OCLife20240404

What terrific weather we enjoyed over the Easter weekend, but looking at the forecast ahead it may have been the last of it for the season.

We managed to make the weekend a productive one, getting stuck into a few much-needed household jobs, but still managed to fit in some enjoyable family time — and a lot of chocolate! My wife and I even managed to slip away from the family for a couple of hours and take in the stunning view and tasty wine up at Maquariedale Organic Wines. An enjoyable few days and it really was a bit of a rude shock having to get up and back to the office on Tuesday!

Tuesday’s rain was very welcome as my garden and lawn were getting noticeably dry, but with more coming ahead of this weekend it has caused a few headaches for the FOOD Week committee who were hoping for clear skies for the Night Markets on Friday. The threat of wet weather has forced them to once again relocate the markets from Robertson Park to the Naylor Pavilion at the Showgrounds. We’ve been informed that buses will be in operation from 5.15pm to 9pm on Friday, taking people from the Visitor Information Centre in Byng Street to the showground and back again. Parking is available at the showground, but given the amount of rain predicted it may probably be best to avoid it.

Until next week!

Live music, celebrity chefs and massive restoration works ahead as landmark pub is brought back to its former glory

Orange’s iconic Hotel Canobolas is undergoing a transformation as its new owners work to restore the threestorey art deco pub to its former glory.

Purchased in November 2021 by the Sukkar family in partnership with the Sydney-based hospitality group The Point for a record $25 million, the prominent CBD hotel has since seen a major overhaul of the ground floor bar and dining area.

But there is much more to come, says The Point Group CEO Brett Robinson.

“There’s definitely a big master plan that we’re working on to restore it to its former glory,” Mr Robinson said.

Further plans for the proposed redevelopment will be submitted to Orange City Council sometime in the next few months, he said, but basically, it entails a full refurbishment of the 1930s-era hotel.

“Look, it’s just a big refurbishment of the building and to bring it up to today’s standard and to restore all things that may have aged over time,” Mr Robinson said.

“But that’ll include everything from a facade redo, to redoing all the hotel rooms, to re-presenting all of the hospitality on the first floor and the ground floor, and generally

just improving the condition of the building back to what it should be.”

On the hospitality side of things, there have already been major changes. Ahead of Summer last year, Hotel Conobolas unveiled its renovated pizzeria with its bright, sunlit central courtyard.

And Easter Sunday saw the first launch of the hotel’s new imported Rotisol rotisserie.

“We’ve taken some great steps to redesign and restyle the ground floor. We’ve reopened the outdoor courtyard, the courtyard beer garden, which was quite dark and dreary… and we’re seeing a lot of customers flow in there and really enjoy that space over summer,” Mr Robinson said.

And this weekend, Hotel Canobolas will be launching the latest stage of the redevelopment, the newly renamed Summer Street Bar (formerly Chesterfields) and Summer Street Dining on the first floor of the hotel overlooking Summer Street and Robinson Park.

“They’re awesome rooms... It’s got some beautiful views over the park from up there and we’re launching them with Orange FOOD Week and presenting a couple of great events up there to kick things off,” Mr Robinson said.

“We’ve got a very, very accomplished chef called Joel Bickford coming up from Sydney to host a four-course dinner on April 13.

“Joel was the executive chef at Aria restaurant and he’s currently the culinary director of Shell House, a two-hat restaurant in the heart of the CBD in Sydney… so it’s a very exciting event, a very high-quality event for Orange.”

Joel Bickford will be showcasing local produce at another FOOD Week event at Hotel Canobolas this Saturday; Raw Fizz, pairing raw produce with local sparkling wines.

As the renovations progress, Mr Robinson said Orange can expect to see more food events like these in the future along with a greater focus on live music at the hotel. Earlier this year, legendary jazz musician James Morrison performed to 350 people in the Hotel Canobolas ballroom.

...”They’re awesome rooms... It’s got some beautiful views over the park from up there and we’re launching them with Orange FOOD Week and presenting a couple of great events up there to kick things off,” Mr Robinson said.

“We will be reopening the Summer Street Bar every Friday and Saturday night and putting some live entertainment up there moving into winter,” he said.

“But we’ll also be doing dinners, at least once a month or more often, with celebrity chefs from Sydney or around Australia.

“So we’re looking to bring a lot of great first-class talent to Orange and showcase them, whether it be great musicians like James Morrison, or whether they be great chefs like Joel Bickford. We really want to live it up and put as many special events and unique events on up there as we can.”

Lords Place outdoor furniture up for grabs

Want your own giant flower pot or outdoor dining deck? Orange City Council is calling for Expressions of Interest from local businesses interested in reusing furniture removed from the controversial Lords Place South upgrade.

The $1.6 million street beautification project was widely unpopular and in October 2023, Council resolved to remove the newly installed seating, shade structures and other furniture, restoring the 20 parking spaces that had been lost due to the changes.

Council is now looking for businesses that might want to make use of the removed items, which include: 10 concrete chairs, 17 concrete blocks, 12 pot plants, 6 shade structures, 4 round chairs, 8 chairs, and 6 dining decks

Orange Mayor Jason Hamling is looking forward to seeing how the furniture could be used by businesses around town.

“It is costly for businesses to buy this kind

of furniture and we would like to o er local businesses the opportunity to give it a go, free of charge,” Cr Hamling said.

“This could be a great asset for businesses around town and provide an opportunity for a business to develop or expand.”

The items would be e ectively on loan from Council for one year then subject to review. The items would remain Council’s property, while it would be the responsibility of the successful applicant to maintain the items and repair if damaged.

Anyone is welcome to apply for any of the furniture listed above, but Cr Hamling said priority will be given to CBD businesses.

When submitting an Expression of Interest, businesses must show what public purpose the items will serve and how they will enhance the site. They also must include what impact it may have on parking, access and pedestrian or vehicle movements.

Expressions of interest close at 5pm on April 26. Forms can be found on the Orange City Council website: www.orange.nsw.gov.au

FOOD Week gets underway for 2024 Night Markets moved to Naylor Pavillion

The threat of wet weather has meant the Orange Food Week Night Markets on Friday, April 5, will be held in the Naylor Pavilion at the Orange Showground. The markets get underway at 5.30pm.

Orange FOOD Week, Australia’s longest-running regional food festival gets underway tomorrow night (Friday, April 5) with the always popular Night Markets.

The festival’s popular signature event is traditionally held in Robertson Park, but with rain forecast for Friday, the committee has been forced to relocate the markets to a wet weather venue for the second year in a row.

The Night Markets will now be held in the Naylor Pavilion at the Orange Showgrounds, where there will be close to 50 stalls brimming with food from the best of the Orange region’s chefs, cooks, caterers, and providores, along with wines, ciders, beers and spirits crafted by local vignerons, winemakers, brewers, and fermenters.

Shuttle buses will be in operation to ferry people between the Visitor Information Centre in Byng and the showground. Buses will run from 5.15pm–9pm.

Founded in 1991, Food Week is an annual community festival held each autumn to celebrate the Orange region’s diverse produce and high-quality food and wine.

The 10-day festival program can be found at www.orange360.com.au/Events/Orange-FOOD-Week-2024

All Fe-mail postie bike ride giving kids wings

— By Emily Middleton —

After getting her motorbike license just for the occasion last year, Orange local Joanne Westcott is once again hopping on her postie bike for the second Never Late Fe-mail Postie Bike Ride.

On April 3, 66 female postie bike riders, plus support crew, set o on a four-day adventure. The charity ride raises money and awareness for Wings 4 Kidz, a safe travel option for regional children needing specialist appointments in the city.

It’s the second time the all-female event has been held in the Central West, following various other postie bike

charity rides throughout the years.

Joanne and her team of five — the ‘Pinnacle Postiez’ — is made up of women from Orange, Dubbo and Ipswich.

“Last year was the inaugural year, and five of us from Orange went,” Joanne said. “This year we wanted to have another dose, and we have a few local ladies riding… It’s just a great time.

“Last year there were 38 women and this year there’s going to be 66 of us. So it’s double the fun really.”

Starting in Gulgong, the women will head west through Coolah, Coonabarabran, Gilgandra, and Dubbo, before finishing back in Mudgee.

It’s something Joanne and her teammates have always wanted to do. So when the opportunity came up to join last year, they hopped on their bikes and gave it a go.

“Most of us got our licenses specifically for the ride. Only one, I think, already had their license,” Joanne said.

“I’ve ridden motorbikes around the farm, but this was the whole reason to get out and get licensed, to do a postie bike ride.”

Last year, the ride raised a collective $200,000 for Wings 4 Kidz. But with almost double the amount of entries this year, expectations are high.

“We’ve had ra es, we’ve had 100

clubs, and last week we had a charity ball at a bar where we raised a big chunk of money for us. So we haven’t got the final amount, but it’s looking good,” Joanne said.

It’s the experience of chatting with locals who utilise the charity ‘Wings 4 Kidz’ that brought Joanne back for a second year in a row. Before her ride last year, Joanne admitted she didn’t know much about the charity.

“Wings 4 Kidz do such an incredible job,” Joanne said. “In every town we go through, a family member will come and talk to us and their child comes along. They talk to us about their stories, and you can’t not want to support them.”

Second Mouse Cheese Co. gets Royal tick of approval

Local cheesemaker, Second Mouse Cheese Co., has brought home its biggest medal haul ever from the 2024 Royal Sydney Easter Show.

Second Mouse Cheese Co. won five medals at this year’s Sydney Royal Cheese and Dairy Produce competition: a gold medal for their feta, silver for the ‘ Frieda’ and ‘Henri’, and a bronze each for the ‘Roobi Blue’ and halloumi.

“We’re really happy with the results,”

Second Mouse Cheese Co’s SJ Pienaar said. “Five medals, including a gold medal for our feta, which we’re very excited about!

“And I don’t believe ‘Henri’ has ever been entered into the competition before. It’s quite a unique style of cheese, and there are not a lot of people in Australia making

those Swiss styles at the moment. So we were really thrilled about that!”

While SJ said it’s been the best result they’ve had at the Sydney Royal competition, from her perspective, the quality of the cheese has remained the same year after year.

“It’s a funny thing, you submit the same products for judging every year and you can get di erent results depending on who’s judging and what they’re judging you against. So we were really thrilled with the fetta to get a gold, but it’s not changed,” she said.

Throughout each month SJ travels to markets in Bathurst, Canberra and elsewhere selling her cheese, but in Orange, you will always find Second Mouse Cheese at the Orange Produce Market, held every Saturday in the courtyard next

to Bills Beans in McLachlan Street.

Coinciding with the launch of FOOD Week, SJ will be there this Saturday, April 6, giving people a chance to taste her medal-winning cheeses.

“We’re sort of making it a special FOOD Week market,” SJ said. “It’s a great way for people to kick o their FOOD Week, especially if they’re in town for this weekend and not next weekend when the Orange Farmers market is on.

“Grab a co ee first thing after the night markets, pick up some lovely, local produce and have a chat and hit me with your cheese questions!”

The Orange Produce Market was founded in 2022, as a way for local growers to make their produce easily available to locals on a regular basis so that it becomes part of

people’s weekly shop.

Founder Edlyn Lockwood, whose husband grows and sells fruit at the market, said it has proved to be a hit.

“Really good, really busy, and lots of locals, which was the aim,” Edlyn said. “We see the same people each week, which is awesome. We get visitors as well, but the idea was this is more for the locals. We just try to make sure we have regular things each week, all the things that are in season.”

And it’s the only market in Orange where you will find the legendary Doug Dagg’s “Farmer Doug’s Potatoes,” she added. You will find the Orange Produce Market at Bills Beans East Orange courtyard (148 McLachlan Street) every Saturday morning, 8am–1pm.

Friday

We warmly invite ex-students of PLC Orange, Wolaroi College and Kinross School who completed their schooling 50 years ago or more to attend the 2024 Golden Alumni Luncheon. This year we will be celebrating the Class of 1974’s 50th anniversary of graduation. We hope you will join us for the day to reignite friendships and share memories! Visit www.kws.nsw.edu.au/community/alumni for more information or contact our Events Co-ordinator Harriet Alker on 02 5319 0321 or email halker@kws.nsw.edu.au

GARDENINGLiFE with CARO WEBSTER

A r e by any o er

name: Helleb es

The genus of plants Helleborus (commonly known as hellebores) is a group of evergreen perennial, rhizomatous flowering plants with approximately 25 species and many, many varieties. Some are herbaceous. They are from the Ranunculaceae (buttercup) family of plants and are native to Europe and the Mediterranean.

If I could only have one flowering plant in my garden, it would be Hellebores. They are so unique, beautiful and easy to care for. They are relatively pest- and diseasefree, only rarely succumbing to an attack of aphids or a case of powdery mildew,

both of which are easy to treat. Bees love them.

Most Hellebores have single fivesepalled flowers, but there are also many double varieties. The insignificant petals (in this case called nectaries) sit on top of the sepals surrounding the rather showy anthers. They look like roses, hence other common names such as lenten rose or winter rose. They range in colour from whites, pinks, magentas, lemony yellow, apricot, greens, purples, and some are almost black. Many have speckles or dots of colour. Most are not scented.

Hellebores begin flowering in earlywinter through to mid-spring. They prefer shade or semi-shade. They appreciate

morning sun. They grow best in deep, moist but free-draining soil. They do not enjoy clay or sandy soils. They are fully frost-hardy and will also cope with snow. They can also manage drought if well established.

Hellebores suit cottage gardens, pots, borders and look terrific planted under deciduous trees when colour is at a minimum in the garden. They look delightful planted in swathes and also sitting beside bulbs such as da odils, jonquils, snow drops and early flowering tulips. They make a great cut flower.

Hellebores are propagated by seed or division. If growing from seed, you may find that your new plant will di er from the original and take months to germinate and up to two years to begin flowering. Using division ensures that you will get an exact replica of the original plant and a quicker flowering time. Use gloves if dividing.

Now is the time to prune o any dead or spent flowers to prepare for new growth which will be starting to appear soon. It is also time to fertilise them with a liquid or controlled-release fertiliser. Mulch well. In earlier times, Hellebores were used to treat ‘nervous tremors or mania’ which is counterintuitive because the bulk of Hellebores are toxic to humans and can cause nasty heart problems. Tales from medieval times speak of them being used to kill people who were considered evil. They are also poisonous to your pet although it is unlikely they will try and eat them.

It is easy to get obsessed with hellebores as they are so very beautiful and easy

to grow once established. For further reading and information try and get your hands on Helen Ballard – The Hellebore Queen by Gisela Schmiemann. The book has beautiful, stylised photos, interesting historical information on hellebores and details on Helen’s breeding success hence her name “The Hellebore Queen”. Now for a little recipe. My basil is on its last legs, and I can almost see it shaking with fear anticipating the frosts that will be with us soon enough. Time to make some pesto.

Basil pesto recipe

You will need:

● 2-3 tightly packed cups of common or sweet basil. Leaves only

● Large handful of toasted pine nuts

● ½ - 1 cup of quality parmesan

● 1 tsp minced garlic

● Juice of half a lemon

● Pinch of salt flakes

● Good crack of black pepper

● Half a cup of quality extra virgin olive oil Add all the ingredients except the olive oil into a blitzer. Blend until finely diced. Now add the olive oil bit by bit until the mixture is fully incorporated and to a consistency you are happy with. Taste and adjust accordingly. It will yield two small/ medium sized jars. Store in the fridge. It will keep for around 10 days.

And don’t forget the Friends of Orange Botanic Garden are holding their autumn plant sale this Saturday and Sunday, April 6–7, from 8.30am each day.

Until next week.

Caro Webster is a passionate gardener, author, award-winning blogger, and committee member of the Friends of the Orange Botanic Gardens.

For more information on the work of the Friends, you can follow them on Facebook @OrangeFOBG

Find the footy to win one of four family passes to the Bathurst NRL clash

History repeats on two fronts ahead of the Bathurst National Rugby League (NRL) blockbuster on Saturday, April 20 at Carrington Park.

Hosts Penrith Panthers and Wests Tigers will clash for the second straight year in Bathurst, and thanks to Bathurst Regional Council, Orange City Life will again give away tickets to the Central West fixture.

Four (4) lucky people will each receive family passes to the Round Seven top-flight rugby league fixture. That’s right, four people have the chance to win a trip to the footy for them and three (3) family members.

To enter, simply ‘find the footy’ hidden somewhere in the pages of this magazine, scan the QR code, enter your contact details, and let us know what page. You can also email your entries to reception@oclife.com.au or drop them into the o ce by 12 noon on Monday, April 15.

We will notify the lucky winners who can then share the good news with their friends and family.

Being a 3pm day match, it’s the perfect opportunity to witness live NRL action.

If conditions are dry, daytime rugby league lends itself to better ball-handling and more open play.

Penrith, who have won three of its first four matches at the time of print, will be refreshed with a Round Six bye before the showdown.

However, Wests Tigers opened their account in 2024 with a 32-6 thumping of the well-credentialled Cronulla Sharks in Round Three and won again in Round Four after pipping Parramatta on Easter Monday (17-16).

The in-form Tigers will also be buoyed by last year’s 12-8 upset win against Penrith in Bathurst.

Tries to Brandon Wakeham and David Nofoaluma – the winger’s 100th in the NRL - and two goals to Wakeham were

enough for the Tigers to steal an upset four-point win.

A huge crowd of 11,055 attended Carrington Park despite the wet conditions with another notable highlight a pair of 40-20 kicks to then Tigers hal ack Luke Brooks.

The fact Wests Tigers went on to finish last in the 17-team NRL and Penrith eventually won a third straight premiership in 2023 means on any given day of football, anything can happen.

Who knows what will occur this time around? The best way to find out live is to get footy-spotting or get tickets.

The April 20 match headlines a huge week of events put on by Bathurst Regional Council, Bathurst Panthers and Penrith Panthers.

On Thursday, April 18 the annual Westfund Play Like a Panther Clinic will be held from 4pm to 5.30pm.

This event regularly sees juniors aged five to 13 from across the Group 10 region flock to George Park, Bathurst to learn skills and drills from NRL development sta and club volunteers. The clinic will finish with a visit from Penrith Panthers players. Registration is a must on the Bathurst Regional Council website.

Later that evening, Panthers will hold a meet and greet with the whole squad from 6.30pm at Bathurst Panthers Leagues Club. It’s a chance to get an autograph of your favourite player.

On Friday, April 19 the Bathurst Panthers Sportsman’s Lunch is on at Bathurst Panthers. Doors open at 12.30pm for 1pm start. This two-course dining experience will also feature Penrith coach Ivan Cleary and two members of the NRL Squad among other dignitaries. Tickets are $90 per person and are available through 123Tix.

Bathurst NRL 2024 tickets are also available through 123Tix.

WIN

SHINING THE LIGHT ON LOCAL PRODUCERS

Night Market

A handpicked series of show, tell and taste workshops that highlight the iconic

of the region’s produce. Local producers alongside local chefs and cooks

and their

Orange

10.00AM – 12.30pm

Sunday 7 April, Monday 8 April, Tuesday 9 April, Thursday

11 April, Friday 12 April

$20 pp (including GST and booking fee)

Monday 8 April: Gourmet Preserves & Pork

Richard and Felix are both passionate about what they produce. Richard from Franklin Road Preserves tells a wonderful story of a backyard full of cucumbers. Felix produces all Australian 100% locally grown pigs and hormone free pork products at the Trunkey Creek Family Farm.

Tuesday 9 April: Apples, Cherries & Cheese

Paula and S.J. are passionate country women. Paula is a third-generation orchardist and owner of Thornbrook Orchard and Hillside Harvest.

S.J.’s delightful Second Mouse Cheese story is all about how a cheese making class started her on the journey to become an Artisan Cheesemaker.

Thursday 11 April: Sa ron and Taste Spain

Angela and Ruben share a great love for Orange for very di erent reasons. Angela tells of the early challenges in growing Argyle Sa ron.

Chef Ruben Loplez Mesa shares the story of his journey from Pinto in Spain to Australia, and finally to Orange, so like his hometown in Spain!

The final event on the FOOD Week calendar is the Sunday Producers Market and Brunch.

Come down to Cook Park on Sunday 14 April for co ee and brunch, fresh local produce, hats and wares, local wine and tastings. Live music from local artists Meg and Lucy (@lucyandmegmusic_) will be a sweet sign o to FOOD Week 2024.

Hot summer hasn’t deterred BIANNUAL PLANT SALE

Aiming to raise enough money for a native garden, Friends of the Orange Botanic Garden are once again back for their biannual plant sale. Held each year in autumn and spring, the plant sale o ers a wide range of natives and exotics, grown by dedicated volunteers.

“We grow a lot of natives from proportion and seed, as well as a lot of exotics which we gather mostly from cuttings,” Friends of the Orange Botanic Garden member Libby West said.

A challengingly hot summer presented volunteers with an array of di culties, but they have managed to pull through with hundreds of plants ready to go.

“We have had a few problems with the excessive heat and keeping them watered; some of the pots are very small. So we have lost quite a few,” Libby said.

Signs of autumn have already made themselves known in Orange, and experts say it’s the best time to prepare your garden for planting. Already ready and acclimated to the Orange weather, plants available at the sale have come directly from the Botanic Garden, Canobolas, and the surrounding areas.

The sale will include popular natives such as acacia (wattle), eucalyptus, bottle brushes, grevilleas (spider flowers), prostantheras and native grasses, as well as exotics such as butterfly bushes, hebes, hydrangeas, and an abundance of salvias.

The Friends of Orange Botanic Garden plant sale will be held on Saturday, April 6, and Sunday, April 7, from 8.30am each day.

RURAL HEALTH MATTERS

Since 2001, 1,742 individuals have tragically lost their lives due to non-intentional incidents on farms in Australia, with 32 deaths reported in 2023 alone. This figure, though declining, serves as a stern reminder of the inherent risks faced by agricultural workers on a daily basis.

AgHealth Australia’s recently published 2023 Non-intentional farm-related incidents in Australia report, funded by AgriFutures Australia, plays a pivotal role in understanding and presenting farmrelated injuries and fatalities. By leveraging this data, we can work together to create safer and healthier work environments for farmers, workers and visitors.

Quad-bikes and tractors leading causes of farm-related deaths

Quad-bikes and tractors continue to be the leading causes of farm-related deaths in Australia. With regard to injuries alone, quad bikes are the leading cause by a significant margin, followed by horses,

In the sprawling landscape of Australian agriculture, safety is paramount

cattle, motorbikes and tractors. These five agents alone accounted for 72% of all incidents reported in 2023.

To address the dangers or risks posed by quad-bikes and tractors, targeted safety programs and evidence-based solutions are necessary. These include fitting older quad-bikes with operator protection devices (OPDs), promoting helmet use, and implementing rollover protection structures (ROPS) on tractors.

Seatbelt use is also crucial in preventing injuries on farms, serving as a vital safety measure against potential consequences.

In addition to physical safety measures, education and training provide workers with the knowledge and skills they need to identify and mitigate risks, and we can empower them to protect themselves and their colleagues from harm.

While progress has been made, continued investment in research, education and advocacy is essential to identify and address emerging risks in the agriculture sector.

Farm safety is not just a matter of statistics

Farm safety is about protecting the lives and livelihoods of those who work tirelessly to put food on our tables. Despite the progress made in recent years, there is still work to be done to ensure that every farmer returns home safely at the end of the day.

Of course, safety is not just the responsibility of individual workers; it requires a coordinated effort from all stakeholders in the agriculture industry, including farmers, industry organisations, government agencies and the wider community.

By working together, we can create a culture of safety that prioritises the wellbeing of agricultural workers and reduces the risk of accidents on farms. Whether through research, education or advocacy, there is a role for everyone to play to ensure farming remains a safe and sustainable profession for generations to come.

For more information visit https://aghealth.sydney.edu.au

AUTHOR BIO

Kerri-Lynn Peachey is the Farm Safety Research Manager at AgHealth Australia, part of The University of Sydney’s School of Rural Health

Thumbs up to free fun at

PCYC

open day!

I’ve had my

COVID-19 vaccination

The PCYC open day is right around the corner and all members of the community are invited to take part in the fun.

The open day — between 8am–12.30pm this Saturday, April 6— the PCYC will run a whole range of “taster” classes from fitness and boxing to guitar lessons. And all classes are free to try.

“It’s just an opportunity for people to come in and see what we do here,” Orange PCYC club manager, Jamie Wenban said.

Jamie expects the renovations to the gym and fitness area, including a new boxing space, will be ready by the open day and hopes the community enjoys the opportunity to finally give it a go.

And for just $5 a ticket, the open day ra e could have you enjoying the PCYC facilities even longer.

Prizes include 10 term passes for activities, meaning winners can enjoy boxing, guitar, and gymnastics at no cost for a whole term.

The open day also coincides with the conclusion of the PCYC’s annual fundraiser, the StarJump Challenge, which sees people raise money by pledging to do 100 star jumps a day between March 22 and April 6.

....Thank you to everybody who already comes, they're the ones that are keeping the doors open and helping us support kids in the community...

“The StarJump Challenge is about getting kids active,” Jamie said. “Everything we do is about getting kids active. So the purpose behind it is… they get people to sponsor them to do their star jumps. So people will pay them that amount and they donate it to us. Similar to Jump Rope for Heart.”

Money from the fundraiser all goes back to the club to ensure Orange PCYCs programs continue to support the community’s youth. “We run a lot of programs in conjunction with the police, and we just want to give them a safe place to be and have a mentor, so they’ve got someone supporting these aspects of their life,” Jamie said.

“Everything we do here goes to keeping the doors open, and to running our youth programs. Thank you to everybody who already comes, they’re the ones that are keeping the doors open and helping us support kids in the community, helping us to get crime rates down.”

The Orange PCYC open day will be held this Saturday, April 6, from 8am until 12.30pm.

COVID-19 vaccination is your best protection against serious illness

If you are an adult at higher risk of severe illness or are 65 years and over, a free COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for you every 6 to 12 months.

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about what is best for you.

For more information on getting your free COVID vaccination, including how to book, visit nsw.gov.au/vaccination

Ithink it’s fair to say that most of us look forward to one day being able to put our feet up and retire. After all, who doesn’t enjoy a 4-day weekend over Easter? Imagine when every day is a day o work!

My question to you is this: Will you get to retire with the lifestyle you want to enjoy?

If so, that takes planning! And as a financial planner, it’s my job to work with people to help them make plans, implement those plans, and reap the rewards down the track.

Most people never seek financial advice. Most people also retire and have to reduce their lifestyle when they get to that point because they did not put a plan in place to set them up for the retirement they would have wanted. It is a huge price to pay from not taking action. After all, hope is not a plan.

The fact is that getting paid on a regular basis lulls us until a false sense of security. Every fortnight (for some people they get paid weekly or monthly) our bank account gets topped up with cash from our pay. Works pretty well… until it comes time to retire and then we have to start paying ourselves. If we haven’t done what needed to be done during

Will you be one of the few people who retires on their own terms?

our working lives, we end up in a situation where we simply don’t have the resources to keep paying ourselves at the same level. That usually results in one of two outcomes. Firstly, people may keep spending as they did while they were working and find they run out of money quickly, or secondly, people have to reduce their lifestyle to ensure their money will last… right at the point in their lives where they have all the time in the world to be enjoying lifestyle.

Neither is a good result!

Years ago I heard it put very well: When we retire we get to start full time living!

Don’t let the chances slip through your fingers to have the retirement you deserve. Get in touch and let’s sit down and start mapping out a plan for your long-term financial future, so that years from now you can sit back and be thankful you did. After all, the biggest regret of people over the age of 65 is that they didn’t save more for

retirement. Additionally, the biggest fear of retirees is running out of money. A well thought out financial plan can take care of both issues.

The biggest thing to point out here is that it’s nowhere near as hard as you might think. You don’t have to live on baked beans to get your money working a lot harder. I often think one of biggest challenges is simply that people don’t know what they don’t know. So, now is the time to get clued up on how you are tracking and what you can be doing to get ahead.

As we already move into April, don’t let 2024 be another year that slips through your fingers without a solid financial plan in place.

The good news is that help isn’t far away. Independent financial advice is here on your doorstep in Orange.

Planning to retire on your own terms isn’t something you should put o , because the more time you give yourself to prepare, the easier it is!

This is one area of life where good things don’t come to those who wait.

Cheers, Daniel

City Centre travelator back in action

Just in time for a busy Easter Long Weekend, the Orange City Centre reopened the travelator linking the shopping centre to the underground carpark last Thursday.

The ascending travelator had been out of action since the middle of last year, a source of frustration for many shoppers. The installation of a brand-new travelator began in February and was finally opened to the public last week.

“It’s not something you can just buy o the shelf,” Orange City Centre manager, Nicole Chapman said.

“We went to tender, we went through all that process, then we awarded the contract and then had to get surveys and construction plans… and then it was built overseas and shipped back, so that’s why it has taken so long.”

To celebrate the restored access to the centre car park on Thursday, the Orange City Centre put on free live entertainment from Neil Gill, face painting and balloons for the kids, ‘Spin to Win’ giveaways and an appearance from the Easter Bunny.

CROSS purposes

FOR ENEMIES LIKE US

WITH JOHN PERRETT

Two thousand years ago, on a hill outside Jerusalem, a man called Jesus was executed. Jesus was innocent of any wrongdoing but was killed all the same. More than a man he is the Son of God, so powerful he could raise the dead and calm violent storms just by speaking. Why then would he let himself be killed? Surely the men who killed him had no real power over him? But Jesus did die and he died willingly in order to pay the price for the sin (disobedience) and evil of humanity. And although the ancient Romans executed him, it was God’s punishment for our sins that Jesus faced that day. What amazes me most is that Jesus died in our place, not because humanity loved him, because we didn’t — we rejected Him. Nor was it because there were some of us that were “pretty good” and deserved the exchange, there weren’t any then and there never will be. He did it because he loved us.

The Bible says it like this: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Orange City Centre manager, Nicole Chapman joined the Easter Bunny in celebrating the launch of the new travelator last week.

funding for local orchardists

√ $1.2 million for CCTV in Orange, Bathurst and Wellington

√ 47 mobile phone towers and base stations across Calare

This year, three of our region’s young leaders made it to the final round of the Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman Competition.

The competition is all about fostering future leaders and supporting the development of young ambassadors for rural New South Wales.

A big congratulations to Orange’s Paris Capell who was named runner-up in the final held at the Sydney Royal Easter Show recently!

Paris was the first representative from Orange to make it to the final since 1986, and is the first woman from Orange to ever place in the prestigious competition!

Paris works at the NSW Department of Primary Industries as a climate vulnerability assessment project officer. She's also the Central Tablelands Intrepid Landcare copresident, the Central West Young Aggies Secretary, and a committee member of the Orange Show Society.

Well done, Paris! We can’t wait to see all that you achieve this year!

Congratulations must also go

whole competition!

It was great to catch up with some of the mighty mighty Matildas at Parliament House last week!

I got the chance to meet veteran forward Michelle Heyman - you might've seen Michelle's stunning four-goal burst against Uzbekistan back in February!

Michelle debuted for the Matildas in 2010, and after a solid career,

retired after 61 caps and 20 goals. The hunger to play returned, and she made one hell of a come back in the 2020-21 season, eclipsing Sam Kerr’s record to become the W-League’s all-time leading goalscorer!

Michelle is hoping to get a call up to play for the Matildas team at this year's Paris Olympics! If so, it'll be her second Olympics, having been part of the Matildas squad in Rio 2016.

IOt was fantastic to meet Orange High School Vice Captain Natalie Mansur at Parliament House recently!

Natalie was one of about 100 students from right across Australia who was selected to participate in the 29th National Schools Constitutional Convention.

The event encourages senior school students in Years 11 and 12 to explore and engage with the Australian Constitution.

Congratulations, Natalie! I hope you enjoyed your time in Canberra!

I’M OPPOSING THE NEW TAX ON FARMERS

ur farmers make an extraordinary contribution to the life of our nation. They feed and clothe Australians and many people around the globe. They battle drought, floods, bushfires, plagues and way too much government red tape.

Agricultural production has been a crucial plank in the economic success of Australia.

Given this extraordinary contribution, it is outrageous that our farmers should be slugged with a new tax to pay for increased biosecurity that is the responsibility of all Australians, not just farmers.

Our farmers export their produce to the world. The biosecurity threats

Australia faces are coming from imported goods and produce, often brought into Australia in shipping containers. A levy on shipping containers coming into the country would be a much fairer way of paying for the ramping up of biosecurity at our borders. Many farmers already pay biosecurity levies through industry bodies so this is a double tax.

It’s also concerning that in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis, the government is going to add to agricultural production costs which will end up making this crisis even worse.

Biosecurity is vitally important, but a new tax on farmers? It’s a NO from me.

In Parliament last week I spoke against the tax and voted against it too.

Bob Katter with Bernard Hall at his orchard

SPRING HILL EASTER HAT PARADE

Photos by

CEC TILBURG

Spring Public School was abuzz with excitement on Thursday, March 28, with proud students flaunting their handmade hats in the traditional Easter Hat Parade. Parents, grandparents, and families were all there to witness the colourful spectacle. A highlight was the bubble-making session led by teacher Haidee Edwards, whose giant bubble creations captivated all. It was a morning filled with pride, creativity, and community spirit!

You are a doughnut

Monday, April 8

From the creators of “The Alphabet of Awesome Science”, “You are a Doughnut” is an all-singing, all-dancing (and all-clowning!) exploration of every twisting tube and remarkable organ of the human digestive system with sketches, songs, and sensational science.

It’s a little bit gross — and a ‘hole’ lotta fun! You might even learn something!

Experience “You are a doughnut” at the Orange Civic Theatre on Monday, April 8 at 6pm. Tickets at Ticketek or call 6393 8111.

Anh Do: The Happiest Refugee

Tuesday, April 9

See Anh Do, one of Australia’s most talented comedians, tell his inspiring story at the Orange Civic Theatre on Tuesday, April 9, 7.30pm.

Tickets at Ticketek or call 6393 8111.

Orange FOOD Week 2024

April 5–14

Orange FOOD Week, Australia’s longestrunning regional food festival, gets underway tomorrow night with the Night Markets.

The 10-day community festival celebrates the Orange region’s diverse produce and high-quality food and wine. It showcases the farmers who grow it and the local chefs, cooks, restaurateurs, and caterers who create extraordinary dishes with the bountiful produce of the region.

For the the full program of events, visit: www.orange360.com.au/Events/ Orange-FOOD-Week-2024

No one deprived of fun at this week’s

Off the Tracks

Home-grown melodic groove metal band Deprivation are coming back to where it all began, fresh from a stint on the world’s biggest metal stage.

Deprivation are set to headline Orange’s long-running local band showcase O The Tracks (formerly 4 on the 4loor) at The Victoria Hotel this weekend, the band’s first hometown gig since their amazing opportunity to perform at the Wacken Open Air festival in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany last year.

“We were put in front of about 4000 people, and it was almost called o due to extreme weather… It was pretty intense,” lead guitarist of Deprivation, Lachlan Harrison said.

Since their inception in 2006, Deprivation has appeared all across Australia, with plenty of gigs in and around Orange. But after entering a ‘battle of the bands’ competition on a whim, and placing first among all other state representatives, Deprivation found themselves heading international for the first time.

“We ended up coming first… which took us by surprise. We then had five weeks to organise getting five dudes over to Germany, save up heaps of money, get some crowdfunding and stu like that,” Lachlan said.

“We ended up making it happen, and we flew over and played, which was just amazing.”

The Wacken Open Air heavy metal music festival usually sees 85,000 people through the gates, but the 2023 event had reduced capacity due to weather conditions.

“They reduced the first day to 20,000 people, but then the weather got better and better. It goes for three or four days, the

whole festival… so each day those tickets got to be filled again. And by the end of it, it was kind of like the full festival,” Lachlan said.

But even with the festival back in full swing, the mud sludge surrounding the grounds made for an unforgettable experience.

“We had to get towed because it was so muddy in the camping grounds… It was a great introduction,” Lachlan said.

O the back of their Wacken success, Deprivation were asked to support the Brazilian metal icon Sepultura in their Australian tour.

“It has breathed a whole bunch of new life into us,” Lachlan said. “We were kind of just going with the flow, playing gigs here and there, not really doing too much because we didn’t think anything like that would ever happen.”

Now back home where Deprivation was born, the crew are ready to bring their energy and atmosphere to the Victoria Hotel.

“We put a lot of energy into our live performances, and really try and make sure everyone’s having a good time. We get the crowd involved, go out into the crowd etc,” Lachlan said.

With a great lineup of local metal talent, Lachlan hopes attendees come early to enjoy and support everyone playing.

“You have to support the local bands where you can, because it can be taken for granted. It doesn’t happen very often in a town like this, you have to get as much support as you can.”

O the Tracks at The Vic featuring Deprivation will be held at the Victoria Hotel this weekend, April 6. Entry is free. Music kicks o at 8pm.

PCYC ORANGE SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM

COST: $55 Per Day

AGES: Kinder - Year 6

TIME: 8AM-5.30PM

BOOK NOW

Please bring a water bottle, morning/afternoon tea and lunch. Must wear enclosed footwear. $10 extra for Ten pin bowling

MON 15TH APR

TUE 16TH APR

WED 17TH APR

THUR 18TH AP

FRI 19TH APR

MON 22ND AP

TUE 23RD APR

WED 24TH APR

THU 25TH APR

T-Ball | Parkour | Painting

Yoga | Ten Pin Bowling | Futsal

2 Hr Multi sport workshop | 2 Hr Gymnastics workshop | Disco

Trivia | Minute to win it | Basketball

Cooking | Laser tag | Ultimate frisbee

obstacle course | Gymnastics | Boxing

Anzac craft | Ten Pin Bowling | Boxing

2 Hr Multi sport workshop | 2 Hr Gymnastics workshop | Disco

FRI 26TH APR CLOSED ANZAC DAY

Cooking | Laser tag | Bingo

CONTACT US: 2-10 Seymour st Orange | 02 63602249

ith the advancements in technology, there is nothing we can’t do online. From ordering groceries and browsing the latest fashion, to completing university degrees and meeting your soulmate.

Your banking and finances are no di erent, and many banks and credit unions are now o ering a range of online access options.

Internet Banking allows you to access your accounts in real-time, with a view of your credits and debits, loan information, ability to transfer via standard bank transfer or instantly with OSKO and even pay your bills through BPAY.

Looking to reduce your carbon footprint and reduce fees?

You could sign up to receive eStatements and your statements will be delivered straight to your Internet Banking account.

A Mobile App is even more portable, with control of your finances in the palm of your hand across both Android and iOS devices.

Members are encouraged to keep an eye out for the release of Orange Credit Union’s easy to use and secure Mobile App in the coming weeks, with great new security features and functionality.

But what about online scams and fraud?

Orange Credit Union is passionate about helping the community fight back against cyber-crime and scams. Our team regularly helps increase awareness of scams and supports the community with free information workshops to prevent fraud and scams.

Whether you bank with us at Orange Credit Union or any other bank across australia, we want to ensure the local community has the tools and information to Stay Safe online. Visit orangecu. com.au/staysafe for the latest in fraud and scams updates, hints and tips to keep your finances secure and information about our upcoming Stay Safe Forums.

Bank Local with Orange Credit Union.

There is a single attached garage and a large, covered storage area at the back. Situated on

Conveniently located within an easy walk to North Orange Shopping Centre, the Botanic Gardens and the Adventure Playground.

Enjoys glorious views towards Mt Canobolas and is

Centre and the North Orange Shopping complex.

SALE

Riverside Retreat

10 Stoke Lane, Carcoar NSW

Nestled along the tranquil banks of the Belubula River, 10 Stoke Lane offers a serene retreat in the picturesque township of Carcoar. This charming residence presents an idyllic blend of comfort, style, and natural beauty, promising a lifestyle of relaxed sophistication.

Upon arrival, a sense of tranquillity envelopes you as the property's lush greenery and scenic vistas welcome you home. Situated on a generous plot, this residence boasts a prime position, with its backyard gently sloping towards the serene waters of the Belubula River, providing a private oasis for relaxation and recreation.

The residence comprises three generously sized bedrooms, including a luxurious master suite complete with a private ensuite bathroom. Each bedroom offers a peaceful retreat, adorned with plush carpeting, built-in storage, and large windows framing tranquil views of the surrounding landscape.

Sale

Contact Agent

Open

By Appointment Only

James Taylor 0457 792 800

Ray White Townsend

Real Estate raywhitetre.com

SALE

Kentucky Pine - A Tranquil Retreat for Outdoor Enthusiasts!

2 Beasley Road, Lucknow NSW

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and countryside charm with this stunning 3-bedroom home nestled on 4825SQM of picturesque land, just 5 minutes from Orange.

Ideal for those who relish the great outdoors, this property offers a unique lifestyle opportunity with the added bonus of 22 dog kennels and 3 expansive grass dog runs and 2 pup whelping yards.

Immerse yourself in the warmth of this well-appointed 3bedroom home, offering a spacious and inviting retreat for families or anyone seeking a relaxed lifestyle. Conveniently located just 5 minutes drive from Orange, residents can experience the tranquillity of rural living without sacrificing accessibility to amenities, shops, and cultural attractions.

21

Step

Two

Indulge your cinematic fantasies in the dedicated theatre room, where movie nights are elevated to an unforgettable experience.

The heart of the home is a well equipped kitchen that will delight the culinary connoisseur within. Equipped with premium appliances, ample storage, and sleek countertops, this culinary haven makes meal preparation a joy.

The expansive master suite is a sanctuary of relaxation, boasting a spacious layout, walk-in robe, and lavish ensuite bathroom.

Sale

Contact Agent Open

Sale $760,000 - $800,000

Open By Appointment Only

James Taylor 0457 792 800

Ray White Townsend

Real Estate

SALE

Lifestyle Block

5547 Burrendong Way, Stuart Town NSW

Sitting 6 minutes just out of Stuart Town, this 2-acre (approx.) property is ready for those looking for a lifestyle change.

Whether you are looking at a lifestyle block, weekend getaway or living off grid, opportunities like this don't come around too often.

With the services of Orange and Molong only about 40 minutes away, enjoy the quieter life while having all amenities at your fingertips.

Featuring a Dam and an Established Shed as well as being fully fenced, with your touch and creativity, the lifestyle and opportunities you could create on this unique block of land are endless.

Rural

Auction Thursday 18th April ‘24

Orange NSW

Open By Appointment Only

Wade Clarke 0427 668 800

Ray White Townsend Real Estate raywhitetre.com

Rural

"Billys Gully" - Your Gateway to Rural Bliss

“Billys Gully” 127 Adair Drive, Orange NSW

101-hectare farm with soft rolling hill and undulating basalt grazing

Predominately open grazing country, with plenty of shade and shelter trees

Fully fenced with quality waratah fencing, sub-divided into 3 paddocks

Power pole with transformer connected to the boundary

Well-watered with four dams

Numerous building sites with beautiful views

Prime Agricultural Land Offering Versatile Farming Opportunities

‘Highfield East’ 170 Kurrajong Road , Cudal NSW

"Highfield East" is an outstanding 296-acre (119 hectares) mixed farming property, presenting a high level of agricultural performance and is suitable for cattle, sheep and cropping.

Well serviced with rich soils, secure water, and cultivation opportunities. Meets all requirements for building entitlement and power runs through the property.

"Highfield East" is a highly productive, attractive vacant block and offers the opportunity to continue a successful farming operation.

Auction

Thursday 18th April ‘24

Orange NSW

Open By Appointment Only

Kurt Adams 0428 747 050

Ray White Townsend

Real Estate raywhitetre.com

Rural

Auction Thursday 18th April ‘24

Orange NSW

Open By Appointment Only

Kurt Adams 0428 747 050

Stephen Townsend 0427 631 957

Ray White Townsend

Real Estate raywhitetre.com

First Time Offered in 68 Years!

‘Avondale’ 306 Cowriga Road, Orange NSW

“Avondale" offers a unique opportunity to invest in prime agricultural and lifestyle real estate in the heart of the Central Tablelands. Boasting heavy, rich red Basalt soils, this 273.5-acre property is renowned for its breeding and fattening capabilities. "Avondale" provides a well-maintained double-brick homestead, dating back to around the 1890's. With 5 bedrooms and 1 office, this residence offers both historical charm and modern comfort. Infrastructure is abundant on the property, with machinery sheds, hay sheds, and cattle yards, facilitating efficient farming operations.

Auction Thursday 9th May ‘24

Orange NSW

Open By Appointment Only

Kurt Adams 0428 747 050

Stephen Townsend

0427 631 957

Ray White Townsend

Real Estate raywhitetre.com

3

Tranquil Luxury with Unmatched Views

Welcome to 916 Lower Lewis Ponds Road; a tranquil haven under 20 minutes from the CBD. The home has a large open plan living and dining area with high raked ceilings and the 3.87 ha has unmatched views over Ophir and beyond. Experience the serenity of rural living at its finest. Contact:

91

Attention Investors and Developers!

Presenting a rare gem nestled in the sought-after inner North Orange location this sizable block of land spans 1.76 hectares and comes complete with an existing house ripe for development and backs on to the Orange Botanic Gardens. Whether you envision a luxury estate or a boutique residential community, this blank canvas awaits your creative touch.

Scan QR Code to see all Open House Times

Contact: Jacob Evans 0428 130 789

Expressions

2 WATTLEBIRD PLACE

Perfect Family Home for Work or Play

Located in a quiet cul-de-sac and boasting northerly living areas, this 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom, home offers much more than meets the eye. Featuring a spacious kitchen with excellent storage that is well complimented by the paved entertaining area, overlooking the landscaped gardens and spa pool.This has been a wonderful family home, and now’s your opportunity to create your own memories.

Contact:

1 MCKAY CRESCENT

311

Elegance and Functionality in A Flourishing Neighbourhood

Nestled in a prime location just 2km from the CBD, this charming residence is the epitome of tranquillity and modern comfort. Meticulously renovated from top to bottom, flooded with natural light, this home boasts high ceilings, original sash windows, newly polished timber floors. With its excellent position in a family-friendly cul de sac, you’ll delight in a leisurely stroll to Calare Public School, Orange High School, Elephant Park and Endeavour Oval.

Scan QR Code to see all Open House Times

Contact: Hugh Britton 0419 436 399

Price: $635,000

ROAD

A Wonderful Forever Home

Welcome to your dream home nestled on a generous 2.9 hectares of peaceful country surrounds yet only a short drive from the many amenities of Orange. This gorgeous home is bright and spacious with ample space for all the family. A rare opportunity to embrace a tranquil lifestyle in a peaceful setting on the edge of town.

Scan QR Code to see all Open House Times

132 March Street

Price Guide: Contact Agent

Price: $749,000

59 AUTUMN STREET

Cosy East Orange Cottage

This cosy cottage is very much loved by its owners and is nicely tucked away in the East Orange precinct. The updated cottage feels warm and inviting and the real hero is the big double shed with high roller doors, woodfire plus shower and toilet. There is nothing that needs doing except to move in and enjoy.

Scan QR Code to see all Open House Times

213

Contact: Adam Savage 0419 232 416

Price Guide: $629,000-$649,000

15 Kite Street Price: $1,389,000

Contact: Michael Wright 0421 360 948

211

This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom house is the perfect place to call home. Original features throughout; are well complemented by a modern kitchen with bi-fold windows that overlook the peaceful yard. located just 2 blocks from the heart of the CBD, it’s an easy walk to nearby parks, shops, and restaurants. This property offers

36 Boree Street Cudal

Price: $329,000

Contact: Hugh Britton 0419 436 399

224 McLachlan Street Price Guide: $900,000-$950,000 Contact: Chris Mason 0438 629 417

Prime Development Opportunity

Nestled in the desirable East Orange location, close to essential amenities, schools, and the CBD, this property presents a golden opportunity for savvy investors. Sitting on a large block spanning 1619m2 with an existing cottage plus an approved DA for construction of three contemporary units, the plans of which can be provided on request.

313 Dalton Street Expressions of Interest

Contact: Jacob Evans 0428 130 789

311

An Opportunity Awaits

310

The block offers a unique opportunity with three road frontage access points. Ideally located close to the Northern Distributor with services and utilities already within easy proximity there is great scope for an impressive return on investment limited only by your imagination. Close to schools, sporting amenities and with easy access to the Northern Distributor, this is an investors dream.

Cook Park Area

Contact:

311

The property has DA approval for conversion to a beautiful double brick family home – plans available on request. Original features include magnificent timber work on double hung windows, doorways, skirting boards, picture rails, fireplace, mantle, and flooring. Located in one of Oranges premier streets makes this the perfect central living package.

48 Byng Street

In the Heart of Central Orange

322

Set in the heart of Orange in one of its finest streets, this beautiful home will capture your heart. The only thing more perfect than the location is the home itself which is a fine example of the historic homes that grace the older streets of Orange and are much sought after by discerning buyers.

36

Renovated Gem with Great Shed

This renovated gem features new carpet and paint, a spacious shed with split system and wood fire, great backyard access, and an open plan living dining area. The fourth bedroom boasts an ensuite with internal laundry access, and the single garage is currently a home gym.

39

Nest or Invest Here

You could not find a more perfect starting point for jumping onto the property ladder as owner or investor than this tidy house. In a great area with popular schools within walking distance, it offers a neat and comfortable home. Properties in the Calare area don’t usually hang around for long so inspect while you can.

9

424

8 Diamond Drive

61 Cox Avenue

Price Guide: $649,000 -$689,000

44 Gardiner Road

Price: $629,000

Price: $739,000

Contact: Michael Wright 0421 360 948

Could be What You’re Looking For

Contact: Adam Savage 0419 232 416

Central, Solid and Affordable

422

Within easy walking distance to the North Orange shopping centre, the Adventure Playground and Waratah sports grounds, this neat and tidy home will surprise you. The generous open plan kitchen, dining and lounge room area faces north and opens onto a sunny, private entertaining area. This could be the home you’ve been looking for.

311

Ideally located in the Warrendine area and only a short walk to the nearby Aquatic Centre, Bowling Club and great parks. This is a solid home with three bedrooms, two living areas and a renovated kitchen. Make sure you put this on your list to inspect as it won’t disappoint.

Flexibility, Liveability and Affordability

Contact: Adam Savage 0419 232 416 520

Step inside and you’ll be pleasantly surprised at what this charming home has to offer. The flexible layout suits multigenerational families with 2 bedrooms and one bathroom at one end of the house and another 3 bedrooms, or an office and a second bathroom at the other end. Flexibility, liveability and affordability are all on offer.

Warrendine Area

The house has 3 bedrooms all with built in wardrobes, a bathroom with bath, shower and separate toilet. There is vehicle access into the backyard, a garden shed and nice pergola area to sit, relax under and take in the rural outlook over the backyard. This is ideal for the first home buyer or investor. 2

•

•

Charm and Character I 2* HA (5*

Face in the Crowd

you found the face on or email us an entry.

Find Pinny

We have a voucher for Orange Tenpin Bowl valued at $60 to give away each week, so the family can go bowling!

Each week we’ll hide a small version of “Pinny” (pictured) somewhere in OCLife. It could be anywhere. To enter, simply find him, write your name and phone number on the back of an envelope, along with the page number you found him on, and send in...

Looney Lotto

Win a voucher to the value of $20, to use at Coco’s Cafe or Paul’s @ Coco’s

TO WIN: If you have a personal or business phone number with these 4 numbers appearing in any order within it, put in an entry and we’ll draw a

There was a long queue at Millthorpe railway yards in January 1963 when farmers arrived with trucks loaded with recently harvested wheat. The recent warm weather allowed farmers to strip the crop, but when an elevator broke down, the queue grew. The silos could store 100,000 bushels of wheat.

Photo courtesy CWD negative collection, Orange and District Historical Society. The society holds a volunteers work day at Heritage Cottage (148 March Street) each Wednesday from 10.30am to 4pm (with a lunch break from 12.30 –1.30pm). Members are available to answer inquiries at this time.

Pinnacle Dragon Boat Club

hosts a day for ‘messing about in boats’ on Lake Canobolas.

News that two Western Region dragon boat events, usually held during March, were to be cancelled prompted members of the Pinnacle Dragon Boat Club of Orange to take action.

In just a few short weeks, Pinnacles put together a program of races and other activities rarely seen at regattas. It was all so ‘last minute’, being unable to come up with a name for the event, help was sought from regional club members with Lisa Vidler suggesting “Dragon March” (it being March and we’re all dragon boaters)

Knowing several regional dragon boaters were training hard for the State Championships and others were heading to Tasmania to compete in the Four Bridges, a cruelling 40-plus kilometre paddle down the Derwent River, Pinnacle Dragons had little idea of how many to expect at Lake Canobolas.

Just days before the event, a phone call from Newcastle Hunter River Dragons telling us they’d heard Pinnacle

Dragons were planning something and could they come. Needless to say, the answer was a resounding ‘YES’. The day started with each paddler taking a ‘pebble’ out of a bag, the colour of which resulted in each of the 3 crews being a mix of paddlers from the 6 clubs present.

The first event of the day tested the powers of observation as crews explored Lake Canobolas following clues. Other events included testing the skills of the paddlers keeping the boat in a straight line without the aid of the Steerer, the speed of the crews in a straightout 150-meter race, a tug-of-war, and which crew could scope up the most tennis balls—the latter event causing much friendly rivalry and a lot of laughter.

The day ended with a long, delicious barbecue lunch which was supervised by supporters of Pinnacle Dragons.

And which/who was the winning team? Let’s just say too close to call!

Orange

Prostate Cancer Support Group

At our March meeting, the Orange Prostate Cancer Support Group decided to cancel all its winter meetings.

We will recommence regular meetings again in September. In the meantime, we may call a meeting if urgent business arises that cannot be dealt with by the executive.

We will be available to assist anybody who requires information or assistance regarding Prostate Cancer.

For assistance, call Ray on 63625257, Charlie on 63611830 or email charles.yvonne@bigpond.com

We will be holding an information stand at the Australian National Field Days and we will be calling for assistance to set up and help run the stand at a later date.

Unfortunately, men diagnosed with prostate cancer is on the rise. More men are having the simple blood test, but 10 men a day are dying across Australia from prostate cancer or complications from the disease being diagnosed too late.

We ask all family members to ensure that all men in their family are over 50 or, if there is a family history of prostate cancer over 40, ask their GP for a simple blood test.

No. 222

QUICK QUIZ

6 LETTERS CEDARS DETACH EDGIER STEREO

7 LETTERS COMFORT DECLINE ROOMIER SEARING SEASIDE TROOPER

8 LETTERS ARMOURED DISALLOW

DISEASED HAMPERED

11 LETTERS COMMISERATE VACATIONING

THUMBS UP to the very kind gentleman at IGA in Peisley Street on the evening of March 21. At the register I discovered I was short two or three dollars and he o er pay for the remaining few items. I was so appreciative of his actions (and a bit embarrassed by it all). Thank you so much again!

THUMBS UP to the sta at the Spring Hill pub. Our social group had a Sunday roast there on the MArch 24 and it was delicious. The sta were very friendly and most welcoming. The pub is homely and a fire was blazing to add to the atmosphere. The prices were reasonable, plus the sticky date pudding was to die for! Well worth the drive out from Orange!

BIG THUMBS UP to my amazing neighbour Debbie for her care and concern and being brave enough to see if I was ok after seeing my car parked in the same spot for days. I was. Debbie and Margaret have restored my faith in humanity! What amazing people to bother checking !!!

THUMBS DOWN to inconsiderate smokers. I’ve been having chemotherapy and radiation recently and I’m tired of getting lungs full of cigarette smoke when I go outside after cancer treatment!

THUMBS DOWN to the chairs in the City Centre food court that make such an irritating noise on the tiles when pushed in. It’s a shame no one is able to lift them and put them in. Also that management can not come up with a solution like fitting rubber caps on the legs.

THUMBS UP to the churches of Orange for the splendid Orange Easter Festival in Robertson Park on Sunday. It was a delightful experience to enjoy lots of activities and the great puppet show featuring the famous “Trevor” and Jen, who shared the life-changing message of Jesus. Thanks to all involved.

THUMBS UP and a HUGE congratulations to the churches of Orange for funding, organising and running a great Easter Family Festival! What a great turnout. Your intentions to share what Easter is really about is appreciated.

THUMBS DOWN to real estate agents who place their ‘For Sale’ signs on the nature strips. Some are in dangerous positions. They are illegal. Councils in the past have issued warnings to agents.

THUMBS DOWN to the door knockers who ignored the obvious “No door knocking” sign on my front door last week.

MASSIV THUMBS DOWN to the bee clock at the council building. What a complete waste of NSW government grant money.

THUMBS UP to Kay at Leisure’s shoe store for her friendly and helpful service and advice when I was seeking to exchange a pair of shoes. Nothing was too much trouble for her.

THUMBS UP to Orange Library sta . Jack absolutely loves “Ten Minutes a Day, it’s such a great program they have going there.

THUMBS DOWN to the “Negative Nancys”who think the footpath and new guttering on Clergate road is a waste of money. Being an 80 km/h speed limit, it’s actually quite dangerous for pedestrians to walk and cycle along this stretch without a footpath. Guttering is essential to maintain the road from the water runo that made the road so bad in the first place!

THUMBS UP to the Orange City Council crew for removing the kapok from my street. It has been an exceptional year for this horrid stu , so thank you.

BIG THUMBS UP to Rackel and Jay from the Metro Pub. They helped me after a recent fall I had at night in Anson Street. Thank you for your concern and making sure I had a remarkable recovery.

HUGE THUMBS DOWN to the very rude woman at Woolies on Thursday, March 21, who started abusing a sta member for not helping her, when the sta member was already helping a man at the self-serve. She left her groceries and continued abusing the sta member. Shame on you, you’re not the only person that needs help.

THUMBS DOWN to people not crossing in groups at the pedestrian crossing outside Woolies in Anson Street.

BIG THUMBS UP to Dr Clair Wheelan and her sta at Central West Urology for their unwavering kindness and caring attitude when they looked after my mum. Your dedication to helping others when they need it most is greatly appreciated.

THUMBS DOWN to the rude man on Friday, March 22 who abused a trainee at O ceworks. I was standing in line to get photos printed, when I witnessed this aggressive man demanding he wanted to be served and won’t wait. The young woman explained she was a trainee and would call for assistance to help with his request, as she had not yet been fully trained to provide him with his requirements. While waiting for assistance, she asked him to step to one side so she could assist the other waiting customers. He refused and continued to be rude and demand she provide him with his requirements. I can’t believe the unkind treatment the young trainee endured.

MASSIVE THUMBS UP to Joy and Jane at the Woolworths North Orange, Their service and friendliness and happiness is always a pleasure to see and their service is amazing, always so helpful.

BIG THUMBS UP to Michelle at the Country Club for outstanding service, a wonderful smile and always having a drink ready!

MASSIVE THUMBS DOWN to Orange City Council for the footpaths in Park Street opposite Bowen Public School. The ground is so bumpy that it is a trip hazard for everyone, especially those of us who are grandparents and have to be careful where we step when walking.

THUMBS UP to the smiling delightful Michelle at ‘Home Sweet Home Living and Homewares’. Her exceptional care and absolute commitment to doing the best for her customers means we now have our dream bedroom suite. Thanks, Michelle! You’re one in a million!

Journalist, Jonathan Roe, accepts responsibility for election comment. Articles contain information of a general nature – readers should always seek professional advice relevant to their particular circumstances.

Complaints: Orange City Life has a policy of correcting mistakes promptly. If you have a complaint about published material, contact us in writing. If the matter remains unresolved, you may wish to contact the Australian Press Council.

© Copyright 2023 Orange City Life Pty Ltd. Copyright in all material – including photographs and ads – is held by Orange City Life Pty Ltd or its providers and must not be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the

Publisher. Printed for the publisher at the News Print Centre, 26-52 Hume Highway, Chullora 2190.

ODEON 5 MOVIE CLUB - $20 PER YEAR, AND ALL MOVIES (EX 3D) ARE THEN DISCOUNTED

THE FIRST OMEN

THUR 4 10.00, 3.15, 8.00 FRI 5 10.00, 3.15, 8.00

6 12.00, 3.15, 8.00

7 12.00, 3.15, 8.00

8 12.45, 3.00, 8.00 TUES 9 10.00, 3.15, 8.00

10 10.15, 3.00, 8.00

MONKEY MAN

THUR 4 12.45, 8.30

FRI 5 12.45,

GODZILLA V KONG

THE NEW EMPIRE

THUR 4 12.15*, 3.15*, 5.30*, 8.00*

FRI 5 12.15*, 3.15*, 5.30*, 8.00*

SAT 6 12.15*, 3.15*, 5.30*, 8.00*

7 12.15*, 3.15*, 5.30*, 8.15*

8 12.15*, 3.00*, 5.30*, 8.00* TUES 9 12.15*, 3.15*, 5.30*, 8.00*

10 12.15*, 3.00*, 5.30*, 8.00*

GHOSTBUSTERS

FROZEN EMPIRE

THUR 4 10.15, 12.45, 6.00*

FRI 5 10.15, 12.45, 6.00*

SAT 6 10.15, 12.45, 6.00*

SUN 7 10.15, 12.45, 6.00*

MON 8 10.00, 12.30, 6.00*

TUES 9 10.15, 12.45, 6.00*

10 10.00, 12.30, 6.00*

DUNE

THUR 4 10.15, 2.30*

FRI 5 10.15, 2.30*

SAT 6 10.15, 2.30*

SUN 7 10.15

MON 8 10.00*, 2.30*

TUES 9 10.15, 2.30*

10 10.00*, 2.30*