Without organ donation Bogan Gate family, the Thomas’, wouldn’t have their daughter and sister who is full of life, Chloe.
This Donate Life Week the Thomas’ are calling for people to get educated and say yes to organ donation. Chloe was just two weeks old when her parents noticed something wasn’t right.
By CHRISTINE LITTLE
Parkes Shire residents came out in the hundreds on Saturday night.
When the doors to the auditorium at the Parkes Leagues Club opened for a community information night on the impacts and issues surrounding an Energy from Waste incinerator that’s been proposed for Parkes, in walked the numbers.
And it grew to filling nearly every seat, to becoming
standing-room only with people hovering at the doors.
Hosts Parkes Clean Future Alliance counted 589 people in the room.
Even people from Sydney and other impacted communities facing similar proposals to Parkes were present.
“That’s not just a number, that’s a statement,” said Ben Stead from the alliance.
The night has been praised for its smooth organisation, quality speakers and above all the respectful behaviour
of the room.
And for just over two hours they listened.
“We always knew there were many in our community who opposed this incinerator but to see them come out on a cold, wet winter’s night, to stand together and be counted - we filled the leagues club with 589 people, it was absolutely incredible to see,” Mr Stead said.
“The turnout shows just how deeply this issue is affecting our community.
“People are scared, people are angry, and above all people were desperate for independent information and a forum to talk and be heard.
“Saturday night made one thing clear, Parkes is united and we will not sit quietly while our town’s future is decided without us.
“Parkes should be proud.”
The alliance thanked all who attended and those who made the night possible - its committee, volunteers and speakers.
It also sincerely thanked the eight Parkes Shire councillors for being there - councillors Douglas Pout and George Pratt sent their apologies due to prior commitments.
Former mayor Ken Keith OAM also attended.
“Your presence meant a great deal to our community, and we appreciate you taking the time to listen,” Mr Stead said, to our councillors.
The night’s speakers included Cr Joy Paddison, re-
newable energy engineer and Parkes Clean Future Alliance member Nicole Blinco, Greens Dr Amanda Cohn MLC and Nationals Scott Barrett MLC.
Chemical engineer from the ‘No More Incinerators Eastern Suburbs’ Chris Hanson was the night’s main speaker, and was followed by Parkes Chamber of Commerce president and livestock and rural property specialist Geoff Rice, and ■ Continued on page 3
THOMAS FROM BOGAN GATE, NOW 10 YEARS OLD, ENJOYS THE FLYING FOX AT LIONS PARK AND IS FULL OF LIFE. PHOTO: MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Parkes Probus Club has celebrated its 40th anniversary.
President of Parkes Rotary Club David Hughes presented Parkes Probus Club President Kevin Boneham with a 40th anniversary certificate to mark the occasion.
The Probus movement was formed 60 years ago in the UK and established by Rotary Clubs, and are not-for-profit organisations.
Their vision is to promote the growth, development and support for the Probus community and is the most recognised and accessible organisation for retirees, fostering the true spirit of Probus - friendship, fellowship and fun.
The Parkes Probus Club meets on the second Friday of each month at the Parkes Leagues Club at 10.30am.
They have interesting guest speakers so come along and enjoy a cuppa and a chat. Everyone is welcome.
LEFT: President of Parkes Rotary Club David Hughes (right) presented Parkes Probus Club President Kevin Boneham with a 40th anniversary certificate. PHOTO: Supplied
WHAT’S ON in and around Parkes
SUPPORT GROUP
Friday, 1 August
100TH TULLAMORE SHOW
The Adult Survivors of Child Abuse - Cowra Support Group meets on the first Friday of each month from 12.30pm to 2.30pm and is open to survivors of all communities. All details online via: heal.itmatters.com.au. Alternatively call Pascale, the facilitator, on 0458 698 460.
FROZEN JR PRODUCTION
25 July to 10 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
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.
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
OLD BOYS DAY
Sunday, 10 August
The Parkes Spacemen are holding their old boys day during their last home game of the season on 10 August at Pioneer Oval, when Parkes takes on Dubbo Macquarie. They’re inviting all past players, clubsmen and supporters to join them to celebrate all those who have helped to make the club what it is today and cheer on all those who are the future of it. The club is encouraging everyone to wear their best Spacemen jersey.
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
I am writing in response to a letter to the editor published in the Parkes Champion Post on the 24th of July by Pam Nankivell.
I share the Pam’s deep concerns about the impacts of climate change, including extreme fires and increasingly severe storms, floods and droughts.
I, too, am also concerned about our society’s over-production of waste, including massive amounts of plastic.
That is exactly why I stand in opposition to the waste incinerator proposed for Parkes.
Energy-from-waste is not a clean technology; the emissions from the stack are not just limited to water vapour.
These facilities emit large amounts of carbon dioxide, on par with other fossil-fuel power plants, especially when burning plastics.
Several of the countries with already operational energy-from-waste plants are moving away from the technology, due to growing concerns about greenhouse gas emissions.
make Trundle great. For more information visit their Facebook page ‘Trundle Show’.
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.
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.
PAINT PARKES READ
Friday, 22 August
Paint Parkes REaD will be holding their annual reading day at Cooke Park from 9.30am to 12pm. This year’s theme is ‘Book an Adventure’. For more information call 6862 1872.
While waste incinerators may temporarily provide relief to our state’s landfills that are nearing capacity, they do nothing to address the root cause of our waste crisis.
As a society, we must drastically reduce the amount of plastic and other waste we produce, and then re-use and recycle to a much greater extent than we currently do.
Audits of Sydney’s red bins show they typically contain around 25 per cent recyclables and 25 per cent green waste, materials that could be recovered and made into useful products, but will instead be incinerated.
The project has been promoted as ‘clean’ and part of a circular economy solution, but in reality, it is a disposalbased technology that destroys resources and generates pollution.
Energy-from-waste is a band-aid solution that risks undermining efforts to tackle overproduction, our throwaway culture, and the climate crisis.
Nicole Blinco
Forbes
Dear Editor
Well said Pam Nankivell (Champion Post 24 July).
I would like to add to her comments by referring to the two Waste to Energy projects currently under construction in Western Australia, one at Kwinana is nearing completion and the other at Rockingham in its early stages.
Both are smaller than the Parkes project in that they will process an estimated 460,000 tonnes and 300,000 tonnes of waste respectively. I believe they are within close proximity of each other.
I am pleased to see that Mr Phil Donato intends to visit those sites and I will be interested to read his report on them.
Boyd Chambers Parkes
Nationals push for inquiry into regional waste facilities
The NSW Nationals will push for a parliamentary inquiry into Energy from Waste incinerators following concerns almost a million tonnes of extra waste could be sent to regional areas, like Parkes, each year to help deal with an overflow in Sydney.
Member of the Legislative Council for the Orange electorate Scott Barrett announced the move on Wednesday afternoon.
There are plans to build two large energy recovery facilities in regional NSW, one that would divert 600,000 tonnes of rubbish to Parkes, and another that would see 380,000 tonnes taken to Tarago near Goulburn, where it
would be burnt for electricity generation.
Mr Barrett will lead a motion with fellow Nationals Upper House MP Nichole Overall to establish an inquiry when state parliament returns in August.
Mr Barrett said this is a chance for these impacted communities to have their voices heard.
“The communities hosting these projects have every right to have their say and we’ll be pushing hard to make that happen,” he said.
“Despite the Minns Labor Government admitting it is going to run out of landfill space in Sydney before the end of the decade, its only
solution seems to be dumping that waste and burning it in regional areas, far away from any of their local constituents.
“This inquiry will allow people to make contributions and have their questions answered – which is something that’s been sorely missing from the consultation phase of these projects.”
Both areas were earmarked for Energy from Waste projects under a 2022 regulation requiring such facilities to be built in regional areas, but Mrs Overall said issues raised
in the Tarago area, I’m also on the record questioning Labor’s Environment Minister on why Western Sydney isn’t suitable to take Sydney’s waste but it’s apparently fine for the regions - for which no answer was provided,” she said.
“Now a number of Parkes locals have come to me with their valid questions, from emissions to potential agricultural and health implications, and this inquiry will ensure these matters are properly addressed.
“We need a guarantee that
of reference for the parliamentary inquiry and they include:
1. The performance of the technologies proposed for the Tarago and Parkes Energy Recovery facilities as compared to leading thermal technologies employed in “state of the art” facilities internationally;
2. The spread of the emissions predicted and the quality of emissions to be generated;
3. Health impacts from currently operating older technology waste incinerators as
town drinking water, rainwater, harvesting and soil contamination;
5. The impact on agriculture including sheep, cattle and crop production locally and across the wider region;
6. Alterations to the Parkes Special Activation Precinct specifically in relation to the proposed Energy Recovery Facility in that region;
7. Impacts of waste-dumping over a number of decades in the Tarago region;
8. The methodology of emission monitoring employed by leading large scale waste to energy facilities in Australia and across the
Hundreds turn out for Energy from Waste night
■ From page 1. agriculture innovator from the Narromine Shire’s ‘Positive Change Community Group’ Bruce Maynard.
Cr Kenny McGrath, who has publicly declared his opposition to the proposed incinerator, was astounded by the number of people who showed up for the event.
“In my 34 years on Council I have never seen any protest like it,” he said.
“It’s the biggest I’ve ever seen.
“The organisers have the heart in it for Parkes, I just want to back them up.”
He thought the night was well put together and informative.
Cr McGrath said he’d like to see state ministers talk about Energy from Waste facilities too.
He’s spoken to a lot of Parkes residents about the issue and received many calls from those expressing their feelings against the project.
“I haven’t had one person say they want it yet,” Cr McGrath said.
He feels there’s too much at stake, and he expressed this view when he turned to social media last month to share with the community his thoughts on the proposed facility.
“We’re an agricultural town and the idea of burning hundreds of thousands of tonnes of Sydney’s rubbish right here doesn’t sit right with me,” he said.
“It could be safe but I am yet to see it.
“What worries me most is that the same kind of incinerator isn’t allowed in Sydney but it’s somehow okay to put one here in the middle of our regional community.
“That’s not fair, and it’s not right.
“Why are they bringing it all this way? What’s in the rubbish? There are places closer they can put it.”
Parkes Shire Mayor Neil Westcott thought it was fantastic to see democracy in action on the night and people approaching it respectfully.
“The night’s organisers should be satisfied with the
huge turnout,” he said.
“It was mostly respectful and that is what I’m looking for.
“I myself found something new in it and I’ve read all 130 pages of the NSW Chief Sci entist’s report.”
To read more of Mayor Neil Westcott’s comments on the night, as well as speaker Dr Amanda Cohn’s, and comments on the an nouncement on a push for an inquiry, see page 4.
Guest speakers - chemical engineer Chris Hanson, Greens Dr Amanda Cohn MLC, renewable energy engineer Nicole Blinco from Forbes, MC rural influencer Kaitie Nash, Nationals Scott Barrett MLC and Bruce Maynard from Narromine.
PHOTO: Erik Lensson
ALMOST 600 PEOPLE ATTENDED THE INFORMATION NIGHT ON SATURDAY.
Mayor supports inquiry as issues remain unaddressed
Parkes Shire Mayor Neil Westcott has expressed his strong support for the NSW Nationals’ push to estab lish another parliamentary inquiry into Energy from Waste.
The previous 2017 inquiry Cr Westcott speaks of in cluded participation from the current Environment Minis ter Penny Sharpe MLC, along with representatives from the Greens and Liberals, and led to several recommendations.
One of the recommendations was for the Chief Scientist and Engineer to ensure that international best practices were followed in Energy from Waste proposals to protect human health and the environment, which was addressed in the Chief Scientist’s report.
However, Cr Westcott said many of these recommendations appear to remain unaddressed.
“While the 2017 inquiry provided a foundation, there remains important questions that are yet to be fully ad-
dressed,” the mayor said.
“A renewed parliamentary inquiry could help clarify these issues and provide the transparency our community has been seeking.
“As this is a state government initiative, assessed within a state government framework, it is important the community receives clear and consistent communication from the relevant authorities.
“To date this has been minimal, despite our ongoing requests for engagement.”
Mayor Westcott was among
the almost 600 people who attended Saturday night’s ‘No Parkes Energy from Waste Incinerator’ community information night at the Parkes Leagues Club.
For him it highlighted the community’s deep concern and strong desire for information.
The night’s speakers raised issues such as emissions of persistent pollutants emitted, potential health impacts such as birth defects and questions about the EPA’s capacity to assess such facilities.
Dr Amanda Cohn of the Greens also conveyed the Public Health Association’s opposition to these projects.
“In the absence of detailed information from the NSW State Government, these concerns are contributing to growing uncertainty and fear within the community,” Cr Westcott said.
“A parliamentary inquiry could help address these issues by ensuring that all perspectives are thoroughly examined and that the public
is provided with transparent, evidence-based information.”
The mayor has raised a key question about the rationale behind the proposed location of Energy from Waste facilities and that it needs to be clearly explained to the community.
“There is a perception that such facilities are considered appropriate for regional areas like Parkes but not for metropolitan areas such as Sydney, despite their presence in many major cities around the world,” Cr Westcott said.
“Clarifying the criteria and decision-making processes that results in it being suitable for Parkes but not Sydney, would help ensure the community has a clear understanding of the reasoning based on factual information and reduce speculation or concern stemming from a lack of transparency.”
Mayor Westcott has also condemned one of Saturday’s speakers, Narromine Shire’s ‘Positive Change Community Group’ representative Bruce
Maynard’s allusion to corruption which he made on the night.
“This is a serious allegation and completely unfounded,” he said.
“Throwing around corruption allegations - without a shred of evidence - not only undermines the integrity of the conversation, but it also unfairly casts doubt on the credibility of Council, our councillors and staff, people who live and work in this community and are genuinely committed to achieving the best outcomes for Parkes Shire.”
Mayor Westcott applauded Parkes Business Chamber president and stock and station agent Geoff Rice’s call for respectful debate which was timely and necessary.
“Whether someone holds a different opinion on EfW or simply is not ready to form a view at this stage, that position deserves to be respected,” Cr Westcott said.
“People should feel safe to ask questions, seek informa-
tion and take the time they need to understand the issue without fear of judgement or pressure.
“As this conversation continues, it’s vital that our community is supported with clear, factual information and a respectful space to engage.
“Whether people are for, against or undecided on Energy from Waste, everyone deserves to be heard without fear of judgement or harassment.
“A renewed parliamentary inquiry offers an opportunity to bring clarity, accountability and confidence to the process, ensuring that decisions are made with the community’s best interests at heart.” Parkes Shire residents can view all of Parkes Shire Council’s correspondence with the state government regarding its concerns on this development, visit www.parkes.nsw. gov.au/Council/News-mediaand-projects/Projects-andworks/Energy-From-WasteFacility, and refer to the State Liaison section.
Dr Cohn: Incineration not the answer to waste crisis
The Greens have reiterated their call for a statewide moratorium on Energy from Waste incinerators as Parkes came together for an information night on Saturday.
Greens spokesperson for health and waste Dr Amanda Cohn MLC spent the weekend in the region listening to the community and speaking at the event, hosted by the Parkes Clean Future Alliance (PCFA) which drew in more than five per cent of the town’s population (600 people).
Prior to the information night Dr Cohn met with PCFA representatives and farmer Graeme Somers (pictured) whose property neighbours the site where the Parkes Energy Recovery incinerator has been proposed to be built.
Energy from Waste plants, which the government is proposing to help address Sydney’s waste crisis, have also been earmarked for Lithgow, Tarago near Goulburn, and Tomago
in the Hunter region after similar projects were kiboshed in Sydney.
“It was incredible to see how engaged the Parkes community is with this issue and hear their deep concerns about this so-called energyfrom-waste incinerator,” Dr Cohn said.
“This is not and never was about energy production.
“If incineration was an effective, clean and renewable way of producing electricity the Greens would be its strongest backers - but it’s not.
“This proposal is because of Sydney’s waste crisis, with the Greater Sydney basin set to run out of landfill space by 2030.”
Dr Cohn is a former rural GP who left her job to enter state politics to fight against health and environmental issues. She was also Albury City’s Deputy Mayor from 2016 to 2021.
During her speech, Dr Cohn highlighted the Public Health Association of Australia’s recommendation that an incinerator should not be built anywhere near food production.
“As well as these environmental and health impacts, incinerators need us to keep producing garbage at an unsustainable pace to be viable, countering the important work we need to move to a circular economy,” she said.
“Albury City Council and surrounding shires successfully reduced our waste requiring landfill by 50 per cent from 2010 to 2020.
“We need much stronger measures from state and federal government to reduce waste at the source, for example extended producer responsibility schemes that require products to be repairable, recyclable or compostable - or the producer bears the cost of disposal, not communities, councils and ratepayers.”
The Nationals announced last Wednesday they will push for an inquiry into the proposals at Parkes and Tarago, but Dr Cohn said it excludes other impacted communities.
“Every person I have spoken to in Parkes has been shocked how far this project has progressed without the community understanding what was being proposed.”
Dr Cohn said The Greens are ready to support an inquiry but want to see one that fully examines the issue statewide.
Neil Westcott.
Town at a crossroads again
OPINION PIECE
By IAN CHAMBERS
The current controversy about the waste to energy project brings to mind an earlier contentious matter which confronted the people of Parkes.
Back in the 1980s the offices of Parkes Shire Council were split between two buildings – the present Neighbourhood Central building and the town clock building.
This created administrative and operational difficulties which adversely affected the efficient and effective running of the Council.
Council recognised the problems involved and realised that something had to be done.
A decision was made to construct a new building which would house all Council administrative departments.
The old electricity substation building on the corner of Bogan and Cecile streets was purchased and plans were drawn up for the construction of what would become the Parkes Shire Administration Centre.
News of this was released in the local newspaper – in those days the Champion Post came out three days a week and was the main source of local news, along with radio station 2PK, before the days of the internet, Facebook, etc.
It wasn’t long before objections to the proposal began from various local individuals and groups.
Letters appeared in the papers slamming Council for what was considered excessive waste of money on an unnecessary building.
Members of the farming community complained that this was good money which could be spent on rural roads, townspeople complained it would probably impact on rates, and a groundswell of opposition arose.
Many people couldn’t see the potential benefit to the town an impressive Council headquarters building could bring.
Council, however, was determined to go ahead, but decided to hold a public meeting to let the community air their views and to better gauge the reaction of the people.
The meeting was held in the upstairs auditorium of the Leagues Club, and some 500-600 people attended.
By this stage the most vocal opponents had swayed the thinking of the majority, and they turned up in force to voice their disapproval of
Council’s actions.
The Mayor Robert Wilson and Deputy Mayor Alan Somers, along with a few others were seated on the stage and Robert and Alan both spoke in favour of the plan, and pointed out the problems of the present set-up. They highlighted the administrative benefits and the other potential benefits to the town of this new proposed building.
Visitors to town – state and feder al government representatives, po tential business investors and other dignitaries, would be welcomed at a modern and impressive building – their first, and perhaps deciding impression of the town.
Parkes would present as progres sive and forward thinking.
The crowd however wouldn’t be convinced and the anger through out the room was obvious.
The Mayor called for a vote and the result was an overwhelming negative response to the plan, with only two hands (yes 2) from the floor going up in support.
The farming sector was particularly firm against the proposal, so much so that in the upcoming council election the Deputy Mayor Alan Somers, a farmer himself but a strong advocate of the new building, failed to be re-elected in a backlash for his support of the project.
Undeterred Council went ahead, the building was built, and it now stands as a testament to the foresight and leadership of that Council.
Of course, following its construction, which was completed in 1986, people came to accept that the decision to build was a very good one, and set up Parkes for a positive future.
This was an example of vocal members of the community creat ing doubt in the minds of others and the inability of those protesters to foresee the potential benefits of expenditure on needed infrastruc ture.
The present controversy over the waste to energy project is similar –the vocal few have influenced com munity opinion to such an extent that now a majority appear to be against it, mainly as a result of the arguments put forward by the op ponents.
In an interesting and ironic twist to this story, Alan Somer’s stand in support of the building of the new administration centre, against op position from many of his contem poraries, was eventually vindicated and repaid by his subsequent reelection to Council.
Four-month investigation leads to arrest
Police news
A four-month investigation into alleged property offences has led to an arrest in Forbes.
Officers attached to Central West Police District commenced an investigation after a Holden Rodeo was allegedly stolen from a home on Gloucester Street in Forbes on 1 April this year.
Police located the vehicle abandoned in Clarinda Street, Parkes the next morning before it was seized for a forensic examination.
the construction of the new
Following inquiries, police arrested a 27-year-old man at a home in Powter Street, Forbes last Wednesday afternoon, 23 July.
He was taken to Forbes Police Station where he was charged with take and drive conveyance without consent of owner.
He was refused bail to appear at Bail Division Court 4 last Thursday.
Two vehicles stolen from Peak Hill
Two vehicles were stolen from a property in Peak Hill either late on 28 June or in the early hours of 29 June. They travelled on the Newell Highway and were left damaged at Tomingley.
Police seized the vehicles for further examination in an effort to identify the alleged offenders.
Car damaged at trots event
Police have been investigating an incident that saw a car that was parked at a Friday night trots event targeted by vandals.
It’s alleged unknown persons slashed the vehicle’s four tyres and smashed two of its windows about 9.30pm on 4 July at the Parkes Showground during the trots.
Police obtained CCTV footage during their investigations.
Parkes Shire Council staff in front of what was its second administration office and now the present Neighbourhood Central.
Parkes Shire Council staff in front of the town clock building, what was then
The town was overwhelmingly against
Parkes Shire Council Administration Centre, which was completed in 1986. Mayor Robert Wilson is on the left and Deputy Mayor Alan Somers is fourth from the right. PHOTOS: Supplied
Concert strikes a special chord
The Parkes Shire Concert Band’s 30th anniversary weekend went off without a hitch as hundreds gathered at the Parkes Services Club for the celebration.
The weekend involved a Saturday workshop featuring the Fire and Rescue NSW Band, Parkes Shire Concert Band (PSCB) and other musicians - which was a total of 84 musicians.
PSCB stalwart and musician Ellen Tom said it was a quality day focusing on rehearsal techniques.
“These workshops are invaluable for enriching and collaboration networking,” she said.
“Country community bands are very small in numbers and we often help out playing with each other.”
PSCB hosted its feature concert for the community on Sunday that saw more than 200 people in the audience, and a total of 131 musicians performing.
Orange Regional Conservatorium Wind Ensemble of 40 musicians opened the con-
cert with an outstanding program of classical music.
Fire and Rescue NSW Band followed with an amazing variety of entertainment.
After the interval local bands such as Orange Ensemble Divertimento, Subtonic Fusion and PSCB performed, all combining for the finale.
Parkes Shire Concert Band would like to say a big and appreciative ‘thank you’ to all who attended, and to all involved and who supported the milestone and event.
The band would particularly like to thank its sponsors Parkes Shire Council and Evolution Mining Northparkes for the community grants they were successful in receiving.
“Our 30th anniversary concert celebration would not have been possible without their community sponsorship,” Ellen said.
“It enables us to bring professional musicians into our shire, and stay for the weekend.
“Our aim was to celebrate with bringing a variety of
musicians together for our community audience to enjoy.”
Ellen encourages the community to become involved in the PSCB - learn or dust-off that instrument you used to play.
“Introduce your children to playing music and become involved in playing at local events,” she said.
“Help us keep community music alive and playing in our shire.”
Ellen shared a famous quote by Victor Hugo, a French romantic author, poet, essayist, playwright, journalist, human rights activist and politician: ‘Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent’.
You can follow the Parkes Shire Concert Band on Facebook and Ellen said don’t hesitate to contact them if you have a community event.
All are welcome to their rehearsals during the school term, which take place in the Music Room located above the Parkes Pool complex.
▶ Parkes-based community band that includes musicians from around the Central West,
▲ Janet Horner from Parkes was the event’s lucky door prize winner.
Subtonic Fusion, also entertained the audience.
PHOTOS: Jenny Kingham
◀ Parkes Mayor Neil Westcott with Caroline, the daughter of accomplished musician from Parkes Lindsay Morehouse. She travelled from Armidale to play with the band once again.
June Armstrong and Joy Wright were among the 200 people in the audience who attended the concert.
Ian Dowty and Glen Stanley came back from Port Macquarie for the event.
Parkes Shire Concert Band performed a number of items during the anniversary concert.
FIRE AND RESCUE NSW BAND WERE AMONG THE GUEST PERFORMERS ON SUNDAY.
ALEX, AUGI, OLI AND FELICITY ABBEY TAKE
A LOOK AT THE EXTENSIVE PHOTO DISPLAY OF THE PARKES SHIRE CONCERT BAND OVER THE YEARS.
John and Jenny Henry with Dave and Jenny Heinz of WollongongDave came back to Parkes to play once again with the band.
Entries
open for Young Women Competition
Parkes Show Society is calling for young women with a passion for leadership, community and personal growth who are ready to shine.
Entries are open for the 2025 Parkes Show Young Women Competition for your chance to be recognised, inspired and empowered.
The competition is open to young women aged 18 to 25.
Judging takes place on Saturday, 16 August and the winner will be announced at the official opening of the Parkes Show on 26 August.
The competition aims to identify a young woman who acts as an ambassador for rural NSW, with her role involving many official and informal duties both at the Sydney Royal Easter Show and during her travels interstate and overseas.
Most importantly the Young Women must have a genuine interest in rural NSW and some knowledge.
The competition encourages the participation and subsequent awareness of rural women’s contribution and involvement in both local communities and rural NSW as a whole and plays a significant role in the overall development of rural youth in Australia.
If you think this is the perfect role for yourself or know someone who should apply, follow the link to access the entry form: parkesshow.wixsite.com/ parkesshowsociety/showgirlcompetition.
One yes saved Chloe’s life
DONATE LIFE WEEK
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
From page 1.
Chloe Thomas was just two weeks old when her parents noticed something wasn’t right.
“She was jaundiced, but we were told it was probably just breastfeeding jaundice,” her mum Kell Thomas recalled.
But at three weeks, further testing revealed something much more serious.
Chloe had a rise in her bilirubin levels which eventually led to a diagnosis of biliary atresia, a rare and life-threatening liver disease in infants.
The family’s world turned upside down as Chloe was admitted for surgery at Westmead Children’s Hospital.
“She had what’s called a Kasai procedure, where they remove the damaged bile ducts and gallbladder and attempt to redirect bile flow. But it didn’t work. We were home for just three days before she was back in hospital.”
By eight weeks old, Chloe was in end-stage liver failure and over the next several months Chloe’s condition worsened.
She required feeding tubes, up to 18 medications a day and constant care.
“She couldn’t go to daycare. Our lives revolved around her medication schedule and she was constantly itchy and uncomfortable so we had to hold her 24/7 because she just couldn’t settle.”
When Chloe was eight months old, she was officially placed on the transplant waiting list and there she remained for another eight months until ‘the’ call finally came.
“It was 11:30 at night. My phone lit up with a no-caller ID and I just stared at it, thinking what else could it be because you don’t want to give your hopes up,” Kell said.
Despite having a rare good day where Chloe was able to sit and play, the family made their way to Westmead for surgery.
What followed was a life-saving transplant operation that stretched into the early hours of the next morning.
Before the surgery due to jaun-
dice Kell remembers Chloe be came more yellow and yellow as the days went on, even her eyes became yellow.
“There was no white left in her eyes and her skin was sometimes fluorescent almost. Her liver was completely shut down nearly.”
After the procedure, Chloe was kept in an induced coma to allow her tiny body time to heal.
“When she finally opened her eyes, they were white, that was probably the most amazing mo ment that we had in her life,” Kell said.
Now 10 years old, Chloe is thriv ing.
“She’s fun, full of life and loves singing, that’s her happy place. She recently competed in the Forbes Eisteddfod and came home with multiple awards. She still gets tired, but she lives life with so much joy.”
For her family, Chloe’s trans plant means everything.
“Without it, she wouldn’t be here. We wouldn’t have had the last eight, almost nine years with her. Biliary atresia is terminal without a transplant and no child survives it untreated.”
The Thomas’ are passionate about raising awareness during Donate Life Week.
“People don’t realise organ dona tion isn’t something you just tick on your driver’s license anymore. You need to register online at the DonateLife website or through Medicare.
“Most importantly, you must tell your family. Even if you’re regis tered, your loved ones can over ride your wishes if they don’t know them.”
She also reminds people how one decision can impact many lives.
“A single organ donor can save up to seven lives. Your liver can be split to help two people, your kidneys can go to two others, and even corneas can restore someone’s sight.
“My aunt had a cornea transplant and she can see today because someone said yes.”
For Chloe’s family, that one donor’s “yes” nine years ago has given them a future they were never sure they’d have.
“They said goodbye to their child and still made the decision to help someone else’s live. It’s something we think about every day. It’s the greatest gift we could have ever re ceived,” Kell added.
Donate Life Week is held from 27 July to 3 August. To register as an organ donor or for more informa tion about Donate Life Week visit donatelife.gov.au
end-stage liver failure. PHO
Youth join forces to better community
Youth of Parkes and Forbes had the chance to have their voices heard at the Connect and Thrive - Pathways event in Parkes.
Delivered by the NSW Office for Regional Youth, Connect and Thrive - Pathways is a direct response to feedback from the 2024 Your Voice, Our Future consultation and NSW Youth Summit, where our youth called for more meaningful, face to face engagement in their own communities.
The event included a youth-led networking session, a leadership and communication skills workshop and a Pitch It Session featuring local businesses, councils and community groups sharing opportunities for youth employ-
lutions to challenges they face in their communities.
Students from Parkes High School, Parkes Christian School, Red Bend Catholic College and Forbes High School took part in the event where they were equipped with the tools, networks and confidence they need to shape their futures.
Among the discussions, the youth of Parkes want to see a youth council like the one in Forbes - the Forbes Youth Action Team.
And students from both Parkes High and Forbes High said they’d like to see more competitions between the two schools, adding that if students are unable to participate in sport outside of school for multiple reasons, they should be able to take part in school.
KYIAN COTTIER
On these pages we share what some of the students had to say about the event before and after.
MEG SKINNER
PARKES HIGH COMMENTS BEFORE EVENT:
NATE HENRY
Q1: What are you looking forward to most about being part of the Connect and Thrive event?
Making new connections and creating more opportunities with everyone, learning and finding solutions within the community.
Q2: Why do you think it’s important to hold events like this for young people in regional areas?
To help younger people understand and grow from past experiences and help continue to develop the regional areas.
Q3: What do you hope to learn, gain or share by taking part in this event?
Q1: What are you looking forward to most about being part of the Connect and Thrive event?
I am looking forward to meeting new people and discussing issues within our community.
Q2: Why do you think it’s important to hold events like this for young people in regional areas?
I think it is important for young people in regional areas to have events like this so that we can have opportunities to discuss issues or challenges that we are passionate about.
Q3: What do you hope to learn, gain or share by taking part in this event?
I hope to learn more about our commu-
regional areas?
Q1: What are you looking forward to most about being part of the Connect and Thrive event?
I am most looking forward to being able to form connections with like-minded people who are passionate about growth, collaboration, and making a meaningful impact. I feel that the chance to exchange ideas, learn from the experiences of others and form new relationships can be extremely helpful for both personal and professional development.
Q2: Why do you think it’s important to hold events like this for young people in
Events like these are important because they provide access to opportunities, inspiration, and networks that may otherwise be difficult to reach, helping people in regional communities to feel connected and confident in pursuing their personal interests and goals.
Q3: What do you hope to learn, gain or share by taking part in this event?
I hope to gain new perspectives, build new connections, and learn from the experiences of others. I also look forward to sharing my own journey and experiences, and help to encourage others to follow
Getting to know many new people and learn some helpful tips and history of Parkes, and share my thoughts and ideas with everyone else.
Q4: Is there an issue or challenge you are passionate about?
Not in particular but minor things such as more sport being accessible and ran by the community.
Q5: What is great about living in Parkes?
It’s a unique and up to date place, with a large variety of great opportunities always being offered and everyone generally knows each other. And it continues to grow throughout the years and develop positively.
nity and challenges within our town that I may be unaware of.
Q4: Is there an issue or challenge you are passionate about?
There are not many activities within the town for teenagers which leads them to loiter around town.
Q5: What is great about living in Parkes?
Parkes has a great community, home to the Dish and lots of great scenery when it comes to the farming and canola crop filled fields. There are many sporting clubs which provide variety and options for families when choosing an extracurricular activity. Parkes High School is also a great public Highschool that thrives in many different aspects of schooling such as cultural, academic and sporting.
their passion with confidence and pride.
Q4: Is there an issue or challenge you are passionate about?
I am primarily interested in the consistent issue of mental health concerns in young people, more specifically people aged between 14 and 25, as they are most significantly impacted.
Q5: What is great about living in Parkes?
The Parkes community is great because in small, regional areas like this, making valuable connections is easy, especially when communities like ours are so diverse and interconnected, making close relationships with others much more attainable.
the Connect and Thrive event?
I would like to discuss the future of the Parkes community and how younger citizens can contribute to it.
Q2: Why do you think it’s important to hold events like this for young people in regional areas?
It’s important for young people to have an opinion on what goes on in the community and to have an understanding of the processes behind the scenes.
Q3: What do you hope to learn, gain or share by taking part in this event?
I wish to share the thoughts and opinions of my peers and learn to have a better appreciation for the effort that goes into this community.
Q4: Is there an issue or challenge you are passionate about?
I wish for the Parkes incinerator to not go ahead. I am concerned about the impact on the local community and environment.
Q5: What is great about living in Parkes?
A nice, close community.
NATE HENRY.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
MEG SKINNER.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
PARKES CHRISTIAN SCHOOL AFTER EVENT: ZOE
CHLOE AMERY
Q1. In the Pitch It session, what did you learn?
In the Pitch It session local businesses and councils shared the employment op portunities that they have to offer for young people in our area. These opportu nities included cadet and traineeships and volunteering opportunities at the PCYC, Department of Primary Industries, Forbes and Parkes Shire Council, NSW Health and many other businesses. I didn’t know how many job and study opportunities that es pecially council had to offer in different areas such as business, finance, town plan ning, mechanics, horticulture and many more which are great local employment and study opportunities
Q2. Did you have a highlight of the event?
The highlight of the event for me was hearing from all of the local businesses about their employment opportunities for young people and further networking with them afterwards to explore local employment and study options for after school.
Q3. Was there something that you found valuable about the event?
The session with Jillian Kilby where she spoke about ‘Your Strengths, You Future’ was a valuable part of the event as she discussed feeling empowered, impactful and engaged in what we do and in our community. Assisting us to explore our own values and goals for the future, she taught us how to use design thinking to solve problems and be innovative.
Q4. What did you think of the event?
The Connect and Thrive event was a great day filled with helpful sessions to
Q5. Did you have a favourite session?
My favourite session was hearing from all of the local businesses about their local employment opportunities for young people as this is something that I may be considering for next year after school.
Q6. Why do you think it is important to have these events for youth in our community?
It is important to have events like Connect and Thrive for youth in our community to network with other young people, to be empowered and inspired and to explore local employment and study opportunities that we may not have otherwise been aware of.
MIA BAKER
Q1. In the Pitch It session, what did you learn?
Within the Pitch it session we learnt many important opportunities within our local areas for jobs including traineeships, youth events to be involved in and a wide variety of job opportunities entailing hands-on alongside academical based traineeships, and how to access them. Before the session I was briefly aware of certain opportunities, however hearing about them from the perspective of individuals who participated in such opportunities was really eye opening.
Q2. Did you have a highlight of the event?
I believe my highlight of the event was actually connecting with many other school students who were in attendance on the day, actually learning from them about their dream careers and 5 year plans and how they plan on achieving their goals was really interesting and inspiring.
Q3. Was there something that you found valuable about the event?
The most valuable takeaways that I had from the event was that there are
so many other options rather than going straight to university, which are almost just as beneficial if not more in terms of support and experience. Another thing that truly has been valuable to me from the event is I AM NOT ALONE, connecting with many other students truly reinforced that there are many individuals who are going through the same situation of planning for their near future, and I am sure feeling a very similar stress that I am, furthermore emphasising I am not alone.
Q4. What did you think of the event?
I thought the event was engaging and proactive, actually seeing many businesses and individuals who care about future generations and supporting us through the next step in life was really encouraging and comforting. Especially when the event had clear goals of connecting not only students within the rural community but also businesses who are able to support our next steps and goals in life.
Q5. Did you have a favourite session?
A favourite session of mine was particularly
BILSBOROUGH
Q1. In the Pitch It session, what did you learn?
We learned about the variety of different job opportunities within the local council (such as HR, IT, event/town planner, CAT program, etc), FYAT (Forbes Youth Action Team), PCYC and various other organisations. It was also said at multiple points throughout the session that University is not the only path, there are so many other opportunities out there. Some great advice given in this session was that if you get the opportunity to have hands-on experience you should take it, do work experience, volunteer in the community, take a gap year, because you will always learn something useful in everything you do. I knew about some of these opportunities, but with the jobs in council I never realised how many different
opportunities there were within it so there is pretty much a job for anyone.
Q2. Did you have a highlight of the event?
I loved hearing about all the different gap year programs such as Contiki Tours, Year 13 and the ADF Gap Year. Also playing ‘diversity bingo’ at the start was a great way to break the ice for everyone.
3. Was there something that you found valuable about the event?
It was reassuring to hear that there are so many different opportunities and that the job you take after school is not the one you have to stick with for life, there are always other things you can do and you don’t have to go to Uni
Q4. What did you think of the event?
I thought it was a really eye opening experience, especially to hear per-
sonal stories from people. It gave more or a realistic feel instead of just being told that you don’t have to go to Uni or stick with one job for life.
Q5. Did you have a favourite session?
I really enjoyed the Pitch It session, it’s made me think about what I want to do after school and has reassured me that you don’t need to know exactly what you want to do
Q6. Why do you think it is important to have these events for youth in our community?
I think it is really important to have these events as it actually makes people aware of how many opportunities and jobs there actually are in rural areas, you don’t have to move to a big city to get better opportunities because there are way more than you realise in rural areas.
when a business woman named Jillian Gilby presented, speaking about her journey to owning her own business Exchange and the process of starting such a business. It was truly inspiring to see a woman who is hardworking and driven buy a run down building and transform it into a successful business. With myself having such big dreams of owning my own physiotherapy business, it was genuinely motivating to hear from Mrs. Gilby and know how she achieved her goals.
Q6. Why do you think it is important to have these events for youth in our community?
It is vital that as teenagers we feel connected to not only one another but also the business world. Leaving school is extraordinarily intimidating and being unaware of opportunities is a disadvantage to us teenagers. These events in the community not only connect us teenagers with one another, but it provides us with security knowing businesses who are eager to hire us graduates. Therefore showing how important it is to have these events in our community.
General Practitioners & Locums - Warren, Condobolin & Gilgandra, NSW. Make a real difference in rural healthcare with the Royal Flying Doctor Service!
PARKES CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
STUDENT JOSHUA KING.
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
CHLOE AMERY. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
STUDENTS WORKED TOGETHER TO BRAINSTORM SOLUTIONS TO CHALLENGES FACED IN OUR COMMUNITIES.
RUBIE SAXVIK IS OUR STUDENT OF THE WEEK
“Rubie is always trying her personal best and brings a big smile to our school.”
What is your favourite subject?
Sport
What is your favourite thing about your school?
The great learning
What are your hobbies?
Drawing
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Work in a museum
PEYTON NIKOLIC IS OUR STUDENT OF THE WEEK
What is your favourite colour?
Pink
What is your favourite food?
Red apples
What do you want to be when you grow up? Either a vet or a horserider
What are your strengths? I’m good at soccer and being kind and making people smile.
What do you like about your school? The teachers are helpful and lots of kids to be friends with What do you like to do outside of school? Play soccer, read and be lazy and sit around
Full throttle to $150k for prostate cancer
With just over two weeks to go until an epic tractor trek is ready to roll, Richard Jefferay and his team have already smashed their $100,000 fundraising goal.
And now they’re chasing an even bigger target of $150,000.
The Parkes mechanic and business owner is embarking on his third annual tractor trek, this year from Bourke to Birdsville with eight mates, navigating remote dirt tracks and stopping in small towns to spark life-saving conversations about early detection and prostate cancer aware-
It’s a deeply personal mission for Richard, whose father Dick was diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Over the past two years he’s raised more than $90,000 for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia (PCFA) and 2025 is shaping up to be his biggest year yet. Richard wanted to double the distance
and double the target.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the support – now it’s full throttle toward our $150,000 goal,” Richard said.
“Every kilometre counts in raising awareness and saving lives.”
The tractor trek is proudly backed by Tyrepower, which has raised more than $1.3 million for PCFA over the past 11 years.
At their international conference, a char ity auction in support of the trek pulled in more than $150,000.
At time of print on Wednesday the trek’s fundraising tally was sitting at $101,499.
The tractors will be rolling out of Parkes heading north for their planned depar ture from Bourke on 11 August for the 1240km journey to Birdsville. They’ll ar rive in Birdsville on Saturday, 23 August. Anyone wanting to support their cause can donate at fun draise.pcfa.org.au/ tractortrek.
THE COUNTDOWN IS ON UNTIL MECHANIC RICHARD JEFFERAY AND HIS TEAM OF EIGHT DEPART PARKES FOR ANOTHER EPIC TRACTOR TREK IN AUGUST.
Middleton Public School student Rubie Saxvik is our student of the week.
Peyton Nikolic in year five at Parkes East Public School is our student of the week.
New dates for Tree Day confirmed
LOOKING AT LANDCARE
By MARG APPLEBEE, CENTRAL WEST
LACHLAN LANDCARE
National Tree Day events for Forbes and Parkes have been rescheduled.
Thank you to those who regis tered for National Tree Day events in Forbes and Parkes.
Registering keeps you in the loop if there are changes to an event. It also helps us to ensure that we have the appropriate catering and general equipment available on the day.
Central West Lachlan Landcare will be working with Forbes Shire Council and Parkes Shire Council to deliver National Tree Day activities.
We are pleased to be heading out
Merino
CATTLE SALE
Monday, 28 July
Yarding 1013 (down 467)
Numbers fell this sale with agents yarding 1013 head.
Quality was fair with a good offering of well bred cattle penned and fewer secondary types.
The usual buyers were present and competing in a stronger market.
Yearling steers lifted 20c with feeder paying from 396c to 527c/kg. Those to processors were also strong reaching 460c/kg.
The heifer portion was 25 to 30c/kg dearer to receive from 372 to 461c/kg to feed.
A quality run to processors sold from 380c to 472c/ kg. Heavy steers and bullocks reached 460c/kg.
Grown heifers sold to 440c/kg. Cows jumped 30c with heavy 2 score from 341c to 369c and 3 score
event.
to a site off the Bogan Way in the Goldridge Estate on Saturday, 16 August 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
lambs
370c to 428c/kg. The best heavy bull reached 383c/kg.
aged 1180c/kg.
SHEEP SALE
Tuesday, 28 July
Yarding 39,850 (19,200)
Lamb numbers fell with good widespread rain.
The quality was very good with excellent drafts of heavy and extra lambs.
Trade weights were well supplied and buyers were paying a premium for short skinned lambs. There also were fewer tail end lambs.
Bidding was more consistent across the whole yarding and the full buying group competed strongly which resulted in a firm to dearer market with the better lambs lifting between $6 and $8/head.
There were a few new season lambs offered and trade weights sold from $270 to $308/head and aver-
PHOTO: Supplied
Parkes Wetlands for planting on Sunday, 17 August.
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,
The old 2 score processing lambs to 18kg sold from $165 to $200/head or 1060c to 1100c/kg.
Trade weights to 24kg ranged from $240 to $309/ head averaging from 1150c to 1230c/kg.
Heavy lambs to 30kg sold between $270 and $356 with the bulk 1100c to 1200c/kg.
Extra heavy lambs reached $455/head. Very heavy Merinos with a long skin reached a very impressive $420/head, most Merinos ranged around 1000c to 1050c/kg and the best priced hogget reached $280/head.
Mutton numbers halved and the quality was good with most medium and heavy weights offered.
Prices were very strong with the better covered lined lifting $20 to $25/head.
Medium weight ewes sold
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.
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.
If you have already registered, we will keep your registration that is already in the system, just email cwllandcare@gmail.com if you won’t be joining us.
Forbes National Tree Day will be held on Saturday, 16 August from 10am at a site in Goldridge Estate. Find out more details via our social media or the Planet Ark website.
Parkes National Tree Day will be held on Sunday, 27 July from 10am at Akuna Road. Find out more details via our social media or the Planet Ark website.
If you can’t register online, drop
from $120 to $192/head and heavy crossbreds ranged from $210 to $300 and Me rinos also topped at $300/ head.
Most mutton ranged be tween 780c and 860c/kg.
FROM MLA’S NATIONAL LIVESTOCK REPORTING AGENCY
PIG SALE
Friday, 25 July
Sow numbers increased this week. A good quality yarding saw prices 10c to 20c dearer.
A small yarding of bacon saw a dearer trend by $20 to $30 per head.
Pork again were in short supply, prices improved by $20 to $30 per head.
A good quality run of suckers mainly on the light er weight saw prices im prove $10 to $15 per head.
FROM VC REID SMITH LIVESTOCK
ACROSS
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE CROSSWORD
1 What is a catchword called (6)
8 Name another term for a slaughterhouse (8)
9 What is a gunny (6)
10 Name one of the rulers in a form of government in which the power is vested in a few (8)
11 Which steel tool is used for cutting or shaping wood (6)
13 What are territories under the control of Muslim chieftains (8)
16 What is a penalty imposed by a court (8)
19 Name the Prince Consort of Queen Victoria (6)
22 What is a triangular space between the curve of an arch and the enclosing mouldings (8)
24 What are dome-shaped Inuit huts (6)
25 Small antelopes are known as what (8)
26 What is the belief in one god as the creator and ruler of the universe (6)
DOWN
2 To express mirth by an explosive sound of the voice, is to do what (5)
3 What are the respiratory organs of fish (5)
Letters
Some
4 Who was defeated at the Battle of Waterloo (8)
5 Name the principal outer garment of Hindu women (4)
6 What is the capital of Canada (6)
7 Which term suggests a ring (6)
12 Teheran is the capital of which Asian republic (4)
14 What is a visionary or unpractical person called (8)
E-QUATIONS
Letters A to Z have a number value. Some are shown in the right-hand cells. Create remaining values using clues in centre cells.
15 Name the rubber band fitted round the rim of a wheel (4)
17 What is the act of keeping watch (6)
18 Name the wagon attached to a steam locomotive (6)
20 What is the lowest portion of a ship’s interior (5)
21 Name the tops of buildings (5)
23 What is an actor’s part in a play (4)
Find the following words in the grid. They may be read in any direction, even diagonally. Some letters are used more than once.
1 MACERATE (a) To steep (b) To declare to be happy (c) To form a plot
2 NOTANDUM
(a) The upper surface of a bird’s trunk (b) Something to be specially noted (c) A system of signs or symbols
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:
Breathing apparatus (5)
Bugbear (7)
Carry with effort (3)
Disk Operating System (3)
Immediately payable (3)
Inflexible (5)
Lower currency rate (7)
Rebel (abb) (3)
Sacred writings (5)
Very angry (5)
ALLEN, Douglas.
Late of Callaghan Street, Parkes. Who passed away peacefully at Opal Aged Care, Dubbo on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
Aged of 97 years.
Dearly loved husband of Lucy Loving father and father-in-law of Lorraine, Ian and Irene, Kevin and Kathy, Heather and Les and Steven and Lynne. Cherished pop of his 13 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.
~ Resting peacefully ~ The cortege is appointed to leave The Parkes Uniting Church after a service commencing at 10am, on Friday, August 8, 2025 for interment in lawn portion of the Parkes Cemetery.
Central West FUNERALS
CORCORAN, Robert Alan “George”. Late of ‘Willowbend’ Emerton Road, Parkes who passed away suddenly on Monday, July 21, 2025. Aged 81 years.
Dearly loved husband of Janice Much loved father of Kearin, Darrin, Katrina and beloved step-father of Kristian, Jeremy, Michelle and their partners.
Cherished Pop of his 15 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
A graveside service celebrating George’s life will be held at The Parkes Lawn Cemetery commencing at 1pm on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.
Central West FUNERALS
PERRY, Frances Ann.
Late of Melba, ACT and formerly of Parkes. Who passed away peacefully on Friday, July 25, 2025.
Aged 86 years.
Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Mark and Michael and Lisa.
Cherished Nana of Nikita and Jamie. Beloved sister of the late John Cock.
~ Resting peacefully ~ The cortege is appointed to leave The Parkes Uniting Church, after a service commencing at 1pm, on Friday, August 8, 2025 for interment in the Parkes Town Cemetery.
Central West
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Parkes Forbes
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 Morning Programs. 12.00 Horse Racing. VRC Season Premiere Race Day, Jockey Celebration Day and Teddy Bears Picnic At The Races. 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. 8.30 MOVIE: Angels & Demons. (2009) Tom Hanks, Ewan McGregor. 11.15 MOVIE: Gunpowder Milkshake. (2021) 2.00 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.00 Blokesworld. 1.30 Teeing Off With Daisy Thomas. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Aussie Truckers. 3.00 Motor Racing. NDRC Top Doorslammer. Highlights. 4.00 Football. AFL. Round 21. Sydney v Essendon. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 Pawn Stars. 9.30 American Pickers. 10.30 Air Crash Inv. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.15 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Titans v Canterbury Bulldogs. 2.15 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Tigers v Roosters. 4.15 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Broncos v Cronulla Sharks. 6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 ACA. 7.30 Rugby Union. Aust v British & Irish Lions. 10.00 Test Rugby: Australia v British & Irish Lions Post-Match. 10.15 MOVIE: Dunkirk. (2017) 12.15 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 8.30 Get Arty. 10.00 Weekender. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 Guitar Gods Goes Cosmic. 11.40 The Big Adventure. 1.00 Wife Swap Australia. 2.20 Starstruck. 3.40 America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League. 5.35 MOVIE: Turbo. (2013) 7.30 MOVIE: Maid In Manhattan. (2002) 9.40 MOVIE: Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle. (2003) 11.50 Late Programs.
Fresh Off The Boat. 10.05 Speechless. 10.45 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.40 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 Live At The Malthouse. 9.50 Extras. 10.50 ER. 11.35 Late Programs. 6.00
6.00 Morning Programs. 1.45 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 5. Newcastle Knights v Canberra Raiders. 3.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 22. Cronulla Sharks v North Queensland Cowboys. 6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 The Block. 8.40 60 Minutes. 9.40 World Aquatics Championships. Singapore 2025. Day 8. Finals. 11.20 The First 48. 12.20 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.30 Are You Being Served?
3.00 Rugby Union. Shute Shield. Round 17. Warringah v Eastwood. 5.00 MOVIE: The Thomas Crown Affair. (1968) 7.00 MOVIE: Monster-In-Law. (2005) 9.00 World Aquatics Championships. Singapore 2025. Day 7. Finals. 11.05 TBA. 12.05 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 8.00 Are You RV Safe? 8.30 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures. 9.30 Buy To Build. 10.00 Australia By Design: Innovations. 10.30 10 Minute Kitchen. 11.00 MasterChef Australia. 1.20
Vera. 10.30 Vicar Of Dibley. 11.45 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 Fishy Business. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 21. Geelong v Port Adelaide. 6.00 The Wash Up. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: Apollo 13. (1995) 11.25 Late Programs.
Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 The Gruffalo. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.35 The Mysterious Benedict Society. 8.25 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.05 Abbott Elementary. 9.50 Speechless. 10.10 Merlin. 10.55 Late Programs. 6.00 Morning Programs. 2.05 ER. 2.50 Heartbreak High. 3.35 A Bite To Eat. 4.05 Would I Lie To You? 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Car S.O.S.
6.00 Morning Programs. 2.30 The Baron. 3.30 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Eels v Dragons. 5.30 Getaway. 6.00 Dad’s Army. 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 Keeping Up Appearances. 9.00 World Aquatics Championships. Singapore 2025. Day 8. Finals. 9.40 MOVIE: Midway. (2019) 12.20 Late Programs. 6.00 Flushed. 7.00 It’s Academic. 8.30 Get Arty. 10.00 Behave Yourself. 11.10 America’s Got Talent: Fantasy League. 1.20 Home And Away. 4.00 Dancing With The Stars. 5.30 Gold Coast Ocean Rescue. 6.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. 7.30 Law & Order: Criminal Intent. 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. 10.30 Bones. 12.30 Lie To Me. 1.30 Alias. 2.30 Late Programs.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Technology snafus tax your patience. But before you throw your computer or other bulky hardware into the trash, take a deep breath and call someone knowledgeable for help.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Don’t be too upset if your generosity goes unappreciated. These things happen, and rather than brood over it, you should move on. Meanwhile, a new friend could open up some exciting possibilities.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) A loved one helps you get through an especially difficult emotional situation. Afterward, spend the weekend immersed in the restorative powers of music and the other arts.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) You are pretty much in charge of what you want to do this week. However, it might be a good idea to keep an open mind regarding suggestions from people you know you can trust.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) Another chance to shine (something always dear to the Lion’s heart) might be resented by others. But you earned it, so enjoy it! The weekend brings news about a family member.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) A suggestion that never took off could become viable again. Dust it off, update it if necessary, and resubmit it. In your personal life, a new relationship takes an “interesting” turn.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Confronting a new challenge to your stated position could work to your advantage. You can settle all doubts once you’re able to present a solid defense that is backed up by equally solid facts.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) You enjoy doing nice things for others, but this is a good time to do something nice for yourself as well. You might want to start by planning a super-special getaway weekend.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Some changes you feel like you need to make might be reasonable and appropriate. But others might lead to new problems. Think things through carefully before you act.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Good instincts usually keep the sure-footed Goat on the right path. What others might see as stubbornness on your part reflects your good sense of what is worth supporting.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) A period of introspection could lead to some surprising conclusions and equally surprising changes involving a number of your long-held positions on several issues.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) The financially practical Pisces might want to take a sensible approach to spending as well as investing. Being prudent now pays off later. In other news, a romantic situation moves into another phase.
Eugowra hosts Parkes in junior soccer
Eugowra Junior Sports hosted a round of the Parkes and District Soccer Association junior soccer competition.
The Eugowra teams travel to Parkes each Saturday to compete in the junior competition.
Last Saturday the Eugowra juniors were able to show off their soccer skills in front of a home crowd at Ian Walsh Oval.
U6 Eugowra Kangaroos came up against Parkes Lions and U6 Eugowra Bushrangers versed Parkes Gorillas.
U8 Eugowra showed off their skills against Parkes Magpies and U10 Eugowra battled it out against Parkes United.
Eugowra Junior Sports reported that all juniors had the best day playing in their home town and all of them showed the utmost respect to the other teams.
Check out some of the photos our photographer Jenny Kingham took of U8 Eugowra playing against Parkes Magpies.
Maiden win for Downes
PARKES GOLF
By PETER BRISTOL
On Saturday we played an 18 hole Stableford event sponsored by Coates Hire.
We are happy to have the asso ciation with Coates Hire and look forward to their ongoing support.
Unfortunately, the player num bers were down due to the inclem ent weather conditions leading up to tee off and which remained threatening all day.
We had 34 brave but enthusi astic golfers teeing off knowing full well this was the last round of Handiskins competition and chas ing qualification.
Winner on the day was Chris Downes picking up his maiden 1st prize after just joining and getting his handicap.
His handicap was the perfect size as he scored a par stableford round giving him 36 points.
Chris had 7 pars in his round so will be looking to build on that form for future events.
Second in on a countback was Aaron Gaffey a point behind the winner.
Aaron shot a great 81 off the stick in the trying conditions and took the minor podium finish off the ever-present Luke Clyne with Dustin Littlewood also having a 35.
Trevor Chatman managed a birdie on the par 3 4th as he scrounged out a 34 point haul trying to increase his Handiskins lead.
The Handiskins preliminary event ended with the top 4 players
By BARRY SHINE
First of all the date for the Bogan Gate Veterans Masters has been released, Tuesday, August 12.
While it is common knowledge that some of the past players are up north chasing the sun or overseas spending excess cash, hosts at BG, Roz and Steve Edwards feel an earlier date is best suited for one reason, and that is not having to play fairways covered with the yellow daisies.
Remember last year, lost balls
Steve said all will be in place from fairway to greens presented in prestige condition while caterer Roz guarantees morning tea and lunch will be as good as you will get at any sporting tournament.
ing the BG Masters include Peter Bristol, Joe Davies, Tom Delmenico, John Dwyer, Nym Dziuba, Phil Bishop, John Fowler, Richard Hamilton, Robert J Lea, Rod Luyt, Michael Lynch, John Pearce, Garry Phipps, Gordon Pritchard, Rob Staples, Dale and Chris Stait.
Twenty-nine twin-town vets took to the Forbes course last Thursday including a new member in the Forbes ranks, Trevor Williams, who showed form in his first outing. And with coaching from Kim Herbert it won’t be long before he is in the winner’s circle.
It is hoped the trend of more new members continues from both camps.
set to play off in the final later in the year.
Trevor Chatman maintained his lead adding another couple of points to his final tally to end on 108 points.
Aaron Gaffey with his solid round jumped into the final with an improvement to his last week score, which had just him missing the final, and had a total of 106.
Mel Matthews didn’t improve on her final tally of 104 and nor did Richard Hutchinson improve his 103 but they still qualified for the final.
Unfortunately, Col Braeden didn’t play on Saturday and slipped
weekend
out of the finals.
The Nearest The Pins winners were – Bridgestone Mining 1st not won, Griffins Leading Edge by Trevor Chatman at 212cm, Parkes Ready Mixed Concrete 9th by Mitch Cambourne at 194cm, the Westlime 11th by Mark Kelly at 224cm, the Gulf Western Oil 17th by Rob Hey at 85cm.
The lucrative money hole was won by Rob Hey at 85cm.
Ball winners were Luke Clyne, Dustin Littlewood 35, Trevor Chatman 34, Nick Morrison 34.
This week is the clubs August Telescope Tyres / Hankook Masters Monthly Medal.
How much will this cost? Only $30 - $15 to play, $15 to eat. How good is that? Everyone’s a winner, more so if able to pick up one of the valued prizes on offer.
For catering purposes numbers are needed, please contact one of the following at vets golf, Barry Shine 0409 718 004 or Gordon Pritchard 0428 635 739, or by phoning Steve 0415 665 925. If not answering leave a message.
Don’t forget your GOLFLink number for handicap purposes.
Non vets are most welcome. Everyone is invited to play, including ladies.
Nominations and morning tea are from 9.15am, shot gun at 10am.
For the record those from Parkes who have had the pleasure of play-
Welcome back after holidays to Forbes’ Ken Walton who showed the break did him good winning with 39 points from the evergreen Parkes ace Gordon Pritchard scoring 35 points.
Forbes’ Steve Rodgers went home with the encouragement award while nearest the pins were won by Steve Uphill (F) 9th and Gordon Pritchard 18th. In the twin-towns shield Forbes (best six scores from 19 players) 207 to Parkes’ (10) 175. Ball sweep to 31 points - 35 Allan Rees (F), 34 Bruce Chandler (F), Les Little (F), Kim Herbert (F), 32 Garry Phipps (P), 31 Steve Uphill (F).
Parkes this week for twin-towns vets with nominations from 9.30am for a 10am shot-gun start. It will be a good opportunity to get in a bit of practice before Parkes hosts the next Lachlan Valley 18hole comp on August 21.
VETERANS GOLF
Addison Sharpe, Liam O’Neill, Anthony Rath and Lachlan Buesnell of Newcastle came back to Parkes for the
to visit Lachlan’s family.
PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
ALEX TURNER
HALLIE HUTCHINGS WITH THE BALL.
HADLEY PORTER WITH THE BALL.
Team Chew win Mid-West men’s state fours
By COL MILLER
Hi all over the weekend the Mid-West Bowls Men’s State Fours 25/26 were played at the Parkes Services Railway Club.
In Round 1 Gary McPhee, Steve Turner, Nathan Reynolds and Dave Reilly defeated the Nyngan Homer team 21 to 12.
In the Quarter Finals the Reilly team went down to a Services Railway Chew team 22 to 18.
Our second team of Guy Ellery, Michael Simpson, Mark Dwyer and Mark Fitzalan had a bye in the first round and in the Quarter Final they played the Services Railway Ramsay team and won 25 to 16.
In the Semi Final the Fitzalan team played the Chew Services Railway side but went down 25 to 22.
The Final game was between the Chew team and Bright team both from the Services Railway Club and the Chew won 26 to 9 and they now move onto Dubbo.
Well done to all the players on the weekend in the tough weather conditions.
Social bowls on Thursday we had 30 bowlers.
Rink 15 Ian Simpson, Bob Freeman and John Wright had a win over Geoff Smith, Noel Johnstone and Steve Ryan 20 to 16.
Rink 16 Lil Thompson, Mick Valentine and Peter McPhee came home to strong for Ann Smith, Ethan Lacey and Brian Townsend
23 to 13.
Rink 17 Ash Kirwan and Col Miller had a one shot win over John Ward and Aaron Thorn 19 to 18.
Rink 18 Paul Lewin and M Hacket won 17 to 14 over Geoff Freeman and Col Mudie.
Rink 19 John Carr and Geoff Leonard were too strong for Maureen Miller and Gary McPhee 29 to 16.
Rink 20 Jim Blake, John Corcoran and Jake Brown won 22 to 16 over Col Hayward, Paul Kirwan and Steve Turner.
Social Bowls were played on Saturday in miserable conditions we had 14 bowlers turn up.
Rink 3 Col Hayward, Bob Freeman and John Ward had a big win over Therese
Glasheen, John Carr and Marty Tighe 29 to 16.
John Wright had a narrow win over Rod Ford and Col over
Parkes trio to compete at regional final
RAILWAY BOWLS
By PAUL LEWIN
players for social bowls. and Graham Thomson winning 16+8.
Trotman and Luke Ramsay win ning 16+3.
Hetherington and Alan Curteis winning 15+8.
margins were 1, 2, 3, 3, 8, 8 and 12.
players for social bowls. Bowls weren’t complete due to the rain.
Sheets will go up on the board next week for nominations for the 2025/26 Club Championships.
Mid West Region
The Mid West Region Triples finals draws are out for the 23 and 24 August at West Dubbo. We have 3 teams representing our club.
A section of the Mid West Region Fours was played at our club over the weekend with three of the four finalists coming from our club.
Congratulations to all bowlers who represented our club with some amazing bowls played over the two days.
Team Chew, Geoff Leonard, Mick Furney, Craig Cusack and John Chew came out on top in the final over Team Bright, Andrew Trotman, Jim Daley, Blake Strudwick and Tony Bright to
progress to the Region Final at the end of August.
We wish them the best of luck.
The Mid West Region Pairs nominations are up on the board now too so please get your teams sorted and placed on the sheets.
We are also hosting a section of the Open Men’s Pairs.
The Town are hosting a section of the Open and Senior Lady’s Pairs along with Manildra.
Bowls NSW
We have nominations open for the following Bowls NSW events:
State Mixed Pairs (can be from different clubs).
The State Over 40s is on 2 and 3 August (this weekend) and we are hosting the qualifying
rounds for this too so please come down and watch some quality bowlers fight it out.
We have several teams representing our club. The draw is available on Bowlslink.
BPL Cup
Qualifying rounds will be run on Sundays. The next round will be held in August. BPL the fast paced and exciting way to bowl! Nominations will be available soon through Bowlslink.
This week we have social bowls on Saturday, 2 August at 1pm.
As always names in half an hour before start times, every-
one is welcome and quality new loan bowls are available at the
For those interested in having a roll of bowls, please note the
Social bowls means anyone and everyone is welcome to come have a game.
If it’s your first time this is where you start. Just come to the club on the desired day at least 45 minutes prior to the advertised start times and see one of our dedicated volunteers.
We will assist with getting you sorted and some bowls and point you in the right direction.
Social bowls is competitive without being too serious. Play ers generally use this time as
We have some experienced bowlers that are always happy to play with and help new learn ing bowlers.
We have our Thursday Even ing Barefoot Twilight Bowls running through daylight sav ings, that is a great way to start and learn the game.
Please feel free to call in to the club at anytime to have a chat.
Quickshine Punters Club
The Punters Club has been rolling along well and the re sults are put on the board as they happen.
Money can be placed in the tin on the bar at any point along the way.
In the club on Friday, 1 Au gust we have happy hour 5-7pm, meat tray raffles, badge draw ($1500), joker draw ($1100) and the bistro serving up their amaz ing meals from 6pm.
See you at the Railway! Toot Toot!
Year 3 student crowned NSW cross country champion
■ From back page demonstrating a very high level of focus and determination.
His hard work has paid off and his achievement is an inspiration to his peers and the broader school community.
Holy Family School also acknowledges the efforts of Nate Calabro and Arlo Cassidy, who joined Emrys in representing Polding at the championships.
PARKES BOWLS
Joane Barnes and Ian Simpson. the club.
Alan Curteis was one of the third placegetters in last Wednesday’s social bowls. PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
Guy Ellery was part of team Fitzlan who went down to team Chew in the Mid-West Bowls State Fours 25-26 semi finals.
Emrys Cassidy ran 2km in 7 minutes and 16 seconds, earning him gold and the prestigious title of NSW Champion.
PHOTO: Supplied
HERE are the scores and draws for Parkes Shire teams in competitions across the Central West.
All Spacemen grades and Spacecats v Orange Hawks at Orange.
First grade: Orange CYMS v Dubbo CYMS. Lithgow Workies v Forbes Magpies. Nyngan Tigers v Mudgee Dragons. Orange Hawks v Parkes Spacemen. Dubbo Macquarie Raiders v Bathurst St Pats. Bathurst Panthers v Wellington Cowboys.
First grade and league tag: Goannas v Trundle Boomers. Oberon Tigers v Peak Hill Roosters. Eugowra Golden Eagles v Molong Bulls. Condobolin Rams v Orange United Warriors. Cargo Blue Heelers v Blayney Bears. Cowra Magpies v Manildra Rhinos. Canowindra Tigers bye.
Round 14:
RUGBY UNION
First grade: Narromine Gorillas 27 def Parkes Boars 18. Second grade: 33 def Parkes Boars 0.
Women’s: Parkes Boars 94 def Yeoval Eagles 0.
Colt’s under 19s: def Forbes Platypi 13.
Round 15 draw:
Hobby turned career
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
This August will mark one year since Zac and Maddi Kelly became the new owners of the Parkes Pro Shop at the Parkes Golf Club.
Zac, originally from Parkes, moved to Mudgee when he was around 11 years old and came back to Parkes after completing high school before moving to the Gold Coast for six years.
When the opportunity arose for Zac to be head pro and run his own shop at the Parkes Golf Club, it was an opportunity he couldn’t turn down leaving the Gold Coast and returning back to Parkes.
“It’s always kind of been home back here, being back in the country,” Zac said.
Playing every sport he could growing up including golf, soccer and cricket, golf was always the priority for Zac.
“I got old enough and stopped playing soccer and cricket and just continued playing golf a bit more. I got a bit better at it and then it went from a hobby to a career.”
Not long after moving to Parkes
Zac and Maddi were married.
“It’d be good to raise a family here because my wife Maddi, she’s working in the shop a bit as well so it’d be good to have a family and go through what I did when
I grew up out here in the country.”
For the future of golf in Parkes Zac would love to see more members and an average of over 100 players during Saturday competitions.
“If we can get some more ladies and juniors into golf and competitive golf that would be good.
“If we can grow it up and just try and make every day a little bit busier each year and just grow overall that would be great,” Zac
Coming up at the Parkes Golf Club Zac was excited to share the Parkes Open will be held from 11 to 14 September in a new and ex-
“It’s the very first year that it’s going to be the four ball on the Friday and then a two round 36 hole championship over the weekend which is the first time
The Summer Super Tens Business House Competition will then begin when daylight savings clicks over during the start of Oc-
“That was pretty big last year so we will try to make it bigger and better again this year,” Zac added.
For Zac golf is all about getting to enjoy a couple of hours in the sunshine with his mates and a couple of beers.
“It’s a hard game because it’s different every day.”
First and second grade: Parkes Boars v Mudgee Wombats.
Round 11 draw: Bathurst St Pats v Parkes United at Bathurst.
Men’s: Round 7: Parkes United 8 def Orange Wanderers 1. Parkes United 8 def Lithgow Workies 1. Round 8 draw (16 August at Parkes): Parkes United v Bathurst St Pats.
Ladies fours team off to regional championships
WOMEN’S BOWLS By LEA ORR
Winter continues, numbers are down, but the hardy few enjoyed outdoor and indoor bowls on this cold day.
Ground Control don’t get a choice – the greens must be done! Thanks always to you guys!
Kay Craft, Irene Allen, Annie Smith, Irene Truber and Rhona Went played the full 18 ends of scroungers on two rinks – the score unanimously a draw. Liz Byrne and Merilyn Rodg-
ers tried out the carpet bowls inside, ever improving with practice.
Lea’s birthday pav and cake were shared and appreciated. There were no draws due to low numbers. At the weekend, several of our members played senior and open competitions at Canowindra.
The Senior Fours team of Cherie Frame, Brenda Davies, Maureen Miller and Liz Byrne defeated Grenfell in the final and are now off to Dubbo on August 30 for Regional Cham-
pionships. Congrats, girls! Nominations are open for Major Singles for one more week. Please get your name in soon.
Membership and locker fees ($10) are now due and may be paid over the bar.
August 12 – Trading Table with “Australiana” theme. Gifts to the value of $15 please.
To play social bowls on Tues day, August 5th, call the club, 6862 1446, between 9 – 9.30am, arrive by 9.45am and play at 10am. Newcomers always wel come.
Hockey selection honours continue
HOCKEY
Our hockey athletes have been selected in multiple representative teams and squads.
Two junior athletes have been named in NSW U14 teams who will compete in Brisbane from 5 to 11 October. Congratulations to Daisy Rice who has been picked in the NSW State team and Jack Dunford who has been selected in the NSW Blues team.
Richard Rice and Sally McPherson were also selected to manage state teams at the U14 Championships.
Richard will manage the U14 Boys State team and Sally will manage the U14 Girls Blues team.
In under 16s Heidi Jones, Addison Summerhayes, Kelley McFarlane and PJ McPherson have been selected as part of the Pathways and Performance Squad. Toby Collins, Ryan Dunford, Zanda Johnstone, Tom Searl and Elly Thornberry have been selected in the under 21s Pathways and Performance Squad. Those selected in the Pathways and Performance Squads will now attend trials.
From these trials a team which will represent NSW at the national championships will be picked.
Maddi and Zac Kelly from the Parkes Pro Shop. PHOTO: Jenny Kingham
JACK DUNFORD WILL REPRESENT NSW IN THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS.
MacGregor to run out again Saturday
■ From the back page
Scoring two tries on her debut against reigning premiers has instilled a lot of confidence in the young footy star and says if she has the opportunity to play again she will have trust within herself coming up against other teams in the premiership.
Elizabeth not only had support back home in Parkes but also had support in the stadium which she said means the world to her.
“Having all those people come to the game, even teachers from school, old footy coaches and of course family and close friends, it was just unreal.
“When I looked over after running on the field I just felt really blessed and grateful.”
Looking ahead Elizabeth will aim to keep chipping away at training and working really hard.
“I still have a lot to work on obviously being so young so hopefully I can fix up a few little things and aim to make that team list every week from now on,” Elizabeth added. The Bulldogs couldn’t quite manage a comeback to the Roosters losing 42-22 but they are looking ahead to this weekend.
Elizabeth has again been named in this week’s team list for the Bulldog’s clash against the Gold Coast Titans at McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle.
The game kicks off what will be the first ever NRLW Magic Round on Saturday, 2 August at 12.15pm.
Freezing conditions keep members away
Last Sunday saw only four shooters attend the Deep Lead Shooting Complex and shoot at round targets at both the 25 and 50 metres for a total of 500 points. Conditions were bad at best with freezing drizzle and gusty winds. The smart ones decided to give a day at the
TARGET RIFLES: 25M, 50M, TOTAL absch 248, 244, 492. John Davis 250, 239, 489. eg Neems 243, 239, 489.
John Maddison 250, 240, 490. ours truly has for the last six months been assembling a new target rifle and today after the shoot tried it out, after dialing the scope in it shot a five cent group in very ordinary conditions. The most crucial part in the process is bedding the action and this was carried out by David Tanks. Many thanks Dave. Next shoot is Sunday, 3 August com-
FootyNRL TIPPING
Page 18
Two on debut
RUGBY LEAGUE
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
She has done it. Elizabeth MacGregor has made her debut in the NRLW premiership with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, and what a debut it was.
Scoring two tries in her maiden outing against reigning premiers Sydney Roosters, Elizabeth’s hard work has paid off.
Elizabeth was pulled aside in training by her coach Brayden Wiliame who told her he was going to giver her a shot.
“He pulled me aside and told me he was really proud of all my efforts at training as well as my games in reserve grade,” Elizabeth said.
“I was so nervous because we were versing the Roosters, the reigning premiers.
“They have been in the competition for a long time so they’re strong and they have such a good connection so I was quite worried and nervous but having a coach who backs me so much gave me the confidence
that I need to have going into that game.”
Before Elizabeth took to the field on Saturday, 26 July she was hoping to go out and be there for her teammates and put her best foot forward and for the whole 70 minutes that is what she did.
Our first good glimpse of the 18-year-old from Parkes was when she chased down opponent Corban Baxter on the wing in the 31st minute.
While her efforts didn’t stop another Rooster’s try from getting through it did lead the 9Network commentators to say
“There’s an athletic pedigree there,” and begin talking about the girl from Parkes and other Parkes and Central West connections to the NRL.
Bulldogs were down 32-0 to Roosters at the end of the first half.
In the 46th minute Elizabeth answered every Bulldogs fan’s prayers after being on the receiving end of a well-placed two player cut-out pass from Ashleigh Quinlan to score the Bulldog’s first try.
“I was honestly shocked, I wasn’t expect ing it at all but Ashleigh’s pass was just unre al and it was so surreal to look up and have all the girls supporting me and celebrating, and then to look over and have all my fam ily and close friends cheering for me was so cool.”
Tayla Preston added the two points on Elizabeth’s try to make it 32-6 with 22 min utes remaining.
The Bulldogs knew they didn’t have time to waste if they wanted to make a comeback and that was obvious when Elizabeth scored her second try four minutes later.
“I was even more shocked,” Elizabeth said.
“Tayla threw the pass to Ashleigh and it looked like it was intercepted so I kind of stopped my tracks to turn around and start chasing but Ashleigh ended up having the ball and then cut it back out to me.
“I think the family was even more hyped after that one,” Elizabeth added.
PARKES HARNESS RACING CLUB
Parkes Harness Racing Club will race again this coming Friday night August 1st 2025. We have 8 races scheduled with the first race to start at 6.25pm gates will open to the public at 5.30pm with free entry for all patrons.
Championships.
Canteen & TAB facilities will be available on course. Sponsors for the meeting
CROSS COUNTRY
Holy Family School is celebrating a
ELIZABETH MACGREGOR SCORES FOR THE BULLDOGS AGIANST SYDNEY ROOSTERS. PHOTO: CANTERBURY-BANKSTOWNBULLDOGS
