of our community, and especially for those taking on the task for the first time. Join us for this hearty blend of history, preparation, and celebration that is the essence of the Boorowa Show.

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Join me, Dean Franklin, as I unveil the tapestry of triumph and tribulation woven into the very walls of the JJ Cummins building, a testament to Boorowa's enduring spirit. You'll hear tales as sturdy as the bricks that built this architectural marvel—stories of John Joseph Cummins, a pillar of our town's history, and the calamities that have befallen this historic cornerstone. Then, we transition from the echoes of the past to the roars of the present, celebrating our local sports heroes. Feel your heart race as I recount the electrifying victories of the Touch Grand Finals, applauding our community's exceptional talent and spirit on the field.
 
 In the second half of our journey, I bring you the latest thrills from the Boorowa Lawn Bowls Pennants. Witness the pride as our Grade 5 team secures a hard-fought victory and experience the roller coaster of emotions as our Grade 7 teams face off in their respective challenges. Every roll of the bowl is a narrative, and I'm here to share it with you. Anticipation is high as we look forward to the next local derby—it's not just about the bowls, it's about the bonds formed on and off the green. Tune in, and let's send our collective cheers to the teams as they strategize and aim for victory in the upcoming matches.

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Embark with me, Dean Franklin, to the heart of Murringo, a place where history's echoes meet the vibrant pulse of today's creativity. I had the privilege of conversing with Therese Crow, an embodiment of passion for art and restoration, who, along with her husband Mark, has transformed the Murringo Barracks from a dormant relic into a cultural oasis. We discussed the careful dance of preserving the soul of this historic blue stone building while infusing it with new life, revealing how the challenges of renovation became triumphs of the human spirit. Therese's tale is not just about bricks and mortar, but about the community's heartbeat and the symphony of change.
 
 City lights fade into the tranquil night skies of Murringo as our journey takes us to an Airbnb that offers more than just a place to rest. This rural retreat, cradled by pastoral serenity, has become a canvas for creativity, hosting an art gallery that captures the imaginations of both artists like Lynn Angus and visitors alike. Our conversation twirled among the topics of the gallery's role in the community, the serendipitous moments that birth art, and the intricate weave of running such a space. The Barracks stand as a testament to the notion that art's power lies not only in the final stroke of the brush but in the shared experiences it cultivates.
 
 We wrapped our dialogue with musings on art's integral role in knitting the fabric of society, bridging generations and small-town tales. With the Boorowa Show on the horizon, it's clear that each painting, each sculpture, each crafted piece is a thread in the larger tapestry of Boorowa. It's here where stories are painted and paintings tell stories, and where every artist's journey — from the hesitant beginner to the seasoned professional — is revered. So join us as we celebrate the dedication of individuals like Therese and the enduring connections that art weaves within our lives. This is more than just an episode; it's a mural of memories, inspirations, and the collective story of Boorowa.
To learn more about Murringo Barracks and the amazing work that Therese and Mark are doing go to https://www.murringobarracks.com/ or check out their instagram https://www.instagram.com/murringobarracks?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

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On this episode I speak to Sorubi from the St John Kindness Garden. We chat about the garden, why it was established, the amazing people who make it what it is and what the plans are for the future

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In this week ssports wrap, I chat to Lucy Woods from the Touch Association about the upcomign finals, and get her hot tips, we also review the weekends cricket, as well as whats happening a the Gun Club

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Join forces with me, Dean Franklin, and the knowledgeable Anthony O'Reilly, Hilltops Council's general manager, as we tackle the pressing water woes of Borrowa. Prepare to be immersed in a world where clean water isn't a given—where aging pipes buckle under nature's extremes and boil water alerts become a community's reality. Together, we examine the multifaceted challenges of maintaining public health through vigilant infrastructure oversight and the innovative steps being taken to fortify the future against such environmental adversities.
 
 As we navigate the financial undercurrents of water services, Anthony sheds light on the intricate strategies fuelling the region's water security. We dissect the logic behind distinct water funds following local government amalgamations, scrutinize emergency reserves, and celebrate the role of substantial grants in shaping the water landscape. This is a candid glimpse into the critical decisions faced by councils, weighing the merits of new pipelines against upgrading treatment plants, all while considering the broader implications for regional development and community prosperity.
 
 Transparency is the bedrock of our discussion, and we delve into the importance of community engagement in times of crisis. Hear firsthand how Borrowa weathered the storm of a water treatment plant failure and discover the strenuous process of reinstating trust through rigorous water testing and transparent communication. We chart the course of infrastructure planning from conception to 'shovel ready' status, navigating the complexities of funding, design, and community expectations. This episode is an ode to progress, a testament to the resilience of Borrowa, and a tribute to the collective efforts to keep clear, safe water flowing for all.

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