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Well, here we are at this me of the week again, but can you believe we are already almost halfway through the year? Crazy. There was even a discussion of Christmas holiday dates in the office this week!
I was saddened to hear about the fire destroying the restaurant at Borrodell on the weekend. My wife and I first paid a visit on a house-hun ng trip prior to moving to Orange and have enjoyed a number of special family occasions and gatherings out there since. The good news is that no one was harmed, and Gaye and the Borrodell team are already making arrangements to keep opera ng out of their SkyBar. I wish them all the best as they work to recover from this setback.
I recently had a chat with Peter Bilenkij of the Orange Rail Ac on Group. Peter and the group have spent the past 12 or 13 years figh ng for be er rail services for Orange, but are looking for a few younger members to join up. While progress has been made, Peter says there is s ll a lot to be done, but they will need people who can keep the fight for be er rail transport going ahead. If you are interested, you can read more about it inside.
The old Amoco Hall, now known as the
Orange Func on Centre, is celebra ng its 60th anniversary in 2025. Orange City Life stopped by last week for a li le celebra on put on by Orange City Council. It was great to look over some of the historic photos and memorabilia they had on display of past acts, like Normie Rowe, Col Joy, Li le Pa e, Johnny O’Keefe, and Billy Thorpe and the Aztecs. We understand that there is to be a show at the Ex-Services’ Club later this year, featuring a number of ‘old rockers’ who used to frequent the Amoco Hall stage and it sounds like it will draw a packed house.
Thank you to those who have sent in caramel slice recommenda ons for Emily Thompson a er her appeal in her last ‘The good-enough Parent’ column. She informs me that she is already ge ng stuck into her ‘research’ as she tries to find the very best local slice around. We did once try to run ‘Food Thumbs Up’ sec on in this magazine where people could give a shout-out to their top local burgers, fried favourites, bakery treats, etc., but it never really took off. Maybe if we start to get a few more food recommenda ons, we could try to bring it back. What do you think?
Un l next week!
Member of the Orange Rail Action Group with NSW Minister for Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison, Member for Orange Phil Donato, and Orange Mayor Tony Mileto, at the Orange Railway Station.
New generation of activists needed to push for better regional rail
By JONATHAN ROE
For more than a decade, a small group of dedicated local volunteers has been quietly working behind the scenes to improve rail services for the Colour City. While some progress has been made, there is s ll much, much more to be done, says Orange Rail Ac on Group Chairman, Dr Peter Bilenkij, who is now looking to recruit new members to keep the fight for be er rail going ahead.
“Because it’s something needs to be done. It’s a deficiency. The region needs regular transport,” says Dr Bilenkij, as to why he has spent 13 years agita ng for be er local rail services.
“I mean, if you go to somewhere like Germany, there’s a train from Bonn to Cologne every hour… people go down, do their business, and come back in the evening. So that’s the dynamic of what the West should have. You should have an op on of catching a train to Sydney or Dubbo, doing your work on the laptop, ge ng off to do your business, and then coming home.”
tend to Orange.
Through the group’s lobbying, Orange was able to get a connec ng rail coach, but they have never given up on pushing for a proper rail service depar ng and returning to Orange.
It was when the daily rail service from Bathurst, known as ‘Bathurst Bullet’ was announced in 2012, that the Orange Rail Ac on Group was formed. Their main mission then was to see the service ex-
The imminent replacement of the aging regional NSW rail fleet, and the government’s commitment of $2 million to inves gate the viability of stabling some of the fleet at Orange, means that dream is closer than ever, but Dr Bilenkij says
they now need younger members to take up the fight and keep the pressure on government.
“This government and the new minister are more agreeable to running the train out of Orange, but there are all sorts of hurdles to cross, not only financial, but staff, crewing, and stabling,” he said.
“And we’re now all in our late 70s, some are in our 80s. Our future is limited, and there’s a good 10 years ahead
of us to achieve the goals that Orange and the district deserve… so it is a job for keen, young re rees that have got some management skills, computer skills, personality skills, to link up with our local government and our state government and keep the project going ahead.”
Then there’s the longer-term dream of comple ng trackwork to shorten the trip between Orange and Bathurst, which currently takes 70 minutes.
“To straighten out the serious curves would take maybe 300 or 400 million dollars to do… but these are the sort of things that the community has to agitate for and we need younger fresh members, who have either re red or have me to meet regularly and face the minister, to have a photo taken at the sta on, all that sort of stuff,” Dr Bilenkij said.
“We’re looking for younger people who can carry on the project for the next term.”
The Orange Rail Ac on Group meets weekly for coffee at the Duntryleague G olf Club on Tuesday mornings at 10 am. Any interested persons are welcome to a end, or you can contact Neil Jones by phone on 0419 224 461 or email neilrjones46@gmail.com
Members of the Orange Trout Acclimatisation Society: Rod Evans, David Graham, Rodney Tonkin, and Barry Darley, welcome the start of fl y and lure fi shing at Spring Creek Dam.
Spring Creek Dam now open for fly and lure fishing
By JONATHAN ROE
Local anglers can now cast a line at Spring Creek Dam for the very first me as Orange City Council opens up the reservoir for fly and lure fishing.
Fishing was previously banned at Spring Creek dam due to its design as part of Orange’s water supply, and poten al water quality problems.
But in August, 2024, a er years of debate, council resolved to allow fishing in the 4680-megalitre capacity dam, working with NSW Fisheries on a plan to manage risks to the water supply.
Bait fishing will not be allowed at Spring Creek Dam, and ar ficial fly and lure fishing will be allowed only in a signposted 300-metre “fishing zone”. Neither wading nor entering the water is permi ed, so fishing must be done from shore.
Fisheries’ rangers will be making patrols of the area to ensure these condions are adhered to.
“Spring Creek Dam is a key component
of Orange’s water supply, so it’s crucial we manage any poten al risks when it comes to water quality,” said Orange Mayor Tony Mileto, who is pleased to see the dam open for fly and lure fishing.
“Orange City Council sees the need to develop op ons like this for local anglers and we’ve been working with Fisheries NSW in recent months to sort through the prac cali es,” Cr Mileto con nued.
“We’re pleased that this project has been supported by the NSW Government’s Fisheries department. Their rangers will be doing rou ne patrols to check compliance with regula ons, so it’s important they were involved in setng it up.”
Spring Creek Dam has been stocked with Golden Perch, Rainbow Trout, and Murray Cod produced at state hatcheries and there are, of course, plenty of Redfin and Carp also present in the dam.
But Rodney Tonkin of the Orange Trout Acclima sa on Society believes that allowing angler access will help even-up the odds for our na ve fish.
“This dam is chock-a-block full of Redfin, a pest fish which breeds extraordinarily fast. What we are now trying to do introduce na ve fish such as Murray Cod and Golden Perch which will predate on them,” he said.
“We will never get rid of them, but it is a ma er of thinning them out and we can do that through recrea onal fishing.”
To get to the fishing zone, anglers can park at the dam entrance at the southern end of Lone Pine Avenue (vehicle access is not permi ed), and walk the 1.5 kilometres to the designated area.
NSW Fisheries staff have erected signs at the dam which spell out the exact loca on.
Barry Darley throws a line in at Spring Creek Dam.
Orange’s Amoco Hall turns 60!
By JONATHAN ROE
The old Amoco Hall, now known as the Orange Func on Centre, is celebra ng its 60th anniversary in 2025.
The facility opened its doors on June 10, 1965, having been conceived and built by volunteers following a massive community fundraising effort.
In the past 60 years, the funcon centre has hosted some renowned bands and performers including the Easybeats, Normie Rowe, Col Joy, Li le Pa e, Johnny O’Keefe, Billy Thorpe and the Aztecs, Ray Brown and the Whispers, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Cold Chisel and, recently, Tones & I.
It also hosted the welcome to Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip when they visited Orange in April 1970.
For locals, the hall has also been the venue for countless concerts, balls, theatre shows, eisteddfods, civic recep ons, conferences, award presenta ons, exhibi ons, weddings, gradua ons and dances
over the years.
Last week, Orange councillors, council staff and guests held a small celebra on to mark the occasion, with historical items and photos on display and a cake cutng by Orange Mayor Tony Mileto and long- me caretaker of the Orange Func on Centre, John Harvey.
Cr Mileto shared some of his own memories of the old hall and said it is a special place for genera-
ons of families in Orange.
“I think what is special about this place is the fact that it is built by the people of Orange,” Cr Mileto said.
“They got together and they realised that we didn’t have a building in which to celebrate their special occasions... they got together, they put their hard work, their money and everything into it, and they gave us what we’ve got today.
“We never want it to disappear because it holds some really special memories for many of us here today and our rela ves.”
Cr Mileto also gave a special thanks to John Harvey, caretaker of the func on centre for 58 years, who received a round of applause from those at the celebra on.
“One of my first memories of coming to Orange back in 1977 was mee ng a bloke who I’ve had a great friendship with over a period of me, John Harvey,” Cr Mileto said. “You are as special as what this place is and I’m really glad that you are able to be here today.... John, thank you for everything you have done. This is your day.”
DIANE DAVIS
The debut of Stomp City, Orange’s major weekend night of entertainment for many years.
Orange Mayor Tony Mileto and long-serving caretaker John Harvey cutting the cake at the anniversary celebration.
Normie Rowe at the Orange Function Centre in the 1960s.
Long-serving caretaker John Harvey shares a few stories of his 58-years at the Orange Function Centre.
PEOPLE OF O-TOWN
Dale Lee
Mother
of three boys, dedicated classroom teacher, and hardworking registrar at Orange Ex-Services Soccer Club (who grew up playing hockey, not soccer).
By EMILY THOMPSON •
What do you do for a living and what do you love about it?
I’m a year one teacher at Orange Primary School, I’ve been teaching for 22 years. I love working with young children, just seeing the progress they make with reading is fantas c. When you have a young person who’s struggling with reading, and giving them the skills to then pick up a book and feel confident –I just love that! Reading is my really big thing that I enjoy teaching, so that’s my favourite part of my job. What fi lls your cup?
I love ge ng out and walking. I love walking around our family property, just to take some me out from work and take me for myself. I try and walk every day, even when it’s snowing, raining, I take the umbrella out in the snow and walk. You can get very closed in with these four walls in a classroom so ge ng out and enjoying fresh air is fantas c. Where is you favourite quiet spot in Orange?
I actually love my parent’s house, being out on their property they have. I grew up right near Mount Canobolas, so I love being able to see the mountain. They’ve got a beau ful area out the back that’s perfect to just sit out there and look up at the mountain.
Describe your ideal day out with unlimited time and budget?
I’m pre y boring- my ideal day out that we used to do a lot when
LLOYD
the kids were younger is just putng the kids in the car and just driving in a different direc on around Orange. So, you get up and just think- will I go North? South? West? Which way are we gonna go today? And then you just discover new areas here. I’ve lived in Orange my whole life, and driven on the same roads my whole life, and then you can think, well I’ve never driven down this way before, so let’s try that today. Throw in lunch with my family at one of the small pubs, like Lucknow, and that’s my ideal day out for me.
What is your greatest accomplishment and what did it take for you to get there?
Well, I was going to say my children because I am so very proud of them and just seeing my three boys grow into decent young men is a really proud achievement for me. My greatest achievement in my career would probably just be ge ng to the end of the year and seeing the progress that a child has made. Kids love to come back and they s ll come up to you and give you a big hug or they say, “You’re my favourite teacher Mrs Lee”, and every me that happens, I think “Yeah, I made a difference in that child’s life” so that’s a huge accomplishment for me.
If you were running for Mayor, what would your campaign slogan be?
“Orange, why would you want to be anywhere else?
Broad Vision Honest Service
Photo by TOM
Celebrity chef Matt Moran serves up high praise for Wenty’s “Perfect Plate”
By JONATHAN ROE
“I love the stuffing, it feels like it’s Christmas me!” declared celebrated chef and restaurateur Ma Moran at the Wentworth Golf Club on Wednesday.
Moran, the chef behind some of Australia’s best-known fine dining restaurants, was touring the region as the ambassador for the Perfect Plate compe on, the annual search for the best club meals in NSW.
On the menu at Wenty was a Trunkey Creek pork roulade filled with local charred apples, walnuts, apricot and wilted spinach with dukkha spiced pumpkin,
asparagus and smoked apple jus.
The dish was created by The Wentworth Orange Chef de Par e Jack Clion, alongside Head Chef Nicole Dews, both of whom are passionate about suppor ng local producers and showcasing the incredible ingredients available in our region.
“Our dish showcases what we believe is the best pork available: 100 per cent local, hormone-free Trunkey Creek pork. It’s paired beau fully with locally sourced apples to create a balanced blend of sweet, savoury, and all-round deliciousness,” Drews said.
“One of our members even told us it was the best meal he’d eaten in Orange in a very long me!”
While Moran was full of praise for the tenderness and textures of the dish, it’s the opinions of local diners that truly ma er as it is their scores that determine who has served up the “perfect plate”.
The clubs with the highest average score at the end of the compe on will be crowned the winners in their respecve award categories. There will be a winner in each region, three overall state-wide winners (based on membership size), a winner in the dessert category, and a winner in the pizza category.
Judging for the 2025 Perfect Plate closed on Sunday and the winning clubs/ dishes will be announced at a special awards night on Tuesday, July 15.
Building better
This program invests in the regions hosting renewable energy infrastructure,
Celebrated chef and restaurateur Matt Moran with Chef de Partie Jack Clifton at the Wentworth Golf Club last week.
The Wentworth Orange entry in the 2025 ‘Perfect Plate’ competition: Trunkey Creek Pork Roulade made with local ingredients.
Men’s Health Month 2025
I recently delivered a Notice of Motion in the NSW Parliament to formally acknowledge Men’s Health Month, noting that:
• Men account for around 75% of suicide deaths in Australia.
• Up to 25% of Australian men will experience a diagnosed mental health disorder in their lifetime.
• Only one in four seek professional help. I’ve called on the NSW Government to do more to reduce stigma and support initiatives that empower men to speak up, seek help, and prioritise their wellbeing.
As part of this month’s efforts, I dropped into the Orange Men’s Shed, who recently hosted a fantastic Men’s Health Week event in partnership with Mission Australia, Cancer Council, RAMHP, and our hardworking Prostate Nurse Lindy Ostini.
The event included health checks and a community BBQ — a great initiative that reflects the power of grassroots health promotion. Well done to all involved.
Australians aged 50 and over receive a free Bowel Cancer Home Test Kit in the mail every two years
— but too often, it goes unused.
Bowel cancer is one of the most treatable cancers when caught early. This simple home test has already saved countless lives. If you or someone you know has received a kit — don’t ignore it. Taking a few minutes today could add years to your life.
Your health matters. Let’s keep the conversation going and take action — for ourselves, our families, and our communities.
Phil DONATO MP
State Member for Orange
Palliative Care Expansion
It's great to see work getting under way for the expanded palliative care beds at Orange Health Service, and I'm looking forward to this project now taking shape.
MEET THE YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS BEHIND LITTLE KEYCHAIN CO.
Freya Norrie, Nicolette Saran, and Honor McCardell from Mr Winston West’s Year 9 commerce class at Kinross Wolaroi School are the creative force behind Little Keychain Co. — and they’re already making waves.
While most students are waiting for the assignment to officially begin next term, this impressive team has already sold over 100 handmade keychains in just one week!
What sets them apart? Instead of following the crowd with food-based products, these young entrepreneurs chose a stylish, practical alternative — and they’re making a difference. With 30% of profits going to Cancer Council NSW, they’re showing how business can be both innovative and impactful.
Supporting Inclusive Education and Innovation at Anson Street School
It’s always a pleasure to catch up with Hugh Rasmussen, Assistant Principal – Business Innovation at Anson Street School. Hugh is a passionate advocate for inclusive education and a driving force behind creating real-world opportunities for students with diverse learning needs.
Community feedback has helped inform the design, ensuring patient bedrooms have a home-like feel with access to plenty of natural light and fresh air. The palliative care expansion will also provide patient privacy and space for visiting families, including communal indoor and outdoor areas.
Why I Voted Against the Workers Compensation Amendment Bill 2025
Last week, I voted against the NSW Government’s Workers Compensation Legislation Amendment Bill 2025. As someone who has worked in both the public and private sectors—and as the son of small business owners—I understand the complex balance between supporting injured workers and maintaining a sustainable compensation system.
While I support the need for reform and acknowledge the financial pressures on the current scheme, I could not support one key element of this Bill: the proposal to raise the threshold for Whole Person Impairment (WPI) for psychological injuries from 15% to over 30%. This change would make it significantly harder for many psychologically injured workers to access extended support, including weekly payments beyond five years. In good conscience, I could not vote for legislation that would leave some of the most vulnerable injured workers without adequate care or protection.
Australia Post Community Grants – Supporting Mental Health & Connection
One of the school’s standout initiatives is its school-run vineyard, developed in partnership with renowned winemaker Philip Shaw Wines. What began as a hands-on learning project has grown into something remarkable — with their wines reaching shelves at Dan Murphy’s in Orange, Bathurst and Katoomba, and even making it onto the NSW Parliament wine list.
As someone who has long advocated for better mental health support in our region, I’m pleased to share that Australia Post’s 2025 Community Grants program is now open, offering up to $10,000 for local projects that improve mental wellbeing and strengthen community connection.
This is a fantastic opportunity for not-for-profit groups doing meaningful work—especially in disaster-affected areas, where additional funding is available.If you're involved with a local organisation making a difference, or know one that is, I encourage you to apply.
Applications close: 7 July 2025
More information: auspost.com.au/grants
Let’s continue to support the programs that keep our communities connected, resilient, and mentally well.
Welcoming the Future Leaders of the Central
This is a fantastic example of how schools can empower students through enterprise, creativity, and community collaboration. I’ll continue to advocate for programs like this that promote learning beyond the classroom and build confidence and skills for life.
twasapleasuretohostthe2025TEN4TENFuture
It was a pleasure to host the 2025 TEN4TEN Future Leaders from Regional Development Australia Central West during their recent visit to NSW Parliament.
This outstanding program pairs Year 11 students from schools across Orange, Blayney, and Cabonne with local mentors to inspire leadership and community engagement. The students toured Australia’s oldest Parliament and observed Question Time in the Legislative Assembly — a great opportunity to see democracy in action. Programs like TEN4TEN play a vital role in empowering our region’s young people to lead with purpose and confidence.
SUNDAY 6TH JULY
FROM 11:30AM - 2:00PM
70th NSW Western Region Training Awards
I recently attended the 70th NSW Western Region Training Awards for excellence in vocational education at the Ian Armstrong Building, Orange. Recognising talented students excelling in VET and enhancing their career opportunities. Good luck to all the winners who will now progress to the NSW state finals.
The Year of Toys: Record entries for 2025 Waste 2 Art competition
By JONATHAN ROE
From a plush armchair made enrely of teddy bears to a patchwork crocodile and oversized Barbie doll box, this year’s Waste 2 Art Compe on has seen a record number of local ar sts show the crea ve poten al of materials that would otherwise end up in landfill.
The Sims Metal Waste 2 Art is a community event that is open to all councils in the NetWaste region, which aims to challenge people’s percep ons about ‘rubbish’ and celebrate the reuse and recycling of waste through arts and cra s.
This year’s compe on is the largest ever held in Orange, with
more than 100 entries of crea ve works made from reused and recycled waste material, with the theme for 2025 being ‘The Year of Toys’.
Orange City Council’s Environmental Sustainability Community Commi ee Chair, Councillor David Mallard, encourages the community to come along to this year’s exhibi on at the Orange City Library.
“Every year, imagina ons run wild as aspiring and professional ar sts, school students and community groups give rubbish a new lease of life as a work of art,” Cr Mallard said.
“I encourage everyone to come along and see the innova ve ways ar sts have taken waste and turned
it into art and take a moment to consider how they too can reuse and recycle items that would normally end up in landfill.”
Members of the public can get involved by cas ng a vote for their favourite artwork in the People’s Choice compe on. But you better be quick and vo ng closes on Friday.
The winning entries will be announced at the official presenta on at 5.30pm on Friday June 20 at Orange City Library.
The winners will progress to the regional Waste 2 Art compe on, which will be held at the Western Plains Cultural Centre in Dubbo from September 20, 2025.
Local entries in the Sims Metal Waste 2 Art Competition will be on display at the Orange City Library until June 27. The winning entries will be announced this Friday.
Discover 7 unforgettable multi-day walks across NSW’s most breathtaking landscapes, from pristine coastline to ancient rainforests and alpine peaks. Find your path on a NSW Great Walk.
nswparks.info/nswgreatwalks
Tomaree Coastal Walk
Photo: Daniel Parsons/DCCEEW.
THE GOOD ENOUGH PARENT WITH EMILY THOMPSON Survival fi est Survival fi est
Survival of the fi est | The Good Enough Parent
My psychologist is helping me find strategies to deal with being overwhelmed in the mornings. She has suggested mindfulness, deep breathing and a quick burst of exercise such as a few laps around the backyard for the dopamine hit.
Firstly, I might be mistaken but I’m reasonably sure there are be er ways to get dopamine, e.g. chocolate, hugging my border collie and other, more fun ways of ge ng your cardio in.
She also reminded me that she’s an oncology-specific counsellor and maybe I’d benefit from a more generalised session if cancer is no longer my primary area of concern. She clearly doesn’t have school-aged kids if she thinks that my illness was at any point more stressful than ge ng two kids out the door by 8.45am.
Case in point, Thursday morning.
6.58am: Miss 16 appears at my door and tells me she feels sick and needs to stay home. I remind her that days off
school aren’t for colds, par cularly ones without any visible symptoms, and hug her in bed. I tell her I’ll pick her up from school in the a ernoon, and she can accompany me to my a ernoon work appointments, and on the weekend, we’ll spend Saturday morning together. She hugs me and I feel like a great mum, because the ktok I watched yesterday reminded me teens need connec on over correc on. I hug her back then tell her I’ll wake the kraken.
7.10am: I venture into Miss 10’s room and wake her up. I’ll spare you the details due to word count and space restric ons in the paper, but it involves two stories being read, a ques on about who she should email to complain about the noisy bin collec on, an argument about why the term brontosaurus is wrong, and 23 minutes of my life I’m not ge ng back.
7.33am: Miss 16 is dressed, has eaten her breakfast and is helping me pack lunches. Miss 10 wanders through the house in her dressing gown and looks for the jar of Nutella I hid in a bid to improve our diets. I’m too busy to care this
morning, as I spent yesterday a ernoon baking for a charity sale and I s ll have to package everything up. I throw Mars Bar slice in lunchboxes along with carefully cut up veggie s cks, salad wraps sliced like sushi rolls and mandarins that won’t be eaten.
7.45am: I ask Miss 10 to please pass me the s cky tape from her cra drawers, as I have a complete breakdown trying to assemble the slice boxes I bought from Temu. Unfortunately, this reminds her that we have cra drawers, and she pulls out her diamond art, immediately dropping it and spilling 3000 pink jewels throughout the living room.
8.20am: Miss 10 is dressed, bags are packed, slices are boxed and most of the diamonds have been picked up. Miss 16 feeds the animals and I ask Miss 10 to put the s cky tape away.
8.25am: Miss 10 emerges from her room, having used the s cky tape to create fake nails, and explains that most of them are oval-shaped, but two are coffin-shaped because she likes the sharp finish. I nod, pretending to know what she’s talking about, and briefly
wonder if I should care about the shape of my nails.
8.31am: Miss 10 again emerges from her room, this me with the overwhelming stench of cheap, toxic nail polish wa ing a er her. “How do I get nail polish out of my school jumper?” she asks.
8.32am: I a empt to do my deep breathing exercises as my Apple Watch messages me to warn me of an episode of tachycardia.
8.42am: Nail polish has been cleared up, kids are in the car and I’m even on me to make it out to the lake for a quick walk before work. I look exhausted and harried, but I feel somewhat smug about my incredible accomplishment of surviving the morning rela vely unscathed.
8.59am: I arrive at the lake, and bask in the winter sun and take a lovely, deep, mindful breath.
9.00am: I get a call from the school office because Miss 10 forgot to put shoes on and is wearing slippers. Can I pick her up please?
Bletchington Public School
A strong start for lifelong learning
Bletchington Public School warmly welcomes new families for 2026 Kindergarten enrolments.
supported as they begin their schooling journey:
Engagement Interviews – Assess school where needed.
Strong Start Library Sessions (Term 3) –5-week program focused on early literacy and numeracy through play.
–
Learning at Bletchington – Kindergarten to Year 6
Our curriculum builds strong academic wellbeing and resilience.
Core Learning Areas Include:
•English & Literacy – From early and comprehension.
•
•Science & Technology – Hands-on learning encouraging curiosity and
•
• dance and drama foster expression
•
•
• tutorials with professional musicians; Beginner to Senior Band.
•Dance & Choir – Performances at
•Drama & Theatre – Annual
•
• house sports.
• Year 2 has their own laptop; all screens.
Student Wellbeing & Support
“Working together through
framework.
Wellbeing Focus mindfulness and resilience programs. Support Services
Support.
– Small group or learners.
Our school is a place where children family to Bletchington Public School!
Bletchington Public School – Working Community
Myth and Legend in Shadow Theatre
From ancient stories to modern innovations
The alleyways of Cairo were once inhabited by living shadows. This ancient art form, known as khayal al-zill, has been translated as Arabic for shadow theatre, but it is more accurately the ‘theatre of the imagina on’, says Dr Sam Bowker, Associate Professor in Art History and Visual Culture at Charles Sturt University.
Beyond developing Australia’s leading ‘Islamic art and design’ subject for university students, Dr Bowker has curated diverse interna onal exhibi ons and published widely on the history of khayamiya (Egyp an tentmaker appliqué).
He is also the founder of the Green Beetle Company in Wagga Wagga, reviving and adap ng ancient Arabic shadow theatre performance and storytelling for modern audiences.
“Our experimental concert ‘Thief of Stars’ was developed as a reinvenon of this heritage, asking, ‘What if Aladdin and Faust were the same story?’,” says Dr Bowker, who will be in Orange next week to give a lecture on the global history of shadow puppetry as part of the Orange and District ArtsNa onal lecture series. In this unique presenta on for ArtsNa onal, Dr Bowker introduces the cra and performance tradi ons
of shadow puppetry from across the world; from historic wayang kulit to the contemporary innova ons of Manual Cinema, and Australian puppeteer Richard Bradshaw.
Learn about the rarely-seen history of one of the world’s oldest and most mysterious art forms – the uncanny shadows that preceded both photography and television – which con nue to dance today.
In Orange Dr Bowker will perform ‘The Flea’, a new story he has wri en with Peter Hough, based on three medieval Arabic manuscripts: The Book of Charlatans; The Wonders of Crea on and Oddi es of Existence by Al-Qazwini; and the Merits of the Plague. Award-winning coloratura soprano Melinda Bowker lends her voice to the shadow puppets in ‘The Flea’, which was recently performed at the Chau Chak Wing Museum at the University of Sydney.
“It’s a show, audiences have described as, What if Aliens vs Predator rhymed?” jokes Dr Bowker.
Experience ‘Myth and Legend in Shadow Theatre’ presented by Dr Sam Bowker at Holy Trinity Church Hall on Wednesday, June 25, 6pm for 6.30pm start. Cost $30. For further enquiries, please email Ellen Fisher: rosemont.fisher@bigpond. com
Everyone has a gift. And at TAFE NSW, we want to help you find yours with hands-on, practical learning and hundreds of affordable courses to choose from.
Enrol now for Semester 2, 2025
Art historian and puppeteer Dr Sam Bowker and his wife, Melinda, an award-winning coloratura soprano who lends her voice to the shadow puppets.
In this unique upcoming lecture, art historian Dr Sam Bowker will introduce the global history of shadow puppetry, from ancient stories to the innovations of Australian puppeteer Richard Bradshaw.
PERSONALISED, COMPASSIONATE AND RELIABLE IN HOME CARE
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•Complex nursing support
•Personal care and support care
•Domestic, cleaning, shopping and transport
•Home and maintenance
•Home Care Package (Level 1 – 4)
You can rely on us to be there when we say we will and to have the same friendly familiar faces support you
Orange Symphony Orchestra performs classical pieces that have fired filmmakers’ imaginations
By JONATHAN ROE
On Sunday, June 29, the Orange Symphony Orchestra is excited to return to the stage at Kinross Wolaroi School and bring you an a ernoon of stunning classical music featured in some of cinema’s greatest films.
Once again led by the fabulous guest conductor Monica Buckland, the Orange Symphony Orchestra will take you on a journey through the classical masterpieces that have graced the silver screen.
“We are excited to welcome conductor Monica Buckland back to Orange for a concert full of everyone’s favourite film music,” said Orange Symphony Orchestra president Robin Thompson.
“It’s all classical music this me. Last year’s ‘At the Movies’ we did more modern music, but this is where film producers or directors have used classical music they know in films like Titanic and so many others.”
The performance will include music by Johann Strauss Jr., Beethoven, Mozart, Verdi, Mascagni, Mussorgsky and Massenet.
“We are so lucky to have Anne Stevens on piano playing the beau ful Mo-
zart melody from ‘Elvira Madigan’ and our wonderful Lorraine Moxey will perform the gorgeous violin solo by Massenet, ‘Medita on from Thais’, which appeared in the film Titanic,” Robin said.
“We are also thrilled to welcome to the stage at Kinross Wolaroi, harpist
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear the talented Orange Symphony Orchestra perform some of the greatest classical music behind cinema’s greatest classics.
Experience Classic At the Movies on Sunday, June 29, at Derek Pigot Auditorium, Kinross Wolaroi School. Arrive 2pm for a 2.30pm start.
Book your cket at Humani x, events. humani x.com/classics-at-the-movies
Irene Renaud-Assemat, and our very own first violin of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Alex Norton!”
Orange Symphony Orchestra’s Anne Stevens will perform the Mozart melody from ‘Elvira Madigan’ at Classics at the Movies on June 29.
The Orange Symphony Orchestra is in rehearsals ahead of Classics at the Movies later this June.
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ART REVIEW
By John Daly, Gallery Technician
Ros Auld returns to the Orange Regional Gallery
Orange Regional Gallery (ORG) is excited to be working again with local ceramic ar st Ros Auld on her new exhibi on of sculptural work, ‘INSIGHT: Figure and Landscape’. Known across Australia for her richly-textured vessels and ceramic sculptures that embody both the strength and fragility of the Australian landscape, Auld is one of our region’s most accomplished ar sts.
Her previous show at ORG, Adventures in Ceramics, was presented in 2019 and was a comprehensive survey of her 40-year career. That exhibi on celebrated her versa lity, inven veness, and collabora ve approach to working with clay.
In this new series of sculptural works, Auld con nues her explora on of the Australian landscape, but with an emphasis on the human figure within it. By integra ng clay with found-metal artefacts, she examines the co-evolu on of the landscape and its inhabitants, crea ng a conversa on between material, experience and place.
Working out of her studio at Borenore, Auld allows the surrounding landscape, as well as journeys across Australia, to inform her work. In ad-
di on to exploring the landforms and geological textures, she is equally fascinated by the human experience within landscape.
As curator of this new exhibi on, I have been fascinated to observe the evolu on of her new works, and have enjoyed working with the artist on the placement of the sculptures in the Edwards Gallery in a way that presents the unfolding of her ideas.
Please join us for the opening of the exhibi on from 6pm on Friday, June 20, by Peter Haynes, curator, arts writer and art historian.
I will be in conversa on with Ros Auld in the Gallery Theatre from 5:30pm, prior to the opening. We will discuss Ros’ unique approach to her most recent works, in rela on to her decades-long career.
Bookings for the talk are essen al. Please visit ORG’s Eventbrite page or contact the gallery on 02 6392 8136.
This exhibi on opens alongside Mighty Minds / Mega Machines, and will run un l August 24.
Ros Auld in her studio at Borenore. PHOTO: JOHN DALY.
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Situated in a sought-a er neighbourhood, 33 Franklin Road is conveniently located close to local schools, parks, an easy stroll to the town pool and Orange Bowling Club and nearby to popular walking paths. Enjoy the vibrant community atmosphere that Orange has to o with easy access to recrea onal facili es, primary school the CBD. Zoned for Orange High School, Agent’s Details: PRD ORANGE, Scott Munro 0428 650 675
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If you are thinking of buying or selling property, need a Will, or would like to update your existing Will or Power of Attorney, then call me for a chat or send me an email to discuss your situation
DIANE DAVIS
LILO & STITCH
D S
Kids Talk
Name and age: Hugh, 8
Who is your favourite teacher? Ms Winters, because she’s a good principal that she helps out the school.
What is something that makes you really, really happy? My cat socks! What’s your favourite thing to do on the weekend? Play with one of my friends, we call each other and play games.
If you were principal for a day, what’s the first thing you’d do? A writing lesson with the kids. I’d get them to write about cats. What is your favourite food? Sushi- I like avocado and chicken the best
What’s your favourite thing to do at school? Sport. I like Tennis and basketball.
What do you think the most important job in the world is? Being the Mayor, because you control the city and you make money top help the homeless.
If you could open a shop, what would it sell? Crystals and geodes.
If you could have a superpower, what would it be? Superspeed, I’d go to the whole world’s cats and dogs.
FAREWELL TO MARGARET AFTER 37 YEARS WITH LOWES ORANGE
By CEC TILBURG
Friends and colleagues from Lowes in Orange gathered to farewell their long- me coworker Margaret Williams on Saturday, June 14, as she celebrated her re rement a er an incredible 37 years with the company.
It was a hear elt evening with memories, laughter, and well-wishes, as those who worked alongside Margaret reflected on her dedica on, hard work and warm presence over the years.
While she will no doubt be missed by the team, Margaret is looking forward to spending more me with her family and friends and enjoying a well-earned re rement.
Wishing you all the best in this next chapter, Margaret!
MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL ROADSHOW
By JONATHAN ROE
Orange locals braved a cold on Friday the 13th evening to enjoy a night of laughs at the Orange Civic Theatre as the Melbourne Interna onal Comedy Fes-
val Roadshow rolled into town. Now in its 27th year, the Roadshow line-up featured comedians Jake Howie, Ben Kochan, Bronwyn Kuss, Ting Lim, and Zack Dyer.
Margaret with her co-workers from Lowes Orange.
Sherie Coppack and Emma Rodwell.
Denise Oborn, Fionia Jones, and Margaret Williams.
Daryn and Denise Oborn.
Michelle and Mark Dunn.
Allan Coppack, Lisa Venner, and Michelle Dunn.
Orange Symphony Orchestra
reception@oclife.com.au Have something of interest to share?
Conducted by Monica Buckland presents
CLASSICS AT THE MOVIES
Soloists: Anne Stevens and Lorraine Moxey
Sunday 29 June 2025
CROSS purposes
HOW I BECAME A CHRISTIAN Steve Peterson
I lived in Beijing during high school. The embassy cars would often get dirty in the city. Once I thought it was funny to write some messages into the dirt, ‘wash me for Christmas’ etc.
Unfortunately my message was permanently engraved into the car by the acidic dust! As part of my punishment I had to spend the cost of the repair on lentils and baby bottle sterilisers for an orphanage in Mongolia run by an Australian Buddhist nun. I ultimately visited twice and volunteered at the orphanage for 2 weeks. During that time an orphan died after being kicked by a horse as she could not access medical care.
The injustice of this was challenging for a 15-year-old. The only satisfying answer was that there was a God who was as sad and frustrated as I was. A God who is ultimately sovereign and will return to make a just world without such suffering.
My faith started there and is more sophisticated now, but at its core would still be that 15 year old seeking that world without injustice and suffering promised by Jesus. If you have a Christian friend, try asking them their story as to why they follow Christ.
The last few months have been volames for investors because of Doner gun approach to s. For those who don’t need to be rement savings any me soon, these ups and downs don’t mean much in the short term. However. it’s a different story for those looking to re re soon or have recently re red.
There is a period before and a er re rement called the re rement risk zone... it’s a dangerous place!
It is typically considered to be the five years either side of re rement. This decade is when most people’s re rement savings reach their peak and start being accessed.
O en people work hard to squirrel away as much as possible in their last few years of their working life. Then, once they re re, they gradually draw down on their re rement savings to
If you have any questions you would like answered, ideas for articles, or would like to find out more about Jesus click this QR code
Are You In The Retirement Risk Zone?
fund their lifestyle.
It’s in the re rement risk zone where if not planned for, unexpected events could derail your re rement. If there is a sharemarket crash, an emergency or an unexpected life event, the results could be something that cause so much damage they can’t be recovered from financially.
That’s because it’s worse having a bad performing year when you have more money than when you have less.
As re rement savings go down over me, as they are being used to fund rerement, a bad year a long way into rerement will have a much smaller impact. At that point, the balance impacted is lower and there are also not as many years le to fund, meaning the money may be quite conserva vely invested by that stage. If you’re a long way out from re rement, you may be more aggres-
sively invested to pursue higher returns, which is fine as there are plenty of years for recovery before the money needs to be accessed.
In recent months we saw a fall in sharemarkets around the world but then things recovered quickly, so no damage was done (at least for now) by Trump’s tariff s. But if you’re in the re rement risk zone or approaching it, don’t waste another minute... let’s get on top of things now, before the next large fall leaves you exposed!
Unfortunately, if things go badly during the re rement risk zone, the potenal fixes are o en things people would rather avoid! It may mean having to delay re rement and work longer, live on less in re rement and therefore have a lesser lifestyle, or having to invest in more risky assets to try and make up the shor all. None of these are great solu ons.
There are different ways to approach the re rement risk zone. Adjustments can be made to how re rement savings are invested in the lead up to re rement, money can be saved and invested into more conserva ve assets to build up a stockpile or it could be a combina on of these.
Whichever way you look at it, approaching re rement and then re ring is not something you want to do without a plan to navigate the re rement risk zone. You’ll have worked too hard to want to leave your en re re rement exposed.
These are not things that need to be feared, they just need to be managed and you may only get one shot at it. Don’t leave your re rement to chance, steer clear of danger and re re on purpose!
Smart financial decisions o en come from having a sensible and well thought out financial plan. Yell out if you’d like help with yours from an independent financial adviser.
SPORTSCAM
SPORTSNEWS
Tenpin Bowling HEAD PIN
with Bob Taylor
lic holiday, and these stars were Khye Downey from the Wednesday 7.30pm league with 147 over average, followed by Brock Gallagher from the Thursday 7.30pm league with 112 over average, and finally Verona Gavin from the Thursday 9.45am league with 110 over average for the series.
Star bowler for the Week and winner of the Auto Wash compliments of Race Track Car Wash was Khye Downey who scored that great 147 over average for the series.
I was unable to locate a High Roller champion so the three free games cannot be awarded, but there were plenty trying hard, among them being Michelle Carroll 200, Steve McConnell 210, Alan Lickiewicz 216, Blake Frecklington 223, Jayden Christoff 257, Ken McLachlan 210, Nathaniel Mason 236, Travis McMahon 256, Steve Eslick 212, Khye Downey 202, Ma Woodham 234, Steven McConnell 211 and Brock Gallagher 215.
Also having a go were Sam Benne 231, Tori Downey 206, Greg Shapter 200, David Quinlan 212, Verona Gavin 206, Steve Grabham 206, Barry Archer 222, Marilyn Schwenke 202 and Jack Webb 236.
The Almost Made it Hero and winner of the open order from Kings Takeaway at Greengate was Lachlan Andreas who scored 183 (PB).
Others feeling the pangs of hunger included Felicity Moller 146, Tyson Morris 176, Dave Duncan 171. Michael Dunworth 157, Gypsy Marley 120, Lani Gouge a pair of 165s, Rachel Sorrenson 162, Callum Reilly 109 (PB), Charley Thorley 171, Lucas Budd 153 (PB)
and Taylor Clark 195.
Not to be ignored there was Connor Peate 97, Helen Newling 168, Warren Taylor 181, Lucas Grabham 134, Tiani Crear 140, Landon Bevan 126 (PB), Steven Randell 148 (PB), Craig Bu ler 122, Sco Jones 178, Ashleigh Maw 168 and Jason Kelly 191.
Others trying even harder included Robert Morris 151, Chelsea McLennan 123, Ma Lawson 156, Alex Gaeta 185, Gary James 180, Geoff Thomas 167, Garry Hilderbrandt 164, Evan Vietch 157, Karen Anderson 145 and Jacob Southwell 181.
Junior of the week and winner of the free game compliments of the Tenpin Bowl was Lucas Budd whose score of 153 (PB) was 59 over average.
The second Female of Note for June and next in line hoping to get hold of the gi cer ficate from MJ’s All HairAll Occasions was Verona Gavin whose score of 206 was 60 over average and part of her 110 over average for the series.
The second Man of the Moment for June and next in the queue hoping for the voucher from Guys Cuts was Khye Downey whose score of 202 was 58 over average and part of his 147 over average for the series for which he has been recognised.
Orange City Women’s Bowling Club report
with runners-up Kerrie Stewart and Lyn Wi ng. Congratula ons to all ladies on your fine bowling.
On Tuesday, June 10, Ka e Baldock represen ng Birds in the Bush received our dona on from our Christmas Charity wishing well. Ka e gave an interes ng and informa ve talk about how the charity supports women and children in our community.
Don’t forget we have free coaching on Wednesday, ring Sue 0409522099 if you would like to join us.
Finally for this week, our thoughts are with all of our members who are not well.
Orange Runners
Club News
ORC Wednesday Run Results – 11 June 2025
Congratula ons to the 62 members who joined us at Elephant Park last Wednesday.
Top Men: Oscar Blacklow – 10:59; Will Parish – 11:59; Chris Clough – 13:04
Top Women: Meta Thorn – 13:39; Marley Beahan – 14:16; Kinisha Roweth – 14:16
ORC Sunday Run Results – 15 June 2025
A big well done to the 69 members who joined us on Sunday at Hiney Road – a great turnout on a sunny winter day! Special congratula ons to Will Parish, who clocked up 25 runs and earned an achievement medal –great effort!
New Course Records
7.6km Male – Nathan Sutherland set a new course record with 27:55, beating the previous me of 29:55 held since 2021.
7.6km Female – Amy Crosbie clocked 37:17, the equal 2nd fastest me on this course.
Top 2.4km Runners
Women: Amber Rich – 10:15; Meta Thorn – 12:18; Lani Roberts – 13:07
Men: George Rutledge – 15:38; Archie Rutledge – 16:43; Trevor Jones – 26:51
Top 5km Runners
Women: Nicole Williamson – 26:52; Kim Jarvis – 28:31; Kate Harris – 29:52
Men: Quinn Lingier – 26:31; Ryan Clark – 26:53; Cooper Williamson – 26:53
Men: Will Parish – 44:47; Jack Dainth – 44:50; Hugh Dain th – 44:50
You can find all the mes and full results at: orangerunners.com.au/results
Katie Baldock from Birds in the Bush gave an informative talk.
Duntryleague Women’s Golf
Wentworth Squad
The Dorothy Collins Memorial Trophy was contested on Tuesday, June 3. Dorothy was a much-loved golfer in her me at Duntryleague and some of her family members were in a endance to present this trophy. Her daughters Di Parker and Carol Hughes as well as her niece Barb Chapman paid tribute to her. Also in a endance were her sisters Edna and Margaret. The trophy was won by Su-
zie Gardner and Sue Wild – congratula ons to you both.
This round of golf was also the qualifying round for 4BBB Championships. Eight teams of two qualified and they will be involved in a play-off over the next two weeks. Well done to all.
Pictured are some of the winning teams with the presenters Carol Hughes, Di Parker and Barb Chapman.
Country Club BOWLS NOTES
Hello Bowlers, Due to opera onal cost, green fees will increase from $15 to $20, star ng from July 1, 2025.
Wishing Jim Finn safe travels as he follows the Australian Cricket Team around the Caribbean, so please don’t call him for any social bowls as he will be away for six weeks.
Tuesday socials were washed out due to some lovely rain.
In Saturday socials, 30 bowlers were out on a sunny Autumn day and we welcomed back Peter Stewart too – great to see you on the green again.
Raffle Winners were Ray Windsor and Peter Wright. Lucky rink winners were Julie Pi , Carol Brooking and John Hedger. Unfortunates’ rink was Jim Hill, Ray Windsor and Al Gregory.
Saturday jackpot was not won.
If there are people interested in gaining their umpire or markers accredita on, please contact President Phil McGarity on 0418 277 418.
Helen Ross, Maureen Commins, Di Selwood, Trish Harvey, Wendy McIntyre, Judy Brewer, Alice McKeowen and Karen Newton
Congratula ons to everyone on playing so well and to the caddies for your support. The return match is on Friday, June 20, at Wentworth where we have a chance to even it up.
On Friday, June 6, our Pennant Team of Di Selwood, Helen Ross, Alice McKeowen, Tayla Harvey and Wendy McIntyre and their caddies Trish Harvey, Maureen Commins, Karen Newton, Judy Brewer and Anne Field travelled to Mudgee to play the first round of the Pennants. It was oh so close with Wentworth just being pipped 3/2.
Saturday roll-up
For Tuesday games, please call Jim Finn on 0418 651 382 or Peter Wright 0427 813 220, or the club on 6361 3210. Names in by 11.30 for a 12.30 start.
Thursday bowls, please call Peter Brooking on 0407 662 171, or the club 6361 3210. Names in by 11.30 for a 12.30 start.
Saturday bowls, please call
Peter Wright 0427 813 220 & Ron Dunn 0484 236 522, or the club on 6361 3210. Names in by 11.30 for a 12.30 start.
Don’t call Jim, as previously men oned he will be unavailable.
Bowls E que e ps
Respect Boundaries: Stay on your designated rink and avoid stepping onto other rinks. Happy bowling,
Chris ne
2nd runners up Ros Davis & Val Durack.
Left, the players: Tayla Harvey, Helen Ross, Di Selwood, Alice McKeowen and Wendy McIntyre
Above: The Wentworth Squad who travelled to Mudgee to play Pennants: Anne Field, Tayla Harvey,
SPORTSCAM
WALLAS JUNIOR RUGBY GALA DAY IN DUBBO
By JONATHAN ROE
OrangeCityLife made the trip to Dubbo on Sunday, June 15, to catch some of the junior rugby ac on from under-10s Wallas Gala Day hosted by the Dubbo Junior Rugby Club at Victoria Park.
Photos are of the Dubbo Rebels taking on Orange Emus Black, and Wellington Red versus Orange City.
Orange Eagles’ under-12 boys go undefeated back-to-back in WJL
By DALLAS REEVES
In a remarkable feat highlighting determina on and dedicaon beyond their years, the Orange Eagles’ under-12 division one boys basketball side has remained undefeated in division one of Western Junior League basketball for two seasons. The Western Junior League incorporates two geographic regions, the Central West and Northern Riverina of NSW. Finals are held at Griffith, principally because of the brilliant eight-court complex at Griffith Regional Sports Stadium. It was a stage that matched the progress of this Eagles side.
Across 27 matches in 2024 and 2025 in the Western Junior League, the team has won every match it has played.
In 2024, Orange took out the compe on, winning 12 regular season matches and two finals. And in 2025, while winning 11 regular season games and two finals, the Orange Eagles under-12s boys made the long trek to Griffith three mes to taste success.
The Orange side – coached by Mitch Brakenridge and Paul Ringland – was a class above opponents like West Wyalong, Leeton, Temora, Griffith, West Wyalong and Lithgow but enjoyed a friendly rivalry with Narrandera this year.
A er defea ng Narrandera 41-35 and 45-42 during the regular season, the Orange Eagles under-12s boys were able to step it up on finals weekend on May 10-11, bea ng the Knights 58-37 and 52-30 in the grand final to claim the crown.
“It’s a pre y cool achievement... two years in a row, our first entry-level basketballers have been undefeated,” Brakenridge said.
“It’s a really good sign for where our program is headed. There has been a lot of people that have put in a lot of effort over a long me with Orange Basketball.”
Coach Brakenridge believed the side buying into defence was crucial to the twin years of undefeated success.
“Some mes, basketball is a flashy game,” he said. “It’s hard to get kids to buy into the defensive side of things, but this group did that really well. They knew the defence was going to get them home.
“To get a group of kids this age... to e in and s ck to a goal for three months and commit to improvement in the face of success is a cool story,” coach Brakenridge said.
“It’s not always something you o en see in kids so young. I think it’s a sign of how engaging the compe on is.”
Three players (Dylan Brakenridge, Lachie Bailey, Ar e Keegan) were part of both the victorious 2024 and 2025 sides.
However, coach Brakenridge said the six newcomers to the side this year were tremendous as well.
“They were able to get a lot of experience as last year’s bottom-aged players,” he said of Dylan, Lachie, and Ar e. “They were able to help the next genera on of kids come through.
That next genera on of kids picked up the lessons of the previous years and jumped straight in. They didn’t worry about last year’s reputa on; they just wanted to come in and make it their own.”
And he pointed to one match during the regular season against Narrandera where the Knights led and threatened to end Orange’s unbeaten run as a defining point of the season.
“It was a friendly but fierce rivalry,” coach Brakenridge said of the four Orange-Narrandera matches. “Obviously we had a target on our back from last year... and Narrandera gave us a lot of curry in the first game. In the second game, they were leading, but we went on a ninenil (9-0) run to just win. That really set us up.”
The 2025 Orange under-12s boys side division one side will play State Cup in August.
Dedicated and astute coaches are helping the Orange Eagles develop in regional basketball
Aside from the victorious under-12 boys division one side, the Orange Eagles also had Its under-14s girls side qualifying for the Western Junior League (WJL) division one grand final, losing 42-37 to Dubbo Rams.
Orange made the under-14s division one boys decider, going down to hosts Griffith 73-37.
Sco Holmes was the 14s boys’ division one coach and Orange Eagles’ coaching director Paul Masters was the 14s girls’ division one mentor.
Holmes is also a Western Region Academy of Sport coach while Ben Keegan is a well-known Orange basketball iden ty, coaching for the Eagles at under-16s level.
In division two, Orange won the under-18s boys, defea ng the Young Pacers 76-59.
Jamahl Zegzula, a local coach who mentors for Basketball NSW and also completes a lot of volunteer skills training with the Eagles, is also a key coaching member.
“He is integral to the club
and the direc on it is going,” under-12 boys division one coach Mitch Brakenridge said of Masters.
“There are a lot of experienced coaches who have been in and around the game a long me.”
The coaches also have the assistance of exercise physiologists RPT to co-ordinate performance training.
“The club has a real co-ordinated approach… the idea of having that approach to our training and development is part of the success,” Brakenridge said.
“It’s really down to the volunteer coaches pu ng in their me and effort that the club is big and growing.
“We’re really lucky that we have an experienced crop of coaches and coaching directors that are helping us push in the right direc on.”
Paul Ringland, who coached rugby union very successfully at Orange Emus, is also on the under-12s coaching staff
The Eagles had two sides in division two of the under-12s girls compe on, of which they were proud.
The victorious Orange Eagles under 12s boys division one side for 2025. Back, from left: Mitch Brakenridge (coach), Tam Keegan (manager), Paul Ringland (coach). Middle, from left, Dylan Brakenridge, Artie Keegan, Jax Murphy, Sawyer Oldrey Mills, Henry Sullivan. Front, from left, Ashton Threlfall, Lachlan Bailey, Hudson Mcalpine, Barnaby Luelf.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED.
Thanks to Norman J. Penhall Funerals
Remember your loved ones here in FOND MEMORIES
thanks to Norman J. Penhall Funerals
FUNERAL NOTICES
NASH
01.01.1936 – 9.06.2025
Passed away peacefully and with dignity suddenly at Orange Health Service. Dearly loved
husband of Barbara. Much Loved father and father-in-law of Brett (deceased), Scott (deceased)
and Sarah, Michael and Kay. Much loved grandfather “Pop” of Taj, Evie, Skye and Sam.
“Forever Remembered”
Aged 89 years
are kindly invited to attend his Funeral Service to be held
NORMAN J PENHALL FUNERALS AFDA, FDA of NSW 33 William Street, Orange Phone 63623751
YOURCAREER
Boilermakers! Want a better career locally with a real team and an employer you trust?
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•We’re looking for experienced Boilermakers to join our team at our Orange Workshop.
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•If you’re a trade-qualified boilermaker and are passionate about getting the job done right, we want to hear from you!
Thomsons Garden Centre WOULD SUIT GAP YEAR STUDENTS
03.10.1935 – 13.06.2025
In loving memory of DAVE
3.11.1921 ~ 13.6.2006
22.4.1926 ~ 27.6.2010
17 to 21 year olds in gap year a garden related retail outlet. Applicants will need to be reliable skills. Business operates seven days and hours are rostered and maintaining shop displays, sales and unpacking stock. Some heavy procedures.
Our wonderful parents, inlaws, grandparents and great grandparents.
Resumes to be emailed to:
Congratulations to our June 12 winners:
What am I Watching
Winner: Bonnie Dickerson
Answer: Karate Kid: Legends
Passed away peacefully at Ascott Gardens. Late of Orange. Adored wife of Fred (deceased). Adored mother and mother-in-law of Diane and Brian (deceased), Wayne. Adored and much loved “Nan” of Melissa and John, Belinda and Stewart and great grandmother of Tomi, Jak, Amelia, Jayden, Mia, Lachlan, Courtney, Jakob, Sophie, Mason and Ava. Loved sister and sister-in-law of Bob and Carol, Maureen and Ken. A loved aunt to her nieces and nephews.
Name That Business
Winner: Steven O’Brien
Even though you haven’t been with us for many years, we treasure all our memories you have left us to share.
“Mother and Father Reunited” Aged 89 years
Answer: CENTRAL WEST
REHAB VET
A private service will be held.
Face in the Crowd
Winner: Robert Moore
Answer: Page 20
Always loved and never forgotten. Your loving family.
Find Pinny
PENHALL FUNERAL SERVICES AFDA, FDA of NSW 33 William Street, Orange Phone 63623751
Rory Winters
Answer: Page 6
ACROSS
1 Indian state (3)
3 Child who has reached
24 months (3-4-3)
10 Lunacy (7)
11 Offence (7)
12 Painful (9)
9-LETTER
PUZZLES…. PUZZLES….
23 Highlander (4)
PUZZLES….
WORDFIT
3
25 Evening entertainment (9)
27 Witticism (7)
28 Touching without intersecting (7)
29 Fabric embellishment (10)
30 Swab (3)
DOWN
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2 Closest galaxy (9)
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18 Designer (9)
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Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in ‘s’.
Each number corresponds to a letter of the alphabet. Two have been filled in for you, can you work out the rest?
4 LETTERS
5 LETTERS
QUICK QUIZ
6 LETTERS ANSWER CORALS EASTER TOTALS
7 LETTERS
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number
8 LETTERS DECEASED
Can you find all the words listed? The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.
TIME WARP
with ORANGE AND DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Big crowd for Saturday stomp
The band was playing and crowds of young people gathered at the Na onal Tyres depot in Orange in December 1964 for a Saturday stomp dancing session.
The stomp, which took Australia by storm in the early 1960s, was a popular energe c dance but some local councils banned it because of concern about damage to dance floors.
It made li le difference in Orange where stompers enjoyed the fun for
Hatch
Harvey Patrick McGothigan
BORN: 8.07am, Saturday, May 31, 2025. WEIGHT: 3240g (7.1pounds). FAMILY: First-born child to proud parents Amanda and Liam McGothigan, and also first grandchild to Allison and Patrick McGothigan of Blayney, Petra Co er and Wes Kennedy of Orange, and Rodney Co er and Kellee Parkes of Dubbo.
some years.
You can see in the background the old Orange gasworks in Peisley Street.
Photo courtesy CWD Nega ve Collec on, & District Historical Society.
The society holds a working day at Heritage Co age (148 March Street) each Wednesday from 10.30am to 4 pm (with a lunch break from 12.30-1.30pm). Members are available to answer enquiries at this me.
THUMBS UP to poet Will Marn for his lovely words delivered in a beau ful pair of fashionable red pants.
A BIG THUMBS UP to Jenisa Florist who created the most beauful floral arrangement delivered on my birthday. They recently also made up a lovely gi box of fruit and chocolates for a nursing home resident. Their flowers last really well and can be enjoyed for quite some me. Thoroughly recommend them.
A HUMUNGOUS
HEART WARMING THUMBS UP to the wonderful caring folk at Orange Health Service and my doctor, Dr Dona Monteray. I recently a ended the Emergency Department, where many pa ents were wai ng paently to be helped. All of the staff showed kindness, understanding and professionalism. May I make special men on of the young lady in administra on, the nurse in Triage, Ben, Emerson, Emily, Wendy and the Doctor on call. I was later transferred to the Cardiac Care Unit, where I was cared for by happy and comfor ng nurses Amelia, Amber, Stephaniem with a huge shout-out to Max, Dr Karve and his professional team and all the incredibly talented technicians. Thank you again for your care and most welcoming comfor ng smiles. We in Orange and the surrounding region are certainly blessed.
THUMBS UP to Paige at Liquorland Orange. Without excep on, you can be guaranteed a happy and welcoming gree ng from her and her desire to help if you require it is always evident and on offer. Such complete and all-round good service is hard to find these days.
THUMBS UP to Orange City Council. On the long weekend we had trouble with blocked sewerage pipes at our home in Orange. We rang the emergency number at Council and spoke to a very helpful lady who sent out the plumbing crew in 30 minutes. They fixed the problem quickly. Thank you all for the quick service in awful weather. We are very grateful.
A BIG THUMBS UP to Jo at the Orange Aqua c Centre for taking the me to help and encourage me with a swimming issue. Her kindness is a reflec on of the great staff who operate the wonderful facility throughout the year.
THUMBS UP to the Orange High School students who displayed sportsmanship and talent at the Western Region Cross Country event. Congratula ons to those who were selected to run at the State carnival in July.
THUMBS UP to the wonderful person who handed in my lost credit card to the cafe at North Orange. Thank you so much for your honesty.
The Thumbs represent thoughts and opinions of readers and do not necessarily reflect those of Orange City Life. Every care is taken not to publish thumbs that are considered derogatory or defamatory in nature . Please note that thumbs may be edited for clarity, space or legal reasons.
