NSW Farmers will not advocate for an immediate ban on Energy from Waste incinerator approvals in agricultural and pastoral zones.
And the reason behind the decision made at this week’s NSW Farmers Annual Conference in Rosehill is because of the finer details, or rather lack of.
The NSW Farmers Parkes and Forbes Branch put forward the motion at the conference on Tuesday in an effort to stop an Energy from Waste facility that aims to burn 600,000 tonnes of Sydney’s rubbish, from being built in Parkes.
But it was lost due to fears the ban might apply and impact saw mill and sugar cane mill waste burning that occur in other parts of the state. It was a very unexpected turn of events, said Parkes and Forbes Branch vice chair Gavin Tom who was sure the motion would pass.
“It should have been explained that these ‘Energy from Waste’ incinerators are a special class of incinerator burning urban waste,” he reflected.
Not long after the vote Mr Tom was approached by George Greig from the Tottenham Branch who offered to help them with rewording the motion to put to the next NSW Farmers Executive Council meeting in September.
“This assumes the meeting voted against the motion because they didn’t realise the specific meaning of ‘Energy from Waste’ which would
■ Continued on page 3
It’s a Guinness record
By CHRISTINE LITTLE
Sherrie Williams from Tullam-
ore has broken the Guinness World Record for the most weight lifted in an hour by a one arm deadlift.
At 23,950kg, Sherrie surpassed the record by 3950kg on Sunday at Anytime Fitness Forbes, where she works as a group fit trainer.
It’s an unofficial record for the moment, until she submits it to Guinness World Record officials for approval, which can take up to three months.
In the meantime she’s soaking up the achievement and the twoand-a-half-year journey that led her to this day.
Especially given it didn’t all quite go to plan on Sunday.
“I was aiming for 30,000kg,” Sherrie admitted.
“I was a bit nervous because I had woken up feeling heavy on my chest, like the feeling of a cold coming on.
“I told myself to just get in and do it.
“There were a few factors I had
to play with - do I do more reps, less weight in case I wasn’t feeling well or do I do less reps, heavier weight?
“I went the cardio way.”
Sherrie had taken a few days off work in the lead-up to the attempt, doing things that made her happy, like gardening. She’s also an event manager for the human pull at the Tullamore Show in August.
“Stuff to keep my mind busy,” she said.
Sherrie and her band of volunteers gathered at Anytime Fitness
Forbes on Sunday morning for a prompt 10.30am start.
The equipment had to be weighed prior, including the 20kg bar, and the entire event filmed to document it.
Sherrie began one-arm deadlifting 40kg, done in sets of 10, 12 or 15 reps every minute.
She dropped to 30kg at 11.02am. By 11.04am she had reached 14,160kg and at 11.13am she had just over 2000kg to go.
Sherrie fought back tears when ■ Continued on page 16
SHERRIE WILLIAMS (FRONT) CELEBRATES HER GUINNESS WORLD RECORD WITH HER TEAM CHRIS WILLIAMS FROM PARKES, D-ARNE GUNN (FORBES), RACHEL CRAWFORD (ORANGE), HAYLEE REDFERN (FORBES), ANYTIME FITNESS FORBES MANAGER ZARA CRAWFORD AND JP KERRY HESSEL (FORBES). PHOTO: CHRISTINE LITTLE
ANTIQUE CAR CLUB HITS THE ROAD
Fourteen members of the Parkes Antique Motor Club travelled to Canowindra for a wine tasting at Rosnay Winery.
The members said they were very impressed with the service and history of the family winery.
For more information about the Parkes Antique Motor Club who meet regularly each month and are caretakers of the Parkes Car Museum at the Parkes Visitor Information Centre, please contact 0419 888 695.
WHAT’S ON in and around Parkes
BREASTSCREEN VAN
Here until Thursday, 14 August
The BreastScreen mobile van returns to Parkes, in the Little Theatre car park on the corner of Dalton Street and Bogan Street, for two months. Hours of operation will be 8.30am-4.30pm Monday to Friday during this time. Take advantage of the opportunity and get yourself checked. Call 13 20 50 to book an appointment or visit the website breastscreen.nsw.gov.au.
FROZEN JR PRODUCTION
25 July to 3 August
Parkes Musical and Dramatic Society is excited to present Frozen Junior. For three weekends only 46 of the most talented juniors in our district will bring the magical tale of Frozen to life in Parkes. This show is 100 per cent family friendly and suited to children of all ages. Tickets are selling quickly with opening night already sold out. You can grab your tickets via www.parkesmandd. com.au
‘NO ENERGY FROM WASTE IN-
CINERATOR’ INFORMATION NIGHT
Saturday, 26 July
Parkes Clean Future Alliance is hosting an information night on the proposed Parkes Energyfrom-Waste incinerator at the Parkes Leagues Club on Saturday, 26 July at 6pm (doors open at 5.45pm). The night will feature guest MC and rural influencer Kaitie Nash, with special guest speakers from NSW Parliament, independent technical experts and representatives from other communities fighting Energy-from-Waste incineration. It’s a free community event and all are welcome to attend.
PARKES SHIRE CONCERT BAND 30TH ANNIVERSARY
Sunday, 27 July
The Parkes Shire Concert Band (PSCB) is turning 30 and they’re celebrating it with a momentous anniversary concert. The weekend of 26 and 27 July is not one to miss and it’s free. The historic Fire & Rescue NSW Band and Orange Regional Conservatorium Wind Ensemble are the featured guests. PSCB will collaborate with nearby regional bands in Forbes, Orange, Griffith, Wellington and others in a workshop on the Saturday. The community concert will feature a total of 120 musicians performing - this also includes appearances from Subtonic Fusion and Divermento from Orange. It all gets underway at 2pm on 27 July in the Starlight Lounge of the Parkes Services Club.
NATIONAL TREE DAY
Sunday, 27 July
Join the National Tree Day team to plant out a corridor adjacent to the Waste Water Treatment Plant providing connectivity in a Fuzzy Box woodland community. Central West Lachlan Landcare are once again pleased to be working in partnership with Parkes Shire Council to deliver National Tree Day. Registrations are essential via the Planet Art website link.
CENTRAL WEST BIRD EXPO
Saturday, 2 August
The annual Central West Bird Show will be at the Forbes Showground. Public entry is $2 per person with kids under 12 free. The bird sale is open to the public from 10am to 2pm unless sold out prior. Bird entry is $1 per bird with a
minimum $10 entry fee and $3 per bird sellers fee. There will be trade stalls, food vans, raffles, education stands and more on the day.
100TH TULLAMORE SHOW
8-9 August
Tullamore Show kicks off the Parkes Shire Show circuit and is one not to be missed. Help Tullamore Show celebrate their 100th year with new and returning entertainment for the whole family. There will be top-tier livestock competitions, locally produced goods, hands on exhibits and more. Check out the Tullamore Show and be part of history! For more information visit their Facebook page www.facebook.com/TullamorePaHAssociationIncShow
TRUNDLE SHOW
12-13 August
Each year the Trundle Show proudly celebrates education, innovation, agriculture, arts and community engagement. Be sure to check out the Trundle Showground come to life celebrating all things that make Trundle great. For more information visit their Facebook page ‘Trundle Show’.
BEDGERABONG SHOW
Saturday, 16 August
Start planning what you might enter into this year’s greatest little show in the west from your veggie patch, kitchen or craft room. Stall holders are invited to register with site from $20, payment on the day. You can register your interest online - more information and links on the Bedgerabong Show Facebook page. Or contact the secretary 0427808158 or email bedgerabongshow@hotmail.com for more information.
PEAK HILL SHOW
19-20 August
Peak Hill Show will be celebrating 120 years of tradition this August. The show kicks off with a horse show on 19 August, followed by a full day of events on 20 August. From exciting rides to hands-on agricultural experiences - it’s the perfect day out for families, farmers, and visitors alike. For more information, sponsorship enquiries or to get involved, please contact Peak Hill Show Society secretary on email at peakhillpaha@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page www.facebook.com/PeakHillShow
GRDC in Parkes for farm business update
Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) is hosting a farm business update in Parkes this Thursday.
After sessions in Griffith and Wagga, grain growers and agribusiness professionals in this region will gain valuable insights into farm business management at the Parkes gathering which GRDC says has been shaped by local grower feedback.
It will be held at the Parkes Services Club.
Each event features topics such as:
• Managing the margin squeeze in cropping enterprises.
• Machinery replacement decisions.
• Capital allocation for farm investments.
• Succession planning for farming families.
GRDC Grower Relations Manager Sally Dickinson said the events bring together leading industry experts to discuss key strategies for improving business profitability and navigating challenges in modern grain production.
“GRDC Farm Business Updates are designed to provide practical, actionable insights that help grain growers make informed decisions to enhance their business resilience and profitability,” she said. Registration is free but essential for catering. Visit: https://grdc. com.au/events/list/2025/07/grdcfarm-business-update-parkes. For more information visit GRDC’s event page or contact Erica McKay via erica@icanrural. com.au.
GRDC is one of 15 Rural Research and Development Corporations responsible for planning, investing in and overseeing research, development and extension for 25 leviable grain crops. Their purpose is to invest in research, development and extension to create enduring profitability for Australian grain growers.
Cropping enterprises and machinery replacement are among the topics to be discussed at the Parkes event.
SOME OF THIS YEAR’S BERRY/KENNEDY CLAN WHO TOOK TO THE ICY COLD POOL WATER
Icy family plunge grows
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
For the past 10 winters the Kennedy and Berry family have made it a tradition to jump into an ice cold swimming pool. Not for fun but for something far more meaningful.
The annual plunge is their way of raising funds and awareness for Motor Neurone Disease (MND), a devastating illness that has personally touched the families’ lives more than once.
Over the years the family has raised around $15,000 in honour of loved ones lost to the MND beast including the families’ great-grandmother, grandfather and cousin.
“When the Big Freeze campaign first began we thought ‘this is something we can do’,” Kirsty Berry said.
Until this year the fundraiser was a family affair with members taking turns jumping into the pool and donating for every participant.
But this year there was an extra icy element added to the fundraising.
With just two weeks of planning the family teamed up with the Parkes Spacemen and the Coachmen Hotel taking their cause public.
On Friday, 11 July a community night was held at the Coachmen Hotel featuring buckets of ice poured of Bella Thompson from the Spacecats, Sam Dwyer from the Spacemen, Tony Todd from the Coachmen and John Kennedy.
A signed Spacemen jersey went to auction and the Parkes Spacemen Old Boys contributed their Joker Poker raffle money on the night to the cause.
“There was a great crowd there and we raised $2749.55,” Kristy said.
The next day the family tradition of a cold plunge into the pool took place with 10 members participating.
From Kristy’s own fundraising page they raised another $527 bringing the total to $3276 for MND research.
The success from this year’s fundraising has sparked plans for an even bigger and better fundraiser for next year with the Coachmen and Spacemen already committed to coming on board again.
“We’re so grateful to Terrie and Tony from the Coachmen, the Spacemen players and supporters for getting on board,” Kristy said.
“It means so much.
“Not just to our family but to every family in Parkes touched by MND.”
Energy from Waste NSW Farmers motion lost
■ From page 1.
have excluded the sugar cane and timber mill waste burning,” he said.
Parkes farmers Garry O’Brien and Glen Woods joined Mr Tom at the conference and spoke for the motion - they said they “totally understood” why it had to be voted down.
“Our wording brought us unstuck,” Mr O’Brien said, describing the experience as a learning curve and new territory for them.
“But we spoke about it and everyone is aware.”
He said rewording the motion and taking it to the executive meeting is an option.
“That’s for the branch to decide.
“We’ll explore all options going
forward.”
Mr O’Brien raised several points on Energy from Waste incineration and the Parkes proposal in his speech seeking support for the motion. Among them were:
“Australian produce has a clean, green image and is a trusted brand globally,” he said.
“Merely commissioning a plant could affect processor and consumer confidence, and in turn markets.
“Traceability is paramount and as illustrated by EIO in livestock, any potential residue detection in any part of the supply chain can be tracked to the source in minutes.
“Any resulting issue could leave producers with little to no markets and negatively impact on land values and food security.
“The proponents (Parkes Energy Recovery) have never laid claim to capturing 100 per cent of pollutants and emissions, such as dioxins and furans build up in the environment over time.
“There has been no consultation with any peak agricultural body I am aware of nor any risk assessments on agriculture I have seen.
“Until the concerns of primary producers are addressed I believe we must aim to prevent Energy from Waste facilities gaining approvals in food growing regions.”
Personally, Mr O’Brien said he had his concerns around agriculture, food security and human health.
“I have my concerns for an industry that’s been there since land was
settled,” he said.
“I have nothing against the proponents and I’m not totally against the SAP (Parkes Special Activation Precinct, where the Energy from Waste plant is proposed to be built).
“I think the SAP will be brilliant for Parkes.”
But he sees the SAP and the incinerator as two entirely different entities.
“Coming out of the conference we’re still very positive, it’s started conversations around this which is very healthy,” Mr O’Brien said.
“We’re all learning and it’s a learning process.”
The motion tabled just prior to Parkes’ own at the conference was also regarding urban waste.
The Goulburn Branch proposed
NSW Farmers seek to prevent urban waste from being transferred to waste management facilities in rural areas, as is the case in their region.
Detailed in the motion’s background information, the NSW Government is and has future plans to expand dumping Sydney’s waste in regional areas, with Sydney’s landfill space projected to run out by 2030.
“Stopping the dumping of waste in regional areas will remove the risks of contamination of agricultural land, waterways and adverse impacts on food security and neighbouring farmers,” the branch said.
This state-wide motion passed, and Mr O’Brien said it was very positive and relevant to Parkes.
Parkes artist a joint winner
A painting about domestic vio lence and a painting about fami lies and western NSW have joint ly won the 2025 CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes Aboriginal Art Competition.
The works of artists Maddi son Hull of Parkes and Beverley Moore of Bourke equally im pressed the judges, and both en trants have been awarded a $2000 first prize.
The competition was judged during NAIDOC Week by Bish op Columba Macbeth-Green, CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes chief executive officer Anne-Ma rie Mioche and CatholicCare Wil cannia-Forbes director cultural engagement Jane Kemp.
Ms Mioche said the two win ning artworks were powerful creative works.
In More Than Meets The Eye, Maddison Hull’s subject is domestic violence.
“The intricate work features an eye, a red handprint and a tree,” Ms Mioche said.
“Writing about her artwork, Ms Hull says the handprint is either lives lost to domestic violence, or to show someone putting up their hand to no longer silence the violence, while the tree is to show the old connection to food, shelter and markers for stories,
which survivors rely on to escape safely.
“Ms Hull says when looking at people, we never really know what’s going on until someone either speaks up or it’s too late, and
PHOTO: Supplied
the artwork’s eye shape is to give us an insight into a story we may not see or understand.”
Beverley Moore painted the visually striking CatholicCare –Families.
Next phase of wetlands begins
Parkes Shire Council is progressing with plans to transform Parkes’ former wastewater treatment ponds into a biodiverse, naturalistic landscape that will provide recreational, environmental, and cultural value to the community.
Thanks to a successful grant secured through the Growing Regions Program in 2024, the next phase of the Parkes Wetlands project has begun.
Jointly funded by Council and the Commonwealth Government, this exciting project will result in an aquatic boardwalk, two purpose-built bird hides, public art installations, interpretive signage, extensive revegetation, and engineered habitats to promote ecological diversity.
Additional grant funding has been secured through the NSW Government Local Small Commitments Allocation program to go towards the cost of the bird hides.
Construction of the boardwalk
and bird hides is scheduled to start in early 2026, with all works expected to be completed by late 2026.
These upgrades build on significant earlier works, which included reshaping the former ponds into a hydrologically diverse wetland system and creating a 2.5-kilometre walking track around the site.
Subject to further funding, Council plans to connect this track with Parkes’ existing walkway network, eventually linking it to the track that terminates at Billabong Creek on Eugowra Road.
While the site remains closed to the public until the completion of this project, residents will have a rare opportunity to visit the wetlands on National Tree Day on Sunday 27 July.
This annual event, jointly hosted by Council and Central West Lachlan Landcare, has been held at the wetlands site and surrounding land since 2018.
People interested in participat-
“Writing about her artwork, Ms Moore says the tree represents strength, its green leaves representing the families our organisation has worked with to support them to flourish,” Ms Mi-
“It also references the families across the vast Wilcannia-Forbes diocese, and the landscape in which they live, including the rivers that have sustained her people for thousands of years.
“Ms Moore says the painting’s white and black dots are ‘white and black peoples working to-
The judges also awarded second prize to two paintings – Corroboree by Sheldon Smith of Bourke, and Connecting to Country, also by Maddison Hull, and they will each receive a $1500 second prize.
Third prize of $500 was won by Mark Curry of Wilcannia with Frog Ponds.
Running for its fourth time, the CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes Aboriginal Art Competition attracted 14 entries from across western NSW in 2025.
The social support organisation established the competition in 2019 to generate opportunities
Police seize $40k worth of drugs
Central West Police have seized an estimated $40,000 worth of prohibited drugs across the Orange area following a five month investigation under Strike Force Binnu. Officers attached to Central West Police District commenced Strike Force Binnu in March to investigate the supply of prohibited drugs in licenced premises in Orange.
During the investigation strike force officers have seized 111 grams of cocaine, 7.4 grams of MDMA and 0.33 grams of methylamphetamine. The combined estimated street value of all drugs seized is $40,000, NSW Police said in a statement issued to media.
Strike force officers have also charged 10 people with 60 offences relating to the organised supply of drugs in Orange and surrounding areas.
Following extensive investigations, strike force officers arrested a 25-year-old woman at a home on Rutherford Place in Bathurst on 17 July. She was taken to Bathurst Police Station where she was charged with take part in supply of prohibited drug.
The woman was granted conditional bail to appear before Orange Local Court on Thursday, 31 July. Investigations under Strike Force Binnu continue.
Deputy Mayor Marg Applebee and Central West Lachlan Landcare Coordinator, reflected on the long-term community effort behind the project.
“The wetlands site is already an important community space, thanks to the countless volunteers who’ve contributed to reveg-
Tree Day plantings thriving year after year.
“Eventually, this vegetation will mature and create vital habitat links between the wetlands, Goobang Creek and surrounding native bushland.”
Once complete, the wetlands will be a thriving haven for bird-
And, Cr Applebee said, a living example of how local action can deliver lasting environmental and community benefits.
For more information about the wetlands, please visit www. parkes.nsw.gov.au/Council/ News-media-and-projects/Projects-and-works/Parkes-Wetlands
CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes CEO Anne-Marie Mioche and director cultural engagement Jane Kemp and Bishop Columba MacbethGreen award first prize to paintings CatholicCare – Families (left) and More Than Meets The Eye (right) by a Parkes artist in the 2025 CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes Aboriginal Art Competition.
Community Newsletter
LOCAL ROAD SAFETY SURVEY
Parkes Shire locals are invited to take part in a road safety research project led by The George Institute for Global Health. If you’re 18 or over, live or work in Parkes Shire, and can complete a short online survey, your input will help shape future initiatives to reduce speeding-related trauma. Complete both surveys and go into the draw to win one of four $250 e-gift vouchers.
To complete the survey, scan the QR code.
HAVE YOUR SAY - DALTON STREET LOADING ZONE
Council is seeking community feedback on a proposal to install a Loading Zone on Dalton Street, west of the McGees Lane intersection. Council has received a request to review parking arrangements to improve the ease of loading and unloading goods for businesses and customers. In response, a proposed plan has been developed outlining the location of the new Loading Zone.
We invite you to participate in the community consultation by completing the ‘Have Your Say’ survey, available by scanning the QR code above. Any written submissions should be emailed to council@parkes.nsw.gov.au or addressed to:
The General Manager, Parkes Shire Council, PO Box 337, PARKES NSW, 2870.
Submissions Close: 5:00pm 30 July 2025.
Are you a local Parkes Shire not-for-profit or community based organisation looking for a helping hand?
Round 1 of Parkes Shire Council’s Community Financial Assistance Program is open for applications!
This round includes General grants of up to $1,000.00 for a specific purpose or event, and Leasing and Licencing grants to request a reduction in leasing and licensing fees on Council owned properties.
For more information or to apply, visit: bit.ly/ ParkesShireGrants
Applications close at 5pm on Monday 28th July 2025.
PUBLIC NOTICES
PLANNED WORKS - PAVER REPLACEMENT IN PARKES CBD
Council is carrying out paver replacement works on the eastern corner of Clarinda & Church Streets, Parkes (weather permitting). The scope of the works will include the removal of two trees, replacement of another with an advanced tree, and replacing damaged pavers with concrete. Works are expected to be completed by Friday 1 August. We ask all residents and businesses to take care in the area and follow directions from staff on site.
SCHEDULED ROAD WORKS CASWELL STREET PEAK HILL
Essential maintenance works will be carried out from Wednesday 16 July to Wednesday 30 July 2025 along the following sections of Caswell Street:
• Bingara Street to Narra Street
• Mingelo Street to Ween Street
• North of Ingalba Street
Traffic will be affected in both directions, with a reduced speed limit of 40km/h in place. Please follow signage and drive with caution.
COUNCIL CONTINUES THE DEVELOPMENT OF NEW WETLANDS SITE
Thanks to a successful grant secured through the Growing Regions Program in 2024, Parkes Shire Council is progressing with plans to transform Parkes’ former wastewater treatment ponds into a biodiverse, naturalistic landscape that will provide recreational, environmental, and cultural value to our community.
For information, visit Council’s website.
WASTE 2 ART 2025: TOY-THEMED EXHIBITION WINNERS
Congratulations to the 79 local artists, schools and community groups who entered this year’s toy-themed competition, transforming discarded toys into imaginative works of art. With over 100 people attending the opening, Mayor Cr Neil Westcott praised the creativity and environmental messages behind the entries.
The exhibition is on display at Parkes Library and Cultural Centre until Thursday 31 July. Winning works will progress to the Regional Showcase in Dubbo this September. View the full list of winners on Council’s website.
CELEBRATE LIBRARY & INFORMATION WEEK
1-31 July Plastic-Free July 27 July Parkes National Tree Day 28 July - 3 AugLibrary & Info Week
8-9 AugustTullamore Show
12-13 AugustTrundle Show
18 AugustVietnam Veterans Day
19-20 AugustPeak Hill Show
22 AugustPaint Parkes REaD
25-27 AugustParkes Show
Parkes Shire Council advises that due to contractor delays in the water meter reading process, Quarter 4 water notices have been delayed. As a result, the due date has been extended to Friday 8 August 2025. This also applies to quarterly water direct debits
Some commercial properties may notice a duplicated sewer access line on the reverse of their notice - please disregard this, as charges have not been duplicated.
To read Council’s Public Notices and for live updates, scan the QR code or visit www.parkes.nsw.gov.au
Join us at Parkes Library for a week of great activities! Storytime and Rhyme Time return, Book Club meets Thursday 31 July to discuss Nutshell by Ian McEwan, and it’s your last chance to view the Waste 2 Art exhibition. Enjoy free access to books, Wi-Fi, computers, creative tech and more - there’s something for everyone!
Over 100 questions, answers on Energy from Waste project
Parkes Energy Recovery has released a comprehensive Q&A to the Parkes community in an effort to address questions and concerns regarding an Energy from Waste facility it proposes to build.
The 22-page document contains eight topics - on company history, technology, economics, energy recovery, health, environment, social/cultural and regulationand 116 questions and answers in total.
Technology features the most questions and answers with 30, followed by the environment topic
at 19.
It’s been distributed to the company’s community mailing list, as well as shared with stakeholders and published on the project’s website at parkesenergy.com.au.
The Q&A was developed in response to a document from the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives.
While the project is still in its early stages, we know how important it is to keep the community informed,” Parkes Energy Recovery wrote in its overview in the document.
“We are committed to transparency and addressing the questions and concerns of local residents, stakeholders and the wider public.”
The company said it has received valuable input and questions from the community over the past few months, including a resource from the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives, named ‘Questions to ask when evaluating a “Waste-to-Energy” Incinerator project or proposal’.
“We’ve been sent these questions and have seen them circulat-
ed online so we wanted to publish this broadly to anyone who might be interested,” the company said.
“This Q&A is based off this and provides current information about the project.”
Parkes Energy Recovery is proposing to obtain the required approvals, design, fund, build, own and operate an Energy from Waste facility within the Parkes Special Activation Precinct, to provide a reliable source of energy and a sustainable solution for managing non-recyclable waste in regional NSW.
Survey to help Donato best represent town
Orange MP Phil Donato is seeking feedback from Parkes residents through a survey on the proposed Parkes Energy from Waste (EfW) facility.
Mr Donato has received numerous enquiries from his constituents about the proposed facility that’s planned for the Parkes Special Activation Precinct since it was first announced in March.
Through the Regional Growth Development Corporation the NSW Government has entered into a development agreement
with Tribe Infrastructure Group and its consortium to deliver the $1.5 billion Parkes Energy Recovery project. If approved it would process and burn 600,000 tonnes of Sydney’s rubbish annually to generate electricity and steam.
“At this stage no final decision has been made,” Mr Donato said.
He’s encouraging residents living in the Parkes local government area to check their mailboxes for their opportunity to have a say and so he can accurately represent the views matter, he said.
“I attended the community drop-in sessions at Cooke Park Pavilion in April and heard a wide range of questions from residents who took the time to find out more about this project,” Mr Do-
nato said.
“To follow up on those Cooke Park Pavilion sessions, and to represent the views of the Parkes community, I am seeking your feedback through this sur-
“Please complete it and mail it back to my office in the reply-paid envelope or email it to orange@parliament.nsw.gov.au.”
Mr Donato said he has formally raised the issues with the NSW Government, taking it to Parliament twice now, and Parkes Shire Council.
“I remain committed to advocating for a transparent process, robust environmental safeguards and meaningful community consultation,” he said.
He also plans to visit a similar EfW facility in Western Australia to learn more and better understand the process.
“If you didn’t receive a survey, please contact my office on 6362 5199,” he said.
“Like any project of this size, there are always differing views – and I want to know your thoughts.”
No time to waste says resident
Letter to the Editor
What an interesting selection of speakers to address next Saturday night’s anti-incinerator gathering.
Sometimes those considered to be ‘Not In My Backyard’ advocates are right, like Jack Munday who saved The Rocks heritage area in Sydney from demolition, but far more often they are not.
The rapid increase in global warming has brought with it extreme fires, storms, floods and droughts, and our world is drowning in plastic and other rubbish.
In many countries waste to energy incinerators are already working safely and efficiently to reduce these problems, and our Parkes installation will have the latest and best technology.
The waste will be transported by train in sealed containers to the facility and the incinerator will only emit very small amounts of water vapour into the air while producing large amounts of clean electric power.
Without the incinerator and the jobs, and new industries it will bring, our town will probably experience gradual decline like the smaller towns nearby.
With the knowledge that the world has only three years left to radically reduce emissions or we will face total disaster, the time to start building this incinerator is now.
Pam Nankivell, Parkes
The
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Newell highway’s flood fix budget cut
Planning to reduce the duration of Newell Highway flood closures is almost ready to move forward again after the project budget was revised down $109 million.
Transport for NSW in December 2023 confirmed a total funding commitment of $141 million - $50 million in Federal and $91 million in State funding – following independent reviews of Australian and NSW infrastructure programs, a Transport spokesperson said in response to inquiries from The Forbes Advocate
Since 2024 the team has been investigating options that will shorten the closures, while maximising value for money.
“In early 2025, Transport identified a revised option that would fit within the available funding,” the spokesperson said.
“This option focuses on constructing culverts at existing causeways in the Marsden section of the Newell Highway to reduce the number of days the road is inundated during and after a flood event.”
Transport is now progressing concept design and environmental assessment for the revised option and expects to display the Review of Environmental Factors (REF) in 2026 for community and stakeholder feedback.
Cr Chris Roylance, chair of the Newell Highway Taskforce, is looking forward to seeing progress on what he describes as vital work on this national highway.
Cr Roylance has been among those calling for action since the lengthy closure of the highway during and after the 1990 floods, those calls intensified after it was closed for six weeks in the 2016 floods.
In the 2022 flood events it was closed for seven weeks and while getting the highway open in time for school holiday and Christmas travel was a priority, speed limits did remain in place while work on the damaged sections of road continued for months to follow.
Cr Roylance is eager to see detailed plans and - importantly - action.
“The culverts were the original vision now we’d like to see that put into place: we just need a timeline now as to when we can do that,” he said.
“It will be good for Forbes and West Wyalong to get that finalised – it cuts off that road completely and being a national highway, that should never happen,” Cr Roylance
causeways that flood first and stayed closed the longest in that 2022 event and – based on those findings – had begun preparing a concept design for some 11km of flood mitigation treatments at Marsden.
From early 2024, Transport has been working on a revised scope of works to meet the funding commitment confirmed for the project following the independent reviews of the Australian and NSW Govern-
The six-week closure of the Newell Highway in 2016 had an estimated total direct cost of $112 million (contingent valuation method), the National Institute of Economic and Industry Research calculated in a report published in August 2017.
The report, prepared for the Newell Highway Taskforce, government, primary producers and transport organisations, flagged:
- $23.5 million for increased road freight transport costs;
- $16 million from the loss of nearby service exports from the LGAs in the broader Bland Creek catchment;
- $20 million loss of agriculture production, compared to the case of an upgraded highway with best practice drainage facilities;
- $46 million loss of production from supply chain disruption elsewhere in Australia; and
- $6.7 million from increased road maintenance expenditure.
While they calculated loss in tourism expenditure from the national perspective, the loss to affected areas was estimated at $14 million.
The flow-on impact for lost increases and household consumption on total gross regional product was modelled at a minimum $138 million, up to $153 million, the impact on the most-affected LGAs was “of the order of a conservative $36 million”.
All dollar values are contingent valuation method based on the 2014
Get in quick, Frozen Junior opens this weekend
After eight weeks of rehearsals Frozen Junior officially opens this Friday and their first show is a sell-out.
With 46 of the most talented juniors in our district taking part, the show is set to be one to remember.
Parkes Musical and Dramatic Society posted on their social media pages that all cast members have worked so hard for the past eight weeks battling the usual winter flus and giving up personal events and holidays.
“They are beyond ready to present one of the best shows you have ever seen.”
The final dress rehearsal was held on Sunday, 20 July ahead of a massive three weekends of productions.
Shows will be running from Friday, 25 July to Sunday, 10 August.
There has already been a large interest in the production with Parkes Musical and Dramatic Society adding an additional two shows to keep up with the demand.
If you haven’t got your tickets yet you better get in as soon as possible as opening night has already sold out with the remaining shows filling up quick.
Frozen Junior is 100 per cent family friendly and suited to children of all ages so make sure to experience the fun and magic of this junior production.
Tickets are available via www. parkesmandd.com.au
Transport is working on plans to shorten flood closures on the Newell Highway between Forbes and West Wyalong. PHOTO: Transport for NSW in 2022
Pictured right: All 45 Frozen Junior cast members with Frozen cookies made by cast member Molly.
PHOTO: Parkes Musical and Dramatic Society
POPPY GURNEY IS OUR STUDENT OF THE WEEK
What is your favourtie colour? Pink
What is your favourite food? Mangoes
What would you like to be when you grow up? A hairdresser
What are your strengths? Gymnastics
What do you like about your school? I learn new things and make new friends
ISLA BARBER IS OUR STUDENT OF THE WEEK
What do you like to do outside of school? Going on holidays and playing with my sister Isla Barber is the Star of the Week for demonstrating our Core Values (In Praise, Love, and Trust) and for always being a good listener and actively participating in all activities.
What is your favourite subject? Science
In your free time, what do you like to do? Play with my Barbie dolls
What is your favourite food? I love fruit
What do you like most about our school? The play equipment
What are your strengths? Writing words
What would you like to be when you grow up ? A hairdresser
Clean out the closets, tidy the toy box and spare a tin of soup – a new project at Forbes is calling for donations to meet community need.
CatholicCare WilcanniaForbes has launched its Care and Share Appeal to bring relief and dignity to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
The organisation’s Safe Homes team is collecting donations of essential items at Forbes until July 31 for a ‘pop-up store’ for clients during Homelessness Week in August.
CatholicCare WilcanniaForbes Safe Homes portfolio manager Michelle Hunt said while rough sleeping was one form
of homelessness, other forms that were less visible included couchsurfing, short-term or temporary accommodation, and severe overcrowding.
“In 2023-24, more than 550 clients turned to our Forbes-Parkes team for support through the Specialist Homelessness Services program,” Mrs Hunt said.
CatholicCare WilcanniaForbes Safe Homes Forbes-Parkes delivery leader Umima Austral said the appeal was about meeting more than physical needs.
“We plan to set up the collection of items like a real store to provide a warm, respectful experi-
ence for our clients,” Ms Austral said.
“People deserve a dignified and thoughtful experience while seeking support.
“We hope the community will jump on board and share good-quality items they no longer need or donate non-perishable food or toiletries to those who find themselves in need at this time.”
Donations can be brought to the organisation’s Forbes branch at 136 Lachlan Street until Thursday July 31.
Blankets, clothing and toys of a safe, clean and good-quality standard, as well as toiletries, nonperishable food and wom-
en’s health items are welcomed.
The CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes team will then prepare the pop-up store event for clients. Homelessness Week starts on Monday August 4 and CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes will also mark the occasion with a family fun day for the community on Wednesday August 6 at Forbes Youth Action Centre from 11am to 2pm. CatholicCare WilcanniaForbes will also host a Homelessness Week event at Parkes on Monday August 4, featuring a slow cooked lunch, information display, vouchers and lucky door prizes.
When there are bushfires, floods or storms, Emergency Services issue simple warnings to help you make faster, safer decisions. There are three warning levels:
Yellow Advice level means you’re not in danger yet but stay alert.
Orange Watch and Act level means start taking action now. Conditions are changing.
Red Emergency Warning level means take action immediately. Any delay puts your life at risk.
Emergencies can escalate quickly, so staying alert is important.
Learn more at nsw.gov.au/GetReadyNSW
Poppy Gurney in year two at Parkes East Public School is our student of the week.
CCWF SAFE HOMES FORBES-PARKES DELIVERY LEADER UMIMA AUSTRAL AND HOUSING SUPPORT WORKER MARINDA ACHESON WITH SOME OF THE BLANKETS AND TOYS DONATED TO THE CARE AND SHARE APPEAL.
The Parkes band over the years
It’s been 30 years since the Parkes Shire Concert Band formed in 1995.
But the group has a long and proud history in the town with roots dating back to the 1890s as a brass band.
Here’s a little look back on the band over the last 30 years in particular.
The band has seen many members and conductors come and go, some as integral members of the band, such as Paul Dawson, Esther and Mal Bruce, Mitch Richards and the Quinn family.
Over the 30-year period many local families have been members of the Parkes Shire Concert Band and Parkes Town Band.
At the end of 2024 the Parkes Shire Concert Band won the Christmas cover competition for the December edition of the NSW Band Association’s magazine called The Music Stand.
Parkes band stalwart Ellen Tom said it was as exciting as “being on the cover of the Rolling Stone!”
KEYWEST
This Swing Band was
music development officer employed by Parkes Shire Council, to meet the needs of the advanced musicians of the Parkes Shire Concert Band. This was to enhance their performance skills.
The Band has performed at various community events. Jazz festivals at Dubbo, Parkes and Forbes, Federation Concerts at Parkes and Forbes in 2001, civic functions, art shows at Parkes and Bogan Gate, and various fundraisers.
All the musicians perform and play solos in many styles - jazz, rock and roll, Latin, and pop.
Keywest also played for the Federation Ball at Trundle in September 2001.
WHERE TO CALL HOME
As Brian Symonds remembers the PSCB accommodation history:
In the late 1950s I joined the Parkes Town Band.
We met in an old shop in Welcome Street opposite Venus and Cowell which is now the Post Office car park. In the early sixties the band had outgrown the accom-
RSL Bowling Club building that was situated where ALDI now is.
With funds raised by the band it was shifted to the park where the new pavilion now stands.
This was refurnished and modified by volunteer labour and the band building funding, which I believe the provision was that council would maintain the building.
Water had collected under the building and undermined its foundations, eventually damaging the building and council finally condemned it. Temporary accommodation was rented from the RTA using the vacant Jehovah Witness Hall on the corner of Mitchell and Clarinda streets.
When Peter Poole was appointed music director, by PSC, he organised to relo cate the band to the top of the swimming pool building where it is today. The build ing was modified with a store room added, carpet was laid with contribution from the band and air conditioners fit ted, paid for by the band from funds saved from a building fund the band had built-up
FREE ANNIVERSARY CONCERT AT 2PM SUNDAY PARKES SERVICES CLUB
The first band conductor
Thanks to the dedicated volunteers at the Henry Parkes Museum, they unearthed the identity and story of the Parkes Brass Band’s first conductor, Robert Thomas Slater-Budd.
Better known as Bob Budd he was born at Watsons Bay in Sydney on 6 June, 1844, and died in Parkes on 1 March, 1916 at age 71.
As a young man he went to Young to find his fortune as a goldminer. He met his wife Susan Beck and they married on 14 October 1868.
The couple had 12 children. In honour of his first daughter (1874) he planted a pine tree outside their home in lower Currajong Street in Parkes. This tree is still standing today.
Bob Budd became a well
known identity of the townhe was the night watchman and bell ringer. His bell and clacker are in the display cab inet. He was one of the first firemen in the fire brigade and also played in the brass section of the Town Band. For many years he was sexton at the cemetery, his duties were to maintain the cemetery and dig the grave site.
Robert Thomas SlaterBudd’s resting place is in the Church of England portion of the Parkes Cemetery.
There is a display of the Parkes Shire Concert Band’s history at the Henry Parkes Museum in celebration of their 30th anniversary where the community and visitors can view it. Thank you to all for putting this together.
FUN FACT
A fun fact from band member Loki Ramsay: Do you know the difference between a brass band and a concert band?
A brass band is a band consisting of only brass instruments and percussion. They are a traditionally English band but commonly found here in Australia too.
Interestingly, they don’t have trumpets either due to how brass bands developed but also because of the brashness of the sound.
Instead, they typically have around 10
cornets, which are like trumpets but typically smaller and more mellow.
A concert band can have any instrument and typically plays less traditional music. They include woodwinds, brass, strings, percussion and any other instrument you can name!
It’s due to the change from being a brass band to being a concert band that banding has been able to continue in Parkes as more than half of our players wouldn’t be able to join brass bands.
Robert Thomas SlaterBudd, unearthed at the Henry Parkes Museum.
Forbes Federation Concert in Victoria Park, Forbes on 4 March 2001 - Peter Poole, Nico Kortekaas, Melinda Richter, Paul Dawson, Alicia Mittelstadt, Esther Redenbach and Donna Cole. PHOTOS: Supplied
A YOUNG CARL REDENBACH WITH THE 2000 OLYMPIC TORCH AND PETER POOLE AS CONDUCTOR.
2019 ELVIS FESTIVAL STREET PARADE
PARKES BRASS BAND ABOUT 1913
National parks are for everyone
So let’s make sure everyone can enjoy them
By SCOTT BARRETT MLC
Living in regional NSW, we’re blessed to have worldrenowned national parks right on our doorstep, from the UNESCO-listed Blue Mountains to the Snowy Mountains and the Warrumbungles.
However these parks do more than protect our pristine environment, they’re a crucial outlet for tourists and families to escape into nature at an affordable price.
From camping, fishing and hiking to exploring 4WD tracks, these parks are crucial for people and families looking to get away.
While for decades this has remained a relatively affordable past time for people from all walks of life, a recent proposal by the NSW Government could put this quintessentially Australian past time out of reach.
A recent consultation paper proposes drastically increasing camping fees – some by up to 600 per cent - in most of the state’s 365 National Park campgrounds, putting at risk what has long been an af-
fordable holiday option for NSW families.
This is simply unacceptable, and the NSW Nationals have taken a strong stand against it.
That’s why I’ve teamed up with filmmaker and camping advocate Michael Atkinson – aka ‘Outback Mike’ – to sponsor an ePetition to Parliament calling for these changes not to go ahead.
The petition, which has more than 12,000 signatures already, also calls for the government to increase the number of campsites to meet the demand, rather than restrict access to the highest bidder.
You can find the petition on the Legislative Council ‘ePetitions open for signature page’ if you’d like to support it. Here is the link: https://www.parliament. nsw.gov.au/lc/Pages/epetitions-list.aspx.
NSW taxpayers have paid for the acquisition, investment and maintenance of these lands for decades upon decades, so it’s only right they should be able to access them for a range of activities where appropriate.
What’s most galling about these changes is that I have recently uncovered, through Parliamentary processes, that the NSW Government has spent almost $300 million expanding the national parks estate by 800,000 hectares in just five years.
Expanding our parks is pointless if we can’t care for what we already have or if rising costs lock out ordinary people.
No one wants to camp at a ground overrun with thistles, or walk along a trail ransacked by pigs, especially not at the prices being proposed in this new model.
As someone who has enjoyed national parks right across Australia, I know how important it is that everyone has the chance to explore these special places. That’s why I’ve sponsored this petition and will continue to push against the proposal as it progresses.
Scott Barrett MLC is a member of the Upper House of NSW Parliament and the Nationals Duty MLC for the Orange and Barwon electorates.
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Chaffey’s Corner: Welcome to vast new electorate
By JAMIE CHAFFEY MP, FEDERAL MEMBER FOR PARKES
This is my first column as the Federal Member for Parkes, an electorate that covers more than 400,000 square kilometres of NSW. It’s an area bigger than Japan, Germany, or even Great Britain.
I follow in the footsteps of some great Federal Members, most recently the Honourable Mark Coulton who ably represented this community for 18 years.
There have been boundary changes to the Parkes electorate and we warmly welcome the Forbes, Bland and Parkes shires to the electorate.
The Gwydir Shire has now become part of the New England electorate.
I am committed to serving the people of the Parkes electorate, and it has been my great pleasure to meet and listen to people across this vast region over the past 10 months during the Federal Election campaign and in the weeks since.
My respect has only grown for the residents and businesspeople across this region.
As I travelled 36,000 kilometres during the election campaign, I learnt more about the challenges people face in Broken Hill and Bourke, in Moree, Narrabri, Parkes and Walgett, and in many more towns and villages.
People on the land achieve great things despite the tyranny of distance, but they deserve the same levels
of education, of healthcare, and of safety. They deserve to live as long as their cousins in the city, to have the same opportunities to thrive, and to enjoy a great lifestyle.
Regional New South Wales is the heartland of so many vital commodities. It serves as the backbone of our state in so many ways. Our people need and deserve to be supported, so they can continue to stay and thrive in regional, rural and remote areas.
I thank the people in the Parkes electorate for electing me to serve them.
I remain committed to working for a better future for regional Australia, and look forward to meeting so many more people throughout this great electorate.
first-cross ewes and Ridge haven rams, he added.
“Unbelievable” was how Mr Chudleigh described the sale.
“We’ve still got a lot of Queensland sheep there, a lot of northern NSW sheep, even western Riverina sheep coming up which is great to see.”
as “phenomenal”.
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“They all weighed over 90 kg and up to 114kg, 115kg,” he said.
“He’s grown them out well, taken his time with them and been rewarded.”
The next top pen, also presented by Goimbla, sold for $437 a head.
It was only a matter of weeks ago on Tuesday, 10 June, that the top run of lambs made $400 for the first time at the Forbes sale, the national record at that time held by Victorian yards.
Fast forward a month to Tuesday, 15 July and Forbes set a national record of $454 with three pens surpassing the previous record.
The region and livestock exchange are proving their pulling power as well as the strength of our own production.
“Lambs have travelled distances to come to the market,” Chudleigh said.
With lower yardings resulting from drought down south, the demand from processors continues and this region has had a decent enough season to be able to hold on to stock.
While the extra heavyweight lambs were destined for export, Tuesday’s sale saw a continued excellent prices for trade lambs on a cents per kilo basis, Mr Chudleigh said.
“Good domestic trade lambs are making $11 and $12.50 a kilo,” he said.
“Another really good highlight of today’s market was that we saw probably 1000 new season lambs, not even six months old, they made anywhere from $280 to $304 - that’s massive.”
Tuesday’s records in the sheep sale followed a Monday cattle sale auctioner Adam Chudleigh described
Central West Livestock Exchange put the spotlight on a pen of 16 Angus steers that sold for 497c a kilo through Kevin Miller Whitty Lennon and Co.
Our shire’s livestock agents have all reflected on the strength of recent markets, with plenty of highlights for each to share across the sheep and cattle in the different markets.
“We’ve got both northern and southern processors competing and also northern and southern feedlotters competing (for cattle),” Mr Chudleigh said.
“So it’s a very good time for the livestock sector.
“Not that long ago we were selling the same weight lambs (as Tuesday’s top price pen) and flat out getting $200 for them,” Mr Chudleigh said.
“It might not be there forever but at the moment we’ll ride the high.”
Friday, 25 July is the monthly store cattle sale at the selling centre.
National Tree Day, rain on the way
LOOKING AT LANDCARE
By MARG APPLEBEE, CENTRAL WEST LACHLAN LANDCARE
We are now just days away from National Tree Day and we are looking forward to some rain!
It is fantastic to have rain in the lead up to and post event.
We will just be keeping an eye on the forecast and if we need to postpone, we will share information via our Facebook page.
We will also do our best to notify people who have registered.
An advantage of registering is that we can notify you directly, so please register!
Central West Lachlan Landcare is once again working with Forbes and Parkes Shire Councils
to deliver National Tree Day activities.
We are pleased to be heading out to a site off the Bogan Way in the Goldridge Estate on Saturday, 26
July to provide a green buffer for the site.
We look forward to working with Forbes Shire Council once again.
We are heading back out to the
Parkes Wetlands for planting on Sunday, 27 July.
This area has evolved beautifully since our last planting at the site.
Parkes’ former Sewage Treatment Plant maturation ponds are now taking shape as a high-value, hydrologically complex wetland, capable of supporting a diverse range of native fauna and flora.
Our plantings work in with the naturally occurring Fuzzy Box species that occur in the area surrounding Akuna Road.
To find out more details about Forbes and Parkes National Tree Day visit our social media or the Planet Ark website.
Of course, you can always go directly to the National Tree Day website for further information.
Make sure that you take the time to find out about what you are planting and how it might contribute in the long term to the local environment.
This is a fantastic opportunity for our community to come together, plant a tree or shrub, create some memories and meet new people.
At both sites, we kick off at 10am and we will be cranking up the barbecue for lunch, so we would really appreciate registrations via the Planet Ark website.
If you can’t register online, drop me a line on 0418 611 053.
For further information on this article, please go to www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org, Twitter, Facebook or Instagram @cwllandcare
Yearling steers sell to 497c/kg, extra heavyweights sell to $460/head
CATTLE SALE
Monday, 21 July
Yarding 1480 (up 355)
Numbers lifted this sale with agents yarding 1480 head. Quality was fair with some excellent runs of well bred cattle offered along with the secondary types.
Yearlings made up the majority of the offering along with a handy run of cows.
There was an extra buyer present and competing in a very buoyant market.
Yearling steers lifted 20c/kg with feeders paying from 400 to 497c/kg for middle and heavyweights.
Those to processors sold from 400 to 434c/kg. The heifer portion was also 20c to 30c better with those to feed receiving from 370 to 445c/kg.
Processors paid from 380c to 440c/kg for the better types.
Heavy steers and bullocks reached 434c/kg.
Grown heifers ranged from 350 to 438c/kg. Cows jumped 15
to 25c with heavy 2 score from 315c to 345c and 3 score 340 to 384c/kg.
The best heavy bull reached 336c/kg.
SHEEP SALE
Tuesday, 22 July
Yarding 59,050 (up 8900)
Numbers jumped this sale with agents drawing for 59,000 head.
Lamb numbers increased to 42,250 though quality was reduced from the previous sale.
There was a large percentage of plainer lambs penned though there was still some quality lines of finished trade and export lambs penned.
The usual buyers were present and competing in a market that fluctuated with quality but averaged fairly firm and also saw a new record set.
A few pens of new season lambs sold from $271 to $312/ head.
Trade weight lambs 20-24kg
sold from $220 to $310/head.
Heavy lambs to 26kg received from $254 to $336/head.
Extra heavyweights sold from $330 to a new national record of $460/head.
Carcase prices averaged from 1095 to 1287c/kg. The best heavy hoggets reached $293/head.
There was 16800 mutton drawn for and quality was very mixed.
Merinos made up the majority and prices remained strong, Me rino ewes sold from $130 to $278/ head.
Crossbreds received from $156 to $280 and Dorper ewes reached $250/head.
Merino wethers sold from $171 to $268/head.
FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVE-
STORE CATTLE SALE
The Forbes store cattle sale will be held on Friday, 25 July at the Forbes Central West Live stock Exchange commencing at 10am.
Ryan, Jacob and Flynn Swindle and Rachel Swindle, and Brooke Hennock at 2024 National Tree Day in Parkes. PHOTO: Supplied
This pen of extra heavyweights sold to a new national record of $460/head on Tuesday by MCC Chudleigh Dobell. PHOTO: Forbes Shire Council
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
4 Name an item used in weightlifting (7)
8 Which social worker is attached to a hospital (7)
9 To postpone to a future meeting, is to do what (7)
10 Which disease is known as the bends (7)
11 Name another term for a garbage can (7)
12 What is a token, or an indication (6)
14 Name a piece of photographic apparatus (6)
18 Which number is one thousand times one thousand (7)
21 What is used for preventive inoculation (7)
22 What is the official proving of a will as authentic (7)
23 To be staggering, is to be doing what (7)
24 Name the final course of a meal (7)
DOWN
1 What is the dead body of an animal (7)
2 Which term describes the boundary of something (5)
3 Name the loss of the sense of smell (7)
4 Which spirit is distilled from the fermented juice of grapes (6)
5 What, in India, are kings or princes called (5)
6 To be free from variations, is to be what (7)
7 Which fabric is woven from flax yarns (5)
13 Name an alternative term for a scaffold (7)
15 What are Parisian gangsters called (7)
16 Which term relates to a large allotment of rural land (7)
E-QUATIONS 7
Letters have a number value
E-QUATIONS
Some values are in the right hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
17 To turn upside down, is to do what (6)
18 What is a light, lowpowered motorcycle, equipped with pedals (5)
19 To be angry, is to be what (5)
20 Name some flightless birds of New Zealand (5)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
WHICH WORDS
BIYWORD
Build it yourself using the clues and each of the twenty-four letters once only to form ten words: five across and five down. A key word (bold clue) builds on the letter set in the grid.
CLUES:
Before (poet.) (3)
Corundum mix for grinding (5)
Equals (5)
Made a mistake (5)
Propose: ... the question (3)
Small printers’ measures (3)
State of great suffering (7)
Time period (3)
Top quality (5)
Mid-19th century war (7)
Solve the crossword. Each answer has four letters.
Average Australian dwelling price reaches $1 million
If you thought buying a home across our region was expensive, spare a thought for our city cousins, facing average home prices well into the millions.
The total value of Australia’s residential dwellings rose by $130.7 billion (1.2 per cent) to $11.4 trillion in the March quarter 2025, according to figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
Dr Mish Tan, ABS head of finance statistics, said despite the rise, growth has slowed in housing prices.
“The national mean price of residential dwellings passed $1 million for the first time in the March quarter 2025, rising 0.7 per cent to $1,002,500.
“Western Australia, South Australia and Queensland were the main drivers of the rise, with Queensland reaching the second highest mean price in Australia, behind New South Wales,” Dr Tan said.
“Despite the quarterly rise in national dwelling value, annual growth in the March quarter slowed to 5.9 per cent.
“This was down from 9.5 per cent in March quarter 2024.”
In Cowra, home prices have risen by nearly 2 per cent in the previous year, reaching an average price of $385,000 for a three-bedroom home, or $525,000 for a four-bedroom home.
In Young, the time on the market for a three bedroom home is less than half of that in Cowra, at 40 days, with an average price of $450,000, and $550,000 for a four-bedroom house.
Forbes sat firmly in the middle for the region, with an average 99 days on
Contract awarded, Bells Line safety upgrade in sights
One of the most historic roads in New South Wales is getting a suite of upgrades, with the contract awarded to assess the road and develop strategic options for $100 million in safety improvements to the Bells Line of Road.
Bells Line is one of the key routes into the city and traffic numbers are increasing, but it has been heavily impacted by extreme weather from floods to fires, a joint statement from state and federal governments to media said.
A civil engineering specialist firm has won a tender to investigate and identify upgrade options, which will support future works.
A range of improvements are being considered including new overtaking lanes, realigning curves, installing safety barriers and intersection upgrades.
NSW Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said the Bells Line was an important connection, and pointed out it has a crash rate higher than other similar NSW roads.
In Parkes, four-bedroom homes spent an average of 150 days on the market, selling for a median price of $523,000, where three-bedroom houses sold for $415,000.
market for a three-bedroom home, and eclipsing Cowra’s 113 day wait on fourbedrooms, with a 124 days on the market in Forbes.
A three-bedroom home in Forbes would set buyers back a median $360,000, or $608,000 for a four-bedroom house.
In Parkes, four-bedroom homes spent an average of 150 days on the market, selling for a median price of $523,000, where three-bedroom houses sold for $415,000.
The larger auction market also revealed an average clearance rate of 45 per cent, and 54 per cent for respective homes.
A total of 15 homes were sold in Canowindra in the last 12 months, too
small to record a median price, Boorowa also saw 15 homes change hands.
Grenfell saw 17 homes sold over the same period, along with one unit.
According to Domain Group’s latest Price Forecast Report, home prices are set to climb higher in the year ahead, putting more pressure on already stretched budgets.
Domain’s Chief of Research and Economics Dr Nicola Powell warned continued growth could push more young Australians out of the market entirely.
“The latest data is a reality check for many – if you’re trying to break into the property market, the next year could be your toughest challenge yet, ” Dr Powell said.
“The road is very vulnerable to closures from bushfires and landslips, which result in delays for motorists and makes it difficult to manage traffic during incidents,” Ms Aitchison said.
“Transport for NSW will engage with local councils and other targeted stakeholders to make sure that options put forward align with council and community aspirations. This will help ensure that upgrades will benefit both local traffic, and the commuters, tourists and freight operators who travel along it every day.”
Catherine King, Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, said Bells Line was a key link.
“As local tourism businesses in Bilpin and surrounding regions boom, the road is getting busier and ensuring it has the necessary safety and resilience improvements is essential,” Ms King said. “The Blue Mountains is one of Australia’s most beloved national parks, so as we proceed, we’ll ensure the future upgrades are designed to minimise heritage and conservation impacts,” she said.
6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 9.00 Shopping. 10.30 House Rules. 12.00 The Resident.
6.00 Rage Charts. 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Grantchester. 1.15 Patience. 2.05 All Creatures Great And Small. 2.55 Great Southern Landscapes. 3.25 Earth. 4.25 Spicks And Specks. 4.55 Dr Ann’s Secret Lives. 5.30 Landline. 6.00 Australian Story. 6.30 Back Roads. 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Grantchester. 8.20 Midsomer Murders. 9.50
6.00 Shopping. 8.30 Better Homes. 11.00 Harry’s Practice. 11.30 GetOn Extra. 12.00 Room For Improvement. 12.30 Last Chance Learners. 1.00 Better Homes. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 5.00 Slow Train Through Africa. 6.00 Every Bite Takes You Home. 6.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 1.30 Late Programs.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. 12.00 Horse Racing. Industry Celebration Day, Caulfield Season Finale and Saturday Raceday. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. 6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Great Outdoors. 7.30 Mysteries Of The Pyramids. New. 8.30 MOVIE: The Da Vinci Code. (2006) Tom Hanks, Audrey Tautou, Ian McKellen. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Blokesworld. 1.30 Teeing Off With Daisy Thomas. 2.00 Seven’s Motorsport Classic. 2.30 Motor Racing. Shannons SpeedSeries. Round 4. Day 1. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 Pawn Stars. 9.30 American Pickers. 10.30 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. NZ Warriors v Titans. 2.30 NRLW Wrap. 3.15 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Roosters v Canterbury Bulldogs. 5.00 News. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 Rugby Union. British & Irish Lions Tour. Aust v British & Irish Lions. 10.00 Test Rugby: Australia v British & Irish Lions Post-Match. 10.15 MOVIE: Creed. (2015) 12.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.10 Good Chef Bad Chef. 12.30 The Brighter Side: Save. Grow. Dream. 1.00 Buy To Build. 1.30 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures. 2.30 All 4 Adventure. 3.30 Farm To Fork. 4.00 My Market Kitchen. 4.30 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield. 5.00
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.35 Heartbreak High. 3.25 A Bite To Eat. 3.55 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Car S.O.S. 6.15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 7.05 House Of Games. 7.35 QI. 8.05 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 8.55 Wil Anderson: Wilogical. 9.55 Extras. 10.55 ER. 11.40 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00
Over Under Adv. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. Return. 8.00 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.40 Chopped Jnr. 9.20 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.05 Speechless. 10.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.30 MOVIE: The Ghost Of St. Michael’s. (1941) 2.15 MOVIE: The Pride And The Passion. (1957) 5.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 4. North Queensland Cowboys v Canberra Raiders. 7.00 Keeping Up Appearances. 7.30 MOVIE: Bride Wars. (2009) 9.20 MOVIE: Sex And The City 2. (2010) 12.20 Late Programs. 6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 The Big Adventure. 12.30 Wife Swap Australia. 1.55 My Ireland With Colin. 2.55 Black-ish. 3.25 America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League. 5.25 MOVIE: Spies In Disguise. (2019) 7.30 MOVIE: Under The Tuscan Sun. (2003) 9.45 MOVIE: Charlie’s Angels. (2000) 11.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Eels v Knights. 1.30 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Dragons v Broncos. 3.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 21. Canterbury Bulldogs v Manly Sea Eagles. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 The Block. Return. 8.55 60 Minutes. 10.00 World Aquatics Championships. Singapore 2025. Day 1. Finals. 11.00 9News Late. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 10 Minute Kitchen. 11.00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine Schofield. 11.30 Cook With Luke. 12.00 MasterChef Australia. 1.10 Good Chef Bad Chef. 1.30 Charming China. 2.00 Planet Shapers.
Morning Programs. 8.00 David Jeremiah. 8.30 Shopping. 9.00 Better Homes. 10.00 The Zoo. 10.30 Escape To The Country. 1.30 Harry’s Practice. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. 3.00 Your Money & Your Life. 3.30 The Zoo. 4.20 Escape To The Country. 7.20 Vicar Of Dibley. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 Vicar Of Dibley. 11.40 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 11.30 Aussie Mates, Their Lawns & Barbies. 12.00 The Fishing Show By AFN. 1.00 Fishing Addiction. 2.00 Fish’n Mates. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 20. St Kilda v Melbourne. 6.00 The Wash Up. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: Taken 3. (2014) 10.45 MOVIE: Battleship. (2012) 1.25 Late Programs.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A misunderstanding tests the temperament of the sometimes headstrong Aries. But instead of blowing your top, take time for a pleasant diversion while things cool down.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) A workplace problem could make the divine Bovine see red, but talk it out before you consider walking out. Some surprising facts emerge that could change your earlier focus.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) You face a choice between ignoring your uneasy feelings about your relationship with a special person and demanding explanations. A close friend offers wise counsel.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A change you’d been hoping for carries an unexpected complication. Stay the course, and things will work themselves out. Also, be sure to make time for family and friends.
6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 10.15 Behave Yourself. 11.15 America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League. 1.20 Home And Away. 4.00 Dancing With The Stars. 5.30 Gold Coast Ocean Rescue. 6.00 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 7.00 MOVIE: The Proposal. (2009) 9.20 MOVIE: Made Of Honor. (2008) 11.25 Bones. 12.25 Lie To Me. 1.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.30 Getaway. 3.00 Are You Being Served? 3.30 MOVIE: Khartoum. (1966) 6.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 4. Cronulla Sharks v Wests Tigers. 8.00 M*A*S*H. 9.00 World Aquatics Championships. Singapore 2025. Day 1. Finals. 10.00 TBA. 12.00 Late Programs.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) Aspects favor spending time with loved ones. On the job, new ideas are generally welcomed, but some demands for changes could cause problems. Be ready to defend your choices.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Good news: A workplace problem is close to being resolved with results that should please everyone. Take time off to indulge in your love of fun and games.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Most of the time, you are the most unflappable person around. But be ready to be thrown offbalance in the nicest way when Cupid takes aim in your direction.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) It’s not often when someone tries to “sting” the sharp-witted Scorpion, but it can happen. Continue to be skeptical about anything that seems too good to be true.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Your strong sense of self-esteem helps you serve as a role model for someone who needs personal reassurances. Your efforts pay off in an unexpected way.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Someone close considers revealing a painful secret. Withhold judgment. Instead, open your generous heart and offer dollops of your love and understanding.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Your talents as a peacemaker are called upon once more as an old problem reemerges with new complications. Move cautiously to avoid falling into hidden traps.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Your artistic side is enhanced with the reception given to your new project. Use this success as encouragement toward fulfilling your larger goals.
Guinness World Record glory for Sherrie
■ From page 1.
she equalled the record of 20,000kg at 11.18am, breaking it a minute later with a 360kg set.
“There’s sweat, tears but no blood,” Sherrie laughed just moments after breaking the Guinness record.
She finished with a bang too, lifting 70kg in her final four lifts in the few minutes remaining to get her to 23,950kg.
“I feel good, I’m shaking,” she said.
Sherrie began to feel the pinch and the weight of the challenge half-way in, when she dropped back to 30kg, but she pushed on.
There was a much bigger reason behind her record attempt too - she was doing this to honour a dear friend lost to suicide, Heath, and mental health overall.
Through pushing herself, Sherrie wanted to promote positive mental health.
“There was another reason why I did this today which was to piggyback the message of mental health,” she said.
“I lost someone close to me and all I ask is if you’re struggling to please go and talk to someone, anything can be fixed, just go and talk to someone.
“3000 people die by suicide every year... Coming to the gym is my therapy.”
Sherrie encourages people struggling to “share the load”.
“I lifted a lot today but I didn’t do it alone, I had a group of people cheering me on and helping me push through it,” she said.
“Speak up, don’t carry it.”
Sherrie also took a moment to
ian Champion Masters powerlifter - she started this journey training under Rob.
Anytime Fitness Forbes manager
Zara Crawford, who helped with time keeping and refereeing, de scribed Sherrie’s achievement as incredible.
“We’re very proud of you,” she told Sherrie.
“Sherrie brings a special ener gy... She’s a big advocate for mental health and we wanted to support her through this.”
Colleague and personal trainer
D-Arne Gunn was also a time keep er and counter; personal trainer
Haylee Redfern from Forbes was referee, time keeper and special ist witness; Rachel Crawford from Orange was the plate-loader and helper; Justice of the Peace Kerry Hessel from Forbes was an inde pendent witness; and Parkes man Chris Williams from RSN Live was the videographer.
Sherrie certainly isn’t done with Guinness World Record attempts just yet - she’s already started plan ning another for next year, with no date planned as yet.
She wants to break the heaviest one arm deadlift which currently stands at 100kg.
“So far I can lift 90kg to the knee,” Sherrie said.
“I’m aiming for 101.25kg.”
How Sherrie was introduced to one-arm deadlifting and ultimately soon to have her name written in the Guinness World Record books came as a result of a car accident in Newcastle three and a half years
SHERRIE AT THE START OF HER GUINNESS WORLD RECORD ATTEMPT TO LIFT THE MOST WEIGHT IN AN HOUR BY A ONE ARM DEADLIFT AT ANYTIME FITNESS FORBES, BEGINNING WITH 40KG 10 TIMES EVERY MINUTE.
her right forearm in the collision, which later needed surgery to insert plates and pins.
Sherrie was already largely involved in strongman competitions but was uncertain if she could con
one arm), and it didn’t take long for the other arm to recover and catch up.”
There’s been no time for rest after Sunday’s effort, Sherrie was straight back at work at 6am on Monday and she’s in the middle of training for the World Deadlifting Championships that take place in
The first part of these titles were in March where Sherrie broke the silver dollar deadlift world record in her division on 29 March. Resources are available to help those who need it: Call Lifeline 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 or chat online; Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467; Beyond Blue 1300
attempt that took place at Anytime Fitness Forbes on Sunday.
An elated and relieved Sherrie takes a moment once the Guinness World Record attempt was over.
Sherrie Williams finished with a bang too, lifting 70kg in her final four lifts in the few minutes remaining.
Sherrie Williams had just proudly passed the 20,000kg Guinness World Record.
Sherrie dropped to 30kg for most of the last half of the hour during her Guinness World record attempt. Referee and specialist witness Haylee Redfern (right) records the attempt.
Team Went wins men’s Major Fours
PARKES BOWLS
By COL MILLER
Hi all what a weekend of bowls in the beautiful sunny conditions. We had the Men’s Major Fours played.
At 9.30am on Saturday morning on Rink 2 Jock Townsend, Shane Hodge, Brian Townsend and Warwick Parker took on Guy Ellery, Mick Simpson, Andrew Reynolds and Mark Fitzalan.
strong positive manner and had a lead of 10 to 4 in the 9th end then managed a 6 shot win in the 10th.
get into the game with the Parker team winning 22 to 10 and moving on to the next round.
Tomkins, Nathan Reynolds and Dave Reilly had big win over Alec Bateson, Joe Davies, Jake Brown and Steve Turner.
the Turner team into the game winning 30 to 7 allowing the Reilly team to move on to the next Round.
Darryl McKellar, Mick Tomkins, Nathan Reynolds and Dave Reilly came up against Mark Glasheen, Tony Riordan, Gary McPhee and Brett Frame.
This was a close game and in the 10th end the Frame team were in front 10 to 5 by the 13th end the score was 10 all.
In the 18th end the score was 14 all. In the next two ends the Reilly team managed to gain 4 shots to lead 18 to 14.
In the last end the Frame team could only gain a 1 shot win so went down 18 to 15 allowing the Reilly team to progress to the Final
The Reilly team seemed to get stuck on the number 9 all though playing some good bowls.
The Went team won the next 8 ends straight to take the lead 24 to 9, the Reilly team grabbed 4 shots late in the game but the winners on the day were the Went team 25 to 13.
A big thankyou to Liz Byrne for umpiring on the weekend.
There was a Minor Pairs Semi
Ladies celebrate tu-tu Tuesday in style
hence our “tutu” day, to be cele brated when we play social bowls on this date!
The club was abuzz early with tulle n tiaras galore, bright col ours, laughs and jollity in our dress-up gear! And all without a wine...
Two two games of social bowls were arranged in very blustery conditions!
On Rink 17, skip Brenda D led her team of Lea O/Joan S/Lynn R to a grand plie victory with her classic technique over Cherie F/ Lil T/Irene A.
Many complaints of tutu nar row or tutu soft as the wind steered our bowls every which way!
Birthday girl, Irene T, began
her company at times on Rink 18. They were out-performed by Gwenda
cake, thanks to Lynn!
Today’s raffle won by Joan S. 100’s club cash for Lorraine, Lil and Lea.
Jackpot not won by rink 18 and rises to $260. Club fees are now due and may be paid over the bar.
There have been several recent birthdays, so birthday pavlovas shall be served on the 29th for everybody.
The next Trading Table will have an “Australiana” theme on 12 August.
Nominations are open for Club Major Singles and close on 5 August.
Tuesday (15 July) was a day of recognition and celebration of Joan Simpson’s 90th birthday!
We lowly ordinary members were in awe of the 64-year record of Joan’s bowls career, from her accomplishments on the green at home and away in a representative role, to her years of service within the club.
She has witnessed changes in women’s uniforms, rules, black bowls to colour among others during her decades of involvement.
We love you Joanie, we hope we can see you roll up when you hit 100!
Charlton nears perfect score
PARKES SSAA
By GRAEME DAVIS
Last Sunday saw 10 shooters attend the small bore rifle range and shot foxes at both the 25 and 50 metres for a total of 530.55 points, conditions were perfect and this was reflected in some very good scores.
TARGET RIFLES: 25m, 50m, total
• Jeff Charlton 280.25, 250.24, 530.49. Brian Drabsch 279.23, 250.23, 529.46.
• Ron Cunningham 278.21, 250.23, 528.44.
• David Tanks 279.23, 249.17, 528.40. FIELD RIFLES
• John Maddison 280.26, 249.16, 529.42.
• Alan Briton 280.24, 246.16, 526.40. Four shot for practice only. Next shoot is Sunday, 27 July commencing at 10am and will be round targets at both ranges.
Sports grant opportunity
The NSW Office of Sport’s local sports grant program is now open. This annual grants program aims to support grassroots sporting clubs to increase participation, host events, improve access and enhance sport and recreation facilities.
As much as $50,000 is on offer in each electorate and grants of up to $20,000 are available for individual projects.
The minimum request must be $2000. Orange MP Phil Donato is encouraging local sporting organisations to apply.
“Last year Forbes Netball Association, Orange City Rugby Union Club, Orange Basketball Association and Colour City Dragon Boats were among recipients, helping projects like coaching clinics, watering systems and the purchase of gym equipment,” he said.
Applications close on August 18 and can be submitted online at https://sport. smartygrants.com.au/LSGP-2025.
Outcomes of the grants will be advised from February 2026 onwards.
C/Kay C/Lorraine B and
PARKES LADY BOWLERS IN THEIR TU-TUS FOR TU-TU TUESDAY ON THE 22 JULY. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
PARKES WEEKEND SCOREBOARD
HERE are the scores and draws for Parkes Shire teams in competitions across the Central West.
SOCCER
Western Premier League Round 12: Macquarie United 7 def Parkes Cobras 0.
Round 13 draw: Parkes Cobras v Orange Waratah at Parkes.
First grade: Mudgee Dragons v Orange Hawks. Lithgow Workies v Bathurst Panthers. Dubbo CYMS v Dubbo Macquarie Raiders. Bathurst St Pats v Orange CYMS. Nyngan Tigers v Wellington Cowboys.
Woodbridge Cup
Round 13:
First grade: Trundle Boomers forfeit to Orange United Warriors. Cargo Blue Heelers 54 def Grenfell Goannas 6. Oberon Tigers 47 def Eugowra Golden Eagles 10. Manildra Rhinos 24 def Canowindra Tigers 22. Molong Bulls 42 def Condobolin Rams 28. Cowra Magpies 51 def Peak Hill Roosters 22. Blayney Bears bye.
League tag: Trundle Boomers forfeit to Orange United Warriors. Cargo Blue Heelers 28 def Grenfell Goannas 14. Eugowra Golden Eagles 42 def Oberon Tigers 6. Manildra Rhinos 28 def Canowindra Tigers 6. Molong Bulls 44 def Condobolin Rams 0. Cowra Magpies 26 def Peak Hill Roosters 4.
Round 14 draw:
First grade and league tag: Peak Hill Roosters v Grenfell Goannas. Trundle Boomers v Eugowra Golden Eagles. Canowindra Tigers v Cowra Magpies. Manildra Rhinos v Orange United Warriors. Blayney Bears v Oberon Tigers. Condobolin Rams v Cargo Blue Heelers. Molong Bulls bye.
RUGBY UNION
Round 13:
First grade: Parkes Boars 101 def CSU Mitchell 5. Second grade: Parkes Boars 89 def CSU Mitchell 7.
Women’s: Parkes Boars 33 def CSU Mitchell 17.
Colt’s under 19s: Parkes Boars 31 def Orange Emus 22.
Round 14 draw:
First and second grade: Narromine Gorillas v Parkes Boars.
Women’s: Yeoval Eagles v Parkes Boars. Colt’s under 19s: Parkes Boars v Forbes Platypi.
Central West AFL Tier 2
Round 10:Parkes Panthers 10.4.64 def Cowra Blues 5.6.36.
Round 11 draw: Bathurst Bushrangers v Parkes Panthers.
HOCKEY
Central West Premier League Hockey
Women’s:
Round 10: Orange United 2 def Parkes United 1. Lithgow Panthers 3 def Parkes
United 1.
Round 11 draw: Bathurst St Pats v Parkes United at Bathurst.
Men’s:
Round 7 draw: Orange Wanderers v Parkes United. Parkes United v Lithgow Workies.
RUGBY LEAGUE
Jock Colley Oval was a buzz on Sunday as our Parkes Spacemen faced Mudgee Dragons in what was a 2024 Peter McDonald Premiership grand final rematch.
It was an impressive game from our Spacemen with the team earning themselves a 34-20 win consisting of six tries and five successful conversions.
The last time the Spacemen came up against Mudgee Dragons it was no victory
going down 46-16 but their supporters were happy to see it was a different story on Sunday.
Major sponsors of the Spacemen, the Coachmen Hotel took to social media on Tuesday to say it was one of the best games they have watched the Spacies play.
This round 12 win earnt the Spacemen their fifth win of the season and their third win in five rounds.
Sunday’s win might have come to a surprise for some with
the Dragons currently 4th on the Peter McDonald Premiership ladder and our Spacemen currently 9th.
MATTHEW WAUWE KICKED FIVE CONVERSIONS.
Dave Brown best on the green at stableford
PARKES GOLF
By PETER BRISTOL
On Saturday we played an 18 hole Stableford event spon sored by Max Keith and Michael Thomas.
The two young guns have been supporting their club for a number of years via this event and other activities, and we are grateful for their ongoing asso ciation.
The player numbers have been on the up over the last few weeks and this Saturday there were 71 players out and about searching for those elusive birdies.
Best on the day was Dave Brown with a tearaway 42 points. His round included 2 birdies, and 39 off the stick on the front nine plus 2 misses on the back.
the
There would have been some lamenting over what could have been after handing that card in.
But good to see Dave at least getting somewhere near to his summer scores.
Michael Dellaca is lucky he got those rickety footballers knees fixed as he is having to climb the podium on a regular basis now.
His 39 point haul also included a birdie and a 39 on the back 9.
That 18 handicap that he played off will be a distant memory once the handicapper visits.
Mel Matthews was next in with a 38 as she also recaptures some form with Phill Smith and Robert Hey also breaking stableford par for the event with their 37s.
The Handiskins preliminary event draws to a close this weekend with the top four players set
to play off in the final later in the year.
It is a tight run affair with the scores a little down on past years so there are opportunities to still make the final.
Typically 3 par rounds is sufficient to get a spot in the fab 4 at the end but this year Trevor Chatman on 106, Mel Matthews 104, Richard Hutchinson 103 and Col Braeden 101 are the final 4 leading into the last round.
The other contenders still with a chance if the leaders falter are Aaron Gaffey, Lindsay Elliott, Gordon Pritchard, Brendan Hill, Ron Hetherington, Aaron Wilkie, Craig Matthews and Ian Phipps.
This will make for an exciting
finish with probably only Trevor assured of a spot in the final at
The Nearest The Pins winners were – Bridgestone Mining 1st Jack Elliott at 560cm, Griffins Leading Edge by Justin Middleton at 154cm, Parkes Ready Mixed Concrete 9th by Phil Smith at 53cm, the Westlime 11th by Phil Bishop at 580cm, the Gulf Western Oil 17th by Rod Luyt at 220cm.
The lucrative money hole was
Ball winners were Melissa Matthews 38, Michael Haydon, Phill Smith, Rob Hey 37, Wayne Powter, Phil Bishop, John Green 36.
This week is a Stable ford event which doubles as the last round
VETERANS GOLF
By JOHN DWYER
Last Thursday’s Lachlan Valley Veteran Golf Association monthly 18-hole tournament played in Forbes showed there is still plenty of interest in the competition with 63 players taking part despite the ‘freezing’ start to the day.
Starter and MC for the day Allan Rees, as expected, covered all bases thanking all those who travelled making the tournament such a success. Thanks also to course curator Jack Elliott and staff, kitchen and hotel hosts as well as Alf Davies and Beryl and Lyn (Roberts) for recording score cards to resident club professional Will Gunn.
Multiple times club champion Don McKeowen from Bogan Gate
displayed his talents highlighting putting from sand to grass greens stealing the show in A grade winning with 35 points from an improving local talent Andrew Norton-Knight next best on 34 points. In B grade Peter Howorth from West Wyalong appeared to have played a different course blitzing the field with 41 points, while runner-up Warwick Spence from Cowra posted 37 points.
Nearest the pins - 9th A grade Don McKeowen (BG), B grade John Milton (Fbs); 18th A grade Alf Davies (Fbs), B grade Farren Stevens (Grenfell).
The ball sweep went to 30 points and successful Parkes and Forbes players were: 35 points - Gordon Pritchard (P), Ross Williams (F); 34 - Nym Dziuba (P), John Dwyer (P), Frank Hanns (F); 33 - Barry Parker (F), Kim Herbert (F), Peter Scholefield (F), 32 Allan Rees (F), Steve Edwards (BG); 31 - Steve Uphill (F), John Milton (F), 30 Reggie Murray (F), Rod Luyt (P).
In the Coles/Miller Shield Parkes (13 players) and Forbes (21) shared top honors on 104 points from their best three individual scores followed by West Wyalong (10) on 103, Condobolin (8) 90, Grenfell (3) 84 and Bogan Gate (2) 67. While not affiliated with Lachlan Valley Cowra did have six representatives who would have taken the shield with their 108 points.
Forbes will host this week’s twin-towns comp with nominations from 9.30am for a 10am shot-gun start. One for the note pad, next Lachlan Valley event is in Parkes on August 21.
Best on
day at the 18 hole Stableford event was Dave Brown with a tearaway 42 points.
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
It was a special victory for the Parkes Spacemen against the Mudgee Dragons.
Malakai Folau celebrates another try with
Malakai Folau was the first one over the line for the Spacemen. PHOTOS: GD on the Sideline
Improving field confidence
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
For two years Parkes and District Soccer has hosted a six week program aimed at girls to improve their soccer skills, gain confidence, meet new friends and increase their in terest in the sport.
“Our aim was to create a friendly, fun and safe environ ment that inspires and empow ers females to play and develop as players and/or as coaches/ mentors,” Angela Bottaro-Por ter said.
This year the program saw 21 girls eight years and over from Parkes and Eugowra take part in the Parkes Soccer Academy for Girls who were coached by Wayne Osborne and Angela.
The program was made possible thanks to a grant from Football Australia from the Commbank Growing Football Community Grant funding.
The girls developed many
skills over the course of the program including ball control, passing, shooting, heading and 1v1 through games and drills.
The program first took place in 2022 as Parkes does not have a female-only junior competition.
“When they play in mixed teams, male players tend to be more confident and physical so this program allows the girls and ladies to develop their skills in a friendly environment
focusing on improving their in dividual skills.”
The now more confident and skillful soccer players from the 2025 program are Keira, Lau ren, Lexi, Chloe, Isla, Elsie, Indiana, Clara, Charli, ElizaGrace, Maddison, Arrianna, Jazmin, Anabelle, Krista, Mat ilda, Kimberly, Tamika, Frion, Addi and Franki.
“Comments from parents and the girls indicate that this is extremely important as it provides them in a safe envi ronment to ask questions, de velop their skills and gain con
“We saw girls grow in confi dence to tackle and ‘have-a-go’ during all sessions. They had fun and learnt skills which they can apply during their games on Saturday,” Angela added.
Parkes Soccer would also like to thank Parkes High School who provided their hall when the program had to move in doors due to bad weather.
FootyNRL TIPPING
Angela Bottaro-Porter with the senior ladies who took part in the program. Back: Anabelle Cottier and Tamika Meers. Front: Keira Bartrop, Charli Messiter and Kimberley Meers. PHOTOS: Supplied
victory over
ARCHIE DALEY, JETT JOHNSTONE, JORDAN GROSVENOR, ELLY THORNBERRY, SAM QUINCE AND JAMES ROBINSON. PHOTOS: PARKES JUNIOR HOCKEY
Six on national stage
HOCKEY
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Parkes did not lack representation at the National U18 Hockey Championships in Perth, Western Australia which were contested from 4 to 12 July.
Elly Thornberry, Archie Daley, Jett Johnstone, Sam Quince, James Robinson and Alexander Chambers all competed at the championships in what was a hard fought week for them all.
Jett and Sam were in the NSW State team which began the championships with a strong start.
The team won all three of their pool games only conceding one goal placing them at the top of their pool.
This led the team to a repechage game where their winning streak came to end against Queensland Maroon after the game came to a draw.
The teams battled it out in a shootout where Queensland Maroon came out on top.
The team was then up against Queensland Gold in the quarter finals proving that Queensland were too good for NSW winning 2-3 which led NSW to a semi final against Western Australia Gold.
This game was another draw for NSW State ending in a shootout with Western Australia too good 4-1.
NSW were then left to battle it out against Victoria in a 7/8 classification game with NSW winning 5-2.
Jett was NSW State leading goal scorer and the men’s championships third highest goal scorer.
Elly Thornberry was NSW Blues one of two goal keepers who saved the team time and time again.
Blues started their championships with one win out of their pool games against Victoria Development 3-1.
The team went on to win their repechage game against South Australia 1-2 which advanced the team to quarter finals.
Unfortunately Western Aus tralia Gold were also strong in the girls competition as well as Western Australia Black with both teams beating NSW Blues.
This left the Blues to fight it out in the 7/8 classification game which ACT domi nated winning 2-0 against the Blues.
Archie and James competed with the men’s NSW Blues who weren’t as lucky in pool games losing all three games in close re
sults and then falling short to Tasmania
Blues were left to fight in pool D were they were able to come up with some
The team had a convincing 7-1 win over ACT, 6-0 win over Victoria Development and 3-0 win over Northern Territory. Alexander and team ACT also had a hard fought championships with ACT falling short in all of their pool games, repechage and two pool D games but were able to manage a 3-2 win over Northern Territory. Also representing Parkes was Jordan Grosvenor who was the men’s NSW Blues team manager with Archie and
