In fact, the funds raised almost doubled the money raised in 2004 when 50 brave men donned a dress for charity. So hats off to Grant and Chezzi Denyer - or should that be boots off?

Overall, it was great to see a younger age demographic supporting rural Australia. As well, there were plenty of generous individuals and business owners who bid up strongly for an array of auction items. 

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Behind the scenes, take a moment to consider how the Goldfields chef and staff prepared 4000 canapés, almost 700 main meals and desserts in a timely manner to rave reviews.

Curiously, not one representative of Bathurst Regional Council (who only recently spruiked their rural sympathies by providing free water for primary producers) attended the ball. 

Maybe none of our councillors own a pair of boots!

COUNCILLOR Bobby Bourke has again come up with a novel but achievable record attempt to raise further funds for farmers with the idea to have 2000 cars on Mount Panorama at one time. 

I'm not too sure how the logistics will work, but I'm sure it will get Australia-wide publicity for Bathurst while raising a few dollars along the way.

I’M a bit amused to hear populist politicians saying the Federal Government should enter the market to regulate escalating feed prices. 

Clearly, none of these so-called free market pollies remember their year nine economics (or was it commerce?), which explained the theory behind demand and supply. A quick refresher for those in need: high demand and low supply places upward pressure on prices. Very basic. 

Yes, feed prices have risen, as is normal in a drought. But asking the Federal Government to intervene is outrageous. 

There is not much sympathy in a good season for lucerne growers who battle to make a dollar, but now they are getting belted for asking for more money in a drought. 

I heard, too, that rural feed merchants are competing with charities for feed - which is also placing pressure on prices.

HAVE we been given an indication of Cr Warren Aubin’s authority within Bathurst Regional Council?

Just over a month ago, Cr Aubin was complaining that council needed to repair all the blown lamplights throughout the CBD before the Winter Festival.

I had done the same thing a month prior - when, fortunately, some were repaired and replaced promptly.

Cr Aubin posed in front of the lamp standard on the corner of Russell and George streets. And you know what? It’s still out - as is the one on the corner of William and Russell streets, as well as others.

Maybe Cr Aubin needs a bigger stick!

THE generosity of Bathurstians who dug deep to support the Rural Aid fundraiser at Bathurst Goldfields.

BATHURST Regional Councillors not supporting the Black Tie and Boots Ball.